Displaying publications 21 - 40 of 623 in total

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  1. Aminuddin F, Bahari MS, Zainuddin NA, Mohd Hanafiah AN, Mohd Hassan NZA
    Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2023 Feb 01;24(2):489-496.
    PMID: 36853297 DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2023.24.2.489
    BACKGROUND: Healthcare in Malaysia is largely publicly funded, however, cancer could still result in out-of-pocket (OOP) expenses, which may burden the affected patients. This is especially relevant to those in the lower-income group. This pilot study was conducted to estimate the direct and indirect costs of cancer and evaluate the feasibility of obtaining these costs information from the lower-income cancer patients undergoing treatment.

    METHODS: A cross-sectional study of patients with cancer was conducted in Hospital Kuala Lumpur between September and October 2020. Self-reported data from the patients were collected using face-to-face interviews. Detailed information about cancer-related OOP expenses including direct medical, direct non-medical, and productivity loss in addition to financial coping strategies were collected. Costs data were estimated and reported as average annual total costs per patient.

    RESULTS: The mean total cost of cancer was estimated at MYR 7955.39 (US$ 1893.46) per patient per year. The direct non-medical cost was the largest contributor to the annual cost, accounting for 46.1% of the total cost. This was followed by indirect costs and direct medical costs at 36.0% and 17.9% of the total annual costs, respectively. Supplemental food and transportation costs were the major contributors to the total non-medical costs. The most frequently used financial coping strategies were savings and financial support received from relatives and friends.

    CONCLUSION: This study showed that estimation of the total cost of cancer from the patient's perspective is feasible. Considering the significant impact of direct non-medical and indirect costs on the total costs, it is vital to conduct further exploration of its cost drivers and variations using a larger sample size.

  2. Arafat HM, Omar J, Shafii N, Naser IA, Al Laham NA, Muhamad R, et al.
    Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2023 Feb 01;24(2):717-723.
    PMID: 36853324 DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2023.24.2.717
    OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this research was to look at the relationship between insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) levels and the risk for breast cancer (BC) among women in the Gaza Strip.

    METHODS: This case-control study, which included 334 participants (112 women with BC as cases, and 222 women without BC as control), was conducted between January 2021 and August 2022. Research data for the cases were gathered at the Oncology Departments of the Gaza Strip's two hospitals, "Al- Shifa Hospital and Turkish Palestinian Friendship Hospital," as well as from the electronic records of the Screening Mammogram Unit at Al- Remal Clinic for controls. The information about the participants was gathered using a standardized questionnaire. The key variables related to BC were identified using multivariate logistic regression.

    RESULTS: According to multivariate logistic regression, participants' age was associated with an increase in the risk of BC (OR= 1.03; 95%CI, 1.007-1.060). There was an association between serum concentrations of fasting blood glucose (FBG) (OR= 1.027; 95% CI, 1.013-1.042), IGF-1 (OR= 1.010; 95% CI, 1.006-1.015), and the risk of BC, while there was no link between IGFBP-3 and the risk of BC. In an analysis of the risk according to menopausal status, premenopausal women were associated with an approximate 0.5 time decrease in risk of BC compared to women in post-menopause (OR= 0.428, 95% CI, 0.258, 0.710). Dairy product was also related to a decreased risk of BC.

    CONCLUSION: The results suggest that age, lower physical activity, increased levels of FBG, and IGF- 1 increase the BC risk among females in the Gaza Strip. Meanwhile, premenopausal women and dairy products are linked to a reduction in the risk of BC. Furthermore, no link was found between IGFBP-3 and BC risk. Improving early BC detection rates in the Gaza Strip necessitates preventative interventions and screening for BC in the public and healthcare sectors.

  3. Pei Yuin JL, Jia Shin JT, Jing CB, Mun TL, Balasubramaniam MA, Ibrahim Wahid DM
    Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2023 Feb 01;24(2):545-550.
    PMID: 36853303 DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2023.24.2.545
    INTRODUCTION: The current treatment options for localized prostate cancer are radical prostatectomy and external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) with stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) gaining interest as a treatment option compared to standard fractionation radiation therapy. This present study is a retrospective study evaluating the correlations between the biochemical efficacy, and treatment toxicity in SBRT for localized prostate cancer.

    METHODS: All organ-confined prostate cancer patients treated with SBRT from 2010 to 2018, at Beacon Hospital, Malaysia were included in this study. Patient demographics, dosimetric parameters, and disease information were retrospectively collected. The primary endpoint was biochemical recurrence-free survival assessed using the Phoenix definition (Nadir + 2 ng/mL). Toxicity outcomes were scored using the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group scale.

