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 […]
COMET clinical trial.
The COMET (Comparative Effectiveness of Monitoring with Care vs Standard Care in Women with Early-Stage Breast Cancer) clinical trial is evaluating the safety and effectiveness of active monitoring compared with standard care for patients with early-stage breast cancer (hormone receptor 1-2 positive). The study aims to look at differences in health outcomes, side effects and […]
Is the incidence of breast cancer increasing in women under 40?
In recent years, there has been an increase in the incidence of breast cancer among women under 40. Although this type of cancer is generally diagnosed in older women, several studies have indicated that diagnoses in younger women have been increasing. There are several factors that could be contributing to this situation: 1. Lifestyle: Changes […]