Bisphosphonates linked to oesophageal cancer risk

LONG-TERM bisphosphonate use has been linked to a significantly increased risk of oesophageal cancer.  Findings from a UK study reveal that the risk of oesophageal cancer was nearly doubled in those who had received 10 or more bisphosphonate prescriptions, or more than five years use, compared with non-users.  However, Australian experts are urging caution over the findings, saying the absolute risk remains low and does not outweigh the drugs’ fracture prevention benefits.  Professor John Eisman, director of osteoporosis and bone biology research at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research, said the findings warranted further research but ...

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Testing a nasal insulin vaccine

AN Australia/New Zealand-wide trial is testing whether a nasal insulin vaccine will prevent or delay the onset of type 1 diabetes. This trial, the Intranasal Insulin Trial II (INIT II), is being conducted through Melbourne Health in conjunction with the Diabetes Vaccine Development Centre and Diabetes Australia-Victoria. People aged 4-30 years who have a relative with type 1 diabetes are being recruited for the trial.  INIT II is a multi-centre, double blind, placebo-controlled trial of an intranasal insulin vaccine in people at risk for type 1 diabetes. Insulin is delivered via the nose to stimulate the mucosal immune ...