Symptoms of Cancer

Cancer is one of the deadliest sicknesses everyone fears. Not only will the person experience a painful death but also a tragic ending to all your savings. That is why it is very important to have knowledge about the different signs and symptoms of certain cancers so that at an early stage you can still be able to overcome it and no longer have to go through painful medications and treatments. I have listed below some of the common signs and symptoms to help curious people like you.

1. Fever - This is on of the common signs but mostly occurs after the cancer has spread from its origin. The majority of cancer patients will experience fever at some point of time and makes it more difficult for the immune system to fight the infection. Fever is one of the early signs of certain cancers like blood cancer.

2. Strange weight loss - Those who have cancer will experience a sudden loss in weight for no reason. This is called "unexplained weight loss". This is usually the first sign of cancer and mostly happens with cancers of the lung, stomach or pancreas.

3. Permanent Sores - This is visible to certain cancers like skin cancer wherein your sores keep on bleeding. This should be treated immediately, especially with smokers and drinkers.

4. Abnormal Discharge - Unusual bleeding on certain parts of the body may also be signs of early cancer. This may affect the different parts of the body like blood in the phlegm that constitutes to lung cancer or blood in the stool that may be a symptom of colon cancer.

5. Thickening of Certain Body Parts - Majority of cancers can be seen through the skin. The thickening of the skin commonly happens in the breasts, lymph nodes, testicles and body tissues.

6. Swallowing Difficulties - This is where the person undergoes troubles in swallowing and digesting the food that they eat. This may possibly lead to cancer of esophagus.

It is very hard to battle against cancer because it does not only affect your body but also your mind and emotions. That's why presence of mind is indeed needed to be able to surpass this sickness. There are also a lot of precautionary methods you can do to avoid having cancer like having a regular check up with your doctor so that you can monitor your health. Another best thing to do is to have insurance. There are many of health insurance companies in the neighbourhood today who are willing to offer and help us get the best benefits that we will need in order to have a more economical way of treating our medications and health benefits.

Daryl G. Dela Cruz is a well-known author who writes blogs and articles. Visit his latest article about health insurance companies today!

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Colorectal Cancer Survival Rate

In the United States, the colorectal cancer survival rate is more agreeable amongst female patients than males. Whether the female patient is from Caucasian or African decent, the colorectal cancer survival rate is around 65%, a tad ten percent higher than their male counterparts whose rate of survival ranges from 53-55% only.

A 5 year colorectal cancer survival rate refers to the number or percentage of people who remain living 5 years after the disease was determined and treated. What most researchers do is go through all the records of cancer patients diagnosed with this type of cancer 5 years ago and count the ratio of those who are alive now to those who have been deceased as a result of the cancer.

According to the relative report released by emedtv for the research they conducted from the year 1996-2002, the colorectal cancer survival rate at:

‧ Stage 1 is around 90%. The main reason behind this is the same as the reason why most patients during this stage have good prognosis - the disease has not yet spread and is easily controlled by removing the affected part. In the case of cancer of the colon and rectum, the patient will undergo resection of the colon to remove the segment affected with the disease and reconnect the cut ends afterwards.

‧ Stage 2 and 3 is around 68%. Despite treatment, the rate is still pretty low because the disease has proliferated at this time. The basic fact about cancer is - the wider the spread, the more difficult to eradicate it. Common treatments at this stage are surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Although they may help in detaining or slowing the progression of the disease, it may still develop.

‧ Stage 4 is around 10%. Around 20 percent of all colorectal cancer patients are diagnosed at the last stage. This is a concern of many medical practitioners thus frequent campaigns to increase cancer awareness have become a mission of most cancer societies. Once the cancer cells metastasize, it may heavily affect the most vital organs in our body including the kidneys, liver and spinal cord.

Colorectal cancer sure is a killer disease. Like any types of cancer, it will affect the richest and the poorest and will disregard your position or status in society. Healthy living is what medical practitioners always advise to combat this disease. With colorectal cancer, change in the diet plan is imperative.

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Breast Cancer and Health Insurance

Even though death rates due to breast cancer have steadily decreased since 1990, almost 40,000 women were expected to die of breast cancer in 2010. This form of cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States and it has been estimated that one in eight females will develop this condition. Still, with almost 2.5 million breast cancer survivors in the United States in 2010, more women are surviving than ever because of good health insurance plans that cover mammograms and other cancer treatments.

There are factors women cannot control like genetics, ethnicity, or mutations, but there are ways to significantly decrease your risk of developing life-threatening stages of cancer. To ensure you or your doctor find any abnormalities early on you should:
Get a mammogram and clinical breast exam regularly. This may be yearly depending on your age and could help catch early stages of cancer before it spreads.Perform self breast exams regularly at home and report any lumps or other unusual findings to your doctorIn general, you should get a yearly mammogram if you are over the age of 40 and every three years if you are under the age of 40. You have a higher risk of cancer as you get older.

Women should make sure they have the necessary health insurance coverage in case they develop breast cancer at some point in their lifetime. Your insurance should cover mammograms and other treatment procedures if you are ever diagnosed with breast cancer. Having health insurance you can count on is crucial for individuals diagnosed with serious conditions like cancer, and it can be difficult or impossible to find affordable coverage if you wait until you have already been diagnosed.

For more information about health insurance for breast cancer patients, visit the website of the health insurance experts at Health Insurance of California.

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Fueling the Immune System for Faster, Deeper Healing From Cancer

The Body

Diet and Nutrition:
Let's start by looking at the role your diet plays in immune health. Studies point to over 30% of all cancers now being directly related to diet. You have all heard about free radicals - they are bad! Under normal circumstances, they are naturally produced and destroyed by the body's usual functions. However excessive amounts of free radicals may exist due to exposure to carcinogens, various toxins, radiation and improper digestion. Among other things, free radicals damage immune cells and interfere with internal communication. Antioxidants are the solution for blocking free radicals. There is a lot of research now regarding the great healing power of many foods that produce antioxidant effects in the body. A few stand out as super performers and should be included in your diet on a regular, if not daily basis. This is the list of the top performers from the book Foods that Fight Cancer by Dr. Richard Beliveau; brussel sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, garlic, onine, spinach, watercress, flax seeds, tomato paste (and cooked tomatoes), turmeric, black pepper, fresh berries (blue, black and raspberries), dried cranberries, grapes, dark chocolate (70% cacao) citrus fruit juice, foods containing high levels of omega 3, green tea and red wine. The ones that have the biggest impact on the immune system are; turmeric (it is even more powerful when combined with black pepper), citrus fruits and omega 3 concentrated foods (fatty fish, fish oils, olive oil, hemp seeds, walnuts). For more detailed information of the impact of food on cancer cells I would highly recommend reading Dr. Beliveau's book.

Two Key Vitamins:
Immune health is also influenced by certain vitamins. Vitamin C helps build the immune response as does vitamin D. Vitamin C is needed for the formation of certain hormones, for the production of lymphocytes (white blood cells), and to protect the body against bacteria and viruses. It is also a powerful anti-oxidant. It is water-soluble so your body is not able to store it in adequate quantities in the body. This is why it is important to ensure adequate daily intake. Six servings of fruits and vegetables per day is likely sufficient. On days when you feel you are not getting enough in your diet or if you are feeling run down you can take vitamin C supplements. Try not to consume refined sugar at the same time as your vitamin C supplement (for example the fizzy Vitamin C tablets). Vitamin C and sugar have a similar chemical structure so the two compete to enter the cells. When there is lots of sugar, less vitamin C will be absorbed and your system simply flushes it out.

