Study of Beta-Glucan in Cancer Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Alan B Weitberg
Primary Institution: Roger Williams Medical Center and Boston University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
Can beta-(1,3)/(1,6) D-glucan improve blood counts and be safely administered to patients with advanced malignancies receiving chemotherapy?
Conclusion
Beta-glucan is well-tolerated in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy and may improve blood counts.
Supporting Evidence
- No new symptoms were reported by patients while taking beta-glucan.
- 60% of patients felt a sense of well-being while on beta-glucan.
- 40% of patients reported less fatigue during chemotherapy while taking beta-glucan.
- There was a trend of improved blood counts during the study compared to pre-study counts.
Takeaway
This study tested a substance called beta-glucan in cancer patients to see if it helps their blood counts and if it's safe to use.
Methodology
Twenty patients received beta-glucan and were monitored for side effects and blood counts over six months.
Limitations
The study was uncontrolled and had a small sample size.
Participant Demographics
Patients were aged 38 to 84, with an equal number of males and females.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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