Nobody like Cancer

Kissing Away the Boo Boos: Helping Kids Fight Cancer

2011-10-09T23:39:00.000-07:00

Mothers will always try to protect their children from everything they possibly can. We keep them away from sick people and make sure they have enough layers on to keep them warm in winter. Being a mom is a challenge, sometimes we lose, and sometimes we win.

Children who are frightened or injured will cry out for mommy. Mommy will administer tender loving care, a kiss and a band aid; the child will instantly feel better. There are those times when a kiss and a band aid simply do not cover the situation.

We hear more and more about children with cancer these days. These children and their parents are discovering that life is about to change for them forever. Cancer treatments are very apt to include surgery along with chemotherapy or radiation. This is terribly hard on a child, and possibly just as hard on the parents who stand by helplessly. Mothers are used to taking control of their kids' wellbeing through sickness and health, we fall apart when hugs and kisses won't make it all better, our child is in pain and there is nothing we can do about it.

Fortunately there are doctors working around the clock to find new ways to cure cancer. A tremendous amount of money is being sent from all over the world so doctors and researchers can devote all their time and energy into finding new ways to make a difference in the treatment of cancer. Thankfully there have been huge medical advances in the last several years.

Most years there are big corporations joining in the cause for cancer awareness by seeking donations from their customers to help cancer research. Companies like Wal-Mart and McDonald's ask their customers to donate an extra dollar or so at the check out counter to help fund research. Many customers who are able to donate do so. Obviously, one must always contribute to their own family's support before helping others, but if each customer gave just a dollar, a huge difference could be made in discovering better cancer treatments and even a vaccine that would stop the disease before it started.

Most of us never imagine that it could be our child who suddenly gets sick and is diagnosed with cancer. We figure that since we have no history of cancer in our family surely our children won't have to worry about that. No parent ever expects their child will get sick, especially not with cancer. But those parents and children who suddenly find their world upside down cannot stress enough how important cancer research is.

It doesn't matter who we are, we are all in agreement that no child anywhere deserves to suffer, particularly something as painful and stress-inducing as cancer. It is fortunate for us that millions of dollars are donated annually to find ways to mitigate the disease if not end it entirely. There are some rare forms of cancer that sadly have no chance of a cure as yet. Even among the cancers where treatment plans are available, a patient is deemed to be cured if they have been in remission for five years. Five years does not seem like a big deal when a child is involved.

As parents, the thing that we want most for our children is for them to live long and happy lives. While we cannot kiss their boo boos to make it all better, we can donate to cancer research in the hopes that one day doctors will be able to discover a permanent cure for cancer because every kid deserves the chance to live their live to the fullest.

If you enjoyed the above piece, it is easy to go look at additional related posts at Sy Schlager or this Sy Schlager Article.

Cancer Alternatives Cures - Introduction: Towards a Freedom of Choice

2011-10-09T23:38:00.002-07:00

This quick guide on therapies for cancer treatment is to be understood in a purely informative nature. The aim of those who wrote it is not so much to steer the patient to start a therapy rather than another, but to inform him of the existence of possible "different" than the official ones already known.

In this sense, the information, which is the first step towards knowledge, could lead the patient or his family, to think freely and wider, the better chance of cure. Move towards a freedom of choice is a difficult path that can never be separated from knowledge.

We will speak more of the situations with poor prognosis, cases where the disease is advanced and the chances of healing are minimal, because it is assumed that in the most fortunate cases there is less need to reflect and to evaluate the possibility of taking different treatments.

This account can not be considered exhaustive at all about the different therapeutic options existing for the treatment of cancer, but does represent a strong effort of reflection on them.

In this perspective, this report can be considered certainly not an end point, but rather a starting point, a first step towards a brave awareness about this disease and what the patient or his family can "groped" beyond what they already know. In this sense, start to assume a more aware and active behaviour against the disease, could be of great help in precisely those situations with unfavorable prognosis, when despair is that we no longer know what to do.

The sense of impotence is not only devastating for the patient but also for all the people closest to him. So, overnight, they are in a "tunnel" without knowing why they have entered a way without a glimpse of an exit. But sometimes it can happen to feel the need to do something, and then think of alternatives is absolutely necessary, just to keep alive the hope.

In this contribution, rather than provide answers, deliberately trying to create questions, to question the certainties that seem to be acquired, conscious of the fact that the absolute truth on cancer unfortunately has not been found yet. The different therapeutic options to be discussed will not be deliberately treated comprehensively and completely, to leave to each patient or family, the right space for personal investigation. It is only through a series of reflections and subjective evaluations on the different treatment options that each patient will be able to decide their course of treatment.

The author has found an alternative source of Cancer cure. You can read further info by clicking here

Learning More About Mouth Cancer Symptoms

2011-10-09T23:38:00.000-07:00

Mouth cancer, which is also known as oral cancer, commonly involves the tongue, lips, gums, palate as well as the mouth cavity's membrane lining. This cancer is developed as the result of malignant cell growth. Mouth cancer can affect men and women especially those who have reached the age of 40. The risk of suffering from this disease will increase if the individuals chew smokeless tobacco. Besides, severe periodontal disease and family history of oral cancer can also put someone at higher risk of oral cancer. Learning the symptoms is a good initial step to know if you are infected by this disease. By identifying mouth cancer symptoms, you still have time to prevent more complications such as speech problems or the spread to lymph nodes. In addition, learning the symptoms may give you the chance to get early treatment. Here are the symptoms that you can learn:

1. Sores or lump inside the mouth, on the gums or on your lip. These sores are symptoms of oral cancer when they don't heal, there is a change in its size and bleed easily. Thickening skin or lump in the cheek can also be the symptom of this cancer. Notify your doctor when you experience these symptoms so that he can check if you are suffering from this cancer.

2. Red or white patches in the mouth, gums or tongue. The size and appearance of these patches can change and they can be the sign of this cancer.

3. Numbness and teeth problems. A sign of mouth cancer can be painful teeth. If your teeth become painful or they are loose, be wary of this condition. Oral cancer can also cause the jaw to swell. Thus if you wear denture and your jaw swells, you will feel that it doesn't fit properly anymore. Another sign of this cancer is any numbness in the mouth.

4. Bad breath and voice changes. Commonly, someone who is suffering from this cancer has bad breath and voice changes. The breath usually doesn't go away with brushing or mouth wash usage. You should also notice any voice changes as it can be the sign of oral cancer.

These are some common symptoms of mouth cancer but if you experience one of these symptoms, it doesn't mean that you are infected by the disease. You may only have an infection that can be cured with antibiotics. If you are suspicious about the symptoms that you experience, take a note of them. Make a list and show it to your doctor on your next visit.

To find out more information about mouth cancer symptoms please visit http://symptomsof-disease.com/2011/10/prevention-of-the-mouth-cancer-symptoms/ You will find some useful information and tips.

Liver Cancer Tell Tale Signs and Symptoms

2011-10-09T23:37:00.002-07:00

Liver is one of the important parts of our body that secrets bile juice and helps in the digestion of the food we eat. When cells in the liver start growing at an abnormal rate causing problems in the normal functioning of the liver then it should be suspected as liver cancer. It is very difficult to identify liver cancer at an early stage as it shows no signs and symptoms. Often the symptoms shown are also misleading and felt as some other health problem.

Scientific research shows that the causes of liver cancer are obesity, hepatitis B or C infection, extreme alcohol use and forming of Aflatoxin B1 from a mold called Aspergillus in our body. This mold enters our body through food. Coming to types of liver cancer the most common type is Hepato cellular cancer also called as Carcinoma. The other types are Cholangio carcinoma, Hepato blastoma and Angio sarcoma.

As told no particular symptoms are shown in the early stages of this cancer. But as the cancer develops then we can see some symptoms like pain in the abdomen. The pain is because of swelling of liver due to cancer cells. The other common symptom is Jaundice. Jaundice causes yellowing of skin or whitening of eyes. In the early stages we can see discoloration of skin.

Usually upset of abdomen is also observed in the cancer of the liver patients. This makes the patient lose the urge for food which leads to abnormal weight loss. Patients may feel unusually nauseous and may begin to vomit. As the disease progress one may observe fluids forming in the abdomen. Most of the times patients suffer with fever because of which patient may get headache, chills or sweating. Other common symptom is white and chalky stools.

Even though it is not possible to diagnose cancer of the liver in the early stages it is better to go to a doctor and undergo required tests when any of the above symptoms are observed. The chances of cure are high when liver cancer is in early stage than in advanced stage. In advanced stage the option is liver transplantation. With liver transplantation you are put on a waiting list until a compatible liver is found.

Best rout to take would be to go to the doctor when you are feeling bad. That way they can do the necessary test to see what the problem is and how best to treat it.

Next, read about Liver Cancer Signs. To read more about this subject go to Liver Signs and Symptoms blog.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6605223

The Official Goal of Therapy in Advanced Stages of the Disease: Increase Survival

2011-10-09T23:37:00.000-07:00

For any type of cancer there are 4 stages (in ascending order of severity) that assess the extent of the disease. Knowing the stage of disease is important to provide the most appropriate care for the sick, as well as to formulate a likely prognosis.

Stages one and two are considered early. The tumor is limited and the prognosis, especially if there is no lymph node involvement, is often positive. Stages III and IV are considered advanced and the prognosis is usually poor. The disease has spread to other organs and usually turns out to be more aggressive and resistant to treatment. The tumor, at this point, having made metastases, must be attacked in a systemic way.

As a result of this surgery is often not valid clinical indication and therapy is usually represented by the most appropriate chemotherapy for the initial treatment (1 st line) and molecular targeted drugs for the next treatment (2nd line), possibly more cycles of radiotherapy.

In advanced disease, these therapies, while having systemic action, like acting on the whole body, no longer aims to heal, but they are designed to increase survival by limiting the possible symptoms of the disease and the patient's pain (objective cure / palliative). With a few exceptions represented by tumors with low-grade malignancies (eg testicular cancer), the finding with advanced neoplasia III or stage IV for which you can only groped to slow down the development, is living with the situation more dramatic for a patient with cancer (and its expensive).

It's a terrible psychological situation: it feels condemned to death. They are negative thoughts like, "maybe I'll die in a few months", "maybe the disease progresses I will try to short to unbearable pain", "what will the lives of my loved ones be without me", and other conflicting thoughts which a natural instinct for survival leads in any case to entertain hopes of "maybe if I can survive for some years, then I can count on a new cure", "maybe I can get into some new experimental protocol", "maybe there is a Unofficial miraculous cure ".

My mother died of cancer that is the reason why this information is very dear to my heart.

Maybe you also know people of you have dear ones that have left you due to this serious illness.

Still there is always hope. Research is evolving each an every day. Be confident and have faith. Alternatives cures for cancer may be the way.

The author has found an alternative cure for cancer. You can read about it here.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6604235

Pediatric Brain Tumors and Brain Cancer - Funding Is Key for Research and Support

2011-04-06T01:33:00.000-07:00

Every day, across America, people are talking about the progress being made in medical research, or the support provided to patients and families affected by a devastating disease or illness. One thing that often gets lost in these conversations is the issue of money. Research can only move forward if there's funding to support it. Nonprofit organizations and other support groups operate primarily from donations; and even fundraising activities require a budget of some sort. None of these can happen without money.

And, somewhere out there, right now, a group of parents is having that very conversation about the deadliest of all childhood cancers-pediatric brain tumors and brain cancer. What's the latest in research? What kind of support is out there for the kids and families? Why isn't more being done, and faster? It is the mission of the nonprofit organizations that support this worthwhile cause to provide answers to these questions, and they understand that the answers come through proper funding.

Research

Research on the causes and cures of pediatric brain tumors and brain cancer is ongoing, but often progresses at a slower rate than desired. There have, however, been some recent successes in this area of research, including the creation of a tissue consortium, and the publishing of a major study of medulloblastoma, a type of brain tumor typically found in children. ("The Genetic Landscape of the Childhood Cancer Medulloblastoma"; Science, published online Dec. 16, 2010.)

Support

Through a variety of programs and services, most nonprofit organizations work to meet the needs of these young patients and their families. Services such as support groups and various family events, as well as assistance with a variety of issues relating to care, treatment, and financial aid give these families the sense that they are not alone on this difficult journey.

Awareness and Education

Anyone who owns or operates a business understands the necessity of marketing. Awareness of the product or services offered is critical to the success of that business. Of course, successful marketing requires a sufficient source of funds to "get the word out."

In that sense, nonprofit organizations are no different than any other business. In order to promote awareness of pediatric brain tumors and brain cancer, there must be a solid marketing plan in place. How else will the average person learn that every day, across this country...

• Nine families will learn their child has a brain or spinal cord tumor;
• Three families will mourn the loss of their child to a brain or spinal cord tumor; and
• Six families will transition to survivorship.

Funding for the ongoing research and essential services provided by the nonprofit groups comes primarily from a mix of events, direct response, online fundraising, and major and planned gift solicitation. For the most part, events constitute the predominant source of funds to back these activities.

With adequate funding, progress can continue that will improve the treatment, quality of life and long-term outcomes for children with brain and spinal cord tumors.

How does the old saying go? "No gift is too small; no kind gesture goes unnoticed." Contact a nonprofit organization today to find out how you can help in the fight against pediatric brain tumors and brain cancers.

This article was written by Joe Fay, Executive Director of the Children's Brain Tumor Foundation. For more information, or to make a donation, please visit http://www.cbtf.org. Contact Joe Fay at jfay@cbtf.org or 800-228-4673. This article is free to be reprinted as long as the bio remains intact.

Pediatric Brain Tumors and Brain Cancer Alter the Definition of Normal

2011-04-05T01:32:00.000-07:00

For most of us, today will begin like any other day. We'll sip our coffee, skim the morning paper, drop the kids off at school, and perform the normal rituals that make up our daily lives. The good, the bad, and yes, even the somewhat ugly; we'll tackle it all with confidence and a sense of comfort, knowing that tomorrow, as routine as it may be, we'll get to do it all over again.

But, for several families across America, today will be different. Today will be life-changing.

Today...

• Nine families will learn their child has a brain or spinal cord tumor;
• Three families will mourn the loss of their child to this dreadful disease; and
• Six families will transition to survivorship.

Each year, an estimated 3,400 children in the United States are diagnosed with a brain tumor or brain cancer. Approximately one-third of these children will survive no more than five years, making this the deadliest of all childhood cancers. For the families of these kids, there will never be another "normal" day. Their days will now be filled with medical appointments, treatment options, and learning how to operate within a new definition of "normal."

Thankfully, hope springs eternal. The survival rate for children with brain tumors and brain cancer has increased significantly over the past twenty years. Advancements in research have resulted in better treatment methods, improvements in the quality of life and the long-term outlook for these young patients. However, survival does bring with it an all-new set of unique challenges. Treatments can cause damaging late effects on survivors; effects that range from cognitive impairment, to physical challenges, to social isolation.

Collaborations between nonprofit organizations, research foundations and leading medical institutions have proven to be instrumental in the fight against these childhood cancers. By joining forces, these groups are able to connect the best of the best to keep research moving forward, raise public awareness, and provide support to the patients and families who need it.

Several non-profit organizations have been established over the years to provide help to families who find themselves on this new and very difficult life path. Most of these groups offer resources for education, assistance with medical and financial services, and much-needed emotional support through a variety of family outreach programs and special events.

These nonprofit organizations work tirelessly in their battle to make pediatric brain tumors and brain cancers a disease of the past. They are continually searching for research partners, corporate sponsors, and private foundations to help support ongoing research. Individual donations are also critical to the success of these organizations. While much work is being done, and progress is being made, the need to raise awareness, fund research, and provide support is ongoing.

A quick Internet search and a few simple clicks of the mouse will land you on the website of one of these dedicated, nonprofit organizations. Once there, you'll likely find an abundance of valuable information, along with resources and opportunities to help. Why not spend a little time today learning more about this devastating disease? Perhaps, make a donation, or even sign on as a volunteer. Not only can you help to redefine "normal" for these kids and their families; you might just alter your own idea of "normal" as well.

The Brain Tumor Symptoms

2011-04-02T01:31:00.000-07:00

The symptoms of brain tumor vary from patient to patient, and most of these symptoms can also be found in people without brain tumors. So the only way to know if you really have a brain tumor or not is to consult your doctor and get a brain scan.

Headache is the symptom that is common with 46% of patients with tumors. They described this headache in a different way and no reason is a sure sign of a brain tumor for many. Perhaps most people have headaches at some point in their lives, so it is not sure sign of brain tumors. You should talk to your doctor if your headaches are different than you've ever had, with nausea / vomiting, aggravated by bending or effort to go to the bathroom.

Seizures: This was the second most common symptom reported, with 33% of patients reporting a seizure before the diagnosis was made. Seizures can be caused by other things, such high fever, as epilepsy, stroke, trauma and other disorders. This is a symptom that should never be ignored, whatever the cause. In a person who has never had a seizure before, it usually indicates something serious and you should get a brain scan.

A crisis is a sudden and involuntary change in behavior, muscle control, consciousness, and / or sensation. Symptoms can vary from attack and sudden loss of consciousness total agitation of the violent shaking or slight shaking of a limb. A person can experience blurred vision, slurred speech or staring into space and doing other odd behaviors, while having a seizure. About 10% of United States population will experience a single seizure in their lives.

Nausea and Vomiting: As with headaches, these are non-specific - meaning that most people who have nausea and vomiting do not have a brain tumor. Twenty-two percent of our respondents said nausea / vomiting as a symptom.

Nausea and / or vomiting are more likely to look for a brain tumor which is accompanied by other symptoms mentioned here.

Vision problems or hearing: Twenty-five percent reported vision problems first. It is not easy if you have a problem with your hearing or sight, to be extracted. I have often heard that the eye doctor is the first to make diagnoses. When you look in your eyes, sometimes you can see the signs more. Intracranial pressure, because it must be studied.

Problems with the weakness of the arms, legs and facial muscles, and strange sensations in the head or hands: Twenty-five percent reported weakness in the arms or legs. Sixteen percent expressed feelings of weird and strange sensations in there head. This can lead to an altered gait, falling objects, falls, or asymmetric facial expression. These can be symptoms of a stroke. Sudden onset of symptoms is an emergency - you should go to medical emergencies. If you notice a gradual change over time, you should know.

Support Programs Are Vital To Families Of Children With Brain Tumors And Brain Cancer

2011-03-29T01:32:00.000-07:00

When a child is diagnosed with a brain tumor or brain cancer, the initial impact that news has on the family is simply overwhelming. This is a crucial time for the patient, parents and families, as well as friends. Time is often of the essence; quick decisions and fast actions are typically required, and, in a split second, lives are changed forever.

Thus begins a journey down a very long and difficult road. Where do parents go for information? Who do they turn to for support? How will they know what's best for their child? It's imperative that these families have resources available to them to assist them in making the critical decisions that they now face.

Thankfully, there are a number of exceptional family support and outreach programs sponsored by nonprofit organizations focusing on children's brain tumors and brain cancer. These programs provide valuable resources for education, assistance and support. While there are many reasons for parents of children with brain tumors to connect with a support group, three of the primary reasons are discussed below.

Education

One of the first questions asked by parents of children newly diagnosed with brain tumors and brain cancer is "What does this mean for my child?"

Family support and outreach programs can answer this and countless other questions by providing resources for general awareness of the disease, treatment options, and even facilities equipped to provide the best treatments available. Support programs can also help families stay abreast of the latest research that's being done with regard to treatments, survivorship, and long-term effects for the survivors of this deadly disease.

Assistance

Assistance for families taking this difficult journey can come in a variety of forms. It may involve locating the right doctors and facilities to care for their child, or perhaps, working through the maze of insurance forms and red tape. Researching options for financial aid, or finding local resources for supplies or services that might be needed for the child's care and recovery are also ways in which these support groups can offer help to these families.

In addition to the assistance provided to individual families, these nonprofit organizations work tirelessly on promoting and servicing the overall mission - finding better treatments for kids suffering from brain tumors and brain cancer, and improving the quality of life for survivors.

Support

Above all else, the parents and loved ones of these kids need emotional support. They need to belong to a community of people who are traveling the same, long road that they find themselves on. They need to know that they are not alone in their journey.

The emotional support that is given so freely in these family outreach programs cannot be found anywhere outside these unique groups of fathers, mothers, sisters and brothers. Who can better understand the grief a mother feels when she learns that her instincts about her child's health were right? Or the sorrow that consumes a father when he finally allows himself to cry, alone in the shower? And who better to share the joy when a family transitions to survivorship?

These family support groups offer not only support for parents and extended families, but for the patients, as well. Understanding the toll that this dreadful journey takes on all, most support groups sponsor a variety of conferences, camps, and other events throughout the year as a respite to the families. These events provide opportunities to connect with others in this unique community, while also gaining insight into educational and vocational opportunities.

Being very much aware of the needs of bereaved families, and families of survivors, as well, there are also support groups that are geared specifically to their needs. Some of these groups have mentors; parents who have stood in the same shoes, who work with families in a number of ways as they move through the difficult transitions.

Education. Assistance. Support. Connecting with the right support group is essential for parents and families facing this difficult journey. Parents, you are not alone. Help is out there, waiting for your call.

Strength in Numbers: The Value of Collaboration in Pediatric Brain Cancer Research

2011-03-27T01:30:00.000-07:00

Scientific research is the key component in the battle to cure pediatric brain tumors and brain cancer. Its success points directly to the value of collaborations among researchers, medical facilities, nonprofit organizations and even private philanthropies. These groups often come together with a common purpose, and join forces to work towards a single goal - finding a cure for this terrible childhood disease.

There are many such collaborative efforts taking place in the area of pediatric brain cancer, which is considered to be the deadliest of all childhood cancers. For instance, there is the newly established, Brain Tumor Tissue Consortium, involving the Children's Brain Tumor Foundation and researchers at several leading pediatric oncology hospitals nationwide. This consortium enables researchers to obtain samples of brain tumor tissue that can be used to evaluate treatments. The results can then be documented in a database that can be shared with pediatric cancer facilities across the country.

The result of another such partnership recently came by way of a landmark study of medulloblastoma*, a type of brain tumor typically found in children. (*"The Genetic Landscape of the Childhood Cancer Medulloblastoma," Science, published online, December 16, 2010). The large, multi-center study defines the genetic landscape of this cancer, and holds intriguing clues to gene changes on signaling pathways that may become fruitful targets for future therapies. This is a very significant and hopeful finding, and one that researchers, doctors and parents alike are celebrating.

There are a number of other, ongoing research programs that also center on establishing better treatment methods, reducing the adverse side effects of these treatments, and increasing the number of survivors. While progress is being made, it continues to be challenging for a number of reasons:

There are many different kinds of children's brain and spinal cord tumors, which has stymied research as investigators face the challenges of collecting and analyzing tissue;
Because the disease is rare and tissue samples of tumors are small, it takes time to test and validate new treatment options; and
Funds for research and treatment options are limited, due to the relatively low rate of incidence, compared to other childhood cancers and diseases.

While the incidence rate of pediatric brain tumors and brain cancers may be relatively low, with approximately 3,400 children diagnosed each year, nearly one in three of these children will not survive more than five years. And, those who do survive will likely suffer damaging, long-term effects from the very treatments that saved them. However, due to the dedicated research that has taken place over the last twenty years, there have been noticeable decreases in the overall cancer death rates. The research taking place today will hopefully, someday help to minimize the side effects and allow these survivors to live longer, healthier lives.

We read about breakthroughs in medical research every day, and when we do, we applaud the researchers, and rejoice for those who might benefit from the results. We celebrate the success of the research programs, as we should; but it's important to understand the efforts behind the breakthroughs. It requires unwavering dedication from the researchers, doctors and other medical professionals, tremendous commitment from the nonprofit organizations that help promote the cause, and an extraordinary sense of charity from the financial supporters. Talk about a collaborative effort! There likely would be no breakthroughs; no success stories to celebrate were it not for the alliances formed by these remarkable groups of people.

To learn more about current research efforts in the area of pediatric brain cancer, make a donation, or find out how you might become a partner in one of these collaborative programs, contact one of the many nonprofit organizations or medical research facilities focused on bringing an end to this dreadful disease. Many together can accomplish more than one, alone.

Knowledge Is Power For Parents Of Children With Brain Cancer Or Spinal Cord Tumors

2011-03-24T01:29:00.001-07:00

As parents, the ultimate dream we have for our children is that their childhoods will be happy ones, and they will grow up to lead long and healthy lives. Yet, every day, across America, there will be nine families whose dreams will be shattered when they learn that their child has a spinal cord tumor or some form of brain cancer. And, by the end of the year, over 3,000 families will have faced that same moment; when time stood still, the world blurred, and their lives changed forever.

From the moment their child is diagnosed, parents embark on a journey that will challenge every aspect of their being - from intellectual and physical, to mental, emotional and spiritual. It is essential that these parents have a strong support network, with family and friends taking on a vital role in that network. Along with that key component, parents also need a structured system that can provide resources to help them navigate the many challenges they will face, and assist them in making the best possible decisions for their child's health and well-being.

Once past the initial shock of the diagnosis, parents begin searching for answers to the flood of questions rushing through their minds. Knowledge is power, and early education about this disease can provide a lifeline in these dark waters.

There are several good sources for information on pediatric brain tumors and brain cancer, all of which can provide resources for education, assistance and support--

• Family doctors and pediatricians;
• Children's hospitals and cancer treatment facilities; and
• Nonprofit organizations focused on pediatric brain cancer.

Here are just a few examples of what a parent might find within the FAQ sections of these organizations:

Q: What are the causes of pediatric brain cancer and spinal cord tumors?
A: There are many different kinds of pediatric brain cancer, and their precise causes are still unknown, although research programs are making advancements towards understanding the causes, as well as improving treatments.

Q: What is the prognosis for most young patients with this disease?
A: Current statistics show that one in three patients will survive no more than five years. However, thanks to the progress that has been made in research over the past twenty years, there has been a significant decline in the overall cancer death rates, and it is estimated that there are 25,000 brain tumor survivors in the U.S. today.

Q: What are the treatment options for a child with a brain tumor or brain cancer?
A: Treatment of brain or spinal cord tumors includes surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, depending on the type, rate of growth and location of tumors. It usually begins with surgical resection to remove all or part of the tumor. Although complete removal of the tumor (gross total resection) is often the treatment of choice, partial removal of the tumor will occasionally relieve a child's symptoms.

For parents who find themselves facing this life-altering journey, help is available in many forms, and from several well-respected organizations. Whether the need involves education about this dreadful disease, finding sources for medical or financial assistance, or simply connecting with others in similar situations, the resources are available. Reaching out to one of these organizations can often make the difference in how this journey is traveled-by the parents, and by the patient.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5968272

What Are The Symptoms And Stages Of a Brain Tumor?

2011-03-18T01:29:00.000-07:00

From the latest research in the field of medicine it is evident that there are lots of patients who are suffering from the painful condition of brain tumor. It is a disease which has taken many lives and still many are struggling hard to survive from this detrimental syndrome. For the cure, many neurologists have been successful in fighting back this disease but still there is a lot more to do to face this challenge. And for this reason, the experts from cancer treatment and radiation therapy are coming forward to participate in the fight against cancer.

Brain tumor is a very harmful and dangerous disease. It only results in the patient's death if it is not controlled in its earlier stage. By reading this article you will know more about Brain tumor, its symptoms and its treatment process. This information will be helpful if you are suffering from the same condition.

Symptoms:

There are many symptoms of brain tumor which neurologist describe. Among them, the most common symptoms are Headaches, Nausea, Hearing troubles, Sight misperception, Vision problem and sometimes problems in the behavioral functioning.

Headaches:

Regular headaches are common in a brain tumor patient. These are regular and frequent and can take place at any instant. When the headaches are in the primary stage, they are preventable, but when the disease enters a severe stage, they are unstoppable and can even take the patient's life. Well it can be and cannot be a complete sign of a brain tumor. If the patient is receiving constant headaches then it can be a sign but consulting the experienced practitioner to find out if it is really a symptom of this condition or not.

Vomiting and Nausea:

These symptoms are sometimes rare and sometimes frequent in the patient. Vomiting and nausea can be a middle stage symptom of the brain tumor, but for confirmation the patient should consult the neurologist. With the latest research, the experts have declared that there are 22 patients out of hundred who had called Nausea as brain tumor's symptom.

Loss of hearing and vision:

According to the latest report, there are 25% patients who had loss of hearing and vision. But it is also not a true symptom for brain tumor. Sometimes, it depends upon the tendency of the patient as to what sort of symptoms he or she is carrying with the disease.

Stages:

Stage 1:

This is a very primary stage of brain tumor in which the cells are not fully shaped and they do not even start to multiply. The cure is easy in this stage as the cells can easily be separated from the brain through a surgery.

