A cancer survivor Story: increase your chances of success

In my work with clients who are grappling with a serious illness, I came to see what works and what does not. Another way I describe: Do you have a strategy in place to give you the highest probability of success healing? Or do you have a strategy for a possible disaster? Most of the time, this disaster is slow, the actions you take now in the present can reach a result that you do not want.

Remember prediction / prophecy is a specific outcome in the future based on the thoughts and feelings that you experience in this and the actions you take in the present. This principle is science. But the powerful of this principle is that, if you make minor changes in the present, it creates a sea change in the future, it is the "Butterfly Effect".

The following is a list highlighting the connection between strategy and probability. All actions suggested that you see are a win-win situation, really.

• If you are diagnosed with cancer or a serious illness and emotional initiate work immediately or at any time, you have a lot better chance of curing the disease. And usually this emotional labor has to do with the forgiveness of yourself or others.
• If you make a detoxification programme at an appropriate time after chemotherapy or radiotherapy with a highly trained professional you have a lower likelihood of the disease returning.
• If you combine an alternative conventional protocol with your protocol, under the supervision of highly qualified professionals, you have greater probability of success with fewer side effects and no permanent damage.
• If you look at your illness as a gift and a learning experience that you have much greater chance of a lot of things: less pain, better decision-making, a successful cure, spiritual growth, a better relationship with those who surround you.
• If you quiet your thoughts around fear and allow your wisdom to reach you have a greater likelihood of success.
• If you eat well and exercise, the probability of success is higher.
  

The list could go on, but I am sure you see the principle.
I was shopping in a store kitchen a few weeks back and talked to the manager. I was driving her crazy looking for kitchen utensils aluminium no! It was very useful and we had a good time to explore Bakeware, which is totally free of aluminum. For some reason, after my second trip to the store, I said the reason I was little kooky on this issue was aluminum, because I am a cancer survivor. It turns out that it is too!

Survivors of cancer have a way of finding each other. She told me that she has survived cancer twice. I told him about my work and asked her nicely if it had explored one of the emotional issues that might have led to cancer? She said, "No, she knows where it came from, everything is genetics with it." I said, "It may certainly be part of it, but sometimes the reasons are multi-dimensional." She seemed receptive to the idea. At the moment, I am grateful that I am getting the word out there.

Many people who have been through cancer have not thought about the emotional. I only hope that my writing and the work of the other will educate them to the emotional dynamics behind the disease. For me it is a mission, one that I am honoured to be given.

Tomotherapy the Most Recent Advancement in Hi-tech Cancer Treatment

TomoTherapy, a commercialized form of IMRT, the latest being the radiation delivery systems. Used for the first time in 2003, TomoTherapy treatment is so new that many oncologists are not even trained in that regard. However, TomoTherapy is gaining speed and is now used in more than 100 locations across the United States, Europe and Asia.

TomoTherapy The term comes from the Greek word "tomos," which means "part". Tomography, for example, the medical imaging technology is that the images of sections of the body, most commonly called "slices" in the medical community. Thus, TomoTherapy could be called "slice of therapy."

The "salami-slicing" TomoTherapy comes from the ability to deliver radiation from multiple angles, rather than several fixed positions, as the distribution system revolves around the patient. This allows uninterrupted radiation to the target, providing a higher dose than is usually possible.

In addition, TomoTherapy combines a very sophisticated form of radiation intensity modulation (IMRT), treatment planning and CT guided patient positioning the image. The combination of these technologies enables radiation oncologists to obtain an updated picture of the tumor location, the position of the patient, directly addressing right before delivery, and making last-minute adjustments if necessary.

Essentially, TomoTherapy allows for more accurate, higher dose of radiation delivery while minimizing the treatment of lesions and tissues 6as treatment and recovery time.

TomoTherapy is commonly used to treat cancer of the lungs, head and neck, breast, prostate, and others. If you look at the treatment options and consider TomoTherapy, you should ask your doctor specifically about this. Because it is so new not all doctors are aware of it and its advantages compared to conventional treatment for certain types of cancer.

If TomoTherapy is right for you, a radiation oncologist who has been specially trained in TomoTherapy will be needed. Because of its limited distribution, TomoTherapy few doctors are trained during their residence. However, due TomoTherapy is a combination of existing technologies, the level of experience specifically in TomoTherapy is less important than a doctor's overall experience in the treatment of radiation therapy.

The chemotherapy drugs: Few side effects known YOU need to know!

In January 2005 it was reported that cancer has surpassed heart disease - for the first time - as the top killer of Americans aged under 85. In 2002, the most recent year for which information is available, 476009 Americans aged under 85 died of cancer, compared with 450637 died of heart disease. It is estimated that 1372910 new cases of cancer and 570260 cancer deaths are expected this year.

Paclitaxel, a preferred treatment for breast cancer and lung cancer, a risk of cancer promotion and….

Lung cancer remains the biggest cancer killer, projected to claim 163510 lives this year. Paclitaxel will be used in the attempt to save the lives of many of these patients. However, a little-known effect of Paclitaxel is that in a subset of these patients, there will be up to a fivefold increase in the production of interleukin - 8 (IL-8) - a cellular communication molecule that triggers growth of new blood vessels to feed the growth of cancer. In other words, if you fall into this subset of patients, treatment using paclitaxel alone may not be effective in preventing recidivism.

NF-kB blockade enhances the ability to kill cancer Paclitaxel!
IL-8 is under the control of an inflammatory regulating protein called nuclear factor - kappa Beta (NF-kB). During the activation of NF-kB is blocked, IL-8 sec, a bit like a faucet that has been deactivated. Thus, blocking NF-kB activation enhances the ability to kill cancer Paclitaxel. These results were seen with many types of cancer cells, including lung cancer and esophageal cancer cells.

Paclitaxel is not only drug that promotes excessive NF-kB
Paclitaxel is just one of a group of drugs which has the unwanted side effect of the activation of NF-kB. Other drugs in this group include doxorubicin, 5-fluorouracil, cisplatin, VP-16 (etoposide), ARA-C, and Methotrexate. In addition, research shows that excessive NF-kB activity contributes to cancer development in the types of cancers: non-small cell lung cancer, pancreas, liver primary cancer of the head and neck, prostate, breast, esophagus, stomach, colon, Hodgkin's disease and multiple myeloma.

