What Is Colon Cancer? - A Disease That Has Guts To Kill!

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is one of the leading causes of death across the globe, particularly in Western countries such as the United States. In fact, in year 2008, 13 percent (13%) or 7.6 million of the total deaths of people worldwide is due to cancer. Among more than hundred types of malignancies, Colorectal Cancer lands at the fourth spot of the most common cancers among men and women.

Colorectal Cancer is the abnormal growth of cells or tumor formation in the large intestine (large bowel or colon) and the rectum. These cells can spread (metastasize) and damage other tissues or organs in the body; thus, referred to as cancer cells. Basically, the colon serves as storage site for the feces before being excreted from the body, while the rectum is the distal end of the colon that is adjacent to the anus. These structures of the digestive tract are the main sites for Colorectal Cancer, but cancer cells can also metastasize to the liver, lungs and other vital organs. Consequently, injury to the different body organs caused by cancer cells leads to several organ dysfunctions that can result to a person's death.

The most common causes of cancer are as follows
• genetic or hereditary origin;
• High dietary fat intake;
• low-fiber diet (low vegetable and fruit consumption)
• polyps (non-cancerous tumor) that are not removed from the colon; and
• Ulcerative colitis

Studies revealed that people with family history of colon cancer are high risk of developing the disease. Another cause of colon cancer is high fat dietary intake. Various researches show that the metabolism (breakdown) of fats results to the production of free radicals or carcinogens, which are substances that cause cancer. Meanwhile, low fiber dietary intake is generally associated with poor bowel movement resulting to diminished ability of the body to eliminate waste products including carcinogens. Cancer in the colon and rectum is also believed to be a complication of Chronic Ulcerative Colitis (bowel inflammatory disease) and polyps that have not been removed.

An individual with colon and rectal cancer will experience signs and symptoms that are also commonly observed to other bowel disorders and some of which are non-specific. These manifestations include:
• diarrhea (constipation and stool reduced if the tumor obstructs passageway for feces);
• abdominal pain, bloating or cramps;
• sudden weight loss
• fresh or old red blood, dark blood in stools leading to anemia
• body weakness or fatigue; and
• Shortness of breath

Hence, specific diagnostic exams are conducted to determine presence of colon cancer such as GI series and Colonoscopy. The confirmatory test for cancer is biopsy. This procedure is done by taking sample tissues from the colon during colonoscopy and studying them through a microscope. Then, another series of diagnostic exams including chest x-ray, ultrasonography of the whole abdomen or CAT scan of the lungs and abdomen are performed to verify spread of colon cancer cells to other organs in the body. Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), a cancer marker can also be used to determine cancer metastasis through blood test.

Moreover, the most definitive treatment for colorectal cancer is surgery, in which the affected bowel is cut and removed and the unaffected parts are connected. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy may also be part of the treatment plan depending on the stage of cancer.

In general, there are treatments for colorectal cancer, but they are merely intended to relieve the signs and palliative symptoms. Regrettably, cancer remains incurable. A person can live for months or years after the diagnosis of cancer, but is always at risk of premature death, even in the presence of a palliative treatment. Like all other types of cancer, having colon cancer is a sobering diagnosis. However, awareness of the disease is what makes people more alert about health issues.
The information provided through this article is NOT a substitute for professional care and should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. You should consult your health care provider if you have or suspect you may have a health problem.

Founded by a group of leading board-certified Gastroenterologists, GI for Life is committed to developing dietary supplements and products based on the most current evidence for supporting digestive, intestinal and colon health. Our products are formulated to meet our patients needs based on years of experience treating some of the most important and common gastrointestinal conditions. Our products contain only the highest quality ingredients to help ensure digestive needs are met. Visit us at http://www.colovite.com/ for products and information.

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My Overview Of A Cancer Free Diet

Not in any way the complete A-Z but here is a brief overview of a cancer free diet. Consistent with the ancient Greece medic Hippocrates and his saying 'let your food be your medicine and your medicine be your food' the diet can be used for both cancer prevention and reversal.

Examples of a Cancer Free Diet
 Vitamin A (retinol)
Source: Carrots. Or as a beta carotene supplement
Function: An essential for metabolic efficiency
Comments: Acts synergistically in combination with other nutrients.

Vitamin B15 (pangamic acid)
Source: Found in liver and can be taken as a supplement
Function: Liver detoxification oxygen rich kills cancer cells
Comments: Can also be found in milk thistle

Vitamin B-17 (laetrile)
Source: Apricots particularly apricot kernels, seeded fruits, broccoli (especially sprouted broccoli), bitter almonds, garlic and chickpeas.
B17 reacts with an enzyme in the cancer cell and destroys it. The harmful by-products are destroyed by healthy cells.
 Comments: Apricot kernels are very effective and especially so is sprouted broccoli

Vitamin C or antioxidants
Found in citrus fruits, apples, pineapples, potatoes and green tea... Used as an immune system builder and antioxidants that mop up those cell damaging free radicals...
Comments: Essential for healing, vitamin C also destroys the pathway that cancer relies on when spreading (metastasizing) as discovered by the late Nobel Prize winning Linus Pauling.
Minerals include
Zinc
Zinc can be taken as a supplement. It transports laetrile into the cancer cells and kills them. Laetrile is a purified form of vitamin B17 that has been made from apricot kernels and was developed by Ernst Krebs Jr. as an effective cancer killing therapy.

Selenium
Selenium is found in mushrooms, garlic and onions. It prevents formation of free radicals and is a highly effective anti-cancer mineral.

Calcium
Calcium is found for examples in broccoli, seeds and beans (or a range of other greens). It creates an alkalized body by raising the body's pH and makes it more difficult for cancer cells to form in this environment.

Enzymes
Trypsin and chymotrypsin
Trypsin and chymotrypsin are protein digesting enzymes. What they do in effect is destroy the protein wall surrounding the cancer cell. The cancer cell then dies as it is exposed to immune cells.
The enzymes are produced from the pancreas. When this fails it may be necessary to undergo enzyme therapy with supplements.

