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Saturday, March 31, 2012

Astrocytoma Brain Cancer Tumors

Astrocytoma brain cancer tumors are considered to be the most common type of Glioma. These tumors may develop in various regions of the brain, as well as the spinal cord. These particular type of brain cancer tumors initiate from cells that are called astrocytes. The area of the brain that these are most commonly identified is the main region. This is commonly referred to as the cerebrum.


It has been established that these have the capability of affecting any individual, at any time in their life. While there have been cases of Astrocytoma a brain cancer tumor in children, this condition is most often diagnosed among those that are part of the adult population. When children are diagnosed with these tumors, they are most commonly located in the base region of the brain rather than the main region of the brain.

Common Symptoms

There are many common symptoms that are often experienced when an individual has an Astrocytoma brain cancer tumor. The symptoms that are experienced often correlate with the pressure against the brain and skull regions as a result of the size of the tumor. It is common for an individual to exhibit behavior changes.

The person may exhibit a personality that is much different than their own, they may seem to change from one mood to another in a fast-paced and mysterious manner, and they may exhibit marked signs of irritability.

Individuals that have this type of tumor with their brain cancer will often experience headaches and pain in the neck region. Gastrointestinal complications such as vomiting are also one of the most common symptoms associated with the Astrocytoma brain cancer tumor.

Diagnosing the Astrocytoma Brain Tumor

Diagnosing the Astrocytoma brain tumor is a challenging task to many medical professionals. A full neurological examination is typically ordered if a patient is exhibiting certain symptoms. One of the main signs that a doctor will look for is any type of mental based dysfunction.

In some instances, a patient that is exhibiting new, unusually painful headaches and swelling may be further evaluated. In addition to these symptoms, those that experience seizures and signs of potential swelling such as vomiting will be referred to a neurologist for a full, in-depth medical examination.

There are many different tests that may be used to determine if an individual has an Astrocytoma brain cancer tumor. One of the main diagnostic tools used to scan the brain for this type of tumor is the MRI or the Magnetic Resonance Imaging scan.

Many neurologists will also use the CT or CAT scan, which stands for Computed Tomography. In diagnosing this type of brain cancer tumor, many doctors may utilize tests that help gauge the coordination, the hearing, and the vision in order to effectively rule out other medical conditions.
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Pediatric Brain Tumors and Brain Cancer Alter the Definition of Normal

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

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

Today...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Brain Cancer Chemotherapy Side Effects

Chemotherapy is one of the most popular methods of killing cancer within the body. It uses combinations of chemical compounds that kill off microorganisms. Though chemotherapy is an affective treatment it also comes with some negative consequences. Brain cancer chemotherapy side effects may include a loss of hair. It is possible to lose hair other than the top of the head. Hair loss may occur under armpits, face or even the groin area as well. Another concern includes feelings of nausea or the need to vomit. This usually occurs directly after receiving treatment. It can last for several hours after as well.

Some of the most common brain cancer chemotherapy side effects also include changes in bone marrow. Bone marrow is the liquid substances in side of bones. It is responsible for the production of red and white blood cells as well as platelets. During the chemotherapy process it interrupts bone marrows ability to produce enough cells that are vital to carrying oxygen and to fight off infections. It may also interfere with the body's ability to stop excessive bleeding from cuts. It may also leave brain cancer patients feeling weak as well.

Some brain cancer chemotherapy may affect sexual ability. It may reduce sexual desire. Sexual desire will resume at the end of chemotherapy treatments. Though sexual desire may return it may cause problems with infertility in women. Exposure to the drugs in chemotherapy may reduce the ability to become pregnant or produce children. While some may be physically able to perform sex the desire may not be there. This is not a cause for concern, as the desire will reemerge once chemotherapy sessions are completed.

Chemotherapy can be prevented if the proper methods are used. Physical conditioning before chemo is started may determine the severity of its adverse reaction. Not all chemotherapy treatments are the same so some individuals may experience more or even less side effects from therapy than others. If you experience memory function or memory loss as a result of chemotherapy it is best to talk to your doctor about possible solutions.

