| Theme | Clinical Gastroenterology -- Past 30 Years and Future Vision | |
|---|---|---|
| Title | History and Future of Chemotherapy for Gastrointestinal Tract | |
| Publish Date | 2015/01 | |
| Author | Yasuhiro Shimada | Department of Clinical Oncology, Kochi Health Sciences Center |
| [ Summary ] | History of systemic chemotherapy for gastrointestinal tract cancer may begin with administration of 5‒fluorouracil (5‒FU). The induction of modern chemotherapy drugs and molecular target drugs has brought about remarkable prolongation of overall survival times of ever 30 months. The methodologies for clinical studies or the induction of treatment guidelines has contributed to improvements in treatment outcomes. On the other hand, adverse effects and medical costs brought on by the recent progress in hemotherapy are newly recognized problems exacerbated by the increasing number of elderly cancer patients. We must find the best for our choices for our daily practices based on direct observation and communication with our patients. | |