Eating large amounts of meat which takes up too much trypsin and chymotrypsin and not enough left for dealing with destroying cancer cells could be an underlying problem...
Other proteolytic (protein digesting) enzymes include bromelain and papain found in pineapple.

Water
Good clean water has numerous health benefits. For example, it removes toxins.

Sunlight
Around 15 to 20 minutes of sunlight can pay off dividends reducing cancer risk. Sunlight provides vitamin D3 as protection from cancer.

Summary
-This concludes my brief overview of the cancer free diet. I would encourage the reader to use this as a platform for further research into using it as a cancer prevention and reversal model.

If you liked reading this article then go to http://www.NewParadigm.ws for more related articles, blogs and videos... including a free download PDF entitled 'The Greater Way and the New Paradigm Experience'. Hosted by Paul A Philips. One again the link is: http://www.newparadigm.ws/

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Facts About Metastatic Cancer

The process by which cancer spreads from its original location to another part of the body is called Metastasis. Cancerous cells found in a different organ of an individual can also be similar to the original manifestation in terms of some proteins and chromosomal variations. For instance, Colon cancer that spreads to the Lungs is actually the extended Colon cancer and not Lung cancer. Despite its propensity to spread to different parts of the body, cancer tends to spread to one site more often than others. If properly treated, Metastasis can be cured in some cases but sadly it is mostly fatal. The regimen that is available can only prolong life for months or maybe a year or two.

Common Metastasis sites for different cancer types are identifiable. They usually spread from the breast to the lungs and then to the liver and bones or from the colon to the liver, peritoneum and the lungs.

The various stages of Metastasis-
• Local invasion of cancer cells on normal nearby tissue
• Intravasation, where they enter nearby lymph or blood vessels
• Circulation through Lymphatic system and Bloodstream to other body parts
• Arrest and Extravasations of distant capillaries to move into surrounding tissues
• Proliferation of small tumors called Micrometastases
• Angiogenesis or stimulation of new blood vessels for continued tumor growth

All cancer cells cannot metastasize even if they succeed in reaching another location in the body. At times they can lie dormant and revitalize after years. Metastasis can be found out through X-rays, CT Scan or MRI.

Metastasis symptoms-
• Bone cancer is painful and often results in fractures.
• Lung Metastasis is characterized by shortness of breath.
• Liver Metastasis can lead to abdominal swelling or jaundice.
• An affected Brain can cause headaches, seizures and unsteadiness.
• Sometimes original Prostate cancer is itself detected after Bone Metastasis causes lower back pain.

Treatment for Metastatic Cancer-
Chemotherapy, Biological, Targeted or Hormonal therapy, Surgery and Radiation or a combination of these treatments is known to provide relief to patients. Treatment is provided after bringing into account a lot of considerations such as the type of primary cancer, size, number and location of metastatic tumors, patient's age, his general health and the types of illness he has had in the past. However, even after treatment is provided it is possible for a person to be diagnosed with cancer a second time. It can be a new primary cancer but most often it is Metastatic Cancer. In some cases it happens that primary cancer may not be identified even when the symptoms of Metastatic Cancer are evident. Even in such cases there is hope for effective treatment.

Cure for cancer-
In the early stages, cancer is curable, but when it turns metastatic the patient's life is pushed to the edge. Suzanne Lindley was told in 1998, she had six months to live with colon cancer that had metastasized into the liver. 14 years later, she goes about her daily chores; aligned with an emerging group that has fought the disease effectively. She has survived like other member because they responded well to targeted therapies, drug combinations, surgical options and various radiation treatments. There will be others who will join this outfit with a research backing, which is actively transforming successful clinical trials into life giving models to transform the crab of a zodiac sign, cancer into livid individuals.

Sanjita Chouhan is a passionate writer. She loves to write informative articles on various health issues

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How Quality of Life Will Change As Ovarian Cancer Gets Worse

Once ovarian cancer has been diagnosed, the next stage is for a Gynecologic Oncologist (a specialist doctor in gynecology) to recommend a suitable treatment plan. However, any such plan will depend largely on the type of cancer the patient has been diagnosed with (Epithelial Ovarian Cancer [EOC], Borderline Ovarian Cancer, Germ Cell Ovarian Cancer, or Stromal Ovarian Cancer), the stage (extent or severity) the cancer is at, together with other important circumstantial factors relating to the patient.

Staging for Ovarian Cancer
Stage I (a, b, & c) - Cancer is limited to one or both ovaries.
Stage II (a, b, & c) - Cancer has metastasized (spread) to the pelvis.
Stage III (a, b, & c) - Cancer has metastasized from the pelvis but is limited to the abdomen or lymph nodes (not including the inside of the liver).
Stage IV - Cancer has metastasized to the liver and outside of the abdomen.
(stages I - III [a & b] are usually surgically diagnosed, whereas late stage III [c] and stage IV are usually proven at biopsy).

Treatments
Typical treatments may include: chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery (including radical), and clinical drug trials, etc.

Quality of life
Early diagnosis of ovarian cancer usually tends to get overlooked, as subtle but significant signs or symptoms cause little concern to begin with. Typical signs and symptoms may include: abdominal bloating, bowel changes, early satiety [sensation of feeling full], fatigue, leg swelling, and shortness of breath, etc. However, what was first of little concern, can suddenly become a major problem as the cancer progresses. The aches and pains, not just begin to become more noticeable, but also more difficult to live with.

Chemotherapy treatment may also begin to take its toll on a patient. As the cancer becomes worse, more of chemotherapy's powerful cocktail of drugs will be needed, resulting in a detrimental effect on the general well-being of the patient. Side-effects may include: body distortion, edema (swelling from excessive accumulation of fluid in the tissue), hair-loss, constant fatigue, incontinence (bladder and bowel), neutropenia (an abnormal decrease in the num

The cancer can also bring other additional burdens too, for example: it is not just the amount of time a patient receives treatment for, but also the potential loss of time from family and work. With chemotherapy treatments, the sudden change in health (for the worse), mobility issues, psychological and emotional issues, social and financial problems, and sexual issues, all help to contribute to a diminished HRQOL (Health-Related Quality of Life).