    RESULTS: Fourty-nine patients who met the inclusion criteria (5 low-, 13 intermediate- and 31 high-risk according to the D'amico Risk Classification) received SBRT. The most common dose regime was 34-35Gy in 5 fractions (n=18). Other dose regimes were 24Gy in 3 fractions and 25-33Gy in 5 fractions. Median follow-up was 45.4 months. The median pre-treatment prostate-specific antigen (PSA) was 11.22 ng/mL, which decreased to a median PSA of 0.1 ng/mL by 2 years post-treatment. Out of the 49 cases, only 1 case of biochemical recurrence occurred, yielding a 3- and 5-year overall survival of 100%, and a 3- and 5- year biochemical recurrence-free rate of 100% and 95.2%. Acute grade III urinary toxicities occurred in 1 (2%); whereas acute grade I urinary and rectal toxicities were seen in 22 (44.9%) and 7 (14.3%) patients respectively. Grade I and grade III late rectal toxicities occurred in 3 and 1 patients respectively, while 3 and 1 patient reported late grade I and III urethral stricture respectively.

    CONCLUSION: SBRT for clinically-localized and locally advanced prostate cancer provided promising outcomes with low toxicity and good biochemical control.

  4. Mohd Noor MNZ, Alauddin AS, Wong YH, Looi CY, Wong EH, Madhavan P, et al.
    Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2023 Jan 01;24(1):37-47.
    PMID: 36708550 DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2023.24.1.37
    BACKGROUND: Cancer remains a challenging target to cure, with present therapeutic methods unable to exhibit restorative outcomes without causing severe negative effects. Molecular hydrogen (H2) has been reported to be a promising adjunctive therapy for cancer treatment, having the capability to induce anti-proliferative, anti-oxidative, pro-apoptotic and anti-tumoural effects. This review summarises the findings from various articles on the mechanism, treatment outcomes, and overall effectiveness of H2 therapy on cancer management.

    METHODS: Using Cochrane, PubMed, and Google Scholar as the search engines, full-text articles in the scope of the study, written in English and within 10 years of publication were selected.

    RESULTS: Out of the 677 articles, 27 articles fulfilled the eligibility criteria, where data was compiled into a table, outlining the general characteristics and findings. Throughout the different forms of H2 administration, study design and types of cancers reported, outcomes were found to be consistent.

    CONCLUSION: From our analysis, H2 plays a promising therapeutic role as an independent therapy as well as an adjuvant in combination therapy, resulting in an overall improvement in survivability, quality of life, blood parameters, and tumour reduction. Although more comprehensive research is needed, given the promising outcomes, H2 is worth considering for use as a complement to current cancer therapy.

  5. Edirisinghe ST, Weerasekera M, De Silva DK, Devmini MT, Pathmaperuma S, Wijesinghe GK, et al.
    Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2023 Jan 01;24(1):267-274.
    PMID: 36708576 DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2023.24.1.267
    BACKGROUND: The incidence of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is very high in South Asia and Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is one of the key factors essential for cancer growth. The importance of VEGF-A and VEGF Receptor 2(VEGFR-2) in oral cancer pathophysiology is yet to be decided. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A (VEGF-A) is the main factor concerned in angiogenesis in tumors, but its role in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) is still debatable. Our study aimed to determine the role of VEGF-A and VEGFR-2 in OSCC.

    METHODS: Blood from 30 patients with primary OSCC and 1:1 age-sex-matched controls was subjected to qPCR and ELISA to detect VEGF-A gene expression and serum level. Tumors of the 30 patients were investigated for VEGF Receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) expression and were analyzed using Image J software version 1.52 for DAB percentage (DAB-P) area and optical density (OD).

    RESULTS: VEGF-A relative gene expression among patients was 2.43-fold higher compared to the healthy control group. Well-differentiated had a 1.98-fold increment, while poorly differentiated had a 3.58-fold increment. Serum VEGF-A was significantly elevated among the patients compared to controls (458.7 vs 253.2, p=0.0225). Poorly differentiated had a higher serum VEGF concentration (1262.0±354.7pg/ml) compared with other two. Mean VEGFR-2 DAB-P level in OSCC was 42.41±5.61(p=0.15). Well-differentiated had a DAB-P of 41.20±5.32 while poorly differentiated had DAB-P 46.21±3.78. The mean OD in OSCC was 0.54±0.16. VEGFR-2 OD in well and poorly differentiated OSCC were 0.48±0.12 and 0.68±0.17, respectively.

