Asian Pacific Journal Of Cancer Prevention[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Cytotoxic and Apoptotic Effects of Compounds Isolated from Atalantia monophylla Peels on Human Cancer Cell Lines.
Sudta P, Yahuafai J, Prapasanobol V … +1 more , Wangchuk P
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793665 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to extract and purify compounds from traditional Thai medicine, A. monophylla peels, and evaluate their antiproliferative and mechanistic effects. METHODS: Peels of A. monophylla were extracte...
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to extract and purify compounds from traditional Thai medicine, A. monophylla peels, and evaluate their antiproliferative and mechanistic effects. METHODS: Peels of A. monophylla were extracted using various solvents. Compounds were isolated using column chromatography and preparative thin-layer chromatography. Structural elucidation was performed using spectroscopic techniques and by comparison with literature data. Antiproliferative activity was assessed using the MTT assay against several human cancer cell lines (MCF-7, HeLa S3, HepG2,HCT116) and normal Vero cells. Apoptosis and cell cycle arrest were evaluated using Hoechst 33342 staining and flow cytometry with annexin V/PI staining. RESULT: The acetone extract and its sub-fractions showed potent antiproliferative effects, particularly against MCF-7 breast cancer cells. In contrast, n-hexane and methanol extracts were less active. Bioactivity-guided fractionation yielded two benzoyl tyramine alkaloids: servarine palmitate (1) and acidissiminol epoxide (2), with the latter displaying the highest cytotoxicity. Mechanistic studies revealed hallmark apoptotic features, including membrane blebbing, chromatin condensation, nuclear fragmentation, apoptotic body formation, and loss of adhesion. Additionally, acidissiminol epoxide (2) induced G0/G1 cell cycle arrest, suggesting disruption of DNA synthesis and activation of apoptotic pathways. CONCLUSION: This study reports, for the first time, the isolation of tyramine alkaloid 2 from A. monophylla and its potent anticancer activity against breast cancer cells. These findings highlight its potential as a lead compound for the development of novel epoxide-containing anticancer agents.
Validation of the Tamil Version of the Taste and Smell Questionnaire for Assessing Sensory Dysfunction in Head and Neck Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemoradiotherapy.
Nikkesh RT, Selvaraj JL, Suresh VP … +1 more , Sivagnanapandian D
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793664 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Chemoradiation-induced sensory dysfunction, including altered taste and smell, is a common yet underreported consequence of chemoradiotherapy (CRT) in patients with Head and Neck Cancer (HNC)...
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Chemoradiation-induced sensory dysfunction, including altered taste and smell, is a common yet underreported consequence of chemoradiotherapy (CRT) in patients with Head and Neck Cancer (HNC). A culturally and linguistically adapted tool in Tamil is crucial for the symptom assessment and supportive care among Tamil-speaking populations. The Taste and Smell Questionnaire (TSQ) is a self-reported measure that facilitates the evaluation of taste and smell difficulties in patients with HNC. This study aimed to translate and validate the Tamil version of the TSQ (TSQ-T), and to evaluate self-perceived taste and smell disturbances in healthy adults and HNC patients after CRT. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted in two phases: (i) forward-backward translation of the TSQ, expert panel review, pilot testing, and cognitive debriefing; and (ii) administration of the finalized Tamil TSQ to 264 HNC patients and 75 healthy controls. Internal consistency, known-group comparisons, and symptom correlations with clinical aspects were analyzed. RESULTS: The Tamil TSQ demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's α = .98). Patients with HNC reported significantly higher taste (M = 3.38) and smell (M = 1.19) scores compared with healthy controls (M = 0.40 and M = 0.03, respectively; p < 0.001). Symptom severity was greatest within the first three months following CRT and declined gradually with longer post-CRT duration. When compared across cancer sites, patients with tongue cancer reported the highest TSQ scores. The treatment modality (surgery vs. CRT) did not yield significant differences in scores. Patients who reported greater swallowing difficulties also reported higher taste and smell symptom scores, supporting the association between dysphagia and chemosensory changes. CONCLUSION: The Tamil version of the TSQ is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing taste and smell dysfunction in HNC patients.
Incidence and Risk Factors of Helicobacter pylori Infections Among Asymptomatic Pakistani Tobacco Consumers.
Zulfiqar R, Bukhari S, Dutta S … +3 more , Khan IM, Hassan T, Maniago J
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793663 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the incidence of H. pylori infection and its associated risk factors among asymptomatic Pakistani tobacco users, with the goal of informing targeted screening and prevention strategi...
