Search Results (505)

Growing interest in the future applications of nanotechnology in medicine has led to groundbreaking developments in nanosensors. Nanosensors are excellent platforms that provide reliable solutions for continuous monitoring and real-time detection of clinical targets. Nanosensors have attracted great attention due to their remarkable sensitivity, portability, selectivity, and automated data acquisition. The exceptional nanoscale properties of nanomaterials used in the nanosensors boost their sensing potential even at minimal concentrations of analytes present in a clinical sample. Along with applications in diverse sectors, the beneficial aspects of nanosensors have been exploited in healthcare systems to utilize their applications in diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases. Hence, in this review, we have presented an overview of the disease-prognostic applications of nanosensors in chronic diseases through a detailed literature analysis. We focused on the advances in various nanosensors in the field of major diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, and neurodegenerative diseases along with other prevalent diseases. This review demonstrates various categories of nanosensors with different nanoparticle compositions and detection methods suitable for specific diagnostic applications in clinical settings. The chemical properties of different nanoparticles provide unique characteristics to each nanosensors for their specific applications. This will aid the detection of potential biomarkers or pathological conditions that correlate with the early detection of various diseases. The potential challenges and possible recommendations of the applications of nanosensors for disease diagnosis are also discussed. The consolidated information present in the review will help to better understand the disease-prognostic potentials of nanosensors, which can be utilized to explore new avenues in improved therapeutic interventions and treatment modalities. Full article

Background/Objectives. This manuscript presents an overview of advances in oncological radiotherapy as an effective treatment method for cancerous tumors, focusing on mechanisms of action within metabolite–antimetabolite systems. The urgency of this topic is underscored by the fact that cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide: as of 2022, approximately 20 million new cases were diagnosed globally, accounting for about 0.25% of the total population. Given prognostic models predicting a steady increase in cancer incidence to 35 million cases by 2050, there is an urgent need for the latest developments in physics, chemistry, molecular biology, pharmacy, and strict adherence to oncological vigilance. The purpose of this work is to demonstrate the relationship between the nature and mechanisms of past diagnostic and therapeutic oncology approaches, their current improvements, and future prospects. Particular emphasis is placed on isotope technologies in the production of therapeutic nuclides, focusing on the mechanisms of formation of simple and complex theranostic compounds and their classification according to target specificity. Methods. The methodology involved searching, selecting, and analyzing information from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, as well as from available official online sources over the past 20 years. The search was structured around the structure–mechanism–effect relationship of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The manuscript, including graphic materials, was prepared using a narrative synthesis method. Results. The results present a sequential analysis of materials related to isotope technology, particularly nucleus stability and instability. An explanation of theranostic principles enabled a detailed description of the action mechanisms of radiopharmaceuticals on various receptors within the metabolite–antimetabolite system using specific drug models. Attention is also given to radioactive nanotheranostics, exemplified by the mechanisms of action of radioactive nanoparticles such as Tc-99m, AuNPs, wwAgNPs, FeNPs, and others. Conclusions. Radiotheranostics, which combines the diagnostic properties of unstable nuclei with therapeutic effects, serves as an effective adjunctive and/or independent method for treating cancer patients. Despite the emergence of resistance to both chemotherapy and radiotherapy, existing nuclide resources provide protection against subsequent tumor metastasis. However, given the unfavorable cancer incidence prognosis over the next 25 years, the development of “preventive” drugs is recommended. Progress in this area will be facilitated by modern medical knowledge and a deeper understanding of ligand–receptor interactions to trigger apoptosis in rapidly proliferating cells. Full article

Background: Breast cancer remains a major public health challenge in Latin America, where access to personalized risk assessment tools is still limited. This study aimed to evaluate the implementation of a polygenic risk score (PRS)-based stratification model combined with remote genomic counseling in Colombian women with sporadic breast cancer and healthy women. Methods: In 2023, an embedded mixed-methods observational study was conducted in Medellín involving 1997 women aged 40–75 years who underwent clinical PRS testing. The intervention integrated PRS-based risk categorization with individualized risk factor assessment and lifestyle recommendations delivered through a remote counseling platform. Results: PRS analysis classified 9.7% of women as high risk and 46% as low risk. Healthier lifestyle patterns were significantly associated with lower PRS categories (p = 0.034). Physical activity showed a protective effect (OR = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.5–0.8), while prior smoking, elevated BMI, and sedentary behavior were associated with higher risk. The counseling model achieved high delivery (93%) and satisfaction (85%) rates. Qualitative insights revealed improved understanding of genomic risk and greater engagement in preventive behaviors. Only one new case of breast cancer was detected among intermediate-risk participants, with a diagnostic lead time of 12 months. Conclusions: These findings support the feasibility, acceptability, and potential impact of integrating PRS and genomic counseling in cancer prevention strategies in middle-income settings. Full article

