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37 Products That Are So Good, You Won't Believe You Lived Without Them For So Long

37 Products That Are So Good, You Won't Believe You Lived Without Them For So Long

Yahoo27-02-2025

We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
Amazon, www.amazon.com
Seriously, people are *obsessed* with how this stuff smells. Its warm gourmand fragrance has notes of salted caramel, pistachio, and vanilla — yum!
BTW, caffeine can brighten skin and temporarily minimize the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite, if that's something you're looking for in a product. Read more about the skincare benefits of caffeine at the Cleveland Clinic!
Promising review: "For demographic purposes: Female, 33 years old. I've only been using this for four days and can see a slight difference in the appearance of my cellulite. I have a deep dimple in my left butt cheek and I can already tell that it's shrinking and smoothing out. I've used very expensive creams, oils and lotions but after four days I already see more results with this product. To make it even better, the scent is amazing! I use it all over because it makes my skin so soft even the next day." —ChelseaK
Get it from Amazon for $24+ (available in three sizes).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Check out a TikTok of the veggie chopper in action.
Fullstar is a small biz that specializes in super useful kitchen gadgets!
Promising review: "Makes life so much easier. I can't imagine chopping onions or bell peppers by hand anymore, and it does so much more. We used to have a Prepworks chopper, which was a similar idea, but you had to press so hard to chop and it broke after not too long. This one requires very little effort to cut through the food and it has a generous container." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $21.84+ (available in four colors and five sizes).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Melanie Aman loves these: "I recently received a pack to try and was surprised at how often I found myself reaching for them. While they can't replace a sponge (at least not in my cleaning routine because they're not as abrasive as a sponge), they are a fantastic paper towel replacement in most scenarios. I keep one in my kitchen and bathroom to deal with puddles on the counter and by the faucet, spills, and crumbs. As someone who buys sponges in bulk, I usually forget which sponge is the dish sponge and which is the cleaning sponge. Now that I have these dishcloths to handle easy messes, I don't have to worry about accidentally washing my dishes with the sponge that has bleach and harsh chemicals on it."
Promising review: "I heard about these on TikTok. I wanted something that simply absorbs my cleaner and what's wet off the counter without streaking crap like most washcloths and sponges do. These showed up today sturdy and kinda weird. I sprayed my dirty, oily stovetop with cleaner, got one of the square sponges wet, and started wiping up the counters and stove. Hot diggity dog! I love this sponge already! Cleaned up completely and didn't require repeated passes. When you use it, you'll know what I'm talking about. Great product!!!!" —Julie
Get a 10-pack from Amazon for $17.85 (available in 11 color combos and a set of two 10-packs).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
LilyAna Naturals is a family-owned small business using natural ingredients to craft high-quality skincare products.
Promising review: "I rarely go out of my way to write a review unless I'm truly amazed by the product. I have terrible sunken-in eyes (due to genetics) that can't really be fixed without fillers (which I'd never do). No matter how much sleep I get, I have bad dark circles, so I decided that I had to invest in an eye cream. I'm so glad I did! I used a cheap drug store eye cream that really only made it look like I had water under my eyes and it did nothing else. This eye cream is so hydrating and smooth! It really evens out my skin tone and wakes up my face in the morning! I feel so refreshed and dare I say...prettier. It's boosted my confidence a ton. I'm so happy with this product!" —casie ackerman
Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in a caffeine version, three sizes and a pack of two).
www.amazon.com
Dr. Tung's is a small biz that makes breath-improving dental products.
Promising review: "For YEARS, my tongue had been a whiteish-covered organ. It was more white-covered than pink. It looked like it had been born permanently stained with streaks of vanilla ice cream. I secretly envied the wet, pink, glistening tongues of others. Over the years and with countless attempts of desperation, I scrubbed and scrubbed my tongue with the fronts and backs of toothbrushes, all to no avail. Until tonight. As I pulled the gentle scraper down across my tongue, I couldn't believe my eyes. I HAD FINALLY UNCOVERED WHAT MY SOUL HAS CRIED FOR FOR YEARS — A PINKISH-RED TONGUE! [Short version]: BUY THIS SCRAPER. It will take years off your tongue and add them back upon your life." —Stewart Clyde
Get it from Amazon for $8.55 (also available in a pack of two or 12).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
ChomChom is a small biz that makes cleaning products for people with pets!
