Better outcomes data lead to better outcomes
We need to greatly improve our ability to monitor the impact of treatments on outcomes. ... [ more ]
Number 65
Walking the line between quick access and evidence
How do you decide which new cancer drugs to approve, when statistical certainty takes too long to wait for and essential evidence on quality of life is hard to measure? The head of the cancer section at the European Medicines...... [ more ]
Side effects of targeted treatments: clinicians’ perceptions, patients’ realities
The side effects of targeted drugs are poorly documented, and their impact on patients frequently seriously underestimated and undertreated. Efforts to address these issues could improve survival as well as quality of life.... [ more ]
Generic cancer drugs that we can trust
Generics markets are gearing up for the expiry of patents on some of the first targeted cancer drugs. Its good news for greater access, but patients want reassurance that switching to generics wont put them at risk. ... [ more ]
More toxic, better targeted: are we one step close to that magic bullet?
Could the new generation of antibodydrug conjugates herald a move away from conventional untargeted chemotherapy? Much will depend on how far and in whom their added benefit can justify the high cost of these technologically... [ more ]
Knocking at the door of the global agenda setters
The World Oncology Forum is challenging global policy makers to face the reality that current approaches to controlling cancer are not fit for purpose. An invitation to Davos shows they may be listening, but do they yet understand... [ more ]
Intratumoural drug metabolism and the disposition of anticancer agents: implications for clinical treatment
Pharmacokinetics within tumour cells play an important role in the development of resistance. A better understanding of the mechanisms involved is important for devising treatment strategies to extend tumour response.... [ more ]
Nurturing empathy: an oncologist looks at medicine and himself
How do we allow such behaviour among colleagues? asks the author, after experiencing what its like to feel vulnerable and in pain when your doctor doesnt seem to care.... [ more ]
Gazing at the crystal ball of European radiotherapy
Although radiotherapy is a key component of cancer treatment, provision of this modality is not immune to limits placed on health-care expenditure. Recent studies suggest European radiation oncology resources will generally...... [ more ]
