A surgical knife can detect cancer tissue in seconds, say experts. The breakthrough could save the lives of thousands of women. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas:  A knife which can detect cancer in seconds

Scientists at&nbsp;Imperial College London, UK have proved that a modern surgical knife dubbed iKnife can “smell tumours”, effectively detecting womb cancer within seconds. The breakthrough could enable thousands of women to get an earlier cancer diagnosis.

“The iKnife reliably diagnosed endometrial cancer in seconds, with a diagnostic accuracy of 89%, minimising the current delays for women whilst awaiting a histopathological diagnosis,” said the researchers in the finding published in the journal Cancers.

Notably, the iKnife is already being used to treat breast and brain cancers, reported the Guardian, and now it can also accurately detect the presence of endometrial cancer.&nbsp;

How does iKnife work?

The first study to test the invention was conducted nearly a decade ago, by collecting&nbsp;tissue samples from 91 patients with 100 per cent accuracy.

Notably, the iKnife&nbsp;uses "electrosurgery", a method invented in the 1920s and commonly used today. "Electrosurgical knives use an electrical current to rapidly heat tissue, cutting through it while minimising blood loss. In doing so, they vapourise the tissue, creating smoke that is normally sucked away by extraction systems," the Imperial College had said in a statement at the time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/in-a-first-scientists-use-artificial-dna-to-kill-cancer-cells-heres-what-you-need-to-know-547276">Explained: In a first, scientists use artificial DNA to kill cancer cells: Here’s what you need to know</a> 
 
iKnife analyses the smoke emitted from the biopsy tissue when it is vapourised after being removed from the womb.

It does so by using electrical currents to differentiate between cancerous and healthy tissue.

Invented by&nbsp;Dr Zoltan Takats, of the Imperial College,&nbsp;who was also a part of the study published last November, believed that&nbsp;this smoke would be a rich source of biological information.&nbsp;

According to the&nbsp;recent study,&nbsp;iKnife was used on 150 women with suspected womb cancer. Researchers, in order to determine the effectiveness, compared the results to the current methods of diagnosis which typically take at least two weeks to show the results.&nbsp;

What are its implications?

"In cancer surgery, you want to take out as little healthy tissue as possible, but you have to ensure that you remove all of the cancer. There is a real need for technology that can help the surgeon determine which tissue to cut out and which to leave in," said&nbsp;Lord Darzi,&nbsp;who now holds the&nbsp;Paul Hamlyn Chair of Surgery at the Imperial College&nbsp;and&nbsp;co-authored the 2013 study, in a statement. 
 
ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-how-music-can-help-cancer-patients-547161">WION Fineprint: How music can help cancer patients</a> 
 
He added, "This study shows that the iKnife has the potential to do this, and the impact on cancer surgery could be enormous.”

Meanwhile, speaking with the Guardian, in the context of the recent study,&nbsp;Athena Lamnisos, the chief executive of the UK-based Eve Appeal cancer charity which also funded the research, spoke about how stressful it is to get the test, particularly for cancer.

“When you hear that the ‘c’-word is even a possibility, the days can’t pass quickly enough until a clinician gives you the all clear,” said Lamnisos. &nbsp;

She added, “Womb cancer has one ‘red flag’ symptom of postmenopausal bleeding that should always get checked out on a two-week referral from your GP. To wait a further two weeks for the results can be really hard for patients.”&nbsp;

Lamnisos also spoke about the different reasons for abnormal vaginal bleeding with womb cancer being just one of them, therefore, “the ability to provide a diagnostic test that rules cancer in or out immediately, and with accuracy, could make such a positive difference.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-develop-microrobots-that-surround-a-cancer-cell-and-kill-it-498833">Scientists develop microrobots that surround a cancer cell and kill it</a> 
 
Sadaf Ghaem-Maghami, professor and the lead researcher of the team that created iKnife, echoed a similar sentiment of the benefits of early detection, diagnosis and treatment as well as avoiding weeks of anxiety.&nbsp; 
 
“With its high diagnostic accuracy of 89% and positive predictive value of 94%, one could immediately reassure the person of the very low likelihood of having cancer if the iKnife result is negative and expedite further tests and scans and treatment for people whose biopsies indicate presence of cancer,” said the lead researcher of the study, as per the Guardian.&nbsp;

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Scientists at Imperial College London, UK have proved that a modern surgical knife dubbed iKnife can “smell tumours”, effectively detecting womb cancer within seconds.

Scientists at Imperial College London, UK have proved that a modern surgical knife dubbed iKnife can “smell tumours”, effectively detecting womb cancer within seconds. The breakthrough could enable thousands of women to get an earlier cancer diagnosis. “The iKnife reliably diagnosed endometrial cancer in seconds, with a diagnostic accuracy of 89%, minimising the current delays for women whilst awaiting a histopathological diagnosis,” said the researchers in the finding published in the journal Cancers. Notably, the iKnife is already being used to treat breast and brain cancers, reported the Guardian, and now it can also accurately detect the presence of endometrial cancer. How does iKnife work? The first study to test the invention was conducted nearly a decade ago, by collecting tissue samples from 91 patients with 100 per cent accuracy. Notably, the iKnife uses "electrosurgery", a method invented in the 1920s and commonly used today. "Electrosurgical knives use an electrical current to rapidly heat tissue, cutting through it while minimising blood loss. In doing so, they vapourise the tissue, creating smoke that is normally sucked away by extraction systems," the Imperial College had said in a statement at the time. ALSO READ | Explained: In a first, scientists use artificial DNA to kill cancer cells: Here’s what you need to know iKnife analyses the smoke emitted from the biopsy tissue when it is vapourised after being removed from the womb. It does so by using electrical currents to differentiate between cancerous and healthy tissue. Invented by Dr Zoltan Takats, of the Imperial College, who was also a part of the study published last November, believed that this smoke would be a rich source of biological information. According to the recent study, iKnife was used on 150 women with suspected womb cancer. Researchers, in order to determine the effectiveness, compared the results to the current methods of diagnosis which typically take at least two weeks to show the results. What are its implications? "In cancer surgery, you want to take out as little healthy tissue as possible, but you have to ensure that you remove all of the cancer. There is a real need for technology that can help the surgeon determine which tissue to cut out and which to leave in," said Lord Darzi, who now holds the Paul Hamlyn Chair of Surgery at the Imperial College and co-authored the 2013 study, in a statement. ALSO WATCH | WION Fineprint: How music can help cancer patients He added, "This study shows that the iKnife has the potential to do this, and the impact on cancer surgery could be enormous.” Meanwhile, speaking with the Guardian, in the context of the recent study, Athena Lamnisos, the chief executive of the UK-based Eve Appeal cancer charity which also funded the research, spoke about how stressful it is to get the test, particularly for cancer. “When you hear that the ‘c’-word is even a possibility, the days can’t pass quickly enough until a clinician gives you the all clear,” said Lamnisos. She added, “Womb cancer has one ‘red flag’ symptom of postmenopausal bleeding that should always get checked out on a two-week referral from your GP. To wait a further two weeks for the results can be really hard for patients.” Lamnisos also spoke about the different reasons for abnormal vaginal bleeding with womb cancer being just one of them, therefore, “the ability to provide a diagnostic test that rules cancer in or out immediately, and with accuracy, could make such a positive difference.” ALSO READ | Scientists develop microrobots that surround a cancer cell and kill it Sadaf Ghaem-Maghami, professor and the lead researcher of the team that created iKnife, echoed a similar sentiment of the benefits of early detection, diagnosis and treatment as well as avoiding weeks of anxiety. “With its high diagnostic accuracy of 89% and positive predictive value of 94%, one could immediately reassure the person of the very low likelihood of having cancer if the iKnife result is negative and expedite further tests and scans and treatment for people whose biopsies indicate presence of cancer,” said the lead researcher of the study, as per the Guardian. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

This surgical knife can ‘smell tumours’, detects womb cancer ‘in seconds’: Here's how it works

Scientists at Imperial College London, UK have found that the surgical knife that can “smell tumours”, effectively detects womb cancer within seconds. The breakthrough could enable thousands of women to get an earlier diagnosis paving the way for “new diagnostic pathways”.

Womb cancer detection to get easier?

Martina Navratilova: A look at the tennis legend's records as she fights another battle

Tennis legend Martina Navratilova has been diagnosed with breast and throat cancer. The 66-year-old, who was born in Czechoslovakia, told Tennis.com that the diagnosis took place this week but added that the condition is curable. This is the second time that the tennis legend was diagnosed with cancer after 2010 when she was clear after six months of his initial diagnosis.

"The double whammy is serious, but fixable, and I'm hoping for a favourable outcome. It's going to stink for a while, but I'll fight with all I have got" she said in the interview according to AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-is-out-of-icu-bcci-hopeful-of-him-getting-discharged-in-2-3-days-548814">Rishabh Pant is out of ICU, BCCI hopeful of him getting discharged in 2-3 days</a>

Navratilova won 18 Grand Slam singles titles during her illustrious career and she will be beginning the treatment in New York next week. She initially noticed an enlarged lymph node in her neck and the resultant biopsy tested revealed stage one throat cancer. During the tests, the doctors found another lump in her breast leading to the discovery that the breast cancer has returned.

Due to the diagnosis, Navratilova announced that she will not be commentating at the Australian Open 2023. She has also cancelled all her future commitments due to the upcoming treatment.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-he-was-your-favorite-bowler-kuldeep-yadavs-coach-slams-dinesh-karthik-kkr-for-dropping-him-548766">'If he was your favourite bowler....?': Kuldeep Yadav's coach slams Dinesh Karthik, KKR for dropping him</a>

“I really didn’t talk much about breast cancer before I had it,” Navratilova told PEOPLE magazine.

“Now, I’m approached by women and we share our stories. It’s encouraging to see that there’s life after cancer.” Navratilova has been a major advocate of LGBTQ+ rights and although she faced criticism when she came out in the 1970s, she ended her career with 59 major titles.

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Tennis legend Martina Navratilova has been diagnosed with breast and throat cancer. The 66-year-old, who was born in Czechoslovakia, told Tennis.com that the diagnosis took place this week but added that the condition is curable.

