Cancer Knowledge 1

All You Wanted to Know about Cancer Detox System

2009-01-16T07:10:00.001-08:00

The recent cancer researches have revealed a sensational fact: it is our own system that writes out your destiny as to whether you will develop cancer in your life time and if yes when and how.How is this possible? Let's put it simply.

Following everyday metabolism, a sea of harmful chemicals is manufactured within our own body. Oxygen radicals, superoxide, free radicals, and electrophiles are a few examples of these toxic substances. These chemicals cause most of the cancers in humans. You will not believe it, but this is the fact: every second of your life, these toxic cancer-causing chemicals are produced within the cells of your body.
The outside pollutants like indirect smoking, pollutions in the work place etc stimulate the production process of these harmful chemicals in the body.

But the silver line in the cloud is that: human beings have their own built-in Cancer Detox mechanism that works every moment to protect the cells from the attack of cancer-causing chemicals. All the cells comprising human body are armed with this Cancer Detox System which is the sum total of enzymes, and other anti cancer nutrients. The body's Cancer Detox System combines the processes of oxidation, reduction, conjugation, and hydrolysis.

Let us see what are those nutrients that build up the cancer detox mechanism inside our body.
- There are vitamins such as niacin, riboflavin and vitamins A, C, E, that are the part of body's cancer detox system.
- Among the minerals, selenium, copper, zinc and manganese, are important members of the Cancer Detox mechanism. They act as co-enzyme factors too.
- The elements like carotene, lycopene and tocotrienols along with vitamins A, C, E, support the Cancer Detox System, through their anti-oxidant properties.
- Then there are the extremely helpful enzymes like superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione, epoxide hydrolase, and a few more.

Thus it is the body's Cancer Detox System, not the immune system that actually fights against cancer-causing chemicals and protects the cells.

The activities of certain nutrients needs special mention. As for example, the enzyme called glutathione has the most versatile function; with the help of a mineral called selenium it can literally detoxify almost all types of toxic chemical. Glutathione keeps on regenerated by the enzymes called NAD and FAD, which contain niacin and riboflavin.

Then, vitamin C acts as the backbone of the detox system and convert the hydroxyl radicals into harmless substances.

The cancer detox diet is based on the principle of supporting the enzymes that are the part of Cancer Detox System and to replenish the vitamins and minerals that are exhausted through the normal functions of the body and through lifestyle abuses.

As such a cancer detox diet for an average weight person comprises of l5 to 25 grams of proteins inclusive of meat, fish, fowl, cheese, egg, milk, beans, nuts, and lentils, 4 to 7 servings of grain products, 3 servings of vegetables, 3 servings of fruits and 3 servings of dairy products. To get more enhanced effect, you can take multivitamin and mineral supplements along with an anti-oxidant booster.

Colon Cancer - General Information

2008-12-12T08:10:00.001-08:00

Cancer of the colon is also called colorectal cancer as it can arise in both the colon (the lower part of the digestive tract) and in the very lowest section of the colon, which is known as the rectum. It is a serious condition that affects the colon, the rectum and the appendix. In this disease, which is often insidious in its development, malignant cells proliferate in the tissues of the colon.One of the more obvious presentations of colon cancer is chronic blood loss in the stool, often dark blood or black patches in the stools themselves. Colon cancer is among the commonest cancers in the Western world, with more than 104000 new diagnoses being made every year. The most important risk factor for colon cancer is getting older; it is most commonly diagnosed in people over the age of 50. Although many women complacently believe that bowel cancer is a man's disease, the incidence of colon cancer is essentially the same among men and women. Colon cancer is a killer, but this is because it is not caught by the medical profession at an early stage. When cancer of the colon is caught in its early stages (with little metastatic spread) it can be 100% curable. Colonic cancer is one of those unusual cancers where testing and screening can prevent the disease. Failure to do so is responsible for the high mortality rate associated with this condition. It may be assumed that patients may be partly to blame; due to the embarrassment factor many people are reluctant or afraid to have their bottoms examined, but this is not the full picture. Unfortunately, the most common symptom of colon polyps and colon cancer is no symptoms at all, so the patient can't be blamed for that.Whilst research on the genetic basis of colon cancer is ongoing, it is thought that diet plays a part. This type of cancer is encouraged by diets rich in animal fats and discouraged by diets full of vegetables. This is a reason why colon cancer is rarer in the Far East where there is less fat in the diet. Most of the time, diagnosis of localized colon cancer is made via colonoscopy, where a flexible tube is placed into the colon with a tiny camera. This procedure can be done under sedation for more squeamish patients. Another diagnostic test which can be utilized is double contrast barium enema. Once cancer has been found in the colon, staging tests are performed to find out whether the cancer has spread and, if so, to what degree. Colon cancer is staged (given a number, e.g. Stage 1, Stage 2, etc) according to the size of the tumor and if it has become invasive (spreading to surrounding tissues). Experts theorize that colon cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer - if you take the right steps. Eat a healthy, fiber-rich diet and always visit the Doctor if you have any doubts at all. Pain or discomfort in the bowel, or blood in the stool, should all be indicators that you should be examined. If regular screening is available, conquer your embarrassment and get yourself checked out. Remember - catch it early and it's 100% curable!

Breast Cancer Treatment - Exploring The Two Most Popular Alternatives

2008-12-11T05:33:00.001-08:00

Every year, more than 1.2 million people are told they have breast cancer. Very rarely, even men will develop this disease. Breast cancer is second only to heart disease as the leading killer of adult aged women in America. Thanks to recent advancements in medical science, being diagnosed with breast cancer doesn't have to be the death sentence it once was. It is now possible to detect and get breast cancer treatment done at an early stage.

Breast Cancer Treatment Stages

Breast cancer treatment depends on how advanced the cancer is. TNM Staging is commonly used worldwide to judge what treatment is necessary. Judging the tumor, or tumors, the nodes and if it has transferred to a different part of the body, also known as metastases. Once these items have been evaluated, the doctor will decide on a course of treatment.

The two main types of cancer are high grade and low grade. High-grade cancer is when there is a large risk of the cancer coming back even after surgery. In this case, chemotherapy will be prescribed once the patient has healed from surgery. Some cancer specialists may opt out of surgery if the cancer has not spread to other parts of the body beyond the breast. Since it is still in one area, chemotherapy may be the first course of treatment, which may be combined with radiotherapy.

The earlier you find the cancer, the easier it will be to treat and the more options you will have. The early stage is defined when the cancer has not spread to other places in the body outside of the breast. Depending on how far the cancer has gone, there are several types of surgical options open for breast cancer treatment.

Conservative Surgery

The most common type of surgery for breast cancer treatment is called conservative surgery. This is when the surgeon removes the diseased tissue from the breast, being careful not to take too much healthy tissue. While he is removing the cancer, a small amount of healthy tissue is removed as well. This is then sent to the lab for evaluation. If the lab reports that it is 'clear' or 'healthy', the surgeon knows he got all the cancer.

Care and Treatment for Post Breast Cancer Surgery

Hormone therapy is one of the post-surgery options you have. When the tumor is determined to be sensitive to estrogen, this is the common treatment. The higher the tumors estrogen receptor level, the more benefits will come from hormone therapy.