Vitamin D is a powerful antimicrobial agent - in other words it helps kills various bacteria, viruses and fungi. It also helps with the absorption of calcium and has been proven effective against several forms of cancer. The best way to get vitamin D is through exposure to sun. Try to go outside without sunscreen for at least 10 minutes per day, ideally 20 minutes. In the winter, when the sun is not as strong (especially in the northern regions) supplements will likely be necessary. Liquid vitamin D is the best source and most easily absorbed. Remember sunscreens block out vitamin D and sunglasses also limit its absorption.

The Importance of Good Bacteria:
Eighty percent of the immune activity takes place in the intestines where good bacteria fights off foreign invaders and infections. Chemotherapy drugs, often kill off good bacteria so it is important to ensure you have a good source of probiotics in your diet. Yogurt companies are going crazy with claims of billions per gram but you must ensure that the bacteria is live in order to it to be effective. I suggest a probiotic supplement be taken on a daily basis. Check at your local health store for a good brand that has two strands of bacteria and at least 10 billion live bacteria. You will find them in the refrigerator section as they are live cultures.

Walk Every Day:
Research is now showing a link between moderate, regular exercise and a strong immune response. Exercise, especially weight bearing exercise, is good for stimulating the production of bone marrow. Bone marrow is the source of all immune cells for the body. As you exert weight on the long bones of your body it helps keep your bones strong and stimulates production of the bone marrow to fuel immune cell production. Choose an activity that you love to do; walk, jog or dance. Then find someone that you enjoy doing it with - a friend, your dog or do it on your own and make it your time to focus on your body and empty your mind!

If you are just too tired to exercise, try just walking around the block everyday, maybe twice a day. Then increase the number of times around the block as your energy builds and your stamina increases. There may be days when even this is too much. On those days, simply honour the messages from your body, without being hard on yourself, and give your body the love and rest it needs.

The Emotional Angle

Attitude Does Matter!
Now let's look briefly at the emotional side of the immune building story. Research has shown that immune response is affected by emotions. Simply put, you can think of the immune system - its strength and vitality - as a reflection of your emotional state. Everyone has heard stories of people dying after their loved ones pass away, otherwise known as dying of a broken heart. Well it may be more accurate to say they died of a 'depressed' immune system. Studies have shown the link between specific negative emotions and the immune response. The most detrimental emotions are feelings of hopelessness or helplessness, like feeling trapped or stuck, with no control over the outcome of events. The next article in this series will address the emotional side of healing in more detail but in summary the more hope, the more joy, the more love and laughter you can bring into your life during your healing journey the more you are encouraging and stimulating your immune system.

The Spiritual Aspect

The Healing Power of Meditation:
I started meditating about 15 years ago. The first and most impressive benefit I experienced was the boost in my immune system that the meditation facilitated through the deep rest it provides. I went from having back to back colds to feeling healthy and almost never getting sick. Over the years, I also noticed that when I did get an occasional cold, it do not knock me out. I experienced only minor symptoms and they passed quickly.

So if there is one thing I would recommend you add to your daily routine is two sessions of 10 to 20 minutes of silence. If quietening your mind sounds like an insurmountable challenge, then I suggest you find a good guided meditation. On my website I have a 15 minute immune booster guided relaxation and imagery session that you can listen to free of charge. The imagery (visualizing and stimulating the other senses) part of the session is also very beneficial as you are literally sending and reinforcing powerful messages to your body. To see how quickly the body responds to our thoughts you just have to think about watching a scary movie - as your fear increases so does your heart rate and your palms automatically start to sweat. Similarly, as you imagine your immune cells being mobilized, your body is automatically receiving and acting on the message.

The Importance of True Relaxation:
The other important thing to understand is that when we exercise, either the mind or the body, we are stimulating the sympathetic nervous system. Even when we relax or de-stress it is often while doing things that continue to stimulate us like having a glass of wine, watching TV or exercising - again exciting the sympathetic nervous system. This is the part of the nervous system that is like the gas pedal in a car. Because of our busy lifestyles, the sympathetic system is usually over stimulated and an internal imbalance is created. The parasympathetic nervous system on the other hand is stimulated when we are resting, quiet or relaxed and is usually under stimulated or neglected. Think of it as a muscle, if it does not get used enough it will get weak and won't be as responsive. A daily meditation or relaxation practice (even if you start with just 5 minutes) allows you to strengthen your parasympathetic system and stimulate your immune or relaxation response. This stimulation helps creates more balance and a stronger immune response.

Please visit my web site http://www.cancershift.com/ and listen to the Immune Booster and guided relaxation session or visit http://www.peacefullife.ca/ for other guided meditations.

The final part of this four article series will be published under the following heading:
Part 4: The Emotional Side of the Cancer Healing Equation
Please watch for it!

Jackie is a Cancer SHIFT coach and creator of the Cancer SHIFT program. She specializes in, and is passionate about, helping empower people with cancer to shift from 'fighting' and struggling with cancer to facilitating deep healing. She helps women who feel stuck in some part of their life, get unblocked, speak their truth and stimulate their own healing process. She is a Meditation Teacher, certified Yoga Teacher and True Purpose Life Coach. She has also pursued studies in Spiritual Meditation, Ayurvedic Medicine, Creative Meditation and Visualization, Reiki, Spiritual Psychotherapy and Psycho-oncology.

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Colon Cancer Stages - Colon Cancer Survival Rate

When someone has experienced having inflammatory bowel disease, there is a huge possibility that the person will have an increased risk percentage of having cancer of the colon. While cancer of the colon is one of the easiest cancer types to be prevented from occurring, colon cancer stages are very decisive to identify because they are most often diagnosed when the symptoms are already inconvenient and bothersome. Colon cancer survival rate is lower when one is diagnosed in the later stage.

Colon cancer stages are divided into four unique stages. Each of these stages varies in colon cancer survival rate. The earliest stage of cancer of the colon is called stage 0. During this stage, the malignant cancer cells are just in the lining or mucosa of the rectum and confined in the polyp. Polypectomy is done in order to remove the cancer cells so that they would not progress on the later stages.

The Stage 1 cancer of the colon occurs when the polyp that contains the cancer cells have evolved and became a tumor that extends to the colon or rectum walls. During this stage, the advisable treatment would have to be the removal of the section of the colon that is considered to be infected by the malignant cancer cells. The five - year colon cancer survival rate for this stage is at 95% chance of cure.

Stage 2 colorectal cancer happens when the cancer tumor has spread and has affected the tissues surrounding the colon. Resection surgery is given to the patient in order to treat them of their current ordeal. Survival rates during this stage are very unfortunate; the statistics is just 60 percent chance of cure.

Stage 3 cancer of the colon is when the malignant cells have spread outside the tissues or the colon and have infected the lymph nodes surrounding the colon as well. The Treatments given to patients at this stage are aggressive in order to cope up with spread of the malignant cancer cells. Aside from the surgical operation, chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be given to the patient in order to extend their life and be cured. Rate of survival during this stage drops down to 35 percent.

Stage 4 cancer of the colon occurs when the cancer cells have expanded and infected already the different systems of the body. Aside from the surgical resection and chemotherapy, radiation treatment and surgery is also done to the other infected parts of the body. Cancer of the colon during this stage drops down in a very poor 3 percent survival rate.

For more colon cancer stages and colon cancer survival rate, visit Colon Cancer Survival Rate.

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Fight Colon Cancer With A Healthy Diet

People who concentrate on veggies in their diet are at less risk of developing colon cancer than those whose diet is made up of mainly meats.

It goes without say therefore that the best way to reduce your risk of colon cancer is to eat more fruits, whole grain and vegetables. 5 servings a day of such healthy foods is the recommended daily serving according to the American Cancer Society.

It can be hard to tell what diet components you should focus on to prevent such dangerous diseases. Bile acids in the body for instance are increased by fats and this in turn increases rapid call growth.