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the incidence of H. pylori infection and its associated risk factors among asymptomatic Pakistani tobacco users, with the goal of informing targeted screening and prevention strategies. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2024 to February 2025 in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. A total of 129 asymptomatic adults (aged ≥25), reporting regular tobacco use, were enrolled through non-probability purposive sampling from outpatient and community health settings. Non-probability purposive sampling was used to recruit participants who met the study's eligibility criteria. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and H. pylori stool antigen testing. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression were used for analysis. RESULTS: The mean age of participants was 38.6 ± 9.2 years, with 68.2% being male. Overall, 34.1% had used tobacco for over five years, and 81.4% reported daily use. H. pylori infection was significantly associated with prolonged tobacco use (>5 years; p = 0.01), use of smokeless tobacco (p = 0.02), consumption of untreated water (p = 0.02), shared sanitation (p < 0.001), and family history of gastric disorders (p < 0.001). Logistic regression revealed that tobacco use >5 years (AOR = 2.34), untreated water (AOR = 1.96), shared sanitation (AOR = 1.89), and family history of gastrointestinal disorders (AOR = 2.67) were independent predictors of infection. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates a high prevalence of H. pylori infection among asymptomatic tobacco users in Pakistan. Key modifiable risk factors, including prolonged tobacco use and environmental exposures, highlight the need for integrated public health interventions focusing on tobacco cessation, sanitation improvement, and targeted screening.
Bone Cancer Cell Prediction Using an Enhanced Deep Learning Algorithm with an Optimization Technique.
Kakarla M, Raju KP
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793662 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Bone cancer is a very serious disorder that can be fatal for many people. A reliable detection and classification system is required for early-stage bone cancer diagnosis. Traditional manual approaches are tim...
OBJECTIVE: Bone cancer is a very serious disorder that can be fatal for many people. A reliable detection and classification system is required for early-stage bone cancer diagnosis. Traditional manual approaches are time-consuming and need specific skills, thus the creation of an automated system for detecting and classifying malignant and healthy bone tissue is critical. Cancerous bone tissue often has a different texture than healthy tissue in the affected location. Despite initially using Support Vector Machine and Edge Detection methods to improve outcomes, we only reached 0.92% accuracy. As a result, moving to deep learning is important for improved performance. Our strategy will begin with feature extraction, followed by the usage of the Cuckoo Search optimization algorithm. METHODS: The methodology emphasizes rigorous data preprocessing, model evaluation using standard metrics, and clinical integration for real-world application. It aims to develop a machine learning (ML)-driven tool for bone cancer detection by utilizing a combination of deep learning (DL) models and optimization methods. It includes enhancing detection accuracy by integrating Cuckoo Search Modified Hill Climbing (CS-MHC) optimization with ResNet for improved image classification, optimizing model performance through CSO for better feature selection and faster convergence, comparing the CS-MHC ResNet model with traditional models like VGG-16, Inception, and Xception to improve accuracy, precision, and recall, creating a clinically applicable model for early bone cancer diagnosis and contributing to medical image analysis by combining hybrid optimization and deep learning techniques. The CNN will serve as the primary model for image classification, while Cuckoo Search Optimization will enhance feature selection and hyperparameter tuning. RESULTS: CS-MHC ResNet demonstrated superior performance over other models in classification accuracy (above 90%), sensitivity (around 85%), precision (above 88%), and F-measure (approximately 86%). Other models (VGG-16, Xception, Inception) showed lower performance, indicating that the integration of CSO with ResNet enhances feature selection and improves the method's ability to classify bone cancer more effectively. These outcomes indicate that the proposed CS-MHC ResNet method offers significant improvements in the automated detection of bone cancer, supporting its potential for clinical use in diagnostic systems. CONCLUSION: The CS-MHC ResNet model combines Cuckoo Search Optimization (CSO) with ResNet for automated bone cancer detection. The model outperformed traditional deep learning architectures like VGG-16, Xception, and Inception in accuracy, sensitivity, precision, and F-measure. Key findings include enhanced model performance, improved feature selection via CSO, and faster convergence. The CS-MHC ResNet model shows promise for clinical applications, offering a more efficient and reliable tool for bone cancer detection. Future research will concentrate on larger multi-center datasets and simpler designs to improve resilience and applicability.
Molecular Insights into the Immunomodulating and Anticancer Mechanisms of Eremina desertorum (Forsskal, 1775) Mucin in HepG-2 and CACO-2 Cells.
Ibrahim AM, Atta SA, Megahed FAK
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793661 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: The aim of the present research is to deeply investigate the cytotoxic and immunomodulatory activities of the mucin extracted from Ereminia desertorum snails´ mucus against two tumor cell lines; human hepatoc...
BACKGROUND: The aim of the present research is to deeply investigate the cytotoxic and immunomodulatory activities of the mucin extracted from Ereminia desertorum snails´ mucus against two tumor cell lines; human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG-2) and human colon adenocarcinoma (CACO-2) cells. Both cell lines were treated with Ereminia desertorum snails´ mucin and the anti-cancer potential of the mucin was evaluated by the crystal violet assay test and gene expression analysis using reverse transcription- polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). RESULTS: The extract showed cytotoxic activity on both tumor cell lines however it was more pronounced CACO-2 (IC50: 0.20±0.05 (µl/ml)) than HepG-2 (0.103±0.019 (µl/ml)). Gene expression levels (2-ddct) of the transforming growth factor (TGF) β1, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α showed increased expression in HepG-2 and CACO-2 cells treated with the mucin extract by (18.38 and 19.14) and (14.38 and 10.69) folds respectively. Apoptotic gene expression (Cas3 and Cas9) in HepG-2 and CACO-2 cells showed increased expression after treatment with the mucin extract by (16.14, and 11.00) and (23.58 and 12.50) folds, respectively. Gene expression levels (2-ddct) of Oncogenic markers (c-myc, Ras, β-catenin, and EGFR) in HepG-2 and CACO-2 cells treated with mucin extract decreased by (0.025, 0.025, 0.047 and 0.040) and (0.064, 0.183, 0.111 and 0.26) folds, respectively. CONCLUSION: The present study highlighted the anticancer and immunomodulatory activities of the mucin extracted from E. desertorum snails´ mucus. This could attract attention to such natural compound as a possible source of a therapeutic product against liver and colon cancers.