Another option for post surgery breast cancer treatment is chemotherapy. Depending on the size and how aggressive the cancer is, this may be used before surgery to reduce the size of the tumor.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is the most commonly used breast cancer treatment. This treatment uses drugs to destroy any cancer cells it finds. These are called anti-cancer drugs. Some chemotherapy drugs are given on their own, some are offered in combination chemotherapy doses. There are over fifty drugs used when giving chemotherapy treatments. The type of treatment received depends, again, on how far the caner has spread and where in the body it was first found.

When receiving chemotherapy, it is given in short doses, followed by periods of rest. Chemotherapy is very hard on your body and can make the patient very sick. Recovery periods are essential to the overall health of the patent. While the chemotherapy kills the cancer cells, it will leave the patient weak. Resting periods give non-cancerous cells the chance to recover.

While chemotherapy and surgery are the main ways to treat breast cancer, there are various treatments available. Research is always your best tool so you know your options when it comes to treatments and surgery. Cancer treatments are getting more successful all the time. If one type of breast cancer treatment doesn't work for you, another may. Don't give up hope!

Summary:

Cancer treatments are getting more advanced all the time. Breast cancer is second only to heart disease as the leading killer of adult aged women, with 1.2 million new cases each year. Breast cancer treatment has more options the earlier you catch it.

Characteristics and Causes of Lung Cancer

2008-12-10T06:48:00.001-08:00

Lung cancer is not just one disease but rather a group of diseases. All forms of cancer cause cells in the body to change and grow out of control. Most types of cancer cells form a lump or mass called a tumor. Cells from the tumor can break away and travel to other parts of the body where they can continue to grow.

This spreading process is called metastasis. When cancer spreads, it is still named after the part of the body where it started. For example, if breast cancer spreads to the lungs, it is still breast cancer, not lung cancer.

Another word for cancerous is malignant, so a cancerous tumor is referred to as malignant. But not all tumors are cancer. A tumor that is not cancer is called benign. Benign tumors do not grow and spread the way cancer does. They are usually not a threat to life.

A few cancers, such as blood cancers (leukemia), do not form a tumor. Most cancers are named after the part of the body where the cancer first starts. Lung cancer begins in the lungs. The lungs are two sponge-like organs in the chest. The right lung has three sections, called lobes. The left lung has two lobes. It is smaller because the heart takes up more room on that side of the body.

The lungs bring air in and out of the body, taking in oxygen and getting rid of carbon dioxide gas, a waste product. The lining around the lungs, called the pleura, helps to protect the lungs and allows them to move during breathing. The windpipe (trachea) brings air down into the lungs. It divides into tubes called bronchi, which divide into smaller branches called bronchioles. At the end of these small branches are tiny air sacs known as alveoli.

Most cancers of the lungs start in the lining of the bronchi but they can also begin in other areas such as the trachea, bronchioles, or alveoli. Lung cancer often takes many years to develop. Once the cancer occurs, cancer cells can break away and spread to other parts of the body.

Cancer of the lung is a life- threatening disease because it often spreads in this way before it is found. It is the leading cause of cancer death for both men and women. During the year 2000 there will be about 164,100 new cases of lung cancer in this country. About 156,900 people will die of this disease: about 89,300 men and 67,600 women.

More people die of cancer of the lung than of colon, breast, and prostate cancers combined. Lung cancer is fairly rare in people under the age of 40. The average age of people found to have cancer of the lungs is 60. If the cancer is found and treated by surgery early, before it has spread to lymph nodes or other organs, the five-year survival rate is about 42%.

However, few cancers of the lung are found at this early stage. The five-year survival rate for all stages of lung cancer combined was 14% in 1995, the last year for which we have national data. A risk factor is something that increases a person's chance of getting a disease. Some risk factors, like smoking, can be controlled. Others, such as a person's age, can't be changed.

Smoking is by far the leading risk factor for lung cancer. More than 8 out of 10 diagnosed cancers of the lungs are thought to result from smoking. The longer a person has been smoking, and the more packs per day smoked, the greater the risk. If a person stops smoking before cancer develops, the lung tissue slowly returns to normal. Stopping smoking at any age lowers the risk of lung cancer.

Prostate Cancer Diet:Boost Your Immunity With Isoflavones and Polyphenols

2008-12-03T07:31:00.001-08:00

One of the biggest risk factors associated with the incidence of prostate cancer is diet. The Westernized diet of red meat and saturated fat is thought to significantly contribute to the probability of an individual developing prostate cancer and so a prostate cancer diet should be started as early on in life as possible.

Men living in Eastern countries and especially Asia have a much lower incidence rate of prostate cancer than American men for example. This is possibly because Asian men eat a much healthier diet than most Americans. In addition, when Asian men relocate to a Westernized country the probability of them developing the condition gradually rises until it equals that of native men.

Hence, it would seem logical that the prostate cancer diet needs to contain all of the ingredients that are commonly found in an Eastern diet while cutting out the unhealthy saturated fats and simple carbohydrates that are found in so many Westernized foods i.e. fast foods, take-aways etc. This simple change in diet may have a tremendous effect on prostate health in general.

Researchers are currently devoting a lot of time to analysing the Eastern diet and trying to find out what it contains that makes it a good prostate cancer nutrition diet. So far the emphasis is being placed on two particular nutrients; isoflavones and polyphenols which are found in soy and green tea respectively.

Isoflavones are thought to stop the process of abnormal cell growth and so if ingested in relatively concentrated amounts can reduce the incidence of cancer which is, in simple terms, a mass of abnormal cells. They do this by inhibiting the effects of the sex hormones and in particular testosterone on the prostate gland meaning that it is less likely to become cancerous.

Isoflavones can be found in soy and so a prostate cancer nutrition diet should contain a larger than normal amount of soy products. Even if further research finds that isoflavones are not an effective prostate cancer nutrition supplement they are still a necessary part of the diet and should be included either way.

Polyphenols are also thought to hinder the growth process of abnormal cells so that tumours grow and form blood supplies a lot slower than normal. Polyphenols are found in relatively large quantities in green tea, another suggested ingredient for an effective prostate cancer nutrition diet. Just how much tea needs to be drunk for the polyphenols to have an effect is as yet unknown however researchers are currently trying to isolate the nutrient and make it more potent, meaning that less would have to be ingested per day.

Thus, it is possible to boost your immunity to prostate cancer by making a few changes and eating a prostate cancer diet. Start including isoflavones and polyphenols in your meals today!

Prostate Cancer Treatment: What You Need To Find Out

2008-11-28T18:39:00.000-08:00

Being diagnosed with prostate cancer is a big shock for anyone however you should not immediately write your life off as there are a number of very successful prostate cancer treatments now available.

You will need to meet with your oncologist to fully discuss your options and to decide which type of treatment is best for you. This will depend to some extent on the progression of your cancer as some types of prostate cancer treatments are not suitable for late stage and terminal cases. Your decision will also need to take into account which side effects you can cope with as some men find that impotence and urinary incontinence cause more distress than the actual cancer.

