Latitude, seasonality, and circadian determinants of outcomes of systemic cancer therapy: Evidence from chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and chemo-immunotherapy combinations. A systematic review.
A Ghidini, L Roncari, R Bukovec et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review evaluated the impact of treatment timing, seasonality, geographic latitude, and vitamin D status on the efficacy and toxicity of systemic cancer therapies. The review included 35 studies, revealing that chronomodulated chemotherapy reduced toxicity and sometimes improved response, while earlier administration of immune checkpoint inhibitors was linked to longer overall survival. However, survival effects varied and were often sex-dependent.
Key findings
- Chronomodulated chemotherapy consistently reduced toxicity and sometimes improved response/time-to-progression.
- Earlier immune checkpoint inhibitor administration was associated with longer overall survival and progression-free survival.
- Seasonal and latitude analyses indicated worse outcomes in winter and at higher latitudes.
- Higher vitamin D levels during immunotherapy correlated with improved survival.
Why it matters
Understanding the influence of timing, seasonality, and vitamin D status on cancer treatment outcomes can help optimize therapeutic strategies and improve patient care. This knowledge may lead to more personalized treatment approaches in oncology.