If one wants to increase their bowel movement then they will have to increase their intake of foods rich in fiber. This will in turn be responsible for decreasing the amount of bile acids and carcinogens in the body.

One of the best foods for preventing colon cancer is oat bran. Vegetables and fruits are lower in fibrous content than oat bran.

25 grams of dietary fiber a day is one of the best protections that you can employ against risk of colon cancer. You can get this from breads, cereals and vegetables,

To diffuse the bile and fatty acids in your body you should take at least 1000 milligrams of calcium every day. Taking fruits and vegetables will also boost the antioxidants in your body that will reduce your chances of getting cancer.

The body always needs exercise if it is to work properly. Doing at least 30 minutes of exercise everyday will make sure that you have an increased amount of blood flow to your colon and also aid in the passage of waste through your body.

You will have to practice good body cleansing habits that will remove the various toxins from your body. A clean colon will be able to absorb the nutrients from your food better.

The best way to a healthier body is to maintain a clean well-functioning colon.

Make your pregnancy exciting, fun and easy. Wear fashionable and trendy maternity leggings, and find the best maternity pillows that you can use to get a good night sleep.

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German Cancer Breakthrough

An investigative report on the remarkable successes achieved by six outstanding German cancer clinics, including one visited by President Reagan when he had cancer.

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Meditation and Cancer : Does it Help?

Dr Jacqui Dodds shares her research and recounts the journeys of six people with a cancer diagnosis who use meditation as part of their healing strategy. Share their highs, lows, hope and acceptance and get a close up picture of how meditation can help.

Check it out!

What Actually Happens When You Eat Meat - The Link Between Meat-Eating And Cancer

What actually happens when you eat meat?

The most blood-thickening agent is food protein, particularly if it is derived from an animal source. Let us assume you eat a medium-sized piece of steak, chicken or fish (cadaver protein). When compared to a carnivorous animal like a lion or a wolf, your stomach can produce only the relative amount of 1/20 of the hydrochloric acid needed to digest such a concentrated protein meal. In addition, the relative concentration of the hydrochloric acid in cats or wolves is at least five times higher than in humans. A cat or wolf can easily eat and digest the bones of a chicken, whereas humans cannot. Most of the cadaver's protein, therefore, will pass undigested into the small intestine where it will either putrefy (80%) or enter the bloodstream (20%).

The liver is able to break down some of the absorbed protein, which forms the waste products urea and uric acid. This waste matter is passed on to the kidneys for excretion with the urine. However, with regular consumption of animal proteins, including meat, poultry, fish, eggs, cheese, and milk, more and more intrahepatic stones are formed in the bile ducts of the liver. This greatly reduces the liver's ability to break down these proteins. (Stones in the bile ducts and gallbladder can be removed safely and painlessly through a series of liver flushes)

Protein foods are among the most acid-forming and blood-thickening foods of all. Therefore, when a major portion of the protein ends up circulating in the blood, it will, of course, thicken the blood. To avoid the danger of a heart attack or stroke, the body will attempt to dump the protein into the fluid surrounding the cells (tissue fluid or connective tissue). This thins the blood and averts the imminent danger of serious cardiovascular complications, at least for the time being. However, the dumped protein begins to turn the intercellular fluid into a gel-like substance. In this condition, nutrients that are trying to make their way to the cells may be caught in the thick soup, which increases the risk of cell death due to starvation.

How the body copes

The body tries to avoid cell death by initiating another, even more sophisticated, survival response, which is next to ingenious. To remove the proteins from the intercellular fluid, the body rebuilds the protein and converts it into collagen fiber, which is 100% protein. In this form, the body is able to build the protein into the basal membrane of the blood vessel walls. While accommodating the excessive protein, the basal membrane may become up to eight times as thick as is normal. Once, the capillary walls are saturated with the protein or collagen fiber, the basal membranes of the arteries start doing the same. This eventually, leads to a hardening of the arteries, which is the cause of heart disease, strokes and high cholesterol.

Now the body must face an even greater challenge. The thick walls of the capillaries (and possibly, the arteries) have become an obstruction, blocking the nutrient supply to the cells. The blood vessel walls increasingly prevent oxygen, glucose, and even water from penetrating the protein barricades, thus depriving cells of their bare nutrient essentials. Less glucose makes its way to the cells. As a result, cell metabolism drops to a lower level of efficiency, and waste production increases, similar to a car engine that has not been tuned properly or given quality gas or oil.

In addition to congesting the blood vessel walls, another complicating factor comes into play. Part of the excessive protein is absorbed by the lymphatic ducts that accompany every blood capillary. These lymph ducts and their attached lymph nodes are designed to remove and detoxify the normal amounts of cell-generated metabolic waste products. They also take away the cellular debris resulting from the daily destruction of over 30 billion worn-out cells. Since cells are composed of proteins, much of the collected waste is already filled with old cell protein. Being forced to take up extra protein from ingested foods like meat, fish, or milk simply overtaxes the entire lymphatic system and leads to the stagnation of lymph flow and fluid retention. Consequently, the congested lymph ducts are increasingly disabled as they attempt to take up the cells' metabolic waste products. This, in turn, leads to a higher concentration of metabolic waste material in the fluid surrounding the cells.

Suffocation in Progress

The consequence of waste buildup in the cell environment is that cells not only become deprived of oxygen and other vital nutrients, but they also begin to suffocate in their own waste. The dramatic change of the cell environment leaves them with no other choice but to mutate into 'abnormal' cells,given the circumstances.

Cell mutation does not occur because the genes of the cell had a bad day and decided to play malignant. Genes do not switch themselves on and off without a reason. Genetic blueprints have no control or power to do anything. They are merely there to help the cell reproduce itself. However, the genetic blueprint becomes naturally altered when the environment of the cell undergoes major changes. By drastically reducing the concentration of oxygen in the cell environment, out of necessity the genes generate a new blueprint that enables them to survive without oxygen and instead use some of the metabolic waste products for energy. Mutated cells can take up, for example, lactic acid, and by metabolizing it, they are able to cover some of their energy needs. Although this abnormal type of cell metabolism has harmful side effects, by doing this, the body can avert, at least for a little while, the fatal poisoning of the affected organ or the blood. By keeping at least some of the oxygen-deprived cells alive through cell mutation, the organ is safeguarded against irreversible and sudden collapse and failure. All of these adaptations make cancer a survival mechanism to keep the person alive for as long as circumstances permit.

[This is an excerpt from the book 'Cancer is not a Disease, It's a Survival Mechanism' by Andreas Moritz]

Andreas Moritz is a writer and practitioner in the field of Integrative Medicine. He is the author of 13 books ( http://www.ener-chi.com/book.htm ) on various subjects pertaining to holistic health, including 'The Amazing Liver and Gallbladder Flush', 'Timeless Secrets of Health and Rejuvenation' and 'Ending The AIDS Myth'.

His most recent book is titled 'Vaccine-Nation: Poisoning the Population, One Shot at a Time'. Moritz is also the creator of Ener-Chi Art and Sacred Santemony.

Much of his life's work has been dedicated to understanding and treating the root causes of illness, and helping the body, mind, spirit and heart to heal naturally.

Connect with Andreas at: http://www.facebook.com/enerchi.wellness

Copyright c 2011 by Andreas Moritz

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Can a Bra Cause Cancer?

Well it would seem, according to Singer and Grismaijer authors of 'Dressed to Kill' that the answer to this may very well be, probably. These two researchers conducted a study a few years ago into the bra-wearing habits of 4000 American women, which produced some interesting results.

They studied two groups of women from 4 different cities. The first group were cancer free, the second either had Breast Cancer or were survivors of it. They then looked into the bra wearing habits of the women, basically how many hours a day the women wore a bra, then cross referenced this with the cancer V no cancer numbers.

