Latest news with #Pixabay
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First Post
7 hours ago
- Health
- First Post
'A gift of life': How a cancer drug doubles the survival rate
A new study has revealed that the drug called pembrolizumab, sold under the brand name Keytruda, not only kept head and neck cancers at bay for five years compared to 30 months with standard care but also significantly lowered the chances of cancer spreading read more A drug called pembrolizumab, sold under the brand name Keytruda, kept head and neck cancers at bay for five years compared to 30 months with standard care. Image for Representation. Pixabay Hundreds of thousands of patients with advanced head and neck cancer could live years longer without the disease, thanks to a breakthrough immunotherapy drug, a new clinical trial suggests. The study revealed that the drug called pembrolizumab, sold under the brand name Keytruda, kept head and neck cancers at bay for five years compared to 30 months with standard care. When added to current therapies, it could potentially double the time patients live without a recurrence, making it one of the biggest breakthroughs in two decades. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Kevin Harrington, professor of biological cancer therapies at the Institute of Cancer Research in London and lead researcher of the trial, described the development as game-changing. 'This could change the world for these patients,' he told the BBC. 'It significantly decreases the chance of cancer spreading around the body, at which point it's incredibly difficult to treat.' So, how exactly does Pembrolizumab work? And what did the trial reveal? We break it down. 'A gift of life' For Laura Marston, a 45-year-old from Derbyshire, the immunotherapy drug pembrolizumab has been nothing short of 'a gift of life'. Back in 2019, Laura noticed an ulcer on her tongue that just wouldn't heal. Tests revealed it was cancer, and doctors gave her only a 30 per cent chance of long-term survival. 'I was 39 and I was devastated,' she told the BBC. The road ahead was tough. She had to undergo major surgery to remove her tongue and the lymph nodes in her neck. After that came the even harder part, learning how to talk and eat again. 'My prognosis was quite dire,' she recalled. Surgeons had to use muscle from her left arm to rebuild the inside of her mouth. It changed her life in every way. But amid the struggle, there was hope. Laura joined an international clinical trial testing a new approach to treatment, one that used pembrolizumab not just after surgery, but also before it. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Patients who received pembrolizumab lived cancer-free for twice as long, five years on average, compared to just 2.5 years with standard treatment. Representational Image/Pixabay The clinical trial, led by researchers at Washington University School of Medicine and involving scientists from the Institute of Cancer Research in London, enrolled over 700 patients across 24 countries. The trial, which is being presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (Asco), the world's largest cancer conference, showed that the patients who received pembrolizumab lived cancer-free for twice as long, five years on average, compared to just 2.5 years with standard treatment. The drug also cut the chances of the cancer returning elsewhere in the body by 10 per cent after three years. 'Immunotherapy has been amazingly beneficial for patients whose cancer has come back or spread,' said Harrington, who co-led the study, told The Guardian. 'But until now, it hadn't shown this kind of success in people being treated for the first time.' Today, six years after her diagnosis, Laura is working full-time and doing well. 'It's been phenomenal for me,' she said. 'Because I'm here, able to talk to you. Just having this amazing immunotherapy has given me my life back again.' STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD How does the drug work? Unlike traditional cancer treatments like chemotherapy, which attack the tumour directly, immunotherapy works by boosting the body's own defences. It helps the immune system recognise cancer cells and destroy them. In this trial, researchers found that the timing of the drug was key. Patients were given pembrolizumab before surgery, allowing their immune systems to get familiar and kill the cancer if it ever comes back. 'We give the immune system the chance to have a good look at the tumour to generate anti-tumour immunity,' explained Harrington told BBC. 'Then, after removal of the tumour, we continue to amplify that immune response by giving the drug continually for up to a year.' The treatment worked especially well for people with high levels of a protein called PD-L1, which acts as a marker for how active the immune system might be. But even patients without high PD-L1 levels saw clear benefits. The risk of cancer returning or spreading dropped significantly across the board. 'This research shows that immunotherapy could change the world for these patients,' Harrington said. 'It significantly decreases the chance of cancer spreading around the body, and that's when it becomes incredibly difficult to treat.' STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD With input from agencies
India.com
19 hours ago
- Entertainment
- India.com
Horoscope Today, May 31 By Astrologer Sundeep Kochar: Virgo, Clear Communication Will Make All Difference