A treatment of chemotherapy, which improves the efficiency… ..
Paclitaxel, along with the other NF-kB activation of chemotherapy drugs, was approved for the treatment of a wide range of cancers. It seems likely that they will continue to be used for the foreseeable future. If you are (or plan to use) Paclitaxel or one another in this group of drugs for the treatment of cancer, there is a symptomatic treatment that you need to know about that improves the effectiveness of these drugs and reduces your risk of a recurrence of cancer.

We have a multi-dimensional approach to reduction of inflammation and Complements Improves the impact of these drugs!

At the learning centre healing in Ann Arbor, MI, where I practice integrative medicine and behavioral oncology, I focus on multi-dimensional ways to empower patients to evaluate and change patterns of eating, behaving , reflection and adaptation which are expected to contribute For the inflammatory reactions in the body. These methods complement the effects of the assassination of cancer Paclitaxel, doxorubicin, 5-FU, and other drugs.

Can clarify genomic tests your specific inflammatory molecular mechanisms that support your cancer
Inflammation is present before, and during the life of a cancer. In cancer, inflammation is a pathological process characterized by injury or destruction of tissues caused by a series of chemical reactions and cellular. It is usually translates into typical signs of pain, heat, redness, swelling and loss of function. However, inflammation is also essential for tissue repair and reconstruction of tissue. Genomic Tests (easily performed with samples of saliva or blood) allows us to create a custom map of your inflammatory tendencies based on your genomic predispositions. This method is revolutionary because it allows you to regulate your genomic capabilities to your advantage, which allows you to reduce the expression of your genes related to inflammation.

What cancer patients need to do is Reducing the expression of genes related to inflammation
Once you know your plan for specific genomic excessive inflammation, we are working together to develop the tools you need to re-define the term of your plan inflammation. These tools must be unique to you, precisely because your abilities expression of genomes are yours. These tools include anti-inflammatory regimes supported by oral and intravenous nutrients that block and down-regulating NF-kB. Remember, this protein is responsible for the abnormal elevation of IL-8 during Paclitaxel administration. By measuring markers of inflammation cell before, during and after chemotherapy treatment, and using your unique tools, we compile a personalized treatment of inflammatory responses record (normal and abnormal), which serves as a reference for the risk of cancer recurrence after treatment of chemotherapy.

With these guidelines personally, you insider knowledge about food choices, attitudes and interpersonal relationships that will be conducive to keeping your genes related to inflammation silent. Patients with high inflammatory markers during chemotherapy are at higher risk for recurrence, and should be monitored more closely and modulate their expression NF-kB after the chemotherapy.

What is important to understand is that:

• There is an optimal amount of the expression of NF-kB compatible with health;
• Expression excessive contributes to the emergence of diseases like cancer, especially when NF-kB is switched on continuously, and
• You have the power and tools to regulate NF-kB expression.
  

Become the captain of your team healing!
As your doctor-coach, I recommend that you become the master of your team healing, and that me and my team partner with you in order to clarify the specific molecular mechanisms behind the wheel of your cancer. We coach with the skills and master the tools needed to reduce the collective contribution of food, their feelings and attitudes to the excessive expression of genes associated with inflammation. By working together, we learn how to adjust your pattern inflammation by modulating the expressive ability of NF-kB. The modulation of the expression of your NF-kB is the game of self-discovery, consciousness expansion, forgiveness, and cells (self-) renewal is what allows healing to occur. (To see diagrams describing NF-kB in health and disease, visit our website at http://www.arond-thomasonline.com!)

Learn about how you can improve your chances of not having a cancer recurrence…
You or a loved one can learn about how you can improve the efficiency of your cancer treatments and improve your chances of not having a recurrence. At http://www.1CancerCoach.com.

Early Detection Of Any Disease Is The Key So What Are The First Symptoms Of Lung Cancer?

A lot of research has been devoted to discovering the first symptoms of lung cancer. Cancer is a disease that painful who needs no introduction and lung cancer is one of the most common forms. It is said that early detection of cancer is the key to prevention.

Extensive research at Mesothelioma clinical research have revealed some of the symptoms of lung cancer closely linked to the disease.

The symptoms of lung cancer
People addicted to tobacco and those who are constantly exposed to the harmful effects of asbestos are more susceptible to lung cancer. Ignorance about the symptoms of lung cancer can lead to a real case exploded.

Be on the alert if you have to cough most of the time. It is one of the first symptoms. Another symptom can be a change in the nature of the cough. Other symptoms may be short of breath and coughing up blood-stained sputum. Mesothelioma research has established that the pain in breathing, loss of appetite, fatigue and weight loss can also be the first symptoms of lung cancer.

These are seen as the first symptoms of lung cancer. There are too many secondary symptoms. Sudden development of a hoarse voice, is a symptom of lung cancer secondary. Difficulty in swallowing is regarded as another symptom of lung cancer. Swelling of the face due to blockage of the main blood vessels and swelling of the neck due to enlarged lymph nodes can be other symptoms too.

Treatment of pain in the right region of fish and shortness of breath caused by the accumulation of fluid as warning signs of lung cancer. If you notice any of them, see your doctor for a check-up.
Let's combat the deadly cancer of the lung.

Can You Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer

Ou hear all the time… lose weight for your health. Few people, however, realize the extent to which this is critical to their physical well-being and ultimately their life expectancy.

In January 2003, the Journal of the American Medical Association featured a study finding that obesity appears to be declining life expectancy, especially among young adults. The researchers compared Body Mass Index (BMI) to longevity and found a correlation between premature death and BMIs. For example, a 20-year-old white male, 5'10 "weighing 288 pounds with a BMI greater than 40 is estimated to lose 13 years of his life as a result of obesity.Jamie McManus, MD, FAAFP and author of" Your Personal Guide to Wellness "notes that while this study referenced extreme levels of obesity, there are still millions of overweight people in developed countries, with a rate of life expectancy is only three to five years less than their healthy weight. Furthermore, it is estimated that there are 600000 deaths related to obesity each year in America.

