Pathophysiology of Obesity as a Risk Factor for Rectal Cancer
Obesity is a medical condition characterized by an excess of body fat and is recognized as a significant risk factor for various diseases, including cancer. In particular, obesity has been linked to an increased incidence of several types of cancer, including rectal cancer. This association results from a series of complex pathophysiological mechanisms involving hormonal, […]
Common Adverse Events in Neoadjuvant Treatment for Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer and Therapies to Alleviate Symptoms
The neoadjuvant treatment for locally advanced rectal cancer typically involves a combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, aimed at reducing the tumor before possible surgical intervention. While these treatments are crucial for improving survival rates and organ preservation, they can also lead to various adverse events that need to be properly managed to improve the patient’s quality of life. One of the most […]
Epidemiology of Anal Cancer in Costa Rica
Anal cancer is a relatively rare type of cancer, but its incidence has shown a gradual increase in recent decades. In Costa Rica, according to the most recent data from the National Cancer Registry, this cancer accounts for a small percentage of all diagnosed malignancies, with higher rates observed in individuals over 50 years of […]
Anatomy of the Rectum, Risk Factors, and Rectal Cancer Epidemiology in Costa Rica
The rectum is the final portion of the large intestine and plays a key role in temporarily storing stool before defecation. Anatomically, it extends from the rectosigmoid junction—located around the level of the third sacral vertebra (S3)—to the anal canal, ending at the anorectal ring. Its anatomical boundaries include the mesorectal fascia and nearby pelvic […]
Anatomy of the Anus, Risk Factors, and Anal Cancer Epidemiology in Costa Rica
The anus is the terminal portion of the digestive tract and plays a vital role in waste elimination and continence. Anatomically, it extends from the anorectal junction—located at the level of the puborectalis muscle—to the external anal margin. Its boundaries are well defined: the upper limit corresponds to the dentate line, marking the transition from […]
ULTIMO clinical trial in breast cancer.
The ULTIMO phase three clinical trial is focused on evaluating the efficacy and safety of two “boost” strategies (additional dose of radiotherapy) administered after breast volume radiotherapy in patients operated with curative intent for breast cancer. This trial seeks to determine which of the two strategies provides better results in terms of local cancer control […]
What are molecular profiles in breast cancer and how are they used?
Molecular profiles in breast cancer are analyses that help understand the genetic and biological characteristics of tumors. By examining the expression of certain genes in cancer cells, these profiles allow cancer to be classified into different subtypes, which is key to appropriate treatment. What are molecular profiles used for? 1. Cancer classification: They help classify […]
Artificial Intelligence in Mammograms: A Breakthrough for Early Breast Cancer Detection
A New Ally in the Fight Against Breast Cancer Early detection of breast cancer can save lives, and artificial intelligence (AI) is proving to be a powerful tool in making that happen. A recent study in Sweden explored how AI can improve the accuracy of mammograms, helping radiologists detect more cases of cancer without increasing […]
Phase III EUROPA Clinical Trial: Impact on Radiation Oncology in Costa Rica.
The phase III EUROPA clinical trial is an international study that seeks to offer new treatment options for women over 70 years of age with breast cancer. Its objective is to compare the effectiveness of external radiotherapy with endocrine therapy as single treatments, with the hope of finding the best alternative for this population. This […]