    CONCLUSIONS: VEGF-A gene expression, serum levels, and tissue VEGFR-2 levels correlated linearly with the stage and grade of the tumor. This study justifies the value of VEGF-A as a potential biomarker in OSCC in early detection of OSCC. More studies are needed to accept the use of VEGF-A.

  6. Wan Puteh SE, Mohamad Selamat E, Aizuddin AN, Tumian NR, Sathar J
    Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2022 Dec 01;23(12):4253-4260.
    PMID: 36580008 DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2022.23.12.4253
    BACKGROUND: The burden of chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) is increasing due to longer patient survival, better life expectancy of the general population, and increasing drug prices. Funding is one of the main concerns in the choice of CML medication used worldwide; thus, patient assistance programmes were introduced to ensure accessibility to affordable treatment. In this study, we evaluated CML drug distribution inequality in Malaysia through patient assistance programmes, using pharmaco-economics methods to evaluate CML treatment from the care provider's perspective.

    METHODS: Patients with CML were recruited from outpatient haematological clinics at the national centre of intervention and referral for haematological conditions and a public teaching hospital. The health-related quality of life or utility scores were derived using the EuroQol EQ-5D-5L questionnaire. Costing data were obtained from the Ministry of Health Malaysia Casemix MalaysianDRG. Imatinib and nilotinib drug costs were obtained from the administration of the participating hospitals and pharmaceutical company.

    RESULTS: Of the 221 respondents in this study, 68.8% were imatinib users. The total care provider cost for CML treatment was USD23,014.40 for imatinib and USD43,442.69 for nilotinib. The governmental financial assistance programme reduced the total care provider cost to USD13,693.51 for imatinib and USD19,193.45 for nilotinib. The quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) were 17.87 and 20.91 per imatinib and nilotinib user, respectively. Nilotinib had a higher drug cost than imatinib, yet its users had better life expectancy, utility score, and QALYs. Imatinib yielded the lowest cost per QALYs at USD766.29.

    CONCLUSION: Overall, imatinib is more cost-effective than nilotinib for treating CML in Malaysia from the care provider's perspective. The findings demonstrate the importance of cancer drug funding assistance for ensuring that the appropriate treatments are accessible and affordable and that patients with cancer use and benefit from such patient assistance programmes. To establish effective health expenditure, drug distribution inequality should be addressed.

  7. Hassan BAR, Mohammed AH, Alsammarraie AZA, Alabboodi MK, Wayyes AM, Ahmed AA, et al.
    Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2022 Dec 01;23(12):4275-4284.
    PMID: 36580010 DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2022.23.12.4275
    BACKGROUND: Chemotherapy resistance is caused by a multiplicity of reasons; some of which can be avoided and others that are beyond the scope of current treatment methods. Since chemotherapy is administered under the supervision of health personnel, the role of oncologists cannot be undermined, and yet none is known about their knowledge and perspective. This research is the first-ever study aiming to develop a valid and reliable tool to determine oncologists' knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) toward chemotherapy resistance.

    METHODS: Based on information gathered from literature searches, in-depth interviews with oncologists, and discussions with experts, an English-language questionnaire was developed. The questionnaire was tested for validity and reliability. A final version of the questionnaire (63 items) was piloted among 64 practicing oncologists and oncology trainees via convenient sampling. Data analysis was done using SPSS.

    RESULTS: Correlation coefficients for each of the questionnaire's domains were more than 0.7 (P<0.001), which suggests that the questionnaire had strong test-retest reliability. The overall internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha) for knowledge (0.728), attitude (0.722), and practice (0.716) were greater than 0.7 indicating good internal consistency. Participants demonstrated a low level of knowledge and a positive attitude toward chemotherapy resistance. A statistically significant difference was noted between the knowledge score and education level, years of experience in the medical and oncology field, and experiencing resistance cases.

    CONCLUSION: The developed questionnaire was found to be valid and reliable and can be used as an assessment tool for assessing oncologists' knowledge, attitude, and practice toward chemotherapy resistance in future studies. This study also reported that the oncologists have low knowledge on chemotherapy resistance and a predominantly positive attitude towards fighting chemotherapy resistance. Thus, it is essential for current practices in chemotherapy to be optimized to reduce the risk of chemotherapy resistance.