Philip is a Freelance Writer, Author, and Owner of Cancer Cry. He was born in Oxfordshire, England; however, today he lives in Mexico where he has been based for many years, researching and writing about cancer and other health related issues. If you would like to read more of his articles, check out his website - [http://www.cancercry.com] - and at the same time, please recommend his website to others. Thank you for reading Philip's articles!

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Stage 4 Lung Cancer

Stage 4 lung cancer spreading is called metastatic cancer. The area affected is called the metastases. To identify the spread of cancer to other parts of the body staging of lung cancer is performed, following, the prognosis of the patient is determined as well as treatment of the cancer in lungs n the patient. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) stages are divided from 1 to 4. In Stage I the cancer is found only in the lung and in the early stages with small tumors. In Stages 2 and 3 the cancer is limited to the chest and the tumors are large and more invasive. And, cancer will be spread to the other parts of the body through the bloodstream and the lymphatic system with Stage 4. The brain is the most affected part due to this kind of cancer.

Stage 4 of this cancer can spread to the bones, liver, and adrenal glands apart from being spread to the brain. Normal chest x-rays, CT scans, bone scans, and blood tests are how stage 4 cancer in lungs is diagnosed. Metastases to bone may be revealed during bone scans due to stage 4 lung cancer. During bone scans a radioactive material is injected to the bloodstream so that the metastases absorbs the radioactive material revealing the location of the metastases. This is recorded permanently. The presence of metastases is also revealed in blood tests during stage 4 lung cancer. For example, an increased level of calcium in the blood indicates the presence of metastases in the bone. Metastases in the liver will show a blood test with an increased level of enzymes like aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase. These abnormalities in the blood can be revealed through blood tests, which could be an indication of the spread of the cancer to the bones and the liver.

Stopping the growth of cancerous cells is the first step to any cancer treatment, then to treat them or remove them. Areas like the brain are treated with radiotherapy, by a radiation oncologist, to prevent the spread of cancer to those areas. A physician consultation is needed before radiotherapy of the brain is performed due to the side effects of radiation exposure. Depending on the area to which cancer has spread and if it is confined to the chest wall, diaphragm, and lymph nodes, treatments may also be combined using chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Surgery is also performed to treat some areas during stage 4 lung cancer.

A clinical trial of photodynamic therapy, which is a new treatment, is under way. This treatment is tried for person having small cell cancer in lungs which occurs frequently and causes obstruction in the airway. You may consult your doctor for more experimental therapies of stage 4 lung cancer.

I for one know there's a ton of lung cancer information scattered all around the web, and I know it can be somewhat depressing to go through much of it. I have compiled all that researched so it might benefit others. I put many months of research into a useful guide. There's no charge of course and I think you'll appreciate the simplicity of it. Its at MyLungCancerGuide.com. While you are there, you'll find this article about Stage 4 Lung Cancer and many other very straight forward, helpful articles.

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All About Liver Cancer

The cancer of the liver is also known as primary or metastasis liver cancer is a relatively rare form of cancer in the Western world (1% of all cancers), but much more common in Africa and in parts of Asia (10% to 50% of all Cancer). It is much more common in men and the incidence increases with age. The cancer of the liver is rapidly fatal, usually within 6 months of the gastro-intestinal bleeding, liver failure or metastases.

Types of cancer in direct
Most primary tumors of the liver are known under the name hépatomes (primary and hepatozellulärem cancer less than cancer cells). Some primary schools cancer of the liver are the bile ducts and these are known under the name cholangiomas.Some rare cancer of the liver cells and contain Chuffer hepatoblastomas sarcoma (which is almost exclusively in children and are usually curable and considerable). Métastatique, cancer of the liver is 20 times more frequently than primitive cancer of the liver and cirrhosis, it is the first form of liver death.
Signs and symptoms

The cause cancer of the liver, not the symptoms normally until it is at an advanced stage.
The clinical effects of advanced cancer of the liver include:
1st The mass in the right upper part.
2nd Offers, nodular on the palpation of the liver
3rd The pain in the upper-right corner
4th Weight loss, loss of appetite, weakness, fever
5th Exclusive series jaundice or asides (fluid in the abdomen)

CAUSATION
The exact cause of liver cancer in adults is unknown in children, but it will be May a genetic disease. Carcinomas the liver May adults as a result of environmental exposure to carcinogens such as mold, contrast (no longer in operation), the androgens and estrogens, oral, hepatitis B or damage to the liver due to cirrhosis, caused by too much imbibing of alcohol.

DIAGNOSIS
The cancer of the liver is difficult to diagnose in the presence of liver cirrhosis, but several attempts can help to identify the combination of a study of imaging (ultrasound, CT or MRI) and a high blood-alpha fetoprotein the effectiveness of cancer diagnosis Liver, electrolyte studies show May at retention of sodium, a biopsy of the liver, a final diagnosis.

TREATMENT
The treatments for cancer of the liver are primitive by the measure (state) of illness, age, general health, the feelings and personal preferences. The surgery is the most effective treatment for cancer of the liver primitive, but that is not always possible because of the size or the location of the tumor. Radio-frequency ablation with an option for people with small tumors and non-hepatocellular for certain types of metastasis breast cancer in the liver. During this procedure, the hepatic artery (the artery of cancer of the liver, from their supply of blood) is safe, and the chemotherapy drugs are injected between the slope and the liver. CRYOABLATION May, an option for the use of people from primary school with metastasis breast cancer and liver. The deletion of the entire liver and replace a liver with another person is another form of cancer treatment for primary liver cancer.
Even if the treatment is not too much in improving the cancer of the liver itself, the pain and other signs and symptoms caused by the cancer of the liver can be treated, energetically to improve the quality of life. In general, the treatments intended for children as for adults, and the best approach depends on the date and type of cancer and the age of the child and general health.

