AI test predicts breast cancer recurrence in hours, not weeks, across 3,500 patients

From medicalxpress.com

By New York University 

In recent years, notable advances have been made in diagnosing and treating breast cancer. However, its recurrence continues to plague thousands, deepening the need to find ways to better predict the likelihood of its return.

In a paper in the journal Nature Communications, a team of researchers reports the creation of an AI test that predicts the risk of breast cancer recurrence, one that does so more quickly and inexpensively than current methods, which involve genomic testing.

"Breast cancer is not a single disease, and decisions about how aggressively to treat it are often difficult," explains Krzysztof J. Geras, a visiting scholar at NYU's Center for Data Science and an adjunct assistant professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, who led the work. "This research shows that an AI test can read the same tumour slides pathologists already examine and, combined with basic clinical details, accurately estimate how likely a patient's cancer is to return."

"The model's accuracy doesn't come from hand-labelled data alone," adds Yann LeCun, Jacob T. Schwartz Chaired Professor of Computer Science and Data Science at New York University and one of the paper's authors. "It comes from self-supervised pretraining that lets it learn rich representations first, which then translate into strong downstream performance—a recipe that should generalize far beyond breast cancer and, more broadly, is the kind of new AI science these hard problems demand."

Overview of the self-supervised learning method DINOv2 applied to digital pathology. Credit: Nature Communications 

Limits of genomic testing

Genomic tests used today assess how likely a patient's hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer is to recur and whether the patient is likely to benefit from chemotherapy. However, this costly method can take weeks to generate results. Moreover, this testing requires examining and then discarding the tissue samples extracted as part of a lumpectomy or mastectomy, thereby preventing them from being used for future testing.

In seeking an alternative predictive tool, the authors developed and evaluated a multimodal AI test by drawing from 15 patient populations across seven countries.

They built the AI test by considering pathology slides—microscopic tissue samples on glass used to spot diseases—combined with routine clinical data such as tumour stage, patient age and hormone-receptor status.

Performance across cancer subtypes

The researchers then evaluated the test's efficacy using data from more than 3,500 patients. They used standard statistical methods to gauge its accuracy: the C-index, which assesses how well a predictive model discriminates between patients, and a hazard ratio, which compares the risk of an event (in this case, breast cancer) occurring in one group compared with another over time.

Overall, the AI test reliably separated higher- from lower-risk patients. It also performed well in evaluating the probability of recurrence in two types of breast cancer—triple-negative and HER2-positive—that currently have no reliable genomic test.

The researchers emphasize the need for evaluation in completed randomized clinical trials to build confidence in using the AI test to assess future breast cancer risk and to guide treatment. However, they see the work as meaningful progress toward using AI to help combat an affliction that plagues millions.

Faster answers from existing slides

"In testing on thousands of patients, our AI test matched or outperformed a widely used genomic test," says Geras, who is also co-founder and chief scientific officer of Ataraxis AI, a company that uses AI to develop cancer treatments and diagnoses. "Because it relies on existing slides, it could deliver answers in hours instead of weeks, at lower cost, while sparing tissue for future testing."

https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-07-ai-breast-cancer-recurrence-hours.html

12 foods that can help reduce the risk of dementia

From restless.co.uk

The brain is the control centre of the body. It keeps our heart beating and lungs breathing, and allows us to move, think, and feel. While cognitive function can naturally slow down later in life, certain lifestyle factors, like diet, can impact our risk of age-related cognitive decline and dementia.

Interestingly, research estimates that over 75% of the brain changes that lead to dementia could be connected to lifestyle. What’s more, studies suggest that eating certain foods can reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease by up to 53%.

With this in mind, we’ve pulled together a list of 12 foods that can help reduce the risk of dementia.

1. Fatty fish

Fatty fish, like tuna, salmon, trout, and sardines, are often at the top of any brain-boosting foods list because they’re rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

The brain is made up of fat, about half of which is composed of omega-3 fatty acids. These are important for building brain and nerve cells and play a key role in learning and memory.