Brain Cancer Nutrition Therapy

Medical doctors have established the fact that brain cancer nutrition therapy is beneficial for those that suffer from mild to severe cases of brain cancer. Cancer is an illness that has the capability of depleting the body of essential vitamin, minerals, and other types of nutrients. When an individual undergoes brain cancer treatment, even more of those important nutrients are wiped out in the body.

Not only this, but the cancer patient often experiences issues when it comes to having an appetite. Individuals that have brain cancer are already quite vulnerable, but when poor nutrition is added to the mix, it could wreck devastation upon the health of the patient. In this guide, you will discover a new form of brain cancer therapy that focuses on nutrition.

Assessing Nutritional Needs

If you want to engage in a brain cancer nutrition therapy treatment plan, it is important to have your nutritional needs evaluated by a medical professional. There are many tests that may be performed so that the medical doctor may get a good snapshot of what nutritional needs you require.

One of the most common is the test that evaluates your blood. This test will validate whether or not your base figures are either low or high when it comes to protein and other nutrients in the blood. In addition to this, the medical professional will likely inquire about the health history that you have had. It is also common for them to ask questions about the way that you eat, immediately followed by an examination pertaining to your body mass index.

The Nutrition Therapy Plan

Once your doctor establishes your nutritional needs, they will determine which type of diet will work best for you. You will be encouraged to consume only those foods with provide you with the optimal health benefits. If you have brain cancer, this is typically always individualized for you.

In addition to encouraging you to consume only those foods that are positive to your overall health, the nutrition therapy plan will also include exercises that you will be safe performing during the course of your disease and the treatment of your disease. You may also be encouraged to take nutritional supplements. There are many supplements that have been found to benefit brain cancer patients in one way or another. These include Selenium, Vitamin E, and Beta Carotene.

Do Cell Phones Really Cause Brain Cancer?

The cell phone today is more ubiquitous than ever, and scientific studies continue to try to distinguish the relationship between cellular phones and cancer.

A recent study from the National Institutes of Health showed increased brain activity in participants exposed to cell phone radiation. The study used PET scans to measure the brain's sugar level, and found increased activity in regions closest to the phone's antenna after 50 minutes of exposure. Although the increased activity isn't directly linked to harmful effects, the human brain's evident sensitivity to the phone's electromagnetic waves does raise further questions.

In May 2011, the World Health Organization reclassified cell phone radiation exposure as "possibly carcinogenic," a label that places it in the same category as chloroform and lead. The most extensive case control study of cellular phones and cancer, the Interphone study, conducted across 13 countries for a decade found that the highest grade of mobile phone users-those who used their phones for 30 minutes a day over 10 years or more- were twice as likely to develop glioma, a malignant brain tumor. These results are alarming, particularly because the study failed to take into account that children and young adults are far more susceptible to cell phone radiation than adults.

Cellular phone radiation testing conducted by manufacturers also underestimates the amount of radiation that users are exposed to. A recent paper published in the journal Electromagnetic Biology and Medicine revealed that industry testing is done on a mannequin modeled after a 6'2", 200 pound man with the phone held one inch from the mannequin's ear. The study estimates that 97 percent of the population deviate from this unrealistic model of usage and experience greater exposure.

The Federal Communications Commission requires a mobile phone to have a Specific Absorption Rate (SAR), a measure of the peak of electromagnetic radiation level in a model, of less than 1.6 watts per kilogram. However, the peak SAR may not represent the actual SAR levels of a typical phone call. A cellular phone with a lower SAR may expose the user to more radiation on average than one with a higher SAR. A study conducted by a bioengineering research professor, Dr. Henry Lai, found effects of memory loss in rats exposed to SAR levels as low 0.0006 to 0.06 watts per kilogram.

As of 2010, there are over 223 million mobile phone users in the US over the age of 13 and the numbers are constantly growing. According to the CTIA, the Wireless Association, the total minutes of cell phone use in America in 2009 was 2.3 trillion minutes. Cellular phone users are also starting at younger ages. Given the indispensable role of cell phones in our lives and the increasing concern about an association between cell phone use and cancer, regulatory agencies should carry out more thorough investigations, and cell phone users should exercise caution and take steps to lower their exposure to cell phone radiation.