Promising review: "This thing does exactly what it says it does. It has made my life so much better, and I feel like I'm actually making progress in picking up the cat hair instead of just moving it from one place to another. I love it. The door that opens to throw away the picked-up hair needs to be more stable. I feel like it could break easily, so I'm very careful with it. All in all, this is a great product." —Drema
Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in two colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
If you're looking for a water-based cleanser to go with this one, reviewers love this pore-deep cleansing foam from the same brand for their double-cleansing routine!
Promising review: "My go-to cleansing oil. It melts makeup and SPF quickly and without much effort. I like using it more as a skin cleanser than a makeup remover just because it has helped my skin glow by making my skin texture better and getting rid of blackheads!" —Ravishankar Rao
Get it from Amazon for $17.69.
www.amazon.com
To use, apply this in thin layers to avoid creasing, then follow with your favorite concealer and setting powder if you like. If you don't like applying products with your fingers, they also make a triangle-shaped puff that's perfect for using with this.
Promising review: "Took years off my eyes! This product is so reasonably priced. I came across a TikTok promoting this and decided to take a chance since the price was super reasonable. My eyes looked brighter in a good way, and the concealer worked so well that I felt I looked younger. I got compliments from friends asking what I did differently with my makeup. I recommend it." —Placeholder
Get it from Amazon for $6 (available in four shades).
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Absolutely LOVED these leggings. Super soft, stretchy, and so comfy. I would even say these are a good dupe for higher end leggings. RECOMMEND! 🤍 I need every color!" —SDC
Get it from Amazon for $22.99 (available in women's sizes XS–XXL and in eight colors).
Emma Lord / BuzzFeed
It's great for packing a suitcase too — because, let's face it, we all need emergency backup outfits!
BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord is OBSESSED: "Despite all the rave reviews I was definitely skeptical of space-saving bags that didn't require a vacuum, and even as they were actively squishing my clothes into oblivion I still couldn't quite believe it. I had easily two suitcases worth of clothes I wanted to pack for a three-week trip to London, and I managed to neatly pack the entirety of my wardrobe in one roller carry-on bag. Truly all I had to do was put my clothes in the bag, push them to the bottom, and then sit on it to get the air out before sealing it up. I had tons of extra bags and make a habit of taking them with me in case other people joining me on trips need them to be able to pack souvenirs on the way home. I'm never taking a long trip without these again — these are worth every damn penny.
"Psst — just note that airlines will still enforce weight limits, so don't fly TOO close to the sun packing these up!!"
Get a set of eight from Amazon for $15.98.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Also, if you have teeth crowding that makes it hard for a toothbrush to reach certain teeth, this lets you more easily target those severe areas of discoloration.
Promising review: "After using it several times over the course of a week, I immediately noticed the difference in the color of my teeth. I'm a smoker and a heavy coffee drinker. I'm finding that this product will be a lifesaver in terms of what my smile looks like. I would definitely recommend!!" —Mully
Get it from Amazon for $9.95 (available in a pack of two or four).
www.amazon.com
Just wash and air dry them before the next use and store them in the nifty travel box to keep them clean.
Promising review: "So I decided to put these to the ultimate test for 4th of July underneath my white, semi-sheer swimsuit. I wore them out in the Florida heat in the ocean all day, and they did not budge or peel off. I thought for sure these would take skin off by the time I got home because I just couldn't believe they stayed on the entire day (humidity is real). I was able to remove them with ease. I washed them with warm water and soap and let them dry, and the next day, they were super sticky, like they were brand new out of the package again. Buying these forever." —Marisa
Get it from Amazon for $26.50 (available in three sizes: small fits A–C cups, large fits D+ cups, and extra large fits DD+ cups. You can also choose from five shades and two styles, including one that provides lift).
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Natalie Brown swears by these pasties! Check out her Nippies review to learn more.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "The product is a great alternative to Tower 28, any HCl spray will have a bleach-like smell, but it fades right away. I spray it right after washing my face in preparation for my nighttime routine and after workouts. Just be careful when using it with skin and makeup products as if it's not completely dry it will deactivate their properties. I use a fan to dry it out and it doesn't take long. Also, the atomizer mists more than it spritzes so you get nice even coverage. I usually use 3–5 sprays to cover my face. Haven't had any new breakouts since using it!" —Sophie
Get it from Amazon for $17.46.
www.amazon.com
Reviewers with dry skin really enjoy how hydrating this product is!