Mobile Health Interventions for Adolescent Smoking Prevention: A Scoping Review.
Reskiaddin O, Lubis IK, Agustiningsih D … +1 more , Prabandari YS
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793660 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Smoking behavior among adolescents is a significant global public health concern. Despite the implementation of numerous conventional interventions, their effectiveness remains variable, highlighting the need...
BACKGROUND: Smoking behavior among adolescents is a significant global public health concern. Despite the implementation of numerous conventional interventions, their effectiveness remains variable, highlighting the need for more adaptive and individualized strategies. In this context, technological innovations via mobile health (mHealth) have emerged as a potentially effective approach for smoking prevention. However, evidence regarding their implementation, effectiveness, and impact specifically among adolescents remains scarce and fragmented. OBJECTIVE: To identify the types, forms of implementation, and effects of mHealth interventions aimed at preventing smoking behavior among adolescents. METHODS: A scoping review was conducted following the JBI and PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Articles were selected based on eligible criteria using the electronic databases PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. Eligible studies included experimental quantitative studies utilizing mHealth interventions targeting adolescents aged 13-18 years. Data processing was conducted using Rayyan.ai. The data were narratively analyzed and presented in tabular form. RESULT: The literature search identified 1,028 records, of which 16 studies met the eligibility criteria and were subsequently included in the analysis. The mHealth interventions identified included gamification-based apps, text messaging (SMS), and educational chatbots. Intervention platforms varied, ranging from smartphone applications to SMS-based programs. Most studies indicated that mHealth was effective in preventing smoking initiation, increasing risk perception, and reducing smoking intensity, although results varied by gender, age, and participants' social backgrounds. CONCLUSION: mHealth interventions show promise as innovative strategies for smoking prevention among adolescents. Integrating mHealth into school and community programs, as well as tailoring interventions to local social and cultural contexts, is key to enhancing program effectiveness and reach. Further research is needed to evaluate long-term impacts and effectiveness across diverse populations.
Pertuzumab and Pathological Complete Response in Early HER2+ Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Real-World Studies.
Matsas S, Zembala J, Ruiz Simões A … +3 more , Giuliani Schmitt L, Abdou Y, Del Giglio A
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793659 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive (HER2+) breast cancer (BC) is an aggressive subtype that is associated with poorer outcomes. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy combined with trastuzumab has significan...
BACKGROUND: Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive (HER2+) breast cancer (BC) is an aggressive subtype that is associated with poorer outcomes. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy combined with trastuzumab has significantly improved prognosis, and the addition of pertuzumab has further enhanced the treatment response. Pathological complete response (pCR) is a reliable surrogate marker of long-term outcomes, and its achievement can inform surgical and adjuvant therapy decisions. While randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have demonstrated the benefits of dual HER2 blockade, real-world evidence (RWE) is critical for assessing treatment effectiveness in broader, more diverse populations. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of dual HER2 blockade with pertuzumab and trastuzumab compared to single-agent trastuzumab on pCR rates in early-stage HER2+ breast cancer using real-world data. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted using the PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases from inception to February 28, 2025. Eligible studies were retrospective or prospective real-world investigations comparing neoadjuvant chemotherapy with trastuzumab alone versus trastuzumab plus pertuzumab. Data were extracted independently by two reviewers. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) for pCR, along with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), were calculated. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. RESULTS: Eighteen studies involving 8,651 patients met the inclusion criteria. The pooled odds ratio (OR) showed significantly higher pCR rates with dual HER2 blockade (OR: 1.81; 95% CI: 1.56-2.09), with no observed heterogeneity (I² = 0%). Subgroup analyses confirmed consistent findings across geographic regions and study characteristics. Publication bias was low, as supported by Egger's test (p = 0.37). CONCLUSION: In real-world settings, adding pertuzumab to neoadjuvant therapy significantly improves pCR rates in early-stage HER2+ breast cancer, aligning with RCT evidence. These findings support the broader adoption of dual HER2 blockade and highlight the need for further prospective real-world studies to refine treatment strategies for specific patient subgroups.
Evaluating the Role of VELscope in Oral Cancer and Pre-Cancer Screening: A Scoping Review.
Samantaray K, Lohiya A, Kumar T … +5 more , Singh RK, Kumar S, Khanna H, Sachin O, Menon G
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793658 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Oral cancer continues to be a major public health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where late-stage diagnosis significantly contributes to high mortality. The Visually Enhanc...