To know about you can see at Cancer news.

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Liver Cancer Alternative Treatments and Options

Cancer of the liver is a fairly rare disease, with approximately 16,000 diagnosed cases in the U.S. per year. Primary liver cancer occurs when the disease begins in the liver, which is actually very rare. The most common type of liver cancer is metastatic or secondary. Metastatic liver cancer occurs when cancer cells from another part of the body spread (or metastasize) to the liver. Because there is a tumor in the body that has already spread or metastasized, this disease is very deadly. Do liver cancer alternative treatments exist? Yes.

Natural and alternative treatments for cancer of the liver or any other cancer target the immune system and the whole body. This is because all cancer is a failure of the immune system, for some reason it has not done its job of finding and killing cancerous cells.

Everyone has cancerous cells in his or her body at all times, they occur when a cell has been damaged and its DNA mutates. When this damaged cell divides and replicates itself, the damaged DNA is also replicated, and the new cell is a cancerous cell. The immune system is programmed to find and destroy these mutated cells. and normally does this job very effectively.

If the immune system is weak or has also been damaged, some of the cancerous cells may not be destroyed, and they will continue to replicate. Eventually a tumor will form. So the first priority of alternative cancer treatment is to strengthen and boost the immune system so it can function properly. This is normally done through dietary changes and the addition of different types of supplements.
Many people do not know that there are also specialized alternative cancer clinics that use cutting edge equipment, drugs and procedures to treat cancer. These clinics are located mainly in Mexico and Germany, although there are a handful in the U.S. Liver cancer alternative treatments in these clinics can be very effective.

If you have been diagnosed with any this disease, especially secondary or metastatic liver cancer, start boosting your immune system by improving your diet immediately while you research your treatment options. Pay special attention to the treatments available at alternative cancer clinics, especially those in Germany and Mexico.

There are good alternative treatments for liver cancer, so take a few days to research your options. Because liver cancer is very serious, think about going for treatment at one of the alternative cancer clinics in the U.S., Germany or Mexico, they have had impressive success with these advanced cancers.

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4 Skin Cancer Myths Debunked

How much do you know about skin cancer? The reality is that many people are unaware of the dangers associated with this serious medical condition. Find out the truth behind some of the most widespread myths. This will help you to protect yourself and your loved ones in the best possible way.

Only old people get it.
This is one of the biggest misconceptions about skin cancer. The statistical data shows that the incidence of melanoma, which is the deadliest of all types, in people aged between 18 and 39 increased by 800% between 1970 and 2010. In most countries around the globe, melanoma is the most common type of cancer in this age group. Another alarming fact is that the number of children between the ages of 0 and 19 diagnosed with this condition increases at a rate of about 2% on an annual basis.

People with darker complexion are safe.
It is true that these people have a lower risk of this condition. However, there are other factors which put them in danger. Firstly, they are more likely to get cancerous growths which are harder to notice. The growths may appear along the hair line, behind the ears and even under the nails. Furthermore, late-stage diagnoses are more prevalent in people of colour. When the condition is diagnosed at a later stage, the chances of survival are naturally much lower.

It appears only in the skin areas which get the most sun.
This is another huge myth. Cancerous tumours including moles can grow on all parts of the body. Often, they appear in areas which get the least sun, if any, such as the inner side of the thighs and the pubic area. Malignant growths can appear even on the soles. That is why every part of the skin must be carefully examined.

Tanned skin is better protected.
This is totally not true. Tanned skin is actually damaged skin. Your skin gets darker because it produces more melanin, a pigment which is intended to protect the cells from damage. Tanning can increase your risk of skin cancer. Furthermore, it speeds up ageing. It leads to fine lines, wrinkles and spots which are difficult to treat.
No one is perfectly safe from skin cancer. People of all ages and ethnicities should avoid outdoor activities between 10 in the morning and 5 in the afternoon. If they go outside, they must wear sunscreen and protective clothing and accessories. The use of tanning beds should be avoided. Regular mole checks are important as well.

Take the first step towards Skin Cancer prevention right away. Protect yourself and the people that you love with in the best possible way.

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3 Of the Leading Causes of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is one of the commonest forms of this malignant disease. It is commonly caused by exposure of the skin to the sun. Before we talk about the 3 leading causes of skin cancer, let's take a look at the different types of skin cells and their basic functions. The top layer of the skin is called epidermis, and it has 3 major types of cells squamous, basal and melanocytes. Squamous cells line the inside of the skin, just below the visible outer layer. Below the layer of squamous cells are basal cells, which act as generators of new cells. The final layer of the epidermis consists of melanocytes. These cells produce melanin, a coloring pigment that determines your skin tone. This pigment also plays a vital role in protecting the skin from the harmful UV rays.

1. UV Radiations
A major cause of skin cancer is the ultra violet radiations from the sun. It is caused either due to long-term or short-term exposure to these harmful rays. The 2 common types of UV rays that affect the skin are UVA and UVB. Both the types of sun rays are known to be cancer causing. How do these rays work on damaging the skin cells? They go straight for the jugular - here, the DNA of the skin cells. Once the cell's code is damaged, the cells tend to multiply quickly, leading to cancerous growth. It is not just the sun's UV rays are harmful, even radiations from tanning bed and solarium have been found to be carcinogenic.

2. Chemicals
Many chemicals have also been found to cause non-melanoma cancer. Some of the harmful chemicals are arsenic, shale oil, petroleum products, soot, pitch, nicotine, coal-tar and creosote. People working in chemical factories or leather tanneries may be exposed to one or many of these carcinogenic chemicals. Their work conditions make their skin more vulnerable to the UV rays and to skin cancer.

3. Skin Conditions
Those suffering from skin conditions are prone to this form of cancer as the skin cells are already weak and can be easily affected by the carcinogens. Psoriasis, solar keratosis, Gorlin's syndrome, Xeroderma pigmentosum and eczema could increase the risk of skin cancer. These skin conditions do not by themselves cause skin cancer, but could hasten the formation of cancerous cells as they weaken the skin cells and reduce their natural ability to repair and renew.

