Wednesday, July 13, 2016

Novel/Unconventional Methods for Cancer Treatment (1)

In addition to the three classic/conventional methods of cancer treatment mentioned before, there are some novel and/or unconventional methods for cancer treatment that are worth mentioning. Some of these methods are being used, although not widely available, and some are still under clinical development and not yet available. Examples of these novel and/or unconventional methods as well as some novel strategies of cancer drugs are briefly described below.

1. Using Electromagnetic Waves to Treat Cancer

Electronic devices that emit some form of electromagnetic waves have been investigated for cancer treatment for a few years. Although there are a number of electronic devices under development as potential devices for cancer treatment, there is only one device recently approved by the FDA for brain tumor treatment. The device is called Optune (by Novacure), which includes a portable electric field generator, transducer arrays, and rechargeable batteries. The device works by creating alternating wave-like electric fields which interact with the dividing cancer cells, therefore, slow down the multiplication of cancer cells.

Clinical studies showed that, when used in combination with temozolomide (the most prescribed brain cancer drug), Optune was effective in treating glioblastoma (brain cancer) and significantly extended patients’ lives. 

All contents posted in this blog are extracted from the book "IS CANCER IN US", available at Amazon.

Disclaimer: This blog is written solely for informational purposes. It does not constitute the practice of any medical, nursing or other medical professional health care advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Although some commercial products, publications, and services are mentioned in this blog, the author does not endorse any specific products, publications, or services.  None of the contents in this blog represents or warrants that any of the products, publications, or services is appropriate or effective for their intended purposes. Readers shall always seek the advice of their physicians or other medical practitioners with any questions regarding personal health or medical conditions and shall be solely responsible for their own decisions and/or actions.  


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