The results were as follows:-

Did not wear a bra at all - in the cancer group 0.24% - in the non-cancer group 5%Wore a Bra less than 12 hours a day - in the cancer group 1% - in the non-cancer group 19%Wore a Bra more than 12 hours a day, but not to bed - 81% of the cancer group - 73% of the non-cancer groupWore a Bra 24 hours a day - 18% of the cancer group - 3% of the non-cancer group.

Looking at these results it is hard not to see there is something going on here, as in each case the non-cancer group fared better (less time in a bra, the less cancer). However, quite what that something is, is the question?

It is suggested, that a bra constricts, squashes and damages the lymph nodes that are contained in and around the breast area. If damaged, these nodes which are an important part of your body's immune system and are responsible for draining away toxins from the body, can no longer work. Thus toxins do not get removed and there is a build up of this toxic fluid (inflammation) in the area, which as we all know, is not a good thing. Tissue regularly exposed to this toxic fluid, can degenerate and could become cancer.

So sounds reasonable, and if you are one of the people whose bra does not quite fit right (and that's most of us), you will no doubt have seen the indents left by your bra when you remove it.

So who or what to believe?

The thing is, this research was not medical, was not published in a medical journal and has been criticized by the medical profession as the study did not factor in such things as age, family history and medical history.

Myself I take no comfort in the fact the medical profession is very negative towards this research, that tends to be their default stance and there is no medical proof to the contra. Also, as someone who refused to have her own lymph nodes removed during cancer treatment (I am a firm believer in the power of a healthy lymphatic system), I am leaning towards this being a possibility.

Clearly, if we just look at the Over 12 hours V Under 12 hours figures, 19 times as many women got cancer if they wore a bra more than 12 hours, which is HUGE!

So why not ditch the bra?

For me, as bra wearing is not a habit of mine generally, it is easy to embrace this with a "why not" attitude. However, I can see this is more difficult for some than others, particularly larger women. So, rather than dismiss the possibility outright, why not try changing to a no underwire, well fitted version instead? Or perhaps cut down on the number of hours per day, by electing to not wear a bra when at home?

Let's face it girls, what harm could it do?

Because who knows - maybe, just maybe, Singer and Grismaijer are onto something.

Coach Lin
Copyright c Helping Hand-Life Coaching 2011

Hi my name is Lin Elliott, I am a 10 yr cancer survivor and Life Coach. I help to empower people in their walk away from cancer, providing the support, hope and guidance needed at a time when there is none. Working closely with my clients, we find ways to cope with issues and rebuild lives worth living. Lives free of the baggage, with exciting futures once more on the horizon. For more information: http://www.helpinghand-lifecoaching.com/96612.html

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Kids With Cancer - One Type Being Thyroid Cancer

The thyroid gland is located at the base of the throat just below the Adam's apple. The butterfly shaped gland has two lobes joined by a strip of tissue called the isthmus. The function of the thyroid gland is to produce the thyroid hormones, thyroxine, triiodothyronine and calcitonin.

When evaluating children with a thyroid nodule, they are usually divided into either prepubertal or post-pubertal allowing to make some distinctions. Children will usually present perfectly healthy but will have a lump or nodule in the thyroid and/or hard persistent swollen lymph glands in the neck. If the nodule is large the child may have trouble breathing or swallowing and have a hoarse voice.

The 3 types of thyroid cancer in children:

Papillary cancer is the form of cancer that occurs in the cells that produce thyroid hormones containing iodine. It is the most common of thyroid cancers in children. Although it grows very slowly it can spread to the lymph nodes via lymphatics in the neck and occasionally may spread to other areas.
Follicular cancer also develops in the cells that produce thyroid hormones containing iodine. This type of thyroid cancer is more common in the slightly older age group and less so in children. It may spread to the neck via blood vessels, causing it to spread to other areas of the body, making it more difficult to control.
Medullary cancer is a rare form of cancer that develops in the cells that produce the hormone calcitonin. In children, usually the older age group, this cancer is usually associated with specific inherited genetic conditions. It is the fastest growing type of thyroid cancer and the abnormal cells grow and spread quickly to the neck area.

As a parent, if symptoms present themselves,take the child to the doctor. The doctor will then examine the head and neck area, looking for unusual lumps or nodules.

To determine the production of the thyroid hormones blood testing will be done.

Ultrasound imagining may be ordered to create an image of the neck area to have a better look at the thyroid gland and the lymph nodes. The ultra sound is normally followed by a needle biopsy if necessary to determine the cause of the lump.

A radioactive iodine scan providing information about the thyroid function and areas of the gland that do not absorb iodine normally is sometimes warranted.

Treatment for this condition in children will usually be surgery and possibly followed by radioactive iodine treatment to destroy any remaining cancerous thyroid tissue.

For more information on thyroid cancer, the symptoms and treatment please go to http://www.fucoidanforhealth.com/

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New Options for Breast Cancer Treatment

To successfully treat breast cancer therapies must be designed individually and strategically in order to outsmart the disease and restore a patient's health. The problem is that many treatments are so invasive and aggressive that they can destroy the health of the patient along with the disease. However, new developments in breast cancer treatment are showing promise as less invasive options that can help a patient fight cancer and protect the integrity of their health at the same time.

New Targeted Radiation Therapies Kill Cancer Cells and Protect Healthy Tissue

Radiation is the standard form of care after breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) for women under 70 years of age, and there are several options that are being studied and are currently available in some facilities. Intra-operative Radiation (IOP), for example, is a technique that applies radiation to the affected area during surgery. The radiation is focused directly on the surgical field and spares surrounding healthy tissue. This is a highly desirable option, as it can replace the typical 5-6 weeks of post-lumpectomy radiation usually recommended, but not every individual is a candidate.

Accelerated Partial Breast Irradiation (APBI) is another approach being developed that uses small catheters that are inserted into the cavity left by the lumpectomy procedure. There are several systems being used with different variations in equipment and technique. This is a form of brachytherapy, which uses radioactive seeds to deliver the radiation. Five days of this technique replaces six weeks of whole breast radiation, greatly limiting the exposure of healthy tissue to radiation. This can be a significant advantage, particularly for women with left -sided breast cancer, as the usual whole breast radiation technique can impact heart tissue as well as the lungs, ribs and skin.

Freeze Cancer in its Tracks

Cryotherapy is a technique that uses a probe to freeze the abnormal and surrounding tissue, and has been used for many years in treating cervical dysplasia and prostate cancer. Application to breast cancer lesions is a new development for this therapy, but it has the potential to become a less invasive option than surgical removal for treating early breast cancer. Researchers at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center conducted a study last year using mice with breast cancer lesions and found that rapid freezing not only killed the tumors, but generated an immune response that helped stop further spreading. This result ultimately led to improved survival when compared to surgery. Cryotherapy treatment for breast cancer is currently available in a limited number of centers throughout the United States.

Microwave Radar Targets Just the Tumor Sites

Another technique in development uses radar technology. The microwave energy from a powerful device is focused on the tumor, sparing healthy surrounding tissue. This form of therapy works by taking advantage of the fact that water molecules are more plentiful in breast tumors, compared to surrounding normal tissue, and that microwaves strongly excite water molecules. Computer algorithms combined with the heating effects on water-rich abnormal tissue allow an even greater concentration of energy at the tumor site while nearby tissue remains unaffected. This technology is in clinical trials in a setting where pretreatment of larger tumors would allow a lumpectomy rather than a mastectomy. This is traditionally performed with pre-surgical chemotherapy. In a Phase II trial comparing chemotherapy with this technology, almost 80 percent of treated breast tumors had a volume reduction of 80 percent or more, compared to only 20 percent of tumors treated by chemotherapy alone. In addition, this method appears to sensitize tumors to the effects of chemotherapy. The device has been approved by the FDA for a Phase III trial and once this is successfully completed, it should be well on its way to being launched.