Tennis legend Martina Navratilova has been diagnosed with breast and throat cancer. The 66-year-old, who was born in Czechoslovakia, told Tennis.com that the diagnosis took place this week but added that the condition is curable. This is the second time that the tennis legend was diagnosed with cancer after 2010 when she was clear after six months of his initial diagnosis. "The double whammy is serious, but fixable, and I'm hoping for a favourable outcome. It's going to stink for a while, but I'll fight with all I have got" she said in the interview according to AFP. Also read | Rishabh Pant is out of ICU, BCCI hopeful of him getting discharged in 2-3 days Navratilova won 18 Grand Slam singles titles during her illustrious career and she will be beginning the treatment in New York next week. She initially noticed an enlarged lymph node in her neck and the resultant biopsy tested revealed stage one throat cancer. During the tests, the doctors found another lump in her breast leading to the discovery that the breast cancer has returned. Due to the diagnosis, Navratilova announced that she will not be commentating at the Australian Open 2023. She has also cancelled all her future commitments due to the upcoming treatment. Also read | 'If he was your favourite bowler....?': Kuldeep Yadav's coach slams Dinesh Karthik, KKR for dropping him “I really didn’t talk much about breast cancer before I had it,” Navratilova told PEOPLE magazine. “Now, I’m approached by women and we share our stories. It’s encouraging to see that there’s life after cancer.” Navratilova has been a major advocate of LGBTQ+ rights and although she faced criticism when she came out in the 1970s, she ended her career with 59 major titles.

Tennis legend Martina Navratilova diagnosed with breast and throat cancer

Tennis icon Martina Navratilova revealed that she has been diagnosed with throat and breast cancer. Navratilova added that the cancer was in Stage 1, and the prognosis are good, with treatments to begin next week.

Tennis icon Martina Navratilova diagnosed with throat and breast cancer

A man from England's Greater Manchester who was given a year to live after being diagnosed with an invasive form of cancer is now disease-free. The development occurs after a personalised drug regime that the 51-year-old patient was put on in the United Kingdom.&nbsp;

Robert Glynn, 51, is a welder by profession and was diagnosed with intrahepatic bile duct cancer in June 2020 right before he was about to turn 49.&nbsp;

Bile ducts are small tubes that connect the liver, gall bladder and small intestine. They release bile into the human alimentary canal, helping to digest fat. When Glynn was diagnosed with cancer after experiencing severe pain in his shoulder, the cancer spread to his liver and adrenal gland. Glynn's Cancer classed as stage 4, left him with the least prospect to survive for more than a year.&nbsp;

WATCH&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-how-music-can-help-cancer-patients-547161">WION Fineprint: How music can help cancer patients</a>

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"I asked my consultant to be honest and tell me how long I’d got if I carried on as I was, and she said 12 months," he was quoted as saying by The Guardian.

According to Liver Cancer UK, only one in 50 people live for at least five years after being diagnosed with bile duct cancer.&nbsp;

Immunotherapy helped Glenn defeat Cancer

Glynn was reportedly deemed a good candidate to participate in a clinical trial of an immunotherapy drug that is already approved for use in lung, kidney and oesophageal cancer.

Immunotherapy acts&nbsp;by helping the human immune system recognise and attack cancer cells.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/in-a-first-scientists-use-artificial-dna-to-kill-cancer-cells-heres-what-you-need-to-know-547276">Explained: In a first, scientists use artificial DNA to kill cancer cells: Here’s what you need to know</a> 
 
The treatment, which is given by a drip and helps a person’s own immune system fight cancer, was combined with standard chemotherapy.

The tumour in his liver shrank from 12cm to 2.6cm, while his adrenal gland tumour shrank from 7cm to 4.1cm. Following this,&nbsp;Glynn was able to undergo surgery in April to remove his tumours.

Surgeons reportedly found only dead tissue, which meant the treatment had killed off all the cancer cells. "They didn’t find any active cancer cells at all. They tested the tumours twice because they couldn’t quite believe it,"&nbsp;said Glynn.

Since his operation in April this year, Glynn has not needed any more treatment and his three-monthly scans show he is clear of cancer.

Other studies are now being carried out with more patients in the UK, with the hope of changing the course of treatment of biliary tract cancer and improving the related survival rate.&nbsp;

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A man from England's Greater Manchester who was given a year to live after being diagnosed with an invasive form of cancer is now disease-free. The development occurs after a personalised drug regime that the 51-year-old patient was put on in the United Kingdom.

A man from England's Greater Manchester who was given a year to live after being diagnosed with an invasive form of cancer is now disease-free. The development occurs after a personalised drug regime that the 51-year-old patient was put on in the United Kingdom. Robert Glynn, 51, is a welder by profession and was diagnosed with intrahepatic bile duct cancer in June 2020 right before he was about to turn 49. Bile ducts are small tubes that connect the liver, gall bladder and small intestine. They release bile into the human alimentary canal, helping to digest fat. When Glynn was diagnosed with cancer after experiencing severe pain in his shoulder, the cancer spread to his liver and adrenal gland. Glynn's Cancer classed as stage 4, left him with the least prospect to survive for more than a year. WATCH | WION Fineprint: How music can help cancer patients × "I asked my consultant to be honest and tell me how long I’d got if I carried on as I was, and she said 12 months," he was quoted as saying by The Guardian. According to Liver Cancer UK, only one in 50 people live for at least five years after being diagnosed with bile duct cancer. Immunotherapy helped Glenn defeat Cancer Glynn was reportedly deemed a good candidate to participate in a clinical trial of an immunotherapy drug that is already approved for use in lung, kidney and oesophageal cancer. Immunotherapy acts by helping the human immune system recognise and attack cancer cells. ALSO READ | Explained: In a first, scientists use artificial DNA to kill cancer cells: Here’s what you need to know The treatment, which is given by a drip and helps a person’s own immune system fight cancer, was combined with standard chemotherapy. The tumour in his liver shrank from 12cm to 2.6cm, while his adrenal gland tumour shrank from 7cm to 4.1cm. Following this, Glynn was able to undergo surgery in April to remove his tumours. Surgeons reportedly found only dead tissue, which meant the treatment had killed off all the cancer cells. "They didn’t find any active cancer cells at all. They tested the tumours twice because they couldn’t quite believe it," said Glynn. Since his operation in April this year, Glynn has not needed any more treatment and his three-monthly scans show he is clear of cancer. Other studies are now being carried out with more patients in the UK, with the hope of changing the course of treatment of biliary tract cancer and improving the related survival rate. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK man, given a year to live, defeats stage-4 Cancer

A husband and wife in South Dakota state of the United States died of cancer within hours of each other. The duo, in their fifties, passed away just two days before Christmas.

Steve Hawkins, 58, and his wife Wendy, 52, died from different forms of cancer at the same hospital in Yankton, South Dakota, on Friday, reports in the US media said.&nbsp;

The couple is survived by three children, all in their twenties.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/in-a-first-scientists-use-artificial-dna-to-kill-cancer-cells-heres-what-you-need-to-know-547276">Explained: In a first, scientists use artificial DNA to kill cancer cells: Here’s what you need to know</a>

According to an official statement, Steve Hawkins was diagnosed with cancer about five years ago. His wife Wendy, however, faced a 'short battle' with the disease.

The statement shared on social media, read: "With profound sadness, we inform you that Yankton County EMS Administrator Steve Hawkins passed away on Friday, December 23rd, 2022 after battling cancer for nearly five years. He was 58."

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-how-music-can-help-cancer-patients-547161">WION Fineprint: How music can help cancer patients</a>

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"Steve was hired as our administrator in June 2009. Before coming to Yankton, Steve was a Paramedic in Cody, Wyoming and Yellowstone National Park. He began his Paramedic career in San Diego, California. In another sad turn of events, Steve's wife, Wendy Hawkins, also passed away on the same day, Friday, December 23rd, 2022 at age 52 after a short battle with cancer. Wendy was a devoted wife and mother who stayed at home to raise their three children, Brad, Mandi and Trent, who are now in their 20s."

"Brad and Trent are still living at home, while Mandi and her fiancé live in Iowa."

It wasn't clear which form of cancer the South Dakota couple was suffering from. But a comment from Steve's sister stated that they were of different types.

The post went on to say that a memorial service was planned but didn’t have a date as of yet. It also shared a GoFundMe link to help the family cover the cost of the funerals.

The page, which was set up by Steve and Wendy's son Trenton, has raised $18,000 in three days, which will go towards the costs of the funerals.

On the page, the couple's son wrote: "This has been a very tragic experience and my family and I are trying to come up with the funds to pay for two funerals. They were wonderful parents and took very good care of their family and I am trying to take care of them."

According to a study published in The Lancet, almost 10 million people die from cancer annually.&nbsp;

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A husband and wife in South Dakota state of the United States died of cancer within hours of each other. The duo, in their fifties, passed away just two days before Christmas.

A husband and wife in South Dakota state of the United States died of cancer within hours of each other. The duo, in their fifties, passed away just two days before Christmas. Steve Hawkins, 58, and his wife Wendy, 52, died from different forms of cancer at the same hospital in Yankton, South Dakota, on Friday, reports in the US media said. The couple is survived by three children, all in their twenties. ALSO READ | Explained: In a first, scientists use artificial DNA to kill cancer cells: Here’s what you need to know According to an official statement, Steve Hawkins was diagnosed with cancer about five years ago. His wife Wendy, however, faced a 'short battle' with the disease. The statement shared on social media, read: "With profound sadness, we inform you that Yankton County EMS Administrator Steve Hawkins passed away on Friday, December 23rd, 2022 after battling cancer for nearly five years. He was 58." WATCH | WION Fineprint: How music can help cancer patients × "Steve was hired as our administrator in June 2009. Before coming to Yankton, Steve was a Paramedic in Cody, Wyoming and Yellowstone National Park. He began his Paramedic career in San Diego, California. In another sad turn of events, Steve's wife, Wendy Hawkins, also passed away on the same day, Friday, December 23rd, 2022 at age 52 after a short battle with cancer. Wendy was a devoted wife and mother who stayed at home to raise their three children, Brad, Mandi and Trent, who are now in their 20s." "Brad and Trent are still living at home, while Mandi and her fiancé live in Iowa." It wasn't clear which form of cancer the South Dakota couple was suffering from. But a comment from Steve's sister stated that they were of different types. The post went on to say that a memorial service was planned but didn’t have a date as of yet. It also shared a GoFundMe link to help the family cover the cost of the funerals. The page, which was set up by Steve and Wendy's son Trenton, has raised $18,000 in three days, which will go towards the costs of the funerals. On the page, the couple's son wrote: "This has been a very tragic experience and my family and I are trying to come up with the funds to pay for two funerals. They were wonderful parents and took very good care of their family and I am trying to take care of them." According to a study published in The Lancet, almost 10 million people die from cancer annually. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US couple dies of different types of cancer hours apart from each other