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Important Facts About Skin Cancer Prevention That You Should Know

Skin cancer is a skin disease that ranges in the areas of mild to the potentially more serious form of melanoma. This cancer is the #1 cancer type and each year more and more skin cancer is diagnosed, averaging over a million in the United States alone.

Because people are not as cautious about their skin as they are with other parts of their body, skin cancer often goes unrecognized at first. Individuals may not be as alarmed at changes in their skin's moles and growths, as they would be with other health abnormalities, such as persistent heartburn, increasing pain or blood in the stool.

Prevention is the key to avoiding skin cancer. Prevention is possible using a variety of key measures. By not implementing these measures you may increase your potential for developing any of the different types of skin cancer. A few simple changes to your lifestyle choices can greatly reduce your risk. Below are some of the preventative measures that will help to prevent skin cancer in the future.

Prevention measures:
The sun's rays help to make vitamin D in your body, so the sun is not necessarily a bad thing. Knowing how much and at what times to avoid the sun is what you should strive for. To avoid the most intensive UV rays attempt to stay out of the sun between 10 am and 4 pm. If you must be out in it, you would definitely benefit from covering up a little bit. Wear a hat with a wide brim to avoid sunlight on the facial areas and sunscreen to protect the face and the rest of the body.

Wear sunscreen daily on your hands and arms which receive sun exposure while driving. This will also help to reduce the appearance of sunspots and aging in your hands.

Wear sunscreen while working at the office if you work under UV lights. You might not realize that the daily exposure to the UV lights in the office can also increase your risk of skin cancer and also speed the appearance of aging to your skin.

Try to stay in the shade as much as possible. Wear sunscreen always, even on overcast days. You may be surprised to know that even then your skin is at risk. Select a sunscreen that is labeled SPF 15 or above. Your sunscreen will need to be applied approximately every 2 hours or so. Sunglasses will also provide protection for your face and the sensitive skin around the eyes.

Purchase sunglasses that block out 99% or more of the sun's UVB and UVA sunlight radiation. Do not pick sunglasses simply because you like the way you look in them. If you can, purchase sunglasses that will partially wrap around to the sides of your head.

Examine your skin often during showers or baths. Discovery of any new or unusual growths or changes early offer the best chances of a cure.

If you do notice any abnormal moles or growths on your body, consult with your physician immediately to obtain the earliest possible diagnosis of any form of possible skin cancer. Skin cancer prevention methods combined with early cancer detection would offer the greatest chance of recovery with prompt treatment.

Russell (Rusty) Hart is the founder of the Health, Fitness & Sport Club, a website devoted to the promotion of health, fitness and wellness. The site encompasses a wide variety of health and fitness activities including general health matters, pilates, yoga, CrossFit, treadmill training, running, kettlebell, swimming, baseball, camping, hunting, HIIT, triathlons, extreme sports, equestrian and more. Should this subject matter be of interest you can visit the HF & S Club home site where you'll find over 1,300 quality posts with new posts being published daily. To quickly access those that are of interest you can select any of 20 Categories broken down by over 260 Sub-Categories for easy access. . Access this website by going to http://www.healthfitnessandsport.com

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Breast Cancer: Causes and Prevention

Cancer has been one of the leading illnesses in our present time. In fact, in the latest report from Reuters, patients infected with this disease has increased by 8.2M in the year 2012. One of the leading cancer illnesses that has been reported is breast cancer.

In the U.S. alone, it has been found that patients with this illness has reached 697,020 and these are both male and female patients. The leading cause that led to the said illness is the change in the lifestyle of people.
What are the causes of breast cancer?
Doctors and Physicians are still clueless as to the exact cause of this illness. However, they have come with several possible reasons why one person would develop such an illness. Among these are:

• Getting older - the older a woman gets, the higher is her risk of developing the illness
• Genetics - women who have a close relative who has/had breast or ovarian cancer are more likely to contract this cancer.

The majority of breast cancer patients however, are not hereditary. Women who carry the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes have a considerably higher risk of developing breast and/or ovarian cancer. These genes can be inherited. TP53, another gene, is also linked to greater breast cancer risk.

• Previous Breast Cancer Patients
• Having had certain types of breast lumps -
• Dense breast tissue
• Estrogen exposure
• Obesity
• Height
• Alcohol consumption
• Radiation exposure
• HRT (hormone replacement therapy)
• Cosmetic implants

Since there is no specific cause for breast cancer, it is best to find ways on how to prevent acquiring the said illness. Here are some of the possible ways for you to prevent contracting the disease.
1. Exercise - There is nothing more important that providing proper exercise as part of our daily routine.
2. Diet - Along with exercise would come along proper diet in order to keep yourself fit.
3. Taking supplements - A lot of herbal supplements are out in the market today that have several good effects or benefits to our body. For one to be able to prevent contracting cancer, they must get supplements that contain high ORAC values or in order words, a lot of anti-oxidants. There are a lot of anti-oxidant supplements out in the market today and among them are the following:
- Gluthatione
- Mangosteen
- Moringa
- Goji Berry
- Acai Berry
- Maqui Berry
Summing things up, cancer is something that we can prevent if we would only be able to build our immune system with the aid of anti-oxidants. Anti-oxidant rich foods are found in:

1. Small Red Beans
2. Wild Blueberry
3. Red Kidney Bean
4. Pinto Bean
5. Cranberr
6. Artichoke
7. Blackberry
8. Prunes
9. Raspberry
10. Strawberry

Having all these fruits listed, it would be best to take at least one of these or to include them in our daily food regimen.

Do you want to prevent the risk of having cancer? Take on and eat on the different supplements that are high on anti-oxidants.