BACKGROUND: Oral cancer continues to be a major public health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where late-stage diagnosis significantly contributes to high mortality. The Visually Enhanced Lesion Scope (VELscope), which uses tissue autofluorescence technology, aids in the identification of suspicious oral lesions. The objective of this scoping review is to systematically map the existing evidence on the effectiveness of VELscope in detecting pre-malignant and malignant oral lesions. METHODS: This scoping review was carried out following the Arksey and O'Malley framework and JBI methodology and was reported per PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Four databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Library) were searched between January 2010 - December 2024. A total of 27 studies involving 3,875 participants were included, assessing VELscope's diagnostic accuracy either alone or in combination with other tools. RESULTS: VELscope demonstrated high sensitivity (>75%) in 20 studies, with values ranging from 30% to 100%. However, specificity varied more widely (15%-100%), with 16 studies reporting specificity of less than 75%. The diagnostic accuracy of VELscope was significantly influenced by clinicians' training and experience. While VELscope effectively enhanced lesion visualization and guided biopsy site selection, its low specificity often resulted in false positives and unnecessary referrals. Diagnostic accuracy also improved significantly when it was used in combination with conventional oral examination (COE), the toluidine blue test (TBT), or Raman spectroscopy. CONCLUSION: VELscope serves as a valuable adjunctive tool to COE, improving lesion detection in high-risk populations. However, its standalone diagnostic use is limited due to low specificity. Targeted clinician training and integration into multimodal screening protocols are essential to optimize its clinical utility. Further studies are warranted to assess its clinical effectiveness in community-based cancer screening among high-risk population with behavioural risk factors, as well as to conduct cost-effectiveness analyses.
Molecular Mechanisms of FAT Atypical Cadherin 1 (FAT1), the Hippo Pathway, and the Yes-Associated Protein (YAP) Signaling Pathways in Some Cancers.
Osei Saahene R, Barnes P, Asante DB … +2 more , Famieh SA, Agbo E
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793657 · Publisher ↗
UNLABELLED: Introuduction: FAT atypical cadherin 1 (FAT1), the Hippo pathway and Yes-associated protein (YAP) signaling play significant roles in cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Dysregulation of these...
UNLABELLED: Introuduction: FAT atypical cadherin 1 (FAT1), the Hippo pathway and Yes-associated protein (YAP) signaling play significant roles in cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Dysregulation of these pathways contributes to tumorigenesis in multiple cancers, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and breast cancer. METHODS: The FAT atypical cadherin 1 (FAT1) gene is an ortholog of the Drosophila fat gene, which encodes the protocadherin FAT1. FAT1 is one of the most mutated genes and is therefore considered to be an emerging cancer biomarker and a potential therapeutic target for novel therapies. However, the molecular mechanisms of the FAT1 signaling pathways it mediates has not been fully elucidated. RESULTS: The Hippo-YAP pathway is considered a crucial oncogenic pathway in multiple tumors. The expression of genes controlled by the Hippo downstream transcriptional coactivators Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP) is widely deregulated in different human cancers, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). CONCLUSION: This review discusses the FAT1, Hippo and Yap genes, with a focus on their mutations and expression levels, and their impact on signaling pathways and mechanisms in various types of cancer.
Standardizing Cost-Effectiveness Evidence for Cancer Prevention: A Case Study Analysis of HPV Vaccination.
Mosavi Jarrahi A, Rajaie S, Azari S … +1 more , Karimi F
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793656 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide, with over 85% of deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) where resources are scarce. A fundamental challenge in glob...
BACKGROUND: Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide, with over 85% of deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) where resources are scarce. A fundamental challenge in global health policy is comparing economic evaluations across these diverse settings, as traditional Incremental Cost-Effectiveness Ratios (ICERs) are constrained by different currencies, price levels, and willingness-to-pay (WTP) thresholds. To address this, we propose a standardized Cost-Effectiveness Ratio (CER), calculated as the ICER divided by the country-specific WTP threshold, creating a unitless, income-adjusted metric. METHODS: We conducted a rapid review of HPV vaccination economic evaluations published between 2022 and 2025. Employing a case study approach, we extracted original ICERs and WTP thresholds from diverse countries. All monetary values were converted to 2024 US Dollars using transparent exchange rates, with a critical handling of the Thailand WTP threshold to ensure it was based on the original Thai Baht value from the publication before conversion to USD to ensure analytical integrity. The CER was then calculated to facilitate direct comparison. RESULTS: The CER provides a powerful lens for interpreting value. Our case study reveals that a vaccination strategy in China (CER=0.0002) is dramatically more favourable than one in Japan (CER=0.20), a finding obscured by absolute costs. Furthermore, the CER shows that programs in Thailand and the Philippines offer over twice the relative economic value of Japan's program. It also enables nuanced comparisons, such as between single-dose and two-dose regimens, revealing comparable value for money in lower-middle-income settings. CONCLUSION: The CER is a simple yet powerful tool that transforms incomparable data into a standardized metric. For international funders like Gavi and national policymakers, it provides robust evidence to prioritize investments in LMICs, where the return on investment is highest. By reframing the economic question from "can we afford it?" to "how can we afford not to?", the CER promotes health equity and strengthens the case for accelerating global HPV vaccination efforts.