Stage 2:

This is a stage where the cell activates in a slow growth form. This stage requires instant surgery; otherwise there is chance for the disease to go into its third stage which is more dangerous and risky,

Stage 3:

This stage is proficient for the cells to split up. They starts growing more rapidly and it requires a serious attention if the patient is to be recovered.

Stage 4:

This stage is the extreme of all stages where the cure becomes very difficult because the tumor cells have populated the entire brain section. This stage is very difficult to cure but can be cured if an urgent surgery is carried out. Most of the brain tumor's patient die in this last stage as many times the surgery does not remove the disease. That is why many neurologists advice the patients to treat it the very first stage so that the disease stops spreading.

Stewart Wrighter has been searching the term cancer treatment New York in order to find the latest options because he is authoring an article on the subject for a major news magazine. He searched the term radiation therapy New York in order to find a treatment center.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5987345

Lymphoma Cancer Survival Rate - Is There a New Cure?

2011-03-15T01:12:00.000-07:00

The lymphoma cancer survival rate depends greatly on many factors. Typically, the survival rate is given in percentages during time frames. That is not an accurate prognosis, and you shouldn't be looking at it. Research is constantly conducted in the field of lymphoma and currently there is a very effective new way to put the cancer in remission.

The survival rate depends on the type of lymphoma. On average, 50% of lymphoma patients get cure, either by chemotherapy, or by spontaneous remission. Since now we have the new natural treatment option, the future survival rate of lymphoma patients will depend largely on how many people learn about the new treatment option. Chemotherapy has many side effects, and is generally speaking ineffective for treating lymphoma cancer. The lymphoma is one of the slowest spreading cancers, but it is also the one with the most profound symptoms, which makes it extremely difficult to live with.

Statistics show that most patients get cured of lymphoma cancer during their 4th-7th year of being sick. Now we know that the reason for that is spontaneous remission. We also know that 'spontaneous' is synonymic for 'idiopathic'. That means that the person usually did something very specific to rid themselves of the cancer, they are just not aware of it. Lymphoma gets cured by the body, and it is the only mechanism in existence, that can cure cancer. External intrusive procedures do not work. In rare cases, surgery can be done to remove cancerous tumors, but that is not effective when it comes to lymphoma. Generally speaking, the information on cancer is very controversial, because medical companies are trying to promote their products, which rarely work and often require daily administration. That is an effective business model, but the end result is nonexistent and people keep living with the cancer.

One of the most useful things is looking at stories of people who suffered from lymphoma, but got cured without apparent reason. When you look at countless such cases, certain patterns emerge and that can be used as the base of a new cure. That is exactly what researchers recently did, and its the reason why the melanoma cancer survival rate depends mostly on how informed people are of the new cures that can be used.

The Power of Red Reishi and Cancer

2011-03-14T01:08:00.001-07:00

Get to Know the Immortality Herb

The red reishi mushroom botanical herb is a trustworthy herbal tonic. This mushroom has history that can be traced back to 2000 years ago. Chinese physicians have used this red reishi mushroom botanical herb to condition a person's health. According to the history of the early Chinese dynasties, this mushroom can be found at the Mount Penglai. This mushroom has been a symbol of peace and prosperity in the nation. It is also attributed for the longevity of emperor. Ancient Chinese people consider it a source of immortality. But the herb is difficult to find and acquire.

Reishi is a Japanese term that aptly means immortality plant. In China it has been known as Lingzhi. Ling is Chinese word for spirit or effective and zhi refers to plant that has source of strength. When put together, the red reishi mushroom botanical herb is considered a source of spiritual potency and strength. This mushroom has been given the botanical name, Ganoderma Lucidum. It generally tastes bitter and is red in color.

But there are other types of reishi mushrooms that have their own benefits:

Blue reishi, which is known to improve eyesight and liver performance
Yellow reishi for curing spleen problems
White reishi for protecting the kidney from any irregularities
Black reishi, which gets rid of lung disorders
Purple reishi mushroom to boost eyesight, refine complexion, and release the tension in the joints

The red reishi mushroom botanical herb is the most recognizable and most widely used. This herb has been known to aid and protect the internal organs and also improve one's memory. This red reishi mushroom has been tapped to cure cancer and AIDS. Studies show that the mushroom is composed of substances that could make it the ultimate solution to modern health problems that have caused the death of many. Soon, there could be a cure to these deadly diseases and there is new hope for longer, more fulfilling life. This fungus is toxic-free and has no side effects. It should be safe to use, but that does not mean that you should not regulate your intakes. The ancient Chinese people may have placed their faith on the mushroom, but modern medicine is still yet to give the green signal on its effects.

So, how much red reishi mushroom botanical herbs do you need? Experts would prescribe a hundred milligrams to eliminate infection, increase your resistance, and relieve your joint pains. Others may suggest a thousand milligrams or the equivalent of three capsules a day. This is actually not wrong but bear in mind that it still depends on someone's body system. It will be best to consult with your doctor if you are planning on taking it as your supplement. Do not self-medicate if you do not want to gamble your health away. The reishi could be the hidden elixir of life, but the only way to keep you healthy is to be careful about what you take in to address your health problems.

Hotchkins Lymphoma - Is There Hope? Yes!

2011-03-12T01:13:00.000-08:00

The hotchkins lymphoma disease is a dangerous type of cancer, which spreads very slowly. The symptoms of the hotchkins lymphoma are very uncomfortable and make it very difficult to live with this type of cancer. Fortunately, this type of lymphoma can be reversed with a very high success rate, provided that you follow the right principles and educate yourself.

When it comes to this type of cancer, doctors often follow routine protocol and make more harm than good to patients. There is a lot of new research in this field, which makes it easier and easier to cure the cancer. As we all know, there is currently no 'official' cure for cancer. That means that there is no 'magic pill', which works every time, not that cancer can't be cured. That may sound controversial, and it is. By far, the most effective way to deal with hotchkins lymphoma is to enable your own body to get rid of the disease on its own. That is accomplished by supplying it with the proper tools for the job, so that your body can identify which cells are cancerous and which are not.

Cancer cells are constantly produced in the body, and it has no problem dealing with them. In a certain percentage of people, however, the cancer cells become 'different', and the body can no longer identify them as harmful. That process can be reversed, and that's the most promising new cure for cancer. If you have lymphoma you probably know that you have a long time left. That does a lot of harm to many people, because as a result they just become comfortable and keep waiting for a 'magic pill' to be developed. That is not going to happen, and there are many effective cancer cures already. It is very important that hotchkins lymphoma patients educate themselves when it comes to the disease. There are many people who claim to have found a cure, but they have actually accomplished nothing. But there are also effective ways to enable your body to fight the cancer, and you should be focusing on them.

Four Types of Malignant Tumors

2011-02-14T01:09:00.000-08:00

Cancer may be malignant or benign. By way of the varieties of cells that form the tumor and by the trait features of those tumors, they are classified as carcinomas, sarcomas, lymphomas and leukemias. Several types of illustrative examinations are there to confirm, which types of disease a patient possesses. We will deal about these four types of tumor types one by one below.

Sarcomas: They will form only mostly in the connective tissues of the human body. Sarcoma has a special characteristic feature of spreading and invading any of the organ in the body. They generally occur in the blood vessels and lymphatic tubes, as they are formed by the connective tissues. Apart from these areas, sarcomas also form in the tissues of muscles, tissues of fibers, bones, bone cartilages, tissues of fat, and so on. The best examples of sarcomas are Ewing's sarcoma and Kaposi's sarcoma. These both types of tumors are of malignant sarcomas and are deadly in nature.

Carcinomas: These types of tumors mostly form in the tissues that contain epithelium. Skin in the body contains epithelium on it and covers the core organs of the body. These types of tumors are deadly and life-threatening neoplasm (new development) in nature. They commonly occur on the outer skin of the penis, urinary organs, around prostate glands, and ureters, core parts of the small intestines, and the interior part of the nose.

Leukemias: These tumors arise in the blood, especially in the white blood cells, and so they are called as leukemias or blood cancer. Blood originates in the bone marrow wherefrom blood passes to the other organs of the body through blood vessels. When leukemia tumor arises in the bone marrow, blood generates more white blood cells, and this abnormality is found when the blood test was done to the patient. These white blood cells are immature in nature.

Lymphomas: These types of tumors are also formed in the blood cells called lymphocytes on the lymph vessels and the glands of the lymphatic system. Lymph system is the autoimmune system of the body. These tumors commonly are life-threatening in nature.

Benign cancers are curable in nature; on the contrary to this malignant cancers are life-threatening and complicated in nature. Early detection and correct regimen of radiation, drugs, chemotherapy or hormonal therapy are essential needs of cancer disease. Many cancer treatments are costly. Cancer treatments are of two types, such as palliative and curative. Palliative treatments are given to the end-stage patients just to give them physical comfort and peace of mind. Curative measures are given to the patients with progressive and initial stages of disease.

Lymphoma - Symptoms And Prevention

2011-02-05T01:11:00.000-08:00

Diseases like tumors, sarcoma, melanoma, and lymphoma have threatened many human lives. When we look on any type of cancers we will find many experts are doing research to find out the best cures for the patients. Besides this there are experts in prostate cancer and in acoustic neuroma that have been successful in introducing some form of treatment but still there is much more progress required to treat the large number of patients. Let us move to the disease of Lymphoma, which has become one of the common causes of fatalities these days. Hopefully those suffering from this condition will get some basic help.

What is Lymphoma?

Lymphoma is a type of building up disease which disturbs the cycle of lymphatic system. Lymphatic system is a part of immune system, a system which helps our body to fight against bacteria and viruses. When the system gets disturbed, the disease starts to spread because there is no other way to fight back the bacteria and constant virus attacks inside the body. It is a kind of disease which when spreads in any part of the body starts to decay that section. It is really a cursing disease and has put many lives to suffer.

Often we come to hear about the "Lymph Nodes". This is the section where lymphoma tends to attack. These nodes are swollen at the time we are carrying any bacterial infection. A time comes when the cells in this section start to develop and their rapid growth curse the section. The final stage of this development results in Lymphoma.

Causes & Symptoms:

With the research, the experts have not declared any definite causes for the diseases as every patient is having his or her own symptom for the disease. However, there are some general risk factors which can give you a bit sign but still there is a deep diagnosis required to testify the suspected patient.

Age:

There are two age groups who are found with the disease. The first percentile is reported in old people, who are above the age of 60. In children it is recorded in the kids who have a weak or pre-mature immune system.

Already disturbed or weak immune system:

The person with a weaker immune system can easily come under the influence of Lymphoma. A weak immune system itself invites this disease after that it spreads rapidly.

Inherited:

Lymphoma can be inherited. If anyone had the same syndrome in his or her family, then it increases the likelihood for the disease to come back to the person.

Other diseases of stimulation:

There are some diseases which also invites the urgency of Lymphoma. The most common are HIV Aids and hepatitis C.

Prevention:

As the disease does not have any confirmed symptoms, the choices of prevention are also very limited. According to the experts' advice, you can prevent yourself by eradicating the risk factors. There are some automatic risk factors which you cannot avoid, like inheritance factor. But you can avoid some risk factors which are in your hand like avoid smoking etc.

Melanoma - A Syndrome With Severe Affects

2011-02-01T01:10:00.000-08:00

The medical experts who deal with lung cancer and Pancreas cancer have been working as a team to bring a common understanding in curing such types of cancers. There are different tumors which are also a part of their active research but they are still striving hard because there is a long way to go. Actually the major reason of these developing diseases is the unhealthy life style of people.

People today are addicted to unhealthy diet, smoking, drugs; alcohol and even improper cleaning have brought them in a state where they are under constant threat of hazardous diseases. Among those diseases, there is a very populated disease called as Melanoma. In this disease, a tumor develops in the tissues of skin. It is a very dangerous disease which causes swelling of the section where it appears.

Let us discuss how this disease spreads and what the possible measures to control it are:

Melanoma Defined:

It is a very hazardous skin disease which can take a person's life if the treatment is not effective. There is a dark coating which comes across the area where the tumor begins.

Melanoma is a skin tumor which arises from melanocyte cells. When the cells start to develop, they give birth to a dark pigment called melanin. The dark shade on the skin comes from melanin. Here is when the skin starts to decay and in severe conditions can reciprocate the skin's normal condition. That is why experts call it a pure skin disease which damages the cells of the skin and in worst conditions it can even penetrate into the flesh of the body.

Types of Melanoma:

The melanoma is classified into four major types, which are as follows:

Spreading melanoma: It is a black and brown shaded melanoma which is more common in Caucasians. This can appear in any age and the appearance of this mole is plain and flattered.

Protruding melanoma: It is a stick out melanoma which is sometimes found with bluish and sometimes with reddish blue color on the body. In rare cases it has no color.

Malevolent melanoma:

This is a skin coating of brown which is damaged by sun rays. It is found in the young people with fair and soft skin. The shape of the disease is irregular and sometimes it has a flat appearance.

Acral melanoma:

It is found in different peripheral body parts like fingers and toes. The dark shade with a greenish black coat appears inside the nail. This type is found in most of African-Americans.

Treatment:

The damaged cells which are grown by the disease can be removed through the surgery. It depends about the sternness of the disease that how much the cells have damaged the skin and the portion inside. If the lymph nodes are also disturbed, the treatment becomes a bit more difficult because the melanoma is impossible to control.

If the disease has damaged the lymph nodes, than there is no other cure than removing the lymph nodes.

Leukemia - The Most Misunderstood Cancer

2011-01-14T01:09:00.000-08:00

Most people perceive Leukemia as being cancer of the blood. This is partly true, but it is a lot more than that. It actually starts in the tissue that produces blood, resulting in abnormal white cells. These don't die as normal blood cells do, and swamp the normal red and white cells and also the platelets, making these cells difficult to do their jobs. These abnormal white cells are actually called Leukemia cells and if they carry on crowding out the normal cells and platelets cause the untimely death of the sufferer.

There are two main kinds of Leukemia, each defined by the way it develops and the speed with which it progresses. These are chronic and acute, which progress slowly and rapidly respectively. In the early stages of Chronic Leukemia, the abnormal cells are still able to work alongside the normal cells, albeit at a reduced rate. As there are no early presentable symptoms, this type is generally diagnosed at a routine health check. In the later stages, when the abnormal cells have reached a critical point, suffers may notice that their lymph nodes are swollen or repeated infections. The abnormal cells in Acute Leukemia can't do any of the work of the normal cells, and they can increase at an alarming rate. These two kinds of Leukemia are then split into further types depending on where they present themselves. The types that appears in the Lymphoid cells are Lymphocytic, Lymphoid or Lymphoblastic. The Leukemias in the Myeloid cells are Myelogenous, Myeloid or Myeloblastic.

There is still no proven reason why some people develop Cancer and those with he same lifestyle don't. Although many have theories it is still a medical mystery. Smoking is widely regarded as a major cause of Cancer, in this case acute Myeloid Leukemia, but there are many non smokers who develop it, and many smokers who don't. Inherited diseases are also thought to play a part, and there sometimes seems to be a family link with Cancer, but unfortunately it still seems to be a lottery as to who will develop Cancer and who won't. It is a fact that many who would be classed as high risk will never develop a Cancer during their lifetime, and this is what is so scary about this ferocious disease.

There are many different kinds of Leukemia treatment, mainly depending on the type. Your age also plays a factor in the treatment, and whether or not the Leukemia cells were present in the fluid produced from a spinal tap. The main treatments are targeted therapy, chemotherapy, biological therapy, stem cell or bone marrow transplant and radiotherapy. As with all Cancers, early diagnosis is vital, something that can be very difficult in Chronic Leukemia.

We should all do what we can to stay fit and healthy so that our bodies continue to do their job effectively, but sadly there are no guarantees that we won't develop Leukemia at some stage. Research is constant and treatment continues to improve, but all we can really do is hope that none of us develop this cruel disease.

Lymphoma - Symptoms And Prevention

2011-01-04T01:11:00.000-08:00

What is Lymphoma?

Causes & Symptoms:

Age:

Already disturbed or weak immune system:

The person with a weaker immune system can easily come under the influence of Lymphoma. A weak immune system itself invites this disease after that it spreads rapidly.

Inherited:

Lymphoma can be inherited. If anyone had the same syndrome in his or her family, then it increases the likelihood for the disease to come back to the person.

Other diseases of stimulation:

There are some diseases which also invites the urgency of Lymphoma. The most common are HIV Aids and hepatitis C.

Prevention:

CNS Lymphoma Explained

2010-10-01T07:47:00.000-07:00

Many individuals suffer from CNS (Central Nervous System) lymphoma. The central nervous system of the body consists of the brain as well as the spinal cord. When a tumor develops in the lymph cells of the body, it is identified as a lymphoma. The lymph cells are an intricate part of the immune system. These specialized cells work to combat infection that may develop within the body.

Most of the CNS lymphomas that are located in the brain and the spinal cord are considered to be malignant. Medical professionals refer to these abnormalities as "Neoplasm". Depending on their size and severity, they have the capability of interrupting the normal functions that a person is capable of such as walking, speaking, and even memory. Here, you will learn more about CNS lymphoma brain cancer tumors.

The Causes

When evaluating the causes of CNS lymphoma, many medical professionals are unable to identify one specific reason why the tumor has developed. There have been theories that this type of cancer comes as a direct result of a malfunctioning immune system. However, many individuals that develop these types of tumors are found to have a fully functional immune system.

Doctors and other types of researchers have determined that when the white blood cells grow in an uncontrolled manner that is part of the system that is referred to as "Lymphatic" that lymphoma develops. The over abundance of the cells eventually spills over into the central nervous system. While often referred to as a tumor, CNS lymphoma is not the same as a traditional tumor - it is simply a large amount of abnormal cells.

Symptoms of CNS Lymphoma

Just like other brain cancer tumors, CNS lymphomas results in many symptoms in those that experience the condition. Many doctors will evaluate the symptoms that a patient has in order to determine if a neurological examination is required. The following symptoms highlight the most common experienced by those that suffer from this particular form of brain cancer:

• Most individuals will experience a drastic change in personality. This is often a direct result of the pressure of the cells on the regions of the brain and the spinal cord.
• Most patients complain of a headache that is moderate to severe. This headache may occur on any region of the head. Many medical professionals use the area where the headache is occurring to determine the location of the CNS lymphoma.
• Patients that suffer from CNS lymphoma often experience moderate to severe nausea. This is often accompanied by bouts of vomiting that may prove to be quite severe.
• Many individuals find that they have a mild to severe case of weakness in the body.
• Numbness and other types of sensations such as tingling may be experienced in the body. This is most common in the face area.
• Many experience sensory complications such as complications when it comes to the ability to see and the ability to hear.

CNS lymphoma is a potentially dangerous brain cancer condition. If you have been diagnosed with this condition, you should work with a medical professional in order to receive treatment so that the symptoms that you experience are drastically reduced.

What is Lymphoma Cancer?

2010-09-18T07:45:00.000-07:00

The lymphatic system is comprised of the lymph, lymph vessels, lymph nodes, bone marrow, spleen, and liver. The lymph is the fluid that circulates in the lymphatic system and travels through the body via lymph vessels. The fluid contains lymphocytes - produced by the bone marrow and spleen -that fight pathogens. These cells filter the blood and collect the microorganisms inside lymph nodes. You'll notice that during infections, you will have a palpable node in your neck, under your arms, breasts, and groin. When the pathogens are overwhelmed, toxins and byproducts produced by these cells are then filtered in the liver to be eliminated.
In lymphoma cancer, the problem lies in the lymphocytes, specifically the B-lymphocytes and T-lymphocytes. Hodgkin's lymphoma is a type of lymphoma cancer where the B-lymphocytes have the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells under morphological studies. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, on the other hand, is a type of lymphoma that occurs without the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells. The malignant cells increase in number and size, resulting to a pooling of cells inside a lymph node. The lymph node formed will be rubbery, painless, and does not show any signs of disappearing. Lymphoma cancer is also noted with night sweats, unexplained weight loss, and unexplained fever. There are patients diagnosed with lymphoma but still live for more than 5 to 10 years, making this one of the most curable forms of cancer known to man. Biopsy of the tumor is the definitive way in diagnosing lymphoma. Imaging tests such as X-Ray, CT-Scan, and MRI along with blood tests are done in order to stage the severity of lymphoma cancer.
Treatment of lymphoma cancer can be a form or mix of radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Radiation therapy is done during the early stage, and applied only on a local area where the malignancy is noted. When the malignancy has spread in adjacent and distal parts of the body, chemotherapy is used along with immune-stimulants and corticosteroids such as prednisone. Surviving lymphoma is highly dependent on the stage when the lymphoma was diagnosed and the application of appropriate treatment. Always maintain your regular check up to see if your treatment is appropriate for you, and to monitor how the lymphoma cancer is progressing.

Need to learn more about Lymphoma? Be sure to check out Lymphoma Symptoms which contains in-depth information on Lymphoma Cancer, symptoms, treatment, diagnosis, causes and much more.

Finding a Cancer Cure Would Put the Cancer Care Industry Out of Business!

2010-09-10T07:40:00.000-07:00

Legally, I can't tell you that monatomic gold cures cancer, even though scientific studies have shown that cancer patients taking monatomic gold have experienced improvement in their condition. If you want references, click on the link below. For now, I'll just relate my viewpoint based on what I've read and what I've experienced.
I've never had cancer, but my mom did. She died from the TREATMENT! Her father had cancer and died. My dad's mom had cancer and died. There's a lot of conjecture in the medical community as to the causes of cancer. Before the industrial revolution, cancer cases were rare. Many effective cancer treatment protocols were developed prior to 1950's, but these treatments were suppressed by the mainstream medical establishment at the behest of the pharmaceutical corporations. One natural cancer therapy that I can't legally tell you actually works is cottage cheese and flax oil. That's pretty simple, and totally non-toxic. Won't kill you like chemo-therapy might, like radiation probably will.
A mineral supplement derived from gold, called monatomic gold has been used by ancient cultures throughout earth's history as an aid in spiritual ascension. Modern scientific research has shown that subjects taking monatomic gold show an immediate increase in brain synchronization, leading to stress relief. Legally, I can't tell you that stress causes cancer. I also won't tell you that de-stressing will cure your cancer.
It's also been observed that monatomic gold repairs DNA. It's the DNA that tells the cells what to do, when and how to divide, whether to be healthy or unhealthy. Exposure to environmental toxins like petro-chemicals can damage the DNA, leading to cancer. Certain supplements have shown to aid in detoxification of these unnatural chemicals. Would you be surprised to discover that many pharmaceutical drugs are synthesized from petroleum? What connection do you think might exist between the petroleum industry and the pharmaceutical industry?
Before the prohibition era, Henry Ford produced automobiles designed to run on pure ethanol. John D. Rockefeller of Standard Oil fame used his influence to push for the prohibition of the sale of alcohol, not to stop people from drinking, but to shut down the fuel competition from Ford's ethanol production. Ford had filling stations that were ethanol-dedicated, garnering some 25% of the fuel sales in America. Then came prohibition. Ethanol is a clean-burning fuel, producing no toxic emissions. Petroleum based fuels and petroleum refinement to make gasoline and diesel fuel produces cancer causing toxic by-products. Some of these waste by-products are used in the manufacture of cancer drugs and other pharmaceutical drugs. Read the lists of side-effects! Jeesh!
It's time we grow up and start thinking for ourselves. Television gets most of it's ad revenue from drug ads! Television also uses subliminal messages to program the subconscious mind to action. It's also been discovered that brain-waves of television watchers are identical to brain-waves of subjects under hypnotic trance!
My experience taking monatomic gold is my mind is sharper. My dreams are more vivid, and I experience a greater since of synchronicity of experience. You know those "Aha!" moments? So, how might having access to a greater mental capacity effect your ability to handle health challenges? Do you think you might be able to better sort it out for yourself, rather than just blindly following the advice of some oncologist who has yacht payments to make?
If you'd like more data on high-quality monatomic minerals that I cannot legally tell you have helped many people with cancer, click on the link below. To life!

Samuel Boydston is an explorer in human consciousness. He is intensely engaged in the pursuit of greater ability in the fields of music, the arts and education. More articles at: http://monotomic-monatomicgoldpowder.com/monatomic-gold-powder-monotomic-and-modern-alchemy/.

Hodgkin's Lymphoma Vs Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma

2010-09-06T07:47:00.000-07:00

My introduction to lymphoma came one, quiet July afternoon in 2008 as I was sitting at my desk at work. My husband called. He had been feeling poorly for the last couple of weeks while we were on vacation and had just been to see the doctor.

"The doctor said I've got one of three things," he calmly reported. "But the only one I can remember is lymphoma." He went on to say that he was calling from a hospital bed where he had a few things stuck in and on him. (Before I lost control of my thoughts, I was reminded of an incident two years earlier. Then, my husband had left me a voice mail. The message went something like this: "My appendix burst. I'm in the hospital. You can stop by if you want to.")

Our life plummeted into the realm of conscious uncertainty. Non-medical people, we searched all over the Internet, talked to family, friends, friends of friends, doctors, etc., to find out everything we could about this kind of cancer.

Soon enough, we were reminded of the danger of Internet searches. There is almost too much information -- a lot of it is downright scary and some of it is ultimately inaccurate. Even without really understanding my husband's current condition, we were already contemplating the worst possible outcome.

Types of Lymphoma

There are two main types of lymphoma -- Hodgkin's Lymphoma (also called Hodgkin's Disease) and Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Both types develop in the lymphocytes, white blood cells that are an important part of the body's immune system. The two types have similarities, but there are definite distinctions.

Lymphocytes have two main cell types: B cells or T cells. With lymphoma, either the B cell or the T cell becomes abnormal; the first abnormal cell quickly divides and then subsequent abnormal cells divide, encroaching upon and destroying other lymphatic cells. And, while lymphoma originates in the body's lymphatic system, Hodgkin's Lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma can spread to bone marrow and other organs such as the liver and spleen.

Symptoms and Signs

My spouse had been complaining about aching, swollen lumps in his neck. He had also been having night sweats and fever. These are typical symptoms for both Hodgkin's Lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Other symptoms include breathing problems, fatigue, itching, unexplained weight loss, and swollen lumps in the armpits and/or groin.

The doctors told us it was not uncommon for either type of cancer to appear in adults in their 50's, but, typically, Hodgkin's Lymphoma appears in children and young adults. In contrast, the risk for developing Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma increases with age and typically appears between the ages of 40 and 70.

My husband, a seemingly healthy man who watched his diet and regularly exercised, was in his early 50's.

Diagnosis

After several tests, there was little doubt that my husband had lymphoma, but in order to treat it, the doctors needed to know exactly what type it was.

There are several diagnostic techniques used, either alone or in combination, to make the diagnosis between Hodgkin's Lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. These include blood tests, thorough physical examinations, biopsies of bone marrow, and chest x-rays. The definitive test, however, is the tissue biopsy of part or all of an affected lymph node.

The hospital did a biopsy of one of the lumps on his neck on a Friday. The results would not be available until early the next week. So, it was back to the Internet to see what else we could learn and worry about. Meanwhile, my spouse was suffering and more painful lumps were fast appearing. Overwhelmed with both too much general and too little specific information, we waited for news from the lab.

Under the microscope, the presence of an abnormal B cell called the Reed-Sternberg cell, a particular kind of lymphocyte, indicates Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Diagnosis is not as easy for Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma; there are over 30 different types of Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma which include various types of cells and cell markers.

Finally, on Monday, we learned we were dealing with Anaplastic T cell Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. At last, we knew the enemy.

Treatment

Now that we knew the type of cancer, we had all the usual questions about treatment. Chemo? Radiation? How long? How much?

Like all cancers, lymphoma is characterized by stages which define the extent or severity of the cancer, and treatment differs depending on the cell type and stage. Treatment for Hodgkin's Lymphoma can include radiotherapy, chemotherapy or a combination of the two. Stem cell or blood marrow transplantation can be recommended in more severe cases. Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma is typically treated with chemotherapy; on rare occasions, radiation alone or in combination with chemotherapy is utilized.

The type and severity of lymphoma determine the response to any particular treatment. Other treatments for lymphoma can include radioimmunotherapy or immunotherapy alone; surgery is rarely a treatment option.

In my spouse's case, he had Stage III (of I to IV with IV being the most severe) of an aggressive type of Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. That meant hitting him hard and fast with chemotherapy. They began it almost immediately. The first treatment was excruciating and weakened him, but it provided great results. After a week, he was released with a treatment plan that included five additional chemotherapy sessions.

As we left the hospital, I remember watching my husband - stooped over, thinner by 30-some pounds, frail and weak - as he carefully got into the car in the parking lot. I wondered whether he would ever return to his vibrant, irreverent self.

