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The jury is still out on whether chemotherapy before breast cancer surgery fuels metastasis. Studies conducted thus far have been inconclusive, and the results have been mixed.
A literature review by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) looked at sixteen studies regarding this topic across different metastatic subtypes, treatments, and follow-up periods to assess if chemotherapy before surgical treatment increases metastases. In most cases they found no association between preoperative chemotherapy and increased risk of distant metastases or mortality rates after 5 years; however, there was a statistically significant increase in locoregional recurrence when comparing neoadjuvant therapy with local surgery alone in selected subgroups.
Furthermore, additional research suggests that although distant metastasis does not seem to be impacted by preoperative chemotherapies, certain tumor characteristics (e.g., those involving estrogen receptor [ER] positive/HER2 negative breast cancers) may benefit from them due to their ability to reduce locoregional recurrence rates without increasing the risk for distant relapse or mortality once combined with other systemic treatments such as hormone therapy or trastuzumab-based regimens.
In conclusion, although there are some indications that preoperative chemotherapy can lead to increased risk of locoregional recurrences in patients with specific tumor characteristics, more research is needed before concluding that it will substantially increase a patient's risk for developing distal relapse and mortality postoperatively compared with surgery alone - making decisions concerning preoperative chemotherapeutic use still subject to much debate among medical practitioners today.
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Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
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Secondmedic Expert
Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:
1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.
2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.
3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.
4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.
5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.
6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.
7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.
Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.
Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.