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Living With Breast Cancer and Beating It

Breast Cancer, to be informed that you have such a serious disease has to be a life altering point in a woman's life. No one can ever prepare themselves to receive bad news of that caliber. Even with the advances in treatment, support systems, and recovery statistics, fear of the unknown is omnipresent. Fear of the side effects of radiation therapy and chemo therapy can cause the stress level to increase substantially. It's a natural response to a serious situation

Extensive research has revealed the various ways people respond to their cancer has a direct affect on the course and intensity of the disease. Additional research has proven that intense negative emotions over time can impede the body's ability to combat the disease.

One thing we must be aware of, however, is short term stress can actually be a good thing because it stimulates the fight or flight response. Oftentimes the jolt of a serious diagnosis spurs some people to take a proactive attitude towards the new and challenging situation. This positive attitude frequently gives them the energy to do whatever it takes to defeat this cancerous foe.

We should also be aware of the consequences of a negative attitude. If one becomes consumed with fear, negative thoughts and attitudes, the results will be an immune system that is less efficient and vulnerable to an attack by an aggressive cancer. Doctors who practice a holistic approach to breast cancer agree that the mind-body approach like meditation, yoga, and Qi Gong can relax the mind, reduce stress, and make it easier for the patient to cope with the magnitude of the issues at hand.

Chemicals produced from long term stress shorten the telomeres found on the tips of the chromosomes. Telomeres are the end-caps that prevent our DNA from unraveling, thus preserving its strength and preventing damage that can ultimately lead to chronic disease. Cells with shortened telomeres have a tendency to age prematurely. This premature aging process poses a potential risk for the development of new cancers. Stress, a pessimistic attitude, negative thoughts, and a negative attitude can affect your immune system by seriously damaging and often destroying critical immune cells. This, believe it or not, can result in the cancer intensifying. Some research strongly indicates a cancer risk increases in women who experience long periods of stress.

Stress reduction is of primary importance in the fight against cancer. A good way to fight depression, fear, anxiety, and other stressful states of mind is by practicing meditation on a regular basis. All it takes is a few minutes of your time to sit quietly, focusing on deep slow breathing to decrease the intensity of your stress related hormones. Numerous studies have shown that meditation can significantly stimulate immune function, reduce pain, and improve ones quality of life.

There are additional mental-physical methods of reducing stress and improving immune function. They are called moving meditation because they combine deep mental concentration with slow methodical movement. Examples of moving meditation are Tai Chi and Qi gong where the emphasis is placed on deep methodical breathing that helps correlate the connection with mind and body to facilitate a greater healing capacity.
Never underestimate the healing power of joy. It can be your best friend and cancers worst enemy. Doing something you really enjoy will significantly reduce your stress. Take a relaxing nature walk, hug a baby, laugh, interact with family and friends. All those types of activities will improve your mental state which will fortify your immune system.

We now know about the strong connection between our mental state and this insidious disease called cancer. There is also a strong connection between our eating habits and cancer. You have probably heard this in the past but it bares repeating. And that is to avoid grain fed red meat, fried foods, and sugar. These three items have been shown to increase your risk of contracting cancer. Sugar feeds inflammation and stimulates tumor growth. Try to cut back on the white stuff and make it a habit to read those food labels because that's where much of your sugar comes from.

Raw organic fruits and vegetables, on the other hand, provide an abundance of antioxidants that assist in neutralizing the harmful effects of free radicals. Raw organic fruits and vegetables contain high concentrations of phytochemicals which are key players in the fight against cancer.

Broccoli, cauliflower, and kale are extremely beneficial because they contain ingredients that stimulate breast health by assisting in the balance of a woman's hormones. One ingredient that is especially helpful is DIM which is produced naturally in the body when broccoli, kale and cauliflower are digested. Once DIM is exposed to the body's interior, it helps to reduce inflammation, fortify the immune system, and ultimately fight the invading cancer cells.

The types of food we ingest plays an important role in our fight against breast cancer, any cancer actually. But lets not forget the role supplements play in this fight. In numerous documented cases, supplements have shown great success in the fight against breast cancer, even in aggressive cases.

Some of the key supplements in this fight are Modified Citrus Pectin (MCP), Beta-Glucan, Maitake Mushroom, Turmeric, Chinese Skullcap, Astragalus, Quercetin, and DIM. All of those have a variety of cancer fighting attributes. But there is one attribute they all have in common, and that is they all fortify your immune system.

We now know that the most successful method of fighting breast cancer is to combine a positive mental approach with a healthy organic diet and key supplements. I'm sure you are aware that there are no guarantees in life, but your chances of a successful outcome will increase greatly if you apply these methods.

Breast cancer is a serious threat to a woman's health but there are other threats as well. Ailments like Heart Disease, Lupus, Fibromyalgia, and Endometriosis are serious threats also. Some of those threats are life threatening and others make you feel miserable. If you're curious about a natural approach to women' s health then go to http://www.VitaminAndHerbalHealth.com. and open the Health Springs Eternal tab.

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Breast Cancer Awareness Is Only a First Step

One in eight US women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Overcoming breast cancer is a personal journey with choices along the way. There are choices about the type of breast surgery, the need for additional treatments and options for breast reconstruction. Research has found that breast reconstruction contributes to a woman's self-esteem and sense of wellbeing; however, more than 70 percent of women eligible for breast reconstruction are not told about all of their options.

The media frequently heightens awareness of breast cancer, but awareness doesn't always translate into a positive impact on health care. Agreeing or disagreeing that Angelina Jolie Pitt's decision to surgically remove her ovaries and fallopian tubes to prevent ovarian cancer was a heroic and courageous move is a matter of perspective. However, in between the lines of Angelina's latest article in the NY Times ("Angelina Jolie Pitt: Diary of a Surgery", NY Times, March 24, 2015) lies a subtler message... KNOWLEDGE IS POWER AND WOMEN NEED TO ADVOCATE FOR THEIR OWN PHYSICAL HEALTH. This is a dialogue we need to have with ourselves. Angelina Jolie Pitt made choices consistent with her history and lifestyle. As the Delphic Maxim on the Temple of Apollo reads "Know thyself." Each person is driven by different motives and sensitivities, personally unique to their individual circumstances. There is always more than one way to deal with any health issue. The most important thing is to learn about your options and choose what is right for you and your loved ones.