Salivary Malondialdehyde as a Marker of Oxidative Stress in Tobacco Chewers, with and without Oral Submucous Fibrosis: A Comparative, Cross-Sectional Biochemical Study.
Waikhom S, Rathore A, Yadav A … +3 more , Tikoo P, Uma Devi A, Saba Q
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793655 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate and compare salivary Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in tobacco chewers with and without oral submucous fibrosis, and healthy individuals, and correlate the levels with stages of oral...
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate and compare salivary Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in tobacco chewers with and without oral submucous fibrosis, and healthy individuals, and correlate the levels with stages of oral submucous fibrosis. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted in ITS-Centre for Dental Studies and Research, Ghaziabad, India which included 60 subjects divided into three groups: Group A: Healthy controls (n=20) Group B: Tobacco chewers with clinically and histopathologically confirmed Oral Submucous Fibrosis (OSMF) (n=20) Group C: Tobacco chewers without OSMF (n=20). Unstimulated whole saliva was collected, centrifuged, and stored at -20°C. Salivary MDA levels were estimated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). RESULTS: Salivary MDA levels were significantly higher in oral submucous fibrosis patients (mean ± SD: 49.57 ± 25.91 mmol/L) compared to tobacco chewers without oral submucous fibrosis (21.21 ± 7.76 mmol/L) and healthy individuals (10.96 ± 2.90 mmol/L),with p < 0.001. A statistically significant positive correlation was found between MDA levels and stages of oral submucous fibrosis, indicating increased oxidative stress with disease progression. CONCLUSION: Elevated salivary MDA levels in oral submucous fibrosis patients reflect increased oxidative stress and its correlation with disease severity.
Breath Aldehyde Profiling using PFBHA-GC/MS as a Prostate Cancer Biomarker.
Sasaki Y, Matsumura T, Shitanaka Y … +1 more , Urita Y
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793654 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: While PSA screening reduces prostate cancer (PCa) mortality, it is associated with overdiagnosis and unnecessary biopsies. Breathomics presents a painless, repeatable adjunct method, provided that robust vola...
BACKGROUND: While PSA screening reduces prostate cancer (PCa) mortality, it is associated with overdiagnosis and unnecessary biopsies. Breathomics presents a painless, repeatable adjunct method, provided that robust volatile biomarkers can be reliably identified. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether targeted quantification of 12 biologically plausible aldehydes in end-tidal breath can differentiate histologically confirmed PCa from biopsy-negative or low-PSA control subjects. METHODS: In a prospective exploratory study at Toho University Omori Medical Center (Tokyo, Japan), we enrolled men aged ≥50 years between 1 September 2020 and 31 August 2023. Breath samples, obtained after an overnight fast, were derivatised with O-(2,3,4,5,6-pentafluorobenzyl)-hydroxylamine and analysed using conventional quadrupole GC/MS. Limits of detection ranged from 0.3 to 1.1 ng. Non-detects were addressed using LOD/2 substitution and Tobit left-censored regression. Group differences were assessed using two-tailed Wilcoxon or Fisher's exact tests (α = 0.05). Ethics approval: M16243 / M20229; informed consent was obtained. RESULTS: Thirty-three men were analysed (PCa = 22; controls = 11). Only formaldehyde and acetaldehyde were quantifiable in ≥85% of samples. Median concentrations did not differ (formaldehyde: 3.09 [2.15-5.35] vs. 5.85 [2.72-7.36] ng , p = 0.181; acetaldehyde: 7.47 [5.36-11.73] vs. 7.80 [6.70-14.32] ng, p = 0.456). The exploratory formaldehyde-to-acetaldehyde ratio was likewise non-discriminatory (p = 0.87). The remaining ten aldehydes showed detection rates ≤45.5% and no significant group differences in Tobit modelling. CONCLUSIONS: Single-compound aldehyde profiling with PFBHA-GC/MS failed to differentiate PCa from controls, primarily due to low analyte detection rates and minimal between-group contrasts. Enhanced-sensitivity platforms (e.g., GC×GC-HRMS or MEMS-based pre-concentrators) and multi-component VOC signatures coupled with rigorous control of smoking and ambient confounders are needed before breath testing can contribute meaningfully to prostate cancer screening.
Impact of Treatment Related Neutropenia on Response to Palbociclib in Metastatic Hormone Positive, her2neu Negative Breast Cancer.
Al Dandan A, Alamer M, Alsalman AA … +6 more , Al Hassan M, Al Mutair A, Nawi L, Nesrat L, Aloub M, Younis SR
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Feb · PMID 41660936 · Publisher ↗
UNLABELLED: Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK4/6) inhibitors play an important role in the management of metastatic hormone receptor-positive (HR+) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2-) breast cancer....