Research has shown that omega-3s can slow age-related mental decline and help prevent the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Low levels of omega-3s have been linked with learning impairments and depression.

Other studies suggest that people who regularly eat fatty fish tend to have more grey matter in their brains. This is mostly made of the nerve cells that control memory, decision-making, and emotion.

You only need to eat fatty fish once a week to enjoy the health benefits. For inspiration, check out these 10 oily fish recipes from The Guardian. You’ll find quick and easy lunch recipes like mackerel pâté on toast and whitebait fritters, and delicious dinner ideas like fresh trout salad and smoked salmon pasta.

2. Coffee

If a cup of coffee is the highlight of your morning, there’s good news. The two main components of coffee – caffeine and antioxidants – can help support brain health.

The immediate effects of caffeine include increased alertness, greater concentration, and improved mood. And research suggests the cognitive effects of drinking coffee include a reduced risk of neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Studies indicate the greatest risk reduction is in adults who drink three to four cups of coffee per day.

That said, having too much caffeine has been shown to cause side effects like anxiety, insomnia, increased urination, and digestive issues, so it’s important not to overdo it. Experts note that four to five cups a day is generally fine for most people.

For inspiration, check out our article: 10 ways to upgrade your morning coffee routine. 

3. Blueberries

Blueberries are a ‘superfood’ that provides several brain health benefits. Like other deeply coloured berries, they contain anthocyanins – a group of plant compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Antioxidants help prevent inflammation and oxidative stress (when the body has an imbalance of cells, known as free radicals, that can cause damage), both of which can contribute to cognitive ageing and neurodegenerative diseases.

Studies have shown that some antioxidants in blueberries can accumulate in the brain and may improve communication between brain cells. Plus, this scientific review concluded that blueberries can help improve memory and cognitive processes in older adults.

Blueberries are delicious on their own and make great additions to various dishes. Hopefully, one of these 56 healthy ways to eat more blueberries from Greatist will inspire you. From healthy blueberry muffins, breakfast bars, and smoothies, to blueberry guacamole and quinoa salad, there’s something for everyone.

To enjoy the health benefits, experts recommend eating blueberries at least twice a week.

4. Turmeric

Turmeric is a deep yellow spice and a key ingredient in many curry powders. Curcumin – the active ingredient in turmeric – has been shown to cross the blood-brain barrier, directly entering the brain and protecting cells against age-related decline.

Studies have suggested that curcumin could help clear amyloid plaques (a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease) in the brain. It’s also thought to help brain cells grow and delay age-related cognitive decline.

Nevertheless, it’s worth remembering that most research uses highly concentrated curcumin supplements. These contain much more curcumin than most people typically consume when using turmeric as a spice, which contains around 2-9% curcumin.

So, while seasoning your food with turmeric can be beneficial, the full benefits can only be gained by taking a curcumin supplement. However, we always recommend speaking to your GP before adding a new supplement to your diet.

For further information, why not read our article: 8 health benefits of turmeric and how to add it to your diet?

5. Avocado

Avocados have various properties that make them a great option for boosting brain health and reducing dementia risk.

Rich in monounsaturated fats, avocados can help lower blood pressure and boost blood flow, both of which have been shown to reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Monounsaturated fats are also known to help prevent insulin resistance and fight type 2 diabetes, a risk factor for Alzheimer’s.

Plus, avocados are high in folate and potassium. Folate is thought to prevent the development of brain tangles linked to Alzheimer’s, while potassium, when combined with omega-3s, may help lower blood pressure.

Lastly, avocados are rich in vitamin K, an important nutrient linked to dementia prevention, as it can improve blood flow to the brain.

For ideas and inspiration on how to incorporate more avocados into your diet, why not try making one of these healthy avocado recipes from BBC Good Food? From quesadillas to linguine, there’s hopefully something for everyone.

6. Pumpkin seeds

Pumpkin seeds are full of powerful antioxidants that can protect the body and brain from free radical damage.