Brain Cancer Survival Rate

Brain Cancer Survival Rate: Brain tumor is basically characterized by the abnormal or uncontrolled growth of cells in the brain. The brain tumors occur in the brain in two different ways - some tumors spread from a cancer affected part of the body to the brain, while some other tumors start their growth in the brain itself. Given below are the major symptoms of brain tumor. Changes in personality are also observed in people suffering from brain tumor. Over exposure to certain harmful chemicals can lead to brain tumor. The brain tumor survival rates depend on various factors, such as the location of the brain tumor, the size and type of the brain tumor, stage of the brain tumor and whether the patient is suffering from any other ailment. The brain tumor survival rates are around eighty percent for those suffering from oligodendroglioma brain cancer. Brain cancer remains one of the most incurable forms of cancer, with an average survival period of one to two years. Factors Affecting Survival Several factors can influence the five-year survival rate of cancer patients. These include the size of the tumor, its location in the brain, the type and severity of the cancer, the stage of the cancer and the overall health of the patient. How Survival Rates are Calculated Survival statistics are based on large numbers of people, and should not be used to predict the survival of an individual patient. Age and Survival A patient's age has much to do with how long he will survive with brain cancer, as the odds decrease with age. According to healthline.com, children to the age of 14 have a 73 percent chance of surviving five years, while the rate drops to 55 percent for young adults between 15 and 44. Middle-aged patients between 45 and 64 have a 16 percent survival rate, and the elderly have a survival rate of only 5 percent. Other Facts Despite the gloomy statistics, it has been shown that a combination of radiation treatment and chemotherapy can lengthen the life of brain cancer survivors, and in some cases, even improve the quality of life, while patients who forgo treatment do not live as long. The Brain Cancer presented here are based on the relative survival rate. The overall 5-year relative brain cancer survival rate for 1995-2001 was 33.3 percent. The 5-year relative survival rates for brain cancer by race and sex were as follows: • 32.1 percent for Caucasian men • 33.5 percent for Caucasian women • 37.7 percent for African-American men • 37.5 percent for African-American women. Stage Four Brain Cancer Survival Rate Statistics reveals that mental stress and negative emotional is responsible for around 85% of physical disorders. Negative Emotional And Cancer has No Direct Relation There is no such direct connection of negative emotional and cancer, but it has been proven that negative emotional experiences and mental stress weakens the immunity system. How Negative Emotional Experiences Effect your Body? After becoming a cancer patient, the quantity of stress and negative emotion increases automatically. The negative emotional experiences interrupt the energy flow in human body. Tips for recovering from emotional loss. -Effective solution for fighting Negative Emotional This technique can be used for all types of cancers such as breast cancer, lung cancer, Bone cancer, brain cancer, cervical cancer and stomach cancer.

Thursday, March 22, 2012

What Are The Causes Of Brain Cancer?

Here, I am going to describe the most common causes of Brian Cancer. As if you know the causes early, you can take proper precautions to live far away from Brain Cancer. 1. Deletion of Gene Causes Brain cancer: The deletion of a gene, normally present on chromosome 14, may cause cancer in brain, which is the most common, malignant type of brain cancer. Recently, the Researchers of Stanford University School of Medicine has exposed that the deletion of this gene, promote tumor development and grow resistance to therapy. This is frequently occurs in one out of every four cases of Brain cancer. 2. Heredity-An Important Cause: Risk of suffering from brain cancer is known to increase if a person has a family history of cancer. Cancer in brain often occurs with members of the same family, so heredity could be a cause of this. 3. Abnormal Cell Mutation: Primary brain tumors begin when mutations occur in normal cells within their DNA. Mutation may allow cells growth and divisions at increased rate, and to continue to living, when the healthy cells would die. As a result, a mass of abnormal cells occurs, which forms a tumor. 4. Un-controllable Cell Growth in Brain Most Often Causes Brain Tumor (Brain cancer): Our brain has many different kinds of cells and each with a different function. If, in any case, these cells inside the brain begin to grow up uncontrollably, then this will surely lead to a tumor. 5. A Benign Brain Tumor may not be cancerous, but Malignant tumor could be easily Cancerous: A tumor in the brain may or may not be malignant. If benign, a tumor stays its own place, where it starts, though it can grow up very large, and put pressure on crucial areas. In case of a malignant brain tumor which has the ability to spread, and cause cancer.. 6. Cancer, that begins elsewhere, of the body, spreads to the brain- Cancer can develop in the brain (Primary cancer) or may developed by spread up of other cancer that previously affects the body. If, any other part of the body has any type of cancer, and then there is a great possibility of occurring cancer in brain due to spreading from the infected part of the body. This is the Secondary (metastatic) brain tumor. The Cancers of the breast, lung, skin, or blood (leukemia or lymphoma) can also be spread up (metastasize) to the brain.