  8. Moey SF, Sowtali SN, Mohamad Ismail MF, Hashi AA, Mohd Azharuddin NS, Che Mohamed N
    Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2022 Dec 01;23(12):3971-3982.
    PMID: 36579977 DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2022.23.12.3971
    INTRODUCTION: Breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer worldwide. With an estimated 685,000 deaths, female breast cancer was the fifth leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide, accounting for 6.9% of all cancer deaths. Previous studies have shown that late detection and delayed diagnosis are associated with advanced-stage breast cancer and poor survival. Factors contributing to non-adherence to breast cancer screening among women were elicited from previous studies. However, few studies have focused on the Muslim community, particularly Muslim women. As such, this systematic review aims to fill this gap by collecting information from studies conducted globally over the past ten years that examined cultural, religious and socio-ethical misconceptions about breast cancer screening among Muslim women.

    METHODS: Following the PRISMA guidelines, literature searches were conducted systematically through various databases including PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Cochrane Library and Oxford Academic Journals. Article identification, screening steps and eligibility measures were meticulously performed throughout the review.

    RESULTS: A total of 22 papers were appraised and included in this review. Five main themes were generated which were socio-ethical misconceptions, cultural and religious beliefs, cultural and religious barriers, stigmatization and fear of breast cancer impact. Eight sub-themes and 14 sub sub-themes were further elicited from the main themes.

    CONCLUSION: Muslim women have socio-ethical, cultural and religious misconceptions on what constitutes health and practices as well as on the nature and etiology of BC. Cultural barriers and religious values of Muslim women were indicated to influence their health behaviors such as upholding their modesty when choosing health interventions. BC stigma and fear were also found to be key sources of psychological distress that discouraged Muslim women from undergoing BC screening. The study suggests the implementation of holistic effort in educating Muslim women to increase BC screening rate.

  9. Gan GG, Tey KWF, Mat S, Saad M, Bee PC, Abdul Malik R, et al.
    Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2022 Nov 01;23(11):3905-3914.
    PMID: 36444604 DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2022.23.11.3905
    BACKGROUND: Quality of life (QOL) of family caregivers of cancer patients is usually affected due to increase in caregiver burden. Their QOL has not garnered much attention by many including the health professionals and community. This study aims to explore the QOL of family caregivers of cancer patients in a multi-ethnic country in Asia and to investigate its associate factors.

    METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study where family caregivers and patients who were diagnosed of cancers within 12 months were recruited. QOL of caregivers were measured using The Caregiver Quality of Life Index-Cancer (CQOLC). Psychological distress was measured using Hospital anxiety and depressive scale. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the related factors of QOL of caregivers.

    RESULTS: A total of 458 patients/caregiver pairs were included. Symptoms of anxiety and depression reported by caregivers were 24.9% and 24.2% respectively. Caregivers of patients with solid tumors have better CQOLC score compared to those who cared for patients with hematological cancers (91.25 vs 86.75). Caregivers of non-Malay ethnicity, those caring for patients with advanced stage cancer and with hematological cancers had significantly poorer QOL. QOL of caregivers are also significantly affected when patients demonstrated anxiety symptoms.

    CONCLUSION: This study provides detailed evaluation of the QOL of caregivers of cancer patients in Malaysia. The significant psychological distress and low caregiver QOL indicate the urgent need for comprehensive supports for caregivers with cancer patients, especially those caring for patients with haematological cancers.

  10. Khaleel AK, Shaari RB, Nawi MAA, Al-Yassiri AMH
    Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2022 Sep 01;23(9):3195-3199.
    PMID: 36172684 DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2022.23.9.3195
    OBJECTIVE: Green tea (GT) contains polyphenolic flavonoids, different minerals like magnesium, calcium, and zinc, vitamins, amino acids, carbohydrates, proteins, and others. It has a different health benefit. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of intragastric gavage of a high dose GT extract on serum biochemical analysis of magnesium, calcium, and zincin juvenile Wistar albino rats.

    METHODS: Twelve rats were used in the study and divided in to two equal groups. All the animals in the control group were intragastically gavaged by distilled water and continues for ten days, from day 24 to day 34 of age, while the animals in the study group were intragastically gavaged by GT extract (300mg/kg/day) which continues also for ten days from day 24 to day 34 of age. On day 34 of age, and two hours after the last dose, the rats were anaesthetized and blood collection by cardiac puncture was taken.

