Description

In this second issue of Focus on Cancer Medicine we continue to demonstrate our
commitment to publishing the results of smaller studies and case reports as well as authoritative
reviews on cancer topics. We would welcome contributions from oncologists, palliative care
physicians, radiologists, surgery and the nursing profession on any subject with a cancer focus.
Contributions from non-uk readers are also very welcome. We are aware that many smaller
clinical trials, audits and case series are not considered by the larger mainline cancer journals, and
the information and lessons learnt are lost forever. In particular, studies with so called negative
results (those where the outcome of the intervention is not better than the standard treatment) are
often not considered attractive to some mainstream publishers or to some interested parties, and
this can lead to a publication bias towards positive results. This is not a healthy way to approach
the evaluation of new intervention and treatments and we would like to see more contributions
along these lines, so that a true picture in a particular area of research is allowed to emerge.

Similarly case reports are often not considered worthy of publication because of their lack of
statistical integrity. However, they can be invaluable, especially in rare cancers or scenarios, so
that clinical experience is shared with colleagues in diffi cult situations that may never be subject
to a classical randomised controlled trial.

Finally, however, the Editorial Board would like to point out that studies with large statistical
power and positive treatment outcomes will also be considered for publication subject to vigorous
peer review!