New Treatments, New Hope

These breast cancer treatment techniques are forming the basis for further highly targeted and strategic cancer fighting methods to emerge within mainstream medicine. The cross-field discussion amongst professionals in physics, engineering and medicine is generating much needed creative collaborations that are offering hope for techniques and equipment that can provide less invasive, more focused treatment with significantly less damage to healthy tissues.

For more information about breast cancer diagnosis and treatment options, download a complimentary wellness guide at http://www.dreliaz.org/breast-cancer-report. Know that there are a number of treatment options available to help you gain the best possible outcome, and this knowledge is power.

Dr. Isaac Eliaz is a respected author, lecturer, researcher, product formulator, and clinical practitioner. He has been a pioneer in the field of integrative medicine since the early 1980s. Dr. Eliaz is a frequent guest lecturer on integrative medical approaches to health, immune enhancement, and cancer prevention and treatment. For more information, visit http://www.dreliaz.org/.

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What You Need to Know Regarding Brain Tumors

Brain - It is a spongy bunch of tissue, and is sheltered by the skull with 3 thin membranes that is called the meninges. The diluted fluid that is known as the cerebrospinal fluid protects the brain. The fluids will flow throughout the spaces in between the meninges and to spaces within brains that is known to be the ventricles.

Cancer - it started with cells, which is the main component that builds up tissues. The tissues that is responsible for building up the organs of the body.

Normally, cells will grow and divides to form another new cell as long as the body needs the cells. As cells are growing old, the cells die, and it will be replaced by the new cells.
Occasionally, this systematic procedure goes wrong. New cells are keeps on forming even the body does not need them or old cells wound not die even if they should. These extra cells will then form into masses of tissues that are called the tumor.

Benign brain tumors

These are tumors that do not have cancer cells. Benign brain tumor can usually be removed and also hardly ever to grow back. The borders and edges of benign brain tumors are clearly seen, and cells from benign tumors are not invading the tissues that are surrounding them. But, benign tumors could press with the sensitive portion of the brain that may cause a severe health problem. Nothing like benign tumors in the other parts of the body, benign tumors in the brain are often times life threatening. It is seldom turns to a malignant tumor.

Malignant brain tumors

It is a tumor that contains cancer cells. It is generally more severe and more often life threatening. It grows speedily and invades the nearby healthy brain tissues. Cancer cells seldom breaks away with the malignant tumors and spread up from one part to another parts of the brain or even to the body. The spreading is called the metastasis. Other times, the malignant tumors do not go beyond the healthy tissues. Tumor might be contained in a layer of tissues or bones of the skull. It is called the encapsulated tumor.

Tumor Grade

Brain tumors are grouped by grades, ranging from grade l to grade lV. These grades referred to the looks of the cells under the microscope. Cells that are of higher grades look more irregular and it grows faster compared to the cells that are of lower grade tumors.

Primary brain tumors - these are tumors that begin within the brain tissues. They are named from the type of the cells or portion of brain from where they begin.

Secondary brain tumors - once the cancer had spread up from the original part to the other position in the body.

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Cosmetics and Breast Cancer: Is Beauty Only Skin Deep?

There's no denying it: the chemicals that make up skin-care products give us females a boost in self-esteem and appearance-and make us smell nice. But over the years research studies have suggested that at certain exposure levels, some of these ingredients may contribute to cancer development in humans.

Because cosmetics contain a variety of chemicals, it's unlikely that one specific chemical will be identified as a definite cause of cancer. Still, many chemicals in skin-care products disrupt hormones. These disruptors block or mimic hormones such as estrogen, throwing off the body's hormonal balance. Because estrogen can make hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer grow, many women seek toiletries that limit their exposure to chemicals that act like estrogen.

While many ingredients go into cosmetics and personal-care products, two groups of chemicals are being studied for links to breast cancer:

- Parabens (for example, methylparaben, propylparaben, ethylparaben, and butylparaben) are chemicals commonly used to preserve cosmetic products, including makeup, moisturizers, hair-care products, personal lubricants, and shaving creams (most major brands of antiperspirants and deodorants don't contain parabens). Parabens are absorbed through the skin and exhibit weak estrogen-like properties. And some conditions that increase the body's exposure to estrogen (like not having children, late menopause, obesity, etc.) have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.

- Phthalates (for example, DEP, DEHP, DINP and DIDP) are chemicals commonly used to hold color and reduce brittleness in nail polish and hair spray. Fragrances in personal-care and cleaning products also contain them. As hormone disrupters, phthalates do not mimic estrogen, but they can disrupt the balance of other hormones that interact with estrogen, including testosterone.

The Controversy

In 2004 U.K. researchers found evidence of parabens in breast cancer tumor samples. This study added clout to an already popular belief that the parabens in underarm deodorants and sunscreen can move into breast tissue and fuel the growth of malignancies.

No direct evidence of a causal link between parabens and cancer, however, has been shown since then. A 2005 review of the data available at that time concluded that parabens would not increase the risk of any estrogen-mediated endpoint, including effects on breast cancer and that we are exposed to many phytoestrogens already in our diet that are naturally occurring endocrine-active chemicals.

The American Cancer Society agrees that there is insufficient scientific evidence to support a claim that use of cosmetics such as antiperspirants increases an individual's risk of developing breast cancer. Specifically, they note the following about the 2004 study:

- The researchers looked only for the presence of parabens in breast cancer samples. The study did not show that parabens caused breast cancer development in these cases - it only showed that they were there.

- Although parabens do have weak estrogen-like properties, the estrogens made in the body are hundreds to many thousands-fold stronger. So, natural estrogens (or those taken as hormone replacement) are much more likely to play a role in breast cancer development.

- Parabens are widely used as preservatives in shampoo, lotions, other cosmetics, and even foods. This study did not investigate the source of the parabens found in the breast tissue - it's not clear if they came from antiperspirants or some other source.

A review in 2008 mined various studies for answers to the following questions:

- Are there experimental or biological arguments supporting a potential link between the use of deodorants/antiperspirants and breast cancer?

- Does the use of deodorants/antiperspirants have any effect on the increase in the risk of breast cancer?

- Could a causal relationship between the use of deodorants/antiperspirants and breast cancer be accepted?

Their findings? "No scientific evidence to support the hypothesis was identified and no validated hypothesis appears likely to open the way to interesting avenues of research."

Many women's and environmental health advocacy groups disagree. As do many breast cancer survivors who blog about or otherwise address the subject. They take issue with conclusions that cosmetics harboring parabens and phthalates pose little or no hazard to the public. They note that while current studies do not causally link parabens with tumors, neither do these studies demonstrate that parabens are safe.

Women's Voices for the Earth, a women's environmental justice group from Montana, launched a campaign seeking the removal of toxic chemicals from beauty and skin products. As a result, the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics emerged as a coalition to pressure the cosmetics industry to phase out the use of chemicals known or suspected to be carcinogens. Specifically, this coalition has developed a voluntary agreement called the Compact for Safe Cosmetics. Companies that sign the compact agree to make all their products "free of chemicals that are known or strongly suspected of causing cancer, mutation, or birth defects." If a product is made from a chemical on a suspect list, the company will develop a plan to replace that chemical with a safer alternative within three years and publicly report its progress. The slogan of their campaign, "Because We're Worth It!" was meant to prick the conscience of those who disregard women's health concerns for the sake of profit.

Countering this movement, unsurprisingly, is the mainstream cosmetic industry. They argue that parabens, like most cosmetic ingredients, are safe based on their long-term use and safety record and recent scientific studies.