Just how obesity shorten our life expectancy? The answer to this question is complex, but there is a clear link between obesity and the development of cancer. An extensive study conducted by the American Cancer Institute involving 750000 people have shown that obesity has increased significantly the risk of developing cancer in the following organs: breast, colon, ovaries, uterus, pancreas , kidney and gallbladder.

Michael Thun, MD, vice president of epidemiology and surveillance research for the American Cancer Society (ACS) says one reason obesity may raise cancer risk is because fat cells produce a form of estrogen called estradiol that promotes rapid cell division, which increases the chances of Random genetic error in the replication of cells, which can lead to cancer. In addition, the fat around the abdomen may increase insulin and insulin-like growth factor in blood, which can increase the risk of cancer.

"Women who are obese after menopause than 50% have a higher relative risk of breast cancer," notes Thun, "and obese men have a 40% higher relative risk of colon cancer…. Gallbladder and endometrial cancer risks are five times higher for obese people. " There is evidence that cancer rates in developed countries are increasing by 5 to 15 times faster than developing countries. One of the main contributors to this alarming reality has proven to be diet. In populations where the diet consists mostly of fresh fruit and vegetables and whole grains - unlike the typical Western diet of fatty meats, refined flour, oil and sugar - the risk of cancer is much lower.

The interaction between diet and the development of cancer is an active field of research and Dr David Heber, MD, Ph.D. And author of "What Color Is Your Diet", says "It appears that diet has more significant effects after the cancer has already formed, acting to inhibit or stimulate the growth of this cancer." At the risk of oversimplifying a complex set of interactions, the typical Western diet that leads to obesity may actually act to stimulate the growth of cancer cells. It is never too late to improve your health through healthy eating and adopting a more health-giving life. Here are some simple steps which can make an immediate improvement to your health and vitality.

1. Check your body mass index (BMI) to determine if weight has become health risk. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 60% of Americans are overweight, defined as having a BMI (a ratio of height to weight) over 25. Of those, nearly half (27%) considered obese, with a body mass index of 30 or more. In 1980, only 15% of Americans are considered obese. You can check your BMI at the address below.

2. Match your diet to the needs of your body. If you eat and drink more calories than your body you need to gain weight. Learning to control portion size and calories, make recipes leaner, and rarely eat fast food restaurants. Also learn to taste with healthy choices.

3. Color your diet with a wide variety of colors, the fight against cancer of fruits and vegetables. There are seven different color ranges of both fruit and vegetables and by choosing between 5 to 9 daily serves from a wide range of fruit and vegetables, we are extending our consumption of cancer (and other diseases) the fight against nutrients.

4. Eat lean protein at every meal. Protein provides a powerful signal to the brain providing a longer sense of fullness. The good source of protein is essential to controlling your hunger with fewer calories and necessary to maintain your lean muscle mass. Choice of soy protein should be flavoured with fruit shakes, white meat turkey and chicken, seafood such as shrimp, lobster and shrimp, scallops and ocean fish or vegetarians may prefer meat substitutes soy.

5. Rev your metabolism activity. If you want to enjoy a life of well-being, exercise is a key element. Colleen Doyle, MS, RD, director of nutrition and physical activity for the American Cancer Society (ACS), says adults should do something for 30 minutes each day that takes as much effort as a brisk walk . Children should be active for an hour each day. We are more likely to develop habits around things we enjoy, to find activities you enjoy doing. It is also helpful to build physical activity into your daily routine: use the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator at work, park your car in the parking lot farthest from the bay super marketing and not use the remote to change channels.

6. Getting help to make sure to establish a healthy diet and achieve your goal weight. Although a small percentage of people possess the discipline to lose weight, many obese people have developed strong thoughts and habits concerning the food they eat. In order to create new habits, most people respond well to some form of encouragement and support consistent. A study entitled "The effects of the Internet on Behavioral Counseling weight loss in adults at risk of type 2 diabetes" shows that participants who had the support of the training of weight loss lost more weight than those who had none. The study concluded that the support of a coach, weight loss can significantly improve weight loss.

Being overweight or obese has been identified next to smoking, as the greatest avoidable risk of cancer. Even small weight losses have been shown to have beneficial effects for health. So, it is never too late to start and you can never be too young or too old to be concerned about your health and do something about achieving a more healthy weight.

Asbestos: A Deadly Environmental & Health Hazard

Asbestos is a term used for some naturally occurring minerals that form long thin fibers and fiber bundles on crystallization. Most commonly found group is the serpentine group that includes Chrysotile (white asbestos). It is also the most frequently mined form of Asbestos. Another very important asbestos group is known as the amphiboles, which includes Crocidolite (blue asbestos) and Amosite (brown asbestos). The asbestos fibers have high tensile strength, and chemical, electrical and heat resistance properties and so are extremely useful as a building/insulation material. Asbestos has been used extensively all over the world.

Asbestos: General Information
Although Asbestos is a hazardous material, it poses a health risk only if the Asbestos fibers become airborne and subsequently inhaled. Therefore, most Asbestos materials pose little health risk unless they are disturbed in a way that allows the fibers to be released into the atmosphere. Inhalation of asbestos fibers can lead to serious diseases such as lung cancer, Mesothelioma (a cancer of the lining of the lungs or lower digestive tract) and asbestosis (a chronic fibrosis of the lungs).

Many industries used Asbestos extensively in the past, exposing their workers to this deadly materials. As a result, many new cases of Asbestos caused ailments are occurring now. However, the fact that Asbestos was also installed in many buildings means that a wider range of people still have the potential to be exposed – particularly building and maintenance workers. For this reason, the latest revision of the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations introduces (from May 2004) a new responsibility on those responsible for non-domestic premises to manage the asbestos contained in them.