A new study by the Queen's University Belfast has further clarified that nitrite-cured meat increases the risk of cancer. The W.H.O. has already classified processed meat as a carcinogen, but consumers continue to eat it. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: New study says processed meat increases risk of cancer

Researchers have found a new way to kill cancer cells by using artificial DNA which could pave the way for a cure of&nbsp;the disease in future. The existing methods of treating cancer have their limitations, however, scientists believe that RNA and DNA-based drugs could potentially help beat the deadly disease.&nbsp;The findings published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, last week, show that researchers at the University of Tokyo have used the chemically-synthesised, hairpin-shaped, cancer-killing DNA to target and kill human cervical cancer and breast cancer-derived cells. The DNA pairs were also used against malignant melanoma cells in mice.&nbsp;

The team of researchers at the University of Tokyo, led by Assistant Professor Kunihiko Morihiro and Professor Akimitsu Okamoto from the Graduate School of Engineering, indicated that they were inspired to move away from conventional anti-cancer drug treatments by using artificial DNA.&nbsp;

Notably, nucleic acids&nbsp;(namely DNA and RNA) drugs are not typically used for cancer treatment&nbsp;and have been challenging in the past given that it is difficult for them to distinguish between cancer cells and other healthy cells.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/revolutionary-gene-therapy-treats-patients-incurable-cancer-gives-hope-to-others-542264">Revolutionary gene therapy treats patient's incurable cancer, gives hope to others</a>

Therefore, there has been a risk of adversely affecting the patient’s immune system if the healthy cells are accidentally attacked. “We thought that if we can create new drugs that work by a different mechanism of action from that of conventional drugs, they may be effective against cancers that have been untreatable up to now,” said Okamoto.&nbsp;

This led the team of researchers, for the first time, to develop the&nbsp;hairpin-shaped DNA strand which can activate a natural immune response to target and kill specific cancerous cells.&nbsp;

How does it work?

Cancer cells can overexpress, which means creating too many copies of a protein like RNA, DNA or other substance, causing them not to function normally and potentially contributing to cancer development. Therefore, to mitigate this growth as well as prevent it, the team from Tokyo created something called artificial oncolytic which are the aforementioned DNA pairs called oHPs.

The hairpin-shaped DNA was injected into the cancer cell, subsequently, oHPs were triggered to form longer DNA strands when they encountered microRNA called miR-21, which is overproduced in certain cancers, these molecules then began to unravel and joined together creating an immune response. Furthermore, these long chains of DNA not only killed the cancer cells, but they were also able to prevent further growth of the cancerous tissue.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-how-music-can-help-cancer-patients-547161">WION Fineprint: How music can help cancer patients</a>

Typically, oHPs don't form longer strands due to their curved hairpin shape, but in this case, the artificial oHPs were able to overcome this limitation and opened up to combine with target microRNA and form a longer strand. According to the study, this causes the immune system to recognise the presence of the overexpressed miR-21 as dangerous and trigger its innate immune response which results in the death of the cancer cells.&nbsp;

What type of cancers was it effective against?

The study found that the test was effective against overexpressed miR-21 found in human cervical cancer-derived cells, human triple-negative breast cancer-derived cells, and mouse malignant melanoma-derived cells.&nbsp;

What next?

In a statement, Okamoto said that the formation of DNA strands due to interaction between short DNA oHPs and overexpressed miR-21 are the first examples of its use as a “selective immune amplification response which can target tumour regression”. &nbsp;

The researcher also noted how the interaction found by the research team provides, “a new class of nucleic acid drug candidates with a mechanism that is completely different from known nucleic acid drugs.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/uk-couple-battling-cancer-in-pregnancy-gives-birth-to-miracle-baby-545840">UK couple, battling cancer in pregnancy, gives birth to perfectly healthy ‘miracle’ baby</a>

Furthermore, the research is expected to transform the future of medicine through the use of a similar method to treat illnesses caused by viruses and genetic diseases. However, they still have a long way to go before the method can actually be used as a treatment and made available for the general public, but the team is confident about the benefits of nucleic acids for new drug discovery.&nbsp;

“The results of this study are good news for doctors, drug discovery researchers and cancer patients, as we believe it will give them new options for drug development and medication policies. Next, we will aim for drug discovery based on the results of this research, and examine in detail the drug efficacy, toxicity and potential administration methods,” Okamoto noted.&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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Researchers have found a new way to kill cancer cells by using artificial DNA which could pave the way for a cure of the disease in future. The existing methods of treating cancer have their limitations, however, scientists believe that RNA and DNA-based drugs could potentially help beat the deadly disease.

Researchers have found a new way to kill cancer cells by using artificial DNA which could pave the way for a cure of the disease in future. The existing methods of treating cancer have their limitations, however, scientists believe that RNA and DNA-based drugs could potentially help beat the deadly disease. The findings published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, last week, show that researchers at the University of Tokyo have used the chemically-synthesised, hairpin-shaped, cancer-killing DNA to target and kill human cervical cancer and breast cancer-derived cells. The DNA pairs were also used against malignant melanoma cells in mice. The team of researchers at the University of Tokyo, led by Assistant Professor Kunihiko Morihiro and Professor Akimitsu Okamoto from the Graduate School of Engineering, indicated that they were inspired to move away from conventional anti-cancer drug treatments by using artificial DNA. Notably, nucleic acids (namely DNA and RNA) drugs are not typically used for cancer treatment and have been challenging in the past given that it is difficult for them to distinguish between cancer cells and other healthy cells. ALSO READ | Revolutionary gene therapy treats patient's incurable cancer, gives hope to others Therefore, there has been a risk of adversely affecting the patient’s immune system if the healthy cells are accidentally attacked. “We thought that if we can create new drugs that work by a different mechanism of action from that of conventional drugs, they may be effective against cancers that have been untreatable up to now,” said Okamoto. This led the team of researchers, for the first time, to develop the hairpin-shaped DNA strand which can activate a natural immune response to target and kill specific cancerous cells. How does it work? Cancer cells can overexpress, which means creating too many copies of a protein like RNA, DNA or other substance, causing them not to function normally and potentially contributing to cancer development. Therefore, to mitigate this growth as well as prevent it, the team from Tokyo created something called artificial oncolytic which are the aforementioned DNA pairs called oHPs. The hairpin-shaped DNA was injected into the cancer cell, subsequently, oHPs were triggered to form longer DNA strands when they encountered microRNA called miR-21, which is overproduced in certain cancers, these molecules then began to unravel and joined together creating an immune response. Furthermore, these long chains of DNA not only killed the cancer cells, but they were also able to prevent further growth of the cancerous tissue. ALSO WATCH | WION Fineprint: How music can help cancer patients Typically, oHPs don't form longer strands due to their curved hairpin shape, but in this case, the artificial oHPs were able to overcome this limitation and opened up to combine with target microRNA and form a longer strand. According to the study, this causes the immune system to recognise the presence of the overexpressed miR-21 as dangerous and trigger its innate immune response which results in the death of the cancer cells. What type of cancers was it effective against? The study found that the test was effective against overexpressed miR-21 found in human cervical cancer-derived cells, human triple-negative breast cancer-derived cells, and mouse malignant melanoma-derived cells. What next? In a statement, Okamoto said that the formation of DNA strands due to interaction between short DNA oHPs and overexpressed miR-21 are the first examples of its use as a “selective immune amplification response which can target tumour regression”. The researcher also noted how the interaction found by the research team provides, “a new class of nucleic acid drug candidates with a mechanism that is completely different from known nucleic acid drugs.” ALSO READ | UK couple, battling cancer in pregnancy, gives birth to perfectly healthy ‘miracle’ baby Furthermore, the research is expected to transform the future of medicine through the use of a similar method to treat illnesses caused by viruses and genetic diseases. However, they still have a long way to go before the method can actually be used as a treatment and made available for the general public, but the team is confident about the benefits of nucleic acids for new drug discovery. “The results of this study are good news for doctors, drug discovery researchers and cancer patients, as we believe it will give them new options for drug development and medication policies. Next, we will aim for drug discovery based on the results of this research, and examine in detail the drug efficacy, toxicity and potential administration methods,” Okamoto noted. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: In a first, scientists use artificial DNA to kill cancer cells: Here’s what you need to know

A recent study has found that patients with cancer and sickle cell disease (SCD) receiving treatment at academic cancer centres experienced much less pain and anxiety when receiving music therapy.

WION Fineprint: How music can help cancer patients

A UK couple, who was fighting cancer and going through chemotherapy in the pregnancy days, gave birth to a ‘miracle baby’. The doctors had diagnosed James Jefferson-Loveday with Hodgkin’s lymphoma in December 2021, months before his wife Bethany was found suffering from cancer, when she was 21 weeks pregnant.

It was the husband’s cancer diagnosis which made the couple try for a baby. After receiving the treatment, the couple gave birth to a healthy baby Heidi, who is being called a “miracle baby”.

Dr Salim Shafeek, from whom the couple received treatment, said, “The combination of being pregnant and having high-grade Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is exceptionally rare, and Bethany is the first case of this I've treated in my 25 years as a Consultant Haematologist."

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/revolutionary-gene-therapy-treats-patients-incurable-cancer-gives-hope-to-others-542264">UK couple after battling cancer in the pregnancy days gives birth to a ‘miracle baby’&nbsp;</a>

In her first trimester, Bethany was unwell, while her husband was receiving chemotherapy for his lymphoma. After she sought medical help, she received devastating news. "I will never forget the moment I was given my diagnosis. I remember questioning how this was possible as my husband was undergoing treatment for Hodgkin's lymphoma at the time,” said Bethany.

The hospital trust said that she discussed all treatment options with Worcestershire Royal Hospital’s consultant obstetrician before going through six cycles of chemotherapy. Dr Shafeek stated that they were not able to delay the process of chemotherapy or use stronger treatment which had to end in 35 weeks so that she is given enough time to recover from childbirth.