They’re also rich in iron, magnesium, copper, and zinc – all of which are important for brain health.

For example, zinc and copper play an essential role in nerve signalling. Studies have linked zinc deficiency with various neurological conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, depression, and Parkinson’s disease.

Meanwhile, magnesium is key for learning and memory, and iron deficiency can lead to brain fog and compromised brain function.

Pumpkin seeds are delicious when sprinkled over colourful salads and crunchy granola. Have a look at these pumpkin seed recipes from BBC Good Food for inspiration. You could try a seeded wholemeal loaf or a superfood salad.

7. Broccoli

Broccoli is packed with powerful antioxidants and is rich in vitamin K. Just half a cup (125mL) of cooked broccoli delivers more than 100% of the recommended daily vitamin K intake.

Vitamin K is essential for forming sphingolipids – a type of fat closely packed into brain cells. Studies in older adults have also shown that increased vitamin K intake is linked with better memory and cognitive function.

Another benefit of broccoli is that it contains various compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. These can help protect the brain against damage.

Experts suggest eating at least two servings of broccoli a week, and six or more servings for the greatest brain benefits. If you’re not a fan of broccoli, you can always pick an alternative from the cruciferous vegetable family, such as spinach, kale, or cabbage.

Why not try making one of these delicious cruciferous vegetable recipes from A Couple Cooks?

8. Dark chocolate

Dark chocolate and cocoa powder are full of brain-boosting compounds, including caffeine and flavonoids (antioxidants).

Flavonoids gather in areas of the brain that regulate learning and memory. And experts have suggested that these compounds can improve memory and slow down age-related mental decline.

This study found that those who ate dark chocolate frequently performed better on a series of mental tasks, including improved memory function.

Aside from its brain health benefits, dark chocolate is also a proven mood booster. This study found that people who ate chocolate experienced more positive feelings than those who ate crackers.

Dark chocolate contains at least 70% cocoa, so unfortunately, the same benefits aren’t seen in milk chocolate, which only contains 10–50% cocoa – or in white chocolate, which contains no cocoa at all.

If you’re in the mood for some chocolate, you could try making these healthy dark chocolate treats from This Healthy Table, which are quick to make and topped with pomegranate, orange, and pistachios. Or, check out these healthy recipes from Better Homes and Gardens.

9. Nuts

The brain-boosting benefits of nuts may not be immediately obvious because they’re mainly associated with improved heart health. However, the heart and brain are intrinsically linked – and research shows that a healthy heart can slow cognitive ageing.

One study found that older adults who consumed mixed nuts over 16 weeks displayed improved memory and brain function.

These benefits can be traced back to the various nutrients in nuts, including healthy fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants. For example, vitamin E protects cells against free-radical damage and slows mental decline.

While all nuts benefit brain health, research suggests walnuts may have an edge because they’re also rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. To reap the full benefits of eating nuts for brain health, experts recommend eating them at least five times a week.

You can read more about the best nuts to eat on the British Heart Foundation’s website.

10. Oranges

You can get almost all the recommended daily vitamin C intake from one medium-sized orange. Research shows that vitamin C is essential for brain health and a key factor in preventing cognitive decline.

For example, this study found that a higher level of vitamin C in the blood was associated with improved performance in tasks centred on memory, focus, attention, and decision-making speed.

Vitamin C is also a powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals and prevents damage to brain cells. This is important for protecting brain cells as we age and can help reduce the risk of conditions like anxiety, depression, and Alzheimer’s disease.

You’ll find many delicious, healthy orange recipes on the EatingWell website. If you don’t like oranges, foods like kiwis, bell peppers, tomatoes, guava, and strawberries also contain high amounts of vitamin C. Why not try one of EatingWell’s healthy vitamin C-rich recipes?

11. Eggs

Eggs are a great source of several nutrients linked to brain health, including vitamins B12 and B6, choline, and folate. Choline is an important micronutrient the body uses to create acetylcholine (a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and memory).