Background and objectives: Trismus is a frequent and debilitating complication in people with head and neck cancer (HNC) which leads to significant functional limitations and reduced quality of life. Rehabilitation interventions are commonly recommended to manage or prevent trismus. However, in many randomized controlled trials (RCTs), the theoretical justification for these interventions is poorly articulated, and the underlying biological or physiological mechanisms are not described in detail, limiting our understanding of why certain treatments may (or may not) work. This review aimed to identify and analyze how RCTs report the rationale for rehabilitation interventions and the explanations used to manage this population. Materials and Methods: A scoping review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Five databases (PubMed, PEDro, Web of Science, Scopus, and EMBASE) were searched up to May 2025 for RCTs evaluating rehabilitation interventions for the management or prevention of treatment-induced trismus in patients with HNC. Data were extracted and synthesized narratively, focusing on the type of intervention, the rationale for its use, and the proposed mechanisms of action. Results: Of 2215 records identified, 24 RCTs met the inclusion criteria. Thirteen studies focused on preventive interventions—primarily exercise therapy—while the remainder addressed established trismus using exercise, manual therapy, electrotherapy, or combined treatment modalities. The rationales provided for intervention selection were heterogeneous and often lacked depth, with most studies justifying interventions based on their potential to improve mouth opening or reduce fibrosis but rarely grounding these claims in detailed pathophysiological models. Only half of the studies provided any mechanistic explanation for the intervention’s effects, and these were typically generic or speculative. Conclusions: RCTs investigating rehabilitation interventions for treatment-induced trismus in patients with HNC frequently lack comprehensive rationales and mechanistic explanations for their interventions. This gap limits the ability to refine and optimize treatment approaches, as the underlying processes driving clinical improvements remain poorly understood. Future research should be guided by theoretical models and include objective outcomes to better elucidate the mechanisms of action of interventions to inform clinical practice. Full article

Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent malignancy in women worldwide. Despite most cases being diagnosed in the early stages, patients typically require a multimodal treatment approach. This typically involves a combination of surgery, radiotherapy, systemic treatments (including chemotherapy or immunotherapy), targeted therapy, and endocrine therapy, depending on the disease subtype and the risk of recurrence. Moreover, patients with BC and germline mutations in the breast cancer genes 1 or 2 (BRCA1/BRCA2), (gBRCAm), who are typically young women, often require more aggressive therapeutic interventions. These mutations present unique characteristics that necessitate a distinct treatment approach, potentially influencing the side effect profiles of patients with BC. Regardless of the clear benefit observed with these treatments in terms of reduced recurrence and mortality rates, long-term, treatment-related adverse events occur that negatively affect the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of BC survivors. Thus, long-term adverse events need to be factored into the treatment decision algorithm of patients with early BC (eBC). Physical, functional, emotional, and psychosocial adverse events can occur and represent a significant concern and a challenge for clinicians, patients, and their families. This review article provides an overview of the various long-term adverse events that patients with eBC may experience, including their associated risk factors, as well as management and prevention strategies. We also explore the evidence of the long-term impact of treatment on the HRQoL of patients with gBRCAm. By providing a comprehensive overview of current evidence and recommendations regarding patients’ HRQoL, we aim to equip clinicians with scientific and clinical knowledge and provide guidance to optimize care and improve long-term outcomes. Full article

Cervical cancer remains a significant global public health challenge, with human papillomavirus (HPV) as its primary cause. In response, the World Health Organization (WHO) launched a global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030 and, in its 2022 position paper, recommended a single-dose vaccination schedule. The objective of this review is to critically examine the current HPV vaccination landscape in China, including vaccination policies, immunization schedules, supply–demand dynamics, and the feasibility of transitioning to a single-dose regimen. By synthesizing recent developments in HPV virology, epidemiology, vaccine types, and immunization strategies, we identify both opportunities and barriers unique to the Chinese context. Results indicate that China primarily adheres to a three-dose vaccination schedule, with an optional two-dose schedule for girls aged 9–14, leaving a notable gap compared to the most recent WHO recommendation. The high prevalence of HPV types 52 and 58 contributes to a distinct regional infection pattern, underscoring the specific need for nine-valent vaccines tailored to China’s epidemiological profile. Despite the growing demand, vaccine supply remains inadequate, with an estimated annual shortfall of more than 15 million doses. This issue is further complicated by strong public preference for the nine-valent vaccine and the relatively high cost of vaccination. Emerging evidence supports the comparable efficacy and durable protection of a single-dose schedule, which could substantially reduce financial and logistical burdens while expanding coverage. This review advocates for the adoption of a simplified single-dose regimen, supported by catch-up strategies for older cohorts and the integration of HPV vaccination into China’s National Immunization Program (NIP). Sustained investment in domestic vaccine development and centralized procurement of imported vaccines may also possibly alleviate supply shortage. These coordinated efforts are critical for strengthening HPV-related disease prevention and accelerating China’s progress toward the WHO’s cervical cancer elimination targets. Full article