    RESULTS: The results showed that the intragastric gavage of a high dose of GT extract caused a non-significant increase in serum magnesium, and calcium levels (p>0.05), but a significant increase in zinc serum level was seen(p< 0.05).

    CONCLUSION: GT can cause a significant increase in zinc serum level, and this may explain the significant role of GT in the response to different oxidative stress. It is recommended to measure the Zn serum level in rats after a period longer than two hrs from the time of the last dose of intragastric gavage of GT extract.

  11. Sharudin NA, Murtadha Noor Din AH, Azahar II, Mohd Azlan M, Yaacob NS, Sarmiento ME, et al.
    Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2022 Sep 01;23(9):2953-2964.
    PMID: 36172657 DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2022.23.9.2953
    BACKGROUND: Detectable neonatal Nav1.5 (nNav1.5) expression in tumour breast tissue positive for lymph node metastasis and triple-negative subtype serves as a valid tumour-associated antigen to target and prevent breast cancer invasion and metastasis. Therapeutic antibodies against tumour antigens have become the predominant class of new drugs in cancer therapy because of their fewer adverse effects and high specificity.

    OBJECTIVE: This study was designed to investigate the therapeutic and anti-metastatic potential of the two newly obtained anti-nNav1.5 antibodies, polyclonal anti-nNav1.5 (pAb-nNav1.5) and monoclonal anti-nNav1.5 (mAb-nNav1.5), on breast cancer invasion and metastasis.

    METHODS: MDA-MB-231 and 4T1 cells were used as in vitro models to study the effect of pAb-nNav1.5 (59.2 µg/ml) and mAb-nNav1.5 (10 µg/ml) (24 hours treatment) on cell invasion. 4T1-induced mammary tumours in BALB/c female mice were used as an in vivo model to study the effect of a single dose of intravenous pAb-nNav1.5 (1 mg/ml) and mAb-nNav1.5 (1 mg/ml) on the occurrence of metastasis. Real-time PCR and immunofluorescence staining were conducted to assess the effect of antibody treatment on nNav1.5 mRNA and protein expression, respectively. The animals' body weight, organs, lesions, and tumour mass were also measured and compared.

    RESULTS: pAb-nNav1.5 and mAb-nNav1.5 treatments effectively suppressed the invasion of MDA-MB-231 and 4T1 cells in the 3D spheroid invasion assay. Both antibodies significantly reduced nNav1.5 gene and protein expression in these cell lines. Treatment with pAb-nNav1.5 and mAb-nNav1.5 successfully reduced mammary tumour tissue size and mass and prevented lesions in vital organs of the mammary tumour animal model whilst maintaining the animal's healthy weight. mRNA expression of nNav1.5 in mammary tumour tissues was only reduced by mAb-nNav1.5.

    CONCLUSION: Overall, this work verifies the uniqueness of targeting nNav1.5 in breast cancer invasion and metastasis prevention, but more importantly, humanised versions of mAb-nNav1.5 may be valuable passive immunotherapeutic agents to target nNav1.5 in breast cancer.

  12. Karibayeva I, Turdaliyeva B, Zainal NZ, Bagiyarova F, Kussainova D
    Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2022 Aug 01;23(8):2813-2819.
    PMID: 36037138 DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2022.23.8.2813
    INTRODUCTION: Diagnosis of breast cancer is associated with high psychological distress. There is a lack of studies examining the prevalence of anxiety among newly diagnosed breast cancer patients in Kazakhstan.

    OBJECTIVE: This study aims to assess the mean prevalence and associated sociodemographic and clinical factors of anxiety symptoms in women newly diagnosed with breast cancer. It also aims to determine independent predictors of anxiety risk.

    METHODS: An analysis of 162 newly diagnosed breast cancer patients at the oncology institute in Almaty was performed. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire on social, demographic, and clinical information, as well as the Beck Anxiety Inventory. In addition, multiple regression analysis was used to model the relationship between anxiety risk and independent predictors.

    RESULTS: The average age of the patients was 54.41 years (SD=8.1; min.-max: 32-75). The majority of the patients were married (52%), employed or self-employed (51%), had children (91%), had a bachelor's or a graduate degree (50%), lived in an urban area (54%), did not drink (41%), did not smoke (67%), did not engage in physical activity (54%), and had social support (91%). A total of 48% of patients had symptoms of moderate anxiety, and 33% had symptoms of severe anxiety. Based on the multivariate analysis, factors associated with a lower risk of anxiety symptoms included higher household income (OR -2.21 (95 CI: -1.35, -3.07)) and having reliable social support (OR -2.93 (95% CI: -2.25, -3.61)).

