NHS GREATER GLASGOW AND CLYDE

Novel Radiotherapy Approach Helps Rectal Cancer Patients Avoid Permanent Stoma Surgery

3 months ago

• A groundbreaking clinical trial demonstrates that contact X-ray brachytherapy combined with chemo-radiotherapy increases rectum preservation rates from 56% to 79% in rectal cancer patients. • The innovative treatment approach allows doctors to target tumors directly while protecting healthy tissue, significantly improving patients' quality of life by avoiding permanent stoma surgery. • Five-year global trial involving 141 patients proves successful, with one participant achieving complete cancer remission through three rounds of brachytherapy followed by standard treatment.

GLP-1 Receptor Agonists Linked to Serious Side Effects and Regulatory Scrutiny

6 months ago

• A recent death in the UK has been linked to tirzepatide (Mounjaro), raising concerns about the safety of GLP-1 receptor agonists. • Online pharmacies selling weight-loss medications face increased regulatory scrutiny due to breaches in safety standards. • Clinical trials show GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy reduce cardiovascular events, but side effects and individual risks must be considered. • Experts caution against viewing GLP-1 drugs as a "silver bullet" for obesity, emphasizing the need for careful patient selection and monitoring.