Asbestos Caused Diseases
Mesothelioma is a cancer of the pleural and peritoneal lining. It exclusively related to asbestos exposure. By the time it is diagnosed, it is usually fatal. Mesothelioma has a long latency period (time between exposure and onset of disease) of at least 15 years and sometimes as long as 60 years.

Asbestosis is a scarring of the lung tissue. This scarring impairs the elasticity of the lung and hampers its ability to exchange gases. This leads to inadequate oxygen intake to the blood. Asbestosis restricts breathing leading to decreased lung volume and increased resistance in the airways. It is a slowly progressive disease with a latency period of 15 to 30 years.

Lung Cancer is a malignant tumor of the bronchi covering. The tumor grows through surrounding tissue, invading and often obstructing air passages. Again, the disease has a long latency period of at least 20 years.

The victims of all these asbestos related diseases are eligible to file lawsuits for compensation against the persons and organizations responsible for causing asbestos exposure. They can take the help of mesothelioma and asbestos attorneys to fight their compensation claims.

Avoid Further Mesothelioma Injury Through Prompt Treatment

Mesothelioma injury can be classified into three main groups, Pleural (chest), Peritoneal (abdominal) and Pericardial (heart). All three types of Mesothelioma injury are mainly cause through exposure to an Asbestos related substance.

Mesothelioma injury arises when the Mesothelioma cells surrounding the lungs, heart, or abdominal organs become cancerous. The Mesothelioma cells change to form nodules, which can then clump together to form a tumor, or tumors around the organ.

In more extreme cases of Mesothelioma Cancer, the Mesothelioma tumor can break through the walls of the organs that it surrounds and cause internal damage to the organ. Also, in some cases the Cancer can travel through the blood stream and affect other organs, not directly surrounded by the original Mesothelioma Cancerous Cells.

The origins of Mesothelioma injury begin when a person is exposed to an asbestos related substance. The person either inhales the Asbestos fibers, or the fibers enter the skin. These fibers either lodge in the lungs, or travel through the body and affect the heart, or abdominal organs.

The bodies natural defense system will attempt to eradicate the fibers from the body, through attempts to expel the fibers. However, some fibers will become lodged in the Mesothelioma cell layers that provide a protective layer around the lungs, heart and abdominal area.

Over time, the Mesothelioma cells surrounding the fibers, can change consistency and become cancerous. It is at this stage that the Mesothelioma injury begins to occur, as it turns into Mesothelioma.

However, Mesothelioma injury also includes the conditional affects that occur as a result of having Mesothelioma Cancer. Some of these conditional affects include, immune deficiency, which can lead to a slow break down of the bodies defense system.

Once the bodies defense system begins to break down the body can become subject to colds and other such illnesses. The overall affects of having Mesothelioma Cancer can lead to an array of Mesothelioma injuries and has the potential to cause major organ failure.

In order to prevent the adverse affects of Mesothelioma injury, Mesothelioma doctors have been implementing various treatments that aim to prevent further damage. Some of these treatments include, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and immune augmentative therapy.

In regard to Mesothelioma Cancer, Surgery aims to remove the Cancerous Mesothelioma cells, while chemotherapy uses drugs to kill the Cancerous cells. Radiation therapy also aims to eliminate the Mesothelioma cells, while immune augmentative therapy aims to restore the body’s natural immune system to a level in which it can be effective in helping to fight the effects of Mesothelioma Cancer.

All of these treatment methods are aimed at preventing further Mesothelioma injury to the patient. If you, or someone you know, have been diagnosed with Mesothelioma Cancer, ensure that you seek immediate treatment to prevent the affects of Mesothelioma Cancer and to avoid further Mesothelioma injury.

Battling cancer

is a tough time in anyone’s life. Perhaps the toughest. That’s why we’ve decided to write this article on how to care for yourself during radiation for Breast Cancer.

It very important to properly care for yourself during radiation for breast cancer. Keep in mind that after radiation you could feel fatigued for up to six weeks. Sleep as much as you like during this time – one thing you really need is your rest.

Also, make sure after radiation that you wear a comfortable bra. Making sure your bra fits properly and doesn’t rub in any way is all part of good care for yourself during radiation for breast cancer. If a part of your bra rubs place a soft cloth between the bra and your skin.

Weight loss can be a problem after radiation treatment. In order to properly care for yourself during radiation for breast cancer make sure you eat a balanced diet. This will help you to avoid weight loss and keep your energy levels as high as possible.

Keep the skin fold area under your breast clean and talk to your doctor before using any powders, lotions, deodorants or perfumes. As part of your care for yourself during breast cancer radiation you need to make sure you are not using any products that might react with your skin at this time or do something to affect the radiation treatment in any way. Because of this it is best to avoid deodorants. Deodorants contain magnesium, and this can inhibit the effectiveness of the radiation treatment. To avoid reactions with the treated area, also avoid starching your clothes.

As part of care for yourself during radiation for breast cancer bathe the treated area in lukewarm water. This is because hot and cold water can damage your skin.

Whiskey: An Antidote For Cancer?

For a quite a number of years, liquor has been known not only to bring destructive intoxication and addiction upon its patrons, but also as deterrent to a healthy lifestyle. But as a potential weapon against cancer? Sounds controversial.

Rumors that single malt whiskey may be a tool to combat cancer have begun circulating recently. Whether it actually holds any water has yet to be proven. According to one of the theory’s proponents, a consultant to the whiskey industry, Dr. Jim Swan, the antioxidants present in whiskey, particularly ellagic acid, can reduce the risk of developing cancer, since this acid fights the unstable atoms that aid in rapid cell replication. He added that the more cells were produced, the more likely that rogue cancer cells will be born. “Whiskey can protect you from cancer and science proves it,” he said, speaking at the EuroMedLab 2005 conference in Glasgow. Dr Swan explained that ellagic acid, which is in greater concentration in whiskey than in red wine, breaks down the harmful free radicals present in our body.