Brain Cancer Treatment Centers Abroad

A brain tumor occurs when there is an abnormal level of cell growth within the brain. A brain tumor can be either benign or malignant; these being non-cancerous and cancerous tumors respectively. Brain cancer is extremely serious and once had a very low rate of survival, but recent medical advancements have increased the chances of the survival. One of the largest problems with brain cancer in certain countries is actually receiving the needed treatment. Costs are very expensive and it is difficult to find coverage. The hospitals, insurance companies, and financial aid organizations put up far too much red tape that must be gone through, and precious time is wasted. People are forced to wait far too long while their claim is still pending, and many are eventually denied help. A miracle for some people has been the treatment for brain cancer abroad. In North America and some European countries, the waiting time for treatment and overall cost is so overwhelming that it negatively affects the odds of survival. But there are many foreign countries where patients can receive treatment at a much faster and reliable speed, and at more reasonable costs. Getting treatment abroad does not mean that you will have to receive less effective treatment. There are many foreign countries with highly capable medical centers with professionals who were trained in the United Kingdom or the United States and have a good rate of success with cancer treatments. Another great benefit of getting treatment abroad is that patients can visit new and exciting places while receiving care. It helps the patient to be more relaxed, optimistic, and happy during this time. There's no point spending every moment worrying. A change in scenery, beautiful sights, exiting things to do and see, and knowing that you're now receiving the treatment that you need, can help keep you in a positive mind-set. The first step is to research your choices carefully. There are many options for brain cancer treatments abroad. You'll want to pick the hospital or clinic that sounds best to you. There are many that have good reputations and offer international care. Some great examples will be listed here. One country that has done well with international brain cancer treatment is Singapore. One of the clinics here is the National Cancer Center, Singapore; or NCCS. Brain cancer treatment is available at this capable medical center, and they offer a foreign patient service to help international patients seeking brain cancer treatment abroad. The Bumrungrad Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand is another great option. Some 430,000 international patients are treated every year at this multi-specialty hospital. Klinikum Stuttgart is a highly modern and professional hospital in Germany. A large number of international patients receive care at this highly-professional hospital. The Istanbul Memorial Hospital is yet another great option with a prestigious reputation. Like the others, they also treat many international patients every year and take great lengths to make sure patients receive the highest level of medical care. All of these hospitals are highly qualified with great reputations. And there are other capable hospitals out there that can offer brain cancer treatment to international patients. With so many trustworthy options available, it stacks the odds in finding quick treatment at an affordable price. Trying to find treatment near home can be hard, so it's very good to know that there are other choices available.