    CONCLUSION: The prevalence of anxiety symptoms is very high among newly diagnosed breast cancer patients. Anxiety is more likely to develop in patients from low-income households and those without reliable social support.

  13. Thomas FM, Sudi S, Muhamad Salih FA, Palasuberniam P, Suali L, Mohd Sani MH, et al.
    Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2022 Aug 01;23(8):2863-2871.
    PMID: 36037145 DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2022.23.8.2863
    OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of CaM antagonist, PTZ, and TFP on cell proliferation and migration of colon cancer cells and its impact on POPDC protein expression.

    METHODS: The 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of PTZ and TFP in SW1116, SW480, HCT-15, and COLO205 colon cancer cell lines are measured using MTT. Western blot and immunocytochemistry were used to determine the expression of PCNA, cyclin D1 (CD1), and POPDC proteins. Cell migration was observed using a scratch wound-healing assay.

    RESULTS: Treatment with PTZ and TFP inhibited colon cancer cells growth in a dose-dependent manner. PTZ and TFP significantly inhibited the activation of proliferation markers, PCNA and CD1, and the migration of colon cancer cells. Furthermore, POPDC protein was significantly suppressed in all cell types of colon cancer, particularly in SW480. Finally, the CaM antagonist upregulates the POPDC1 expression in colon cancer cells.

    CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that CaM antagonists suppress colon cancer cells proliferation via downregulation of CD1 and PCNA. In addition, POPDC protein could be used as a biomarker in colon cancer, and CaM antagonist could be used to regulate POPDC1 expression. This study suggests that targeting POPDC1 with CaM inhibition could be a potential therapeutic strategy for colon cancer treatment. 
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  14. Turdaliyeva B, Karibayeva I, Bagiyarova F, Zainal NZ, Kussainova D
    Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2022 Jul 01;23(7):2483-2489.
    PMID: 35901357 DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2022.23.7.2483
    INTRODUCTION: Diagnosis of breast cancer is associated with the presence of psychological disorders including depression. There is a lack of study examining the prevalence of depression among newly diagnosed breast cancer patients in Kazakhstan.

    OBJECTIVE: This study aims to assess the prevalence and associated sociodemographic and clinical factors of depression symptoms in women newly diagnosed with breast cancer.

    METHODS: 162 newly diagnosed breast cancer patients at the oncology center in Almaty were recruited for this study. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire on sociodemographic and clinical information and the Beck Depression Inventory-II scale.

    RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 54.41 years (SD=8.1). 95% of participants had unilateral breast cancer, and 79% of participants had stage I or stage II breast cancer. 73% of patients said that they do not have reliable social support. 46% of patients had symptoms of moderate depression, and 31% of patients had symptoms of severe depression. According to the multivariate analysis, factors associated with depression symptoms were: social status, household income level, reliability of social support, and stage of breast cancer.

    CONCLUSION: The prevalence of depression symptoms is very high among newly diagnosed breast cancer patients. Unemployed or retired patients, with a lower household income, and no reliable social support diagnosed with an advanced stage of breast cancer are especially at high risk for developing depression.

  15. Al-Rawashde FA, Wan Taib WR, Ismail I, Johan MF, Al-Wajeeh AS, Al-Jamal HAN
    Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2021 Dec 01;22(12):3959-3965.
    PMID: 34967577 DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2021.22.12.3959
    OBJECTIVE: BCR ABL oncogene encodes the BCR-ABL chimeric protein, which is a constitutively activated non-receptor tyrosine kinase. The BCR-ABL oncoprotein is a key molecular basis for the pathogenesis of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) via activation of several downstream signaling pathways including JAK/STAT pathway. Development of leukemia involves constitutive activation of signaling molecules including, JAK2, STAT3, STAT5A and STAT5B. Thymoquinone (TQ) is a bioactive constituent of Nigella sativa that has shown anticancer properties in various cancers. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of TQ on the expression of BCR ABL, JAK2, STAT3, STAT5A and STAT5B genes and their consequences on the cell proliferation and apoptosis in K562 CML cells.

    METHODS: BCR-ABL positive K562 CML cells were treated with TQ. Cytotoxicity was determined by Trypan blue exclusion assay. Apoptosis assay was performed by annexin V-FITC/PI staining assay and analyzed by flow cytometry. Transcription levels of BCR ABL, JAK2, STAT3, STAT5A and STAT5B genes were evaluated by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Protein levels of JAK2 and STAT5 were determined by Jess Assay analysis.