photoDetails english 2907831 Daily Horoscope Predictions: Check out the astrology forecast for all 12 zodiac signs by ace astrologer Dr Sundeep Kochar. As you begin a new journey, find out what the stars have in store for you today. There are twelve zodiac signs and each has its distinct features. Be it Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, or Pisces — each of the signs has something unique to tell. The astrological predictions are by Dr Sundeep Kochar. (Photo Courtesy: Pixabay) Updated:May 31, 2025, 05:26 AM IST Aries 1 / 12 You're radiating positivity today, Aries. This vibrant energy will help you tackle challenges effortlessly, both at work and in your personal life. A new creative opportunity might come your way, and you'll likely be the one leading it. You're in a great headspace — use it to your advantage. Taurus 2 / 12 Slow and steady wins the race today, Taurus. A minor misunderstanding with someone close may leave you feeling unsettled. You may also meet someone who intrigues you, despite being quite different. Take your time — don't rush into anything, and let connections develop naturally. Gemini 3 / 12 Your close ones might feel you've been distant lately. Luckily, you're in a sociable mood today, ready to reconnect and enjoy time with friends and family. You're recharged, outgoing, and in a great place emotionally — lean into it and make meaningful memories. Cancer 4 / 12 Some important family decisions could be on the table today. Approach the situation with an open and level-headed mindset. While you may feel conflicted, try to support your loved ones and avoid letting emotions cloud your judgment. Togetherness is key. Leo 5 / 12 You're likely to discover a new passion or interest today. It's good to explore unfamiliar territory — but don't let it distract you from your long-term goals. Enjoy these hobbies for what they are and keep your career path steady and focused. Virgo 6 / 12 Clear communication will make all the difference today. Be honest, direct, and thoughtful in your interactions. A travel opportunity may come your way — don't dismiss it too quickly. Think it through, ask questions, and consider how it might benefit your future. Libra 7 / 12 Thinking of splurging on something big? Go for it. You're financially savvy today and thinking clearly. You've worked hard for what you have, and this is a smart time to invest in something meaningful. Trust yourself — you've earned it. Scorpio 8 / 12 Stay career-focused today, Scorpio. You've been working toward a goal, and today, that door finally opens. Be ready to act — have your plans and next steps clear, because this could be a major leap forward in your professional journey. Sagittarius 9 / 12 Feelings of jealousy or comparison might creep in today, Sag. Instead of letting it weigh you down, turn your focus inward. You're more than capable — remind yourself of your worth in every area of life. Confidence is your best ally right now. Capricorn 10 / 12 Your mindset will shape your day. Choose optimism, and things will naturally fall into place. Don't let negativity take over — spend a few moments in meditation or stillness to reset your thoughts. A positive outlook will attract the results you've been waiting for. Aquarius 11 / 12 You're feeling strong-willed and assertive today, but be cautious not to overpower your partner or loved ones. Avoid confrontation by expressing yourself diplomatically and listening actively. A balanced approach will prevent unnecessary tension. Pisces 12 / 12 Today's a great day to put yourself out there, Pisces. Though you've been in your shell lately, networking and socialising can bring new career opportunities — and possibly romantic sparks. Don't miss the chance to connect and expand your circle.
IOL News
2 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
Interest rate cut welcomed by motor industry amid economic pressures
The South African Reserve Bank's (SARB) decision to lower interest rates by 25 basis points – bringing rates to their lowest level in more than two years – has been welcomed by the retail motor sector. Image: Pixabay The South African Reserve Bank's (SARB) decision to lower interest rates by 25 basis points – bringing rates to their lowest level in more than two years – has been welcomed by the retail motor sector. The cut puts the repo rate at 7.25% and the prime lending rate will be 10.75%. The SARB's Monetary Policy Committee said it had decided on a cut of 25 basis points because higher trade barriers and elevated uncertainty was likely to weaken the world economy. "While the inflation outlook appears benign, we considered an adverse scenario, which illustrates the upside risks. This was based on a global slowdown, triggered by escalating trade tensions, where the rand depreciates sharply. The scenario showed how a country with some fundamental vulnerabilities, like South Africa, risks stagflation, with growth moving lower while inflation rises due to currency weakness. In these conditions, monetary policy tightens to stabilise the macroeconomy." Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Brandon Cohen, chairperson of the National Automobile Dealers' Association (NADA), said the rate cut is a "positive move at a time when South African consumers are under immense financial pressure." 'While it's not a dramatic kick-start to the economy, it does serve as a much-needed nudge in the right direction.' NADA said the reduction in interest rates, although modest, could offer some short-term relief for stretched households – particularly with the fuel levy and other cost increases looming in June. 'Even small savings on monthly bond repayments, credit cards, and vehicle finance do add up,' Cohen said. 'They can make a meaningful difference for consumers who are having to make every rand count.' The automotive industry, which has experienced subdued demand amid a flat economy, may also benefit from the easing of monetary policy. 'Historically, it takes several months before we see the effects of a rate movement reflected in vehicle sales,' Cohen added. 'A rate cut helps to build consumer confidence and creates slightly more room for discretionary spending.'