Larger Studies Needed

The American Cancer Society has concluded that larger studies are needed to find out what effect, if any, parabens might have on breast cancer risk.

Toxicologist Philip W. Harvey, PhD, also calls for more research into the safety of parabens in cosmetics that may spur growth of estrogen-dependent tumors. "Absence of evidence is not evidence of absence of a harmful effect," he told WebMD in 2004. "These chemicals are being directly applied daily, by very large numbers of people, and the long-term health effects of exposure are essentially unknown."

Risk Minimal?

American Cancer Society epidemiologist Michael Thun, MD, says even if the parabens do promote estrogen-dependent tumor growth, the risk from cosmetic use is "minuscule" compared with other known tumor promoters. Dr. Harvey cited animal studies suggesting that paraben exposure is 500 to 10,000 times less potent as a tumor promoter than taking oral estrogen or being obese. "The risk at an individual level is tiny, compared to other known risks," Thun told WebMD.

Thun advises people not to worry about using antiperspirants, but adds that regulators must take these findings seriously when reviewing the safety of consumer products. "If this substance is in multiple cosmetics and is being absorbed through the skin, it needs to be looked at more closely," he said.

FDA Stance

In response to public health concerns regarding parabens in cosmetics, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reassessed the appropriateness of the use of parabens in consumer products. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR), of which the FDA is a non-voting member, concluded that due to the very low levels of parabens contained in consumer products, it was "implausible that parabens could increase the risk associated with exposure to estrogenic chemicals."

Currently the FDA takes the position that parabens do not pose a health concern for consumers. However, they will reevaluate this stance if new evidence emerges that contradicts the current evidence.

Steps You Can Take

To reduce your exposure to parabens and phthalates in cosmetics, many groups advise the following:

- Visit the Environmental Working Group's (EWG) "Skin Deep" website to search for cosmetic products. Each is given a hazard score based on the ingredients' links to cancer, allergies, and other issues. The EWG is a U.S.-based environmental health advocacy organization.

- Search the website of the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics for companies that have signed the Compact for Safe Cosmetics and learn about the products they make.

My Take

I wish there were simple answers. With all the distress caused by the controversy, I wonder, as one article title expresses, can rumor cause cancer? Are we overly stressed when told to avoid so many things in everyday life? Do we breast cancer survivors who struggle in a weak economy find ourselves in a Catch 22 by either paying extra for natural cosmetics (as well as organic foods) or facing possible recurrence?

Should the American Cancer Society only partner with companies who have signed the Compact for Safe Cosmetics in their "Look Good...Feel Better Program"? I pose the question without a clear answer, since this free program has helped so many cancer patients (including me) with their self-esteem.

Because I have been through cancer twice, my personal motto is "Why take a chance?" If I have the money to spend, I shop for skin-care products without parabens and phthalates, often buying online to read more easily the ingredient list. I also pass up those small bottles of shampoo, conditioner and hand lotion that hotels offer as amenities, not only for environmental reasons, but for my own cancer-free peace of mind.

But I'm also practical and do realize that many factors in my environment can contribute to breast cancer recurrence, and that parabens and phthalates are only possible culprits. Those who can't afford to pay or look for products free of these chemicals should not feel guilty or anxious by using regular cosmetics. Maybe the compromise is to use them less often or in smaller amounts. As one wise aphorist once noted: All things in moderation.

A retired patent attorney, Jan Hasak authored a memoir on her cancer journey, "Mourning Has Broken: Reflections on Surviving Cancer" (Xulon Press 2008). In this inspirational work she shares how her faith sustained her as she underwent breast-cancer treatment at age 43 and again at 52, and dealt with lymphedema.

Her second book, "The Pebble Path: Returning Home from a Forest of Shadows," takes a poetic look at her cancer journey. This inspirational allegory relates the story of Fanciful, a princess, who picks up pebbles of wisdom as she travels down the path following her cancer diagnosis.

She is listed on the National Cancer Survivor Day Speakers Bureau roster, maintains a blog on cancer-related issues, and addresses audiences on the benefits to cancer survivors of writing, forgiveness, diet and exercise. She also offers tips on what to say and do to bring cheer to a cancer survivor.

Ms. Hasak serves as ACS volunteer, patient-advocate for the National Lymphedema Network (NLN) and Lymphedema Treatment Act, and director on the board of a non-profit organization that assists needy women. She received the 2009 Lymphedema D-Day Award for her service to the lymphedema community.

To read more, please visit Jan Hasak's website at http://www.janhasak.com/ or http://outskirtspress.com/webpage.php?ISBN=9781432754198.

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Supplements and Vitamins for Cancer Patients: Useful Tips

Approximately 1.5 million people in the United States are diagnosed with cancer every year. If you are one of them, you may be considering taking vitamins and supplements with your cancer treatment, in order to strengthen your immunity. Supplements, herbs, and extracts are increasingly used as alternative treatments for cancer or as supplements alongside conventional treatment prescribed by doctors, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery or immunotherapy. Supplements and vitamins are taken to strengthen the immune system or to help ease side-effects of some of these treatments.

Ideally, adequate nutrition and a well-balanced diet in every phase of life are essential requirements for normal development and growth, health maintenance, and disease prevention, as well as for the recovery from illness or injury. This is particularly true for cancer sufferers. Cancer patients could consider taking vitamins and supplements to help boost their fight towards a good quality of life.

Vitamins neutralize free radicals and protect tissue integrity and function. They are also essential for a number of other cellular functions such as tissue renewal and healing, red blood cell production, body resistance to infections, brain and muscle activity, DNA replication during cell cycle, adequate regulation of several metabolic events, recovery from disease and prevention of chronic diseases.

Take note of the following when considering vitamins and supplements:-

1. Do not take any supplements and vitamins without first discussing it with your oncologist and nurses, as many interfere with cancer treatment. Discuss about your various cancer treatment tailored to your condition and diet which includes supplements that can help you to stay strong and cope with treatment side-effects.

2. Research and ask your oncologist and nurses about the best supplements for your condition because most supplements have not been studied extensively in large clinical trials. It is vital to choose wisely and be well-informed.

3. Obtain information about cancer prevention, treatment of cancer, cancer cure and alternative therapy like supplements from reliable sources. Beware of advertisements and unauthenticated information.

4. No matter how harmless you think a vitamin or supplement might be, check with your oncologist and nurses about the potential interactions with your cancer treatments. It is always better to be safe than sorry later.

5. Once approved by your oncologist, ensure the brand of supplements are analyzed by the FDA or other authentic regulatory agencies on the label indicating that the supplements have undergone quality control testing. Remember, never take drugs that are not approved.

Cathleen Sloan is a practising professional in the healthcare industry with more than ten years' experience. She is an active member of the cancer awareness community at http://www.cancercuresupplements.com/

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Can Breast Cancer Really Be Prevented?

Breast cancer can be caused by many things, such as heredity and genetic factors that give a person a predisposition for it. Though more common in women, it is still present in men and can be something that affects both people certainly. There is no definitive way to prevent breast cancer, as it is a disease that will occur, but there are ways to avoid its fatal effects and to avoid letting it get out of hand.

The best prevention is precaution, and that means having biannual exams with a doctor to make sure that everything is running smoothly. Specifically, biannual mammograms should be sought, once a woman is in her twenties. A doctor will take a biopsy and check to see if there are any abnormalities in the breast. Sometimes there can be something strange, like a lump or some other anomaly, but a biopsy shows that it is benign. Most times, the lumps that are found are benign but occasionally they can be malignant and indications of the cancer. The only way to catch it early is to continuously perform mammograms and tests, such as self breast exams, where you feel across your breasts to check for lumps.

