Latest news with #MichaelBolton
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Brain cancer patients who received this pain medication lived longer, study shows
Glioblastoma, the most aggressive and deadly type of brain cancer, is known to have a very poor prognosis — but a new study suggests that a pain-relieving drug could extend survival. Researchers at Mass General Brigham have found that an already-approved medication — a pain reliever and anti-seizure medication called gabapentin — has been linked to improved survival in patients with glioblastoma. The findings were published in Nature Communications last week. Michael Bolton Had Strange Symptoms Before Brain Cancer Diagnosis: 'Something's Wrong' Inspired by previous mouse studies that showed gadapentin's potential in targeting tumors, the researchers studied the medical outcomes of nearly 700 patients with glioblastoma. Many of them had already been taking gabapentin to alleviate nerve pain, according to a press release from MGB. Read On The Fox News App The patients who were taking the drug survived four months longer than those who were not — 16 months compared to 12 months — which was described as "statistically significant." "Ultimately, our goal was to highlight the emerging role of cancer neuroscience in GBM progression and emphasize the importance of exploring creative strategies to therapeutically target this evolving neural-tumor axis," lead author Joshua Bernstock, MD, PhD, a clinical fellow in the Department of Neurosurgery at Brigham and Women's Hospital, told Fox News Digital. Breast Cancer Drug Could Help Prolong Survival For Children With Brain Tumors, Study Finds The team was surprised by the survival benefit, Bernstock noted. "It's always incredible to see a hypothesis come to life," he said. "I was also really pleased to see the decrease in serum TSP-1 levels in the UCSF cohort, potentially positioning it as a biomarker of response." Based on the initial findings, Bernstock reached out to researchers at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) to study more glioblastoma patients. Among the 379 patients at USCF, the same outcome was observed — the ones who were taking gabapentin lived 20.8 months on average, compared to 14.7 months for those not taking the drug. "Across both cohorts (1,072 patients total), gabapentin use was consistently associated with a statistically significant improvement in survival," Bernstock told Fox News Digital. The researchers also noticed that the gadapentin group had lower levels of a protein called TSP-1, which is found in the blood serum, a finding that "needs further investigation." "There have been very few advances in survival for GBM patients since the early 2000s," Bernstock said in the release. "We need to think more creatively about the emerging biology in these tumors and how to target them." The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) initially approved gadapentin in December 1993 to treat seizure activity in adults; the approval was extended to include children in 2000. Two years later, the agency approved gadapentin for nerve pain following shingles, according to the agency. The drug is often prescribed for off-label use to treat a range of pain conditions, studies show. Some of the more common side effects of gadapentin include fatigue, headache, dizziness, fever, nausea and vomiting, memory loss, trouble speaking, weight gain, vision problems, movement problems and recurring infections, according to Cleveland Clinic. Certain medications may interact with gadapentin. Patients should speak with a doctor if they experience severe or persistent side effects, experts recommend. The study did have some limitations, chiefly that it is retrospective and was not controlled. "While the findings are promising, the study is retrospective — patients were not given gabapentin in a controlled, randomized manner to directly assess its effects," Bernstock told Fox News Digital. "As such, larger prospective clinical trials are needed to validate these results and to further investigate the role of gabapentin and TSP-1 in GBM progression." Click Here To Sign Up For Our Health Newsletter Bernstock said he is "cautiously optimistic" by the findings. "While gabapentin is FDA-approved and generally well-tolerated, it's not appropriate to change clinical practice based on these findings alone without a controlled study, something our collaborators at UCSF are working on," he said. "That said, in GBM patients who develop neuropathic pain or seizures post-craniotomy, there may be a rationale to consider gabapentin more readily than other agents." For more Health articles, visit Glioblastoma — described by Bernstock as "a relentlessly progressive and nearly universally fatal disease" — is the most common type of primary brain cancer, according to Mayo Clinic. The disease claims the lives of around 14,500 Americans each year. The five-year survival rate is just 6.9%.Original article source: Brain cancer patients who received this pain medication lived longer, study shows
Malay Mail
07-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Malay Mail
Cancer Diaries: Might lose the boob after all and finding comfort in Michael Bolton