Statistics for New Cases and Deaths

In 2008, my spouse was one of the estimated 74,340 people to be diagnosed with lymphoma. In that same year, it was estimated that 20,150 people with lymphoma would die. Staggering statistics that we couldn't seem to comprehend at the time.

What Are the Main Hodgkin's Lymphoma Symptoms?

2010-09-06T07:45:00.001-07:00

Hodgkin's lymphoma is a type of lymphoma characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells. These cells are seen in lymphocytes, particularly the T-lymphocytes and B-lymphocytes which are types of WBC's. Lymphocytes are part of your body's immune system, so it would be natural to have problems in fighting infections when you have lymphoma.
When a person has Hodgkin's lymphoma, one major sign is having an enlarged, non-tender, rubbery lymph node located at the neck, armpit, chest, or groin. However, some note presence of pain when alcohol is consumed. Hodgkin's lymphoma symptoms can also include difficulty of breathing, chest pain, or persistent cough due to a lymph node that is pressing on the air passages or lungs.
Other Hodgkin's lymphoma symptoms are unexplained weight loss, unexplained fever, and night sweats. Fatigue can result due to anemia brought about by a weakened production and storage of RBC in the bone marrow and spleen respectively. Three Hodgkin's lymphoma symptoms are called "B symptoms" which are weight loss, persistent fever, and night sweats. The presence of these symptoms is used when staging the disease and to determine just how aggressive the treatment would be.
Hodgkin's lymphoma symptoms can happen in any stages of the disease. However, most types of Hodgkin's lymphoma manifest Hodgkin's lymphoma symptoms when the disease is already at Stage III and Stage IV. This is why it is important to undergo biopsy and other tests to confirm the presence of lymphoma so proper treatment can be given to help fight the disease. A swollen lymph node may indicate just a simple infection, but if it lasts for more than two weeks without any sign of decreasing in size, an appointment with a doctor is a must.
Treatment can range from radiotherapy, chemotherapy, to bone marrow transplant. Never miss a treatment regimen and always maintain your regular check up so you and your doctor will know if the treatment is effective or needs modification. High chance of survival is noted in treating Hodgkin's lymphoma no matter what stage it was diagnosed, so never lose hope and join a support group to help you cope with the disease.

Need to learn more about Lymphoma? Be sure to check out Lymphoma Symptoms which contains in-depth information on Hodgkin's Lymphoma Symptoms, treatment, diagnosis, causes and much more.

How to Cure Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma by Epoch Chemotherapy?

2010-09-05T07:28:00.000-07:00

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Treatment by Epoch Chemotherapy
Epoch Chemotherapy is used as a treatment to cure many types of Cancer. One such treatment is the Non-Hodgkin lymphoma treatment in which the Epoch chemotherapy regimens like etoposide, vincristine, and doxorubicin are injected in the patients along with the drugs like intravenous (IV) bolus cyclophosphamide and oral prednisone for four days.
When the Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma(NHL) treatment was carried on 74 patients their immune system did not respond to the same injected drugs (regimens). But surprisingly the immune system of the patients with the fatal NHL responded nicely to the this treatment.
After this treatment medical tests were done and the test results were found. Results showed that the patients who were in the fourth stage of Lymphoma comprised of 77 % of the patients who had responded to the NHL treatment and all the drugs in Epoch regimen were previously administered in 71 % of the patients. Also it was found that 92% of the patients were injected with at least four of the drugs of the Epoch regimen. Our of 21 patients who did not respond to the Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma treatment,15 responded and only one among them was able to achieve a complete diminution.
Patients with deteriorating CD-20 positive large B-Cells with NHL cells were treated with 375 mg rituximab drug on first day. The Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma treatment was then given to the patients from 2-4 days with the drugs being injected with different proportions into the patient's body. Only Cyclophosphamide with 750 mg was given on the day fifth and 60 mg Prednisone was given orally to the patient on the days 1-14 as a part of the Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma treatment. After treating fifty patients between the ages of 23-72 years having with rituximab drug it was found that the primary large B-Cell lymphoma was spread out in 25 patients and large B-Cell lymphoma was converted to other form in 18 of them. Thus the treatment of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma with the help of Epoch Chemotherapy with rituximab drug proved to be fruitful.
Side Effects of the Epoch Chemotherapy Treatment
We all know that the Epoch Chemotherapy is a treatment which is used when there are complicated cancerous tumors. This treatment is given to the patients by mixing various toxic drugs in proper proportion due to which many harmful side effects are seen. So this treatment should only be given to the patients after studying their family history and then finding that whether those persons are allergenic to the toxic drugs or not.
Sometimes it is found that the patient suffers from nausea, hair loss, depression and appetite loss which are the side effects caused by the toxic drugs that are used during the this treatment. Even some patients become resistant to the drugs which are injected during the epoch chemotherapy treatment while treating the NHL which is a dreadful form of cancer.
In one such study done after the treatment of Non- Hodgkin lymphoma it was seen that the toxicity of the drugs had caused large scale neutropenia and gastrointestinal disorders in the patients.
Friends, we have now understood the importance of the Epoch Chemotherapy in treating cancer patients. Every coin has two sides. So has Epoch Chemotherapy. So do consult doctor before going for any kind of Chemotherapy because self-medication and self-analysis about once health is always dangerous. Always remember that Health is Wealth.
Wish all of you Nice in Health.

Leukemia & Lymphoma Awareness Month

2010-08-26T07:46:00.000-07:00

Leukemia & Lymphoma Awareness Month is right around the corner, so now is a great time to get prepared. Every September, thousands of people join together to commemorate this very special occasion. They work hard by making every effort possible to raise money for blood cancer research. The disease affects 139, 860 Americans alone per year. In other words, every 4 minutes another person is diagnosed with blood cancer. Clearly, these numbers are grim and strong action needs to be taken. While there is already a remarkable amount of exploration being done towards finding the cure, we have not succeeded yet. Thus, more help is always needed, and it starts with you.
If you want to get involved, there are several ways to do it. One of the best awareness events is organized by the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. The event, named the Light the Night Walk is a charity walk held every year for communities across the nation to raise money for donations. The funds raised by the Light the Night walkers go towards providing four important things: blood cancer research, educational materials, local support groups and counseling, and free personalized assistance for victims and their families.
The Light the Night walk is a crucial component of the fundraising process, and the research for finding the cure for leukemia depends upon it. During the course of this event, every Light the Night walker carries with them special illuminated balloons which are color coated for specific purposes. White balloons are for leukemia survivors, red balloons denote leukemia awareness supporters, and gold balloons are reserved for those who have lost a loved one to blood cancer.
If you would like to join the Light the Night Walk, or host your own Leukemia & Lymphoma Awareness event, Motivators also offers a wide selection of Leukemia Awareness Month giveaways for this purpose. Our company understands the tremendous amount of passion and emotion that this event carries with it, so we want to make the best effort possible to provide you with promotional items that are both sensitive and appropriate. With that being said, there are several giveaways that would be ideal for this cause.
For one, the official symbol of Leukemia & Lymphoma is the red blood droplet. If you want to promote Leukemia Awareness in any way, something like a droplet shaped magnet is a classy way to do it. This is a great item to use for getting people to come to your blood drive or fundraiser. Businesses can also get custom imprinting done on these blood drop magnets, along with an inspirational message of your choosing. It isn't done for marketing purposes, but rather just a professional way to show that your company is aware of the fight against blood cancer, and that you care.
Another wonderful giveaway for this occasion is our custom awareness bracelets. The idea of these bracelets began several years ago as the "LiveStrong" bracelets, led by cyclist Lance Armstrong to promote the fight against testicular cancer. Though this item has been worn in present day for just about any purpose, the concept itself is still rooted in the fight against cancer. These bracelets are subtle, and exceptionally appropriate for promoting the fight against leukemia.
If you want to know more about blood cancer, all the information known about the disease can be found at The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

Daniel Namm is an e-marketing specialist for Motivators, Inc., a Long Island based promotional products distributor. The company's website, Motivators.com has over 40,000 e-commerce enabled promotional products. Check out the latest selection of Leukemia Awareness Month giveaways to honor Leukemia & Lymphoma

Umbilical Cord Blood Miracle - How Stem Cells From Umbilical Cord Blood Help in Curing Diseases

2010-08-26T07:44:00.000-07:00

When a baby is born and the umbilical cord is cut, the blood left in the umbilical cord and placenta is usually discarded as medical waste. Not any more, as such blood has been found to be a very important and rich source of stem cells, and stem cells is mankind's latest hope in its battle against age-old fatal diseases.
Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that eventually become the different types of blood cells. And as of today, about 70 medical disorders have been treated with such cells, specifically those taken from the umbilical cord. Such cells are very important in the treatment of, say, leukemia, or cancer of the blood. When patients undergo radiation therapy or chemotherapy, their stock stem cells are destroyed, leaving them in a very vulnerable, almost deadly condition. Traditionally, they receive transplant from a donor via bone marrow transplant or direct normal blood transfusion. These two sources of stem cells are fraught with pain and side-effects, and it is tricky to find a donor match.
On the other hand, stem cells from umbilical cord blood are very easy to collect and transplant, and it is not painful to administer. Moreover, it is not difficult to find a family member that can provide a match. And the greatest thing of all is that umbilical cord blood is almost always free of any contamination or infection.
Stem cell transplants can save lives of people with serious diseases, such as leukemia (cancer of the white blood cells) and other cancers, or those with serious blood disorders (aplastic anemia). Recently, it has been found that such cells taken from cord blood can also be used in the treatment of brain injury, cerebral palsy, type 1 diabetes, and heart disorders.
Because of its obvious importance, umbilical cord blood and its storage in an established cord blood bank upon the birth of a baby is becoming a hot issue. The good thing is that parents nowadays have this risk-free choice.
For more information regarding how storing cord blood can protect you and your child's future, check out umbilical cord blood.

Kayla Leeds is a veteran author who maintains a news website called Hot Daily Buzz (http://hotdailybuzz.com).

Coping With Leukemia Through Cord Blood Treatment

2010-08-16T07:40:00.000-07:00

Do you suffer leukemia? It will be your good news then. You can have a good and effective treatment through cord blood. This blood is considered as the strong source for stem cells. Stem cells are obtained from embryos. Yet, the treatment using this kind of cell is the right solution for some disorder such as leukemia.
Stem cells have the ability to replicate themselves to treat, repair, and also cure the damaged cells by some diseases including leukemia. Historically, the treatment by using this type of cell was formerly completed in 1988. Yet, the general public could access this procedure in 1995. Today, you are able to meet cold blood banking for storing the stem cells as well as cord blood.
Cord blood will be the right answer for some diseases. On June 2009, this blood was believed to be able to treat eighty diseases. It is a potential treatment for patients with leukemia, specifically for those who have no acceptable source for bone narrow transplant.
Then, how to use this cord blood as the treatment for leukemia? The process of the treatment begins when the blood is obtained from the giving birth mother. The patient is then given regular chemotherapy and followed by the high-dose chemotherapy. It is able to kill either normal or cancer-producing blood cells of the bone marrow. Since stem cell is able to kill the previous cells, it will replicate and replace for new cells.
Furthermore, the real transplantation happens when the patient is injected with the stem cells. They are able to take over the new white blood cells creation of around 10 up to 14 days so that the production of your blood will gradually return to normal. In addition, you can possibly need transfusions of some substances such as platelets and red blood cells since they are not able to reproduce on their own.
Cord blood can be easily collected right after the birth. In order to keep it sterilized, it is then cryogenically stored either in a public or private bank until it is needed for transplant. In addition, this blood can be stored for indefinite time until it is needed for the treatment.

Since stem cells are very beneficial for treating some disorder, cord blood collection will be very beneficial right after giving birth. Then, the cells can be stored at the cord blood banks for future need. You can find some more information about it on www.umbilicalcordstemcells.org.

Mesothelioma - How to Cope After Diagnosis

2010-08-06T07:39:00.000-07:00

If you know someone that has worked with asbestos in the past, then chances are that they have mesothelioma. It is important that you provide the right kind of support and ensure that the people diagnosed with this ailment are not left alone. There are a number of things that you can do in order to help the person who is suffering from this condition.
By showing that you care, you are ensuring that the person doesn't feel abandoned and has the hope and the will power to survive. This is important, no matter what the illness might be.
Getting the best medication
One of the most important things to make sure of in the people that have been diagnosed with this condition is that they are able to get the right kind of medical attention. In many cases, simply getting quality medical care goes a long way in ensuring that the patients don't have to suffer unnecessarily and are also able to cope with the pain in a much nicer way.
Although permanently getting rid of Mesothelioma is not possible, it is very much possible to reduce the pain caused by it. You will have to motivate the person and ensure that they do try out this treatment.
Getting legal help
Simple opting for medical attention is not enough. You need to ensure that the individuals suffering with Mesothelioma are not doing so in silence. With the right kind of legal recourse, it is possible that the individual can earn a substantial amount of money. With more money, it is possible to opt in for better healthcare and not simply struggle after being diagnose with this condition.
Many people lose hope because they run out of money before they get fully cured. This can be avoided if you file a strong lawsuit and win it with the help of a good lawyer.
Supporting as a group
As said previously, it is important to support the person that has been diagnosed with Mesothelioma in the form of a group. As long as the person knows that he can count on people around him, it is less likely that he is going to have to struggle in order to cope with the problems and also recovery soon after that.
Hence, having a good amount of support from near and dear ones is important. If you want a way in which you could be of help, it might probably be useful to help the individual try to find out a good lawyer and have this lawyer fight the case for you.
In a number of ways, having all the people support in an orderly manner and ensuring that the medical processes as well as the legal ones are going on as planned will help in successfully fighting mesothelioma.
Although medically, it is rather challenging to get a solution to curb the spread of this cancer, it is not necessarily hopeless. There are ways in which the cancer can be curbed and the person struggling with the disease can lead a somewhat normal life for a reasonable amount of time.

In order to get compensated from the people responsible for the onset of this cancer, it is necessary to get mesothelioma lawyers to help you out. Go to the website http://belluckfox.com/ to learn more

Herbal Remedies For Leukemia - How Can They Help?

2010-04-22T13:36:00.000-07:00

Leukemia is a blood disorder that affects a surprisingly large number of people. The death rate of this disease is alarming and it causes people to turn to other treatments that science can provide. Herbal remedies for leukemia has been given consideration as an alternative treatment.
What is leukemia?
Leukemia is another type of cancer that begins in the blood cells. For people suffering from leukemia, their bone marrows generate abnormal white blood cells. These are called the leukemia cells.
During the first stage of this disease, the leukemia cells may look like they are functioning normally. But after some time, they begin to out populate the normal white blood cells and also the red blood cells of our body. This is the reason why the blood cannot function correctly.
Cause of Leukemia
The exact cause of leukemia still remains a mystery. Experts cannot explain why this disease sprouts in random people. However, due to intensive studies, they have found some factors that may put you at risk of leukemia. Here are some of them:
1. Exposure to high level radiation
Those people who are regularly exposed to a high level of radiation have a high chance of developing leukemia.
2. Exposure to certain chemicals
Exposure to chemicals, such as Benzene can put you at a risk of developing leukemia. Another chemical that may cause considerable damage to your cells is formaldehyde.
3. Chemotherapy
This might seem crazy since chemotherapy is used to treat cancer patients. However, there are some studies conducted that people fighting from a different type of cancer can later develop leukemia because of their frequent chemotherapy sessions.
4. Down Syndrome
People with Down syndrome have a higher risk of developing leukemia because of their abnormal chromosomes.
Treatment
The first line of treatment that people with Leukemia would most likely utilize is chemotherapy. However, chemotherapy can also assault your immune system and can leave you defenseless against other viral infections and other complications.
Patients undergoing chemotherapy are all physically spent after every session. Chemotherapy also causes these patients to lose hair. This is why many have also turned to herbal remedies for leukemia.
These herbal remedies for leukemia have helped many a number of leukemia sufferers:
1. The nutrients found in garlic can protect our body from infections. Since chemotherapy can lower your immune system, Garlic can aid that problem.
2. You can also concoct an herbal tea out of stinging nettle, elder blossoms, brooklime herb and dandelion to help your body gain back its strength and normalize its primary functions.
It is also important for a leukemia sufferer to have a balanced diet and regular exercise to support their body in the fight against cancer cells.
Along with these, they can also take an herbal remedy that can help promote healthier cells. A product called Bio-Oxidate Defense can help a lot.
This product can support healthy cells in our body and can help the body fight the effects of bad cells. Bio-Oxidate Defense can also up your immune system so you will not be defenseless against other diseases.
This product is 100% safe to use because it uses natural herbal ingredients such as Green Tea, Rooibos and Grape seed extract which are a very helpful combination in supporting the body and help healthy cell growth.
When it comes to the battle against Leukemia, every help is needed. Herbal remedies for leukemia and a product like Bio-Oxidate Defense is just what you need to help you in this fight.

The Chronic and Acute Myelogenous Leukemia

2010-04-18T13:38:00.000-07:00

Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), as well called acute nonlymphocytic leukemia (ANLL), is a rapidly progressive neoplasm resulting from hematopoietic precursors, or myeloid stem tissue, that give rise to granulocytes, monocytes, erythrocytes, and platelets. There's growing evidence that genetic events occurring early in stem mobile maturation can lead to leukemia. Very first, there's a lag time of 5-10 years towards the development of leukemia after coverage to known causative agents such as chemotherapy, radiation, and particular solvents.
2nd, many instances of secondary leukemia evolve out of a prolonged "preleukemic phase" manifested like a myelodysplastic syndrome of hypoproduction with abnormal maturation without having precise malignant behavior. Finally, examination of precursor cells at a stage earlier than the malignant expanded clone in a provided kind of leukemia can reveal genetic abnormalities such as monosomy or trisomy of various chromosomes. In maintaining using the general molecular theme of neoplasia, extra genetic modifications are witnessed in the malignant clone compared with the morphologically normal stem cell that developmentally precedes it.
Acute myelocytic leukemias are classified by morphology and cytochemical staining. Auer rods are crystalline cytoplasmic inclusion bodies characteristic of, though not uniformly witnessed in, all myeloid leukemias. In contrast to mature myeloid tissue, leukemic cells have large immature nuclei with open chromatin and prominent nucleoli. The look from the individual kinds of AML mirrors the cell kind from which they derive. M1 leukemias originate from early myeloid precursors with no apparent maturation toward any terminal myeloid mobile type. This really is apparent within the lack of granules or other features that mark more mature myeloid cells. M3 leukemias are a neoplasm of promyelocytes, precursors of granulocytes, and M3 cells exhibit abundant azurophilic granules which are common of normal promyelocytes.
M4 leukemias arise from myeloid precursors that may differentiate into granulocytes or monocytes, whereas M5 leukemias derive from precursors currently committed towards the monocyte lineage. Therefore, M4 and M5 cells both include the feature folded nucleus and gray cytoplasm of monocytes, whereas M4 cells include also granules of the granulocytic cytochemical staining pattern. M6 and M7 leukemias can't be readily identified on morphologic grounds, but immunostaining for erythrocytic proteins is positive in M6 tissue, and staining for platelet glycoproteins is apparent in M7 tissue.
Chromosomal deletions, duplications, and well balanced translocations had been noted about the leukemic tissue of some patients prior to the introduction of molecular genetic techniques. Cloning from the regions exactly where well balanced translocations occur has, in some cases, revealed a preserved translocation website that reproducibly fuses a single gene with an additional, producing in the manufacturing of a brand new blend protein. M3 leukemias show a really higher frequency of the t(15;17) translocation that juxtaposes the PML gene with the RAR- gene. RAR- encodes a retinoic acid steroid hormone receptor, and PML encodes a transcription factor whose target genes are unknown. The blend protein possesses novel biologic action that presumably results in improved proliferation and a obstruct of differentiation.
Interestingly, retinoic acid can induce a short-term remission of M3 leukemia, supporting the importance of the RAR--PML blend protein. Monosomy of chromosome seven can be observed in leukemias arising out from the preleukemic syndrome of myelodysplasia or in de novo leukemias, and in both instances this finding is associated with a worse clinical prognosis. This monosomy as well as other serial cytogenetic modifications may also be seen right after relapse of treated leukemia, a scenario characterized by a a lot more aggressive program and resistance to therapy.
As hematopoietic neoplasms, acute leukemias involve the bone marrow and usually manifest abnormal circulating leukemic (blast) cells. Occasionally, extramedullary leukemic infiltrates recognized as chloromas can be observed in other organs and mucosal surfaces. A marked improve within the number of circulating blasts can sometimes trigger vascular obstruction associated with hemorrhage and infarction within the cerebral and pulmonary vascular beds. This leukostasis results in symptoms such as strokes, retinal vein occlusion, and pulmonary infarction.
In most instances of AML along with other leukemias, peripheral blood counts of mature granulocytes, erythrocytes, and platelets are decreased. This is probably because of crowding from the bone marrow by blast tissue as nicely as the elaboration of inhibitory substances by leukemic cells or alteration of the bone marrow stromal microenvironment and cytokine milieu required for normal hematopoiesis. Susceptibility to infections consequently of depressed granulocyte amount and function and abnormal bleeding as a result of reduced platelet counts are common problems in sufferers initially presenting with leukemia.
Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) is an indolent leukemia manifested by an increased quantity of immature granulocytes in the marrow and peripheral circulation. One of the hallmarks of CML may be the Philadelphia chromosome, a cytogenetic function that is due to balanced translocation of chromosomes 9 and 22, producing in a fusion gene, bcr-abl, that encodes a kinase that phosphorylates a number of key proteins included in cell development and apoptosis. The fusion gene can recreate a CML-like syndrome when released into mice.
CML eventually transforms into acute leukemia (blast crisis), which is associated with further cytogenetic changes and a clinical course similar to that of acute leukemia. New courses of medicines that block the bcr-abl kinase by competing with the ATP-binding site, induce remissions in most patients in chronic phases of CML. Moreover, resistance to these bcr-abl inhibitors can include amplification from the bcr-abl breakpoint as nicely as the development (or clonal expansion) of mutations in the ATP-binding pocket of bcr-abl, which no longer allows binding of inhibitors.

Vitamin D - A New Protective Mechanism Against Colon Cancer

2010-04-18T13:35:00.000-07:00

According to Ministry of Health and Consumption, colon cancer is the deadliest malignancy in Spain, causing over 25,000 deaths annually. Although progress is made continually in research and treatment, survival of patients with colorectal cancer are diagnosed in advanced stage of the disease has not improved significantly since many years. While it is accepted that the most effective against cancer in general and in particular colorectal cancer is prevention, campaigns in this regard have failed so far the desired results.
Vitamin D has been traditionally associated with the regulation of bone biology and the prevention of rickets. However, numerous recent studies support a protective effect of vitamin D against various cancers, particularly colon and prostate, breast and others. As Bert Vogelstein, a professor at the Faculty of Medicine, Johns Hopkins researcher Universitad the Howard Hughes Medical Institute of Maryland (USA) and Prince of Asturias Prize said: "Studies on the relationship between vitamin D3 (active of vitamin D found in the body), bile acids and colorectal cancer have significant implications for the prevention of colorectal cancer in the future "
Most epidemiological studies suggest that reduced concentrations of vitamin D in blood is associated with an increased risk for colorectal cancer, whereas those with concentrations in the highest rank have lower risk. These results have motivated a great interest in studying the action of vitamin D as a preventive agent against colorectal cancers.
The team of Prof. Alberto Munoz at the Institute for Biomedical Research "Alberto Sols" located on the campus of the Faculty of Medicine of the Universidad Autonoma de Madrid, joint center of this University and the National Research Council investigates the action of calcitriol (vitamin D3) in human cells of colon cancer. In collaboration with the group led by Dr. Felix Bonilla at the Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro move to human samples, taken from tumors taken from cancer patients, noting the current ethics rules, results in vitro in cell cultures and in experimental animals in order to elucidate the mechanisms and possibilities for use of calcitriol and vitamin D in preventing and perhaps treating this malignancy.
Today it is accepted that one of the initial and fundamental alterations in the vast majority of colorectal cancers is abnormal activation of a molecular signaling pathway called Wnt / beta-catenin. This occurs because the mutation of one of three genes: APC, or Axin CTTNB1/beta-catenina. The latest finding made by the group led by Alberto Muñoz published in the journal Carcinogenesis shows that calcitriol increases the expression of a gene called Dickkopf-1 (DKK-1). This gene is a natural inhibitor of the Wnt pathway / beta-catenin, and since this acts as an engine that initiates and promotes tumor progression, induction of DKK-1 may be relevant to its antitumor action. The authors have also shown a relationship between the expression of DKK-1 receptor and vitamin D in human colorectal tumors, and further, that DKK-1 has tumor suppressor activities in addition to inhibition via Wnt / beta-catenin.
These findings help explain the molecular mechanisms of action of vitamin D, and support its role in the prevention of human colon cancer and therefore the importance of maintaining adequate levels of vitamin multifunctional body.

Colonoscopy - What to Expect and How to Prepare For It

2010-04-12T13:34:00.000-07:00

What is Colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy is the internal examination of the colon and rectum by a colonoscope (a long, flexible tube about half an inch in diameter with a camera attached to the end), to evaluate symptoms of the colon (eg. Rectal bleeding, change in bowel habits and persistent abdominal pain), or to screen asymptomatic individuals who are at risk of colon cancer.
It can detect ulcers, inflammed tissue and abnormal growths in the walls of the colon.
Preparing for a Colonoscopy
For successful visualization of the colon and rectum, the bowel must be clean and free of accumulated faeces. It is thus very important that you follow the instructions for preparing your bowel, given by your doctor. Without proper preparation, the colonoscopy may not be successful and may have to be repeated.
The Colonoscopy
You will be given a pain reliever and some sedation, so that you will be relaxed and comfortable. You may be asleep during the colonoscopy or be unable to remember it following the procedure. You will be made to lie on your side with your knees drawn up towards your chest, and your doctor will pass the well lubricated colonoscope into your anus, gently guiding it through the rectum and into the colon. Small amounts of air will be pumped in to expand the colon for proper visualization of the colon walls.
Your doctor can remove growths, called polyps during the colonoscopy, and later send it to the laboratory to test for signs of cancer. Polyps are common and usually benign, however, most colorectal cancers begin as polyps, so they should always be tested.
Biopsies can also be taken from abnormal looking tissues in the walls of the colon. If bleeding occurs following biopsy or removal of polyps, it can be stopped via diathermy (an electrical probe) passed through the colonscope.
The entire procedure lasts about 30 minutes to an hour.
Following The Colonoscopy
You may be required to remain at the clinic for 1 to 2 hours after the procedure to allow time for the sedative to wear off. Cramping, bloating and passing of flatus (gas) is common following a colonoscope due to the air pumped in during the procedure.
You should contact your doctor if you have any of the following rare side effects:

Fever
Severe abdominal pain
Blood in your stools

Dr Ang C.D. is has been in medical practice for over 12 years. He graduated with an M.B.B.S. degree from the National University of Singapore in 1997 and subsequently completed his post-graduate diploma in Family Medicine.
He has had training in Emergency Medicine, Internal Medicine, Geriatric Medicine, Orthopaedic Surgery, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Neurosurgery, General Surgery, Colorectal Surgery and Urology.
Dr Ang currently practices in a family clinic in Singapore, seeing a good mix of paediatric, adult and geriatric patients.
With the goal of providing local and international patients with a resource for specialist care in Singapore, Dr Ang has founded SingaporeDoc.com, a Web Directory of Specialists in Private Practice in Singapore.

Microscopes and Hodgkin's Lymphoma - Understanding the Pathophysiology of a Common Cancer

2010-04-09T13:37:00.000-07:00

First off What is Lymphoma?
We have to first define what lymphoma is before discussing Hodgkin's disease. Lymphoma is a cancer that develops from cells in the body known as "lymphocytes." Lympocytes are a subcategory of white blood cells. There are two different types of lymphocytes: B-cells and T-cells. Almost all lymphomas, including Hodgkin's disease, stem from B-cells.
In Hodgkin's lymphoma a B-cell, for unknown reasons, becomes cancerous. The cell then makes many many clones of itself. These cells bundle together to form a solid tumor known as a lymphoma. There are several hypotheses for why these cells become cancerous in Hodgkin's. One belief is that infection with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV, the same virus that causes infectious mononucleosis) can cause the cells to turn malignant in genetically susceptible people. Other theories are that certain genetic translocations may be the underlying factor. As of yet, no particular theory has significant supporting data to call it the "cause." In fact, there may be multiple unrelated causes.
Types
There are different subcategories of Hodgkin's lymphoma. They are based on several microscopic characteristics, and are important in determining prognosis. The features the pathologist is looking for are the number of Reed-Sternberg cells, as well as the number of lymphocytes present in the biospy specimen. A Reed-Sternberg cell is a funny shaped cell with two nuclei that looks like owl's eyes.
The first subcategory, and most common type, is nodular sclerosing Hodgkin's lymphoma. In this type there are very few Reed-Sternberg cells with a moderate number of lymphocytes. It commonly occurs in younger individuals, and with treatment, the prognosis is excellent.
The second subcategory is mixed cellularity Hodgkin's lymphoma. This type has many Reed-Sternberg cells and a moderate number of lymphocytes when viewed under the microscope. It has an intermediate prognosis.
The third subcategory is lymphocyte predominant Hodgkin's. It has very few Reed-Sternberg cells and many lymphocytes. It occurs most commonly in males less than 35 years of age. It is also one of the few types that is not associated with Epstein-Barr virus infection.
The last subcategory is lymphocyte depleted. It is the rarest form of Hodgkin's lymphoma. It typically affects older males. Unfortunately it has the worst prognosis of the four types.