In fact, sometimes you might have stage one of the cancer and no symptoms will present themselves at all. In these cases, just making it part of your daily routine to have a breast exam performed is what is necessary and essential to ensuring your good health and preventing the cancer from getting to a more dangerous stage. The more progressed it gets, the more aggressive the treatment needs to be and the greater your chance of a fatality. But, catching it early can result in a beating the disease before it gains any momentum to do any real damage.

Some symptoms that you might feel are tenderness of your breasts, strange lumps and formations that you did not feel before, and painful, itchy or dry skin around the nipples. Performing self exams daily, maybe while you are in the shower or before going to bed, will help you know when anything abnormal forms. And if you are pregnant or nursing, you might easily mistake lumps for milk ducts, as that is common during pregnancy. Even if that is what it is, it is important to still get checked, because missing it in the early stage will cause you grief later when you find that it has advanced and what you thought was nothing to worry about has turned into a dangerous and potentially life threatening cancer.

Both men and women need to have tests done, especially women, as breast cancer is becoming far more common in women all over the world than in men. Also, it is important to see your doctor if you feel any of the symptoms or if you have a history of breast cancer in your family. Even if you do not have a history and do not feel any symptoms it cannot hurt to have check ups where you have the mammograms performed so that you can be sure you are on the right track. And as women age, their chance of getting it increases, so make sure that you increase the number of doctor appointments you make as your age increases.

Roberto Sedycias works as an IT consultant for PoloMercantil

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Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts - Is This Pain I'm Having A Cyst?

Cysts on the ovaries are closed baglike bulks which forms within the ovaries. An ovarian cyst evolves during menstrual cycles. The majority of growths are part of the monthly period process -- which is known as functional growths. They happen during ovulation and they also vanish after a period of time.

Simple cysts consist of fluid or solid materials when the egg cell isn't launched during ovulation. Growths may cause blood loss and discomfort but could end up being handled via surgical treatment. During ovulation, endocrine is released within the ovary, follicles and little bags where eggs are created.

Whenever eggs are finally shaped the follicles are damaged to release the eggs. The little bags that don't have eggs are known as corpus luteum but when these follicles or bags aren't damaged, they form as ovarian growths. You will find different types of ovarian growths below.

Follicular cysts -- this is shaped when follicles or bulk that contain egg cells develop and don't break to release the egg cell.

Corpus Luteum cysts -- this is shaped during the menstrual period. When the egg cell isn't fertilized, this particular cyst vanishes after a while.

Dermoid cysts -- this is related to tissue such as the skin, hair and tooth. This also happens in the ovary's germ tissue, and they are obvious during adulthood.

Signs and symptoms for ovarian cysts may go undetectable till they're discovered during health-related evaluation. During giving birth, injury or intercourse, they might split and could show symptoms for example:

Intense discomfort in the belly

Excessive blood loss internally

Agonizing intercourse

Weight gain

Inability to conceive a child

Heavy monthly flow

Agonizing bowel movement

Alterations in the monthly period cycle

Proper diagnosis of ovarian cysts consists of bodily evaluation, lab exams and knowledge about the health background of the affected person. Lab exams consist of CBC and pregnancy check. Diagnostic test may also be given such as ultrasound examination, laparoscopy, and x-ray.

With respect to the kind, dimension and placement of growths, treatment for ovarian cysts also consider the age of the individual. For a "functional cyst", a doctor might suggest waiting and seeing if the growths might vanish during a period of time since they usually will.

For polycystic kind, prescriptions can vary appropriately. For cyst adenomas, endometrial, and dermoid cysts, treatment methods are generally completed with surgical treatment. Laparoscopy is going to be carried out on the cysts

If you are experiencing some of the symptoms listed above, it's important that you take the time to see if you have an ovarian cyst. It's very important not to put this off.

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Colon Cancer: A Cruel Health Condition

We all are aware of the dangerous disease called cancer. This deadly disease can occur to anybody at any time. It is actually a group of more than a hundred different diseases. By affecting the body's main unit cell, it can spread to any area of the body and thus can make people suffer a lot.

When it comes to colon cancer, like other body organs, the colon and rectum are also made up of various types of cells. According to the need of the body, the cells divide to produce more number of cells that helps to maintain a good health. However, when the cells keep dividing even when there is no bodily need, a mass of tissues grows. This group of added tissues is known as a growth or tumor and can be benign or malignant.

Benign tumors are not actually cancer and can be easily get rid of. Mostly, these types of tumors don't come back after treatment. In a way, they are little safe, as benign tumors do not spread to other body parts and can be treated easily.

Now, the question is that if benign tumors are not cancer then what kinds of tumors are called cancer. Malignant tumors are actually cancer. When this tumor occurs, it can invade and damage the tissues and organs around it. The most dangerous part of this tumor is that cancer cells can break away from the tumor and can enter into the blood steam or lymphatic system. Thus, it gets spread from the original tumor to form new tumors in the other body parts. In medical term, this process of spreading of cancer from part to another part of the body is known as metastasis. For instance: when colon cancer spreads to the liver, then the cancer cells in the liver are called as colon cancer cells and the disease is called metastatic colon cancer but not liver cancer.

Colon cancer is also known as colorectal cancer which is mostly arises from adenomatous polyps-clusters of abnormal cells in the glands covering the inner wall of the colon. With time, these abnormal growths expand and eventually degenerate to become adenocarcinomas.

People with adenomatous polyposis syndromes usually have a greater risk of suffering from this type of cancer. It is seemed that colon cancer usually occurs to people before the age 40. Apart from that, the factors that may increase the risk of developing colon cancer include: poor diet, obesity, smoking, drugs etc. Regarding diet, it is said that a diet with high-fiber and low-fat could help in preventing colon cancer. According to some research, exercise and a healthy diet including fresh fruits and vegetables is very beneficial in this regard.

Though the symptoms of this type of cancer can't be indicated properly, yet there are certain general symptoms that can be seen during colorectal cancer. Such as: fatigue, weakness, difficulty in breathing, changed bowel habits, narrow stools, diarrhea or constipation, blood stool, unusual loss of weight, pain in abdominal, cramps or bloating.

For the treatment of this cancer, surgery is the most effective way, where the tumor, a small margin of the surrounding healthy bowel, and adjacent lymph nodes are removed by the medical professionals.

Health is main concern to lead a happy and prosperous life. Cancer is a very deadly disease that not only makes people suffer physically but also mentally makes people weak. To know more about this disease and other health related articles, kindly visit http://devilipika15.blog.com/archives/category/health/.

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Cell Phone Use Associated With Increased Risk of Brain Tumors

I haven't got a brilliant memory, but sometimes something somebody lets me know does somehow stick in my mind. One such memory I have concerns a patient I saw some years back. He had had a brain swelling (I forget what sort) removed, and had an interest in supporting his recovery and general health through nourishment. During our consultation he remarked he had a boy that also had had a brain tumor. I questioned if his doctors believed there was any genetic link.

He responded in the negative, and told me it was his opinion that mobile telephones were the cause. This person went on to tell me that both he and his child were early adopters of this technology, and by their own admission were heavy users too. He went on to inform me a tale about an experience he had after he had had his operation. He was sitting in a packed waiting room full of post-surgical patients. Nearly all of the patients in the room had had brain growths removed and the scarring to prove it.

A chat about mobile telephones started in the waiting room, so my patients made a decision to take a straw poll then and there. All of the patients who had had brain growths turned out to be mobile telephone users. Now, there's nothing especially telling here I suspect, because mobile telephone use is so common.

However, my patients went one better in his poll by then asking each individual which ear they habitually held their mobile telephone to. He reported to me the side they indicated matched the side of their growth in each case. This is all only anecdotal observation and all that, and does not prove a thing, but this memory came back to me this morning after reading about some research which was published lately at the Royal Society in a meeting held by the Radiation Research Trust.