Your individual circumstances will also have an effect on the treatment you receive. Age, overall health, other medical problems and the amount of emotional support you have at home and at work all need to be taken in to consideration. Your oncologist will be able to weigh up the details and decide on the best course of treatment; however, if you find yourself disagreeing with anything they suggest you must say so as only you know how you feel and how you will cope with the recommended prostate cancer treatment.

One of the biggest things to consider when choosing a form of prostate cancer treatment is what you want to achieve. Many men simply want to be rid of the disease and do not have a problem with the possibility of long-lasting side effects such as incontinence however younger individuals often decide that they would rather choose an alternative option with a lower success rate but less severe side effects. This decision is ultimately down to you and your preferences for the future should also be discussed with your oncologist before making any decisions.

Your age will also play a large part in which prostate cancer treatment you choose. Elderly men i.e. 70+ often decide to do nothing with regards to treatment as prostate cancer is in many cases a very slow growing disease and so the symptoms may not be felt during a lifetime. Alternatively you may wish to look into the possibility of hormone therapy which slows down the diseases progression but does not actually do anything to treat it, and there are no embarrassing side effects attached.

If you have not yet reached your 70th birthday or you have and are still young at heart then other prostate cancer treatments need to be considered. Surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy are the commonly used treatments and any combination of the three can be incorporated into a regime to suit you.

Ultimately however the decision is down to you. Talk to your family and your oncologist and consider your options carefully. Every case is different and needs to be treated on an individual basis so decide what it is you want to achieve and go from there.

How Women Can Protect Themselves From Getting Breast Cancer

2008-11-27T16:58:00.001-08:00

Chances are you know someone - a family member, colleague, or friend who has been affected by cancer. You'll want to learn more about prevention especially if you have a history of cancer in your family. There are over two hundred different types of cancer and the most common one for women is breast cancer. The lifetime probability of a woman developing breast cancer is 1 in 9. The good news is that it is possible for women to protect themselves from breast cancer. When breast cancer is discovered and treated early, the chances for recovery are better.

Every woman should know their own breasts so that any changes are noticed soon and can be reported to a physician. Knowing your breasts includes having a mammogram every two years if you are between the ages of 50 and 69 and getting a clinical breast exam by a doctor or trained health professional at least every two years from the age of 40. Regardless of age, all women should do their own monthly breast self-examination a few days after her period. When doing breast self-examination, things to look for include: puckering of the skin, the appearance of what is sometimes called 'orange peel skin', any place in your breasts that feels lumpy or harder than the rest and bleeding from the nipples or crusting.

It is important to note that most breast problems are not breast cancer and most lumps are not cancerous. When a lump is not cancerous it is referred to as 'benign'. A cancerous lump is called 'malignant'.

While there are no cures yet, researchers have discovered that a healthy lifestyle is the best way to prevent cancer. Since cancer is a disease that starts in our cells, everything we eat and are exposed to can affect them. Choose to be a non-smoker and avoid second-hand smoke. In regards to diet, choose a variety of lower fat, high fiber foods. Studies have shown that intake of total fat, saturated fat and meat are associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. Maintain a healthy body weight and limit alcohol consumption. Protect yourself from the sun. At home and at work, follow health and safety instructions when using hazardous materials. The link between an active lifestyle and breast cancer prevention is as yet unclear but general health is improved when regular exercise is an integral part of a person's lifestyle.

Taking care of ourselves is an ongoing commitment that requires self-discipline and knowledge. It is well worth the effort and you'll feel much better for it.

Orchietomy For Prostate Cancer Treatment

2008-11-27T07:32:00.001-08:00

Orchietomy is a radical prostate cancer treatment in which the testicles are completely removed. This is done because most cases of prostate cancer develop and progress because of the presence of male sex hormones, or more specifically testosterone and this hormone is produced by the testes.

This type of prostate cancer treatment is a form of hormone therapy which works by manipulating the hormone levels in the body so that the cancerous cells stop growing and dividing. While this therapy is known to have a positive effect on the cancer you must realise that the operation is non-reversible and the chances of your sex life being affected are virtually 100%.

Men who have undergone this form of prostate cancer treatment often report that their libido decreases and so does their desire to have sex. Unfortunately even when they do have the desire for sexual intercourse they may find themselves to be impotent and this can lead to psychological problems in the long term. These side affects of orchietomy are very common and you should take them in to account and discuss them with your partner before you decide to undergo this form of prostate cancer treatment.

Other side effects of this radical prostate cancer treatment are associated with the unbalancing of the male and female hormone levels within the body. By removing the testicles the concentration of testosterone in your body will be reduced by around 90% however the concentration of oestrogen, the female hormone will remain the same. This means that on occasion breast tenderness, growth of the breast tissue and osteoporosis can develop. Other side effects include anaemia, weight gain, and depression and fatigue however your oncologist will be able to explain each of the side effects in much more detail.

Before deciding for or against this form of prostate cancer treatment you need to decide what exactly you want to get out of the treatment. If you want to eliminate the cancer from your body then an orchietomy is a possibility however there are other ways to remove the cancer totally and these alternative treatments have fewer and less severe side effects. If however you are 60+ and do not want to have surgery then this procedure is not for you and radiation therapy can be used to simply control the growth of the cancer. Similarly if you are still relatively young and do not want to be plagued with impotence and lack of sex drive then, again, an orchietomy is probably not the prostate cancer treatment for you.

Because impotence is a major side effect of this radical prostate cancer treatment you should think long and hard before agreeing to anything. Talk to your partner and your oncologist and look into the alternative forms of treatment. There may be a better one for you that only has temporary side effects so that after a few weeks or months you can once again enjoy a full sex life.

Dana Reeve, Widow of Christopher Reeve, Has Died of Lung Cancer

2008-11-27T07:22:00.001-08:00

Dana Reeve, the widow of Christopher Reeve who came to prominence as Superman, has succumbed to lung cancer. She was 44.

Reeve was born Dana Morosini in New York City to Charles and Helen Morosini. She graduated cum laude from Middlebury College in 1984.

Ms. Reeve is perhaps best known for her work on behalf of those with spinal cord injuries. Following the tragic horse riding accident that left her husband Christopher Reeve paralyzed for over a decade, Dana Reeve acted as Christopher's voice. She succeeded Christopher Reeve as Chairman of the Christopher Reeve Foundation (CRF) in 2004 upon Mr. Reeve's passing following a heart attack.

Though tireless in her work for spinal injury victims, Dana Reeve was also a singer and an actress with stage and television performances to her credit. She was on the board of the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey as well as that of the Williamstown Theatre Festival in Massachusetts at which she met Christopher. Christopher and Dana Reeve were married on April 11, 1992. They had one son together.

Although Dana Reeve was not a smoker, she announced in August 2005 that she was battling lung cancer. Lung cancer among non-smokers is indeed rare; however, MedPage Today (www.medpagetoday.com) reports, "... researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center reported last year that a mutation in the epidermal growth factor (EGF) is more common in non-smokers with lung cancer than in smokers. That mutation, they reported in Proceedings of the National Academy of Science, suggests that non-smokers have a distinct form of lung cancer, according to William Pao, M.D. Ph.D., and colleagues."

According to the American Lung Association (www.lungusa.org), "Lung cancer is the leading cancer killer in both men and women. An estimated 173,700 new cases of lung cancer and an estimated 160,440 deaths from lung cancer will occur in the United States during 2004."