However, Cancer Research UK remains unconvinced. The agency has raised concerns that what Dr Swan and his supporters are pushing might mislead consumers into drinking excessive amounts of whiskey just to avoid cancer. Cancer Research noted that liquor intake can eventually lead to certain kinds of cancer, such as those in the esophagus, throat, mouth, bowel and liver. Dr Swan’s idea that whiskey can prevent cancer also received criticism, owing mostly to an absence of population data supporting them. Contrariwise, according to the agency’s head of cancer information Lesley Walker, there exists evidence that high alcohol consumption does increase cancer risks. Ms Walker noted that while ellagic acid is a formidable antioxidant and may greatly aid in the fight against cancer, its presence in whiskey is not reason enough for people to begin drinking up, especially as ellagic acid can also be found in certain fruits.

The concept that a certain type of alcohol may help deter cancer is novel and, for frequent drinkers, even noble. What liquor patron would ignore this theory? But, still, Dr Swan’s ideas remain untested and there does not exist any known positive link between whiskey and cancer. If there would be something that suggest this is true sometime in the future, then it will be considered revolutionary. However, in the absence of adequate information at present, whiskey as a deterrent to cancer is a dubious thought. While we all hope and pray that an alternative treatment to cancer will surface soon, this is probably not the time to become this optimistic about whiskey’s alleged benefits.

Are asbestos fibers visible to the eye ?

If you are in the construction business or employed by an industry that uses products containing asbestos, you may wonder “Are asbestos fibers visible to the eye”? Generally asbestos fibers are too small to be seen by the naked eye. Asbestos becomes dangerous when it has broken down into small fibers and is inhaled. It is nearly impossible to detect the presence of asbestos without taking the material to a lab for testing. A lab technician will put the material under a microscope to search for asbestos fibers. Asbestos does not cause an immediate reaction. It will not cause you to cough, sneeze, or your eyes to water. You cannot see, smell, or taste asbestos. If you skin becomes contaminated with asbestos it will not burn or itch.

Asbestos related diseases have a very long latency period. This is the time frame from when you are first exposed to asbestos until you become ill. Most persons do not become ill for at least ten years after exposure and some not until over forty years later. Asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma are all asbestos related diseases. Asbestosis occurs when asbestos fibers enter the lungs. The body will naturally produce an acid to combat the fibers. However, this acid can cause scarring in the tissue of the lungs and in advanced stages breathing becomes more difficult and painful. Asbestosis was first documented in shipyard workers. Asbestos can also cause lung cancer. If a person smokes and is exposed to asbestos, they have a much greater chance of developing lung cancer. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that has only been linked to asbestos exposure. It is a cancer of the cells that line the peritoneum (area surrounding the abdominal organs) and the pleura (area outside of the lungs and inside of the ribs).

There is a lot of debate and controversy surrounding which types of asbestos is harmful. Some types of asbestos are thought to be more dangerous than others but all types of asbestos exposure should be avoided. Actinolite, amosite, anthophyllite, crocidolite, chrysotile (white asbestos), and tremolite are all types of asbestos. Chrysotile is the type of asbestos most commonly used in manufacturing products.

Asbestos fibers are not visible to the eye. If you feel you may have been exposed to asbestos, the most common method for testing is a chest x-ray. The x-ray will not show the asbestos fibers but it can spot early signs of lung disease. There is no known cure for asbestos related diseases.

What You Really Need to Know About Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women in the United States (other than skin cancer). Each year, in the United States alone, approximately 220,000 women are told they have breast cancer. Upon hearing this unexpected and overwhelming news, a woman is faced with having to make treatment choices within a very short period of time. While curable if detected early, breast cancer is the leading cause of death for women ages 35 to 54.

Cancer is a group of more than 100 different diseases. Cancer occurs when, for unknown reasons, cells become abnormal and multiply without control or order. All parts of the body are made up of cells that normally divide to produce more cells only when the body needs them. When cancer occurs, cells keep dividing even when new cells are not needed.

There are several types of breast cancer. The most common is ductal carcinoma, which begins in the lining of the milk ducts within the breast. Another type, lobular carcinoma, begins in the lobules where breast milk is produced. If a cancerous tumor invades nearby tissue, it is called invasive cancer.

Cancer cells may spread beyond the breast to other lymph nodes, or the bones, liver or lungs. When breast cancer spreads, it is called metastatic breast cancer even though it is found in another part of the body. For example, breast cancer that has spread to the liver is called metastatic breast cancer, not liver cancer.

Doctors can not always explain why one person gets cancer and another does not. Medical researchers are, however, learning about what happens inside cells that may cause cancer. They have identified changes in certain genes within breast cells that can be linked to a higher risk for breast cancer. Genetic changes may be inherited from a parent or may accumulate throughout a person's lifetime. Breast cancer usually begins with a single cell that transforms from normal to malignant over a period of time. Presently, however, no one can predict exactly when cancer will occur or how it will progress.

Every woman has some chance of developing breast cancer during her lifetime. As women get older, those chances increase. Overall, a woman's chance of being diagnosed with breast cancer is 1 out of 8. Even though breast cancer is more common in older women, it also occurs in younger women and even in a small number of men (1,300 cases per year in the U.S.).

While there is yet no preventive to stop breast cancer, early detection is vital to surviving the disease. There are three things women can, and should do. Get an annual mammogram (special X-ray screening) after the age of 50; regular (yearly) breast examination by a doctor; and breast self-examination (BSE) at least once a month.

If breast cancer is detected, it is important to remember there is no single treatment that is "right" for all women. As with most medical conditions, there is no "one-size-fits-all" treatment or cure. And all breast cancers are not alike. Breast cancer is a complex disease. Once breast cancer has been found, more tests will be done to find the specific pattern of your particular cancer. This is an important step called staging.

Knowing the exact stage of your disease will help your doctor plan your course of treatment. Your doctor will want to know: the size of the tumor; if the cancer has spread within your breast; if cancer is present in your underarm lymph nodes; if cancer is present in other parts of your body.

There are many options available and you can always ask more than one doctor about your diagnosis and treatment plan. Your best start is to gain as much knowledge about the disease and the treatments as possible. Find answers to your questions and gain assistance in your fight against a terrifying enemy. Remember, there are no "dumb" questions when you are faced with cancer.

