NWA Research Center Collaborated on Study of Hodgkin Lymphoma Which Is Transforming Treatment

​​Highlands Oncology Group (Highlands), Northwest Arkansas’ premier cancer treatment facility, collaborated on research of Hodgkin lymphoma which is reshaping treatment options for patients diagnosed with the disease.

The research, published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, which tested response-adapted therapy for patients with stage III and IV Hodgkin lymphoma, concluded that using PET imaging to guide chemotherapy significantly increases the remission rate while decreasing toxicity in patients with advanced stage disease. PET imaging uses a radioactive substance called a tracer to look for disease in the body.

Results indicated that 64 percent of patients who were switched to eBEACOPP treatment after a positive PET scan were in remission after two years. An editorial on the study, also published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, commended the research and predicted that the study would create new opportunities for patients with Hodgkin lymphoma.

Approximately 0.2 percent of men and women will be diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma at some point during their lifetime, based on 2010-2012 data, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI).  As such, continuous research is necessary for advancement in treatment options. In 2013, there were an estimated 193,545 people living with Hodgkin lymphoma in the United States, according to the NCI.

As the leading cancer treatment and research facility in Northwest Arkansas, Highlands is dedicated to the advancement of cancer treatment and to providing patients with the best possible care and results.

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Highlands Oncology Group is a state-of-the-art facility, with a world-class team of specialists, that is committed to providing premier cancer treatment and to enhancing the quality of life of patients and their loved ones. Highlands Oncology group provides this in a friendly, comfortable environment conveniently located in Northwest Arkansas. Highlands offers the latest technology of diagnostic imaging and radiation therapies, on-site labs, a pharmacy and an infusion center. They also offer access to clinical trials, multidisciplinary clinics and support groups. Highlands Oncology Group is helping patients win the battle against cancer every day.

For more information visit www.HighlandsOncologyGroup.com.