Background/Objectives: Cigarette smoking has been causally linked to 90% of all cases of lung cancer, contributing to its high mortality rate. Lung cancer screening centers offer low-dose computed tomography, the only recommended diagnostic screening tool for lung cancer detection. A previous Texas-based study found that centers with lung cancer screening programs failed to consistently provide evidence-based tobacco cessation and relapse prevention interventions recommended by clinical practice guidelines to their patients, who are primarily people who currently or previously smoked. This represents a missed opportunity to assist patients by providing evidence-based tobacco use care during a particularly relevant clinical encounter. Methods: To improve cigarette smoking cessation care delivery and relapse prevention in this setting, this protocol paper seeks to provide a framework for adapting Taking Texas Tobacco Free, a comprehensive, evidence-based tobacco-free workplace program, to lung cancer screening centers. The adapted program, Project SWITCH, will be developed through a formative evaluation process with center stakeholders to identify proactive adaptations to programming based on center-specific contexts. Project SWITCH is expected to be implemented in at least nine lung cancer screening centers in Texas and will be disseminated more broadly to centers statewide. Results: Quantitative and qualitative data will be collected from multiple stakeholders throughout the intervention using a convergent parallel mixed methods design to make additional program adaptations and comprehensively evaluate the achievement of the project’s implementation and dissemination goals. Conclusions: Results from this project’s implementation and dissemination phases are expected to reduce lung cancer morbidity and mortality in Texas by providing an evidence-based, sustainable framework for tobacco-free workplace programs in this specific setting that improves cancer prevention and control practices. Full article

Background: The national guidelines, informed by evidence from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), define the criteria for genetic testing of BRCA1/2 and other genes associated with Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC) and Lynch Syndrome (LS). When a germline pathogenic variant (PV) is identified in an index case, clinical recommendations advise informing at-risk relatives about the availability of predictive genetic testing, as early identification of carriers allows for timely implementation of preventive measures. Methods: This retrospective observational study examined data collected between 2017 and 2024 at the Medical Genetics Unit of the “Renato Dulbecco” University Hospital in Catanzaro, Italy. The analysis focused on trends in the identification of individuals carrying PVs in cancer predisposition genes (CPGs) and the subsequent uptake of cascade genetic testing (CGT) among their family members. Results: Over the study period, from 116 probands were performed 257 CGTs on 251 relatives. A notable reduction of approximately ten years in median age was observed, 39% were found to carry familial mutation and were referred to personalized cancer prevention programs. Among these, 62% accessed Oncological Genetic Counselling (CGO) within one year of the proband’s diagnosis, suggesting effective communication and outreach. Conclusions: The findings highlight the critical role of effective CGO and intrafamilial communication in hereditary cancer prevention. The identification of PVs, followed by timely CGTs and implementation of preventive strategies, significantly contributes to early cancer risk management. Periodic monitoring of CGT uptake and outcome trends, as demonstrated in this study, is essential to refine and optimize genetic services and public health strategies. Full article

Exercise interventions are increasingly recognized as effective non-pharmacological strategies to improve clinical outcomes in patients with breast cancer. This review provides a comprehensive framework linking physical activity with breast cancer risk reduction, disease progression, and survivorship. We first outline the robust epidemiological evidence demonstrating that regular exercise significantly reduces breast cancer incidence, recurrence, and disease-specific mortality. The review then delves into the molecular mechanisms by which exercise exerts its protective effects, including modulation of sex hormones, metabolic hormones, systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, circulating microRNAs, and breast cancer-related DNA methylation. Furthermore, we summarize findings from clinical trials evaluating the effects of exercise on cardiorespiratory fitness, functional capacity, and quality of life in breast cancer patients. Emerging research on the synergistic potential of exercise with conventional cancer treatments and bioactive dietary components, particularly polyphenols such as saffron and curcumin, is also discussed. Finally, we present evidence-based exercise recommendations tailored to breast cancer patients, emphasizing the importance of individualized prescriptions to optimize safety and therapeutic benefit. Collectively, this review highlights the multifaceted role of exercise in breast cancer prevention, treatment, and survivorship. Full article