Most women who are treated for early breast cancer go on to live healthy, active, productive lives. The best chance of survival is early detection, so plan for mammograms, have yearly visits with your doctor, and use self-examination frequently. Best wishes for years of good health!

Choosing a Mesothelioma Doctor

Mesothelioma Cancer is considered, within the medical profession, to be a serious illness. Mesothelioma Doctors are now available to those who are sufferers of Mesothelioma Cancer. Mesothelioma Doctors are well educated in the cause of Mesothelioma Cancer, diagnosis of Mesothelioma Cancer, the affects of Mesothelioma Cancer and the available treatment for Mesothelioma Cancer.

Therefore, when choosing a Mesothelioma Doctor, ensure that they have expertise, or quality experience in the area of Mesothelioma Cancer. This can be achieved through your general GP’s general enquiries on your behalf, or through conducting your own research. You might even consider making enquiries with the American Cancer Society, who hold a variety of information about different types of Cancer and where to seek help. When seeking help it is best to research all your available options and then choose the best one for you.

Some of the important information that you might need to tell your Mesothelioma Doctor include, what types of symptoms you are experiencing, how long ago since you were exposure to an Asbestos related substance and for how long where you exposed to the Asbestos related substance. After you receive and initial consultation from your Mesothelioma Doctor, you may be required to undergo either a Chest CT scan, or a biopsy, depending on which type of Mesothelioma Cancer your Mesothelioma Doctor considers that you have.

Essentially, there are three possible types of Mesothelioma Cancer that you could have. These include, Pleural (Lungs) Mesothelioma Cancer, Peritoneal (abdominal) and Pericardial (heart). Once your Mesothelioma Cancer doctor has made a definitive diagnosis, he/she will then be able to tell you which type of Mesothelioma Cancer you have, at what stage the Mesothelioma Cancer is, whether it has spread to surrounding organs, or whether it is contained within the original area of the diseases initiation.

Your Mesothelioma doctor will then discuss your treatment options in relation to the type of Mesothelioma Cancer that you have and what stage the Cancer is at. Your Mesothelioma Doctor should explain these options in detail, including any side affects and the recovery period. Your Mesothelioma Doctor should also explain to you what the results of not undergoing these recommended treatment options could be. Essentially, your Mesothelioma Doctor should give you a detailed explanation of your entire prognosis.

Your prognosis should include details regarding any risks that you may be subjected to, the chances of the Cancer reoccurring following treatment and how long you are expected to survive once treatment has been implemented.

Keep in mind that through ongoing research into Mesothelioma Cancer, treatments are becoming more effective and patients diagnosed with Mesothelioma Cancer, who undergo treatment, are surviving for longer periods of time.

Understanding The Relation Between Asbestos Exposure And Mesothelioma Lung Cancer

An understanding of asbestos is necessary before we try to understand mesothelioma lung cancer. Asbestos, a natural fibrous mineral, used commonly in construction process and manufacturing industries is detrimental to human health. Continuous inhalation of its fibers enhances the susceptibility to respiratory disorders and can lead to many dangerous diseases. A leading example of such dangerous disease is Mesothelioma lung cancer. Actually, mesothelioma lung cancer is misnomer because mesothelioma cancers affect the lining of lungs (pleura) and abdomen and not the lungs. Since mesothelioma cancers mostly affect the lining of the lungs, it is generally called mesothelioma lung cancer. The workers who had worked in industries such as shipbuilding, asbestos mining, and asbestos production are vulnerable to mesothelioma cancers.

Mesothelioma and the Role of Carcinogens:
What is mesothelioma cancer and how does the lining of the lung become cancerous? Cancer is a tumor that is malignant in nature. Tumor is formed when there is abnormal cell division and cell multiplication in the cancerous cells. Exposure to carcinogens or cancer-causing material like cigarette smoke, asbestos and silica dust is instrumental in this abnormal cell division and formation of tumor.

Mesothelioma cancer is directly linked to asbestos exposure. However, those already exposed to asbestos have a greater chance of developing lung cancer if they are exposed to other carcinogens such as cigarette smoke. A study reports that the workers with a history of asbestos exposure and cigarette smoke are more prone to lung cancer than the non-smokers and those with no history of asbestos exposure.

Complications Associated with Mesothelioma Cancer:
Normally, the latency stage for asbestos-related diseases in general and mesothelioma cancers of the lining of lung in particular, 20-50 years, which makes detection of Mesothelioma a complicated issue. This situation is further aggravated particularly where the worker is also addicted to cigarette smoking. By the time, the disease shows its symptoms, a considerable exposure to additional carcinogens linked to cigarette smoking has already taken place. This makes a worker more vulnerable to lung cancer besides the vulnerability to mesothelioma cancers.

Mesothelioma Cancers and Legal Redress:
The Government is conscious of the ill effects of asbestos exposure and the seriousness of mesothelioma cancer. The employees working in factories with significant risk of asbestos exposure are eligible for Mesothelioma compensation, if the exposure is the cause of Mesothelioma. There has been a spate of lawsuits for seeking compensation for mesothelioma and lung cancers. In many cases, the courts have awarded heavy sums as compensation against the asbestos manufacturing companies.

How Diet Influences Cancer Risk

Diet is a double edged sword. Improper diet increases the risk of cancer but a proper, well balanced diet reduces the cancer risk.

Diet is one of the most important lifestyle factors and has been estimated to account for up to 80% of cancers of the large bowel, breast, and prostate. Diet affects the risk of many other cancers, including cancers of the lung, prostate, stomach, esophagus and pancreas.

Prostate Cancer:
High consumption of meat, especially red meat, substantially increases the risk of prostate cancer. Vegetables, especially cooked tomatoes, reduce the risk of prostate cancer. In one clinical trial, the role of Vitamin E as a prostate cancer reducing factor was established. In this study there was a 32% decrease in prostate cancer incidence and 41% decrease in prostate cancer mortality in people receiving Vitamin E supplements when compared to controls.