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A ‘miracle’ baby has been born healthy at Worcestershire Royal Hospital despite BOTH mother and father undergoing chemotherapy during the pregnancy. 
 
All three are now well and looking forward to their first family Christmas at home together. 
 
A THREAD 🧵 [1/6]... <a href="https://t.co/Rk6KH3Unqv">pic.twitter.com/Rk6KH3Unqv</a>
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"After every chemotherapy I felt a sense of celebration that I had another one under my belt and was closer to having my baby," Bethany said. She added that her husband "completely understood what I was going through" as he underwent his treatment and also had his head shaved when his wife lost her hair.

WATCH| Gravitas: Medical miracle: Clinical trial manages to free 14 patients of cancer

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The hospital trust stated that she underwent a Caesarean section to deliver her baby daughter Heidi, who was miraculously healthy and free from any adverse effects. "James and I both agree that Heidi's birthday was the best day of our lives. It is the happiest I have ever felt," said the new mother.

"Dr Shafeek described Heidi as a miracle and reflecting back on the past year, he is absolutely right,” she added. She stated that the hospital team is like her family. "All manner of scenarios had been mapped out to ensure a plan was in place to manage any risks should they arise. It's difficult to put into words how grateful we are as a family for everything they have done for us," she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A UK couple, who was fighting cancer and going through chemotherapy in the pregnancy days, gave birth to a ‘miracle baby’. The doctors had diagnosed James Jefferson-Loveday with Hodgkin’s lymphoma in December 2021, months before his wife Bethany was found suffering from cancer, when she was 21 weeks pregnant.

A UK couple, who was fighting cancer and going through chemotherapy in the pregnancy days, gave birth to a ‘miracle baby’. The doctors had diagnosed James Jefferson-Loveday with Hodgkin’s lymphoma in December 2021, months before his wife Bethany was found suffering from cancer, when she was 21 weeks pregnant. It was the husband’s cancer diagnosis which made the couple try for a baby. After receiving the treatment, the couple gave birth to a healthy baby Heidi, who is being called a “miracle baby”. Dr Salim Shafeek, from whom the couple received treatment, said, “The combination of being pregnant and having high-grade Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is exceptionally rare, and Bethany is the first case of this I've treated in my 25 years as a Consultant Haematologist." ALSO READ| UK couple after battling cancer in the pregnancy days gives birth to a ‘miracle baby’ In her first trimester, Bethany was unwell, while her husband was receiving chemotherapy for his lymphoma. After she sought medical help, she received devastating news. "I will never forget the moment I was given my diagnosis. I remember questioning how this was possible as my husband was undergoing treatment for Hodgkin's lymphoma at the time,” said Bethany. The hospital trust said that she discussed all treatment options with Worcestershire Royal Hospital’s consultant obstetrician before going through six cycles of chemotherapy. Dr Shafeek stated that they were not able to delay the process of chemotherapy or use stronger treatment which had to end in 35 weeks so that she is given enough time to recover from childbirth. A ‘miracle’ baby has been born healthy at Worcestershire Royal Hospital despite BOTH mother and father undergoing chemotherapy during the pregnancy. All three are now well and looking forward to their first family Christmas at home together. A THREAD 🧵 [1/6]... pic.twitter.com/Rk6KH3Unqv — Worcestershire Acute NHS (@WorcsAcuteNHS) December 16, 2022 × "After every chemotherapy I felt a sense of celebration that I had another one under my belt and was closer to having my baby," Bethany said. She added that her husband "completely understood what I was going through" as he underwent his treatment and also had his head shaved when his wife lost her hair. WATCH| Gravitas: Medical miracle: Clinical trial manages to free 14 patients of cancer The hospital trust stated that she underwent a Caesarean section to deliver her baby daughter Heidi, who was miraculously healthy and free from any adverse effects. "James and I both agree that Heidi's birthday was the best day of our lives. It is the happiest I have ever felt," said the new mother. "Dr Shafeek described Heidi as a miracle and reflecting back on the past year, he is absolutely right,” she added. She stated that the hospital team is like her family. "All manner of scenarios had been mapped out to ensure a plan was in place to manage any risks should they arise. It's difficult to put into words how grateful we are as a family for everything they have done for us," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

UK couple, battling cancer in pregnancy, gives birth to perfectly healthy ‘miracle’ baby

The hospital treating Brazilian football great Pele announced a "progression" Wednesday in his cancer, as well as kidney and heart problems.

Pele, 82, is being treated in the general ward but "requires greater care related to renal and cardiac dysfunctions," said the Albert Einstein Hospital in Sao Paulo.

Considered by many to be the greatest footballer of all time, Pele was hospitalized in Sao Paulo on November 29 for what his medical team called a re-evaluation of his chemotherapy treatments, which he has been receiving since having surgery to remove a colon tumor&nbsp;in September 2021.

Doctors have also diagnosed Pele -- whose real name is Edson Arantes do Nascimento -- with a respiratory infection.

Earlier this month, Pele's daughters Kely Nascimento and Flavia Arantes sought to reassure fans about his health, denying reports that Pele had been placed in end-of-life care.

"Edson Arantes do Nascimento presents cancer disease progression and requires greater care related to renal and cardiac dysfunctions" a hospital statement said Wednesday.

He was not in intensive care, it added.

Just minutes after the hospital announcement, Nascimento and Arantes said on Instagram their father would not be home for Christmas.

"Our Christmas at home has been suspended," they wrote.

"We decided with the doctors that, for various reasons, it would be better for us to stay here with all the care that this new family at Einstein gives us!!"

Pele scored more than 1,000 goals in one of the most storied careers in sport. He is the only player in history to win three World Cups (1958, 1962 and 1970).

"The King" has been in fragile health in recent years, and his public appearances have grown rare. But he remains active on social media.

He posted regularly online during the Qatar World Cup, including a message of support to Brazil star Neymar after the "Selecao" crashed out of the tournament in a quarter-final loss to Croatia.

&nbsp;

The hospital treating Brazilian football great Pele announced a "progression" Wednesday in his cancer, as well as kidney and heart problems. Pele, 82, is being treated in the general ward but "requires greater care related to renal and cardiac dysfunctions," said the Albert Einstein Hospital in Sao Paulo.

The hospital treating Brazilian football great Pele announced a "progression" Wednesday in his cancer, as well as kidney and heart problems. Pele, 82, is being treated in the general ward but "requires greater care related to renal and cardiac dysfunctions," said the Albert Einstein Hospital in Sao Paulo. Considered by many to be the greatest footballer of all time, Pele was hospitalized in Sao Paulo on November 29 for what his medical team called a re-evaluation of his chemotherapy treatments, which he has been receiving since having surgery to remove a colon tumor in September 2021. Doctors have also diagnosed Pele -- whose real name is Edson Arantes do Nascimento -- with a respiratory infection. Earlier this month, Pele's daughters Kely Nascimento and Flavia Arantes sought to reassure fans about his health, denying reports that Pele had been placed in end-of-life care. "Edson Arantes do Nascimento presents cancer disease progression and requires greater care related to renal and cardiac dysfunctions" a hospital statement said Wednesday. He was not in intensive care, it added. Just minutes after the hospital announcement, Nascimento and Arantes said on Instagram their father would not be home for Christmas. "Our Christmas at home has been suspended," they wrote. "We decided with the doctors that, for various reasons, it would be better for us to stay here with all the care that this new family at Einstein gives us!!" Pele scored more than 1,000 goals in one of the most storied careers in sport. He is the only player in history to win three World Cups (1958, 1962 and 1970). "The King" has been in fragile health in recent years, and his public appearances have grown rare. But he remains active on social media. He posted regularly online during the Qatar World Cup, including a message of support to Brazil star Neymar after the "Selecao" crashed out of the tournament in a quarter-final loss to Croatia.

Pele's kidney and heart dysfunctional as cancer worsens

Japan's Ryuichi Sakamoto, known for his electronic music, including the score for 'The Last Emperor,'&nbsp;on Monday finished streaming a concert that may be the last for the Academy-award winning composer, who is fighting stage 4 cancer.

Sakamoto, 70, said in an online message in December that the unorthodox performance - broadcast to more than two dozen nations around the world - came about because he could no longer complete a regular concert.&nbsp;

"My strength has really fallen, so a normal concert of about an hour to ninety minutes would be very difficult," he said. "As a result, I've recorded it song by song and edited it together so it can be presented as a regular concert - which I believe can be pleasureable in the normal way. Enjoy."

The concert, which featured a Sakamoto solo on piano for 13 of the songs, included themes from "The Last Emperor" and "Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence," in which he acted alongside David Bowie in addition to writing the score. It was streamed four times starting at noon on Dec. 11, with the last coming early on Monday morning in Japan.&nbsp;

First introduced to the piano as a toddler, Sakamoto studied ethnomusicology at the Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music, with particular interest in the traditional music of Japan's Okinawa prefecture, Indian and African musical traditions. He also described classical musician Claude Debussy as his hero.&nbsp;

He matured into a keyboard and electronic musician and composer who became known for film scores, especially Nagisa Oshima's "Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence" and Bernard Bertolucci's "The Last Emperor," for which he won an Academy Award.

In 2014 he was diagnosed with throat cancer, which was cured after years of treatment. But in January 2021 he said he had been diagnosed with rectal cancer the previous year.

In June 2022, he wrote in an essay that the cancer had spread despite multiple operations and was now Stage 4.

"I have just turned 70, but how many more times will I be able to see the full moon?" he wrote. "But even thinking that, since I have been granted life, I am praying that I will be able to make music until my last moments, just like my beloved Bach and Debussy." 
&nbsp;

Japan's Ryuichi Sakamoto, known for his electronic music, including the score for 'The Last Emperor,' on Monday finished streaming a concert that may be the last for the Academy-award winning composer, who is fighting stage 4 cancer.