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First Post
2 days ago
- Health
- First Post
Can kissing spread depression and anxiety?
The research, published in Exploratory Research and Hypothesis in Medicine, examined the oral microbiome of 268 newly-married couples, the levels of cortisol in their saliva and their mental health. Here's what the study found about kissing leading to depression and anxiety read more They study involved examining the oral microbiome – a diverse array of microorganisms that reside in the human mouth – of 268 newly-married couples. Image courtesy: Pixabay/Representational Can kissing spread depression and anxiety? It may sounds unbelievable, but this is what a recent study has found. Researchers did so by studying the oral microbiome of over 250 newly-wedded couples. But what do we know? What did researchers find? Let's take a closer look What do we know? The research was published in Exploratory Research and Hypothesis in Medicine. It was led by independent researcher Reza Rastmanesh. As per Jerusalem Post, the entire team included researchers from Italy, India, Iran, and Great Britain. They study involved examining the oral microbiome – a diverse array of microorganisms that reside in the human mouth – of 268 newly-married couples in Iran. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 'Given that bacterial transmission can occur between spouses, this study aimed to investigate whether the transmission of oral microbiota between newlywed couples mediates symptoms of depression and anxiety,' the researchers said, as per New Atlas. As per Daily Mail, the study was conducted from February 2024 to October 2024. The study said women were more likely to be impacted than men. Image courtesy: Pixabay/Representational Patients were asked not to change any of the habits during the study. At the beginning of the study, one partner was in good mental health while the other had issues such as anxiety and depression as well as insomnia. Researchers studied the oral microbiome and measured cortisol in the saliva of all the participants on the first day of the research. They also gave the couples mental health tests and used advanced DNA sequencing techniques to examine the mouth bacteria. They then did so after six months and compared the two. What did they find? As per Daily Mail, the results found that the previously healthy spouses 'exhibited significantly higher scores for depression, anxiety, and insomnia compared to their own baseline measurements'. In short, it found that the spouses who suffered from insomnia and mental health conditions 'infected' the formerly healthy spouses. According to Hindustan Times, the mouth bacteria in the formerly healthy spouse now looked more like their unhealthy partner at the beginning of the study. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The study found bacteria such as Clostridia, Veillonella, Bacillus, and Lachnospiraceae became more widespread in both partners. These bacteria are linked to brain disorders, depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. Scientists say these bacteria impact the brain by degrading the blood-brain barrier. The study said women were more likely to be impacted than men. The study also found that levels of cortisol had increased in the formerly healthy spouses. So, what is to blame? Kissing, the researchers said. More specifically, the bacteria that was exchanged between the mouths of the spouses. 'Oral microbiota transfer between individuals in close contact, such as couples in the present study, may mediate depression and anxiety,' said the researchers, as per New Atlas. 'We found that changes in oral microbiota composition are associated with changes in the severity of insomnia, salivary cortisol levels, and depression and anxiety scores. Our findings align with previous studies on salivary cortisol levels as well as depression and anxiety scores.' At the beginning of the study, one partner was in good mental health while the other had issues such as anxiety and depression as well as insomnia. Representational image. Reuters However, the authors acknowledged several limitations with the study. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This included the fact that only Persian-peaking couples based in Iran were studied. The study also did not take into account other external factors such as major life events and dietary changes. They said more research is needed. 'Since this study is associational, further research is needed to establish whether this association is causal,' the researchers said. 'If it is determined that this association is indeed causal, it could have significant implications for contemporary research.' With inputs from agencies
Perth Now
3 days ago
- Climate
- Perth Now
SPRINKLER BAN: Remember to switch off retic from Sunday
It's time to switch off your sprinklers. Credit: edgarwinkler / Pixabay (user edgarwinkler) Oliver Lane The West Australian West Australians are being reminded to switch off their garden sprinklers from Sunday as winter officially arrives. Households who use scheme and bore water across the most of southern WA will be required to turn off their garden sprinklers or face penalties. According to the Water Corporation, the switch off saves about five billion litres of water a year, coming as water usage in Perth rose 12 per cent in 2024 while rainfall has dropped to record lows. Water Corporation demand delivery manager Damien Postma said the winter sprinkler switch-off was necessary to prepare for increased usage in summer. 'It's important we don't get complacent when it comes to being waterwise because using water efficiently is a fundamental to collective water security, especially given recent climate trends,' he said. 'This means we need to make the most of what little rainfall we do receive.'