There are two major types of lung cancer: non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer. Non-small cell lung cancer is much more common. It usually spreads to different parts of the body more slowly than small cell lung cancer.

Friend, comedian Robin Williams, was quoted, "The brightest light has gone out. We will forever celebrate her [Dana Reeve's] loving spirit."

Dana Reeve is survived by her father, Dr. Charles Morosini, sisters Deborah Morosini and Adrienne Morosini Heilman, her son Will and two stepchildren, Matthew and Alexandra. Dana Reeve lost her mother to ovarian cancer in 2005.

Breast Cancer: Keeping Abreast

2008-11-27T07:14:00.001-08:00

A tiny suspicious lump tucked somewhere in the underarm or anywhere near the breasts, a mammography test and a U.S.G. of the breasts are probably the few first indicators of breast cancer. This is by far one of the most common diseases amongst women anywhere between 20- 40 years of age and certainly does not spell disaster if diagnosed at a proper stage and is dealt with courage and patience.

What is Breast Cancer?
When cells in the breast multiply uncontrollably thereby invading the nearby tissues or tissues in the other parts of the body, it gives rise to breast cancer. The tumors that are a result of this rapid multiplication of cells may or may not be cancerous. Those tumors that are a harmless lump are termed as Benign While the ones that may pose threat to a human body are called malignant.

Are Women the only victims to this disease?
The straightforward answer to this question would be a No. Women are not the only targets and men too can fall prey to this disease. However the proportions might vary greatly. Hardly 1% or 2% of men are known to be suffering from breast cancer.

What causes breast cancer?
Though there are no proven causes for breast cancer yet medical experts often blame it upon excess smoking, high intake of alcohol, over-weight, and exposure to radiation. This is also a heredity disease and may often be inherited from a close relative down the blood- line.

Living Beyond Breast Cancer- Well, according to me the fear of this ghastly disease is worse than the disease itself. Though there are many ways of dealing with it yet most patients suffering from breast cancer are devoured by their own paranoia and inhibitions. So the best way to conquer this is to take the bull by its horns. Agreed, no way is it going to be an easy task. But you can at least make an attempt at it.

Post surgery depression is inevitable so start by adopting all the positive survival strategies around you. Do not ostracize yourself from the society and be a loner who basks in his past glories. Instead make the most of social events. Try and be with friends and loved ones who are sure to generate optimism around you. Get hold of all the reading material that will help you to lead a much happier and healthier life. Always think that those dark days are over and that once the surgery is done this disease wont pop up its ugly head again. After all lightening never strikes the same place twice!

Alternative or Complementary Therapies?

2008-11-27T07:11:00.001-08:00

Just a few years ago if someone diagnosed with cancer wanted to pursue nutrition in their healing and treatment process it was considered an alternative therapy and they would often find themselves cautioned by friends and doctors, being told they were either unsafe or just downright insane.

Nutrition, or food therapy as I like to call it, is still not getting the attention it deserves in the realm of cancer therapy. But the overall awareness of nourishment is. Food is not the only add on of helpful tools that a cancer patient now has access to. More and more research is showing positive results with activities and therapies such as yoga, acupuncture, music, and writing.

When we have cancer we need a lot of nourishment, food being on of the things that feed us. But it is not just the food that is found on our plate, especially since that might not even suit us as well during time of treatment, it is even more so important to get support from a professional who can help identify other options and choices to feel better.

Food however is a tool that has a very immediate effect, as well as long term, on our well-being. More and more is being written about foods that help protect us against cancer, but what should we eat when we are living with cancer?

Most doctors might still tell their patients that food does not matter. But is that really true or is it that their drugs are enough to cure and therefore food does not matter. Or is it also the fact that they do not know enough and do not want to get involved in that conversation with their patients. Granted they also do not have the time.

Food does matter. And no, I am not talking about food as a cure for cancer. I am talking about feeling better. I am talking about even being part of the process. Feeling like you are doing something that is at least within your own power instead of sitting around waiting for the drugs to help. That alone already helps in the success of treatment. The emotional strength that comes from eating well and knowing that we are caring for our bodies and using the tools of food to its utmost.

But food can affect the drugs used in cancer treatment, which may be another reason doctors do not want their patients to start experimenting with food as medicine. Surely all aspects need to be taken into consideration when discussing nutrition in cancer therapy.

Living with cancer is however still regarded as somewhat of a gap in ones life. Where everything is abnormal and we just need this period of time to be over. But living with cancer is also a lifestyle for a period of time. Maybe even forever, so is it not time we start doing exactly that. LIVE with cancer and accept it as our new lifestyle and learn everything we can about how to take better care of ourselves. With all the complementary therapies that are available to do just that.

What is Skin Cancer and Who is Most at Risk?

2008-11-27T07:07:00.001-08:00

If you have read a newspaper or listened to the news over the last few years, then you will know that there are always constant warnings telling us to protect our skin against skin cancer. Whilst many people do listen to these warnings, there are still a shocking amount of people who still ignore them.If you are one of those people that do ignore the warnings you are likely to be thinking that there is no chance of you getting the cancer and that there is no harm in missing an application or two of sun tan lotion. After all, skin cancer takes ages to develop doesn?t it? Skin Cancer and its Various FormsSkin cancer is not as rare as some people think that it is. Whilst it is true that staying in the sun unprotected for a little amount of time, rarely leads to skin cancer, it still can occur. There are different forms of skin cancer, though some are extremely rare. The three most common types of skin cancer include:MelanomaThis is less common than the other two types of skin cancer, though it can be a lot more serious. It develops from the melanocytes in the skin and is usually seen as a pigmented lesion with an irregular shape in the skin. This is definitely the most potentially harmful cancer as it can spread to various different areas within the body. If treated early, the good news is that this type of cancer has a very high cure rate, so get to the doctors as soon as possible for your best chance of recovery!Squamous Cell CarcinomaThis is usually seen within any part of the body which is exposed to excessive sun. Often occurring in the hands, lower lip, and the forehead, this type of cancer appears as a red bump or an ulceration of the skin which does not heal. The cancer if left untreated can spread to lymph nodes within the affected area.Basal Cell CarcinomaBasal Cell Carcinoma is by far the most common type of cancer you are likely to get and it usually appears as a small bump which has a pearly colored appearance. Usually the cancer is found on areas of the body which have had excessive sun exposure. This type of skin cancer does not usually spread to other parts of the body, and will only spread to the skin around the actual cancer.Overall, Basal Cell Carcinoma is the most common skin cancer but it is not the most serious. Usually people with fair skin are more at risk than others of contracting the cancer, especially people with freckles. Obviously, the longer you expose your skin to the sun without sufficient protection, the more at risk you are of developing skin cancer.How to Prevent Yourself from Getting Skin Cancer and the Treatments AvailableIt is really easy to protect yourself against skin cancer, so really there is no excuse for not preventing it. Using an adequate amount of sun protection lotion is a must, and unfortunately many people simply do not bother with it. There seems to be some confusion between how much you should use and what protection factor you should go for. Generally, children and people with fair skin need to be using a higher protection factor than other people. People with darker skin do not tend to get skin cancer as often as people with lighter skin so they do not need a high factor sun lotion. Sunbeds are also a cause of skin cancer, though cases are rare. So if you do use a sunbed, it is important that you limit your use of it, and contact your doctor to see how often they recommend you should use it. When out in the sun do not forget to protect your face too. Applying lotion to the ears, nose and neck will help to protect those sensitive areas from the sun. If you do notice any changes in your skin such as moles, lesions or sores which do not heal, it is always better to consult your doctor immediately. If caught early, most skin cancer can be cured. There are various forms of treatment for skin cancer including surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The treatment which you will receive depends upon your age, health and the size of the cancer. However, surgery is the most common form of treatment and it is usually done as an outpatient procedure.