Japan's Ryuichi Sakamoto, known for his electronic music, including the score for 'The Last Emperor,' on Monday finished streaming a concert that may be the last for the Academy-award winning composer, who is fighting stage 4 cancer. Sakamoto, 70, said in an online message in December that the unorthodox performance - broadcast to more than two dozen nations around the world - came about because he could no longer complete a regular concert. "My strength has really fallen, so a normal concert of about an hour to ninety minutes would be very difficult," he said. "As a result, I've recorded it song by song and edited it together so it can be presented as a regular concert - which I believe can be pleasureable in the normal way. Enjoy." The concert, which featured a Sakamoto solo on piano for 13 of the songs, included themes from "The Last Emperor" and "Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence," in which he acted alongside David Bowie in addition to writing the score. It was streamed four times starting at noon on Dec. 11, with the last coming early on Monday morning in Japan. First introduced to the piano as a toddler, Sakamoto studied ethnomusicology at the Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music, with particular interest in the traditional music of Japan's Okinawa prefecture, Indian and African musical traditions. He also described classical musician Claude Debussy as his hero. He matured into a keyboard and electronic musician and composer who became known for film scores, especially Nagisa Oshima's "Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence" and Bernard Bertolucci's "The Last Emperor," for which he won an Academy Award. In 2014 he was diagnosed with throat cancer, which was cured after years of treatment. But in January 2021 he said he had been diagnosed with rectal cancer the previous year. In June 2022, he wrote in an essay that the cancer had spread despite multiple operations and was now Stage 4. "I have just turned 70, but how many more times will I be able to see the full moon?" he wrote. "But even thinking that, since I have been granted life, I am praying that I will be able to make music until my last moments, just like my beloved Bach and Debussy."

Ryuichi Sakamoto, fighting cancer, livestreams what may be final concert

An incurable cancer was cleared inside the body of a teenage girl with the use of a revolutionary gene therapy after all other treatments failed to cure 13-year-old Alyssa's leukaemia.

So, the doctors of Great Ormond Street Hospital decided to use "base editing" to build a new living drug for the patient. Now, six months later, the cancer is not being detected inside the girl's body, however, she is still being monitored.&nbsp;

In May last year, Alyssa was diagnosed with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. T-cells act as guardians of our body, however, in her case, their growth was uncontrollable and had become dangerous.&nbsp;

The nature of her cancer was aggressive and neither chemotherapy nor a bone-marrow transplant was able to help her. If there was no experimental medicine, then doctors had the only option to reduce the pain she was enduring.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-has-the-pandemic-led-to-a-cancer-epidemic-in-europe-534722">Has the repurposing of health services during pandemic led to a 'cancer epidemic' in Europe?</a>

"Eventually I would have passed away," Alyssa said. Her mother Kiona said that she was dreading Christmas last year, "thinking this is our last with her" and that she was just crying on the 13th birthday of her daughter in January.

The miracle that unfolded next was unthinkable a few years back and was made possible today due to the advancement achieved in genetics.

The technology of base editing, which came into existence six years ago, was used by the doctors at Great Ormond Street.&nbsp;

Alyssa was the one who decided to be the first patient to receive the experimental therapy in May this year.&nbsp;

Great Ormond Street's Prof Waseem Qasim said, “She's the first patient to be treated with this technology. He added that genetic manipulation was a "very fast-moving area of science" and has "enormous potential" to deal with various diseases.

Today Alyssa is hoping to have a great Christmas, dressing up as a bridesmaid at the wedding of her aunt, going to school and doing all the normal stuff.

(With inputs from agencies)

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An incurable cancer was cleared inside the body of a teenage girl with the use of a revolutionary gene therapy after all other treatments failed to cure 13-year-old Alyssa's leukaemia.

An incurable cancer was cleared inside the body of a teenage girl with the use of a revolutionary gene therapy after all other treatments failed to cure 13-year-old Alyssa's leukaemia. So, the doctors of Great Ormond Street Hospital decided to use "base editing" to build a new living drug for the patient. Now, six months later, the cancer is not being detected inside the girl's body, however, she is still being monitored. In May last year, Alyssa was diagnosed with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. T-cells act as guardians of our body, however, in her case, their growth was uncontrollable and had become dangerous. The nature of her cancer was aggressive and neither chemotherapy nor a bone-marrow transplant was able to help her. If there was no experimental medicine, then doctors had the only option to reduce the pain she was enduring. ALSO READ| Has the repurposing of health services during pandemic led to a 'cancer epidemic' in Europe? "Eventually I would have passed away," Alyssa said. Her mother Kiona said that she was dreading Christmas last year, "thinking this is our last with her" and that she was just crying on the 13th birthday of her daughter in January. The miracle that unfolded next was unthinkable a few years back and was made possible today due to the advancement achieved in genetics. The technology of base editing, which came into existence six years ago, was used by the doctors at Great Ormond Street. Alyssa was the one who decided to be the first patient to receive the experimental therapy in May this year. Great Ormond Street's Prof Waseem Qasim said, “She's the first patient to be treated with this technology. He added that genetic manipulation was a "very fast-moving area of science" and has "enormous potential" to deal with various diseases. Today Alyssa is hoping to have a great Christmas, dressing up as a bridesmaid at the wedding of her aunt, going to school and doing all the normal stuff. (With inputs from agencies)

Revolutionary gene therapy treats patient's incurable cancer, gives hope to others

England's Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty has warned that the UK might witness a spike in deaths from heart attacks and cancer. You might be wondering that this is a threat from long Covid but no, the increase in number of deaths is due to heart diseases is because of the collateral effects of Covid lockdown.

After-effects of Covid-19 lockdown: Heart disease deaths spiked during Coronavirus

A recent study at the National Cancer Institute in the US has revealed that all types of alcoholic beverages, including wine, increase cancer risk. To date, seven cancer types have been linked to alcohol consumption, including cancers of the breast, mouth and colon.

All alcohol beverages increase cancer risk, study confirms

James Whale, the TalkTV and TalkRadio host, has said he has terminal cancer. The radio host, 71, made a moving address at the British Curry Awards in London on Monday night and discussed his battle with cancer. Two years after revealing he was battling cancer that had spread to his brain, spine, kidney, and lungs, James said he only has a few months to live.

He was speaking with the attendees at an event where he said, "I know a lot of you won't like me, but this time next year I won't be here. I have terminal cancer. As you might be able to hear, I am having chemotherapy which makes it harder for me to breathe, but I'm OK. Don't worry".

"I am in my 70s now and I just want to say don't waste your time on stupid things that don't matter", he said. "25 years later I've got it again. I'm 71 and I've had a great life."&nbsp;

James continued by mentioning his buddy Enam Ali, the man behind the British Curry Awards, who passed away recently from cancer. "He was one of my best mates, he showed us that as communities we can all get on together. For that tonight I would like to give you a round of applause."

The TalkTV host continued saying, "When I'm on my TV or radio show, people might go: 'Oh, he's a bit controversial, I just want people to live together and stop being so b****y stupid all the time. Because when you get to 70, some of you will know, you can look back at your life and think 'maybe you could have done that differently'."

He presented a brave front for the event even amid this devastating news. On the red carpet, the radio personality waved at cameras and posed with his wife of one year, Nadine Talbot-Brown. In his most recent The Express column, James also discussed his cancer diagnosis and his sympathy for Jonnie Irwin of the British TV series 'A Place In The Sun.' Notably, Jonnie Irwin is also battling the terminal disease, as per The Mirror.&nbsp;

He wrote, "I found it very difficult to talk about mine because I didn't want people to think I was using it to get sympathy or for any other reason. But along with a number of other people in the public eye, I am at stage four. There is no stage five."&nbsp;

"I don't want sympathy; I've had a good life but I do find talking about it helps me and although that might sound selfish, hopefully it helps others too. Jonnie, mate, I wish you the best of luck. It is very difficult and you're a lot younger than me. But I did start this journey 25 years ago.

James Whale had a kidney removed in 2000 when doctors discovered a tumour, and that was 20 years ago. James experienced a blow when his wife Melinda passed away in 2018 following a lung cancer fight. His popularity skyrocketed when James established himself as the Leeds presenter of The James Whale Radio Show in the 1980s. For 13 years, the radio host was well-known on talkSPORT. Later, in 2016, he appeared in Celebrity Big Brother.

James Whale, the TalkTV and TalkRadio host, has said he has terminal cancer. The radio host, 71, made a moving address at the British Curry Awards in London on Monday night and discussed his battle with cancer.

James Whale, the TalkTV and TalkRadio host, has said he has terminal cancer. The radio host, 71, made a moving address at the British Curry Awards in London on Monday night and discussed his battle with cancer. Two years after revealing he was battling cancer that had spread to his brain, spine, kidney, and lungs, James said he only has a few months to live. He was speaking with the attendees at an event where he said, "I know a lot of you won't like me, but this time next year I won't be here. I have terminal cancer. As you might be able to hear, I am having chemotherapy which makes it harder for me to breathe, but I'm OK. Don't worry". "I am in my 70s now and I just want to say don't waste your time on stupid things that don't matter", he said. "25 years later I've got it again. I'm 71 and I've had a great life." James continued by mentioning his buddy Enam Ali, the man behind the British Curry Awards, who passed away recently from cancer. "He was one of my best mates, he showed us that as communities we can all get on together. For that tonight I would like to give you a round of applause." The TalkTV host continued saying, "When I'm on my TV or radio show, people might go: 'Oh, he's a bit controversial, I just want people to live together and stop being so b****y stupid all the time. Because when you get to 70, some of you will know, you can look back at your life and think 'maybe you could have done that differently'." He presented a brave front for the event even amid this devastating news. On the red carpet, the radio personality waved at cameras and posed with his wife of one year, Nadine Talbot-Brown. In his most recent The Express column, James also discussed his cancer diagnosis and his sympathy for Jonnie Irwin of the British TV series 'A Place In The Sun.' Notably, Jonnie Irwin is also battling the terminal disease, as per The Mirror. He wrote, "I found it very difficult to talk about mine because I didn't want people to think I was using it to get sympathy or for any other reason. But along with a number of other people in the public eye, I am at stage four. There is no stage five." "I don't want sympathy; I've had a good life but I do find talking about it helps me and although that might sound selfish, hopefully it helps others too. Jonnie, mate, I wish you the best of luck. It is very difficult and you're a lot younger than me. But I did start this journey 25 years ago. James Whale had a kidney removed in 2000 when doctors discovered a tumour, and that was 20 years ago. James experienced a blow when his wife Melinda passed away in 2018 following a lung cancer fight. His popularity skyrocketed when James established himself as the Leeds presenter of The James Whale Radio Show in the 1980s. For 13 years, the radio host was well-known on talkSPORT. Later, in 2016, he appeared in Celebrity Big Brother.