Every woman diagnosed with breast cancer should seek a referral to a plastic surgeon to learn about all of her reconstructive options before her cancer is treated and removed. Breast reconstruction after mastectomy or lumpectomy generally falls into two categories: implant based reconstruction or reconstruction using a person's own tissue, also known as autologous reconstruction. Autologous reconstruction can be subdivided into flap reconstruction, total reconstruction with autologous fat transfer, or a combination of the two. Reconstructive techniques are not necessarily mutually exclusive, and often techniques are combined to give the best result.

Breast reconstruction is staged which means more than one surgery will need to be performed to reconstruct the breasts to a more natural shape and size. Not all plastic surgeons are the same, and in one's weakness lay another's strength. Speaking to more than one plastic surgeon may help a woman affected by breast cancer (and her family) see the picture through a wider lens.

As health care professionals, we are here to help you make the decisions that will give you the best quality of life in the long run. In closing her article Jolie Pitt poignantly wrote, "It is not easy to make these decisions. But it is possible to take control and tackle head-on any health issue. You can seek advice, learn about the options and make choices that are right for you."

Dr. Mahsa Moghaddam is a Mayo Clinic trained plastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. Meet her at http://www.nipntuck.com/dr-mahsa-moghaddam.

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Breast Cancer, The Most Frequently Diagnosed Cancer In Women

The latest data from National Cancer Institute revealed that about 232,340 female and about 2,240 male are diagnosed with breast cancer in the USA annually and death counts reaches up to 40,000 each year. The numbers are stunning, but the good news is that this cancer will be fading away soon as researchers work hard to find their way through. In fact, breast cancer incidence is still higher in developed countries like the USA in contrast to developing countries in Asia and Africa. This is attributed to the difference in lifestyle and life expectancy between different regions.

Breast cancer develops as a consequence of exposure to different risk factors. Age and gender is already an established risk factor for this cancer. Females that are 40 years old or older have higher risk of developing it compared to males. Family history is also a key risk factor. Studies have shown that females have 4 times higher risk of developing breast cancer in the presence of first degree relatives with the disease, and five times higher if there are at least three members of the family who have this disease. Moreover, a history of ovarian cancer in the family is also associated to increase risk of acquiring breast cancer. Lifestyle related factors such as obesity, alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking are also risk factors. Other risk factors that are important to mention are getting pregnant at a later age, not being able to bear a child, and an early onset of menses and late age of menopause. These are all hormone-related risk factors proven to contribute to increased risk of exposing to this disease.

Signs and symptoms of breast cancer aren't specific, but are obvious and they could show in variety of ways. Typically, alterations of the normal breast size, shape and color are the earliest signs and these could include a presence of a lump in one or both breasts, a rash around the nipples, nipples become inverted and may have abnormal discharges such as blood. There are also probabilities that a patient could feel pain on the breast or on the armpits. Observing any of these signs and symptoms warrant a checkup to a doctor for a more detailed examination of the breast.

Diagnosis of breast cancer is pretty straightforward. It can be suspected if the patient presents with the signs and symptoms mentioned above and those symptoms could be confirmed by an imaging study such as breast ultra-sonography or mammography. A breast mass biopsy is also needed to find out whether the mass or masses are benign or malignant in nature. Results of these studies will determine the appropriate management of breast cancer.

Surgery is still the mainstay of management of breast cancer especially those who have been diagnosed early. It has been proven to cure this cancer without the need of adjuvant treatment. Adjuvant treatment such as radiation, chemotherapy and hormonal therapy are usually reserved to those cases that are too late to be managed by surgery alone.

There is a steady decrease in mortality rates of breast cancer over the last two decades primarily because of the advancement in medical and surgical technology as well increased awareness of those individuals at risk for developing the said disease. However, this is not uniform in all parts of the world. Developing countries still struggle to get enough support from the government to push forward programs that increase awareness about this disease. There's still a lot need to be done to conquer the fight against breast cancer as well as other types of cancer.

Cancer Society of America Is a charitable non-profit organization that receives gift donations in order to help cancer patients, and support cancer research groups to find cancer cures. Please click below link to make your gift donation to bring help and hope to millions of people who suffer and fight cancer:
http://www.cancersocietyofamerica.org/donate-charity-research.html

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Massage Improves Immune Function in Women With Breast Cancer

Massages not only help you relax but have many other benefits such as supporting the healing process, boosting your energy levels, eases pain, lifts your mood and an over-all feeling of well-being. It is a "hands on" treatment meaning a therapist manipulates muscles and other soft tissues of the body. There are a variety of massages that go from gentle stroking (also known as effleurage) and kneading of muscles and other soft tissues to a deeper more intense technique.

This is what happens while getting a massage. The therapist proceeds to massage soft tissue which transmits electrical signals to local areas of the body and also throughout the body. In the process, these signals help heal damaged muscle, improve circulation, detoxify by getting rid of waste products via the lymphatic system, boosts the immune system, reduces pain and creates a calming effect.

There is scientific evidence that shows how effective massage can be in reducing pain and improving quality of life in cancer patients, people with autism, back pain, atopic dermatitis, ADHD (attention deficit hyperactive disorder), bulimia, cystic fibrosis, diabetes and arthritis. It is also very useful for lowering blood pressure.

Now let's spend a little time discussing breast cancer. The term "breast cancer" is when there is an abnormal growth of cells which come together to form one or more tumors in the breast. Both men and women can have breast cancer but as we are all aware of it does occur more in women. Statistics show that approximately 230,000 women and 2,300 men in the US are diagnosed with breast cancer each year.
Breast cancer most commonly occurs in the cells of the ducts (tubes that carry milk from the lobule to the nipple) known as ductal cancer but can also occur in the cells that line the lobules (milk-producing glands) known as lobular cancer. It can also occur in the fatty and fibrous tissues of the breast, although, this happens less frequently.