Promising review: "I was skeptical because I thought this was just an overhyped item, but within the first two days, I saw a noticeable difference in the glow and texture of my face. After a week, even more so. I already have a pretty solid skincare routine, so I didn't think this would make the big impact it did. I highly recommend it, and it will definitely be a staple of my routine from now on." —andy
Get it from Amazon for $18.95.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews: "TikTok made me buy it and I absolutely love it. So amazing so many rainbows it reminds me of my childhood." —wendy G
"I live in an apartment community and I wanted to find a solution to cover up my windows without using my blinds/curtains. Let me just say...wow! This beyond exceeded my expectations. Not only does it give me the privacy I need, but the way the lights reflect in the daytime AND nighttime is just breathtaking! In the morning when the sun shines through, tiny little rainbows get cast all over the bedroom! At night it looks so cozy, warm, and has a beautiful, realistic stained glass look to it." —Katie Coyle
Get it from Amazon for $6.99+ (available in 13 sizes and four colors).
www.amazon.com
Need extra space? No worries! It also includes a handy shoe pouch for those extra essentials.
Promising review: "I was looking for a travel bag that I can pack a bunch of outfits for an out-of-state trip. I usually overpack and need to check my bags at the airport causing more delays in my travel journey. This bag accommodated all my stuff with a strategic way to pack and had everything I needed for five nights. I would order another one with wheels if I can find one. Otherwise, this bag is still amazing." —Roxanne Mason
Get it from Amazon for $38.99+ (available in 10 colors).
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "This small investment saved me over $500. I was ready to replace my dishwasher due to super cloudy glasses, residue, and dishes just not getting clean. Then, I became aware that the water softener was no longer doing its job so I had the rental company replace it. Dishwasher performance improved somewhat. I decided to do two more loads before deciding to purchase a new one. Then I saw a product test review for Affresh. I was ordering some stuff from Amazon anyway so I added that to my order. When it came, I tossed one of the tablets into the bottom of the full machine per the instructions and ran the regular cycle. I did not expect the results I got! The glassware that I thought was permanently etched and ruined came out like new. Same with cutlery. The difference is unbelievable. I will use this faithfully every month, as recommended." —Sheila
Get a pack of six from Amazon for $8.98.
Amazon
Promising review: "Saw on TikTok (don't judge) and automatically added to cart. So easy to use, takes probably a minute to fully bubble up and clean, and you're left with a clean sink! I use with other drain cleaning products, but would 100% recommend for weekly maintenance." —Jessica Hamilton
Get a pack of four from Amazon for $8 (available in packs of two or four).
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Omg!!!! I'm embarrassed to post this. It has been almost two years since I've cleaned my microwave. 🥴 Between pregnancies and surgeries I just haven't had the time. One use and it made a significant difference." —Jonna Kiser
Get it from Amazon for $7.99 (available in three colors and two-packs).
www.amazon.com
Simply fill your dirty mug with water, add a tablet, let it fizz for 15–30 minutes, and then give it a thorough rinsing before drinking from it!
Bottle Bright is a small business that has made cleaning bottles extremely easy and waaay more doable.
Promising review: "Saw this on BuzzFeed, had to give it a try. Used it on our stainless steel coffee carafe that I have been trying to get clean for two years. The coffee stains inside just would not come out, no matter how much vinegar, dish detergent or scrubbing I did. Until today!! Hot water and tablet in, let it sit for three hours, and UNBELIEVABLE. Where has this Bottle Bright been all my life?? I can't wait to use it on all my travel coffee mugs. Can you please make tablets for all my cleaning needs?! This was about the easiest thing I have ever done. Love it. Highly recommend!" —Someone
Get a 12-pack from Amazon for $7.99 (available in a pack of 36 and 78).
Check out our Bottle Bright tablets deep dive for more incredible before and after pics. 👀
www.amazon.com
And FYI, this product works amazingly to maintain your already clean shower, but it probs won't take off layers of built-up dirt and grime on its own. So we suggest doing a deep clean *first* if your shower is due for one!