Breast Cancer:
In Japan, people consume Tofu, a soya product. It contains isoflavones that moderate the estrogen receptors in the body such as breast tissue. The incidence of breast cancer is low in Japan when compared to Western women; only 1/4th of the mortality rate of Western women. Japanese women's low fat diet, high fish consumption and drinking green tea also decrease their breast cancer risk.

One case control study found that regular consumption of soy foods was associated with a marked decrease in breast cancer risk in premenopausal women. No effect in post-menopausal women.

A Japanese case-control study also found that tofu intake (3 times/wk compared with less than 3 times/wk) was associated with decreased risk of breast cancer in premenopausal women. Again, soy intake was not protective against post-menopausal breast cancer.

In one study conducted in America, the relation between soy intake and breast cancer risk found that tofu consumption was protective in both premenopausal and post menopausal Asian women.

Lung Cancer:
Lung cancer risk is substantially decreased by a variety of carotenoids. Carotenoids act as antioxidants and thus minimize cell damage. One study in Boston focused on the effect of different types of carotenoids on lung cancer risk. It was observed that lung cancer risk was significantly lower in subjects who consumed a diet high in a variety of carotenoids. This was especially true with non-smokers who had 63% less risk.

One study conducted in Hawaii reported further evidence for a protective effect from certain carotenoids against lung cancer and that greater protection was afforded by consuming a variety of vegetables compared to only foods rich in a particular carotenoid.

Stomach Cancer:
Nitrates in food and other preservatives added to food including meat are converted into 'nitrites' in the human stomach. The nitrites undergo nitrosation to form 'nitrosamines' and 'nitrosamides'. This increases the risk of stomach cancer in people eating vegetables from nitrate rich soil.

In one study, Vitamin C appeared to protect against the risk of stomach cancer by inhibiting formation of nitrates in stomach.

Cancer of the stomach is 5 times more common in Japanese people compared to Western populations. When Japanese people migrated to the United States, they progressively acquired the low incidence of the US due to changes in their diets.

In one study conducted in Hawaii that involved both Japanese and Caucasians, the stomach cancer risk was associated with consumption of rice, pickled vegetables, and dried/salted fish, and a negative association with vitamin C intake.

One ecological study in Belgium showed a relation between the nitrate and salt consumption and stomach cancer. The analysis of this model showed that the significance of nitrate as a risk factor for stomach cancer mortality increased markedly with higher sodium levels.

Dietary habits and stomach cancer risk was studied in Shanghai, China. According to this study, risks of stomach cancer were inversely associated with high consumption of several food groups, including fresh vegetables and fruits, poultry, eggs, plant oil, and some nutrients such as protein, fat, fiber, tea and antioxidant vitamins.

By contrast, risks increased with increasing consumption of dietary carbohydrates, frequent consumption of preserved, salty or fried foods and hot soup/porridge, with irregular meals, speed eating and binge eating. This provides evidence that diet plays a major role in stomach cancer risk.

No single food can completely prevent cancer but a balanced combination of different groups can help. Appropriate diet can prevent 3-4 million cancers each year.

Haven’t you got your breast cancer awareness bracelet yet ?

By now you should be familiar with the yellow 'LiveStrong' rubber cancer awareness bracelets. They were popularized by seven-time Tour de France cycling champion and cancer survivor Lance Armstrong. The money from their proceeds goes for cancer research.

If he has planning to pitchfork cancer awareness into society's consciousness, Lance Armstrong has done a really good job. His rubber bracelets are ubiquitous today, an ever present awareness tool for cancer, and a fund-raising tool for cancer research.

Among cancer awareness bracelets, next to Armstrong's rubber wristbands come the breast cancer awareness bracelets. However, unlike the 'LiveStrong' rubber band bracelets, these breast cancer awareness bracelets come in different colors. The most popular color for breast cancer awareness bracelets is pink.

But why pink? There is a story behind it: Charlotte Haley, a 68-year-old woman, began making and distributing peach ribbons in the 1990s with cards that read: "The National Cancer Institute annual budget is $1.8 billion, only 5 percent goes for cancer prevention. Help us wake up our legislators and America by wearing this ribbon." Haley's daughter, sister and grandmother had breast cancer. Self magazine wanted to use Haley's ribbon but she refused saying they were too commercial. The magazine came up with another color then -- pink. Focus groups say pink is 'soothing, comforting and healing.' Soon the pink ribbon became the worldwide symbol for breast cancer, and Charlotte Haley's peach ribbon was history.

The National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. says that more than 211,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in America in 2005. Of these 43,300 will die. One woman in eight either has or will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. In addition, 1,600 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 400 will die this year.

However, the breast cancer awareness bracelets can come in all colors, a rainbow of them, depending on the organization or charity selling them. These bracelets usually have some message, such as 'Support Breast Cancer Research And Education' stamped on them.

Well, the breast cancer awareness bracelets needn't be made of rubber or silicone either. The bracelets can be made of pearl, or cats eye, or metal, or any other suitable material. There are even stainless steel breast cancer awareness bracelets! The difference between them is, of course, the price. The rubber ones would sell for around $1 a piece. The metal ones would sell higher. Some pearl breast cancer awareness bracelets sell for around $30 a piece. Such bracelets serve two purposes -- they are jewelry and also spread the message of charity and breast cancer research.

The advantage with rubber breast cancer awareness bracelets, apart from the price, is that they are infinitely customizable. Yes, you can order them in any color and with any message stamped on them. You needn't take them off while washing or playing -- they are all-weather bracelets. And you don't have to worry about losing them, unlike the pearl or cats eye ones. The rubber breast cancer awareness bracelets can be ordered in bulk or bought in packets of a dozen or so from many Web sites.

Prostate cancer; sun and vitamin D

Cancer Centres in USA compared the lifetime sun exposure in men with advanced prostate cancer and men without disease and they suggest that men who had spent more time in the sun they lives were with low risk of prostate cancer.

New studies in prostate cancer indicate that the men who spent more time in the sun in their live usually can reduce prostate cancer in about 50% . About the above point shown that the prostate uses Vitamin D to promote the normal growth of prostate cells and in consequence to slow the spread of prostate cancer cells to others parts of the body.