Breast Cancer - Some Less Known Facts About It

2008-11-25T06:00:00.001-08:00

Breast cancer is something that most people typically relate with females, but did you know that it can also affect males? While the number of male breast cancer sufferers is much lower than that of females, it is important for men to be aware that they too can be affected.

While men aged about 67 years are the most susceptible, it is not unheard of for men much younger than that to report this disease. The male breast has much less fatty tissue than does a female breast. This is why this form of cancer doesn't affect men as often. The highest concentration of fatty tissue in men is typically located just beneath the nipple. More often than not, this is where male breast cancer will start.

A common sign of male breast cancer is having the nipple becoming crusty, scaly and raw-looking. Another sign is bleeding, burning, itching or oozing in the nipple area. Remember that there doesn't need to be a palpable lump present to indicate cancer. If there is a lump present, though, the cancer condition is worse than if it were not there.

Risk factors for male breast cancer include age, family history, obesity, alcohol consumption, exposure to radiation, physical inactivity, liver disease and Klinefelter syndrome. Also, if medications are being taken that can significantly disrupt a man's hormonal level; the chances of developing this cancer are increased. Strong medications like this include those that are used for ulcers and lowering blood pressure.

The only two scientifically proven ways to combat this cancer are through early diagnosis and proper medical treatment. There are, however, some still-developing alternative medicines that are said to aid in fighting cancer. These are best used alongside traditional treatment, rather than just on their own.

Many of the alternative methods often focus on what it is you're eating and teach you how to fuel your body in such a way that it will be able to fight off the cancer on it's own. Because of all the preservatives and artificial flavorings that are commonly found in food, changing your diet can make a remarkable change in your overall health and may just be enough to jumpstart your immune system enough so that it will help you win the fight against this deadly disease.

While this type of cancer will continue to affect more women than man, it is increasingly important that men get the message that they too can develop it. Contrary to some prejudiced thinking, male breast cancer has nothing whatsoever to do with a man's masculinity or lack thereof.

Remember that the most important thing is early diagnosis, so it is wise to drop any reservations or stubbornness about seeing a doctor. Simply go for a check-up every now and then and be sure to tell your doctor if you are experiencing any of the breast cancer signs listed above.

Summary:

Breast cancer is something that most people typically relate with females, but did you know that breast cancer can also affect males? It is important for men to be aware that they too can be affected.

Breast Cancer Prevention

2008-11-25T06:00:00.000-08:00

Breast cancer happens when cells in the breast begin to grow out of control and can then invade nearby tissues or spread throughout the body. Large collections of this out of control tissue are called tumors. However, some tumors are not really cancer because they cannot spread or threaten someone's life. These are called benign tumors. The tumors that can spread throughout the body or invade nearby tissues are considered cancer and are called malignant tumors. Theoretically, any of the types of tissue in the breast can form a cancer, but usually it comes from either the ducts or the glands. Because it may take months to years for a tumor to get large enough to feel in the breast, we screen for tumors with mammograms, which can sometimes see disease before we can feel it.

How can I prevent breast cancer?

The most important risk factors for the development of breast cancer cannot be controlled by the individual. There are some risk factors that are associated with an increased risk, but there is not a clear cause and effect relationship. In no way can strong recommendations be made like the cause and effect relationship seen with tobacco and lung cancer. There are a few risk factors that may be modified by a woman that potentially could influence the development of breast cancer.

If possible, a woman should avoid long-term hormone replacement therapy, have children before age 30, breastfeed, avoid weight gain through exercise and proper diet, and limit alcohol consumption to 1 drink a day or less. For women already at a high risk, their risk of developing breast cancer can be reduced by about 50% by taking a drug called Tamoxifen for five years. Tamoxifen has some common side effects (like hot flashes and vaginal discharge), which are not serious and some uncommon side effects (like blood clots, pulmonary embolus, stroke, and uterine cancer) which are life threatening. Tamoxifen isn't widely used for prevention, but may be useful in some cases. There are limited data suggesting that vitamin A may protect against breast cancer but further research is needed before it can be recommended for prevention. Other things being investigated include phytoestrogens (naturally occurring estrogens that are in high numbers in soy), vitamin E, vitamin C, and other drugs. Further testing of these substances is also needed before they can be recommended for breast cancer prevention.

Right now, the most important thing any woman can do to decrease her risk of dying from breast cancer is to have regular mammogram screening, learn how to perform breast self exams, and have a regular physical examination by their physician. For more information on breast cancer prevention.

Natural Holistic Approach to Treating Cancer

2008-11-25T05:59:00.001-08:00

Cancer research has uncovered many links between what people eat and their risk of then getting certain cancers. As a result, you can find literature that's full of facts about how to avoid cancer and how to go forth for a natural cancer cure. In my research, most of this literature has a great deal of information about the natural holistic approach on ways to prevent and heal cancer.

Many researchers have provided information about studies done by the National Cancer Institute. In one study using 35,000 male subjects, the Institute looked at the ability of selenium to prevent cancer. The investigators found that a low intake of selenium can cause a great increase in a male's risk for getting prostate cancer.

Another breakthrough study was performed at the Northern California Cancer Center in Fremont, California. The data compiled by those California researchers has indicated that exposure to the sun can help to prevent prostate cancer as well, which is something considerably new in the cancer research field. Further studies have shown that a generous amount of Vitamin D, such as what one gets from sunlight, will cut a man's chances in half for getting prostate cancer.

As physicians and researchers begin to make greater use of the new drugs for treating cancer, it becomes obvious that medicine needs to pay closer attention to holistic cancer cures in addition to these traditional treatment methods. Holistic cures take into consideration all of the parts of the body, not just the specific body part that has the cancer. But the mind and spirit is as well.

The case of one woman in California illustrates the need for a holistic approach to cure cancer. The woman has been receiving chemotherapy for a lung cancer. She
has learned that the drug that is helping to fight her cancer has also created changes in her blood. Her blood is getting thicker.

As a result, that California patient must avoid eating foods with Vitamin K, a vitamin that helps to thicken blood. The woman continues to sacrifice by not eating certain foods that she loves such dark green vegetables. If one can understand that this particular woman is affected by what she eats, researchers and physicians should be aware that what humans eat may have more of a relevant link to cancer than they
first thought was the case.

Research has also found that smokers have a greater chance for getting cancer, especially lung cancer. But there are some things you can do starting now by changing your habits toward a healthier you.