'This time next year I won't be here': Emotions run high as host James Whale talks of terminal cancer

The CBD or cannabidiol oil does not improve the pain, depression, anxiety or quality of life among the palliative care patients with advanced cancer, found a study by Brisbane-based Mater hospital and the University of Queensland.&nbsp;

The trial studied the effects of cannabidiol oil&nbsp;on the relief of pain, depression, anxiety and quality of life on 144 patients receiving palliative care for cancer. This was a&nbsp;double-blinded trial, which meant that neither the researchers nor the participants of the study knew whether they were getting medicinal cannabis or a placebo.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/marijuana-magic-plant-or-menacing-drug-legal-or-illegal-its-a-highly-complex-issue-399065">Marijuana: Magic plant or menacing drug, legal or illegal? It's a 'highly' complex issue</a>

The patients also received standard care throughout the trial that was aimed to fill the gap in scientific evidence supporting the use of medicinal cannabis for pain relief and symptom distress due to cancer.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-medical-miracle-clinical-trial-manages-to-free-14-patients-of-cancer-486370">Gravitas: Medical miracle: Clinical trial manages to free 14 patients of cancer</a>

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The findings have been published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.

“The trial found there was no detectable effect of CBD on change in physical or emotional functioning, overall quality of life, fatigue, nausea and vomiting, pain, dyspnoea or appetite loss,” lead author of the study and the director of palliative and supportive care at Mater, Prof Janet Hardy, said.

But she added that the study only examined the effect of CBD.

“The cannabis plant is very complex and contains a large number of cannabinoids and other compounds,” she said. “The two most prominent cannabinoids are CBD, which is cannabidiol, and THC, which is the one that makes you high when you smoke a joint."

CBD may also be useful for the treatment of cancer-related symptoms not examined in the study, she said, such as insomnia. Despite the lack of evidence of benefit, 36 per cent of the study participants decided to buy a medicinal cannabis product after the trial.&nbsp;

Hardy said it may be that CBD contributes to a greater feeling of general wellbeing, even if it did not improve specific symptoms.

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The CBD or cannabidiol oil does not improve the pain, depression, anxiety or quality of life among the palliative care patients with advanced cancer, found a study by Brisbane-based Mater hospital and the University of Queensland.

The CBD or cannabidiol oil does not improve the pain, depression, anxiety or quality of life among the palliative care patients with advanced cancer, found a study by Brisbane-based Mater hospital and the University of Queensland. The trial studied the effects of cannabidiol oil on the relief of pain, depression, anxiety and quality of life on 144 patients receiving palliative care for cancer. This was a double-blinded trial, which meant that neither the researchers nor the participants of the study knew whether they were getting medicinal cannabis or a placebo. ALSO READ | Marijuana: Magic plant or menacing drug, legal or illegal? It's a 'highly' complex issue The patients also received standard care throughout the trial that was aimed to fill the gap in scientific evidence supporting the use of medicinal cannabis for pain relief and symptom distress due to cancer. WATCH | Gravitas: Medical miracle: Clinical trial manages to free 14 patients of cancer × The findings have been published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology. “The trial found there was no detectable effect of CBD on change in physical or emotional functioning, overall quality of life, fatigue, nausea and vomiting, pain, dyspnoea or appetite loss,” lead author of the study and the director of palliative and supportive care at Mater, Prof Janet Hardy, said. But she added that the study only examined the effect of CBD. “The cannabis plant is very complex and contains a large number of cannabinoids and other compounds,” she said. “The two most prominent cannabinoids are CBD, which is cannabidiol, and THC, which is the one that makes you high when you smoke a joint." CBD may also be useful for the treatment of cancer-related symptoms not examined in the study, she said, such as insomnia. Despite the lack of evidence of benefit, 36 per cent of the study participants decided to buy a medicinal cannabis product after the trial. Hardy said it may be that CBD contributes to a greater feeling of general wellbeing, even if it did not improve specific symptoms. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Cannabis oil does not relieve distress in cancer patients: Study

Kate Keltie, an Australian former actress and a ‘Neighbours’ star, has been diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. The 36-year-old actress portrayed Holly Valance's sister Michelle on the serial opera for five years.

Kate Keltie, an Australian former actress and a ‘Neighbours’ star, has been diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. The 36-year-old actress portrayed Holly Valance's sister Michelle on the serial opera for five years. As per media reports, her cancer is so aggressive that it has spread to her lymph nodes, blood, and hip bones, among other body regions. She has begun chemotherapy to treat her cancer. A campaign on Go Fund Me has also been initiated to help her meet expenses, where funds worth $31.5k have already been raised. Keltie has thanked her fans for this gesture, as she would be unable to work during the period of her treatment. How deadly is Stage 4 breast cancer? Kate Keltie is currently diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. In stage 4 breast cancer: The tumour could be of any size The lymph nodes may or may not contain cancer cells The cancer has probably metastasised to other parts of the body such as the bones, lungs, liver or brain Kate Keltie’s friends Rachael and Ebony said in a statement that their beautiful Kate is going through the unimaginable. They said that with no family history of cancer, this news was devastating for them as well as Kate Keltie. Now, she will lose her hair and will not be able to carry children in the future. Kate Keltie’s role in the Neighbours series Keltie played the youngest daughter in the Scully family, sister to Holly Valance's character Felicity Scully. She started working on the soap opera in 1999 and departed in 2003 before making a short comeback for Ramsay Street in 2004. Also Read | Australia: Five-year-old boy bitten, dragged by python into swimming pool, rescued by family Fundraiser campaign to support Kate Keltie With the help of the online community, who sprang in with open arms, the Go Fund Me page dedicated to her has already raised more than $30,000. Kate expressed her gratitude and said she was moved by the outpouring of support. It's fantastic to know that I have so many amazing people on my side, she said in a statement. "I recently recovered from Covid, and tomorrow, I begin my first round of chemotherapy", she added.

Kate Keltie, who played Holly Valance's sister Michelle in Neighbours, diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer

Sanitary pads may not be so hygienic after all. A new study states that most sanitary napkins sold across India contain cancer-causing contaminants. The study states that using sanitary napkins may cause cancer and even infertility among some women. The results of the study are shocking considering almost three in every four teenage women in India use sanitary napkins.

“It is shocking to find numerous harmful chemicals in commonly available sanitary products, including toxic chemicals like carcinogens, reproductive toxins, endocrine disruptors, and allergens,” said Dr Amit, one of the investigators and a programme coordinator at the environmental NGO Toxics Link which conducted the study.&nbsp; 
 
The NGO is part of the International Pollutants Elimination Network and a report in India Today states that ten brands of pads were tested for the study. The samples that were tested reportedly contained traces of phthalates and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Both contaminants have the ability to form cancerous cells. Toxics Link found the presence of certain phthalates that are restricted according to European regulations. 
 
The study also reveals that the chances of harmful chemicals being absorbed by the body are very high through sanitary pads. “As a mucous membrane, the vagina can secrete and absorb chemicals at a higher rate than the skin,” said Dr Aakanksha Mehrotra, a programme coordinator at Toxics Link who was part of this study. 
A lot of conversation about menstrual hygiene centres around how one should opt for sanitary napkins instead of unhygienic protection during periods.&nbsp; 
 
However, the presence of harmful chemicals, including carcinogens in sanitary pads has never been mentioned until now.&nbsp; 
 
India Today report cites that according to the latest National Family Health Survey, nearly 64 per cent of women aged 15-24 years use sanitary pads in India. Demography and education also determine the usage of pads. It is inferred that a more prosperous society has a higher usage of pads.

Sanitary pads may not be so hygienic after all. A new study states that most sanitary napkins sold across India contain cancer-causing contaminants. The study states that using sanitary napkins may cause cancer and even infertility among some women.

Sanitary pads may not be so hygienic after all. A new study states that most sanitary napkins sold across India contain cancer-causing contaminants. The study states that using sanitary napkins may cause cancer and even infertility among some women. The results of the study are shocking considering almost three in every four teenage women in India use sanitary napkins. “It is shocking to find numerous harmful chemicals in commonly available sanitary products, including toxic chemicals like carcinogens, reproductive toxins, endocrine disruptors, and allergens,” said Dr Amit, one of the investigators and a programme coordinator at the environmental NGO Toxics Link which conducted the study. The NGO is part of the International Pollutants Elimination Network and a report in India Today states that ten brands of pads were tested for the study. The samples that were tested reportedly contained traces of phthalates and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Both contaminants have the ability to form cancerous cells. Toxics Link found the presence of certain phthalates that are restricted according to European regulations. The study also reveals that the chances of harmful chemicals being absorbed by the body are very high through sanitary pads. “As a mucous membrane, the vagina can secrete and absorb chemicals at a higher rate than the skin,” said Dr Aakanksha Mehrotra, a programme coordinator at Toxics Link who was part of this study. A lot of conversation about menstrual hygiene centres around how one should opt for sanitary napkins instead of unhygienic protection during periods. However, the presence of harmful chemicals, including carcinogens in sanitary pads has never been mentioned until now. India Today report cites that according to the latest National Family Health Survey, nearly 64 per cent of women aged 15-24 years use sanitary pads in India. Demography and education also determine the usage of pads. It is inferred that a more prosperous society has a higher usage of pads.

Usage of sanitary pads may lead to cancer, infertility, says a new study

Experts have warned that Europe could be staring at a cancer epidemic. A report says Europe missed as many as 100 million cancer screenings last year, and 1 million Europeans could be living with undiagnosed cancer. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Experts warn of a cancer epidemic in Europe

Europe may soon face a 'cancer epidemic' unless urgent action is taken to boost treatment and research of the disease. According to a report, an estimated 1 million diagnoses were missed due to the pandemic.&nbsp; 
 
A report in The Guardian states that the healthcare sector focused on COVID-19 which affected cancer research and treatment across the continent. Experts feel if it is not addressed urgently, it may set back cancer outcomes by almost a decade.&nbsp; 
 
A report, European Groundshot – Addressing Europe’s Cancer Research Challenges: a Lancet Oncology Commission brought together a wide range of patient, scientific, and healthcare experts with detailed knowledge of cancer across Europe. 
 