(1) Background and Aims: Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) face a significantly increased risk of malignancies, including a 10-fold higher risk for colorectal cancer (CRC) and a lifetime risk for cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) exceeding 20%. The mechanisms underlying this elevated risk remain elusive. This review consolidates recent findings on cancer risk in PSC-IBD patients, focusing on molecular pathways, diagnostic innovations, and prevention strategies. (2) Methods: A comprehensive PubMed search was performed to identify studies published through to March 2025 on oncogenic processes, molecular mechanisms, and advancements in diagnostic and preventive strategies for CRC and CCA in PSC-IBD patients. (3) Results: Surveillance guidelines recommend an annual colonoscopy for CRC and imaging combined with CA 19-9 monitoring for CCA. Recent studies highlight the role of molecular alterations, including epigenetic modifications, in tumorigenesis. Advances in molecular diagnostics, imaging, and endoscopic technologies are improving the accuracy and timeliness of cancer detection. (4) Conclusions: PSC-IBD patients remain at high risk for CRC and CCA, emphasizing the need for vigilant surveillance and advanced prevention strategies. Advances in early detection and precision diagnostics offer new opportunities to reduce the cancer burden in this high-risk population. Full article

Background and Aim: Neuropathic pain leads to a significant deterioration in health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Treating neuromusculoskeletal pain is especially important to prevent and improve physical frailty and the locomotive syndrome. Varied pharmacotherapies could be applicable for neuropathic pain patients, but evidence has been limited for a wide range of neuropathic pain conditions with different etiologies. The aim of this review was to highlight mirogabalin, a novel calcium channel α2δ ligand which was first approved in Japan, and which is effective for various types of neuropathic pain diseases. Methods: We conducted a narrative review of the recent evidence that mirogabalin has significant analgesic potency for varied types of neuropathic pain conditions. Futher, this review highlighted specific advantages over other calcium channel ligands. Results: Analgesic potency of mirogabalin could cover peripheral neuropathic pain conditions including post-herpetic neuralgia, diabetic peripheral neuropathy, cauda equina syndrome caused by lumbar spinal stenosis, radiculopathy caused by cervical spondylosis, and also central neuropathic pain conditions like spinal cord injury. Mirogabalin consistently demonstrated daytime sleepiness and dizziness as adverse effects, but most of these were mild. Conclusions: Mirogabalin is recommended as the first-line drug against most molecular mechanisms that cause neuropathic pain regardless of whether they have a peripheral or central origin. Mirogabalin demonstrates relatively less daytime sleepiness, making it age-friendly in the current global situation where population aging is accelerated. Considering the epidemic of ‘opiophobia’ in Japan and other countries, pharmacotherapy using mirogabalin could treat neuropathic pain associated with cancer and its treatment (e.g., chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy), as well as non-cancer etiologies worldwide. Full article

Cervical cancer remains one of the main causes of female mortality, especially in middle- and low-income countries, despite efforts towards the implementation of global vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV). The aim of this study was to review and compare the most recently published international guidelines providing recommendations on cervical cancer screening strategies among average and high-risk women. Thus, a comparative review of guidelines by the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), the American Cancer Society (ACS), the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), the World Health Organization (WHO), the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care (CTFPHC), the Cancer Council Australia (CCA), and the European Guidelines (EG) was conducted. There is an overall agreement regarding the suggestions made for women younger than 21 and those older than 65, with all guidelines stating against routine screening, with the exceptions of CTFPHC and CCA that expand the age group to up to 70 and 75 years, respectively. Continuation of screening in older women is also suggested in those with a history of a precancerous lesion and those with inadequate screening. Most guidelines recommend routine screening at 30–65 years, while the WHO advises that screening should be prioritized at 30–49 years. HPV DNA testing is the method of choice recommended by most guidelines, followed by cytology as an alternative, except for CTFPHC, which refers to cytology only, with self-sampling being an acceptable method by most medical societies. Agreements exist regarding recommendations for specific groups, such as women with a history of total hysterectomy for benign reasons, women with a complete vaccination against HPV, individuals from the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer communities and women with multiple sexual partners or early initiation of sexual activity. On the other hand, the age group of 21–29 is addressed differently by the reviewed guidelines, while differentiations also occur in the screening strategies in cases of abnormal screening results, in women with immunodeficiency, those with in utero exposure to diethylstilbestrole and pregnant women. The development of consistent practice protocols for the most appropriate cervical cancer screening programs seems to be of major importance to reduce mortality rates and safely guide everyday clinical practice. Full article