Another important fact is the main cause of breast cancer is when a mistake is made during cell division (a genetic abnormality). Abnormal cells inherited from your parents only cause 5-10% of cancers. The largest percentage 85-90% of breast cancers occurs because of the aging process (genetic abnormalities forming along the way).

Now that we have an overview of massage and breast cancer let's check out this study.
Researchers investigated how effective massage could be on immune function and stress in women with breast cancer. They enrolled thirty women, 50 to 75 years of age with breast cancer undergoing 5 weeks of adjuvant radiation therapy.

The protocol was 15 women were to be administered massage in the form of a full-body light pressure effleurage treatment for 45 minutes, and the other 15 women - the control group - were given an equal amount of attention but no massage.

The results were the massage group experienced significant reduction in the deterioration of NK cell activity which occurs during radiation treatment while the control group did not. This translates into the massage was able to boost the women's immune systems. The massage group also experienced decreased heart rate and blood pressure indicating they were less stressed than the control group.

These findings are great news for breast cancer patients and further studies should certainly be conducted. Massage is becoming more and more in the limelight as to how beneficial it can be with so many illnesses and let's not forget how relaxing and absolutely wonderful it can feel!

If you would like to learn more about Massage be sure to visit Healing Energy Massage Therapy for more information.

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Don't Be Desperate by Breast Cancer, Keep Your Hopes Alive

Life is too short and one has limited time to enjoy it. Everyone should always try to gather the happiness around him or her. We all face adversities in our life but it doesn't mean that there are only adversities. Life is a combination of all sort of situations, behaviors and way forwards. We need to keep a balance among all. So don't get desperate even if you are facing a disease like breast cancer and always intact with the hopes.

We always seek for good things trough out our life but obviously it's not possible. One has to go through and face different situations in life. Breast cancer is also one of the situations that no one wants to face but sometimes you have to face the reality. Early breast cancer detection is a blessing and it further decides the direction for you.

Find out positivity to dispel the negativity...
When people come to know that they have a dangerous illness like breast cancer they often get into negative feelings and thoughts such as terror, annoyance or gloom. But the real aspect is to find out the positive elements that can sooth you and can help you to get out of this.

Think about the people who die suddenly, for example in an accident and they don't get even a moment to recall their condition. People with disease can at least have a chance to fight for their life or to complete the incomplete affairs. They can spend more and more time with their loved ones. I have heard many people saying that diagnosis made it easy to prioritize their daily routine as well as to understand the true meanings of life.

Can you specify Quality of Life?
Do you know what quality of life is? Quality of life is your personal judgment about happiness, contentment or enjoyment of life. This includes:
• Control over your feelings
• Symptom relief
• try to pick happiness around you
• Energy of life
• A positive self-image

What you need to do?
You need to be very much peculiar about whatever you have to do or you wish to. So have a glimpse of the points mentioned below.
• You need to know about your disease
• treatment options
• be Understandable and interactive
• set your targets and goals
• keep your head high for positive results
• achieve these goals
• Symptom relief and management
• You need to understand what you want and how you want.
• Emotional and spiritual support
• Advanced care planning
• Support and love of people around you a true essence in fact

Every person is different from other. Every story is unique. There is probably not a particular way to live your life. Everyone has a different opinion and different story to share. Once I read somewhere and quoting it here, "people who know me, know that I've been in hospital recently react kind and then I'll tell them you know that I'm feeling better and coming along. But if people don't know, then I don't go there. I just say I'm doing okay or... I try not to get into it. I'm tired of it. Tired of talking about it and... and I don't want people to, you know; sometimes they just turn sympathetic once they hear and I don't really want that either. So if I can get away with it I say as little as possible."...

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What Has to Be Known About Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed types of cancer affecting close to 2 million people every year worldwide, and killing approximately 75% of those who have are affected. Although studies have proven that there has been a decrease in incidence of lung cancer cases since the mid 1980's, present epidemiology is still alarming.

According to the surgeon general lists of the United States, 21 deadly diseases are caused by smoking, including lung cancer. Even though most smokers know what would be the effect of smoking, they are still addicted and continue using the tobacco products or the primarily industrially manufactured, the cigarettes. Approximately half a million smoking-related deaths, including both direct and secondhand smokers, have been reported every year, and out of that half a million, about 437,000 of those are direct smokers.

With 2 million people diagnosed to have lung cancer every year including 150,000 Americans, people may ask how likely one could acquire the disease? Basically, this disease could be acquired through exposure to carcinogens. It could be environmental or occupational. Smoking remains to be the number one risk factor for developing this cancer. Almost 80% of the lung cancer cases are projected to tobacco smoking and exposure to secondhand. Other possible causes of cancer are exposures to asbestos, halogen ether and chromium.

Genetic susceptibility is another factor that predisposes a person to acquire this lethal disease. Studies have shown that patients have an oncogene specific for developing this type of cancer, although further studies are still ongoing in order to solidify this theory.

What is really peculiar about lung cancer is that it may develop unnoticed until it reaches the later stages of the disease. A person could feel a wide variety of symptoms ranging from cough, back pain, weight loss, anorexia, generalized weakness and even fever. If anyone has these signs and symptoms, it is recommended to seek professional help.

Doctors and scientists have developed different ways of treating this cancer. Unfortunately, there hasn't been a definite cure up to this date. Management such as surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are currently being practiced worldwide to help patients have a good quality of life in the face of carrying this burden. Aside from medical and surgical approach, there are also organizations that offer financial, psychological and emotional support to victims of lung cancer.

Lung cancer is certainly a dreadful disease that continues to be a worldwide burden, but with the development of new medical and surgical treatments as well as support from different cancer organizations, the fight against cancer is getting stronger.

Cancer Society of America Is a charitable non-profit organization that receives gift donations in order to help cancer patients, and support cancer research groups to find cancer cures. Please click below link to make your gift donation to bring help and hope to millions of people who suffer and fight cancer: http://www.cancersocietyofamerica.org/donate-charity-research.html

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