The study was conducted by a team controlled by Professor Lennart Hardell of the University Hospice in Orebro in Sweden. It hasn't been officially broadcast yet, though from what I am able to make out, the data has come from a formerly released piece of analysis from Professor Hardell.

The analysis targeted on the likelihood of precise cancers in people who started to use mobile telephones before the age of twenty. Younger folks were the target for this research because they are said to be more subject to the electronic radiation that emanates from mobile telephones, mainly because their skulls are thinner and may permit the radiation to penetrate more deeply into the brain. The analysis discovered that people who started mobile telephone use before the age of 20 were at terribly noticeably increased (more than 5-fold) likelihood of brain growths known as 'gliomas' as well as benign (non-cancerous) swellings on the main nerve in charge of hearing known as 'acoustic neuromas'.

According to reports, use of cordless home telephones were at seriously raised likelihood of glioma too. People who started to use mobile handsets in their 20s were also at increased likelihood of glioma and acoustic neuroma, though the boosted risk was smaller than that seen in the earlier users: possibility of glioma and acoustic neuroma was up about fifty and a hundred p.c. respectively.

Professor Hardell is quoted as asserting: This is a caution sign. It is extremely troubling. We deserve to be taking precautions. It is maybe fascinating to notice Professor Hardell's previous work in this area, particularly a meta-analysis of studies taking a look at the link between mobile telephone use and brain swelling risk.

People using mobile telephones in the long run (ten or more years) were revealed to be at an increased chance of glioma and acoustic neuroma on the side of telephone use (risk was increased by two hundred and 240 per cent respectively. Mobile telephone use wasn't related to increased risk of these cancers on the other side of the head to the one that the telephone is habitually held. The proof as it hands supports the assumption long term mobile telephone use is indeed related to an increased risk of brain cancers, just like my patient thought it was years back.

Paul Fitzgerald, EMF expert, graduated from NJIT in Newark, NJ. He has been studying EMF's for over 15 years. He has done over 100 radio shows in 2006 and promotes promotes cell phone radiation reduction airtube headsets to the public for protection from cell phone radiation, go to Airtube Headsets To educate yourself go to http://www.emfnews.org/ Also, Qlink Pendants for Cell tower Protection and in home radiation protection

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Weight Loss And Cancer: Aggressive Treatment Saves Lives And Improves Quality Of Life

Weight loss from cancer is a major issue in our day to day practice. Half of all cancer patients face significant weight loss. The type of cancer related weight loss that I am alluding to is known as cancer cachexia where the weight loss is involuntary, debilitating and associated with severe muscle wasting. This has a major impact on quality of life and nearly 20% of cancer deaths is attributed to weight loss and not directly to Cancer..

The Meaning of words:

Anorexia: Reduced appetite or the reduced desire to eat. Anorexia is present in 15 percent to 25 percent of all cancer patients at the time of diagnosis.

Cachexia: The net result which is seen as severe weight loss, muscle loss, and general weakness.

Most patients with cancer have both Anorexia and Cachexia. There are some who have a great appetite but continue to lose weight. Some of my patients tell me.."But doc..I don't understand, I am eating well but continue to lose weight...". The reason for this is simple, such patients are just burning up more calories than they are able to replace by eating.

Why is it important to recognize and take action when you see weight loss in cancer patients?

Patients who stop losing weight feel better, have a better quality of life, improve their immunity, reduce their chance of infections, keep their energy level and strength up so that they can better tolerate treatment and have an increased ability to recover and heal quickly.

Reasons for weight loss in Cancer:

1. The diversion of nutrients to the cancers cells and away from normal tissues and organs. It is very similar to a parasite within the body that feeds off any food that is taken in.

2. Cancers secrete chemicals that significantly reduces protein production and increases their breakdown. Muscle wasting and weight loss is the inevitable outcome.

3. Side effects of Treatment: mouth sores, dry mouth, trouble swallowing, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, pain, depression and anxiety. Cancer medications may cause patients to taste and smell foods different.

4. Direct result of cancer: Cancers of the mouth, esophagus and stomach may produce physical pain and obstruction that causes the patients not able to eat and swallow foods resulting in malnutrition.

How do you recognize cancer related weight loss?

Many times, this is very obvious and is verbalized by the patient. However, early signs of such a situation can be recognized when patients lose more than 5 % of their body weight in the prior 6 months involuntarily.

Treatment of Cancer Related Weight Loss:

A. Treat Side effects of treatment aggressively. Such conditions as mouth sores, dry mouth etc with medications.

B. Treat the direct effects of cancer with anti cancer treatment such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy as well as surgery. Placement of a feeding tube into the stomach is utilized for those patients who have issues with swallowing and physical problems in eating.

C. Treating Anorexia and Cachexia with:

1. Megestrol in the form of Megace solution is known to increase muscle mass in patients with cancer.

2. Dronabinol and Marinol are FDA-approved forms of marijuana that can help stimulate the appetite.

3. Steroids such as Dexamethasone.

4. Fish oil. Numerous studies have reported the benefits of fish oil supplementation. Recent studies have demonstrated their beneficial effects in correcting weight loss and anorexia from cancer and its treatment.

In summary, weight loss in cancer patients is a situation that is not adequately recognized and treated by patients and their care givers. My contention is that, aggressively addressing this issue can have a major impact on the life of our patients. We can not only improve their overall quality of life but also possibly achieve better cure rates since these patients may be able to better tolerate more aggressive therapy.

Dr. Kumar is a board certified Radiation Oncologist who is co-founder of a private practice group called Coastal Cyberknife and Radiation Oncology in Saint Lucie County, Florida. He has over 17 years experience dealing with cancer patients including several members in his own family who have been afflicted by this disease.

His philosophy of managing patients is through a unique holistic approach that takes into account the wishes and needs of patients and their families. Education in simple language allows the patients to make the right decision when it comes to their cancer care. He believes that any battle is won at the level of the mind first before the body goes into action to win the war. His website http://curingcancerofthemind.com/ reflects this philosophy. He is always available to help any patient with questions regarding cancer and radiation therapy and can be reached at 772 293 0377.

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Study: Driving May Contribute to Left-Side Skin Cancers (Time.com)

Is there anything that says summer in America like cruising with the windows low and the tunes on high? Too bad the activity may be a health hazard, according to a new study from researchers at the University of Washington, Seattle, studying skin cancer occurrence in the U.S.

Analyzing skin cancer cases in a federal database, the researchers found that when skin cancer occurred on one side of the body, it was more often the left side: 52% of melanoma cases and 53% of Merkel cell carcinoma cases - two particularly deadly types of skin cancer - occurred on the left side. On the upper arms, the part of the body most exposed to UV rays while driving with the window open, 55% of Merkel cell cases appeared on the left side. (See how to live 100 years.)

There's been some past research to suggest a connection between sun exposure while driving and skin cancer. USA Today reported:

In countries where people drive on the opposite side of the road, the right arm gets more sun exposure. A 1986 study cited by the researchers found that Australian men were more likely to show precancerous growths on the right side of their bodies.

The windows of a car typically block most UVB rays, the type that causes sunburn. But UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging and cancer, still get through and can cause damage over time. For most average drivers who drive for short periods with their windows up, the study says there probably isn't a need for extra precautions. However, for those who spend a lot of time in vehicles, like truck drivers; those who are at higher risk of skin cancer; and those who tend to drive with the windows or top down, it may be wise to use sunscreen. (See the top sunscreen rankings.)

The study did not differentiate between drivers who kept the windows up or down, or those who were more vulnerable to skin cancer, but it is the strongest evidence so far of a left-side bias in skin cancer in the U.S.

The study was published online in April by the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.

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