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is among the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide, with increasing attention being paid to modifiable dietary factors in its prevention. Hazelnut (Corylus avellana L.) represent a nutrient-dense food rich in unsaturated fats, polyphenols, fiber, and phytosterols, with potential anticarcinogenic properties. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the role of hazelnut consumption in the prevention and modulation of CRC risk, with specific focus on experimental, mechanistic, and preclinical evidence. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library for articles published from 2015 onward. Eligible studies included original in vitro and in vivo models, as well as observational studies, evaluating hazelnut or hazelnut-derived products in relation to CRC-related biological, metabolic, or clinical outcomes. Data extraction focused on bioactive composition, experimental models, molecular pathways, and fecal/metabolic markers of carcinogenesis. Results: A total of 11 studies were included after screening 24 records: 8 in vitro investigations, 2 in vivo animal experiments, and 1 epidemiological study. In vitro studies showed that hazelnut derivatives—including fermented hazelnuts and oil-based extracts—exert antiproliferative effects via BAX/BCL-2 modulation, increased caspase-3 activity, and oxidative stress reduction. In vivo studies confirmed improved lipid metabolism, modulation of bile acid composition (notably reduced lithocholic/deoxycholic acid ratio), and enhanced antioxidant defenses. FIBEROX^®, a hazelnut skin extract enriched in dietary fiber, demonstrated promising effects on gut microbiota and bile acid detoxification. Conclusions: Hazelnut and their bioactive compounds may aid CRC prevention through multiple molecular and metabolic pathways. Further human studies are needed to confirm these effects and support dietary recommendations. Full article

Obesity and its related comorbidities continue to be a primary public health concern, especially in the United States (US). Such comorbidities include the top two causes of death in the US: cardiovascular disease and cancer. Obesity is also associated with several other chronic conditions that affect millions of adults and children, including diabetes, kidney, and liver disease. Weight loss has long been considered the front-line treatment and prevention strategy for these conditions. Lifestyle approaches, including dietary modification and increasing physical activity, are typically recommended for individuals with obesity, although rates of achieving and maintaining clinically meaningful weight loss remain low. Understanding the root causes of minimal weight loss and weight regain has been a prime focus among many researchers over the past several decades. The present review addresses several advantages of prioritizing exercise as an obesity and chronic disease treatment. We discuss current challenges when exercise is the primary treatment strategy, including physiological parameters that may influence the efficacy of exercise in addition to behavioral and environmental factors that play a role in exercise adherence and adoption. We also explore strategies and principles that, although not commonly utilized in an obesity/chronic disease treatment setting, may be applied and adapted to fit this model. Full article

Background/Objectives: Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most common malignancy among men worldwide and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. In 2022, over 1.4 million new cases were reported globally, with a prevalence exceeding 5 million. Despite its widespread occurrence, the incidence and mortality of PCa show substantial geographic variation, influenced by factors such as genetic predisposition, healthcare access, lifestyle, and the adoption of screening programs. Regions with high PCa incidence, such as Northern America and Oceania, often have lower mortality rates due to early detection and advanced healthcare infrastructure. Conversely, areas with limited access to medical resources, such as parts of Africa and Latin America, experience higher mortality rates. Methods: This review explores non-modifiable risk factors such as age, family history, and race, emphasizing their role in PCa development and progression. Results: Modifiable factors, including diet, physical activity, alcohol consumption, and smoking, are also addressed, with evidence suggesting their potential in mitigating risk. Emerging data on medications such as 5-alpha reductase inhibitors and statins, as well as dietary supplements such as vitamins D, indicate their potential for chemoprevention, though further research is needed to solidify these findings. Healthcare disparities, especially in low- and middle-income regions, highlight the need for equitable access to diagnostic tools and treatment options. The review underscores the significance of tailored screening approaches, particularly in high-risk populations, to optimize outcomes while minimizing overdiagnosis and overtreatment. Conclusions: The review concludes with recommendations for future research, including the need for standardized screening protocols and the exploration of novel biomarkers for early detection. By synthesizing epidemiological data and current evidence, this review aims to enhance understanding of PCa risk factors, geographic disparities, and preventive strategies, ultimately contributing to improved global PCa management and outcomes. Full article