Cell Phone - Health Risks of Microwaving and Cooking Your Brain

It's amazing to see so many people tied to the leash of a cell phone these days. It seems that you can't drive or even take a walk without seeing scores of people with cell phones seemingly implanted into their ears. While the increase in communications technology is certainly impressive, very little is being brought into the public discourse about cell phone health risks. What you don't know about the cell phone that's glued to your ear several hours a day, could lead to some serious health issues later on in your life and actually cause damage to your brain. Is it worth the health risk to your brain to have that telephone conversation on the way home? Not-So-Smart Phones If you apply a bit of critical thinking for a moment, the cell phone health risks are a lot more realistic than you might have assumed. Think about this - the radio waves, wireless network signals and other communication waves that are circulating through the air are able to penetrate wood, metal and other building materials with very little resistance. Have you thought about those same waves beaming through your body 24 hours a day? Well, it's happening. And if you have that smartphone of yours glued to your head, it's like holding a lightning rod in the middle of a thunderstorm. Our brains and bodies are infinitely complex, and rely on electrical impulses to think, breathe and take action. When those powerful electromagnetic waves make their way through the air and into your phone, they are having a damaging effect on the electrical impulses in your brain. In other words, that "smartphone" of yours may actually be making your less smart the more you use it. Scientific tests have shown that cognitive ability sharply drops when people use their cell phones, and it's not merely a matter of being distracted either. The physiological effects of magnifying the electromagnetic waves directly toward your head results in impaired thinking and reasoning. I guess we'll all need smartphones eventually, as all of this cell phone use is working to make us dumber by the minute. It's a Wired World After All With more devices being plugged into wireless networks by the minute, before long we'll all be besieged by more of these invisible menaces than at any other point in history. The cell phone communications industry is making billions of dollars every year, and doing little, to nothing to educate people about the very real and damaging cell phone health risks. Electricians and engineers who work with electricity and electromagnetic energy for a living can tell us all horror stories of the damage that invisible frequency waves wreak on the human body. Heck, all you have to do is look at the increase in car accidents and fatalities caused by cell phone use to know that this is one trend that isn't going to end well for any of us. Or, you might visit a cancer hospital and count the number of brain cancer patients and compare this figure with the number ten years ago. Be aware of the invisible things that are going on around, in, and through your body. Is it worth being able to text that joke or to have a vacuum cleaner that does connect to the Internet, if your brain and body suffer for these ridiculous luxuries? I don't think so, and I'll be you don't either. Cell phone health risks are very real, and with the increase of wireless communications, they will continue to multiply. So the next time you have something important to say, avoid the temptation to text it while your driving, and tell the recipient in person. Your brain will be the better for it, and you might start to remember how nice it is to talk to someone face-to-face instead of via a cell phone. Download your free ebook 15 Secrets to Super Health that could put you on the fast-track to Super Health. About the Author Boro Petric, a Swiss native, became a longevity strategist after having battled a liver tumor that almost took his life. A believer in natural medicine and holistic healing, Boro has helped countless people with pain relief, and has saved people from dying after conventional medicines failed. His website is a free online resource for people who want to live longer, stronger and healthier.

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Symptoms of Lung Cancer - What to Look For

Symptoms of Lung Cancer are dependent upon the size and area of the tumor in the lungs. Some of the symptoms of lung cancer a person may experience are:

· Zero Symptoms - meaning some people do not experience any symptoms of lung cancer (none) and the only time or way this cancer is found is when an x-ray is made of their chest for a regular examination. A CAT Scan will reveal lung cancer also.

· Symptoms of Lung Cancer - Symptoms related to this specific cancer and signs it is growing and spreading through the delicate tissues of the lungs hindering breathing, causing coughing, shortness of breath, a wheezing in the chest, pain in the chest, blood coughed up. The symptoms of lung cancer if it has reached the nerves could be shoulder pain which feels like it goes down the arm on the outside or the hoarseness from paralyzed vocal cords. The cancer symptoms if cancer has spread to your esophagus can be difficulty swallowing. Pneumonia is another symptom from the obstructed airway and collapse of part of the lung.

· Symptoms of Lung Cancer spreading (to other organs) - This cancer can spread to other areas, and organs of the body. Such as your bones and this symptom is severe pain where the cancer is spreading. Signs that this cancer that has spread to the brain will give symptoms such as blurred vision, headaches, seizures, or even stroke symptoms.

· Symptoms of Paraneoplastic Lung Cancer - or paraneoplastic syndromes accompany this specific cancers frequently and are remote indirect effects of an indirect cancer invasion of the body. The symptoms are new bone forming in such places as your fingertips causing pain, highly elevated blood calcium levels, blood clots, and even low blood sodium levels.

My grandfather died from this cancer and showed some of these very symptoms. If you are experiencing any of the above described symptoms of this cancer, make an appointment to see your physician as soon as possible.

It is recommended to quickly contact your doctor if you experience any of these specific symptoms:
A chronic cough you just cannot shake that only gets worse, no matter what you try.
Coughing up blood.
Bronchitis or respiratory infections that keep coming back and you cannot get over.
ANY chest pain.
Weight loss for no reason
Continual fatigue
All breathing difficulties, if you start wheezing, or a shortness of breath that never leaves.