One of the major side effects of the pandemic was the adverse effects of rapid repurposing of health services and lockdowns have had on cancer services, cancer research, and on patients with cancer.&nbsp; 
 
“To emphasize the scale of this problem, we estimate that about 1 million cancer diagnoses might have been missed across Europe during the Covid-19 pandemic,” experts wrote in The Lancet Oncology. “There is emerging evidence that a higher proportion of patients are diagnosed with later cancer stages compared with pre-pandemic rates as a result of substantial delays in cancer diagnosis and treatment. This cancer stage shift will continue to stress European cancer systems for years to come.” 
 
"These issues will ultimately compromise survival and contribute to inferior quality of life for many European patients with cancer." 
 
The report states that clinicians found 1.5 million fewer patients with cancer in the first year of the pandemic. The report also states that one in two patients with cancer did not receive timely surgery or chemotherapy.&nbsp; 
 
About 100 million screenings were missed, and it is estimated that as many as 1 million European citizens may have undiagnosed cancer as a result of the backlog. 
 
“We estimate that approximately 1 million cancer diagnoses were missed across Europe during the Covid-19 pandemic,” said Prof Mark Lawler, of Queen’s University Belfast, the chair and lead author of the commission. “We are in a race against time to find those missing cancers.” 
 
The report also highlights that the pandemic has also affected the desired funding that is needed for cancer prevention efforts and research.&nbsp; 
 
The report points out that the greater the prevention, the more it would reduce the number of people affected by the deadly disease and therefore lead to availability of more resources for those who do require treatment.

Europe may soon face a 'cancer epidemic' unless urgent action is taken to boost treatment and research of the disease. According to a report, an estimated 1 million diagnoses were missed due to the pandemic.

Europe may soon face a 'cancer epidemic' unless urgent action is taken to boost treatment and research of the disease. According to a report, an estimated 1 million diagnoses were missed due to the pandemic. A report in The Guardian states that the healthcare sector focused on COVID-19 which affected cancer research and treatment across the continent. Experts feel if it is not addressed urgently, it may set back cancer outcomes by almost a decade. A report, European Groundshot – Addressing Europe’s Cancer Research Challenges: a Lancet Oncology Commission brought together a wide range of patient, scientific, and healthcare experts with detailed knowledge of cancer across Europe. One of the major side effects of the pandemic was the adverse effects of rapid repurposing of health services and lockdowns have had on cancer services, cancer research, and on patients with cancer. “To emphasize the scale of this problem, we estimate that about 1 million cancer diagnoses might have been missed across Europe during the Covid-19 pandemic,” experts wrote in The Lancet Oncology. “There is emerging evidence that a higher proportion of patients are diagnosed with later cancer stages compared with pre-pandemic rates as a result of substantial delays in cancer diagnosis and treatment. This cancer stage shift will continue to stress European cancer systems for years to come.” "These issues will ultimately compromise survival and contribute to inferior quality of life for many European patients with cancer." The report states that clinicians found 1.5 million fewer patients with cancer in the first year of the pandemic. The report also states that one in two patients with cancer did not receive timely surgery or chemotherapy. About 100 million screenings were missed, and it is estimated that as many as 1 million European citizens may have undiagnosed cancer as a result of the backlog. “We estimate that approximately 1 million cancer diagnoses were missed across Europe during the Covid-19 pandemic,” said Prof Mark Lawler, of Queen’s University Belfast, the chair and lead author of the commission. “We are in a race against time to find those missing cancers.” The report also highlights that the pandemic has also affected the desired funding that is needed for cancer prevention efforts and research. The report points out that the greater the prevention, the more it would reduce the number of people affected by the deadly disease and therefore lead to availability of more resources for those who do require treatment.

Has the repurposing of health services during pandemic led to a 'cancer epidemic' in Europe?

In the world of chronic life-threatening diseases, cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. According to World Health Organisation (WHO), up to 50 per cent of cancers can be treated successfully. Rest are designated as incurable ones.&nbsp;

But a recent experimental study done on 16 cancer patients by a California-based Pact Pharma may have given a silver lining as far as the treatment of incurable cancer is concerned. This small clinical trial has shown that researchers can use Nobel Prize-winning CRISPR gene editing technology&nbsp;to alter immune cells so that they will recognise proteins attached to a person’s tumorous cells,&nbsp;to get rid of them successfully. These&nbsp;cells can then be safely set loose in the body to find and destroy their targeted tumourous developments in the body.&nbsp;

In the study, people with untreatable cancers had their immune systems redesigned to attack their own tumours. The results have been called a "leap forward" and a "powerful" demonstration of the potential of such technology.&nbsp;

The experiment involved individual-specific treatment

Each patient had a treatment developed just for them, which targeted the specific weak spots in their tumour.&nbsp;

However, the treatment has been deemed 'expensive and time-consuming'.&nbsp;

The treatment involves boosted levels of T-cells

The work focuses on parts of the human immune system called T-cells. They may be understood as the soldiers that remain always on guard to combat the pathogens or disease-causing particles present in the body.&nbsp;

Often, cancers can be tricky for the T-cells to spot and hunt down because they are the body's own corrupted cells, not alien cells or particles from outside.&nbsp;

The therapy experimented upon 16 cancer patients boosted the level of these cancer-spotting T-cells. They were tailored to each patient since each cancerous development of body cells is different from one another.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/report-more-accurate-test-for-cervical-cancer-developed-by-scientists-in-uk-austria-526789">More accurate test for cervical cancer developed by scientists in UK, Austria</a>

The researchers edited the genetic composition of these T-cells by using the gene-editing technology CRISPR. After putting these edited T-cells into the patient, the tumourous cells were hunted down by the body's own T-cells, a landmark development in itself.

The trial involved people with colon, breast or lung cancers that had failed to respond to other treatments.

The study was designed to test the safety and feasibility of the technology and showed the modified cells were finding their way into the tumour.

The disease continued to get worse in 11 patients but stabilised in the other five. However, it will take larger studies to work out the correct dose and how effective it really is.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-medical-miracle-clinical-trial-manages-to-free-14-patients-of-cancer-486370">Gravitas: Medical miracle: Clinical trial manages to free 14 patients of cancer</a>

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"This is a leap forward in developing a personalised treatment for cancer," said Dr Antoni Ribas, one of the researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles, who tested the approach.

The results of the study were presented at a meeting of the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer and published simultaneously in the journal 'Nature'.&nbsp;

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In the world of chronic life-threatening diseases, cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. According to World Health Organisation (WHO), up to 50 per cent of cancers can be treated successfully.

In the world of chronic life-threatening diseases, cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. According to World Health Organisation (WHO), up to 50 per cent of cancers can be treated successfully. Rest are designated as incurable ones. But a recent experimental study done on 16 cancer patients by a California-based Pact Pharma may have given a silver lining as far as the treatment of incurable cancer is concerned. This small clinical trial has shown that researchers can use Nobel Prize-winning CRISPR gene editing technology to alter immune cells so that they will recognise proteins attached to a person’s tumorous cells, to get rid of them successfully. These cells can then be safely set loose in the body to find and destroy their targeted tumourous developments in the body. In the study, people with untreatable cancers had their immune systems redesigned to attack their own tumours. The results have been called a "leap forward" and a "powerful" demonstration of the potential of such technology. The experiment involved individual-specific treatment Each patient had a treatment developed just for them, which targeted the specific weak spots in their tumour. However, the treatment has been deemed 'expensive and time-consuming'. The treatment involves boosted levels of T-cells The work focuses on parts of the human immune system called T-cells. They may be understood as the soldiers that remain always on guard to combat the pathogens or disease-causing particles present in the body. Often, cancers can be tricky for the T-cells to spot and hunt down because they are the body's own corrupted cells, not alien cells or particles from outside. The therapy experimented upon 16 cancer patients boosted the level of these cancer-spotting T-cells. They were tailored to each patient since each cancerous development of body cells is different from one another. ALSO READ | More accurate test for cervical cancer developed by scientists in UK, Austria The researchers edited the genetic composition of these T-cells by using the gene-editing technology CRISPR. After putting these edited T-cells into the patient, the tumourous cells were hunted down by the body's own T-cells, a landmark development in itself. The trial involved people with colon, breast or lung cancers that had failed to respond to other treatments. The study was designed to test the safety and feasibility of the technology and showed the modified cells were finding their way into the tumour. The disease continued to get worse in 11 patients but stabilised in the other five. However, it will take larger studies to work out the correct dose and how effective it really is. WATCH | Gravitas: Medical miracle: Clinical trial manages to free 14 patients of cancer × "This is a leap forward in developing a personalised treatment for cancer," said Dr Antoni Ribas, one of the researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles, who tested the approach. The results of the study were presented at a meeting of the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer and published simultaneously in the journal 'Nature'. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Personalised treatments pave way for 'leap forward' in curing cancer

What is the importance of breast cancer awareness, especially in a country like India? Know from the expert here.

Detect and treat breast cancer early

Pharmaceutical giant Novartis has signed a licencing agreement increasing access to a vital leukaemia treatment, a UN-backed public health organisation said Thursday, marking the first-ever such agreement for a cancer drug.

The deal will give selected manufacturers the opportunity to develop, manufacture and supply generic versions of nilotinib, a twice-daily oral medication used to treat chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML).

"Access to high-quality cancer medicines is a crucial component of the global health response to the cancer burden," said Charles Gore, head of the Medicines Patent Pool, the United Nations-backed public health organisation working to increase access to life-saving medicines in poorer countries. 
 
ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/report-more-accurate-test-for-cervical-cancer-developed-by-scientists-in-uk-austria-526789">Report: More accurate test for cervical cancer developed by scientists in UK, Austria</a>

While the remaining patent period for nilotinib was "relatively short", he said the licencing deal set "a vital precedent that I hope other companies will follow", Gore said in a statement.

Novartis president of global health and sustainability Lutz Hegemann said the company was "proud to be pioneering this new licensing model with MPP".

The drug is listed on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines for the treatment of adults and children over the age of one suffering from CML.

Zeba Aziz, a medical oncologist at Hameed Latif Hospital in Lahore, Pakistan, said nilotinib offers an alternative to people who are resistant or intolerant to imatinib, the first-line treatment for CML -- about 20 per cent of those who contract the disease.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-finds-that-less-than-5-hours-of-sleep-can-lead-to-chronic-illnesses-like-heart-disease-cancer-diabetes-526736">Study finds that less than 5 hours of sleep can lead to chronic illnesses like heart disease, cancer, diabetes</a>

"I am glad more people in (low and middle-income countries) will have access to this essential cancer medicine," she said in the statement.