Promising review: "This product was everything I wanted to clean the shower walls and base. I followed the instructions and waited longer than 24 hours due to my busy schedule. The results were fantastic. Cleaning the shower is no longer a chore." —LaCatarinaGrande
Get it from Amazon for $19.39 (available in two scents, a two-pack, and a refill size).
Amazon
Promising review: "I bought it because I saw a woman on TikTok showcase something similar like this on her page (on how to keep a home tidy) and I was like I HAD to buy! It's wonderful! I have ALWAYS hated seeing all the clutter of cords stick out from cord extenders and having this makes my small place look cleaner and organized! I would recommend this for anyone!" —Chidi
Get it from Amazon for $22.99+ (available in two sizes and three colors).
www.amazon.com
Tip: To keep things hygienic (and ramp up the exfoliation), you could use a lip brush to scoop out and use the scrub on your lips.
Promising review: "This sugar scrub is a 10/10. I added this to my bed time routine and it has already made a tremendous impact on my lips. I'll wash my face with a gentle face wash cleanser, then apply this sugar scrub after. I'll take a slightly damp face cloth and rub it away so I don't remove the moisturizing aspect. My lips feel smoother and softer after 10 days consistent use. I feel refreshed and reset before I rest. I highly recommend this product. Also, I have sensitive skin, and this scrub has not irritated me. Add this to your routine asap!" —Laney87
Get it from Amazon for $16.99 (available with a lip treatment or the lip treatment and a lip balm included).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Coop Sleep Goods is a small business specializing in pillows, pillowcases, and sleep products.
Promising review: "I hardly ever write reviews but I have to for this. I saw this pillow on TikTok and it got me curious so I immediately came to Amazon. OMG, it's such a game changer. I'm a side sleeper and this pillow is heaven. It's some of the most comfortable sleep I have had in ages. I love it so much I bought a second one and have my eye on the body pillow. Obsessed! You need this in your bedroom." —MT
Get it from Amazon for $79+ (available in two sizes and three shapes).
Amazon, www.amazon.com
Danjor Linens is a small business that specializes in bedding products for home and dorm use.
Promising review: "I sleep extremely hot. I always have issues with sheets and blankets, but with these sheets I sleep cool. I have a very thick memory foam mattress and it fit perfectly. They are so super soft, I truly love them. I noticed that when I washed them they got softer. I personally don't use fabric softeners or bleach. I have used them for about a month now I am definitely going buy more." —Mel
Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in sizes twin–California king and 10 colors).
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Promising review: "I was looking for a dry shampoo that would be easy to use on the go for a trip I was taking. I had no issues taking this through TSA and it was so easy to use on the go. You literally just pat the poof on your scalp and then rub the powder in. I do have black hair so dry shampoo is usually very visible in my hair, but I didn't have any harder time than usual rubbing this powder in. It did a really good job of soaking up all the oil and giving my hair volume. I'm not a fan of the price for the amount that you get, but it is lasting longer than I thought it would. I would definitely recommend and will purchase again." —Teresa
Get it from Amazon for $18 (available in five shades and in packs of two or three; refills also available).
www.amazon.com
The reviewer above got such amazing results by using this tool along with soaking their brush in a Dawn-and-diluted-vinegar solution!
Promising review: "When I bought this I was really skeptical. I am grossed out by my hairbrush and clean it all the time. I've soaked it in vinegar and tea tree oil, used a toothbrush, scrubbed it with shampoo, picked it clean by hand — everything you can think of. Still, it's so hard to get the little lint that forms at the base of the brush — they don't dissolve off and you have to pick them off the bristles one by one because a toothbrush won't even break them up. This thing works amazingly. I don't know why, it just does — the particular texture of the bristles on this really grabs everything. It scraped the little lint rings right off and now my brush is cleaner, 10 times as fast." —HeartsofHavoc
Get it from Amazon for $11.95.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I saw this on TikTok, and our toddler has turned our apartment in such a dirty place. Stains everywhere! Our sofa was in such bad condition (which we only got it two years ago) that we were thinking of getting a new one. We decided to try this, and it is a miracle worker. I'm so glad we bought this. It's worth every penny!" —shahzad mahmood
Get it from Amazon for $98.59 (available in three styles).