UNLABELLED: Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK4/6) inhibitors play an important role in the management of metastatic hormone receptor-positive (HR+) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2-) breast cancer. They act by inhibiting the proteins CDK4 and CDK6, which are implicated in the advancement of the cell cycle and unchecked cell proliferation- the primary causes of the development of cancer. The blocking of these proteins can slow or stop the growth of cancer cells. Palbociclib is a highly active substance in the management of hormone positive, her2neu negative metastatic breast cancer [1]. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted at King Fahad Hospital (Al Jaber Oncology Centre). Sixty-four metastatic, hormone-positive, HER2neu-negative breast cancer cases who received. Palbociclib were included in the study and followed up for a median time of 30 months. RESULTS: Our study indicated that 58 patients were treated with Palbociclib combined with letrozole (90.6%), whereas 6 patients (9.4%) were treated with Palbociclib along with fulvestrant. Neutropenia induced by Palbociclib occurred in 87.5% of cases, whereas 12.5% of cases did not experience neutropenia (8 cases). Regarding neutropenia, our study showed that 32.1% of the participants experienced grade I neutropenia, while 58.9% had grades II, and 8.9% had grade III neutropenia. A dose reduction of Palbociclib was implemented in 19 cases (29.7%) throughout the entire treatment duration. With the adjustment of the dose of Palbociclib, there was no statistically significant difference between the different doses. The 30-month PFS rate was 75% with the dose of 100 mg, 90.9% with 75 mg, and 97.2% with the dose of 125 mg. Median PFS was not reached. A total of 5 deaths were noted in the entire study group. There was no statistically significant difference in overall survival based on neutropenia grades. CONCLUSION: Neutropenia induced by palbociclib and subsequent dose reduction did not impact the disease outcome.
Prognostic Stratification of Highly Differentiated Thyroid Cancer Based on Molecular Genetic Studies.
Sloneva N, Kaidarova D, Kaibarov M
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Feb · PMID 41660935 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: The aim of this literature review was to identify the critical role of molecular-genetic and epigenetic factors in predicting the course of differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC), to improve diagnostic and th...
BACKGROUND: The aim of this literature review was to identify the critical role of molecular-genetic and epigenetic factors in predicting the course of differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC), to improve diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for this disease. METHODS: Analytical and comparative review methods of publications available in the databases of Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed were employed. RESULTS: The results demonstrated that the presence of specific mutations and epigenetic modifications significantly influenced the likelihood of recurrence, metastatic potential, and tumour sensitivity to conservative treatment, including radioactive iodine therapy. Mutations in the B-Raf kinase family protein, telomerase reverse transcriptase, rat sarcoma genes, and rearranged during transfection/papillary thyroid carcinoma rearrangements were shown to be associated with an increased risk of recurrence, metastatic activity, and reduced efficacy of radioiodine treatment. Epigenetic markers such as promoter methylation of tumour suppressor genes, global hypomethylation, and microRNAs (miR-146b, miR-221, miR-375) emerged as promising predictors of aggressive disease progression. The review outcomes indicate that a personalized approach based on identifying the molecular profile of the tumour allows for more accurate risk assessment of adverse outcomes and determination of prospects for targeted therapy. CONCLUSION: The practical significance of this work lies in the possibility of considering the identified genomic and epigenomic features when choosing surgical intervention and adjuvant therapy, thereby increasing the chances for long-term remission. Additionally, it emphasizes the standardization of analytical methods and the development of a unified system for evaluating the combined genetic alterations, which could enhance the quality of prognostic stratification and more effectively tailor treatment strategies.
Sex Differences in Gastric Cancer Mortality in Ecuador: A Joinpoint Regression Analysis.
Torres-Roman JS, Simbaña-Rivera K, Challapa-Mamani MR … +5 more , Guerrero J, Guerrero González JAA, Poterico JA, Ybaseta-Medina J, De La Cruz-Ku G
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Feb · PMID 41660934 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Gastric cancer (GC) remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. In Ecuador, GC was the primary cause of cancer-related deaths until 2013. Despite a general decline in GC mortality, signific...
BACKGROUND: Gastric cancer (GC) remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. In Ecuador, GC was the primary cause of cancer-related deaths until 2013. Despite a general decline in GC mortality, significant regional and sex-based disparities persist. This study aimes to analyze trends in GC mortality by sex from 2004 to 2021 using Joinpoint regression analysis. METHODS: We analyzed GC mortality data from the National Institute of Statistics and Censuses (INEC) for the period 2004-2021. Age-standardized mortality rates (ASMR) were calculated using the SEGI world standard population. Joinpoint regression was applied to estimate the annual percentage change (APC) in mortality trends. Additionally, we examined regional differences and identified provinces with the highest mortality rates based on the average from 2017-2021. RESULTS: GC mortality rates declined nationally, with an annual decrease of 1.9% in men and 2.2% in women. However, significant regional disparities were observed. In the Coastal region, mortality rates among men showed no significant decline, while the rates for women decreased by 2.4% annually. In the Highlands, GC mortality declined by 1.8% in men and 2.4% in women, while in the Amazon region, the decrease was 2.8% and 3.0% per year for men and women, respectively. The highest GC mortality rates in 2021 were observed in Bolívar, Santo Domingo, and Cotopaxi among men, and in Zamora Chinchipe, Cotopaxi, and Loja among women. Notably, while most provinces experienced a decline, Esmeraldas reported an increasing mortality trend of 2.8% annually from 2004 to 2021. CONCLUSIONS: Despite an overall decline in GC mortality in Ecuador, disparities persist across regions and between sexes. The faster decline in female mortality suggests potential differences in risk factors, healthcare access, or early detection efforts.