Watching Out for Ovarian Cancer

2008-11-25T05:59:00.000-08:00

One of the cancers that are among the deadliest is ovarian caner. It is rare, but it is among the most deadly, with a low survival rate in the final two stages. This is because it is a relatively silent killer that often progresses beyond any hope of healing before it is discovered. New tests are allowing doctors to catch this disease earlier, improving chances of survival, but it is still a little-known menace that affects women.

Ovarian cancer initially attacks the ovaries. As with most cancers, the exact cause of the cancer is not completely known. However, it does start in the ovaries. If caught soon enough, the ovaries can usually be removed, with a very god chance of success. The key, however, is catching the cancer early. It needs to be caught in its first or second stage for the best chance of survival. And therein lies the problem. Most of the time, the cancer is not found until it is in the third or fourth stage. These stages are pretty much too late for most people. The fourth stage especially, as by this time the cancer has probably spread throughout the body. This cancer cannot be detected by a pap smear. Therefore, it is important that you inform your doctor of a family history of ovarian cancer (genetics is the main indicator and cause) and any other irregularities. Even though improved tests can help detect the cancer earlier than before, it is important that your physician be on the look out for indicators.

Some of the symptoms of ovarian cancer include irregular menstrual cycles (although many women have these anyway, but someone prone to cancer will find that birth control does not properly regulate it), frequent nausea and fever, and vaginal bleeding. A frequent need to use the bathroom is another indication of the possibility of ovarian cancer. All of these things need to be discussed with your doctor so that she or he knows what the possibilities might be.

Behaviors that are though to reduce the risk (although nothing can completely eradicate the risk of ovarian cancer) include healthy diet and exercise, oral contraceptives, breastfeeding, and having at least one full-term pregnancy. Of course, none of these behaviors are complete protection against any illness, including cancer, but it can help you reduce your chance of developing it. Surgical procedures are also thought to help. Things like having your tubes "tied" and also the removal of the ovaries can reduce your risk as well. Although, interestingly enough, even removing your ovaries does not completely eliminate your chances of developing ovarian cancer (even though it helps significantly).

By understanding your family history and taking care to live a healthy lifestyle, you can probably avoid ovarian cancer. It is a rare cancer, but more deadly perhaps because of that rarity. Most women are not likely to get it, but it is a good idea to be on your guard, especially if there is a history of ovarian cancer in your family.

How Far Has Science Come in Understanding the Causes of Prostate Cancer?

2008-11-25T05:57:00.000-08:00

The study of prostate cancer has come a long way since its identification in 1853. Information concerning diagnostic methods, treatment options and even the pathophysiological characteristics of this condition has been provided in useful details by researchers, but the specific causes of prostate cancer remain unknown up to this day.

The causes of prostate cancer, or any other type of cancer for that matter, have remained a mystery to those who are studying the disease. Despite being able to explain the process by which cancer of the prostate develops, the exact reasons behind the condition's occurrence remain a challenge to cancer researchers.

Cancer of the prostate is a condition that affects only men. The prostate gland, which is part of the male reproductive system, helps make and store seminal fluid. It surrounds part of the urethra and is located under the urinary bladder and in front of the rectum. Its position allows it to influence the processes of urination, ejaculation and defecation.

Although the causes of cancer of the prostate have yet to be fully understood, scientists were able to identify some of the factors associated with the risk of developing this condition. A man's chances of developing prostate cancer are influenced by his age, genes, race, diet, lifestyle and the medications that he is taking. Cancer of the prostate is quite uncommon in men aged below 45. However, the chances of developing prostate cancer increase as a man ages. Based on statistics gathered on prostate cancer patients, 70 is the average age of diagnosis.

Prostate cancer is a slow developing condition. Some men who have it never even knew that they had the condition and they could die of other causes before their cancer manifests itself. But a man who has a first degree relative, like a brother or a father, who has been diagnosed with this condition is believe to have a higher chance of developing prostate cancer, particularly if the relative was diagnosed at an early age.

Among the races, African Americans have been known to account for the highest percentage of diagnosed cases of prostate cancer. Asians, on the other hand, recorded the least number of diagnosed cases. Researchers speculate that this might be due to the difference between the diet and lifestyle of Western and Asian men. Westerners usually take in more red meat while Asians are more likely to eat vegetables and fruits. Men who have higher levels of the short chain fatty acid linolenic acid have also been found to have higher rates of cancer in the prostate. Other dietary factors that have been implicated in the development of prostate cancer include low intake of elements such as vitamin E, lycopene, omega-3 fatty acids and selenium.

In terms of genetics, no single gene has yet to be proven to be responsible for the development of prostate cancer, although BRCA1 and BRCA2, both risk factors for ovarian cancer and breast cancer in women, have been implicated.

Although the causes of prostate cancer have not yet been fully identified, there is high hope that the exact process that governs this disease will eventually be understood and prevention methods will be developed to lessen the number of men suffering from this condition.

Prostate Cancer Surgery Treatment: Knowing Your Options

2008-11-24T06:38:00.000-08:00

In many cases, early stage prostate cancer surgery treatment is recommended as the first course of action. If you had detected your prostate cancer early, then the operation is a fairly simple procedure. Only the cancerous section of your prostate gland is removed.

However, on ocassions, prostate cancer surgery treatment does not go according to plan. This happens when your cancer is found to be in close proximity to nerves or the urethra, and so long-lasting side effects are a possibility. You will need to consider these issues before agreeing to the treatment.

If the nerves that control the penis become damaged during your treatment, then impotence may develop and this will seriously affect your future sex life. You should discuss this with your partner and see how you both feel about it before you agree to the operation.

Two other possible consequences of prostate cancer surgery treatment are incontinence and urinary leakage. Incontinence is when you have very little control over urination while urinary leakage is where you can control when you urinate but you dribble a little either before or after voiding your bladder. These two symptoms often disappear after a few weeks however you should be prepared for the eventuality that they do not.

Prostate cancer surgery treatment is a painful procedure and in the days following the operation you will feel very uncomfortable and may have to rely on nurses and loved ones to help with toileting. This however is a very small price to pay for being cancer-free.

There are a number of types of treatment for prostate cancer available and the one you choose will be specific to your case. You need to discuss your options with your oncologist before choosing a treatment. Your oncologist should be well equipped to offer all the information you need to make an informed decision.

More often than not the entire prostate gland will be removed so that there is little chance of the cancer returning at a later date. The surrounding lymph nodes will also be removed as this is the first place that the cancer will have spread to and by removing them the surgeon is effectively removing all chances of the cancer subsequently spreading around the body.

A radical prostatectomy removes the entire prostate gland however the surgeon can enter the body through the abdomen or through an incision made between the scrotum and the anus. In some cases, where the cancer is confined to a specific area of the prostate gland, key-hole surgery or laparoscopy may be an option so that only infected sections of the gland need to be removed.

Your decision on the specific prostate cancer surgery treatment will depend on the extent of your cancer and your individual preferences. It is crucial that you discuss your decision over with your loved ones. They may have some inputs that can help you choose which option is best.

Do You Know What Your Risks Are of Developing Breast Cancer?

2008-11-24T06:37:00.001-08:00

Many women all over the world fear breast cancer. It is a killer! It is one of the leading causes of death for women and even men are not immune.