Colon Cancer Prevention - What You Need to Know

2010-04-09T13:33:00.000-07:00

More than 100,000 Americans are diagnosed with colon cancer every year. According to the American Cancer Society most colon cancers occur in folks over the age of 35.
The good news is this cancer is very easy to prevent. Just remember if you experience any blood in your stools or any unusual changes in your bowel habits for more than a few weeks you should get it checked out. In addition, if you experience symptoms like unusual weight loss, fatigue, nausea, anemia or jaundice for more than a few days you need to see a doctor right away.
The simple fact is the key to beating colon cancer is early detection. Current colon cancer treatments are over 85% successful when diagnosed early. So this is important.
But I'm sure you'd agree, the best thing to do is prevent getting it all together. To do this all you'll need to do is make a few lifestyle and dietary changes.
* Eat a high fiber diet to keep your colon healthy and free of carcinogens. Think beans, whole grains, fruits and veggies.
* Drink more water. You know you're getting enough if you need to urinate about 5 times a day.
* Ease up on the alcohol. Studies show the more you drink, the more likely it is you'll get colon cancer.
* Avoid too much red meat. Limit your intake of beef, pork and lamb to once or twice a week.
* Make sure you're getting enough calcium and magnesium. These minerals help protect the colon from carcinogens. The best thing to do here is take a good high-quality supplement.
Also, it's good idea to do a colon cleanse a few times a year. This removes toxins and rejuvenates your colon. In addition it helps your body absorb nutrients more efficiently. To make this easier consider getting a high-quality colon cleansing product that contains bentonite clay.
The take-away here is to remember that a healthy person will not suffer from constipation and will have at least one bowel movement every day. Just following the simple guidelines listed here is not too difficult, will increase your energy, and most importantly, prevent colon cancer.

How to Start a Colon Cancer Diet

2010-04-06T13:32:00.000-07:00

When we reach the age of 50, one out of four individuals that we know or might be acquainted with will develop colorectal cancer. This figure is high enough to get us alarmed to prepare for our uncertain future. No one would like to suffer such an unbearable disease when we reach our golden years, where possibly, eating can be the only one of our lives' greatest highlights.
A proper diet has always been a man's greatest preventative measure against developing serious or fatal diseases. Coupled with our knowledge of the benefits of a healthy diet and proper nutrition, how are we to start a colon cancer diet? Can this diet actually guarantee a life free from colorectal cancer? We will find out! Before we start, we have to understand that dieting has always been a misnomer for the diets that Hollywood actresses practice in order for them to look extremely bony or extremely sexy thin. We have to take note that dieting is comprised of a balance between the major food groups (go, grow, glow) to attain good health.
To begin starting and formulating our own diet, we must know the food that we are supposed to eat that shall aid our efforts in preventing colorectal cancer.
• It remains true that a high-fiber diet helps in colon cleansing, hence decreasing one's risk of developing colon polyps that may result in colorectal cancer in a matter of 10 years. This is the main reason why high-fiber diets will indirectly help us prevent the development colon cancer. Foods that have helpful high-fibers are fruits and vegetables, barley, bran, brown rice, whole-grain bread and whole-wheat pasta.
• Food high in folic acid will aid in reducing the risk of developing colon cancer as well as breast cancer. This finding was supported by the fact that incidents are associated with the polymorphism of a gene for methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase, an enzyme involved in folic acid metabolism. The kinds of food that are high in folic acid include spinach, asparagus, broccoli and beets among many.
• Low-fat food should be taken more than red meats or charred meat since it increases the risk to colorectal cancer. These low-fat foods include fish such as tuna, lobster and other crustaceans, skimmed milk, cornflakes etc.
• Vitamin D and Calcium has also been found to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer by reducing the formation of colorectal adenoma polyps. Vitamin D can be supplemented by taking vitamins while calcium can be found in dairy.
So as we start on our colon cancer diet, will we be assured that this diet can prevent colon cancer development? The answer still is, "No". Even if a person followed a strict regimen to prevent colon cancer, he may not be guaranteed that colon cancer development will cease to exist. This is due to the fact that diet is just one of many risk factors in the development of colon cancer. Other factors include heredity, age, environment, behavior, and pre-existing conditions such as Diabetes.
But in the end, we have to put this colon cancer diet in good light. Mainly because dieting and eating healthy can provide you a generally healthy body and the benefits of a colon cancer diet still outweighs the weak effect it produces as preventive measure against colorectal cancer. So, let's start our colon cancer diet now.

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia in Children

2010-04-05T13:39:00.000-07:00

This information is about acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in children. It is helpful to read general information on children's cancer, which contains more information about cancers in children, their diagnosis and treatment and the support services available.
* Leukaemia
* ALL
* Causes of ALL
* Signs and symptoms
* How it is diagnosed
* Treatment
* Side effects of treatment
* Clinical trials
* Follow-up
* Your feelings
* References
Leukaemia
One third of all childhood cancers are leukaemia, with approximately 400 new cases occurring each year in the UK. Approximately three quarters (75%) of these are acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. ALL can affect children at any age but is more common between the ages of 1 and 4. ALL is more common in boys than girls.
ALL
Leukaemia is a cancer of the white blood cells. All blood cells are produced in the bone marrow. Bone marrow is the spongy substance at the core of some of the bones in the body. Bone marrow contains:
* red blood cells that carry oxygen around the body
* white blood cells that help fight infection
* platelets that help the blood to clot and control bleeding.
There are two different types of white cell: lymphocytes or myeloid cells. These white blood cells work together to fight infection. Normally white blood cells repair and reproduce themselves in an orderly and controlled way. In leukaemia, however, the process gets out of control and the cells continue to divide, but do not mature.
These immature dividing cells fill up the bone marrow and stop it from making healthy blood cells. As the leukaemic cells are not mature, they cannot work properly. This leads to an increased risk of infection. Because the bone marrow cannot make enough healthy red blood cells and platelets, symptoms such as anaemia and bruising can occur.
There are four main types of leukaemia: acute lymphoblastic (ALL), acute myeloid (AML), chronic lymphocytic (CLL) and chronic myeloid (CML). Chronic leukaemias usually affect adults and are extremely rare in children and young people. Each type of leukaemia has its own characteristics and treatment. Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia is a cancer of immature lymphocytes, called lymphoblasts or blast cells.
There are two different types of lymphocytes: T-cells and B-cells. Often the leukaemia occurs at a very early stage in the immature lymphocytes, before they have developed as far as becoming either T-cells or B-cells. However, if the cells have developed this far before becoming leukaemic, the type of leukaemia may be known as T-cell or B-cell leukaemia.
Causes of ALL
The exact cause of ALL is unknown. Research is going on all the time into possible causes of this disease. Children with certain genetic disorders, such as Down's syndrome, are known to have a higher risk of developing leukaemia. Brothers and sisters of a child with ALL have a slightly increased risk of developing ALL themselves, although this risk is still small.
In recent years there has been publicity about leukaemia occurring more often in children living close to nuclear power plants or high-voltage power lines. Research is still under way to see if there is any definite link between these factors but as yet there is no evidence of this. ALL, like other types of cancer, is not infectious and cannot be passed on to other people.
Signs and symptoms
As the leukaemia cells multiply in the bone marrow, the production of normal blood cells is reduced. Children may therefore become tired and lethargic due to anaemia, which is caused by a lack of red blood cells. They may develop bruises, and bleeding may take longer to stop due to low numbers of platelets. Sometimes children may suffer from infections because of low numbers of normal white blood cells.
A child is likely to feel generally unwell and may complain of aches and pains in the limbs, or may have swollen lymph glands. At first the symptoms are just like those of a viral infection, but when they continue for more than a week or two the diagnosis usually becomes clear.
How it is diagnosed
A blood test usually shows low numbers of normal white blood cells and the presence of the abnormal leukaemic cells. A sample of bone marrow is needed to confirm the diagnosis. A lumbar puncture is done to see if the spinal fluid contains any leukaemia cells. A chest x-ray is also done, which will show if there are any enlarged glands in the chest. Other tests may be necessary, depending on the child's symptoms.
These tests will help to identify the precise type of leukaemia involved.
Treatment
The aim of treatment for ALL is to destroy the leukaemia cells and allow the bone marrow to work normally again. Chemotherapy is the main treatment for ALL. Usually a combination of chemotherapy drugs are given according to a treatment plan (often called a protocol or regimen). The treatment is given in several phases, or 'blocks', which are outlined below.
Induction This phase involves intensive treatment aimed at destroying as many leukaemia cells as possible. The induction phase lasts for 4-6 weeks. A bone-marrow test is taken at the end of induction treatment to check if the child is in remission. Remission is where there is no evidence of leukaemia.
Consolidation and central nervous system (CNS) treatment The next phase of treatment is aimed at maintaining the remission and also at preventing the spread of leukaemia cells into the brain and spinal cord (the central nervous system). CNS treatment involves injecting a drug, usually methotrexate, directly into the spinal fluid (intrathecally) during a lumbar puncture. Occasionally radiotherapy to the brain is also necessary.
Further doses of chemotherapy treatment (somtimes called 'intensification blocks') are given in order to kill off any remaining leukaemia cells. Between 2 and 4 blocks of treatment may be needed, depending on your child's particular treatment plan.
Maintenance treatment This phase of treatment lasts for up to 2 years for girls and up to 3 years for boys, from diagnosis. It involves daily tablets and monthly injections of chemotherapy.
Children will be able to take part in their normal daily activities as soon as they feel able to. Some children return to school before maintenance treatment.
Bone-marrow transplantation Bone-marrow transplantation is only used for children with ALL that is likely to come back following standard chemotherapy, or for children whose leukaemia has come back (recurred) following standard treatment.
Testicular radiotherapy In some situations it may be necessary for boys to have radiotherapy to their testicles. This is because leukaemia cells can survive in the testicles despite chemotherapy.
Side effects of treatment
Many cancer treatments will cause side effects. This is because while the treatments are killing the cancer cells they can also damage some normal cells. Some of the main side effects are:
* hair loss
* reduction in the number of blood cells produced by the bone marrow, which can cause anemia, an increased risk of bruising, bleeding and infection
* loss of appetite and weight
* nausea (feeling sick) and vomiting
Most side effects are temporary and there are ways of reducing them and supporting your child through them. Your child's doctor or nurse will talk to you about any possible side effects.
Late side effects
A small number of children may develop late side effects, sometimes many years later. These include possible problems with puberty and fertility, a change in the way the heart works and a small increase in the risk of developing another cancer in later life. Your child's doctor or nurse will explain about any possible late side effects.
Clinical trials
Many children have their treatment as part of a clinical research trial. Trials aim to improve our understanding of the best way to treat an illness (usually by comparing the standard treatment with a new or modified version of the standard treatment). Specialist doctors carry out trials for ALL. Your child's medical team will talk to you about taking part in a clinical trial (if appropriate) and will answer any questions you may have. Written information is often provided to help explain things. Taking part in a research trial is completely voluntary and you'll be given plenty of time to decide if it is right for your child. At present the main trial for ALL is called 'UKALL 2003'.
Most children with ALL are cured. If the leukaemia comes back, it normally does so within the first three years after stopping treatment. Further treatment can then be given. Long-term side effects are uncommon and most children with ALL grow and develop normally.
If you have specific concerns about your child's condition and treatment, it is best to discuss them with your child's doctor, who knows the situation in detail.
Your feelings
As a parent, the fact that your child has cancer is one of the worst situations to face. You may have many different emotions, such as fear, guilt, sadness, anger and uncertainty. These are all normal reactions and are part of the process that many parents go through at such a difficult time. There is not enough space here to address all of the feelings you may have. However, general information on children's cancer talks about the emotional impact of caring for a child with cancer and suggests sources of help and support.

The Colon Cancer

2010-04-02T13:31:00.000-07:00

The design of stepwise genetic modifiation in cancer is best highlighted by observations made in colonic lesions representing various phases of development to malignancy. Particular anatomical alterations are discovered commonly in early-stage adenomas, whereas others have a tendency to occur with substantial frequency only after the development of wide spread neoplasia. These modifications are in maintaining with the idea that serial phenotypic modifications must happen in the mobile for it to exhibit full malignant (wide spread and metastatic) properties. Two principal lines of proof assistance the model of stepwise genetic modifiation in intestinal tract cancer.
1. The uncommon familial syndromes associated with predisposition to colon most cancers at an early age are now recognized to result from germline mutations. Familial adenomatous polyposis is the end result of a mutation within the APC gene, which encodes a cell adhesion protein which has also been implicated within the control of -catenin, a potent transcriptional activator. Within the tumors that subsequently produce, the remaining allele have been lost. Similarly, hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal most cancers is linked with germline mutations in DNA repair genes such as hMSH2 and hMLH1. These genes can also be affected in sporadic cancers.
2. The carcinogenic effects of factors known to be linked to an elevated risk of colon most cancers constitute the second line of evidence for the anatomical basis for colon most cancers. Substances derived from bacterial colonic flora, ingested meals, or endogenous metabolites such as fecapentaenes, 3-ketosteroids, and benzo[]pyrenes are mutagenic. Amounts of those ingredients can be reduced by low-fat and high-fiber diets, and several epidemiologic studies confirm that this kind of diets decrease the risk of intestinal tract cancer. Furthermore, because the chance of sporadic intestinal tract cancer in older individuals is mildly elevated in the presence of a good family background, there might be other inherited anatomical abnormalities that interact with environmental elements to trigger colon most cancers.
The sequence of genetic changes might not require to become exact to result in the improvement of an wide spread cancer, although there is mounting evidence that some genetic lesions tend to produce earlier, whereas other people may develop late in the course of the natural disease. All phenotypic changes can't be explained by a known anatomical abnormality, nor do all identified anatomical modifiation have a known phenotypic result. Nevertheless, the stepwise dynamics of genotypic and phenotypic irregularities is well set up.
The earliest molecular defect within the pathogenesis of intestinal tract cancer is the acquisition of somatic mutations in the APC gene within the normal colonic mucosa. This defect brings about abnormal regulation of -catenin, which leads to abnormal cell proliferation and the initial actions in tumor formation. Subsequent defects in the TGF- signaling pathway inactivate this important growth inhibitory pathway and lead to more tumor mucosal proliferation and the introduction of little adenomas. Mutational activation of the K-ras gene leads to constitutive activation of the essential proliferative signaling pathway, is common at these stages, and further boosts the proliferative potential of the adenomatous tumor cells. Deletion or reduction of expression from the DCC gene is common in the progression to wide spread intestinal tract cancers.
The DCC protein is a transmembrane protein from the immunoglobulin superfamily and might be a receptor for certain extracellular molecules that guide mobile development and or apoptosis. Mutational inactivation of p53 can also be a frequently observed step in the development of wide spread intestinal tract cancer, observed in late adenomas and earlier wide spread cancers, and prospects to loss of an essential mobile cycle checkpoint and inability to activate the p53-dependent apoptotic pathways. Identification of genetic irregularities within the development of colon cancer to metastatic disease is presently under investigation.
In parallel to these sequential irregularities in the regulation of mobile proliferation, colon cancers also acquire defects in mechanisms that guard genomic stability. These generally include mutations in mismatch restore genes or genes that prevent chromosomal instability. Mismatch restore genes are a family of genes which are involved in proofreading DNA throughout replication and consist of MSH2,MLH1,PMS1, and PMS2. Germline mutations in these genes cause the hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) syndrome. Nonhereditary colon cancers develop genomic instability via defects within the chromosomal instability (CIN) genes. Defects in these genes result in the gain or reduction of large segments or whole chromosomes throughout replication primary to aneuploidy.
The stepwise acquisition of genetic irregularities described previously is associated with modifiation in the phenotypic behavior of the colonic mucosa. The earliest change in the development to colon most cancers may be the improve in cell number (hyperplasia) on the epithelial (luminal) surface. This creates an adenoma, which can be characterized by gland-forming cells exhibiting increases in sizing and cell number but no invasion of surrounding structures. Presumably, these changes are due to improved proliferation and loss of mobile cycle manage but prior to acquisition of the capacity to invade ECM. Additional dysplastic modifications such as reduction of mucin production and altered mobile polarity may be present to some variable degree.
Some adenomas may improvement to carcinoma in situ and ultimately to invasive carcinoma. An early function linked with disrupted architecture even prior to invasion occurs is the development of fragile new vessels or destruction of existing vessels that may trigger microscopic bleeding. This could be examined for clinically like a fecal occult blood determination employed for screening and earlier diagnosis of preinvasive and invasive intestinal tract cancer. It isn't known regardless of whether all wide spread colon cancers pass via a hyperplastic or preinvasive stage, and there is no information available for epithelial malignancies generally.
Additional functional modifications in the cell and surrounding tissue are also manifested in the preinvasive and wide spread stages. Once the basement membrane is penetrated by invasive malignant tissue, entry could be gained towards the regional lymphatics, and spread to regional pericolic lymph nodes can occur. Entry of cells into the bloodstream can result in distant distribute in the pattern that reflects venous drainage. Consequently, hematogenous spread from primary colon tumors towards the liver is common, whereas rectal tumors usually disseminate to liver, lung, and bone. Additionally to anatomic considerations, there may exist specific tropism of malignant cells mediated by surface proteins that cause the cells to preferentially home in on certain organs or sites.
Colonic epithelium is specialized to secrete mucus proteins and to get water and electrolytes. The upkeep of a tight luminal barrier, intracellular charge distinctions, and the capability to exclude toxins are additional specialized features. Some of these features are maintained within the progression to neoplasia and may lead to some specific phenotype of the malignant cell. One instance is the expression of a transporter membrane protein, MDR-1, present on a number of types of epithelium, such as the colon.
MDR-1 is recognized to trigger efflux of several compounds out from the tissue, presumably like a protective system to exclude poisons. In sophisticated colon cancer, this protein might lead to the relative resistance of this along with other tumor types to some variety of chemotherapeutic agents which are transported by MDR-1. In some instances, the activation of a latent gene encoding carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) can result in measurable levels from the CEA protein in the serum of sufferers with localized or metastatic colon cancer as well as other adenocarcinomas.

How Do You Know the Symptom Are Related to Leukemia?

2010-03-25T13:35:00.000-07:00

Symptom
Bone and Joint Pain - Pain in bones and joints is another common symptom of leukemia. This could be a symptom of leukemia-related spleen and liver enlargement. Anemia is another symptom of leukemia in toddlers. Another symptom of leukemia is bruising and bleeding easily. Those with bleeding gums should see their pediatrician urgently, as this is also a symptom of leukemia in some children.
When red blood cells are unable to be produced because of the crowding in the marrow, anemia is present. Symptomatic facial nerve involvement, on the other hand, is extremely unusual. Symptoms you have experienced from Leukemia which of these symptoms have you experienced. Symptom of Leukemia causing most discomfort which of these symptoms caused you the most discomfort. Depending on the number of abnormal cells and where these cells collect, patients with leukemia may have a number of symptoms, including anemia. Children with leukemia often have fewer than normal healthy red blood cells and platelets. They often have symptoms of infection such as fever, runny nose and cough. Bone and Joint Pain - Pain in bones and joints is another common symptom of leukemia.
Treatment
Specific treatment for leukemia will be determined by your child's physician based on your child's age, overall health, and medical history the extent of the disease your child's tolerance for certain medications, procedures, or therapies expectations for the course of the disease your opinion or preference treatment usually begins by addressing the presenting symptoms such as anemia, bleeding, and or infection. In addition, treatment for leukemia may include (alone or in combination) the following chemotherapyintrathecal medications/chemotherapy (medications are inserted through a needle into the spinal cord into the area called the subarachnoid space)radiation therapy bone marrow transplantation or peripheral blood stem cell transplantationbiological therapymedications (to prevent or treat damage to other systems of the body caused by leukemia treatment) medications (for nausea and side effects of treatment)blood transfusions (red blood cells, platelets)antibiotics (to prevent/treat infections)continuous follow-up care (to determine response to treatment, detect recurrent disease, and manage late effects of treatment)What are the various stages of leukemia treatment.
Remission is the goal in this stage of treatment. Regular visits to your child's physician are required in order to determine response to treatment, detect any recurrent disease, and manage any side effects of the treatment. Relapse can occur during any of the stages of treatment, or may occur months or years after treatment has ended. New methods are continually being discovered to improve treatment and to decrease side effects of the treatment for the disease. With early treatment, chances for full recovery are often quite good. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Today leukemia patients had less change of dying from the disease as scientist are studying its causes and treatment to find leukemia patients can look forward to live a better quality of life. The usual treatment of leukemia is divided into two categories: treatments that are aimed at fighting the cancer and treatments that are aimed at relieving the symptoms and the side effects of the disease.

Chemotherapy For Colorectal Cancer

2010-03-05T13:30:00.000-08:00

Colorectal cancer is the second type of cancer associated cause of death in America. This disease is also referred as bowel cancer or colon cancer.
Cure for the cancer varies according to each severity case. Doctors usually use a combination of therapies that can include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation to successfully treat each specific case of colorectal cancer.
It surely means patient suffering from cancer of the large intestine when diagnosed with colorectal cancer. The cells of a colon or rectal polyp can eventually become abnormal, which could begin to damage healthy tissue of their colon and rectum resulting in a malignant tumor.
Doctor usually utilizes chemotherapy as additional supportive treatment to slow tumor growth, reduce tumor size and reduce the development of metastasis along with surgery. It can be recommended before or after surgery.
This cure involves the use of anticancer drugs to kill and eliminate abnormal cells. These drugs enter the bloodstream in order to eradicate cancer cells throughout the entire body.
But, this treatment is not the first option for treatment of colorectal cancer, especially in earlier stages. Another medical cure like a colonoscopy or a colectomy is more performed to either extract the malignancy itself or remove the diseased section of the large intestines.
Types of chemotherapy drugs for colorectal cancer are varies depending on the patient case, also the chemotherapy side effects. There are basic anticancer drugs that are regularly used with this form of the disease regardless of how chemotherapy is used.
Drugs like Fluorouracil are probably the most common, but you may also be given additional drugs like capecitabine, oxaliplatin, irinotecan, leucovorin in variety dosage. The drug can be a combination of two to three of the five which are given intravenously over a course of weeks to months.

Leukemia - What You Should Know About It

2010-02-28T01:57:00.000-08:00

There are many different types of leukemia, but all are a malignant disease of the white blood cells of the body. The cause of all types is still uncertain. Each type is determined by the specific blood cell involved and the length of time the illness lasts. Leukemia exists in both an acute ad chronic form: it is detected when the blood is examined.

When the cell group known as the lymphocytes is affected, the disease is called lymphocytic leukemia. When the monocytes are involved, it is known as monocytic leukemia. And when the polymorphonuclear cells are involved, it is called myeloid leukemia.

The myeloid form attacks a younger age group than the lymphocytic. These two types are the ones seen most commonly, but almost all of what is noted here applies to leukemia in general.

Leukemia is more common in males than in females. The outcome of the disease depends upon the type, and whether it is in the acute or chronic form.

Symptoms. In acute cases, the onset is usually quite rapid and resembles an acute infectious disease. The earliest symptoms may be high fever, diffuse aches and pains, and severe weakness. Painful ulcerations of the mouth are not uncommon. There may be bone pain.

The course is unusually rapid, progressive, and downhill. There are hemorrhages of the mucous membranes of the mouth and into the skin. In the chronic case the disease develops stealthily and is discovered often during the course of a routine medical examination. The patient loses weight, appetite, and strength. He has night sweats and feels weak.

In the lymphatic form there is almost always swelling of the lymph glands. Sometimes the patient complains of pain in the abdomen in the area where the spleen lies. This is because that organ enlarges as the disease progresses. There is evidence of hemorrhaging - the patient bleeds from the mouth and develops blood spots under the skin. Weakness becomes more severe and the patient develops anemia.

Complications. Because of the diminished resistance of the patient, he is subject to complications from secondary infections. Another serious problem is hemorrhage, frequently into the intestinal tract. Or it may involve any organ system.

Prevention. There is no way to prevent the onset of leukemia. There are many courses of treatment available which can prolong the life of the patient and even permit him to carry on his normal activity. Care must be taken to avoid secondary infection. There is no known cure, but with new research the outlook for patients with this illness continues to improve.

Cure For Leukemia From Nature

2010-02-25T01:56:00.000-08:00

Many people are now looking for natural cures to things such as leukemia. This is becoming more and more common among those that are suffering from this disease. There are many different reasons that people have for looking for natural cures for their illnesses. Some of them are because the patient may not like the chemical treatment that the doctor is offering. There can be severe and dangerous side effects and the patient may not find it worth the risk. If this is the case then they may turn to natural treatments to help them with their battle. You should certainly have hope because there are options for those seeking a cure for leukemia from nature out there.

Medical Treatment for Leukemia

The main medical treatment for leukemia is chemotherapy. The effects of chemotherapy may be detrimental to the patient in many ways. The patient may get fatigue and feel like they don't want to get out of bed. This can lead to depression and depression is far from good when you are trying to get your body to heal. Chemotherapy can also cause nausea or vomiting this is a side effect that many people simply do not like. It can make you feel very ill and that is not always good for getting your body to want to heal either.

Another common side effect from chemotherapy treatment is that you will often times lose your hair. This is undesirable and may be something that many are not willing to deal with. With chemotherapy you may find that you lose all of you hair and then are in need of a wig just to hide the fact that your hair is missing. You may also lose a good bit of weight as well. This could mainly be the cause of the nausea and vomiting enabling you from being able to eat or even keep down any amount of food.

Natures cure for leukemia

One of the most common known cures for leukemia is vitamin A. It is said that vitamin A has had great cure rates since the studies that have been done on it. In the studies vitamin A was injected directly into the fat of the person with leukemia. This deposit of vitamin A was said to be deposited into a "fat bubble" or into "bubbles of fat" to increase or enhance bio-availability.

There were 34 patients that were in the study and all they received was the vitamin A. Out of these 34 patients that received the vitamin A, 10 of these patients where still cancer free after five years even though none of these patients received the chemotherapy treatments. This was said to be astonishing by those who preformed the study.

These patients received only vitamin A for the natural treatment they did not receive any of the other natural remedies that are proven to help with leukemia as well. There are many other herbs and vitamins that if taken in conjunction with the vitamin A are thought to increase the success rate of the vitamin A treatment.

There are other supplements that you may want to take with this cure for leukemia remedy to improve the chances of being cured even more.

The Connection Between Colorectal Cancer and Asbestos

2010-02-22T01:52:00.000-08:00

Cancers that affect the digestive system can be especially difficult to manage because they can interfere with your ability to process your food and absorb the nutrients that you would need to help fight the disorder. One such gastrointestinal cancer is colorectal, which can actually be divided into colon and rectal cancers. Currently, doctors and researchers are trying to comprehend the link between colorectal cancer and asbestos exposure.

The colon is the longest part of the large intestine, whose purpose is to absorb any nutrients that were not taken in by the small intestine. Additionally, the colon absorbs water from your food to help you stay hydrated. Colon cancer often begins in the cells lining the colon which make mucus and other fluids to help lubricate the passage of your food. Thus, when these cells become cancerous, they can form blocks in your intestinal system.

The rectum is the last several inches of the large intestine, right before the anus. This is where your body stores fecal matter before you release it. Additionally, the rectum packs the waste into a more solid form so that you can release your stool.

Although you may think of asbestos exposure as primarily causing lung cancer and mesothelioma, it can also affect these lower parts of your digestive system. The problem with asbestos is that once it is inhaled or ingested via air or water, it can permanently remain in your body. This is because your body is not able to process the carcinogenic fibers. As they pass through your system, they can become lodged in the tissue of the colon and rectum, causing the growth of cancer.

Doctors are now discovering that colorectal cancer is more prevalent in men who were exposed to asbestos, especially through the work place. Additionally, a person who develops the lung disorder called asbestosis has a higher risk of discovering colorectal cancer as well.