    RESULTS: TQ markedly decreased the cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in K562 cells (P < 0.001) in a concentration dependent manner. TQ caused a significant decrease in the transcriptional levels of BCR ABL, JAK2, STAT3, STAT5A and STAT5B genes (P < 0.001). TQ induced a significant decrease in JAK2 and STAT5 protein levels (P < 0.001).

    CONCLUSION: our results indicated that TQ inhibited cell growth of K562 cells via downregulation of BCR ABL/ JAK2/STAT3 and STAT5 signaling and reducing JAK2 and STAT5 protein levels.

  16. Hasenan N, Mohd Isa SA, Hussain FA
    Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2021 Dec 01;22(12):4011-4016.
    PMID: 34967583 DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2021.22.12.4011
    BACKGROUND: c-Myc has become significantly involved in aggressive B-cell non Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), but little is known about its importance in T and NK cell NHL (TNKcNHLs) in association with prognostic factors. The study is to investigate the significance of c-Myc expression with clinicopathological features of TNKcNHLs patients.

    METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional study of 32 archived tissue blocks of TNKcNHLs were immunohistochemically stained with c-Myc. The results were microscopically evaluated and statistically analysed to examine the association between the clinicopathological data with the c-Myc expression.

    RESULTS: c-Myc protein expressions were detected in 25/32 (78.1%) cases. The median age was 38-years.  Malay ethnicity (92.0%) with 21 males and 11 females. c-Myc expressions were seen in T lymphoblastic lymphoma (20%), ALK-positive ALCL (16%) ,PTCL,NOS (16%), extra nodal NK/T-cell lymphoma, nasal type (12%), extra-nodal involvement (78.1%), elevated serum LDH (83.3%) and high ECOG performance status (82.4%). However, no statistical significant of c-Myc in association with the clinicopathological parameters (p > 0.05).

    CONCLUSION: There was no statistically significant association of clinicopathological parameters and histological subtypes of TNKcNHLs contributed by small samples tested. However, the attribution of c-Myc in this disease should be further explored.

  17. Norsa'adah B, Rampal KG, Mohd Amin R
    Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2021 Nov 01;22(11):3623-3631.
    PMID: 34837921 DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2021.22.11.3623
    BACKGROUND: Breast cancer patients in Malaysia often present late, delaying diagnosis and treatment. Decisions on health-seeking behaviour are influenced by a complex interplay of several factors. Early detection and subsequent successful treatment are the main goal in order to reduce breast cancer mortality. The aims of this study were to identify the time taken by women with breast cancer for consultation, diagnosis and first definitive treatment and the factors associated with the initiation of definitive treatment.

    METHODS: In this cohort study, we interviewed 328 women with histologically confirmed breast cancer at five medical centres in Malaysia. Times were measured from recognition of symptoms to first consultation to diagnosis and to the first definitive treatment. The event was initiation of definitive treatment. Data was analysed using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression.

    RESULTS: The mean age was 47.9 (standard deviation 9.4) years and 79.9% were ethnic Malays. The median follow-up time was 6.9 months. The median times for first doctor consultation, diagnosis and initiation of treatment were 2 months, 5.5 months and 2.4 weeks, respectively. The percentage of consultation delay more than a month was 66.8%, diagnosis delay more than three months was 73.2% and treatment delay more than one month was 11.6%. Factors associated with not initiating the definitive treatment were pregnancy (adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) 1.75; 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.07, 2.88), taking complementary alternative medicine (AHR 1.45; 95% CI: 1.15, 1.83), initial refusal of mastectomy (AHR 3.49; 95% CI: 2.38, 5.13) and undergoing lumpectomy prior to definitive treatment (AHR 1.62; 95% CI: 1.16, 2.28).

    CONCLUSIONS: Delays in diagnosis and consultation were more serious than treatment delays. Most respondents would accept treatment immediately after diagnosis. Respondents themselves were responsible for a large proportion of the delays. This study was successful in understanding the process of breast cancer patients' experience, from symptoms recognition to consultation, diagnosis and treatment.

  18. Ahmat ANMF, Wan Puteh SE, Yusak S
    Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2021 Nov 01;22(11):3601-3606.
    PMID: 34837918 DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2021.22.11.3601
    OBJECTIVE: Cancer-associated venous thromboembolism (CAT) is a common disease or complication which is associated with reduced survival and incurring a substantial health-care cost. Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) remained the gold standard treatment option available. Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have recently become more popular in the guidelines, they are still few and inconsistent across the current literature. The aim of this study was to evaluate rivaroxaban in treatment of CAT.