Emma Lord / BuzzFeed
Mouthwatchers is a small business established by Ronald Plotka, DDS, specializing in antimicrobial toothbrushes designed for deeper cleans.
Here's BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord: "I love it just after the first few days of use! I use an electric toothbrush usually, but I feel like I'm getting a much more satisfying clean from these?? Especially because I tend to get yellow stains between my teeth no matter *how* much I floss, and these bristles seem to actually target that a lot more effectively."
Promising review: "I'm amazed at how well this toothbrush cleans my teeth — it definitely gets between the teeth and also, more importantly for me, gets in the small, deep crevices in my molars where I always have food stuck, and regular toothbrushes couldn't get stuff out. I brush more often (after meals/snacks) because of how effective it is. As stated, definitely go easy around the gums. The bristles feel soft but will cause your gums to bleed if you use regular pressure. Nice and easy does the trick, SO WELL!" —Jason A.
Get a pair from Amazon for $9.99.
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "This is one of those items you didn't know you needed, and once you get it, you can't help but wonder how you ever managed before. I absolutely hate taking the shower curtains off because of the whole open and close for several shower curtains. I know you're like, 'It's just shower curtain hooks.' And it is. But when you have to change out the creepy shower liner that likes to attack you, and you dread doing so, this just adds seconds to your life. No more unsnapping. Simply take out the liner, place the liner on the appropriate hook, and presto." —Nardsbaby
Get it from Amazon for $6.99+ (available in 16 colors).
Amazon
BTW, it's BPA-free, FDA-compliant, heat-resistant up to 450 degrees F, and dishwasher-safe.
Frywall is a small business that was featured on Shark Tank for their genius splatter guard. You can get check out their page for more sizes, so you can get one for all your pots and pans!
Promising review: "The Frywall works very well and I am very pleased with it. My range top is black and you can see each little spot of grease. Before now I got really tired of cleaning my range top thoroughly each time I fried anything. You have made my life much easier. Thanks." —Laurie J. Englehardt
Get it from Amazon for $21.95 (available in four colors).
www.amazon.com
Check out our Elizavecca CER-100 Collagen Coating Hair Protein Treatment review to learn more about why my colleague calls it "the miracle product I've been searching for."
Promising reviews: "I have 4c hair and was looking for a protein treatment for my thin and fragile hair. I had recently used a product in my hair that had so much alcohol in it; that wreaked havoc on my hair, leaving it pretty damaged. I was very skeptical about this product because I have never seen anyone with my hair type use it. Boy was I wrong to doubt this product, it left my hair looking and feeling beautiful. I highly recommend it to anyone natural or with curly hair." —Therese-Claire
"I have super fine, blonde hair. I've ran through likely hundreds of different hair masks and leave in conditioners over the years, only to have them cling to my hair like nothing else, often leaving it feeling waxy and heavy. After a few rounds of clarifying shampoo, I reached for this stuff and it legit brought my hair back from the grave. Even with my hair being extremely fine, it leaves it soft, glossy, and gorgeous! I know some people have said they're not a fan of the smell, but I find it to be super light and refreshing.Could not recommend this stuff enough!!" —Soph
Get it from Amazon for $7.76.
www.amazon.com
To use, apply to the stain, gently agitate with your fingers, and blot with an absorbent cloth. This is nontoxic and should be nonirritating on the skin!
Promising review: "I had terrible rust and oil stains all over the seats of my car when I bought it. I tried other cleaners to get it out, but they actually made the stains darker. I took it to the dealership to see if they could get it out and they flat out told me no, so I gave up and lived with it for almost five years. I tried this after it was recommended by a friend. I sprayed it on and literally watched the stain run right off my seat. It was amazing! I thought I was going to have to pay hundreds of dollars to replace the seats in my car because nothing else would work. This stuff really is awesome!" —Brittany
Get it from Amazon for $6.65 (available in two sizes and various packs).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "This foot peel is THE TRUTH and got my feet right and smooth as butter! I've never done a foot peel in my life and so I had a lot of hard skin under my foot to get rid of. The shipping was super fast, I think I received it in like three days! I followed the instructions on the box, and decided to put on the foot peel on right before bed. You can feel the peel tingling and working while you have it on your feet so I felt relief. It took about three days after I did the peel to see the results starting. Do not get discouraged if you see peeling only at the toes. That's just the start of it...cause the next day I felt the mid of my foot arch bubble after my bath and a whole piece of skin was peeling. This peel did its job and some more! It has my feet feeling baby smooth! This peel gave me a feeling of being in a salon without the polish. It felt good to pamper myself. This is my go-to from now on, when I want a good smooth foot AFTER a pedicure (because a pumice stone can't do what this peel can)!" —Shopinista
Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in five scents and a pack of two).