The other main problem with asbestos is that it was so widespread before the asbestos ban, which did not begin until the late 1980s. Even now, asbestos may still be present in many older buildings that were built before the phase-out. The reason for this is because asbestos is extremely insulating. As a member of the silicate family of minerals, asbestos is able to resist heat, electricity, flame, chemicals, and biodegradation. Additionally, asbestos itself is flexible and has high tensile strength. This makes it easy to add asbestos to other materials. Thus, it should come as no surprise that asbestos was once present in things like insulation, vinyl flooring, roofing tar and tiles, brake shoes, clutch pads, gaskets, and even fire doors.

People who were exposed to asbestos are at risk for many other cancers as well, not just colorectal cancer. Primary asbestos-related cancers include lung cancer and mesothelioma. If you or someone you know has contracted mesothelioma as a result of asbestos exposure, talk to an asbestos attorney from Williams Kherkher today to learn more about your rights.

Colon Cancer Signs and Symptoms

2010-02-20T01:51:00.000-08:00

Understanding what the colon is and what its functions are will help us better identify colon cancer signs. The colon is a crucial component of a human's digestive system. Human beings rely heavily on their colons to help the body absorb vital nutrients, water and minerals.

Sometimes colon cancer is also known as colorectal cancer or large bowel cancer. Colon rectal cancer means having cancerous cells growing in the colon, appendix or rectum. These adenomatous polyps growths that resemble mushroom shapes are generally benign in nature but over time have the potential to develop into deadly cancer. It is one of the top leading cause of cancer related deaths in the Western countries. Knowing whether you have cancer without being diagnosed first is almost always a challenging task, therefore it is more helpful to keep a close eye on picking up the signs or symptoms of colon rectal cancer.

Learning more about the colorectal cancer signs and familiarising yourself with the symptoms can mean quicker identification of an underlying problem and therefore increasing your chance of catching it early. Often, when cancer is caught early, the patient has a much higher chance of achieving success in its treatment. Sometimes it may feel cumbersome having to go to the doctor for something that you are not sure about but like the old saying goes, "better be safe than sorry".

Early detection of some cancer growths could sometimes mean the difference between life and death. It should not be something that is swept under the carpet and be forgotten about. Whenever cancer is involved, nothing is ever simple. It is a complicated disease.

Colon rectal cancer signs and symptoms are generally divided into localised or regional cancer (which means the cancer spread is restricted to just a confined area), constitutional (which means it is affecting the whole body) and the most serious kind metastatic (which means the cancer has actually spread to other parts or other organs in the body and this would normally imply it is now in the blood stream). Localised cancer has a much higher success rate in responding well to aggressive treatment which means the patient will stand a good chance of beating the cancer.

Colon rectal cancer signs are often mistaken for other conditions such as irritation bowel syndromes, Crohn's Disease. Significant colon rectal cancer signs can include a sudden change in your bowel habits. If you develop diarrhoea or severe constipation, or if you notice a change in the consistency of your stool for more than two weeks in a row, consult your doctor immediately. Any constipation or digestive complaints should clear within five to seven days and should not last for more than two weeks. Sometimes these discomforts or symptoms can also happen to patients with digestive tract problems, that is why it is best to consult your local doctor as soon as you notice any abnormal bowel habits to allow time for the correct diagnosis.

If you are not experiencing haemorrhoids or are not suffering from Crohn's disease and yet you have rectal bleeding or notice blood in your stool, again this could be signs of colon rectal cancer. Other signs to watch out for are persistent abdominal pain, painful stomach cramps, pain with each bowel movement, constant fatigue and chronic bloatedness.

What You Need to Know About Lymphoma

2010-02-19T01:55:00.000-08:00

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the immune system, particularly the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is part of the immune system of the body designed to filter and clean the blood from any pathogens. The fluid that goes through this system is called the lymph, and it contains lymphocytes (or WBC). This lymph now goes through a channel of lymph vessels and lymph nodes which acts as a filter and collects these microbes. It is in the lymph nodes that lymphocytes act against the microbes and destroy them. Specific types of lymphocytes are then activated for this purpose. The B lymphocytes produce anti-bodies and also alert the rest of the immune system to act upon the intruder. The T-cells kill these microbes directly by engulfing them, and also regulate the immune system on just how strong or how weak it should act upon a microbe, and when to stop. Once the microbes are destroyed, these specific lymphocytes record the type of microbes that they have destroyed and will react swiftly and quickly the next time that type of microbe or pathogen invades the body.

In lymphoma, these B-cells and T-cells including their subtypes are produced in an uncontrolled manner and rate. This overproduction will cause them to pool into lymph nodes and produce a large mass. Eventually during the course of the lymphoma, these malignant growths will also reach the tonsils, bone marrow, and adenoid tissues. Because of the abnormal rate of growth and deviation from their original structure, these lymphocytes are rendered useless in fighting against future infections. Aside from that, the growth of the malignant cells can also damage the function of normal adjacent cells. Lymphoma can compromise the development of blood cells when they reach the bone marrow and spleen, leading to bone marrow depression and anemia.

There are several types of Lymphoma, Hodgkin's and Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma being the most popular major category. Some forms of lymphoma are not life-threatening (indolent lymphoma) and a patient can survive without the need for treatment. However, some types are very aggressive and can lead to death as with Burkitt's Lymphoma. Other aggressive types of lymphoma, however, respond well to treatment, and as with most types of cancer prognosis is determined upon early detection and application of appropriate treatment.

Need to learn more about Lymphoma? Be sure to check out Lymphoma Symptoms which contains in-depth information on lymphoma symptoms, causes, treatment and much more.

Colon Rectal Cancer Treatment

2010-02-18T01:51:00.000-08:00

Being diagnosed with colon rectal cancer is a stressful time for anyone. Colon rectal cancer occurs when there are malignant cancer cells that develop and grow in the tissues of the colon. The colon is part of human's digestive system. Having a healthy digestive system is important to ensuring our overall sense of well-being. It is the hub where wastes are removed promptly out of our body and it is responsible for processing and absorbing all the crucial nutrients, vitamins, carbohydrates, proteins, fats, water and minerals.

Not everybody falls into the high-risk group of patients who develop colon rectal cancer. Some people are more at risk than the others. The factors include someone who is at or over the age of fifty, someone who has a family medical history of colon cancer, a personal history of suffering from ovarian cancer, rectal cancer, endometrium or breast cancer, and a history of having polyps in the colon. Polyps are small pieces of bulging tissues in your colon.

Other risk factors include hereditary conditions such as familial adenomatous polyposis and hereditary nonpolyposis. A medical history of ulcerative colitis which is finding ulcers in the lining of the large intestine or Crohn disease will also predispose you to colon cancer. Knowing these factors help us keep an eye on the health of our colon and make us more aware of the symptoms to watch out for.

Early diagnosis can often mean more effective treatment against colon cancer. So do not delay seeing a doctor if you notice a drastic change in your bowel habits, bloody stool, severe constipation, diarrhoea, thinner stool, sudden fatigue, vomiting, severe bloating and gas pains that just do not seem to go away. One of the reasons why you should always consult a doctor immediately after noticing these unusual and abnormal symptoms is because many of these symptoms are often also associated with other conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn's disease.

It may take time for the doctor to get to the bottom of your condition and often with cancer, the sooner the correct diagnosis is given, the higher the chance you stand to beat this disease, time is indeed precious. Doctors could start with the standard physical examination to find lumps in your colon area and probe further into your health habits, family history of colon cancer and past illnesses. Faecal occult blood test is normally done for laboratory testing. Digital rectal examination can also be performed to help detect unusual growth in your rectum. Colonoscopy could also be used to look for polyps and abnormal areas. This procedure can remove a sample of polyps or tissues to test of signs of cancer.

Biopsy is normally conducted by a pathologist to check for cancerous cells. Colon rectal cancer can be generally defined in stage zero to stage four. The best treatment for stage zero colon cancer is local excision or a simple polypectomy. If the tumour is too big to be removed by local excision, then resection or anastomosis will be opted. Stage one follows the same treatment options. Apart from resection or anastomosis, stage two and three colon cancer may benefit from chemotherapy, radiation therapy or monoclonal antibody therapy after surgery. Stage four and recurring colon cancer will benefit from all of the above and for more severe cases may require surgery to remove parts of the other organs such as the liver, lungs and ovaries where cancer may have spread to and palliative therapy to relieve the symptoms rather than a cure.

There are many Colon Cancer Warning Signs which you need to be aware of, if cause early then colon cancer survivability is at it's greatest. Remember, if you experience something out of the normal then you need to seek medical advice as soon as possible.

What is Lymphoma?

2010-02-15T01:55:00.000-08:00

When patients are diagnosed with lymphoma, most of their usual response would be: "What is lymphoma? Why do I have it?" The name alone sparks interest and fear of many, for it is one of the common types of cancer in the United States.

To fully understand what is lymphoma, you have to know first where it starts. Lymphoma is a malignancy, or cancer in the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is responsible for fighting infection, and a major part of your body's immune system. The lymphatic system comprises of the lymph, lymph nodes, lymph vessels, spleen, bone marrow, and liver. The lymph is the fluid in the lymphatic system, and carries the lymphocytes that fight microorganisms or pathogens that invade the body. The lymphocytes collect in a lymph node, with is the arena where they would fight the microorganism. To reach a body part, the lymph travels through a system tunnels or passages called the lymph vessels. Once the pathogens are filtered and destroyed, the lymph now travels to the spleen which is the storage of blood cells and dead lymphocytes as well as pathogens. The dead cells are now brought to the liver for break down and the by product is excreted via kidneys or large intestine. The bone marrow is takes part in the lymphatic system as the area where lymphocytes are produced.

The malignancy in lymphoma starts in the lymphocytes, particularly in the B-cells or T-cells. Lymphoma is categorized into two types: Hodgkin's lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The main difference between the two is that in Hodgkin's lymphoma, there is the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells inside the malignant lymphocytes. It is unknown how and why the malignancy starts in lymphoma, but the mutation of lymphocytes is believed to be connected to an immune-compromised status such as presence of viral infections (i.e. HIV/AIDS, Epstein-Barr virus), use of immune-suppressant drugs, and radiation therapy during cancer management. These malignant cells will collect in a lymph node and would form a lymph node that is more than 2 cm in size, rubbery, and non-tender. Other symptoms of lymphoma include night sweats, unexplained weight loss and fever, enlarged spleen and liver, and anorexia.

Research is still being done to understand what is lymphoma. So far, traditional cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy are being utilized to help combat the malignancy. Bone marrow transplant is done when the malignancy is at the later stage and as a last resort to combat the disease. If you suspect that you have lymphoma, contact your physician so a definite diagnosis and treatment will be given to manage your condition.

Need to learn more about Lymphoma? Be sure to check out Lymphoma Symptoms which contains in-depth information on what is lymphoma, symptoms, causes, treatment and much more.

What is a Colonoscopy?

2010-02-14T01:50:00.000-08:00

I bet I can make a good guess and tell you what you are thinking of when you read the term colonoscopy. Well if you are really thinking, what would come to mind is the term "colon." As this usually is spoken of in conjunction with bowel movement and the rectum, you can decipher that a colonoscopy would then involve some form of procedure with this part of a body.

Additionally, making a deeper analysis, one can also break this word apart forming "colon" and "copy" which would then suggest some form of duplication or reproduction of a look-a-like! Well you are indeed on the right track!

Specifically, a colonoscopy is a process in which the colon and the rectum is examined visually. The term "copy" comes into play in this regard if you are able to decipher that as a picture of the colon is made, a duplicate is indeed formed. Exclusively, it is done by utilizing a flexible, thin span to place inside the rectum, making its way to the colon and receiving visuals of its inner walls by way of a camera. Normally, it is able to detect inflamed tissue, abnormal growths and ulcers within the colon. This is all in the effort to find out if colon cancer or any abnormalities are present.

The Procedure

A colonoscopy is usually carried out in a hospital or at an outpatient clinic. Right before the colonoscopy is done, the patient is given sedatives and painkillers with an injection in a vein. The patient is placed in a side position, often times on the left side with knees drawn to their chest. The anus is then checked for any blockages with the aid of a lubricated glove.

The colonoscope (also lubricated) is then inserted in the anal passage making its way to the upper colon until the appendix has been reached.

In cases where the colon needs to be opened more for this procedure, the doctor will pump air into the colon, tightly massage the walls of the abdomen and ask the patient to change their position (usually to the right side). Once a tumor or abnormality is found, a portion is taken by way of a biopsy in which treatment is obtained with the help of this sample. Air thereafter is allowed to escape the rectum so as to avoid painful and unpleasant feelings.
Other facts you may find useful about a colonoscopy is that in most cases it will not hurt if the procedure is done in the right way. Additionally, it is an important procedure that should be taken by all who have a family history of colon cancer or have experienced rectal bleeding.

Persons over the age of fifty years are usually encouraged to get a colonoscopy once every five years. If you are scheduled to undertake a colonoscopy, you will usually be given medication to cleanse your colon beforehand, making the doctor's work easier and examination much quicker!

If you or a loved one are facing Surgery For Colon Cancer, be sure to visit my site and read my article on Laparoscopic Surgery for Colon Cancer.

Colon Cancer - Your Whole Life Affected

2010-02-12T01:50:00.000-08:00

Your colon is probably the most important part in you body, this is where all your nutrients are absorbed and where all your bowel is removed from your body. But if you don't not take care of your body or watch what you eat you will start to develop colon cancer.

Once you develop colon cancer its over for you. You could go to surgery and have them removed but there is no telling if they are going to come back and mostly likely there are going to if you don't start focus on turning your life around.

You are not only going to struggle day to day trying to use the restroom you are also going to have to struggle when you sleep, when you want to spend time with your family, and just enjoying life to the fullest and not to mention death.

You will start to fill depressed because you don't feel the same and cant do the things that you use to do before. You are going to have to schedule appointment after appointment after appointment just to check how you are doing. Do you really want to spend your days in an out of a hospital?

All of this can be avoided by doing some simple little things, yes it may not seem simple at first because you are so used to living a different way, but over time little by little it will only be natural to you.

Cook your food, don't go out to eat, you don't even have to work out just go for some walks anything that will help you stay fit and healthy. If you don't feel like doing this tell yourself that you have to do it for your family or whatever that will motivate you.

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What is Hodgkin's Lymphoma?

2010-02-11T01:54:00.000-08:00

Hodgkin's lymphoma (a.k.a. Hodgkin's Disease) is named after its discoverer, Thomas Hodgkin. This disease is characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells in the body. This type of cell is can be seen under histopathologic studies and are usually found in malignant B-Cells. These malignant B-cells will grow in number, eventually causing a tumor in a lymph node or lymph tissue such as the bone marrow or spleen. Because of this tumor, the affected tissue loses its function, leading to slow deterioration of the body. This disease is noted for is orderly metastasis. If the malignancy started at the lymph nodes located at the neck, the adjacent lymph nodes will be affected one by one; the malignancy will be seen at the lymph nodes located near the collar bone, then at the armpits, and so one.

Hodgkin's lymphoma peaks occurs mostly in male than in females, with ages ranging from 15-13 years old to above 50. What's also striking about this condition is that under microscopic studies, there are more normal cells found in the enlarged lymph nodes compared to malignant cells. The cause of this disease still not known; however it has been found that if a twin has it, the other is also at risk of having Hodgkin's lymphoma. Most Reed-Sternberg cells were also observed to be infected with the Epstein-Barr virus, the infectious agent of mononucleosis. Exposure to Agent Orange and prolonged use of human growth hormone is also accounted as a factor in obtaining Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Conditions that compromise the immune system such as HIV or AIDS also predispose a person to this disease.

Patients with Hodgkin's lymphoma usually have these classical signs and symptoms:

- Drenching night sweats.

- Sudden and unexplained weight loss

- Enlarged lymph nodes that are characterized as rubbery and painless located at the neck, under arm, and groin

- Feeling of easily getting tired

- Unexplained fever that goes on and off

- Itchiness that is not related to any other skin condition

When detected early, Hodgkin's lymphoma shows high survival rate, thereby making it one of the curable forms of cancer known to man. With proper management and therapy, Hodgkin's lymphoma is still highly curable even at the later stage.

Need to learn more about Lymphoma? Be sure to check out Lymphoma Symptoms which contains in-depth information on Hodgkin's Lymphoma, symptoms, causes, treatment and much more.

Cancer Prevention - Good News For Vegans

2010-02-10T01:58:00.000-08:00

As far as scary words in the English language go, "cancer" is near the top of the list. The good news is that we don't have to wait around simply hoping that cancer doesn't affect us and our loved ones. According to scientists in the UK, effective cancer prevention starts with the food on your plate.

The British Journal of Cancer reports optimistic news for vegans. British scientists studied the diets of over 61,000 men and women for 12 years. At the end of 12 years, the scientists recorded how many subjects developed stomach, bladder, ovarian, and lymphatic cancers in the three dietary categories reviewed: vegan, pescetarian, and omnivore. For each type of cancer tested, vegans developed a significantly lower number of cases than did meat eaters.

The National Cancer Institute currently predicts that stomach cancer will be diagnosed in over 21,000 American men and women in 2010 and will cause over 10,000 deaths. The lifetime risk of stomach cancer is 1 in 113.

Of men and women born today, 2.41% can expect to be diagnosed with urinary bladder cancer during their lifetimes. That's 1 in 41 people. Almost 71,000 American men and women are diagnosed annually with bladder cancer and over 14,000 of these bladder cancer cases prove fatal.

For women born today, 1.4% can expect a diagnosis of ovarian cancer during their lifetimes. The National Cancer Institute estimates that more than 21,000 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer and over 14,000 women will die of ovarian cancer in 2010.

The National Cancer Institute predicts that over 70,000 American men and women will be diagnosed with lymphoma in 2010 and that more than 20,000 of these cases will prove fatal.

The position of the American Dietetic Association on vegan diets is that they are associated with fewer cases of cancer as well as fewer cases of type II diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and death from heart attacks. Some nutrients that the ADA regards as healthy and particularly high in vegan diets are fruits, vegetables, nuts, soy products, fiber, and phytochemicals (phyto=related to plants).

Don't let yourself and your loved ones become a statistic. Join Gobble Green in the movement for disease prevention and make the transition to a vegan diet in 2010.

Jennifer Clary is an owner of the vegan food company Gobble Green http://www.gobblegreen.com
and a CEO of the national media corporation jenkev productions http://www.jenkev.com. Gobble Green is an online marketplace offering a diverse and frequently updated selection of healthy, pre-packaged vegan meals. In addition to her corporate responsibilities, Jennifer is an award winning film director and a proud vegan.

CMS Sets Different Standards For CT Colonography?

2010-02-10T01:47:00.000-08:00

n the February 2010 edition of the Annals of Internal Medicine, Samita Garg, MD; and Dennis J. Ahnen, MD discuss at length about the decision of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to not cover computed tomographic colonography (CTC) screening for colon cancer.

The rationale for the CMS decision includes concerns about radiation exposure, miss rates for small polyps, detection of incidental extracolonic findings, variability in performance, and lack of evidence that adding computed tomographic colonography would increase overall screening rates. The authors discusses about these concerns and point out that these concerns are associated with other recommended and covered screening tests as well, and some where set only for CTC.

Radiation Exposure

Radiation exposure fron CTC is low (about 6-8 mSv per examination) and the cancer risk estimated is unclear. But Barium enema, which exposes to similar radiation dose is covered by the CMS for colon cancer screening.

False Negative Rates for Polyps

Even though studies have proven that CTC is less sensitive in detecting small polyps (≤5 mm in diameter) when compared to colonoscopy, the benefits of detection, removal and follow-up pof small polyps is uncertain. CMS accepted tests colonoscopy misses up to 25% of small polyps and 12% of polyps larger than 1 cm, sigmoidoscopy cannot see proximal colon while faecal colonoscopy misses almost all small polyps.

Extracolonic Findings

Seven to 16% of CTC detect extracolonic abnormalities leading to further testing, overdiagnosis, and overtreatment.

The USPSTF (2) concludes that "the evidence to assess the harms related to extra-colonic finding is insufficient, and the balance of benefits and harms cannot be determined."

A recent large study (19) reported that only 12% of 1169 patients who underwent upper endoscopy after negative results on colonoscopy that was performed because of positive results on fecal occult blood testing had a significant finding (such as arteriovenous malformation, ulcers, suspected Barrett esophagus, or esophageal stricture), and whether identification of these lesions is ultimately beneficial or harmful remains uncertain.

Variability in the Reliability of CTC

While it was pointed out that CTC is less reliable due to the variability in the results, the quality of colonoscopy in the United States varies greatly is also well established. Detection rates of serious adenomas (those larger than 1 cm in diameter) vary up to 4-fold (20). Also, colonoscopy complications vary by more than 10-fold.

Lack of Targeted Studies

Studies of CTC have not specifically targeted patients aged 65 years or older who are eligible for Medicare, but participants 65 years or older were included in the large CTC studies (8-10). But targeted studies of the other colorectal cancer screening tests in patients 65 years or older have also not been reported.

Higher Adenoma Prevalence

More adenomas in above 65yrs leads to higher follow-up colonoscopies but sigmoidoscopy can also lead to this.

Overall Adherence

The CMS argual that adding CTC to colorectal screening options may increase the number of participants who would accept screening is unproven seems to be a totally new standard that only CTC is expected to meet.

Cost efectiveness

Cost-effectiveness modeling seems to be part of a new and higher standard that may be applied to future colorectal cancer screening tests.

Finally the authors concludes that CTC is being held to a higher standard than the other colorectal cancer screening tests (like colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, faecal occult blood examination, Barium enema etc) that are currently recommended by the USPSTF and covered by the CMS.

Dealing With the Symptoms of Colitis

2010-02-08T02:57:00.000-08:00

Colitis is a serious condition affecting many today. It is not only a painful and sometimes embarrassing health problem to go through, but it can also be life threatening if allowed to reach a cancerous state. Individuals are always encouraged to nip this illness in the bud before it reaches that stage. Talk to your doctor about methods of early detection so that treatment can be well underway before it gets worse. These treatments include prescription drugs and changes in one's diet. In the most serious of cases these treatments are done along with the surgical removal of the affected part of the colon.

Specifically, Colitis is an inflammatory disease of the large intestine, or the colon. Reasons for this occurrence include a poor blood supply - which inevitably contribute to diarrhea, dehydration, anemia and shock- infections, and autoimmunity of the body. Colitis usually results in diarrhea, dehydration, malnutrition, as well as a bleeding ulcer producing mucus and pus at intervals. Diarrhea causes the body to lose far more fluids than usual. Diarrhea is usually the symptom that is seen in every type of colitis known to man. Cramps and sporadic abdominal pains are also a common feature of this condition. Other signs include fever and chills, the constant urge to use the bathroom, and the presence of blood in one's stool.

Now as mentioned earlier, this occurrence can be quite embarrassing for the victim and often times requires a support system such as close relative and friends. This becomes a greater concern where in almost all cases of colitis, one's daily activities have to be changed to necessitate the demands of this terrible ailment. A great way in which help can be given to someone dealing with the symptoms of Colitis is by being available to them during tests and examinations of this disease. Such tests include examining the blood to check the factors that might lead to this condition, conducting a colonoscopy to scrutinize the walls of the colon and finally, by way of a computerized tomography that visualizes the colon and abdomen.

Many people suffering from colitis have gotten to the point that they have difficulty leaving the house. They never know when they'll have to find a bathroom. This can make work and travel very difficult. Helping a friend or family member discover that colitis is the problem and that there are ways to treat it can help them get their life back again. It is helpful to research and talk about treatment methods with the colitis sufferer, and to carry out proactive measures such as encouraging a doctor's visit for medicinal aids to the aches and pains (which people might easily mistake as just ordinary abdominal pains and diarrhea) and eating healthy foods that don't cause colon distress!

What is Colon Cancer and is it Treatable?

2010-02-08T02:55:00.000-08:00

Most people have heard that colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the Western world. But most people don't have a good understanding of what it is or what causes it to occur. Many times in life, we learn so many complex things that the simple things we ought to remember from health class in high school seem like nothing more than a mystery to us. The problem is that quite often in our busy lives, we don't recognize symptoms and problems when they start to occur. Colon cancer is a good case in point. Simply put, the colon is the part of the digestive system that stores waste material to be excreted later through the anus via the rectum.

Colon cancer is also classified as large bowel cancer or colorectal cancer, which one can infer has something to deal with the rectum. In this sense, it involves the development of cancerous tissue abnormality in the colon, thereby affecting the rectum and the appendix. These tissue abnormalities are more commonly known as adenomatous polyps which frequent the inner walls of the colon and are similar in shape to that of mushrooms. As these polyps are seen as simple in the beginning, their development into malignant abnormalities is what is regarded as colon cancer. For this reason, colonoscopies are encouraged so that there can be an early detection of these polyps and can be removed before they cause more serious problems. Importantly, researchers have found that a lot of the cancers of the colon found their origin in polyps which were left to develop untreated over time.

The most dangerous thing about this disease is the fact that it causes damage to one's tissues and organs, the building blocks of the body. In this way, the liver and lungs may also be affected, halting the important digestive system and making it hard for the individual to breathe efficiently. This metastasis late stage process is the final sign that there is no coming back from treatment and that unfortunately, the result would be death.

Certainly, from this we cannot underestimate statistical reports that conclude that over 650,000 people die per year from this cancer, with the Western societies having the most frequent cases. It rarely takes place within Africa and Asia. Leading these statistics is the United States, which considers this disease as the fourth most common form of cancer as well as the third leading cause of death relating to cancer.

Other useful information for a person interested in the topic of colon cancer is the fact that it is treatable with surgery as well as chemotherapy in the more serious cases. Now I am going to leave you with something to think about colon cancer which was not mentioned earlier to pique your interest on further reading. In this way, more precaution and action can be taken if you happen to have this deadly disease. Genes along the chain of the colon are ultimately damaged with the development of this cancer, in particular the APC gene. What do you think the effect this will have on the body as well as children of these individuals? All the more reason to get preventative screenings early and often.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with colon cancer, find out more about bowel cancer surgery and colon cancer surgery recovery on my site.

What is Cutaneous Lymphoma?

2010-02-06T01:54:00.000-08:00

Cutaneous lymphoma is a type of Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma involving the lymphocytes within the skin, specifically T-cells and B-Cells. This is a rare type of Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma where the tumor growths are seen mostly as numerous lumps beneath the skin's surface and not in just a lymph node.

The lumps formed beneath the skin cutaneous lymphoma are due to a collection of the malignant cells in the skin. In an attempt to purge the system of the mutated cells, the body pushes the clustered malignant cells towards the surface of the skin. The most common type of cutaneous lymphoma is the cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. The disease manifests itself in several stages:

* Pre-tumor stage - the skin is presented with raised, red patches that appear on the breasts or buttocks and somewhat mimics the appearance of other skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. ?>

* Plaque stage - the patches are now irregularly shaped and can appear anywhere in the body. Hair loss in the affected skin area is also noted, and can be permanent if the condition is not treated.

* Tumor stage - the incidence of people progressing to this stag is quite small. The plaques can now form lumps and even ulcerate. Lymph nodes are also affected. The liver, lungs, and spleen is also at risk of being affected by the cutaneous lymphoma, but the cases are quite rare.

* Sezary syndrome - this is when the malignancy has spread and covers a large skin area. The malignant cells have also metastasized in the blood stream. Some patients have no plaques or tumors, but the entire integumentary system may be swollen, red and sore (l'homme rouge). The skin can also manifest desquamation or peeling off of skin.

Cutaneous lymphoma of T-cell origin is treated through a specific or a combination of treatment modalities that can range from topical or local to systemic. PUVA treatment is a combination of psoralen and UVA. After taking psoralen, the patient enters an enclosed room where rays of UVA is applied on the skin. However, extra care must be given for it is known that exposure to UV rays can predispose a person to skin cancer. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy is also done to help cure cutaneous lymphoma.

Cutaneous lymphoma can be hard to deal with for it can cause some severe changes in your appearance. A support group can help you combat the disease both in its physical and psychological aspects. Talk to your friends and family during hard times, and ask your doctor to refer you to a cancer support group to help you understand and cope with the effects of cutaneous lymphoma.

Need to learn more about Lymphoma? Be sure to check out Lymphoma Symptoms which contains in-depth information on Cutaneous Lymphoma, symptoms, causes, treatment and much more.

Colonoscopy and the Prevention of Colon Cancer

2010-02-02T02:55:00.000-08:00

I have said this before, but perhaps it bears repeating. Taking charge of your cancer is not just about what you do when you are diagnosed with it, but what you do to try to insure that you are not diagnosed with it. On a recent trip to my doctor for my annual physical, I pointed out to him that five years had passed since I had my first (and only) colonoscopy. He checked and sure enough I was right; so he ordered me to make an appointment and get it done.