Four Gene Polymorphisms as Potential Predictive Biomarkers for Lung Cancer Susceptibility and Therapeutic Response in Iraqi Patients: A Pharmacogenetic Case-Control Study.
Orabiy MO, Chyad DH, Hoidy WH
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Feb · PMID 41660933 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, with limited genetic data available on Middle Eastern populations. This study investigated four novel genetic variants CYPHER rs783462...
BACKGROUND: Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, with limited genetic data available on Middle Eastern populations. This study investigated four novel genetic variants CYPHER rs7834621, METOX1 rs9284659, DRUGRES2 rs4521739, and TOXMET3 rs8823471 for their association with lung cancer risk and treatment response in Iraqi patients. METHODS: Between January 2024 and September 2024, we recruited 265 tissue-confirmed lung cancer patients and 310 healthy controls from Al-Diwaniyah Teaching Hospital. DNA was extracted from blood samples and genotyped using tetra-ARMS-PCR. Logistic regression was used to analyze variant-cancer risk associations. Pharmacogenetic analysis included 198 patients receiving trastuzumab, doxorubicin, paclitaxel, and cyclophosphamide chemotherapy, with response measured by RECIST criteria. RESULTS: All four genetic variants showed significant associations with lung cancer risk. The CYPHER rs7834621 GG genotype was associated with the highest disease risk (adjusted OR = 2.21, 95% CI: 1.31-3.73, p = 0.003). Allele frequencies were population-specific when compared to other cohorts. Pharmacogenetic analysis revealed treatment response associations, with DRUGRES2 rs4521739 TT genotype demonstrating superior response rates compared to CC genotype (68.4% vs 31.6%, p < 0.001). Haplotype analysis identified specific gene combinations that increased disease susceptibility. CONCLUSIONS: These novel SNPs are associated with both lung cancer risk and treatment response in Iraqi patients, potentially serving as biomarkers for risk stratification and personalized therapy guidance in this population.
Towards Precision Oncology: A Predictive Nomogram Incorporating DPD and MTHFR for CapeOX Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Colorectal Cancer.
Tahiya ECI, Lusikooy RE, Pattelongi I … +4 more , Raharjo W, Uwuratuw JA, Syarifuddin E, Aryanti C
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Feb · PMID 41660932 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent malignancies worldwide. Variability in patient response to fluoropyrimidine-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy remains a critical challenge. We aimed to develo...
BACKGROUND: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent malignancies worldwide. Variability in patient response to fluoropyrimidine-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy remains a critical challenge. We aimed to develop a nomogram that integrated dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) expression to predict CapeOX (Capecitabine-Oxaliplatin) neoadjuvant chemotherapy outcomes in colorectal cancer. METHODS: A prospective cohort of 36 advanced-stage CRC patients who received CapeOX neoadjuvant chemotherapy at Wahidin Sudirohusodo Hospital from 2024 to 2025 was analyzed. mRNA expression levels of TS, DPD, and MTHFR were measured in tissue and blood using quantitative RT-PCR. The chemotherapy response was evaluated by RECIST 1.1. Statistical analysis was performed to identify predictors of response, which were incorporated into a nomogram with bootstrap validation. RESULTS: Among the 36 patients with advanced colorectal cancer, response to CapeOX chemotherapy was observed in 50%. Blood-based gene profiling revealed that responders had significantly lower DPD and MTHFR expression compared with non-responders (both p<0.001), while TS showed no predictive relevance. A nomogram that integrated only blood DPD and MTHFR achieved outstanding discrimination (AUC 0.932, C-index 0.78) and demonstrated strong calibration, accurately predicting treatment response across probability ranges. These results established circulating DPD and MTHFR as powerful non-invasive biomarkers and validated the nomogram as a robust tool for individualized response prediction. CONCLUSION: A predictive nomogram that incorporated DPD and MTHFR has improved individualized estimation of CapeOX neoadjuvant chemotherapy response in CRC, supporting precision oncology strategies.<br />.
Smoking Cessation and Its Associated Factors among Adolescents Aged 13-15 Years Old in Vietnam: Findings from GYTS 2022.
Lai HTM, Pham DB, Luu MN … +8 more , Nguyen HTD, Luong KN, Phan HT, Duong AT, Nguyen LT, Le TTQ, Nguyen TTT, Kim GB
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Feb · PMID 41660931 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This study aims to analyze smoking cessation and its associated factors among adolescents aged 13-15 years in Vietnam. METHODS: The present study used data from the Vietnamese Global Youth Tobacco Survey in 20...