Some of the above symptoms of this cancer are ones we may casually dismiss, especially during cold/flu season, or even allergy season. Allergies can really hit us hard, I know they do me and they even make you wheeze if you have asthma. As they do with my mother.

However, if you are like my buddy I have known for 30+ years, ever since junior high and have a cough all year-round. If you also smoke like he does and has for years, and wheeze like I noticed him do over the phone the other night while we were just catching up. (Honestly, I am worried about him and his health and hope he quits smoking soon.)

Then, if you are like my buddy, please go see your doctor. What you could be experiencing are the symptoms of lung cancer and they should not be ignored any longer. Please, get help.
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Radiation Therapy for Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a serious condition which is caused by the uncontrolled multiplication of the cells in the lungs. This can spread to other parts of the body in severe condition. The choice from different treatments available like surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and so on will depend on the extent of spread and the health conditions of the patient.

While using radiation therapy, high energy beam will be focused on the area affected by cancer. This beam has the ability to damage the DNA of the cancer cells. This will disable the cells from multiplying further. The cells will get destroyed and the possibility of them spreading and affecting other parts of the body will get nullified. This treatment can be classified as external beam radiation and internal beam radiation.

In the former, a machine outside the body will deliver the high energy beam to be focused on the tumor. In the later, a thin tube made of plastic will be inserted in to the body which will act as a passage for the transfer of radioactive material to the tumor.

Radiation therapy will be administered to the patient for an average period of six weeks on a daily basis. This treatment is painless and lasts only for a few minutes in every sitting. Different types of radiation treatment are:

Palliative radiation: This aims at curbing the growth of cancer cells and reducing the pain associated with lung cancer. This is usually administered in the terminal stage of lung cancer when the aim is to reduce the pain than to treat the cancer. Often, this treatment is recommended if the cancer spreads to the spine or brain and causes harm on a much higher scale compared to the side-effects due to radiation therapy.

Stereotactic radiation: This radiation therapy delivers high dosage of radiation directly to the tumor in the lung. The success rate of this surgery is more as compared to traditional surgery using incision. Elderly people or those suffering from other ailments are usually recommended this treatment.

Proton radiation: A high dosage of radiation is delivered to the area housing the tumor. The advantage of this treatment over other radiation therapies is that it does not cause damage to the cells or tissues surrounding the tumor. Proton radiation causes fewer side effects compared to other forms of radiation treatments.

Side-effects of radiation therapy include inflammation in esophagus, radiation infections, pneumonitis, loss of hair, skin problems, radiation poisoning, vomiting, headache, nausea, and lack of appetite.

Lung Cancer Treatments - All That You Need To Know

Lung cancer is a chronic disease. Lung cancer occurs because of uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in our body. In United States, this cancer is held responsible for the number of deaths. Both men and women get affected by this chronic disease and the percentage is increasing day by day. Smoking is the main cause behind this form of cancer.

Speaking about treatments, numerous are accessible but all are not up to the mark. Curing this disease is really very hard but cure is possible. The treatment depends upon the type of cancer, the stage and most importantly the condition of that person suffering from cancer. These three things matter a lot for a doctor before he starts treating the patient.

Most probably, oncologists go for surgery that involves removal of tumor and can be only applied when the malignant growth is localized. Treating the patient suffering from stage I lung cancer is easy compared to that of a person suffering from stage 4. Recognizing the disease at the first stage can provide some relief.

Four types of surgery are basically applied by the doctors- resection, sleeve resection, lobectomy and pneumonectomy. Resection is a procedure that involves the removal of a small part of lung, sleeve resection involves the removal of some parts of bronchus, lobectomy involves the removal of an entire lobe while pneumonectomy involves the removal of entire lung.

Chemotherapy is the next treatment accessible to talk about. It is a procedure where drugs are used to destroy the cells. Patients surviving from stage 3 cancer are prescribed with chemotherapy. This is a very powerful way of treating cancer and most of the patients can't tolerate the treatment resulting in different types of problems or side effects.

