When cancer spreads to the peritoneal cavity, where the stomach and intestines are located, the prognosis is typically poor. In many cases, peritoneal cancer is discovered at an advanced stage, and survival rates can be as low as three months. Such cancers appear as many tiny nodules on the outside of organs in the cavity, making surgical removal difficult. One option is to introduce chemotherapy drugs directly into the cavity, where they can bathe the outside of the organs. Heating the fluid containing the drug to approximately 43 degrees Celsius has been shown to improve effectiveness in killing the cancer. However, even with these enhancements, the treatment only helps a small proportion of patients. There is a clear need for more effective therapies.

This animation has been prepared by the ALK Positive Lung Cancer charity and is intended for patients who have been diagnosed with ALK+ non-small cell lung cancer, most of whom are diagnosed at stage 4. Patients have the right to accurate and up-to-date information on their prognosis, treatment and care from their medical team and patient organisations. Being informed and empowered to participate in shared decisions about their own treatment can be hugely beneficial for patients, and this animation will cover some of the topics that patients may have questions about.

If you have recently been diagnosed with ALK+ lung cancer, you likely have many questions. This short animation will discuss what ALK+ lung cancer is, common symptoms, and some commonly prescribed treatments. We will also include information for carers of those with ALK+ lung cancer and discuss the value of other forms of support, such as attending support groups, and making lifestyle choices that can help you to maintain physical and mental wellbeing.

Many diseases can emerge as we age, with metabolic disorders such as diabetes, and neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease, representing two reasonably common age-related illnesses. Many age-related diseases share common underlying mechanisms, including inflammation, a build-up of reactive oxygen molecules that can damage cellular components, and insulin insensitivity. Treatments that can target these mechanisms could have transformational effects on age-related diseases.

Peripapillary intra-choroidal cavitation – or PICC – is a lesion that occurs at the back of the eye. This lesion is much more common in people with short-sightedness. PICC lesions occur around an area called the optic disc, where the optic nerve leaves the eyeball. While PICC is considered benign, it is frequently associated with visual defects resembling those seen in glaucoma, leading to diagnostic confusion. There is a need to better understand the condition to chart a path forward. Professor Adèle Ehongo and Dr Noélie Bacq of Erasmus Hospital in Brussels have written a review covering the latest data on PICC. Their goal is to pave the way for a greater understanding of PICC and its associated changes, to aid the development of new treatments.