Studies have linked higher choline intake with improved verbal memory. However, many people don’t get enough choline through their diet.

A good way to boost your choline intake is to eat eggs because the yolks are one of the most concentrated sources of it. The recommended daily intake is 425mg per day for most women and 550mg for men. A single egg yolk contains around 115mg.

Research has also found that the B vitamins in eggs may help slow cognitive decline in older adults. They help lower homocysteine levels – an amino acid linked to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

For some new ways to enjoy eggs, why not check our list of 10 quick and easy egg recipes?

12. Green tea

Just like coffee, the caffeine in green tea boosts brain function. Studies have shown that green tea can improve memory, alertness, performance, and focus.

Green tea is full of antioxidant-rich polyphenols. This is also important, as research suggests these protect the brain from cognitive decline and reduce Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s risk.

Green tea is available in various flavours and contains zero calories when unsweetened. You can browse green tea varieties on Amazon*.

And for more information, check out our article: The health benefits of 9 different types of tea.

Final thoughts…

What we eat can directly impact brain health and cognitive function. By making quick and easy diet tweaks, it could be well within our power to reduce our chances of developing dementia later in life. So why not start today?

For more health and lifestyle tips, head over to our health, diet and nutrition sections. Here, you’ll find everything from how exercise can lead to better brain health to science-backed activities that can keep your brain healthy.

https://restless.co.uk/health/healthy-body/foods-that-can-help-reduce-the-risk-of-dementia/?utm_source=trigger&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=eml_trig_healthy_body_retarget_v2&utm_content=eml_trig_eng_healthy_body_retarget_commercial_order_25-09-16_test

Melatonin may ease chronic pain, study finds

From medicalxpress.com 

A sleep supplement widely used to treat insomnia could help reduce reliance on some of the most common and potentially harmful pain medications, new research from the University of Sydney suggests.

Published in PAIN, the study found melatonin can reduce chronic musculoskeletal pain, with effects in a similar range to medications such as opioids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and paracetamol.

With musculoskeletal pain affecting up to 47% of people globally, the findings point to a low-cost, widely available option that could shift how chronic pain is managed.

                                                                                                  Credit: Kindel Media from Pexels

Melatonin for chronic pain

"Melatonin is already in people's homes, it's inexpensive, and we know it's safe," said lead author and Ph.D. student Kangchao Wu from the Musculoskeletal Research Hub at the Charles Perkins Center and the School of Health Sciences.

"What's exciting is that melatonin may also help manage chronic pain, opening the door to reducing reliance on medications that come with more risks."

The research highlights the growing potential of drug repurposing—using existing treatments in new ways to deliver faster, more accessible health benefits.

"We're taking a medication we already understand and applying it to a problem that affects a huge proportion of the global population," said co-author Professor Paulo Ferreira, director of the Musculoskeletal Research Hub.

The study analysed data from 2,028 adults across 23 randomized controlled trials conducted in countries including the United States, Russia, Brazil, Egypt and China. Participants included people with conditions such as low back pain, osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia, as well as those recovering from surgeries including joint replacements and spinal procedures.

On average, the study found that melatonin reduced pain by around 9 points on a 0–100 scale, with the most rigorous trials showing reductions closer to 10 points, a similar magnitude to widely used pain medications.

The supplement also improved sleep quality, reinforcing the well-established link between pain and sleep.

"For many patients, pain doesn't exist in isolation and is closely tied to poor sleep," Wu said.

"Melatonin appears to target both, which makes it particularly useful for people managing chronic pain."

Across the trials, the dose and timing of melatonin varied depending on the condition and setting. For chronic musculoskeletal pain, doses typically ranged from 3 to 10 mg, with 3 mg per day the most commonly used. For postoperative pain, doses ranged from 1 to 10 mg, with 5 to 6 mg most common. Melatonin was generally taken at bedtime or up to one hour before sleep.

The researchers did not find evidence of a clear dose-response relationship, meaning no single "best" dose can be recommended from the current evidence.

https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-06-melatonin-ease-chronic-pain.html