Now let's be clear: I am no fan of colonoscopies, but actually the procedure itself is a piece of cake. It's the preparation for the procedure that is "yucky". For 24 hours prior to the procedure, I ingested only liquids, nothing solid. My doctor gave me a prescription for a concoction called Moviprep, which, when mixed with water and ingested, is designed to induce diarrhea to clean out the colon in preparation for the colonoscopy. Why is this procedure important and what does it have to do with colon cancer?

A colonoscopy is the official screening procedure for colon cancer. It is recommended for individuals age 50 and over. Over a lifetime of food intake, digestion, and subsequent expulsion from the body, an individual can develop growths called polyps along the walls of the colon. Polyps are common in adults and are usually harmless. However, most colon cancer begins as a polyp, so removing polyps early is an effective way to prevent cancer. If bleeding occurs, the doctor can usually stop it with an electrical probe or special medications passed through a scope into the colon. The doctor may extract a biopsy of any polyps in order to view it under the microscope to determine if cancerous tissue is present.

After an intravenous injection and an administration of anesthesia, I was rolled over on my left side and, approximately 20 minutes later, a nurse was calling my name, my doctor was telling me that the procedure went fine and that I was good to go for another five years. Two new words, however, were added to my vocabulary: diverticulosis and diverticulitis. Diverticulosis is characterized by the formation of "pockets" in the lining of the large intestine. Diverticulitis is an acute stage of diverticulosis when the "pockets" have become infected or inflamed. Neither of these conditions is cancerous and can be treated with a gradual high fiber diet for diverticulosis and a low fiber diet for diverticulitis.

The bottom line is that a colonoscopy can detect precancerous growths and those growths can be removed before the development of colon cancer. Colon cancer is more than 90% curable if caught in its early stages, yet fear of the unknown prevents many from undergoing a simple procedure. Get rid of the fear and take charge of the prevention of colon cancer!

Colon Health Check - Self Test For Early Colon Cancer Detection

2010-02-02T01:49:00.000-08:00

Colon cancer, also known as colonic or bowel cancer is quickly becoming a mass killer among us. It is the third most common cancer for both men and women and it is estimated that 150,000 new cases of colorectal cancer will be diagnosed this year in America. One of the biggest problems is early detection. There usually no symptoms associated with the early stages of colorectal cancer, making makes this type of cancer very lethal. Until recently, no self test kits were available for colon cancer early detection. Fortunately technology has advanced and now this is a very real option.

Screen Yourself with a Self Test Kit for a Home Colon Health Check

Before you rush to your doctor and embark on a series of unpleasant tests, such as a colonoscopy, you may consider a new alternative now available. It is possible to perform a colon health check for detection of early stages of colonic cancer by identifying fecal blood in the stool. In fact the American Cancer Society strongly recommends people test for fecal occult blood every year. Fecal occult blood indicates bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract which may be an indication of cancer.

Bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract can also be caused by benign conditions such as hemorrhoids, polyps, stomach ulcers, rectal fissures and more. In any case this will be detected in the colon health check self test after which you would see a physician as soon as possible to determine the cause of the bleeding.

Who Should Take a Colon Health Check?

Testing for colon cancer is recommended to anyone over the age of 40 as well as for any one who is at high risk to develop colon cancer. High risk categories include:

People who have had colon or rectal cancer, breast, or reproductive tract cancer, anyone with benign intestinal polyps. People that have a family relation to anyone who has been diagnosed with colon or rectal cancer. African-American men and women.

Colon cancer is very real and can happen to anyone. It is recommended to self test your colon once a year, remember, one simple test every year can help save your life!

Early detection of colon cancer can save your life! Colon Health Check provides a promise to increase early colon cancer detection and is the first self test kit to be used in the comfort of your own home. There are many small lifestyle changes you can make to increase your chances against colon cancer including diet, exercise and colon cleansing.

Leukemia Cures and Natural Treatments

2010-02-01T01:57:00.000-08:00

Are you looking for a fresh approach to leukemia cures? If so then you may want to know that there are natural leukemia cures available. Many people who have cancer find themselves looking for these cures simply because the traditional medical treatments for these illnesses take so much out of the patient physically. This being said it is certainly not uncommon to find that many are looking for cures that don't make them as sick and don't leave them feeling completely and utterly drained.

Alternative natural treatment methods include detoxification and oxygenation that you could use to cure yourself of cancer. As for their loved ones, they may even be the ones that see it first and begin the search for a natural method because seeing their family member go through so much might simply be too much for them to handle, and they are not even the ones enduring them.

Why are natural treatments better?

Natural treatments have been proven to actually cure cancer just like the medical treatments have. The best part of these is as mentioned above the side effects are nothing in comparison to the side effects of the chemical treatments. Most of the natural remedies actually have no side effects at all. These might be what draw so many people to those natural treatments.

After all who would want to go through the nausea, vomit, fatigue, and hair loss, not to mention other side effects these chemical treatments can cause? Should you decide that you are in preference to the chemical treatments you should know that there are also some natural treatments that you might be able to use at the same time to help optimize your chances of remission.

This is not to say that all natural remedies work for all people because they simply don't. What it is saying is that there is a great chance of remission using natural methods as well though just like chemotherapy does not work for everyone you may find that a few of the natural remedies don't work for you either. You may also find that you get the best results by using several different natural remedies at one time. This is the best way to optimize your results with natural treatment.

What are some natural treatment methods?

There are lots of natural treatment methods that you can use. As mentioned above you may even choose to use more than one treatment method at a time. This could be two or more natural methods or a chemical method with a natural method. If you are undergoing any kind of treatment or taking any medications you will need to be sure to discuss these methods with your doctor before you start taking them. Even if you aren't going through treatment or medication it is still a good idea for this to be brought up.

You should never use a natural method without reporting it to your treating physician having a doctor over see you is still very important to your health and in getting the treatments that you need. Many times your physician will not see problems in the natural methods of your choice if there should be a conflict however because of your current treatment or medication then your doctor should be able to tell you which natural methods you can use to get you going with the natural treatment that you desire.

How to Reduce the Risk of Colon Cancer

2010-02-01T01:49:00.000-08:00

A clean colon is a happy colon, and the better care you take the lesser the risk of colon and colorectal cancer. For some, this disease may be connected genetically and therefore puts you at higher probability than others. However, proper preventative measures can help reduce the changes of being diagnosed. Simple practices, like taking time out for your health and eating the right things, can do a world of good for your intestines as well as your entire body. How can you reduce the possibility of colon cancer and ensure good results on colonscopies? Here are just a few things you should try.

Get more Vitamin D: a recent study from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer reports that high doses of Vitamin D can lower the chance for colon problems. Eating foods fortified with Vitamin D or taking daily supplements, and spending some time outdoors are great ways to get this important disease-fighting agent.

Get checked regularly: Starting around fifty, one should strongly consider a baseline colonoscopy if you haven't had one. Having an annual exam where a gastroenterologist inspects the inside of you large intestine can help catch anomalies early on, where otherwise they could grow into serious problems. Talk with a local gastroenterology specialist today about an appointment if you are eligible.

Eat Green: A diet rich in green vegetables and high fiber foods, especially broccoli, is instrumental in ensuring continued health. You may wish also to consult with your doctor about the proper colon cleansing foods to try, like wheatgrass and other foods designed to detox your system.

The more effort you put into taking care of yourself, the better the chance of living long without worries of colon problems.

Colorectal Cancer and Weight Loss Surgery

2010-01-29T02:56:00.000-08:00

Severe obesity has been known to be associated with life threatening morbidities including Type 2 diabetes, arthritis, asthma, sleep apnea, hypertension and heart disease.

Epidemiological data have consistently demonstrated that there is an increasing evidence of a positive correlation between increased body weight and malignancies of the breast, pancreas, ovaries, esophagus and the colon. In fact, oncologists even suggest a more aggressive screening for cancers in the obese: especially for breast, uterine, and colorectal cancers.

So, is there an association between colorectal cancer and weight loss surgery?

Researchers believe that dysregulation of energy homeostasis is associated with colorectal carcinogenesis, with insulin resistance (the impaired ability to normalize plasma glucose levels inspite of adequate insulin reserves) being the core of these pathogenesis. The alteration of the patient's hormonal milieu due to weight loss therefore may result in a lower incidence of these cancers.

In a study of 1482 women with severe obesity, it was found that those who had not undergone bariatric surgery had a significantly higher cancer diagnosis rate (5.8 versus 3.6 percent) than did the patients who had undergone bariatric surgery. There is clinical evidence to suggest that obese women who undergo bariatric surgery experience as much as a 42 percent drop in the relative risk for developing a malignancy.

In a retrospective study, researchers compared 1,035 morbidly obese patients who underwent bariatric surgery with 5,746 patients with the same weight profile who did not undergo the operation. They found that the incidence of diagnosis of colorectal cancer in the first group was 70 percent lower than the second group. The study group also reported a significantly lower incidence of other malignancies in the first group.

Given that obesity affects the body in various ways, a single hypothesis cannot fully explain the result of weight loss surgery on the incidence of colorectal cancer. A possible explanation is that excess body fat is responsible for hormonal imbalances which constitute a major risk factor for colorectal malignancies.

The decrease in body weight, as well the increase in the distal small intestine hormone peptide YY (PYY), and glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), which are secreted by intestinal L cells consequent to weight loss surgery result in an altered metabolic milieu. The chronic low grade inflammation known to be associated with obesity decreases, as does the oxidative stress, resulting in protection from malignancies, including those of the colon.

It is therefore difficult to attribute the decreased risk for cancer to weight loss alone and multiple factors both pre- and post-bariatric surgery have to be evaluated before reaching a conclusion. Another important consideration when considering the impact of weight loss surgery on cancer risk is that diet and exercise have not proven very effective strategies for weight loss in the morbidly obese.

Researchers therefore maintain that even though there are no randomized case control trials to suggest that sustained weight loss through bariatric surgery decreases the risk of death from colorectal cancer, especially in men, who are most at risk for this, weight loss surgery could be protective for colorectal cancer as well as other obesity related malignancies.

Can Colon Cancer Be Prevented?

2010-01-29T02:54:00.000-08:00

As the population continues to age more research is done on how to slow down the aging process and get more energy. Everybody wants to look and feel younger. Everybody wants to take better care of themselves.

One of the areas that is often neglected is the colon. My mother died of colon cancer a year ago and it seems that once she was diagnosed her health declined rapidly. Doctors have recommended that you begin annual screenings after the age of 50 but the truth is most people ignore this preventative care until its too late.

When my mom found out about her cancer she was in stage 4, which meant the cancer had already spread to her liver. What pain she endured.

I remember in one of our conversations she said, " I wish I had found out sooner". I wish she had too...

One lesson that I can take from her untimely death is the need for paying attention to my body and listening to my doctor. I also believe that everyone should take better care of their colons.

How do you that? To reach and maintain optimum health your body must successfully eliminate toxins and bodily waste. The colon, lungs, and kidneys are designed to cleanse your body by getting rid of toxins in your intestines, blood, and lymph systems.

The colon can host more than 60 varieties of bacteria that aid in digestion that can turn into disease if toxins are not properly eliminated. It is interesting to note that most people carry 7-10 pounds of extra waste. Can you imagine that? That would explain the bloating and lack of energy.

To get rid of this toxic waste talk to your doctor about colonic irrigation or a cleanse of some sort. I personally recommend Ultra Body Cleanse which has probiotics, natural herbs, and enzymes to help gently cleanse your body's internal organs. Colonic irrigation can be kind of pricey but the Ultra Body Cleanse will give you the same results for just a fraction of the cost. Either way do something to get rid of the waste. Your love ones are counting on you.

Tracie Davis is a successful internet marketer who takes pride in helping her clients attain optimum health and wealth. Not only is she knowledgeable in how to live a healthy lifestyle, she can also teach you how to make a serious income online.

Can Yogurt Fight Gastrointestinal Ulcers?

2010-01-27T02:53:00.000-08:00

Recently, in a report presented at the 237th National Meeting of the American Chemical Society, it was revealed that there is a new yogurt which appears to have the ability to fight the bacteria responsible for gastritis and stomach ulcers.

In the report, which was based upon the result of human clinical studies, Japanese researchers claimed that ingesting the yogurt is comparable to the effects of innoculation by a vaccine for both conditions.

Yogurt Facts

Yogurt, a fermented milk product, has long been known to be a healthy source of calcium, protein and various other nutrients. Currently, many brands of yogurt contain probiotics (i.e., certain types of bacteria believed by many alternative and allopathic practitioners to have beneficial impacts on many digestive issues).

This new kind of yogurt may represent a unique approach to fighting stomach ulcers. It is perhaps the latest product in the ever growing, "functional food," market, which now generates some $60 million in annual sales. Indeed, stomach ulcers affect some 25 million people annually in the United States alone.

The study's coordinator, Hajime Hatta, a chemist at Kyoto Women's University, in Japan, had this to say: "With this new yogurt, people can enjoy the taste of yogurt, while preventing or eliminating the bacteria that cause stomach ulcers."

Researchers are hopeful that the new yogurt, which is already available in Japan (under the name "Dr. Piro"), Korea (under the name "Gut",) and Taiwan will soon be on the shelves in the United States.

Stomach Ulcers

Most stomach ulcers are now known to be caused by a bacteria, known as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), or by overuse of aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. In the past H. pylori ulcers have been effectively treated and eliminated with antibiotics and acid suppressants; however, for millions of poverty-stricken people who suffer from H. pylori ulcers, such treatments may simply be unavailable.

Research has linked childhood H. pylori-induced ulcers to more serious health problems like malnutrition and impaired growth. Scientists have long been at a loss to find a more economical and accessible way of treating these bacteria.

IgY-urease

In the study, Hatta and colleagues point out that H. pylori appears to depend upon a protein known as urease to attach itself to and infect the lining of the stomach. The researchers used classic vaccine-creation techniques in their efforts to thwart the effects of the urease protein, injecting chickens with urease, and allowing the chickens to produce antibodies to the protein. The researchers harvested the antibody, IgY-urease, from the eggs of the chickens, postulating that the consumption of yogurt containing IgY-urease might help to prevent the bacteria from adhering to the lining of the stomach.

The study consisted of a group of 42 people, all of whom suffered from H. pylori ulcers, who were segregated into 2 groups, one group was fed 2 cups daily of untreated yogurt and the other group was fed yogurt containing the antibody. At the end of the 4-week study, urease levels in the latter group had decreased significantly.

Yogurt and Ulcers

Ultimately, although the yogurt appears to be somewhat less effective than antibiotics in treating H. pylori ulcers, it is certainly more accessible and can be eaten every day. The antibody has no effect upon the taste of the yogurt.

Researchers cautioned, however, that since yogurt is a dairy product that also contains egg yolk, those with an allergy to dairy or eggs should not consume this new "anti-ulcer" yogurt. Furthermore, unlike antibiotics, which once taken, can permanently eliminate the problem, the yogurt must be eaten on a consistent basis. So, it would appear that unless an individual wishes to avoid use of an antibiotic, it might well be more beneficial to partake of the permanent solution than to commit to use of a product for the duration of one's lifespan.

HNPCC - A Hereditary Cancer Syndrome

2010-01-25T02:51:00.000-08:00

HNPCC stands for Hereditary Non Polyposis Colon Cancer - HNPCC is a hereditary syndrome that is caused when a person inherits a mutation in one of five different genes. HNPCC is also called Lynch Syndrome, after Dr. Henry Lynch who realized that it was a separate disorder from other hereditary colon cancers. HNPCC is not a form of cancer, rather a syndrome that puts people at high risk for colon cancer. If people born with HNPCC do not undergo regular screening beginning at an early age, they have an 80% chance of developing colon cancer. This type of cancer (HNPCC) accounts for 5-6% of all colon cancers.

How is HNPCC Inherited?

Parents with HNPCC have a 50% chance of passing the HNPCC gene to each of their children. Individuals who do not inherit the gene cannot pass it to their own children. Unfortunately, some individuals with HNPCC do not have an affected parent. These individuals, who are the first to have the condition, are referred to as having a new altered gene mutation. Once they acquire the mutated gene, they can pass this HNPCC gene to their children.

What Causes HNPCC?

The cause of HNPCC is caused by damaged genes. Specifically, there have been genetic markers identified which is reflective of micro satellite instability. The DNA mismatch repair genes have been identified as HMSH2, HMLH1, HPMS1, and HPMS2. If you have been identified as having HNPCC, then one or more of these genes will show micro satellite instability. Patients with HNPCC usually develop colon cancer at an earlier age than the general population. There is a propensity for right-sided lesions.

How is HNPCC Diagnosed?

HNPCC is diagnosed usually after one or more family members develop colon cancer. The family history is examined to see if there is cause and effect. This is usually accomplished by genetic counseling. The primary method that doctors and genetic counselors determine if you have HNPCC is by looking at the types of cancer and age at which cancer developed in you or your family.

If the genetic counselor you or your family does have HNPCC, the next step usually involves looking at tumors from people in your family (if they are available). If the tumors suggest that there is a detectable genetic error predisposing your family to HNPCC, the next step is a genetic test to try to identify the error. If someone in your family is found to have an error in one of the genes associated with HNPCC, then other family members can be tested for the same error to find out if they too have inherited the predisposition to HNPCC.

What Can I Do?

If you suspect you might have HNPCC, the best things you can do are research your family history and then meet with a genetic counselor. An ideal method is to create a flowchart of your family history going back 3 or more generations. List the relatives and determine if any of them had colon cancer, and if they had died from the disease. Then schedule an appointment with a genetic counselor to review the information. She will ask additional questions and determine if a genetic test is recommended. If someone in your family has recently been diagnosed with the cancer, then they are an ideal candidate to have the test performed. They will need to provide a tumor sample.

Colon Cancer Prevention through Screening

If your family has a history of colon cancer or you have the HNPCC gene, then you must get screenings done earlier than the general population, and more frequently. The standard method is colonoscopy. With colonoscopy, the doctor will examine the colon and small bowel with a flexible fiber optic camera. The doctor will search for small growths called polyps. If any are encountered, they will be removed during the procedure and sent for biopsy. Polyps are benign when they first develop but will eventually evolve in cancer if left undisturbed.

Final Thoughts

Depending on your family history, you could have a colonoscopy beginning at age 20. The general population is recommended to have a colonoscopy at age 50 and every 5 years thereafter if no problems or family history of cancel is evident. The frequency and age to start will need to be decided with consultation with your family and your doctor. If you have any symptoms such as dark purple colored stool, blood in the stool or rectal bleeding, consult your doctor immediately. It could mean the difference between life and death.

William writes articles for various topics. His family has a history of colon cancer and was tested for the HNPCC gene. His specialty is dog health but he has various other interests. You can visit his newest websites at John Deere Snow Blower and Toro Snow Blower.

Tips in Preparing For a Colonoscopy

2010-01-22T02:51:00.000-08:00

You finally made the decision to get a colonoscopy. Good job! Whether it is due to the abdominal pains, rectal bleeding, your age, or having a family history of colon disease, this procedure is an excellent way to find out if your colon is in good working order. The following are useful things you can do whilst preparing for a colonoscopy:

1. Since you will not be able to drive after the exam, make preparations for a close friend or relative to take you to and from the clinic. it would make no sense for you to drive there since you can't drive after the screening. Since you will be sedated during the procedure, you want someone who will be able to help you afterward.

2. Provide the doctor with a detailed report of your medical history, explicitly stating all the medicines you have taken in the past as this will determine the amount of sedatives you will need during the operation as well as painkillers. This is especially important if you have been taking blood thinners or insulin, as the process usually starts with an injection in a blood vein. Additionally, it is advisable that a week before this screening, all dosages of aspirin products must be stopped. Other supplements including iron must also be paused.

3. There should be lots of intake of fluids about a week before the exam. Refrain from milk, acidic or citrus juices such as orange juice. Other liquids such as coffee, tea, fruit juices and water are okay. If you are taking this screening test in the summer and feel the need for a popsicle a few days before the exam, you can have one but be sure to check that it has no cream or frozen fruit.

4. As your doctor will also prescribe a special drink for you, be sure to get your daily intake of this so as to aid in the process of elimination of fecal matter, making the colonoscopy much easier for both you and the doctor. Try drinking it cold after being refrigerated as it tastes a lot better this way.

This goes hand in hand with staying away from solid foods on the day of your test as well as the day before. Stick to foods like soup, porridge and mash potatoes for example. It is also advisable that you stop drinking water on the day of your exam as your colon needs to be empty for a perfect examination.

5. Pack a bag with an extra change of clothes on the day of your exam in case of any unpreventable accidents that might occur.

These steps provide a sure way for you to be ready for your colonoscopy screening. All in all, don't be nervous as this test only lasts for approximately 20 minutes and is not painful. By following all these suggestions for the examination, you will undoubtedly make the procedure a lot faster and much easier.

Depending on the results of your colonoscopy, you may find that you need a colon cancer procedure. For more information on what a colon cancer operation entails, be sure to visit my site.

Prevention is Better Than A Cure

2010-01-18T02:50:00.000-08:00

The last 12 hours haven't been exactly great for me - but that's OK.

This morning I had a colonoscopy. For those of you who don't know what that is - here goes: It involves having a long soft tube inserted into the bowel to check for any cancerous polyps, what are polyps? (A polyp is an abnormal growth of tissue projecting from a mucous membrane).Why did I have this done? There is bowel cancer in my family. My mother's mother died of bowel cancer, my father's father died of it. My mother is a bowel cancer survivor, as is my Father.

Pretty heavy stuff eh?

So 24 hours ago I stopped eating - the previous 12 hours I couldn't eat anything that would stay in my body longer than 24 hours - my diet for that day was chicken, white rice, white bread - hard for me as I'm a healthy eater, I enjoy eating brown bread, brown rice - but you see those things are known as 'whole foods' which whilst good for your body they are not 'cleared' out of the system in time for the colonoscopy. Yesterday I was only allowed fluids and then come 5pm I had to drink the 'prep'. Now I'd be lying if I said the 'prep' was nice, it isn't - in all honesty by the time you have taken the 3 litres (mixed with water) it is pretty disgusting. The object of the 'prep' is to 'empty' your bowels. Not pleasant but hey if doing this is going to help the doctors find any pre-cancerous polps I have in my bowel then Im happy to go through it. After I only had to have this done every 3 years - its now 5 yearly.

So I had my preparation, it wasn't pleasant and I had my colonoscopy, which incidentally is really not that bad compared to the preparation., No its not great but hey there's bowel cancer in my family - so I think it's a small price to pay in order for the doctors to detect any signs I have early and treat it - so I don't have to die of bowel cancer as my grand mother did and my grand father.

So if you have cancer in your family, whatever type of cancer that be; and they recommend testing or 'screening' you for it.

There are many ways of reducing your chances of getting cancer, which I recommend you look into, especially if its any type of cancer runs in the family, but one way is screening, whether that be colonoscopy, mammogram etc..

I would strongly recommend you opt to be screened. It is far better to face the fear....get screened than to run from it and then find out when its possibly too late that you have cancer.

Start 2010 Off Right With a Colon Cancer Screening

2010-01-10T02:52:00.000-08:00

Vigilance is the key to maintaining good health, and if you are over the age of 50, or turn 50 this year, it's important to consider an appointment for a colonoscopy. Obtaining a colon cancer screening when you enter the age of highest risk is essential in ensuring you maintain good health for years to come. Colon and colorectal cancer, when diagnosed in its earliest stages, can be treatable and patients can enjoy a high rate of survival. However, if you do not allow a gastroenterologist to give you a clean bill of health you could do your body more harm than good.

With 2010 still in its infancy, why not make your first health resolution a trip to your local gastroenterology clinic? While a colonoscopy is a slightly invasive procedure, it will provide you with some peace of mind and fascinating insight into the current state of your health. Outwardly, you may feel and look fine, but should a scope pick up on anomalies in your large intestine you just may find it necessary to take measures to keep your healthy on all counts.

When you meet your doctor to plan your procedure, you can expect some instructions on preparing for your colon screening. It's important to know exactly when to take the GoLytely solution and when to stop eating and drinking before you have your colonoscopy done. In order for your gastroenterologist to gain a clear picture of your colon's status, it must be as clear as possible. GoLytely, often prescribed for the process, works to clean out your colon. It may not be a pleasant tasting way to begin your new year, but once you receive the thumbs up from your doctor that you are fine, you likely won't mind so much!

Begin 2010 right. Consult with your doctor about a colonoscopy screening.

What Colon Cancer Symptoms Are Found During Screening?

2010-01-10T02:47:00.000-08:00

Colon cancer is a disease characterized by the uncontrolled division of abnormal cells in the colon and the formation of tumors from these cells. Despite the presence of polyps in the human large intestine, presentation of colon cancer symptoms at an early stage is very low. In some cases, it may not even manifest symptoms. Today, colon cancer is the second leading malignancy in the United States and the fourth worldwide. The combination of these facts gives rise to the importance of colon screening methods aimed at determining early stages of colon cancer.

There are a number of screening methods available for colon cancer detection. These tests are done alone or in combination with other tests in order to distinguish colon cancer from other intestinal diseases. Hereunder is a list of these screening and detection procedures.

Digital Rectal Examination

A routine part of physical examination, digital rectal examination (DRE) examines the lower portion of the rectum for tumor and polyp growth. This test is done using a lubricated gloved finger inserted inside the rectum to feel for anomalous growths. This test is also capable in ascertaining prostate cancer in men.

Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)

The American Cancer Society recommends FOBT to be done yearly in combination with sigmoidoscopy. FOBT is statistically noted as being 24% effective in finding colorectal cancer by itself. There are currently two types of fecal occult blood test, these are the Guaiac FOBT and the Immunochemical FOBT. The Guaiac FOBT utilizes the chemical, guaiac, to detect the presence blood protein hemoglobin in fecal samples by checking for traces of Heme. Heme is an iron-containing component of hemoglobin. Immunochemical FOBT uses antibodies to check stools for human hemoglobin. According to studies, FOBT when performed annually reduces colorectal deaths by about 15 - 35%.

Sigmoidoscopy

Sigmoidoscopy is a test wherein a lighted instrument, the sigmoidoscope, is inserted into the rectum and lower colon to examine the area. Precancerous, cancerous and other abnormal growths can be detected during this test, and these growths can be removed and biopsied. Statistics show that when done in conjunction with FOBT, the sigmoidoscopy helps in detecting about 76% of colon tumor growths among individuals in the 50s-80s age range.

Colonoscopy

A colonoscope is a lighted instrument used to examine the colon and rectal area for abnormal growths. During a colonoscopy, abnormal polyps or growths can be traced, removed and biopsied. Colonoscopy can examine areas missed by a sigmoidoscope mainly due to its longer reach. Before colonscopy is performed a thorough cleansing of the colon is carried out and patients are sedated.

Double Contract Barium Enema (DCBE)

In DCBE, air is introduced into the colon and the patient is given an enema filled with barium solution to help outline the colon for an array of x-rays. In conjunction with colonoscopy, DCBE helps in detecting about 30-50 percent of colorectal cancer cases. However, DCBE may miss smaller polyps according to research.

Computerized Tomographic Colonoscopy

As called Virtual Colonoscopy, the test is accomplished with the use of a special x-ray equipment to generate photographs of the colon and rectum at different angles. These photographs are then assembled by a computer to produces an image detailing the large intestine and showing polyp growth and other abnormalities. Like standard colonoscopy, it is necessary to perform a thorough cleansing of the colon. However, since this test is less invasive, it is less discomforting and does not require sedation.

Despite the presence of these tests, it was reported that about 44% of adults within the 50s-80s age group have undergone routine screening raising colorectal cancer incidence. Let us not be afraid to undergo cancer screening, we must realize that early detection is tantamount to survival from cancer.

For further reading about colon cancer detection, treatments, and symptoms read some of material that I have published.

Don't Fall Victim to Colon Cancer, Identify the Early Warning Signs and Find out about Symptoms and Treatment Options Today. Visit Symptoms-of-Cancer.com today and find more information about how to identify Colon Cancer Symptoms

Colon and Liver Cancer - 2 Deadly But Preventable Diseases

2010-01-08T02:50:00.000-08:00

The point of this article is not to discuss which of these two cancers are more dangerous, but in fact to build awareness of these two diseases, so that we as adults can make the necessary precautions by living a healthy life and lessening the chances of developing either or both of these two life-threatening illnesses. The first part of the discussion will concentrate on a leading cause of cancer deaths, having a cancerous liver.