Radiation therapy is another way of treating cancer. It involves the procedure in which high-powered energy rays are employed to kill those cells. This procedure is applied or is administered from outside the body. This procedure is also known as external beam radiation.

Have you heard of laser and photo-dynamic therapy? Laser therapy is a unique procedure of treating cancer that involves killing of cancer cells by laser beams. Photo-dynamic therapy is also a way of killing cancerous cells in the body. The procedure is little bit long but works effectively compared to the other treatments.

These are some lung cancer treatments accessible and medical science is trying its best to find out some more treatments to cure this disease.

Saturday, March 17, 2012

Cancer Treatment

Cancer is a class of animal disease, medically know as malignant neoplasm, wherein a cluster of cells show unrestrained growth i.e. division beyond the normal limit, intrusion and damage of tissues adjacent to them and spread (via blood or lymph) to other places. This malady is not restricted to just homosapiens but can even affect animals.
Reportedly, 7.6 million people died from cancer in the previous year.

In most of the cases, cancer is identified due to symptoms and its diagnosis is usually confirmed by a pathologist, who is a type of physician specializing in diagnosis of cancer. Suspected people are usually investigated with medical tests like blood test, X-rays, CT scan and endoscopy.

There are various methods for Cancer treatments such as surgery, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and various other methods. The type of method employed depends on the patient's general health and the location and the stage of the tumour spread.
Complete surgical excision is possible in very few cases since the cancerous tissues usually metastasizes to other places in the patient's body before the surgery. Masectomy is the surgical treatment used for treating breast cancer while for prostate cancer, prostatectomy is used. The aim of carrying out the surgery is to remove the tumour or if required the entire affected organ, which is however unfortunately limited to very few cases of small cancer.

Radiation therapy is also known as radiotherapy. It uses ionizing radiation for killing cancerous cells and shrinking the tumors. It damages the genetic material of the cells thereby preventing them from replicating further. The drawback of this methodology of remedial is that it often damages the normal cells in addition to the harmful ones. Though, in most cases the normal ones recover and re-function properly, it leads to permanent damage in some. It is used in treating brain cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer and also cancer of the skin, prostate, uterus, stomach, or pancreas. Even lymphoma and leukemia can be treated by radiation.

Cancer can also be treated by Chemotherapy which involves use of drugs which destroy rapidly dividing cells. It interferes in various ways with division of cells and has the potential of harming healthy tissues. However after Chemotherapy these healthy cells repair themselves. High dose Chemotherapy is used for treatment of certain lymphomas and leukaemias.

Targeted Therapy is another medium for cure which employs certain agents which are specific for the cancer cells' deregulated protein. It also involves small peptides which bind to the surface cell receptors surrounding the tumour.

Some cancer growth can be checked by either injecting or obstructing certain hormones. Some hormone sensitive cancers are breast and prostate cancer. Removing estrogen or testosterone is also often used as an additional treatment.

Controlling cancer symptoms is not a stereotypical form of treatment aimed at cancer, but it also determines the standard of life of the victims of cancer, and plays a pivotal role in deciding whether the person would be able to undertake other treatments.

Does the Pink of Breast Cancer Awareness Month Make Women With Cancer Feel Worse?

October is the traditional month for Breast Cancer Awareness. You'll see pink ribbons, pink t-shirts, pink clothing of all types worn by both women and men.

In fact, this year of 2010, the professional football teams of the National Football League have included pink in their football uniforms. Burly lineman and linebackers put pink cleats on their football shoes; quarterbacks and receivers wear pink wristbands and carry pink towels as part of their gear.

Why pink? How did the pink ribbon movement start? And most importantly, does it really help women who already have breast cancer? Or make them feel worse?

How Pink Got Into the Cancer Business
Ribbons have been used to express solidarity on the part of the wearer with the identified cause since the early to late 20th Century. Yellow ribbons are used for troops at war. Red ribbons for those with AIDS. Pink ribbons (and the color pink) express support for those who are diagnosed with Breast Cancer.

In the fall of 1991, Alexandra Penney, editor-in-chief of Self, a woman health magazine and Evelyn Lauder, of the cosmetic company Estée Lauder, got the idea to create a ribbon. The cosmetics giant distributed those ribbons stores in New York City.