MAY 7 — While you are reading this I will be in the hospital spending another day doing immunotherapy. My latest tests show my heart is holding up despite all the cancer drugs it has had to endure, so that's good news at least. However my latest mammogram and ultrasound have findings that could affect my surgery — whether it happens or if I end up getting a mastectomy instead of a lumpectomy. Speaking of Wednesdays, as a Wednesday baby I find it an amusing coincidence that my column and my chemotherapy sessions also happen to be on those days. The universe has a sense of humour, I suppose. I don't think I need to tell you what day my surgery's scheduled now, do I? Besides a successful surgery to remove the cancer, Michael Bolton has gone through chemotherapy and radiation as well as a second surgery due to an infection. — Picture via Facebook/ Michael Bolton Now it seems my schedule could be up in the air and I'm despondent, but well, we'll see what happens next week. In other news, singer Michael Bolton, I found out, had brain cancer and the most aggressive sort — glioblastoma. He told People: 'Succumbing to the challenge is not an option. You're really quickly drawn into a duel. I guess that's the way you find out what you're made of.' Besides a successful surgery to remove the cancer, he's gone through chemotherapy and radiation as well as a second surgery due to an infection. He's chosen not to find out his prognosis, instead taking regular scans (glioblastoma has an over 90 per cent recurrence rate), exercising, taking voice lessons and doing voice therapy online. I do think it's important to point out that Bolton is perhaps privileged in the fact that he is financially comfortable enough to not have to worry about the costs of his treatment. Still, he does make a point when he made the following observation about how post-cancer treatment he finds comfort in general more easily, having a 'heightened sense of appreciation.' 'It's unthinkable for it to be okay not to make the most of your life,' he said. 'I think we develop capabilities and problem management, and we learn how to make the best out of a bad situation. You have to be a cheerleader for yourself.' Reading stories from other cancer patients like Bolton's gives me both comfort and perspective. Comfort in being reminded that I'm not the only one dealing with this and perspective in that by many metrics I'm luckier than most. At the same time, I don't want to sugarcoat the cancer experience in this column. Chemotherapy can be hard and painful, the frequent visits and long waiting times are wearying on body and soul and side effects are going to vary for everyone. Reading about Bolton's treatment, I'm thinking good for him, for getting through chemotherapy and radiation because it can't be easy at his age. The truth of the matter is also that cancer treatments don't always help prolong a person's life so it's important to consult with your doctor about whether the cancer treatments are worth the toll they will put on your body. In my case it was straightforward. I am 'young' (by public hospital standards since the average person you see in one is geriatric), have no drug allergies, have no other comorbidities besides borderline high blood pressure and my cancer isn't very complex — early stage, only one major tumour detected. Whatever happens next week I have no choice for now but to wait and see. Worrying won't change anything and I'll just have to keep doing what I've been doing — crossing every bridge as it comes instead of worrying that it will collapse. I'm still here, still living as best as I can and part of that is thanks to the support of many people in my life. Uncertainty can be terrifying but for now, I'll leave tomorrow's worries for tomorrow, and have a cookie today. * This is the personal opinion of the columnist.
Yahoo
06-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Hepatitis A outbreak declared in LA County
Yahoo is using AI to generate takeaways from this article. This means the info may not always match what's in the article. Reporting mistakes helps us improve the experience. Yahoo is using AI to generate takeaways from this article. This means the info may not always match what's in the article. Reporting mistakes helps us improve the experience. Yahoo is using AI to generate takeaways from this article. This means the info may not always match what's in the article. Reporting mistakes helps us improve the experience. Generate Key Takeaways The Brief The outbreak is due to increased cases and elevated virus levels in wastewater. In 2024, 165 cases were reported, tripling the 2023 figures. Despite higher risks among unhoused individuals, recent cases in 2025 mostly involve people without travel or housing risk factors. LOS ANGELES - The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has declared a community-wide outbreak of hepatitis A due to a significant increase in cases and elevated virus levels in local wastewater. What we know In 2024, LA County reported 165 hepatitis A cases, three times the number from 2023. In 2025, 29 cases have been confirmed, mostly among individuals without travel or housing risk factors. SUGGESTED: Michael Bolton details brain cancer battle in new interview The increase in cases correlates with higher hepatitis A concentrations in wastewater. What they're saying Dr. Muntu Davis, Los Angeles County Health Officer, stated, "The ongoing increase in hepatitis A cases signals that quick action is needed to protect public health. The hepatitis A vaccine is safe, effective, and offers long-term protection." Residents are urged to get vaccinated and practice regular handwashing, especially before eating and after using the bathroom. What's next Public Health is actively monitoring and investigating suspect cases, collaborating with healthcare providers and organizations serving the homeless to promote vaccination and awareness. Free hepatitis A vaccines are offered through mobile units to those experiencing homelessness. SUGGESTED: Dog detects woman's breast cancer before doctors: 'He knew all along' Residents are encouraged to check their vaccination status and seek vaccination if unvaccinated or at high risk. About Hepatitis A Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. It spreads through ingestion of contaminated objects, food, or drinks. SUGGESTED: New blood test unveiled to enhance detection of common cancers Vaccination is the best preventive measure, and immune globulin may be recommended for certain individuals after exposure. For more information, residents can contact the Public Health InfoLine at 1-833-540-0473. The Source Information for this story is from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.