The licence includes seven middle-income countries: Egypt, Guatemala, Indonesia, Morocco, Pakistan, the Philippines and Tunisia, where patents on the product are pending or in force, MPP said.

The Access to Oncology Medicines (ATOM) Coalition welcomed the deal.

"This is a first for cancer treatment anywhere and demonstrates that the combined efforts of the private and public sectors can pave the way to help save millions of lives," ATOM co-chair Anil D-Cruz said in a separate statement. 
&nbsp;

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Pharmaceutical giant Novartis has signed a licencing agreement increasing access to a vital leukaemia treatment, a UN-backed public health organisation said Thursday, marking the first-ever such agreement for a cancer drug.

Pharmaceutical giant Novartis has signed a licencing agreement increasing access to a vital leukaemia treatment, a UN-backed public health organisation said Thursday, marking the first-ever such agreement for a cancer drug. The deal will give selected manufacturers the opportunity to develop, manufacture and supply generic versions of nilotinib, a twice-daily oral medication used to treat chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML). "Access to high-quality cancer medicines is a crucial component of the global health response to the cancer burden," said Charles Gore, head of the Medicines Patent Pool, the United Nations-backed public health organisation working to increase access to life-saving medicines in poorer countries. ALSO READ: Report: More accurate test for cervical cancer developed by scientists in UK, Austria While the remaining patent period for nilotinib was "relatively short", he said the licencing deal set "a vital precedent that I hope other companies will follow", Gore said in a statement. Novartis president of global health and sustainability Lutz Hegemann said the company was "proud to be pioneering this new licensing model with MPP". The drug is listed on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines for the treatment of adults and children over the age of one suffering from CML. Zeba Aziz, a medical oncologist at Hameed Latif Hospital in Lahore, Pakistan, said nilotinib offers an alternative to people who are resistant or intolerant to imatinib, the first-line treatment for CML -- about 20 per cent of those who contract the disease. ALSO READ: Study finds that less than 5 hours of sleep can lead to chronic illnesses like heart disease, cancer, diabetes "I am glad more people in (low and middle-income countries) will have access to this essential cancer medicine," she said in the statement. The licence includes seven middle-income countries: Egypt, Guatemala, Indonesia, Morocco, Pakistan, the Philippines and Tunisia, where patents on the product are pending or in force, MPP said. The Access to Oncology Medicines (ATOM) Coalition welcomed the deal. "This is a first for cancer treatment anywhere and demonstrates that the combined efforts of the private and public sectors can pave the way to help save millions of lives," ATOM co-chair Anil D-Cruz said in a separate statement. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

First-ever licencing deal struck for cancer drug

New research has found that cancer cases are rising globally - especially among the young.

Gravitas: Rising cases of cancer among the young

The Cameroonian Ministry of Health has imposed to ban on skin lighting products following a speed of high-profile cases of consumers developing skin cancer.

Cameroon to phase out products, government raids several cosmetic shops in Douala

A new study has revealed that a genetically-engineered herpes treatment eradicates tumours in terminally-ill cancer patients.

Rallying the immune system, the new therapy infects and destroys cancer cells, according to scientists at the Institute for Cancer Research in London.

Shrinking the tumours of one-quarter of patients with end-of-life cancer, early trials to assess the safety of the therapy were successful.

Causing cancer cells to burst from within, the genetically engineered virus is injected directly into the tumour where it multiplies.

Giving the body more of a chance to fight off cancer, it blocks a protein called CTLA-4 which dials down the immune system.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-severe-victorian-disease-is-making-a-comeback-in-uk-warns-nhs-read-all-about-the-symptoms-and-more-518353" hreflang="en">A severe Victorian disease is making a comeback in UK, warns NHS. Read all about the symptoms and more</a>

''Viruses are one of humanity’s oldest enemies, as we have all seen over the pandemic. But our new research suggests we can exploit some of the features that make them challenging adversaries to infect and kill cancer cells,'' said Professor Kristian Helin, chief executive of The Institute of Cancer Research, London.

After finding positive changes in the tumour’s “immune microenvironment,” scientists found that injections led to more immune cells in the area.

Hoping to move to bigger trials, research has been presented at the 2022 European Society for Medical Oncology Congress (ESMO).

''Our study shows that a genetically engineered, cancer-killing virus can deliver a one-two punch against tumours – directly destroying cancer cells from within while also calling in the immune system against them,'' said Study leader Kevin Harrington, professor of biological cancer therapies at The Institute of Cancer Research. 
&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

A new study has revealed that a genetically-engineered herpes treatment eradicates tumours in terminally-ill cancer patients. Rallying the immune system, the new therapy infects and destroys cancer cells, according to scientists at the Institute for Cancer Research in London.

A new study has revealed that a genetically-engineered herpes treatment eradicates tumours in terminally-ill cancer patients. Rallying the immune system, the new therapy infects and destroys cancer cells, according to scientists at the Institute for Cancer Research in London. Shrinking the tumours of one-quarter of patients with end-of-life cancer, early trials to assess the safety of the therapy were successful. Causing cancer cells to burst from within, the genetically engineered virus is injected directly into the tumour where it multiplies. Giving the body more of a chance to fight off cancer, it blocks a protein called CTLA-4 which dials down the immune system. Also read | A severe Victorian disease is making a comeback in UK, warns NHS. Read all about the symptoms and more ''Viruses are one of humanity’s oldest enemies, as we have all seen over the pandemic. But our new research suggests we can exploit some of the features that make them challenging adversaries to infect and kill cancer cells,'' said Professor Kristian Helin, chief executive of The Institute of Cancer Research, London. After finding positive changes in the tumour’s “immune microenvironment,” scientists found that injections led to more immune cells in the area. Hoping to move to bigger trials, research has been presented at the 2022 European Society for Medical Oncology Congress (ESMO). ''Our study shows that a genetically engineered, cancer-killing virus can deliver a one-two punch against tumours – directly destroying cancer cells from within while also calling in the immune system against them,'' said Study leader Kevin Harrington, professor of biological cancer therapies at The Institute of Cancer Research. Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Study shows herpes treatment eradicates tumours in terminally-ill cancer patients

Can Aspirin increase survival rates in cancer patients? Can the drug also prevent the spread of cancer to other parts of the body? Studies suggest so. Listen in to Priyanka Sharma.

Gravitas: Studies suggest Aspirin can increase survival rates in cancer patients

A research has revealed that taking the over-the-counter painkiller aspirin has potential benefits that outweigh the side effects. Researchers at Cardiff University reviewed the earlier studies of aspirin and cancer and published the findings in the journal Open Biology.

As per Times UK, they found direct evidence that patients who took aspirin survived longer and also presented the biological mechanisms that might explain the effect. These include “reductions by aspirin in cancer-related inflammation, abnormal clotting and abnormal blood vessel growth, and enhancement in cellular repair”.

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The researchers said that several studies suggest that aspirin could boost survival chances by about 20 per cent across different cancers. Some studies also point out a reduction of about a third in the spread of cancer.

However, they stressed the importance of further evidence since different trials threw up varied results. They said&nbsp;that there “appears to be an impressive harmony between the biological effects of aspirin on mechanisms relevant to cancer, and the effects of aspirin on clinical outcomes in cancer”.

Going by the results, they have deemed aspirin as a "relatively safe drug", especially among cancer patients.

Sam Godfrey, head of research information at Cancer Research UK, told Times UK, “This review examines what we know so far about the fascinating effect that aspirin has on the biology of cancer and how it might be helping to increase survival and prevent cancer from spreading to other parts of the body. But we still need more clinical research to establish how effective aspirin is, what patients will benefit from taking the drug and how much they should take and for how long."

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“To help answer some of these questions, Cancer Research UK is funding Add-Aspirin, the world’s largest clinical trial studying if aspirin can prevent certain types of cancer from coming back.”

Around 11,000 patients from the UK, Ireland and India are expected to participate&nbsp;in the new trial. These patients would have undergone treatment for early-stage cancer to see whether regular aspirin use can prevent recurrence or death.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A research has revealed that taking the over-the-counter painkiller aspirin has potential benefits that outweigh the side effects. Researchers at Cardiff University reviewed the earlier studies of aspirin and cancer and published the findings in the journal Open Biology.

A research has revealed that taking the over-the-counter painkiller aspirin has potential benefits that outweigh the side effects. Researchers at Cardiff University reviewed the earlier studies of aspirin and cancer and published the findings in the journal Open Biology. As per Times UK, they found direct evidence that patients who took aspirin survived longer and also presented the biological mechanisms that might explain the effect. These include “reductions by aspirin in cancer-related inflammation, abnormal clotting and abnormal blood vessel growth, and enhancement in cellular repair”. Also Read | Scientists develop microrobots that surround a cancer cell and kill it The researchers said that several studies suggest that aspirin could boost survival chances by about 20 per cent across different cancers. Some studies also point out a reduction of about a third in the spread of cancer. However, they stressed the importance of further evidence since different trials threw up varied results. They said that there “appears to be an impressive harmony between the biological effects of aspirin on mechanisms relevant to cancer, and the effects of aspirin on clinical outcomes in cancer”. Going by the results, they have deemed aspirin as a "relatively safe drug", especially among cancer patients. Sam Godfrey, head of research information at Cancer Research UK, told Times UK, “This review examines what we know so far about the fascinating effect that aspirin has on the biology of cancer and how it might be helping to increase survival and prevent cancer from spreading to other parts of the body. But we still need more clinical research to establish how effective aspirin is, what patients will benefit from taking the drug and how much they should take and for how long." Also Read | This single blood test can detect 50 types of cancer before symptoms emerge “To help answer some of these questions, Cancer Research UK is funding Add-Aspirin, the world’s largest clinical trial studying if aspirin can prevent certain types of cancer from coming back.” Around 11,000 patients from the UK, Ireland and India are expected to participate in the new trial. These patients would have undergone treatment for early-stage cancer to see whether regular aspirin use can prevent recurrence or death. (With inputs from agencies)

Aspirin found to boost survival rate in cancer patients in new study

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