Not that long ago a diagnosis of breast cancer would have been like receiving a death sentence! That's because it was often fatal. However, things are different today because of the amazing advances in medical science in the area of breast cancer research.

For example, a lot more treatments are available to you today than were available 20 years ago. And many women are survivors of this dreaded disease.

Do you know your personal risk factor for developing breast cancer?

It's obvious that just because you're a woman you are more at risk than a man would be. As you age, your risks increase. But you can't really change that. Your genetic makeup is another risk factor. If breast cancer claimed your mother, that increases your risks as well. If you had another close family member who developed breast cancer that also increases your risk of developing it yourself. The age that you had your first menstrual period also affects your risk factor. If you started menstruating before the age of 12, your risk increases. If you passed through menopause after the age of 50, that also increases your risk.

There is a test available now that you can take to see if you carry a mutated gene related to breast cancer.

If you have menopausal symptoms and you are taking estrogen with progesterone, that will increase your risk of developing breast cancer by a small percent. Taking birth control pills is another factor in slightly increasing your risk of having this disease. Your risks will increase if you drink alcoholic beverages and smoke. Obesity may lead to breast cancer as well. You will increase your risks if you seldom exercise. Those who have never breast fed their babies have an increased risk too.

Surprisingly, even men can suffer from breast cancer. And no one really knows who will be its next victim.

As you have seen in this article, there are some risks that you have control over, while there are other risks over which you have no control.

Here are some risks that you can control. Choose healthy habits like regular exercise and watching your weight. Avoid alcoholic beverages as much as possible and don't smoke.

If your genetic background is a risk factor for you, be sure to have regular mammograms and breast examinations by your doctor. You ought to examine your own breasts every month too.

Now that you know a little more about what your own personal risk factors for breast cancer are, you can choose healthy habits to protect yourself. And don't forget to schedule regular examinations by your doctor and examine your breasts yourself once a month. Be sure to include a yearly mammogram for your protection from breast cancer.

Cancer Awareness Merchandise Gifts

2008-11-24T06:37:00.000-08:00

It seems that with the rise in cancers all over the world, the need for cancer awareness merchandise has become more prevalent. People who are survivors or family and friends of people who suffer from any type of cancer are eager to share their stories with others to make people aware of the dangers of certain things and the whole cancer issue itself. So, when it comes down to cancer awareness, t-shirts, stuffed animals, pins, bracelets, and many other items are helping everyone to spread the word.

Cancer awareness merchandise comes in a variety of different shapes, sizes, and colors. While the ribbons and pins are still the most popular, t-shirts are coming up fast. With all of the different awareness groups out there, you can always find a t-shirt that will help you to make people aware of anything from being a survivor to the loved one who passed away due to cancer. You can order t-shirts through a variety of different sources, from the cancer association to different online sources, all it takes is a small amount of searching to find the t-shirt that you have been looking for.

Other cancer awareness merchandise that is available varies from stuffed animals that have ribbons or sayings on them to beautiful jewelry that comes with any kind of jewels and in gold, silver, and platinum. The stuffed animals have either small sayings to help brighten someone's day or tiny clothes to make you smile. There is stationery that comes in all colors and themes to help support cancer research. And, the jewelry that is beginning to hit the market is a beautiful way to remember or congratulate someone. You can find rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings that carry every kind of stone and most can even be customized to add a special air to the piece. There are many more gifts out there that are becoming too numerous to mention.

You can always find just the perfect gift for yourself or someone you love that will help support cancer awareness research and programs. Most of the proceeds from the different merchandise goes to help fight the disease and find a cure. If you aren't sure where the proceeds from your purchase are going, all you have to do is ask. If you don't get the answer you are looking for, you can always order from someone else to ensure that your money will go to a worthy cause.

What You Should Know When Early Symptoms Prostate Cancer Appears

2008-11-24T06:36:00.000-08:00

In any type of cancer, early diagnosis is a great advantage. Cancer, after all, is best controlled if it is detected at its earliest stage. With cancer of the prostate, majority of early-stage cases show no symptoms at all. In rare situations when early symptoms prostate cancer does appear, a patient should discuss his options with his physician first and carefully weigh the pros and cons of getting tested at this stage.

Early symptoms prostate cancer should not be a cause for anxiety and neither should it be ignored. Symptoms might be there for reasons other than cancer and the best thing to do is to arm yourself with important information about the potential condition. Having a thorough discussion with your physician is, of course, essential.

Should the symptoms proved to be cancer, the first thing to do is to know its grade. Prostate cancers are usually graded using the Gleason system. The system assigns a grade of 1 to 5 based on the arrangement of the cancerous tissue. If the cancerous tissue looks very much like a normal tissue, a grade of 1 is assigned. If the tissue lacks normal features and the cells seemed to be spread haphazardly through the prostate, a grade of 5 is given. The middle numbers 2,3 and 4, are used to grade intermediate features.

In most cases, areas produce different grades. Pathologists assign a grade to two of the areas that make up most of the cancer and the two grades are added up to derive the Gleason score or the Gleason sum. The sum yielded can range from 2 to 10. The higher the Gleason sum, the more likely that the cancer will grow and spread fast.

Pathologists sometimes encounter cases when prostate cells do not look cancerous but still show abnormal characteristics. In such cases, the results are reported as suspicious and are categorized either as atypical or prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN). PIN can be either low grade or high grade. Atypical results or high-grade PIN can mean that cancer is already present somewhere else in the prostate gland. In high-grade PIN results, cancer has a 30 to 50 percent chance of being found. Because of this, repeat biopsies are often recommended.

Aside from the cancer grade, the prostate specific antigen (PSA) level of the patient prior to the confirmation of the cancer is also important. The pre-diagnostic PSA is often used to evaluate how advance the cancer was before it was detected. In most cases, the higher the PSA level, the more aggressive the disease.

The Gleason score, PSA level results and even the assessment of early symptoms prostate cancer, are then summarized into nomogram charts. These charts are used to evaluate whether additional treatments are needed and also to assess the likelihood of a patient being cancer-free after the treatment.

The Truth About Breast Cancer

2008-11-24T06:33:00.000-08:00

Breast cancer happens when cells in the breast or a tumor, grow out of control and damages nearby tissue. In women, the most common and fatal type of cancer is breast cancer.

Detection
There are often no symptoms in the early stages. Women should be aware of the screening recommendations and follow them. There are varieties of symptoms that may appear as the tumor grows such as:

- The breast changing in size or shape
- Breast skin becomes pitted or ridged
- Thickening or lump in the underarm or breast
- Discharge from nipple or the nipple turns inward
- Skin on the breast becomes red or scales

If you have any of these symptoms, have yourself examined by a medical professional. This does not mean you have cancer but you defiantly want to have this checked.

Before the age of twenty, is very rare to get it and not often diagnosed in women less than twenty-five years old. The chances of contacting climbs steadily after 25 and peaks around menopause age in women. It increases less after menopause but as they age, the risk to older women gradually increases.

Risk Factors
Nobody really knows what causes this cancer. Some of the elements that are thought to increase the risk are:

Gender: There are more cases of women than men
Weight: Overweight women are at higher risk
Age: From 25 to menopause, the chances increases.
Children: If a woman has not had a child, or had a child after 30
Family History: Women that have a family member that have or had it are at risk.