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "This thing is a straight-up miracle. I've had brownish hard water rings around the inside (water level) of my toilets for decades. Bon Ami, CLR, muriatic acid, scrubbing, swearing...nothing worked. Finally, in a fit of disgust, I ordered the pumice. I wish I could go back in time and tell myself to get this long ago. The stains are gone for the first time in forever. Haven't scratched the toilet bowl as far as I can see. If you've got hard water stains, don't worry about chemicals...just get this thing and in about 10 minutes you will be as delighted as I am, and not embarrassed to have people in your bathroom anymore." —JS
Get it from Amazon for $11.19 (available in a pack of two or six).
www.amazon.com
And check out this reviewer who used them to keep their tablecloth secure!
Bed Band is a US-based small business that specializes in bed bands for mattresses of various sizes.
Promising review: "I have a pillow-top and pillow-bottom queen-size bed that is a little too small for king sheets, and with queen sheets, I have battled to keep the sheets from popping off. I have tried everything! I was about to try to customize some king sheets because it was so frustrating. Then I saw this product advertised on Facebook in one of those posts about the amazing products that people love. So, I figured it was worth a try. It works. I was shocked. My sheets have not popped off once. I ordered this in February, and it is May now — and they have not popped off once! They used to pop off EVERY...SINGLE...NIGHT. To say this is life changing is not an exaggeration. Such a relief to be able to sleep through the night without ending up in rumpled sheets." —TinkerbellAPixie
Get a set of four from Amazon for $13.99 (available in three colors, two sizes, and sets of eight, 12, or 16).
www.amazon.com
If you live with roommates and need extra shower storage, then these are the move!
Promising review: "I saw these shelves on TikTok and really wanted to try them out, as I have no shelves in my shower. The adhesion is impressive — they've stayed sticking for the past two weeks with no sign of letting up, and are holding about four bottles of products on each of the two racks I have hanging. I thought for sure they would fall after showering or something, but they have stayed strong and held up. I'm so impressed! I'm sure I will purchase more in the future. Super duper easy to install, they look beautiful and modern, and give my bathroom a totally different vibe. It's so nice to have a product like this available!! Thank you!" —Sara B
Get the set of shelves from Amazon for $30.49+ (available in four finishes and an option to include a soap holder).
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.

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Ask the Expert: Should I have Biomarker Testing – and Would it Help?