Charlotte Hayley, who battled the disease, produced peach colored ribbons. She sold the ribbons to support cancer prevention. After discussing opportunities with Lauder, Hayley and their lawyers, they a "new" color, pink, was chosen, which became an international symbol for awareness.

Does Pink Really Help Women Who Have Breast Cancer?
There are loud voices of criticism about "Pink Month" and its long term effects for battling breast cancer.

Critics say that promoting pink ribbons as a symbol has not been credited with saving any lives. Others believe that the pink ribbon will fade from popular use and become only a fad. October has become a month when "pink" sales explode. Companies that sell pink merchandise and give a token donation to related charities.

Gayle Sulik, a medical sociologist wrote Pink Ribbon Blues: How Breast Cancer Culture Undermines Women's Health. She found that while "pink ribbon culture" has brought the illness much attention in the United States, did not improve women's health. Based on eight years of research, analysis and hundreds of interviews with women who had the disease, Ms. Sulik found that cancer rates rise, the cancer industry thrives, corporations profit from the disease, and those with this cancer are stigmatized by the pink ribbon.

How Does Seeing Pink Make Women with Cancer Feel about Themselves?
How does any woman feel when she has a serious illness and everything around her says, "Be Aware of Breast Cancer." In October, 2009 after Cheryl had been diagnosed with DCIS, a Stage 0 level. That October was a difficult month. Pink was everywhere and she was very aware of cancer. She had been diagnosed with it.

Yes, early detection was very important because we had less severe symptoms to deal with. Yet, the awareness month itself did little to support her. Whenever Cheryl went shopping, pink was everywhere. She felt horrible, like she couldn't get a break to live a normal life. Reminders were everywhere, that she was not normal - she had this cancer. She just wanted to hide.

Writing notes of support, using affirming words and spending more time together did a lot more for her spirits than pink ribbons and t-shirts did. Using the Treasuring mindset and approach helped Cheryl feel loved, appreciated and valued on the inside.

So, my questions to you, dear reader, are: What does October Breast Cancer Awareness Month mean to you? How do you treasure women with with illness? What do you write or say to them? And if you have breast cancer yourself, what would you want the important people in your life to write or say to you?

Main Breast Cancer Symptoms and Early Warning Signs

Early diagnosis of breast cancer can result in less damage to the breast tissues, less severe treatment and faster curing. That is why it is particularly important to notice any disturbing signals and visit a doctor on time. Here is an overview of the breast cancer symptoms that a woman is more likely to experience.

This condition is characterized by the formation of lumps in the breast. These are usually painless, but can be felt upon touch. In addition, they sometime create a spiny sensation, even though this is not particularly common. These lumps are hard and are usually persistent after menstruation. They can be felt in the breast as well as in the underarm area.

At later stages of the development of the tumor, the sufferer can feel tenderness in the breast. Pain may also be present, but the sensation can vary from dull and achy to sharp.

A change in the size and contour of the breast is another one of the notable breast cancer symptoms. An uneven increase in size may signal this condition. It is also not uncommon for a flattening to occur in the affected area, even though a lump cannot be felt. Sometimes an indentation can appear, again without a noticeable sign of a lump. Some sufferers feel that they have a small area that resembles marble under the skin. In general, if you notice any area that is distinctively different, you should see a physician.

Another one of the breast cancer symptoms is a change in the skin texture and temperature. Some sufferers with an advanced stage of the condition experience a significant change in the skin of the affected area. It has tiny dents and becomes reddish to resemble orange peel. The area is much warmer to touch than normally.

Some sufferers experience a change in the nipple. This is one of the most easily recognizable breast cancer symptoms. It may become depressed and get an unusual dimpled look. It is also possible for the nipple to have some form of ulceration. It might feel itchy or burning.

In some cases, a discharge from the nipple can also signal the presence of a tumor. Irrespective of the discharges color and texture, you should visit a doctor immediately. This is not normal and even if you do not have a tumor, you might be suffering from another condition.

It is essential for you to call a doctor, if you have any of these breast cancer symptoms.