Liver Cancer

As the name suggests, liver cancer is a disease in which a class of cells show uncontrolled abnormal growth in the liver, often times leading to death if there is no early detection to start the treatment process. There are two types of cancer of the liver. These are a primary liver cancer and a secondary liver cancer. Simply put, the primary liver cancer originates in the cells of the liver while with the secondary cancerous liver, the cancer developed in another part of the body, spreading to the liver, infecting its walls and causing turmoil. (Late stage colon cancer, for instance). Now this is a serious condition as the liver is a vital organ and a part of the digestive system. This process cannot take place properly if the liver is not in good working condition. The liver has many jobs within this process including decomposing red blood cells, storing glycogen, detoxification, hormone production as well as producing urea and amino acids, which are essentially the building blocks of the body.

All in all, this can be prevented by reducing one's intake of alcohol, even to nil if possible. The use of illegal drugs via injections, having unprotected sex which may cause Hepatitis C and smoking are also not recommended. Undeniably, if you start to experience symptoms of abdominal enlargement, loss of appetite, vomiting, drastic unintentional weight loss, tiredness and jaundice then visit a doctor ASAP! Now let us take a look at colon cancer.

Colon Cancer

Cancer of the colon is a disease that results in abnormal growths on the inner linings of the colon. The colon is the tube at the end of our digestive system which is more commonly known as comprising of the large intestine. It is needed in the digestive and excretion process to store foods that will be expelled from the human body. Common symptoms include constipation, diarrhea, presence of blood in your stools, vomiting, abdominal pain, a black stool, weight loss and an overall loss of appetite. All things considered, there a few treatment options available for colon cancer including surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. With surgery, the tumor and surrounding lymph nodes are removed; with chemotherapy, medications are administered to kill microscopic cancer cells (in conjunction with the surgery) while radiation therapy given before or after the operation, seeks to particularize the cancer to the rectum.

All in all, we should all try to maintain a healthy lifestyle, having an intake of the right foods and liquids while refraining from harmful substances such as cigarettes and alcohol in excess. Be proactive in taking care of your colon and liver today and you will live a much longer life!

Colon Cancer - How to Reduce the Risk

2010-01-05T02:49:00.000-08:00

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women in the US. According to the American Cancer Society's most recent estimates, there were over 108,000 cases of colon cancer and almost 41,000 cases of rectal cancer in 2009, causing almost 50,000 deaths.

Overall, the lifetime risk for developing colorectal cancer is about 5.3% or 1 in 19. Men are slightly more likely to have it than women.

According to a study from the December 2009 issue of International Journal of Cancer, if you want to reduce your risk of colon cancer you need to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables and drink more tea and red wine. The authors followed a group of 120,852 men and women who were 55-69 years old at the beginning of the study. Every participant filled out detailed dietary questionnaires, indicating how much of different types of foods and beverages they consumed. The reason for the study was to see if there was a link between diet and cancer and also whether certain types of food could reduce cancer risk.

This study lasted about 13 years, during which time,1,444 men and 1,041 women developed colon or rectal cancer.

After analyzing the diet of people with and without cancer, the researchers found that higher flavonoids and catechins intake was associated with a reduced incidence of rectal and colon cancer.

Flavonoids, also called bioflavonoids, include many different substances that are sometimes collectively referred to as Vitamin P. They are found in large amounts in plants, such as fruits and vegetables. They are also known by another name - phyto-nutrients. Literally hundreds of these have been identified and many more are still being discovered.

Catechins are types of bioflavonoids that have a slightly different chemical structure.

All bioflavonoids have anti-oxidant activity, which means that they have the ability to neutralize dangerous free radicals that are generated by the body as a result of normal metabolic activity. They also have general health-enhancing and anti-cancer activity.

All fruits and vegetables have a variety of bioflavonoids. Tea, grapes, red wine, dark chocolate are also very rich in catechins and other bioflavonoids. Red wine has a lot of resveratrol, a bioflavonoid that has been linked to reduced cancer risk, plus many other important substances.

So the lesson is to include fresh fruits, vegetables, berries and other plant-based foods in your diet. It is not only good for preventing cancer, but also for reducing the risk of other diseases, including heart disease.

Michael Teplitsky, MD has been practicing alternative and holistic medicine for over 20 years. He has treated thousands of patients using nutrition and nutritional supplements. His book Nutrition and Your Health explains complex and confusing nutritional concepts in an easy to understand layman language. Please visit the http://www.CommonSenseHealthGuide.com to get the book, a Free Report 7 Health Myths That Can Hurt You, health news, and other valuable information.

The Truth About Breast Cancer and Mastectomies

2009-10-28T03:59:00.000-07:00

While breast cancer may be on the rise and is currently ranked as one of the most common and potentially deadly forms of cancer in the United States, many people are still not aware of what their procedure options are and what those procedures may entail. Understanding the procedures often employed in the treatment of breast cancer is critical to overcoming and recovering from this difficult condition.

One of the most widely recognized procedures used in the treatment of breast cancer is the mastectomy. This procedure is a surgery in which one or both of the breasts are removed from the body as a means of eliminating cancerous cells and tumors.

In terms of the amount of mastectomy procedures done, roughly 77% of all women who get cancer in Europe will have a mastectomy performed. This number is compared to only 56% of women in the United States who will undergo a mastectomy procedure as a treatment method for cancer.

While breast cancer is a highly treatable form of cancer with a very high rate of successful diagnosis and treatment, it's remains to be a deadly condition. Early detection is the best way to ensure the highest odds of successful treatment, yet many people do not regularly check themselves for the signs of breast cancer.

In a study performed in 2004, roughly 216,000 people were diagnosed with breast cancer. Of those people, 40,000 were fatal. Depending on the treatment used and the early detection, the successful survival rate of this rype of cancer varies widely from 98% to 10%. The variables involved in the treatment of cancer can sway the odds in extreme ways.

While it is true that cancer of the breast may occur in both men and women, it is statistically over 100 times more likely to be diagnosed in women than men. For this reason, constant and thorough self-examinations are critical to early detection.

The most effective way to detect and treat breast cancer is to begin by understand the treatment options available and to give yourself routine self-examinations on a regular basis. The earlier that cancer is detected the more likely and more varied the effective treatment options will be.

Breast cancer is a very serious and potentially deadly condition that can manifest in anyone. Plan ahead and check yourself out often so you don't become one of the many breast cancer patients to suffer at the hands of a late diagnosis. There's no reason to become part of a statistic. You can find many different mastectomy bras online, most of which will be covered by mastectomy medicaid.

Breast Cancer Survival Rates - What is This Rate All About?

2009-10-21T04:01:00.000-07:00

Survival rates of breast cancer patients alter and it would depend upon the phase of the cancer you are presently going through. What is this rate all about? You will be able to distinguish the breast cancer survival rates in a lot of methods such as:

1. Time - abreast of diagnosing, a patient is rendered 5-10 years to live on.
2. Return - there are moment when return of the cancer happens after the cancer cells were previously removed.
3. Dying risk as equated to others with the identical health precondition.

Survival rate is normally classified established upon the breast cancer phases. Phase '0' signifies that the cancer is even so noninvasive. The cancerous cells could just be detected in the walls of the swelling or mass within the breast.

As you progress to Stage 1, the tumor gets already developed approximately 1 inch long and it represents to be regarded fast-growing. Phase 2A occurs as the tumor is already 1 to 2 inches extended.

The phase 2B relates to tumors approximately 1 inch stressed just a few of the secondary lymph nodes are already stricken. As the tumor extends to preceding 2 inches and has already affected the lymph nodes, it is already classed as phase 3A of cancer; and as the tumor encroaches upon the skin of the breasts, the breast cancer is in phase 3B. The elevated breast cancer is categorized below phase 4 wherein additional organs of the physical structure are already contaminated with the cancer cells.

The assorted phases could as well be split up into the early on phase (0 to 2A), the future phase (2B to 3A and B), and the upgraded phase (phase 4). The treatment program is normally established upon the phase of the breast cancer.

Nowadays, the survival rates are 86% (for the 5-year time period after diagnosing) and 76% (for the 10-year time period). Cancer patients without metastatic holds a survival rate of 96% when those with metastatic has got a rate of 21%. The percent is supported upon the 5-year time period after diagnosing.

There are as well accomplished breast survival rates for every phase of breast cancer inside the 5-year time period. The accompanying are the rates: phase 0 - 100%, phase 1 is 100%, phase 2A is 92%, phase 2B is 81%, phase 3A is 67%, phase 3B is 54%, and phase 4 is 20%.

Insuring Against Breast Cancer and Problems With Breasts With Homeopathic Remedies

2009-10-18T03:59:00.000-07:00

The best insurance against breast is regular self examination. Undress to the waist and stand in front of a mirror. Look for differences in the breasts when you lean forward, lift breasts upward and stretch your arms above head then lower and place them on your hips. Then re-examine looking for differences in hang or swing and observe areas of dimpling and flattening. Then lie in bath or bed and feel each breast for differences. Check the nipples for discharge or inversion. Is there is a change you may have a breast abscess or infection in the breast.

Instead of rushing to a medical doctor for a mammogram try homeopathy self help first:

To be taken every hour for up to ten doses:

· An abscess is brewing with hardening of breast tissue and pain with slightest movement. Bryonia 6C

· Symptoms as above with red streaks on affected breast. Belladonna 6C

· Pain localized, extremely tender, irritability. Hepar Sulph 6C

· Armpit glands swollen, looking pale and feeling shivery. Phytolacca 6C

· Nipple cracked and discharging pus, general exhaustion. Silicia 6C

At first sign of pain bathe the breast in hot water. For a sore nipple apply Calendela ointment. Specific breast treatments are outlined in homeopathic books and literature. Homeopathy remedies are effective in many cases and are completely safe. Homeopathy has no side effects. It has been in service for more than 200 years.

The fear of breast cancer is on the mind of every woman and I have read about nutritional and holistic cures that are more effective than chemotherapy. One in particular comes from Brazil where a simple mixture of baking soda and maple syrup cured 80 of 100 breast cancer patients. Look for: Winning the War on Cancer, Mark Allen Sircus AC, OMD

Are You at Risk For Breast Cancer? Here is How to Tell

2009-10-15T03:57:00.000-07:00

To determine the answer to question, you need to evaluate your risk factors. Risk factors come in two different types those that you can change (and should as soon as possible) and those that you cannot.

Eight Risk Factors That You Cannot Change

1. Being female
2. Aging
3. Having a blood relative that has had cancer (specifically breast)
4. Race
5. Whether you or your mother had treatment with DES (this drug was given between 1940 and 1960 to pregnant women to lower their chances of miscarriage).
6. Any exposure to radiation in the chest area
7. Menstrual history - if you have started your periods before that age of 12 or went through menopause early (before the age of 50).
8. Having no children or had a child after the age of 30

Six Risk Factors That You CAN change

So, you want to reduce your chance of getting breast cancer. Change those factors that you can by:

1. Lose weight
2. Exercise
3. When you have a child, breastfeed them.
4. Reduce or eliminate alcohol intake
5. Use methods of birth control that do not include any kind of hormones
6. Discus the risks vs. the benefits of hormone replacement therapy. There may be alternatives that do not involve any kind of hormones.

Breast Cancer Facts

Each year more than 186,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer and nearly 25% of them will die from it.

Each year 1,800 men are diagnosed with breast cancer and nearly 21% of them will die from it. So men, it is important that you examine your breasts also.

If detected early, 95% of breast cancer is curable.

Number One

The number one thing you can do to detect breast cancer early is to do monthly breast self-exams. This exam is done in the privacy of your own home and more importantly in today's economic environment is that it is FREE!

How to Defend Yourself Against Breast Cancer

2009-10-12T03:56:00.000-07:00

Early detection is so far the best defense against breast cancer attack. The reason is not far-fetched as early detection enhances timely treatment of infection. This can be done through regular breast examination.

These days, a lot of information are found in different publications on breast self examination. Women are advised to make use of information from health care professional This notwithstanding, the following guidelines are in agreement with the American Cancer Society's recommendations.

1. By getting a mammogram done annually if you are over 40 years of age.

2. Through proper annual clinical breast examination (CBE) by a health care professional if you are over 40 years of age - preferably around the time that you receive your mammogram.

3. By having a CBE done once every three years if you are 20 to 39 years of age.

4. Conducting monthly breast self-exam if you are over 20 years of age.

5. Reducing cigarette intake - according to research statistics, nearly 50 percent of women are sensitive to the carcinogens in tobacco, which implies more risks of developing breast cancer.

6. Increasing the amount of fresh fruits and vegetables intake: This is because they contain antioxidant vitamins and other nutrients that can help in cancer prevention.

7. Eating foods high in phytoestrogen, a chemical found in soy products, flaxseed and whole grains.

8. Reducing alcohol intake: High alcohol intake has been statistically linked to an increase in the risk of breast cancer.

9. By exercising regularly and maintaining a normal body weight: These two factors help in breast cancer prevention.

Natural Treatment For Breast Cancer - Is it Effective?

2009-10-08T03:55:00.000-07:00

Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death for women. It occupies the 2nd slot in the most common cancer cause of death in the US. This is why there is every need in utilizing every treatment for breast cancer.

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is the abnormality of the cells found in the breasts. A majority of cases of breast cancer are diagnosed through a mammogram where there are lumps or sudden abnormalities occurring in the breast tissues.

Symptoms of breast cancer

The symptoms of breast cancer are characterized by changes of the nipples and how it feels. There can also be a lump growth in and near the breast or in the underarm.

The physical look of the nipple also changes. The nipple might turn inward. There is also a sudden change in the size and shape of the breasts. The breast may also look red, swollen and pitted and may eventually look like the skin of an orange

The diagnosis of breast cancer is done through a couple of clinical examinations. People diagnosed with this condition can choose to undergo chemotherapy, hormone therapy, radiation therapy and biological therapy sessions.

The treatment greatly depends on how severe the condition is. You should also be prepared that these treatments can greatly affect your current lifestyle. These treatments can also change your physical appearance as these may cause side effects such as hair loss and weight loss.

Natural treatment for breast diseases can also be used to reduce the side effects of medications. Herbal remedies are your best ally in strengthening your immune system and over all health condition against the adverse effects of chemotherapy sessions.

However, it is also important to inform your doctor about your decision to include herbal remedies for your treatment as the use of herbs can clash with the medication you are taking.

Essiac is an herb that has been researched for its potential in treating cancer cells. Many experts believe that with ample studies, they will be able to find out how Essiac can help women suffering from breast cancer.
Fish Oil has also been given careful consideration. Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids that are essential in the whole systemic functioning of our body. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the risks of inflammations caused by cancer.

Chinese Ginseng is an herb that can help normalize our hormones, and can restore harmony and equilibrium in our body. Astralagus is another herb that can up the defenses of your immune system during the times that your chemotherapy sessions are taking its toll on your immune system.

It has been hypothesized that one factor that triggers breast diseases is the imbalance in estrogen and progesterone level of a person. To decrease your risk of cancer, try taking a natural remedy that is especially designed in promoting stronger immune system and maintaining hormonal balance and harmony in your body.

How to Detect a Lump in Your Breast That Could Be Cancer

2009-10-02T03:58:00.000-07:00

About 25% of all Americans (and not all of them are women) diagnosed with breast cancer will die of it.

But with early detection, nearly 95% of all cases of breast cancer can be cured. The best early detection method of breast cancer is one that does not cost anything - a monthly breast self-exam.

The best way to remember to do your exam monthly is to do it about three or so days after your period ends. If you do not have regular cycles or are post-menopausal - pick a date on the calendar and write it down each and every month (the first day of the month is a good choice).

There are two types of exam you can do on your breasts. The first is visual and the second is tactile (or by touch).

Visual Exam

Stand in front of a mirror with your hands laced together behind your head. Look for any changes in size, any signs of puckering, scaly skin, rash, nipple discharge, or reddened spots.

It is important to know what is normal for you. Breasts may be uneven in size normally for you. But if they are normally even in size and now they are not, this is a change that you should make note of (and an appointment with your health care provider).

Still standing in front of the mirror, change positions to your hands at your sides. Inspect your breasts again.

And lastly, change to the final position (for in front of the mirror) - bend forward at the waist with your hands on your hips. Look again in the mirror for anything unusual. Then let your hands hang loosely at your sides. Look again the mirror.

Tactile Exam

It is important to not be shy about this part and to know what is normal for you. The object of this exam is to find any changes. That is why it is so important to perform this step every month.

This step can be done either lying down or standing in the shower (with soap and water on your breasts).

In the tactile exam you are feeling for any lumps, tenderness, or thickening. If you find any of these, you should make an appointment with your health care provider. Most lumps are not cancer and you should not be afraid. You never be afraid of bringing any concerns to your doctor.

There are four areas that you need to palpate. They are the:

1. Breast itself 2. The underarm area 3. The area between the underarm and breast 4. The area above the breast to the collarbone

There are three different patterns for palpation:

1. Spiral 2. Pie - shaped 3. Up and down

Spiral is a series of concentric circles. You begin in the area around the nipple and gradually move outward in small circles gradually becoming larger circles.

Pie - shaped is to divide your breast into pie shapes beginning at the nipple. Examining each wedge then moving to the next.

Up and down is using a zigzag pattern going up and then down the next section.

Conclusion

This may the most important exam of your life. And in today's current economic climate, it is nice to know that it is FREE. So do not neglect this monthly breast self-exam.

Alternative Cancer Treatment - Breast Cancer's and Success With Alternative Therapies

2009-09-28T03:54:00.000-07:00

If you are angry or sad because you, someone you know has cancer, or has died from cancer, you are right to feel this way.

I'll bet you think there is nothing we can do about this but just lye down and take it. Traditional therapy and
treatments just may or may not work and you are at the mercy of the physicians opinion of what drugs you should take while worrying if your body will respond.

There is another way though. If you are like most people, you will probably find it hard to believe that the use of alternative natural therapies, substances or elements could have such a far-reaching and broad spectrum efficacy when it comes to curing diseases. Because of the success rates it will be hard for most people to wrap their brains around it. The simple concepts are most often the powerful ones and usually the ones most ignored.

Some of these simple inexpensive therapy can be self-administered at home with successful results.

An estimated 15,000 European medical doctors, naturopaths, and homeopaths have administered natural powerful alternative therapies to over 10 million people over the past 70 years to treat over 50 different diseases.

Natural alternative therapies are the simple and organic approach to healing disease and maintaining health and are sometimes pushed aside by the pharmaceutical companies.

For all the new drugs that are "discovered" there is more cancer and disease in our world than there has ever been before. Interesting isn't it? Why is it that alternative cancer treatments are not the first treatments offered?

Most alternative methods are safe, inexpensive and powerful healing modalities - and when used properly and can potentially render almost all pharmaceutical drugs and medical treatments obsolete.

Having an alternative cancer treatment within your knowledge base, now you have the option available within your close reach before resorting to harmful drugs that can potentially make cancer situations worse.

Learn More Click Here!

Breast Mammograms May Mean Over - Diagnosis of Breast Cancer

2009-09-26T04:00:00.000-07:00

Today breast cancer is the second leading cause of death in women, after lung cancer. As a result, yearly breast mammograms have become common for women over 40, or anyone at high risk of developing this dangerous, disfiguring disease.

Now that programs like this are in place, experts had expected that the number of cases of advanced breast cancer would drop off, but that's not happening.

Instead the incidence of breast cancer seems to have gone up since widespread screening became part of our yearly exams. Why?

Women know that early detection of breast cancer can save lives, but that doesn't make going for that yearly mammogram any less nerve wracking or uncomfortable.

We endure the testing because we've been told we need to find lumps when they're too small to feel or bring symptoms, before they have a chance to grow and cause trouble.

But do all cancers cause problems?

Late last year a large Norwegian study of mammography screening for breast cancer found that some invasive cancers might spontaneously regress over time, leaving no sign that they were ever present in a woman's body.

Makes you wonder, now that we can screen for it, if this type of cancer isn't over diagnosed or over treated.

This latest BMJ report citing an over-diagnosis rate for invasive breast cancer of 35% could truly have you re-thinking that yearly mammogram.

Besides this type of cancer, over-diagnosis has also been mentioned for cancer of the prostate as well as neuroblastoma, melanoma, thyroid cancer and lung cancer.

The latest work on over-diagnosis comes from researchers out of the Nordic Cochrane Centre in Copenhagen.

The team looked at the findings of studies that spanned a 14-year period. 7 years before public mammography screenings were available, and 7 years after government run mammography-screening programs were in place in five different countries (United Kingdom, Canada, New South Wales, Australia, Manitoba, Sweden and areas in Norway)

They found an over-diagnosis rate of 52% for all cancers, 35% for invasive breast cancer.

The data shows a jump in breast cancer incidence just after the screening programs were put in place.

What this work suggests, as did the Norwegian study before it, that perhaps not all cancers need to be treated, some might grow too slowly to affect a patient and others may resolve on their own.

It's important to know that no doctor or current screening technique can tell the difference between a cancer that's dangerous and one that might not be.

In a BMJ editorial that's published along with the research, professor of medicine Dr. H. Gilbert Welch of the Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Research recognizes the problem of over-diagnosis, understanding the trauma and terror a woman endures after being given such news by her doctor.

Surgery and chemotherapy bring their own set of difficulties that are physically demanding and emotionally draining, and a terrible trial for patients and families. Especially those whose cancers might not have needed to be treated at all.

While this latest study is still not an excuse, or recommendation, to put off your yearly mammogram, it does raise some rather nagging questions.

Until we know more, each woman has to decide for herself whether to continue with yearly breast mammograms, but it is clear that screening has let us detect earlier cancers and start treatment earlier.

Step Up to Prevent Breast Cancer

2009-09-25T03:53:00.000-07:00

Breast cancer prevention works to help raise viable awareness about this critical issue. It therefore helps the individual live with practices that will help them develop a more positive outlook towards life. Risk factors that affect the rate of breast cancer are depreciated by the education of people who are most at risk of contracting the disease. Having tested positive, however, a number of initiatives have been formed which carefully administrate drugs that help in diminishing the spread of the cancer.

A lot of your daily actions, however, can be affected in order to prevent the spread of the breast cancer. These include limiting your alcohol intake and planning a healthier diet. This position also dictates that you constantly watch your weight since it may result in your body's immunity being compromised by the cancerous cells. Once you eliminate the fatty cells from your body, the amount of estrogen produced by them is reduced therefore eliminating one factor that positively influences a vector environment.

Physical activity may go a long way in keeping your body in shape. Such activity helps give you a steady heartbeat and in the end will result in stronger bones. With a more sedentary past, one may start with exercises such as jogging and aerobics. In the process, they could pick up on the rest of the more strenuous exercises.

Non hormonal therapy is also a nice way to experience the effect of reduced cancer agents. You should also avoid constant use of toxic agents. If at all it is necessary to have such contact frequently take as much precaution as can be afforded. Pesticides in most cases contain chemicals that have been studied to cause cancer; therefore you can reduce using such agents. A better alternative is to employ the services of an experienced exterminator.

Leukemia Treatment Failure - Are There Alternatives?

2009-09-24T23:07:00.000-07:00

I just read the story of a young man in England who is dying of leukemia. He has been through chemotherapy and radiation therapy twice. He has also had a bone marrow transplant. He has suffered through the side effects of the new bone marrow attacking his body. He has been on steroids and other drugs.

His cancer returned despite all of the treatment. He lost his girlfriend, he lost his job and he lost his flat and moved in with his parents. He is dying. He really believes that he will die.

I want to be very respectful and gentle because dying is a serious topic. However, what if there were alternatives that may help? I cannot speak for you, but it seems to me that if modern mainstream medicine failed me, I would turn to alternative medicine.

What about the work of Renee Caisse and her Essiac formula? What about the work of a German biochemist named Johanna Budwig? What about the excellent book: How To Fight Cancer and Win?

What about the work of Bernie Siegal - a cancer surgeon who found another way? There are people who have defeated cancer.

Again, I don't mean to make light of a situation as serious as cancer or leukemia. But, is it prudent to except the fact that one is incurable because a few doctors following the protocals of allopathic medicine thought there was no hope? Stories abound of people who have successfully defeated their cancer or have been in remission so long that you might as well say they won the fight.

Here are some more things to explore: What about juicing wheat grass and vegetables. What about macrobiotic diets. What about...? The list is long.

Since cancer is a serious disease, don't take any chances. What I wrote here was for information and entertainment only. I certainly do not intend to provide advice, diagnosis or treatment suggestions for cancer. If you have or think you have any type of health condition at all, visit your doctor for advice, diagnosis and treatment. The USFDA certainly hasn't evaluated any of the thoughts in this article, nor are they likely to if they continue to follow the trend of their history. Natural treatments are often ignored and not scientifically investigated. There is no one paying for such research.

When all else fails, what do you have to lose by trying? Next, learn more about natural cancer treatments through the links below.

Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma - What Increases Your Risk?

2009-09-22T23:06:00.000-07:00

Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) is diverse group of cancers of lymphatic system which is part of human immune system. The lymphatic system includes lymph vessels, lymph nodes, lymph, tonsils, thymus and spleen. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is most commonly detected in older adults in the age groups of 60s and 70s.

There are no known causes for development of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma however medical experts believe that disorders in immune system and older age may increase your chance of having the disease. Research is going on all the time to try to find out other causes that led to the development of this disease.

The following risk factors may increase your chance of acquiring this disease:

Being Male: Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is more common in males than in women.

Age: Though NHL can occur at any age but risk increases as ones age progresses. It is most commonly found in people above 60 years of age.

Past cancer treatment: Past cancer treatment can affect your risk of NHL two-fold. Some chemotherapy drugs can increase your risk of getting NHL 10 to 15 years after treatment. Having radiotherapy in the past also increases your risk of acquiring NHL.

Weakened immune system: NHL is most commonly found in those people whose immune system does not work properly. These include HIV and AIDS patients. It also occurs among those people who take medicines that impair the immune system following an organ transplant.

Viral infection: Infection with virus called 'Human T cell Lymphoma virus 1 (HTLV1), hepatitis's C, and Epstein-Barr Virus increase the risk of developing NHL.

Bacterial infection: The bacteria called "Helicobacter pylori" increases the risk of Lymphoma called MALT (mucosa associated lymphoid tissue) lymphoma. This type of lymphoma is usually located in stomach lining.

Environmental Exposure: Exposure to insecticide and pesticide, solvents, rubber processing, asbestos, arsenic, nuclear waste and fertilizers increases the risk of developing NHL.

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Defeated With PH Balance and Nutritional Therapy

2009-09-20T23:05:00.000-07:00

As a person diagnosed with CLL (chronic lymphocytic leukemia) since 2001, I've had my eyes trained on Google Alerts and on the web in general, regularly looking for breakthroughs, both conventionally and in the alternative medicine arena. Many people who are diagnosed with CLL are told to hold off on any treatment, as the disease often progresses slowly, and any improvement with treatment is not permanent. Worse yet, the course and aggressiveness of the disease can change at any time. Patients are told to "watch and wait." This is not a happy way to live.

No role models. The sad truth is that, until this past January 2009, I could find no reference (not one) of any person who was cured of CLL through any kind of traditional medical -- or alternative -- therapy. The only exception are those who have been cured by way of a bone marrow transplant (BMT). Unfortunately, many people do not survive the procedure. It is extremely risky. Worse yet, a patient can survive the BMT and still have CLL, or develop CLL again at a later date.

The five-year time-line. Despite all the research and trials, there is still no conventionally-sanctioned therapy (chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, etc.), short of BMT, that can effect a cure. Doctors give patients the hope for a complete remission of five years with some of the available therapies. Not all patients achieve complete remission in the first round of chemotherapy. And the chance of success, measured by five-year survival, decreases with each new form of conventional therapy. Not an encouraging picture. This situation has been evident to me since 2001, when I was forty-six and first diagnosed. Who wants to hear about a five-year life plan when you're forty-six? Not me! While there have been some promising conventional "breakthroughs," the survival rate remains pretty much the same today.

The search for an alternative. My search for an alternative treatment, or treatment protocol, has been equally difficult. I have been able to find testimony on the web of leukemia patients who have become cancer-free (acute myelogenous leukemia or acute lymphocytic leukemia), but no such luck for CLL. At best, there were stories of people who had held off their CLL with the controversial laetrile (apricot seed extract). But no one with CLL had become cancer free. I was discouraged, but I never gave up the search, or my attempt to discover a blueprint to good health.

The 2009 breakthrough. In January of this year, my Google Alerts revealed an article written by Steve Freier, a man with CLL who recovered to full cancer-free health. He regained his health by having his root canals removed and also by taking coral calcium. Because of his experience, I am in the process now of having all my mercury amalgams replaced with safer porcelain fillings. To find information about his recovery, type "Steve Freier" and "CLL" into Google.