Male Breast Cancer
Yes, it really does happen. It is certainly not as common as in women but approximately one to 1.5% happens to men. Older men most often diagnosed with it and are between sixty and seventy years old. If a man has had previous exposure to radiation, such as for cancer treatment, their risk increases. Approximately 20% of men with a mother, sister or other close female relatives with breast cancer are certainly at higher risk. Some of the symptoms in men includes swelling or a breast lump, retracted nipple or discharge and scaling or redness of the breast skin or nipple.

Statistics
The statistics are frightening. Each and ever year, over 182,000 women and 16,000 men are diagnosed with breast cancer. Over 400 men and 43,300 women will die from this terrible disease. During their lifetime, one woman out of eight has or will get breast cancer. Most people have family or friends that have or had breast cancer. Always give them your support and encouragement.

Lung Cancer: Basic Facts

2008-11-21T06:04:00.001-08:00

We all have heard of lung cancer but how many of us are well aware of its symptoms? The lung cancer is one of the most perilous diseases that kill thousands of Americans every year and each year the number of cases are increasing. With the occurrences of cancer of the lungs on the rise, it is essential that we learn about the basic factors leading to lung-cancer and what should be the courses of action in case of lung cancer diagnosis. Here are the basic information regarding lung cancer that will help you to understand how and when it develops and how to steer clear of this killer disease.

Lung cancer is that condition of your lungs where an abnormal reproduction of cells takes place. And it can happen in one or both of your lungs. Sometimes lumps of cancerous cells or the tumors invade the organs. Our lungs allow the oxygen from the air to pass into the bloodstream and carbon dioxide to eliminate from the system. Now any kind of lung disease including lung-cancer impairs this function of lungs to transfer oxygen into blood and remove carbon dioxide from it. The result is many kinds of disorders relating to breathing trouble and cough.

Do you know what the most dreadful part of the lung cancer is? One rarely comes to suspect that he or she is suffering from lung-cancer until it is too late and goes beyond any kind of treatment. This is because, signs and symptoms associated with lung disease are never acute or alarming until the later stages of malignancy and it is often at this stage when someone starts to experience the typical symptoms of lung cancer. So it is recommended that if you ever experience any symptom even remotely related to lung cancer, rush to the doctor without delay so that in case of diagnosis of cancer in the lungs you can avail the treatments as early as possible. The earlier the disease is diagnosed; greater are the chances of survival.

So what are the common symptoms of lung cancer? Nagging cough that seems never to end coupled with constant chest pain may be the warning of something being grossly wrong with your lungs. If you are suffering from recurring pneumonia or bronchitis, it may be an indication that you should immediately see an oncologist. The person displaying certain apathy for food followed by a remarkable weight loss may be an indication of cancer and the patients of lung cancer often complain of fatigue. However, swelling of neck and face is also one of the symptoms of cancer in the lungs.

Remember lung cancer can be prevented if you give up smoking. So stay away from the cigars, cigarettes, pipes and other tobacco products. Also insist that the smokers should always smoke inside the smoking zone; do not allow the second hand smokes damage your lungs.

Want A Good Reason To Quit Smoking, How About Lung Cancer?

2008-11-21T06:00:00.001-08:00

The lungs are organs found in the chest cavity. When air enters through our nose or mouth, it passes on through the trachea, then into the bronchi and into the lungs. The lungs provide the oxygen that the blood carries to the rest of the body. It is very important to take care of our lungs so our body has the oxygen it needs to function properly.

Lung cancer is occurs when the cells inside the lungs malfunction due to certain factors. According to statistics, smoking causes 87% of all lung cancer. This disease is one of the major causes of death in America. There are more cases of lung cancer than all the other types of cancer put together.

The more you smoke, the more you are prone to lung cancer. The disease can be prevented if the person quits smoking before it is too late. It can also easily go undetected until it is in the advanced stages.

What are the common indications that you have lung cancer?

First, coughing caused by the irritation of the lining of the lungs and blocked air passages, chest pain, pneumonia, bronchitis, weight loss and loss of appetite and fatigue are the symptoms of this deadly disease. If the malady gets worse, it can also cause headaches and pain in the bones.

Smokers are not the only ones prone to lung cancer. The passive smokers, the People who inhale smoke from other people's cigarettes, are also prone to contracting it, even if then don't smoke themselves.

Particles coming from asbestos and other industrial carcinogens are also causes of cancer. But there are more people who acquire it through smoking than for any other reason.

There are two types of cancers. The first is the small cell cancer. The small cell cancer is the type of cancer that spreads easily during the first stage of the disease. It is treated by chemotherapy with uneven results.

The non-small cell cancer is the most common. Almost 75% of the cases of lung cancer fall in this category. It is divided into four types, squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, large cell carcinoma and bronchoaveolar carcinoma. This can de treated with surgery, followed by chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy.

It is hard to quit smoking, especially if you are a chain smoker. Knowing the harmful effects of smoking to the body is necessary to help you to decide to quit smoking. If you don't want to get lung cancer in the future, then you better quit smoking now.

The Leading Causes Of Lung Cancer

2008-11-21T05:56:00.001-08:00

Lung cancer is a serious health problem, it is essentially the growth of abnormal cells in the lungs.

This growth of unhealthy cells can start anywhere in the lungs.

Lung cancer is actually the leading cause of cancer deaths in both men and women. Of those people who contract lung cancer, less than half of them survive one year. The quicker you notice symptom and have it diagnosed, the quicker treatment can begin and the odds improve.

The leading cause of lung cancer is smoking. eighty seven percent of people who have lung cancer have gotten it from smoking.

If a person smokes a pack a day, they have twenty times the risk of getting lung cancer or some other serious health problem than a person who doesn't smoke at all.

There are so many carcinogens in tobacco smoke that they constantly damage the healthy cells of the lungs, and the risk goes up for smokers depending on how long they have smoked and how much they have smoked.

There are other causes of lung cancer for healthy people who don't smoke

These causes include asbestos, which used to be used in building materials. It enters a healthy person's lungs by inhaling, and then attaches to the respiratory lining.

People who get lung cancer from asbestos exposure usually get it from work or from living in an older home.

Some doctors also think that women who are exposed to tobacco smoke, are more likely to have lung cancer than men exposed to smoke. Researchers have found a gene called GRPR which causes unusual cell growth in people exposed to cigarette smoke. This gene is more active in women than in men and may explain why females are more prone to lung cancer.

Some research has indicated a diet low in fruit and vegetables may increase the chances of developing cancer if exposed to tobacco smoke. Some evidence shows fruit and vegetables may protect against lung cancer.

The final cause of lung cancer in healthy people is radon exposure.

Radon is a gas which is naturally released from soil and rocks. In closed spaces like caves, basements and other areas, it can become concentrated and cause lung cancer or other health problems. It is always a good idea to have a home checked for radon levels because there are things that can be done to lower them to more acceptable levels.

The good news?

When smokers quit smoking, their risk for getting lung cancer goes down immediately and every year that they don't smoke.

It is also an interesting fact that 25% of nonsmokers that get lung cancer live with smokers, so the secondhand smoke is most likely the cause of their lung cancer health issues.