OBJECTIVE: This study aims to analyze smoking cessation and its associated factors among adolescents aged 13-15 years in Vietnam. METHODS: The present study used data from the Vietnamese Global Youth Tobacco Survey in 2022 and consisted of 454 adolescents aged 13-15 years old. Smoking cessation was defined as having not smoked in the past 30 days. A multivariable logistic regression model was conducted to identify the factors associated with smoking cessation among those adolescents. RESULTS: Among the participants, 76.9% had achieved smoking cessation, and the main type of tobacco smoked was cigarettes (84.5%). Factors significantly associated with smoking cessation included peer smoking, parental smoking status, tobacco-related knowledge, and exposure to anti-smoking information. Adolescents with only one smoking parent were more likely to quit than those whose parents did not smoke (OR = 2.48, 95% CI: 1.39-4.43). Similarly, greater tobacco knowledge (OR = 2.23, 95% CI: 1.30-3.83) and exposure to anti-smoking messages from two or more sources (OR = 2.49, 95% CI: 1.05-5.92) were positively associated with cessation. In contrast, adolescents with smoking friends had a significantly lower likelihood of cessation (OR = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.14-0.69). CONCLUSION: Economic status, peer influence, parental smoking, and cognitive factors namely tobacco-related knowledge and exposure to anti-smoking information were key determinants of smoking cessation among Vietnamese adolescents, with notable gender differences. These findings suggest the need for comprehensive tobacco control programs that address these factors to more effectively reduce smoking rates among this population.
Clinical Significance of the S348l Mutation in BCR-ABL as a Dominant Variant in Indonesian CML Patients Under Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Therapy: A Cohort Study.
Harjianti T, Pabbabari W, Benyamin F … +4 more , Saleh S, Minhajat R, Bayu D, Seweng A
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Feb · PMID 41660930 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is characterized by the translocation of chromosomes 9 and 22, resulting in the BCR-ABL fusion gene. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have markedly improved CML outcomes. Yet, r...
OBJECTIVE: Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is characterized by the translocation of chromosomes 9 and 22, resulting in the BCR-ABL fusion gene. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have markedly improved CML outcomes. Yet, resistance may develop due to mutations in the BCR-ABL kinase domain, particularly in the ATP-binding loop (P-loop), activation loop (A-loop), catalytic domain, and direct binding site. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between BCR-ABL kinase domain mutations, hematological response, and overall survival among CML patients receiving TKI therapy at Wahidin Sudirohusodo General Hospital, Makassar. METHODS: A prospective cohort study was conducted from March 2022 to July 2023 at the Hematology-Oncology outpatient clinic. Among 312 patients, 22 were classified as non-responders (no hematological response within three months) and 290 as responders. Forty-four patients (22 responders and 22 non-responders) underwent mutation analysis, and survival outcomes were compared. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS. RESULTS: Of the 44 patients, 11 harbored BCR-ABL mutations: S348L (n=6), T315I (n=4), and Y253F (n=1). All mutations were identified exclusively in the non-responder group. Mortality was significantly higher in non-responders than responders (p<0.05), and among non-responders with mutations compared to those without (p<0.01). Six-month survival rates were 65% for S348L, 50% for T315I, and 0% for Y253F, though survival differences between mutation types were not statistically significant (p=0,641). CONCLUSION: CML patients achieving early hematological response to TKI therapy had significantly better survival outcomes. In contrast, non-responders, particularly those harboring BCR-ABL kinase domain mutations, demonstrated poorer survival. The S348L mutation was the most common variant in this cohort. Early mutation detection may help guide therapeutic adjustments and improve outcomes in TKI-resistant CML.
Predictors of Secondary Traumatic Stress among Oncology Nurses in Palestine.
Lubbad A, Tlili MA, Amro N … +1 more , Missaoui N
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Feb · PMID 41660929 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: The work environment of oncology nurses exposes them to patient suffering, making them vulnerable to developing Secondary Traumatic Stress (STS). Most research on STS has been conducted in high-income count...
INTRODUCTION: The work environment of oncology nurses exposes them to patient suffering, making them vulnerable to developing Secondary Traumatic Stress (STS). Most research on STS has been conducted in high-income countries with stable healthcare systems, whereas little is known about its occurrence or risk factors in conflict-affected regions. This study aims to determine the prevalence of STS and identify its predictors among Palestinian oncology nurses who face unstable political conditions, insufficient resources, and limited mental health services. METHODS: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in ten oncology departments across hospitals in the West Bank and East Jerusalem between August and October 2024. A total of 293 participants completed a questionnaire assessing sociodemographic characteristics, STS, burnout, social and organizational support, and coping strategies. Data were analyzed using SPSS 27 with descriptive and inferential statistics, including regression analyses to identify significant predictors. RESULTS: The mean STS score was 3.13 ± 0.73, with the intrusion-related symptoms being most prominent (3.18 ± 0.94). STS levels varied significantly with age, working hours, and parental status. Regression analysis identified the number of children as a negative predictor of STS (B = -0.081, p = 0.004), while education level (B = 0.096, p = 0.034) and Personal Accomplishment (B = 0.015, p < 0.001) were positive predictors. Perceived Organizational Support remained a strong negative predictor (B = -0.109, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: This study provides the first evidence of STS among oncology nurses in a conflict-affected work environment. Strengthening organizational support and tailoring coping strategies to the local context may help reduce STS while promoting nurse well-being. These findings underscore the global relevance of integrating stress management programs into oncology education and workplace policies.
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