Biomarker testing in colorectal cancer can help assess inherited risk and identify characteristics that may influence the disease's growth, spread, and response to treatment. Colorectal cancer (CRC) starts in the colon or rectum of the large intestine. Your doctor may refer to it as 'colon cancer' or 'rectal cancer,' depending on where the cancer develops first, but both of these diagnoses are included under the banner of CRC. CRC is treatable, and biomarker testing is a part of precision medicine in your comprehensive treatment plan. Biomarker testing in CRC can help detect cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages. It can also provide important details about cancer after a diagnosis that influence treatment and outcomes. Dr. Smitha Krishnamurthi, a gastrointestinal oncology specialist with the Cleveland Clinic, talks with Healthline about biomarker testing and who it's recommended for. What is biomarker testing? Biomarker testing refers to testing of the colorectal cancer to find out if there are certain changes in the cancer's genes and proteins that could impact prognosis [outlook] and treatment. What are the most common biomarkers, and what do they show? Biomarkers in CRC measure a variety of different biological processes and states. Each biomarker provides important details about the cancer's growth, spread, or treatment response. DNA mismatch repair Hospital pathology labs now commonly test all initial biopsies or surgical specimens of colorectal cancer for the presence of DNA mismatch repair proteins. This is done via immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining of the slides to look for [the] expression of four mismatch repair proteins: MLH1, PMS2, MSH2, and MSH6. If one or two of these proteins are missing, then the cancer has deficient DNA mismatch repair. Microsatellite instability (MSI) This is a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or next-generation sequencing (NGS) test [that looks] for abnormalities in microsatellite regions of the cancer DNA. The test can be done on a tumor specimen or blood (liquid biopsy). Microsatellites are short, repeated sequences of DNA. If the cancer has [atypical] DNA mismatch repair, errors will appear in microsatellite regions of DNA in the form of missing bases or extra bases added to the DNA sequence. RAS gene mutations (mutations in KRAS and NRAS genes) This testing can be performed by PCR or NGS testing of the tumor or NGS testing of blood (liquid biopsy). RAS is a very important oncogene, meaning that it is a gene that, when mutated, drives cancer cell proliferation and survival. Mutations in RAS genes are found in up to 50% of colorectal cancers. BRAF V600E gene mutation This testing can be performed by PCR or NGS testing of the tumor or NGS testing of blood (liquid biopsy). The BRAF V600E protein can also be detected by IHC. BRAF is another oncogene, so when it is mutated, it leads to cancer cell proliferation and survival. BRAF V600E mutations occur in about 8% to 10% of colorectal cancers and are more common in right-sided cancers. HER2 protein overexpression by IHC or gene amplification by NGS HER2 is another oncogene — gene amplification leads to [the] overexpression of the HER2 protein. Overexpression of HER2 leads to increased signaling via the epidermal growth factor receptor pathway, leading to cancer cell proliferation and survival. PIK3CA PIK3CA is another oncogene. Mutations in PIK3CA and a related gene, PIK3R1, lead to cancer cell proliferation and survival. Mutations in PIK3CA and PIK3R1 are typically found via NGS. PTEN PTEN is a tumor suppressor gene, [which typically] suppresses cancer growth. When the PTEN gene is mutated, the protein is not expressed, and that leads to [the] proliferation of cancer. PTEN gene mutations are typically found via NGS. Who should have biomarker testing done? All patients with colorectal cancer should have testing of their cancer for DNA mismatch repair (or microsatellite instability) soon after diagnosis. This is important for patients with cancers of all stages. Patients with early stage colorectal cancer should have testing of their cancers for mutations in PIK3CA, PTEN, and PIK3R1 by the time they finish adjuvant treatment or after surgery if [they're] not having adjuvant treatment. Patients with metastatic colorectal cancer should have next-generation sequencing of the cancer soon after diagnosis, as the results may impact the initial systemic treatment. The NGS results are also useful for identifying clinical trial eligibility. Comorbidities will not affect the results of these biomarkers, so they should not affect the timing and decision making about ordering these tests. How does biomarker testing help the treatment and outcome of a diagnosis? Biomarkers can impact your treatment choices and outcomes. They can help doctors decide which medications will be the most effective, identify inherited features in cancer, and determine if adjuvant or additional therapies would improve outcomes. Immunotherapy responsiveness It is critical to know if a cancer has deficient DNA mismatch repair (dMMR) or high microsatellite instability (MSI-H) because these cancers can respond dramatically to immunotherapy in the early stage and metastatic settings. For example, patients with rectal cancer that is dMMR or MSI-H may have a complete clinical response with immunotherapy and may be able to avoid radiation and surgery. Thus, this testing needs to be done early, before treatment starts. Identifying Lynch