Breakthrough #2. In April 2009, while searching for information about infrared saunas and its effect on leukemia, my husband came across this website: http://www.CLLDefeated.com. It is the story of Hessel Baartse, of Adelaide, Australia. He has totally defeated his CLL by means of removing his root canals and mercury amalgams, and by drastically altering his diet and supplementation, with a concentration on restoring his pH levels to a healthy balance. He credits his dentist, www.ericdavisdental.com for his complete recovery.

There are finally role models for CLL recovery. What used to be a complete mystery now is a challenge with a blueprint for success. There are now at least two cases of men who have beat the odds and defeated their CLL by means of mercury amalgam and root canal removal, nutritional therapy, and pH balance. The further good news is that this program is likely a blueprint to health for people with many other chronic health issues, including cancers.

The future. Because of the Internet and the speed with which we can share information, more people will be able to find a way to recover their good health through alternative means.

Acute Myeloid Leukemia

2009-09-20T23:04:00.000-07:00

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a cancer and is one of many illnesses that occur with the exposure of benzene. Like other kinds of leukemia, it develops in the bone marrow spreads to the blood, lymph nodes, organs, the nervous system and other body parts. If it is not detected early enough, AML can be fatal within a few months.

Benzene Exposure

Exposure to benzene for a long period is a known risk factor. This carcinogen is a solvent used in industries that create drugs, rubber, dyes, plastics and other things. People working in these industries have a higher risk of developing AML.

Groundwater is another place where exposure to benzene can occur. This can happen near petroleum plants and gas stations when a leak happens or waste products were not disposed as it should be. Then these and other dangerous chemicals may soak into the groundwater and residents close by may consume these chemical

An individual who was exposed to this carcinogen for a long period and then developed acute myeloid leukemia may be allowed to seek compensation for the damages suffered. If you think your illness was caused by being exposed to benzene, contact a lawyer.

Additional Risk Factors

More factors increase the risk of acute myeloid leukemia consisting of:

Smoking
Some chemotherapy drugs, especially if combined with radiation therapy
Some illnesses of the blood includes myelodysplastic syndrome, which damages the development of blood cells and may grow into leukemia

Common and Specific Symptoms

Common symptoms of this leukemia are likely to be similar to conditions that are not as severe. These symptoms may include:

Fever
Tiredness
Lack of appetite or weight loss

More specific symptoms include:

Anemia and its related symptoms (lightheadedness, weakness, headache)
Chronic infections
Bone/joint pain
Abdominal inflammation
Swelling, pain, bleeding of the gums
Rash (spottiness or bumps) on the skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

It is important that acute myeloid leukemia be diagnosed early and treated as soon as it is diagnosed for a positive result. In diagnosing this leukemia, doctors will need a complete medical history about the patient. A doctor will be able to tell if the patient was exposed to any risk factors such as benzene. A series of tests will be run including blood tests, lab tests and other related tests. If the illness was found in any tests, treatment plans will be set, for example:

Chemotherapy
Operation
Radiation treatment
Bone marrow transplant
Clinical trials

Other treatments a doctor may suggest to relieve an individual's pain is acupuncture, massage therapy, yoga, etc.

Diagnosed with AML?

Contact a lawyer if you were diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia because of being exposed to benzene for a long period. Medical lawyers are experienced in these types of cases. They will evaluate your case at no cost and they will advise you of your legal options. You may be entitled to money damages for the medical costs and other associated expenses due to your condition.

Did We Give Our Child Cancer?

2009-09-18T23:03:00.000-07:00

PART 1: The worst day of my life:

I knew that it could be serious when our doctor called and said he'd made an appointment for our 4 year old daughter Laura, at the Children's ward of a major hospital 50 miles away.

We packed up the car and started out. Not much was being said between my wife an I. It was a dreary day, overcast with a little light rain. As we drove down the highway, I remember hoping for some sort of a sign .... maybe the clouds would suddenly separate and the sun would break through and shine down on us ... maybe a car would drive by and the people inside would look over and give us a friendly smile ... anything that would assure me that someone from above was telling me everything was going to be OK. But there were no signs.

We managed to find the hemoc/oncology unit with little trouble. My initial reaction as we entered the room was that of horror, seeing all those precious young children in such poor health. I said to myself "why are we here ? My daughter can't be this sick." Girls and boys, both walking very slowly, some with limps, no hair on their heads, some with scars, others pulling an IV along with them. Was this a preview of what my daughter will soon look like?

After a lengthy wait, it was time for Laura's test - a spinal tap. My wife held her in her lap as the drugs were administered .... it was only 3 or 4 seconds before my daughters eyes rolled back in her head and her body went limp. It was a vision I will never be able to get out of my mind. My eyes filled with tears, as it appeared the life had been taken completely out of her. She was placed on a table, and we were politely asked to leave. What a gut-wrenching feeling I had in my stomach as I walked away from her now motionless body.

The nurse said, "she'll be OK, she's just sleeping .. the procedure won't take long, and she'll soon be back in your arms".

From that point on, time seemed to stand still. I could hear the clock ticking. 10 minutes went by, then 20 and pretty soon 30 minutes had elapsed and still nothing. It was then that I knew that this was as serious as Laura's pediatrician had thought. The waiting was unbearable.

Finally, the doctors emerged and their faces said it all. There were no smiles. The lead doctor came over and invited us into another room, and then it came ... "I'm sorry, but your daughter has leukemia". There was total silence.

PART 2: The reason why?

As time went by, I kept thinking to myself, "why did this happen? We've had no history of cancer on either side of our families, much less leukemia". Were we being punished for some reason?

We had our home and the babysitter's home tested for radon gas ... both came back negative.

We don't live near a bunch of powerlines, so electromagnetic wires were not the culprit.

Could this have happened during childbirth? (Laura was delivered by C-section)

So many questions were being asked, without getting any answers, which only led to more questions.

The one that kept coming back into my head was "How"? How did this happen .. and why her? I felt so helpless, but knew that I had to do something to help my little girl (as well as my other daughter, my wife and myself). Something brought this on, I just didn't know what.

So I started educating myself, not just on leukemia, but health in general, and what I found out was disturbing to say the least. We are living in a toxic mess - exposing our bodies to a virtual onslaught of dangerous chemicals every day.

Chemicals in body wash, in shampoos, in soap, in body lotion, in toothpaste, in mouthwash, in hair spray, in cosmetics, in air fresheners, in household cleaners, in dish detergents .. the list goes on and on. Could this be what caused my daughter's illness? Could it have been brought on by the lifestyle that my wife and I were living prior to conception? Could it have been brought on during the pregnancy? Could it have happened after Laura was born?

Was her sickness caused by these things that we used on a daily basis?

To this day, we still don't have all the answers, but we have changed our lifestyle. I didn't realize how much I took health and life for granted until I thought my daughter's was in jeopardy. Every day is a gift now.

I believe everything in life happens for a reason. Perhaps God chose me deliberately .. to go thru this, learn from it and then pass along my new found knowledge. My guess is, his plan was for me to teach others so that they may never have to endure the pain and agony of watching their child (or some other loved one) go thru what our child went thru. Learn from my experience, so that you may possibly avoid one.

Knowledge is one thing, but action is quite another. The second part of this plan must have been to align me with a company which offers products of unrivalled purity and effectiveness - free from any harmful ingredients. It is this company and their products that I now use and recommend to all that come in contact with me. I feel it's my duty in life and something that I was meant to do.

Cancer is a dreaded disease that has robbed us all of so many wonderful people. I have seen first hand what it's like to watch somebody battle thru it. It's not fun and it's not pretty. In fact some researchers are predicting that by the year 2030, 26 million people a year worldwide will be diagnosed with cancer, with 17 million dying from it.

So it is my mission to educate people on the dangers in the products they are using on a daily basis and offer them healthy alternatives. I'm actually quite angry at what is being sold to unknowing customers ... products being touted as "safe", as "natural", as "gentle", as "organic" ... are really anything but that. Products with catchy names and slogans in brightly colored, fancy shaped packages - all in the hopes of making a healthy profit, but making it anything but healthy for the end user. Unless we change our lifestyles and start supporting companies like the one I've aligned myself with, those researchers may well have made an accurate prediction for the year 2030. My goal is to make those numbers much, much less .. one person or one generation at a time.

In closing, let me leave you with a thought - perhaps the final part of God's plan was for you to read this story and then see if you'll act on it.

Like I said earlier, I believe everything in life happens for a reason.

3 Things That Increase Your Risk of Getting Leukemia

2009-09-17T23:03:00.000-07:00

There are always things we can do to reduce the risks of getting certain diseases. If your family history already has occurrences of leukemia in it then taking precautions is a wise step. Read on to see what things can increase your chances to contract this disease.

Doctors are still not sure of all the causes for leukemia, but there is a consensus on what factors will increase your chances to exacerbate this disease.

These are three common risk factors associated with leukemia

Smoking or Tobacco - the dangers of these toxins are clearly stated on the sides of the cigarette packages. It hasn't dampened the sales of this product and the health damage is well known.
Chemical Exposure - such as benzene and formaldehyde. This could have been over a period of time causing chronic cases that surface after years of exposure.
Infection - one type of infection is a form of HIV called HTLV-1. This virus infects T-Cells, atype of white blood cell. Usually contracted through needles, blood transfusions, sexual contact or breast feeding.

This type of cancer is contracted when your bone marrow starts over producing the white cells which are the fighter cells. These white cells can also be mutated or malfunctioning cells, in either case they cause havoc for you system.

If you read the book "Cell Talk" you will discover that the 7 trillion cells that reside in your body have a communication system. They have their own way of talking so the way you think and feel is transmitted to and through the. this opens the door for alternative treatments and other options for hope.

There is no doubt this condition is serious, but you can seriously combat leukemia with complementary options.

Start by going to Luekemia Options for more information and alternatives on this subject. It's time to take back your Health. It's time to enjoy life again and it's your time to find out about all the choices you have for Good Health.

Prostate Cancer… Could it b Overdiagnosed?

2009-09-16T23:01:00.000-07:00

According to some doctors, it is possible that prostate cancer is being over diagnosed. What does that really mean? Either you have cncer or you don’t not , right? True , but it is the stage ay which the cancer is detected that counts here. The wisdom is that oftentimes when prostate cancer is diagnosed the tumor is so small and the cancer grows at such a slow pace that the odds are the individual would die of something else before they would die from prostate cancer.

Research is currently being conducted to determine at what point a prostate cancer diagnosis actually make a patient’s life better. Dr. Len Lchtenfeild of the American Cancer Society says that the newly released study by researchers in the Netherlands and released by the Journal of the national Cancer Institute, reinforces the message that we are over diagnosing prostate cancer. The newly released study found out if the ten tumors that were found in patients involved in the study were so small and slow growing that the odds are, the tumors would have never caused a patient any problems. Dr. Lichtenfield says these estimates may even be low for the number of patients that are over diagnosed. Some doctors are raising the questions as to when do you diagnose the cancer and when do you just let nature run its course.

The newly released study followed prostate cancer diagnosed in men ages 54 to 80 between1985 and 2000, in the US. The study followed three different models developed by cancer centers at attempt at more accurately estimating over diagnosis of prostate cancer. The team led by researchers at Erasmus University Medical Centre in the Netherlands, found from 23 to 42 percent of patients who were diagnosed through PSA tests, a blood test that measures prostate specific antigen where elevated levels may indicate problems, would have had their prostate cancer go undetected through their lifetime, it is had not been for the PSA test.
The study tried to determine , at what point PSA tests are necessary and at what point bypassing the test would be better. Many doctors believe because of over diagnosis, many men undergo unnecessary tests or take medications that do not really extend their lives. The recently released study conducted many PSA test diagnose prostate cancer too often because though the patient many really have the cancer, the tumors are so small and growing slowly that old age or some other factor would lead to death before the prostate cancer.
While the American Cancer Society does not recommend routine testing or prostate cancer, they do recommend doctors offer testing to patients annually, beginning at age 50.

Leukemia Treatment With Green Tea?

2009-09-15T23:02:00.000-07:00

Chronic lymphocyte leukemia is the most common subtype of leukemia in the United States. It is presently an incurable disease. Unlike most other types of cancer in which early diagnosis increases the probability that a patient can be cured, treatment with cytotoxic chemotherapy is associated with increased toxicity but no increase in patient survival.

Despite this grim fact, there is good news. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology has shown patients with chronic lymphocyte leukemia in a phase one study, had a reduction of their lymphocyte in 33 % of participant. By doing so, the team of cancer researchers from the State University of New Jersey, established a positive link between green tea and a potential treatment of leukemia.

Several epidemiological studies have demonstrated that the consumption of green tea decreased the risk of cancer. Furthermore, prevention of the apparition of a tumor in animal models by tea, supported its ability to interfere with basic cancer processes, like angiogenesis and inflammation.

Green tea in a pill is still a long way off before the Food and Drug Administration approves this to be prescribed by your oncologist. By counting the phase 2 and the phase 3 studies, we are talking about 4 to 5 years before commercialization if all went well. And I am not bring the cost of these pills.

A tasty drink made with inexpensive ingredient, tea bought from the local market could sidestep many of these concerns. After all, food is the one medicine that we seem quite willing to take at least three times a day.

Want to find more about green tea go to functional food green tea.

Basic Facts About Lymphoma

2009-09-14T23:06:00.000-07:00

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that occurs in our lymphatic system. Lymphatic system is a network of small vessels and tissues spaces that circulates fluid called lymph throughout the body. Our lymphatic system consists of organs, ducts, bone marrow, spleen, tonsils and lymph nodes.

Lymphoma usually originates in the lymph nodes located all around the body, but they can also develop around lymph tissue that does not form distinct nodes. When lymph cancer develops in lymph nodes or lymph tissues, cells in the lymphatic system replicates abnormally.

Lymphomas are grouped into two major categories: Hodgkin's disease (HD) and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL).Hodgkin's disease tends to origin from lymph nodes and is found most commonly in younger adults while non-Hodgkin's disease can spread beyond the lymphatic system and occurs mostly in middle aged or elderly people.. These two major types of lymphoma are further divided into several subtypes. Diagnosis of lymphoma is usually done by biopsy of lymph nodes.

Lymph nodes affected by lymphoma appear prominently enlarged and disfigured. They may be stiff and have appearance similar to that of fish flesh. In extremely rare cases they are rock hard and they may show areas of cellular deaths (necrosis). Patients with lymphoma may have painless swellings of lymph nodes in the neck, underarm and/or groin. Some patients, especially those with Hodgkin's disease shows symptoms such as fever, night sweats, malaise fatigue, weight loss and itchy skin.

The treatment of lymphoma depends on the type of lymphoma diagnosed and also on the stage of the cancer, its location, the extent of symptoms and the physical condition and health of the patients. Radiotherapy is a preferred treatment for patients with both types of lymphoma. The other treatment options include chemotherapy, bone marrow or stem cell transplants, radio immunotherapy or biologic therapy.

Facts on Leukemia and What to Do About It

2009-09-14T22:57:00.001-07:00

There are many facts known about leukemia and if someone is dealing with the problem it's these facts they need to know. Like all cancers, leukemia happens for a reason as its not some mysterious illness that science can't fathom. For instance it's exceptionally rare in S.E. Asia but is prevalent in all western developed countries.

Some of the facts that have been linked to leukemia are high voltage power lines and people living close to these have a much higher risk factor. The chemical formaldehyde that is commonly found in our homes has also been linked to it. Food items associated with leukemia are aspartame, the artificial sweetener in many soft drinks and chewing gum. Sodium nitrite is another; the additive is used in luncheon meats. Other meats that contain sodium nitrite are sausages, hot dogs, hamburgers, bacon, ham, and any meats that have been processed.

Foods that are known to help leukemia patients are turmeric, the root vegetable that is the yellow colouring used in curry powder, bananas, oranges as well as grape seed extract. Also vitamin A which is most abundant in carrots, broccoli, squash and spinach. As with most nutrients it is always best to get them from natural sources and not in supplement form. In other words eat grapes, that is grapes with seed in them and buy turmeric fresh, grate it and use it in cooking.

There are many facts known about all cancers but unfortunately today our medical system is more interested in treating these different cancers instead of providing us with these known facts so we can avoid the problem in the first place. We don't have cancer prevention today; we only have expensive toxic treatments that are not very effective. Remember there is nothing in our 3 main treatments that will stop the return of cancer.

All cancers including leukemia have many known causes and these are; nutritional deficiencies, our sedentary lifestyle and the chemicals we encounter everyday. Leukemia is cancer of the blood; the body has lost control and makes too many white blood cells so why would it be any different to any other cancer. Anyone with leukemia needs to address all these issues, that is eat food in its natural state, get some exercise and be wary of all chemicals we use in our homes these days.

There is no such thing as a single cause for cancer, all cancers have multiple causes so the way to successfully overcome leukemia is to address the underlying causes and a change of diet is a great start. A strict natural diet is of paramount importance.

Leukemia Cancer - Everything You Need to Know

2009-09-12T23:01:00.000-07:00

Leukemia is generally considered and known as blood cancer, where as if considered in its real terms leukemia is a cancer of the white blood cells and the platelets. These platelets actually help blood to clot. Additionally when the white blood cells reduce in amount they actually leave the immune system unlocked for attack and the patient sometimes die of a very usual illness like flu. In general the deficiency of normal white cells impairs the body's ability to struggle against infections. A shortage of platelets results in bruising and easy bleeding whenever there is a need of clot to stop the flow of blood.

All kinds of various acute or chronic diseases of leukemia are dangerous. Acute leukemia being a swiftly succeeding disease affects typically cells that are embryonic or primitive (which means the cells that have not yet fully developed or differentiated from the others). These not fully formed cells thus cannot achieve their standard utility. These cells are described as "nonfunctional" because they do not work like normal cells. They also number out the usual normal healthy cells in the marrow, resulting in a decrease in the number of new healthy normal cells made in the marrow. These later results in low red cell counts which is a typical form of anemia.

On the other hand chronic leukemia develops gradually, and allows the development of larger amounts of more developed cells. In broader perspective, these more grown-up cells can achieve some of their typical functionality but due to the increase in the number of cells like white blood cells the blood flow may slow down and result in severe anemia.

The leukemia is categorized in to four basic categories which are as follows:

• Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML)
• Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL)
• Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML)
• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)

For acute leukemia following are the signs and symptoms of leukemia:

• Fatigue or tiredness
• Shortness of breath during physical activity
• Sluggish curing of cuts and excess bleeding
• Mild fever or night sweats
• Black-and-blue spots (bruises) for no evident cause
• Pinhead-size red spots under the skin
• Pale skin
• Low white cell counts
• Aches in bones or joints

As far as chronic leukemia is concerned people with CLL or CML may not have any symptoms. Some patients learn they have CLL or CML after a blood test as part of a usual checkup. Occasionally, a person with CLL may see enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, armpit or groin and go to the doctor. The person may feel exhausted or short of breath or have frequent infections, if the CLL is more severe. In these cases, a blood test may show an increase in the lymphocyte count.

A comprehensive blood count is utilized to make a diagnosis of leukemia. This blood examination may confirm high or low point of white cells and show leukemic cells within the blood. Sometimes, number of platelet and red cell are fairly low. Bone marrow tests like aspiration and biopsy are often carried out to verify the analysis and to glance for any chromosome irregularities. All these tests spot the leukemia and its cell category. These tests must be continued after regular intervals after treatment commences to gauge how sound the healing is.

Chemotherapy-Drug Information

2009-09-10T22:55:00.000-07:00

Cells are the basic building blocks of the human body. Cells grow in our body within limits. If a sudden fast and improper growth of cells take place in a particular part or completely in the body is what we name as cancer. Chemotherapy is a special method of treating the cancer patients. With a help of some kind of drugs inserted into the body, the cancer cells are completely removed or controlled.

Several types of drugs are used in chemotherapy for curing the cancer. The chemotherapy drug usage depends on the type of cancer and stage of it. Also depending upon the age, health of the patients they vary from patient to patient. There are so many drugs available for this purpose.

Let us see some of the drugs used commonly for the chemotherapy are; Cisplatin, Carboplatin, vinorelbine, metheotrexrate, paclitaxel are the widely used. They are used in combinations most of the times.

But there lies a serious possibility of side effects emerging due to the chemotherapy. Most of the side effects happen at the time of undergoing the treatment. General side effects are abdominal pain, headache, vomiting, neck and breathing problems.

Sometimes there may be difference in blood count are seen. This occurs as result of drug used destroys the healthier cells in the body. The platelets in the body may be reduced too. It produces unstopped bleeding.

Hair loss is found to be an inevitable setback while performing this treatment. Loss of weight associated with depression may be a dangerous side effect. Most of the side effects are present at the time of performing chemotherapy and don't appear after the treatment is over.

Discover More About Childhood Leukemia and Its Chronic Symptoms

2009-09-08T22:56:00.000-07:00

Are you aware of childhood leukemia and where did it come from? You may be thinking that this is not a problem for you or your children today, but how about the future and the next generation? Nobody can't tell where this hematological disease come from, what may have started it, or what may have caused it. And this is what makes it somewhat depressing.

If you have a child who suffers from this disease, have you tried asking your doctor what may have caused this? Usually they can't really pinpoint which is which, for there are so many possible things that can trigger this, like for instance exposure to chemicals like benzene and dioxins, improper use of plastic materials, multiple nutritional problems, and merely because of genetics. All of these may affect the immune system of a child which may lead to further problems and diseases like this cancer of the blood called leukemia.

Do you know that it has been said that every single person has cancer cells in the body and it is possible that we may have already acquired them even at birth. However, these cancer cells are merely not detected as cancer unless it reaches a certain number which can be confirmed as a detectable size through a series of tests done. So you might be wondering how come your child has reached the age of 2, yet that is the only time that he or she have acquired this disease.

You may not be aware of it at first, but in the previous years or months that you are taking care of your child, he or she might have already acquired the chronic symptoms of leukemia, however wasn't still diagnosed having it because the cancer cells can't still be detected. The chronic symptoms may occur to be as a normal illness like frequent fever any time of the day, occasional stomach aches, sweating at night, bruising, getting colds and cough more often than usual. These symptoms are due to frequent ups and downs of the composition of your child's blood count. And usually a pediatrician would ask for a Complete Blood Count test and may prescribe a medicine to cure any possible infections.

Even a pediatrician can't detect childhood leukemia that soon, unless they have done all the tests and created their own work plan to pin point the main issue. Results of the tests sometimes may lead to severe anemia, or iron deficiency, but with concrete tests such as bone marrow testing, you will then be referred to a hematologist who would be able to read the findings of possible cancer cells present in the bone marrow.

It is not that easy to detect childhood leukemia if you are not aware that cancer is already present in our system and it can be triggered. With a strong immune system you can definitely prevent these cells from multiplying. So, better start living a healthy lifestyle and be aware of the environmental factors which could cause such health issues.

Chemotherapy - Drugs Used For Treatment

2009-09-03T22:55:00.000-07:00

The method of killing the cancer cells present the whole body or in particular part by passing anti-cancer drugs into the blood stream is called chemotherapy. It is also employed to prevent the spreading of cancer from part to another. It proves to be more efficient when it is used in the metastasis condition. In this condition the cancer spreads to all parts from where it has originated.

Each every chemotherapy agent has specific role depending upon the treatment and characteristics of the drug used. Most of them intervene with the DNA synthesis. Based on their features and treatment they are classified as alkylating agents, anti-metabolits, anthracyclines, antitumor antibiotics, monoclonal antibodies, platinums, or plant alkaloids.

Alkylating agents are the widely used drugs in the chemotherapy treatment. These drugs are effective through all phases of cell cycle. The alkylate agent acts directly on the DNA strands, breaks the strands and forms abnormal pairing, thus prevents the cell division taking place, and cells die off as a result of it.

Anti-metabolits are found to be useful in treating chronic problems and some cases of leukemia and for various tumors.

Anthracyclines drugs are obtained from natural resources. They work by producing free oxygen radicals which acts with the DNA strands and prevents the cell division.

Antitumor antibiotics are obtained from soil fungus streptomyces. It employs the free oxygen radicals for breaking the DNA strands and preventing cell division. Bleomycin is a commonly used antitumor antibiotic

Monoclonal antibodies, they are attach themselves with the tumor specific antigens and thus block the growth of the cell.

Platinums, they are also used to provide the DNA impairing and to stop the cell growth. But the setback is they can injure the kidneys as they are toxic.

Plant alkaloids, according to the name they are derived from plants. And they are used in cell specific cycles.

2 Alternative Treatments For Leukemia

2009-09-01T22:52:00.000-07:00

Conventional medicine is now recognizing what is called complementary or alternative treatments, alternative treatments for leukemia is one of them. If you are afflicted with this disease you will want to read further to find out about these alternative treatments.

For those who don't know, leukemia is a cancer that starts in the blood forming cells. The bone marrow produces both white and red cells, when this disease takes flight a over abundance of abnormal white cells are produced. These cells can attack good tissue, for what ever reasons they see them as the enemy.

Two Alternative Treatments For Leukemia

Nutritional Therapy - this is just what it states, re-balancing you system based on nutritional imbalances. Natural treatment through the ages has always healed the body by giving it what it lacks in nutrition. Adhering to the belief that "give the body what it needs and it will do the rest".
Naturopathic Medicine - a doctor practicing this type of medicine dips their feet in both traditional and natural treatments. The difference is this practicing doctor digs deeper, they look for the cause which can lead to the cure.

When you hear the word Alternative you will most likely find practitioners that work on a natural and/or spiritual level of healing. Some of it based on hundreds of years of passed on knowledge, some of it based on scientific fact and some of it based on the belief that your mind holds enormous power for healing.

Treatments have two goals, making you better and making life better for you. If any of the alternative treatments for leukemia can do this, why not consider them.

You can start by going to Luekemia Options for more information and alternatives on this subject. It's time to take back your Health. It's time to enjoy life again and it's your time to find out about all the choices you have for Good Health.

Leukemia Treatment Failure - Are There Alternatives?

2009-08-30T04:06:00.000-07:00

His cancer returned despite all of the treatment. He lost his girlfriend, he lost his job and he lost his flat and moved in with his parents. He is dying. He really believes that he will die.

What about the work of Renee Caisse and her Essiac formula? What about the work of a German biochemist named Johanna Budwig? What about the excellent book: How To Fight Cancer and Win?

What about the work of Bernie Siegal - a cancer surgeon who found another way? There are people who have defeated cancer.

Here are some more things to explore: What about juicing wheat grass and vegetables. What about macrobiotic diets. What about...? The list is long.

When all else fails, what do you have to lose by trying? Next, learn more about natural cancer treatments through the links below.

Sex After Prostate Cancer - a Wife's Sensual Secrets Revealed About Touch

2009-08-29T02:55:00.000-07:00

Talking about relationships and sensuality isn't easy. Talking to people who have been through traumatic physical experiences and who are struggling with partner relationships is important.

My husband has had multiple health challenges, so I've had to take my own advice lately. I haven't shared with enough of you how we've been able to get through it all. We have had our arguments and yet we've found a way to have fun along the way. Sensuality can be a part of your life if you want to feel good or make someone you love feel good.

Let's agree that different people have different physical capabilities. Sensuality is about gratifying your senses. We have five senses to gratify. You can gratify senses without intercourse. You can find satisfaction in many ways. Consider the possibilities. What would you enjoy touching, seeing, hearing, tasting, or smelling? Do something for your senses. When we seek to enhance our touching experiences we can consider our soap, our body lotions, massage oils, pillows, and even lingerie.

Let's talk about the sense of touch. We can touch with fingers, hands, feet, toes, tongue, and nose to name a few possibilities. When we touch we can either help ourselves feel good or someone we love feel good. My husband told me that when his body parts didn't want to cooperate he was often frustrated, angry, and depressed.

Depression is not my specialty. I'm not a doctor. I don't take any medications. My husband thinks I should take something for menopause. I exercise... I don't smoke and I rarely drink any alcohol. When your partner has physical issues, it effects you too.

When you touch someone you have an opportunity to share love, express how much you care, and to display your feelings on a physical level. It is possible to feel good helping someone you love feel good, better, or great.

If you are going to touch someone you can choose to have products which enhance the touching sensations. As we travel around the world we look for products to recommend. We experiment with new sensations as much as possible.

We found products such as pure coconut oil and pure cocoa butter are lubricating and silky, smooth to touch. One coconut-pineapple massage oil from Fiji smelled so strong that the room retained the coconut-pineapple scent for three days.

If you would like to participate in the sensuality survey online to help us serve your needs and answer more of your questions, please let us know.

Lori Wilk is an internationally known speaker, author, and multi-media producer of programming and special events.

Find out more about events, products, and program at http://www.lvpublicity.com and http://www.blogtalkradio.com/successipes

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