South China Morning Post
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- South China Morning Post
Who are Michael Bolton's ex-wife and 3 daughters? Maureen McGuire married Bolton before his fame in the 1970s and they divorced in 1990, with Bolton receiving custody of their children
Grammy award-winning artist Michael Bolton recently shared a Christmas family photo on Facebook amid his ongoing cancer battle The photo featured Bolton, looking cosy with a Santa hat on, surrounded by his loved ones. Michael Bolton celebrated the holidays with his family. Photo: Michael Bolton/Facebook Advertisement The 72-year-old singer first revealed that he had been diagnosed with a brain tumour in January 2023 and had to undergo immediate surgery. Two months after the initial post Bolton shared another update with his fans, writing: 'I've been enjoying the company of my daughters and grandkids during this time at home, and on my putting green whenever it's not raining!' Here's everything to know about Michael Bolton's ex-wife of 15 years and daughters. Who is Maureen McGuire? Michael Bolton with ex-wife Maureen McGuire. Photo: @hollydbolton/Instagram Maureen McGuire began dating Bolton in 1973 and the pair married only two years later, a decade before the 'When a Man Loves A Woman' crooner found success in the late 1980s. They were both still in their early 20s when they decided to wed. Bolton later went on to say in a 2019 interview with The Sydney Morning Herald: 'By my late 20s I was already married and had three daughters. Guys in their 20s don't have a clue who they are as human beings.' 'Men don't get around to that until their 30s or 40s, which is roughly 10 years later than most women, who seem to know exactly who they are,' he added.
Yahoo
03-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Michael Bolton had strange symptoms before brain cancer diagnosis: ‘Something's wrong'
A Grammy-winning singer and his family have revealed the surprising early symptoms of his brain cancer. Michael Bolton, who was diagnosed in December 2023 with glioblastoma — the most aggressive and fastest-growing form of brain cancer — first exhibited signs that something was amiss the month prior, according to his daughters. During a family night at the bowling alley, Bolton, 72, bowled out of turn several times, they told People during a recent interview. Michael Bolton's Brain Cancer Treatments Have Harsh Side Effects, But Succumbing Is 'Not An Option' That same night, the singer had also fallen out of his chair, which was "very unusual," Taryn, 45, told the outlet. "He's super athletic, and he doesn't drink," she said. "So he fell, and we were like, 'What just happened?'" Read On The Fox News App "That was when we were like, 'Something's wrong with his brain." Looking back now, Bolton's daughters recognize "so many things" they missed. New Prostate Cancer Test Pinpoints Disease Better Than Psa Option, Study Finds Earlier that fall, the Grammy winner had struggled to keep his balance and experienced nausea while performing at a charity event. His daughters had assumed the strange symptoms were due to lack of sleep or excess stress, they said. "He'd been working nonstop that whole time," Taryn recalled while speaking to People. "Traveling, doing shows, doing all of these things. We were like, he's getting older, he's tired, he's stressed out. All of these things we sort of explained in a way, one by one." Following the strange symptoms while bowling, Bolton began experiencing headaches, his daughters shared. The following Monday, he received an MRI that detected a brain tumor, which was removed surgically and found to be glioblastoma. Alternative Cancer Treatment Could Replace Chemo And Surgery, Study Suggests While rare, glioblastoma is known for affecting people across all ages and for its fast, aggressive development, according to Michael Canney Ph.D., chief scientific officer of Carthera, a Colorado health tech company that develops medical devices to treat severe brain disorders. "Although glioblastoma's cause isn't fully known, the disease begins when genetic changes in brain cells cause them to grow out of control," Canney, who was not involved in Bolton's care, told Fox News Digital. "These cancerous cells rapidly invade surrounding brain tissue, making the tumor especially aggressive and hard to treat." Canney confirmed that the symptoms Bolton experienced — confusion, sudden falls and severe headaches — are consistent with glioblastoma warning signs. Woman Says Dog Detected Her Breast Cancer Before Doctors Did: 'He's Known This Whole Time' "Other potential red flags include nausea, memory loss, personality changes, speech difficulties and vision changes," he added. "While the symptoms of glioblastoma are not unique to this disease, anytime you or a loved one experience an unexplained change in behavior, mental awareness or motor control, it's important to see a medical professional." After surgery, Bolton completed radiation and chemotherapy, which have so far kept cancer at bay, the report noted. He receives ongoing MRIs every two months to ensure that he is still clear of tumors. Glioblastoma is among the deadliest cancers, with patients living for an average of just over a year after diagnosis. The five-year survival rate is less than 5%. "It is truly among the most tragic diseases," Canney said. Part of what makes glioblastoma so severe is its resistance to treatment, according to the expert. "Around your brain, there's a natural protective barrier called the blood-brain barrier," he told Fox News Digital. Click Here To Sign Up For Our Health Newsletter "While this barrier keeps the brain safe from toxins and other harmful substances, it also blocks the life-saving chemotherapy drugs used in treating most cancers." In some cases, including Bolton's, glioblastoma treatment can begin with surgery to remove the tumor, provided it has not grown too deeply into the brain, Canney said. Other treatment options include radiation and chemotherapy, which can "modestly extend survival," he noted. "Although current treatment options are limited, a number of clinical trials are underway that give us an immense sense of hope," Canney said, pointing out a new form of ultrasound-based technology that is showing promise. For more Health articles, visit "If approved, this technology will enable doctors to safely and temporarily open the blood-brain barrier for the first time ever — allowing a greater number of potentially more effective chemotherapy drugs into the brain."Original article source: Michael Bolton had strange symptoms before brain cancer diagnosis: 'Something's wrong'