    METHODS: In this prospective real-world study, we recruited and followed up patients diagnosed with CAT treated with rivaroxaban or standard of care as a control for 12 months or until death. Baseline characteristics were collected at the study entry. The primary outcomes were recurrent DVT or PE and death within 12 months after treatment initiation. Safety outcomes were composite outcomes of major and minor bleeding.    Results: A total of 80 patients confirm CAT with radiological imaging were recruited; 39 patients were evaluated in the control arm and 41 patients in the rivaroxaban arm. The 12 months cumulative CAT recurrence rate was 46.2% in control and 39% in rivaroxaban (p=0.519). The 12-month death was not a statistically significant difference between both arms (20.5% vs. 31.7%, p=0.255). The cumulative rate of composite safety outcomes was similar in both groups (17.9% vs. 12.2%, p=0.471).

    CONCLUSION: The result of this small but important real-world evidence proofs that rivaroxaban is an effective and safe alternative to the standard of care for CAT in Malaysia's cancer population.

  19. Chan MW, Chean KY, Kader Maideen SF, Kow FP
    Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2021 Nov 01;22(11):3475-3482.
    PMID: 34837902 DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2021.22.11.3475
    Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most common cancer in men and the second most common cancer in women in Malaysia. A major challenge for CRC screening programs is to improve the screening participation rates. In Malaysia, the most critical barrier to the uptake of CRC screening is the lack of patient awareness. This study aimed to determine the intention and the uptake of CRC screening, and to explore the related motivators and barriers after raising awareness with a brief health education.

    METHODS: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in a government health clinic of Penang from March to August 2019. Asymptomatic clinic attendees aged 50-75 years who had no prior awareness of CRC screening were recruited by systematic random sampling technique. Participants first received a standardised one to one health education, followed by an interview using a standardised questionnaire to assess their CRC screening intention and the relevant motivators and barriers. A submission of a sample for immunochemical faecal occult blood test (iFOBT) was considered as an uptake of the CRC screening.

    RESULTS: A total of 546 participants participated in this study. The mean age of the participants was 62.8 (SD=6.36). Majority of them were females (57.3%), Chinese (78.6%), who had attained primary or higher education (92.0%) and had comorbidities (87.0%).  After a brief health education, 231 participants (42.3%) agreed to undergo iFOBT. The actual screening uptake rate in this study was 28%. Perceived benefit of the test (84.4%) was the most common motivators, while self-perceived non-vulnerability was the biggest impediment to CRC screening intention. Physicians' recommendation was the perceived most effective way in raising CRC awareness.

    CONCLUSION: Participants prefer physicians to provide health education. Standardised brief health education is inadequate to stimulate CRC screening adherence. Future interventions will require in-depth understanding of patients' beliefs, risk perception, and affective responses.

  20. Mohd Nafis NS, Mat Zin AA
    Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 2021 Oct 01;22(10):3261-3266.
    PMID: 34711003 DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2021.22.10.3261
    Liquid-based preparation (LBP) cytology is commonly used in most laboratories these days due to its convenience and reliable results for the cervical cancer screening program. The PathTezt™ Liquid-based Pap smear is a second-generation LBP, which uses a filter-based concentration technique in processing the sample.

    OBJECTIVE: This study was done to evaluate the cellular fixation, morphology, quality of smear in gynae cytology, and diagnostic interpretation of cervical cytological smears produced by the PathTezt liquid-based processor.

    MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 400 pap smear samples were taken and processed using the PathTezt 2000 processor. The slides were evaluated in terms of sample adequacy, percentage of the circle covered by epithelial cells, cellular distribution, obscuring factors, and cell fixation.

    RESULTS: About 95.25% (381) of the samples were satisfactory for the evaluation. In 19 (4.75%) of the samples, epithelial cells covered less than 50% of the circle. A sample with good cellular distribution was seen in 92% of the cases, while 354 (88.5%) samples showed minimal inflammatory background. Almost all the smears (95.75%) had no erythrocytes in the background. All smears showed good quality fixation features toward nuclear, cytoplasm, and microorganisms. The total performance rate was 99%.

    CONCLUSION: Although the PathTezt liquid-based processor is still new compared to other first-generation LBP, the smears produced by this method were of high quality and it was cost-effective.

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