Researchers found that people aged 80 and older who have a common lymphoma often do well with a lower chemotherapy dose. The study was presented by senior investigator Paul Barr at the American Society of Hematology meeting.
Investigators used a real-world group of patients treated in community cancer clinics across the US and worked with COTA Healthcare to analyse a large dataset of nearly 1,400 older people with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL).
The usual treatment is R-CHOP, but older patients in the study received mini-R-CHOP. The mini dose cured the same number as the full dose and led to fewer patients stopping treatment because of side effects. Researchers said the smaller plan kept effectiveness while reducing harm in many community clinics.
Difficult words
- lymphoma — a type of cancer in the body's lymph systemB-cell lymphoma
- chemotherapy — treatment with strong medicine to kill cancer cells
- dataset — a large collection of information for study
- side effects — unwanted health problems caused by a medicine
- cure — to make a person healthy again after illnesscured
- treatment — medical care to try to help a sick person
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- If you were 80 or older, would you prefer a lower chemotherapy dose? Why?
- Why are fewer side effects important for older patients?
- Do you think studies of patients in community clinics are useful for doctors? Why?
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