syndrome Another important reason for testing for dMMR or MSI-H is to identify cancers caused by Lynch syndrome. Lynch syndrome is the most common type of inherited colorectal cancer and is caused by germline mutations in the genes that code for the DNA mismatch repair proteins or in another related gene called EPCAM. Most cancers with deficient mismatch repair or MSI-H are not caused by Lynch syndrome and occur sporadically. We don't want to miss patients with Lynch syndrome, however, because they can benefit from counseling about [the] prevention of Lynch syndrome-related cancers such as uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, and gastric cancer, in addition to colorectal cancer. When a patient is diagnosed with Lynch syndrome, family members can then be tested to see if they have Lynch syndrome. Recommendations for cancer screening at early stages are made for individuals with Lynch syndrome, and early screening can be lifesaving. Identifying treatment resistance Mutations in KRAS and NRAS make cancers resistant to anti-epidermal growth factor receptor therapy. Cancers with KRAS G12C mutations can be treated with a regimen that targets this mutation (adagrasib plus cetuximab or sotorasib plus panitumumab). There are also many clinical trials now studying RAS gene inhibitors in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer that have been previously treated. Cancers with BRAF V600E tend to be aggressive and less sensitive to chemotherapy. There is a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved regimen targeting BRAF V600E (encorafenib plus cetuximab) in metastatic colorectal cancer that improves survival when added to first-line FOLFOX chemotherapy. It also improves survival as a second-line treatment after chemotherapy. Greater response to targeted and adjuvant therapy Metastatic colorectal cancers that demonstrate [the] overexpression or gene amplification of HER2 can be treated with a targeted regimen of tucatinib plus trastuzumab after initial chemotherapy. Another targeted treatment available for metastatic colorectal cancers that overexpress HER2 by IHC is trastuzumab deruxtecan. Patients with early stage colorectal cancer with mutations in the PIK3CA, PIK3R1, or PTEN genes should be treated with aspirin 160 milligrams daily for 3 years after adjuvant therapy or after surgery if [they're] not having adjuvant therapy. The ALASCCA trial, presented at ASCO GI [American Society of Clinical Oncology – Gastrointestinal Cancer] in 2025, compared a placebo to aspirin in this patient population and found that aspirin significantly lowered the rate of cancer recurrence at 3 years. This is rather new data. Oncologists are starting to order NGS testing for patients with early stage cancers in order to obtain this biomarker information. What should you ask your doctor? It's always OK to ask your doctor about biomarker testing and what it means for you. Important questions to consider include: Is my cancer dMMR/MSI-H? Am I a candidate for immunotherapy? Patients with early stage colorectal cancer should ask if aspirin therapy will be recommended based on biomarker testing. Patients with metastatic colorectal cancer should ask for the results of RAS/BRAF/HER2 testing and overall NGS testing results.

‘She always said, 'I'm going to be famous, dad'': Teen dies after viral TikTok ‘dusting' challenge
‘She always said, 'I'm going to be famous, dad'': Teen dies after viral TikTok ‘dusting' challenge

Yahoo

time18 hours ago

  • Yahoo

‘She always said, 'I'm going to be famous, dad'': Teen dies after viral TikTok ‘dusting' challenge

The parents of a 19-year-old who dreamed of fame and died after trying the TikTok 'dusting' trend are warning others about its deadly risks. Renna O'Rourke and her boyfriend DoorDashed aerosol keyboard cleaner to her parents' Tempe, Arizona, home without her mother's knowledge, Dana O'Rourke told 12 News. The dusting trend, also known as chroming or huffing, involves inhaling common household cleaners to get high for views online. The sensation causes brief euphoria but can cause instant, fatal damage, often due to heart failure, according to the Cleveland Clinic. After inhaling the keyboard cleaner, Renna went into cardiac arrest, spent a week unconscious in the intensive care unit, and then was declared brain-dead. Renna's parents described their late daughter as 'vivacious and caring and loyal.' Her father, Aaron O'Rourke, told 12 News that Renna loved to sing and lit up every room with her smile and laughter. 'She always said, 'I'm going to be famous, dad. Just you watch. I'm going to be famous,' and unfortunately, this is not under the most optimal of circumstances,' Aaron O'Rourke, told the outlet.. Despite the less-than-ideal circumstances, the O'Rourke family is now working to honor Renna by spreading the word about the dangers of huffing for teens and parents. 'There's no ID required. It's odorless. It's everything kids look for. They can afford it, they can get it, and it doesn't show in mom and dad's drug test,' Dana O'Rourke told AZ Family about access to the trendy chemicals. She added, 'Don't take your kid's word for it. Dig deep. Search their rooms. Don't trust — and that sounds horrible, but it could save their life.' A GoFundMe started to help the O'Rourke family with hospital bills, burial and therapy costs, and to spread awareness about huffing has surpassed its $5,000 goal and sits at over $9,000 at the time of publication.

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