Sun exposure prevent prostate cancer and the new research suggest vitamin D in supplement may be a safer option today for men.

Previous studies have shown that many places which long winter like Canada and North America men do not adsorb Vitamin D and others nutrients. In Canada men do not adsorb vitamin D in consequence one of the seven can develop prostate cancer in their lives; USA new researches indicate that one of the five men can develop prostate cancer.

Researchers shown that vitamin D has many micronutrients promote and prevent the prostate cancer in men.

Should We Treat Cancer or Prevent Cancer?

Cancer is one of the biggest killers around the world. In America alone, 25% of all deaths are related to cancer. Many people think of cancer as a single problem but in fact, it is a number of problems spread throughout the body. Generally speaking, if cancer is caught in the early stages of development, it can be treated and cured.

Although there are several different types of cancer, the most common ones are Lung, Prostate, Breast, Testicular, Skin and Colon cancers. Genes control the multiplication and growth of cells. If these genes are defective in the first place, then the cells will not be able to grow or divide properly. As a result of this abnormality, cancerous cells are born.

There are a number of factors which cause cancer. Factors which are controllable by humans are smoking, toxic elements and radiation. These can be controlled to some degree and therefore it would be wise to avoid them by changing lifestyle habits. However, there are certain elements which are outside our control. These include mutation and inherited DNA.

As a result of studies conducted by the American Cancer Society, more than 180,000 people have died as a direct result of smoking. Another 200,000 people have died due to lack of changing lifestyle habits. Obesity, laziness and malnutrition can have an effect on the growth of cancer. Needless to say, cancer has risen by more than 50% since 1995.

Let's take a look at some of these cancer causes in more detail.
Smoking: The most prevalent and easily avoidable type of cancer is the one caused by the use of tobacco. This includes the use of cigarettes, cigars and pipes. Even though smokers are addicted to nicotine, the fact that 200,000 people die every year due to smoking caused cancer should be enough motivation to quit. Some experts say that cessation of smoking can increase lifespan by up to 20 years.

Although nothing has been proven, studies indicate that stress may also be a contributing factor to cancer. Many cancer patients are also employed in stressful jobs. Some theologians believe that stress lowers the bodies immunity to cancer.

Exercise and Healthy Eating: Healthy eating and exercise is universally known to be beneficial in many aspects. But, many people don't know that food full of nutrition can reduce the risk of cancer. Specific foods such as fruit and veg can help prevent cancer whilst fatty foods such as meat can increase the likelihood of cancer.

Skin cancer can easily be avoided by simply listening to good advice. Wear sunglasses, hats, sun cream and other sensible items of clothing to avoid the onset of this type of cancer. Although this may seem like common sense, more than one million people have been diagnosed with skin cancer in a single year.

In summary, some cancers can be avoided. New research and studies are being conducted all the time. So, rather than concentrating on how to treat cancer patients, maybe we should all be looking for more ways to prevent the cancer in the first place.

Male Breast Cancer - what you should know about!

Have you know, that the breast cancer can also catch the man? Yes - it's really true! Have a look on the last news!

The special Risk Factors for Male Breast Cancer

• Only approximately 1-1.5% of all breast cancer cases occur in men.
• Several risk factors have been identified that make some men more likely to develop breast cancer than others.
  

These risk factors include: The average age of men diagnosed with breast cancer is between 60 and 70 years old.
The history of the family: 20% of men with breast cancer have close female relatives who have (or have had) breast cancer.

The Radiation exposure: Prior exposure to radiation (usually for treatment of a cancer) is a risk factor for male breast cancer.

The Liver disease: If the liver is normal function, she helps with hormone metabolism by binding proteins that carry hormones in the blood. If the Man's has liver diseases such as cirrhosis, they tend to have lower levels of androgens (male hormones) and on the other hand a higher estrogens levels (female hormones).This reality puts them at an increased risk of developing gynecomastia (non-cancerous tissue growth) and breast cancer.

Symptoms Male Breast Abnormalities :

• The most male breast changes are due to benign (non-cancerous) abnormalities, such as gynecomastia (non-cancerous tissue growth)
• So, the men should report any persistent breast changes to their physicians for clinical evaluation.
• The Symptoms of male breast cancer may include:
• a breast lump,
• swelling,
• skin dimpling or puckering,
• nipple retraction (the nipple turns inward),
• redness or scaling of the nipple or breast skin,
• and nipple discharge http://imaginis.com/breasthealth/nipple.asp.
  

How to treating Male Breast Cancer : This will be depending on the type and stage http://imaginis.com/breasthealth/staging.asp of breast cancer.

The following treatment will most likely be used: Surgery - Radiation therapy - Chemotherapy - Hormone therapy

About the Survival Rates for Male Breast Cancer
Today, the survival rates are similar the women cancer, when the treatment of the tumour begins at the same stage. Anyway, the male breast cancer tends to be diagnosed in later stages than female breast cancer.

The following chart is an approximate survival rate for each stage of breast cancer. The percentages are only averages. The chances of survival will differ for each man depending on his own medical situation and several other factors, including new treatment options, how he responds to treatment, etc.

STAGE 1 TUMOR SIZE less than 2 cm No Lymph Node 5year Survivalrate 100 %
STAGE 2 TUMOR SIZE Between 2-5 cm No Lymph Node 5year Survivalrate 95 %
STAGE 3 TUMOR SIZE More than 5 cm No Lymph Node 5year Survivalrate 84 %
Stage 4 TUMOR SIZE not applicable YES Survivalrate 52 %

All about the Planning Treatment and the Research . More about this you get it on http://imaginis.com/breasthealth/staging.asp#what

Additional Resources and References

• The American Cancer Society provides information on male breast cancer at http://www.cancer.org/
• The National Cancer Institute provides information on male breast cancer at http://www.cancer.gov/
• The University of Pennsylvania's Oncolink document, "NCI/PDQ Physician Statement: Male Breast Cancer," is available at http://cancer.med.upenn.edu/