Monday, November 28, 2011

Risks of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a form of cancer that begins in the prostate glad, a small part of the reproductive system. Only men have prostate glands. This type of cancer is considered to be the third most common form of death for men. It is the most common form of death in men aged 80 or older. In America it affects one in six men.

Though this form of cancer is difficult to detect without an examination administered by a doctor, there are indeed certain symptoms that may indicate the presence of the cancer. These symptoms include, but are not limited to, the following: urinating repeatedly, especially during the night, having difficultly urinating (including starting and stopping), experiencing pain and discomfort during the urination process, difficultly, sustaining an erection, experiencing pain when ejaculating, the presence of blood in the semen or urine and the presence of pain and discomfort in the area of the lower back and/or thighs. If you experience one or more of these symptoms you should consult your primary care physician immediately. Furthermore, while these symptoms may be indicate the presence of prostate cancer, they could be manifestations of other conditions or diseases.

There are indeed various risk factors that can very well increase one's chances of getting this type of cancer. While unfortunately some of these factors cannot be avoided, such as age and genetics, other can be.

Age is one of the of primary risk factors. When a man gets to be between the ages of 40 to 60, he has a 1 in 40 chance of getting get this disease. Those between 60 to 70 years of age have an even higher risk: 1 in 16. Research has shown that the average age that men get this form of cancer is 69.

A second serious risk factor is race. Compared to Caucasian men, Black Americans are 60 percent more likely to be diagnosed. Therefore, it is paramount that African American men get examined for this type of cancer regularly.

A third factor is genetics. If a family member, especially a father or brother, had prostate cancer, then one is twice as likely to be diagnosed with the disease. If the family member developed the disease at a young age (considered by researchers to be 54 years or younger), then the risk can climb even further.

The fourth risk factor, though one that can be potentially avoided, is the area where you live. Men residing in the United States have 18 percent chance of being diagnosed. Areas in other countries, such as some rural parts of China, the risk decreases to just two percent. Additionally, research has demonstrated that American men living north of 40 degrees latitude (in such cities as Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Columbus, Ohio) have a higher risk than those living in other locations.

A final risk factor, and again one that can be avoided, is diet. High fat diets have been suggested to be a contributing factor in developing the disease. Researchers have illustrated that this form of cancer is more prevalent in countries where meat and dairy are essential components of the national diet. The disease is less common in countries where meat and dairy products are eaten at a lesser rate.

If you are a male and have any of the risk factors mentioned above, its is highly advisable to consult your doctor and schedule a test. One can never be too cautious.

Maria Gonzales, a health blogger interested in a wide range of diseases and conditions, including health 2.0, oncology, cancer, cancer de mama, cancer do colon, and more.

Sunday, October 30, 2011

Breast Cancer And How To Avoid It

By Spencer Tabbs

Women today have high incidence of malignant breast tumours. The most popular ages are in their late forties but some are affected on the teens. Using the situation from the environment right now such as the car emissions, cigarette smoking, and burning of non-biodegradable materials are major variables using its polluting effects. The abrupt climate changes allowed some innovators to improvise a method to decrease and someday remove this present problem by making electronic cars, materials which are recyclable plus a Nicotek Metro E-cigs promo code electronic cigarette for the chain smokers. It is good that technology is accompanied by green ideas to preserve environmental surroundings even though it is progressing.

Information dissemination is important as well as the conduct of seminars for women. It is important to deliver them the truth and how to diagnose themselves before confirming a final diagnosis through the doctor with a series of diagnostic tests including mammography.

Even though it is found out that triggers of these breast tumours would be the bad smoke emitted it's also linked through lifestyle and diet. Since women today tend to enjoy junk food which are generally with preservatives or grilled, in addition to smoking rather than using Nicotek Metro E-cigs promo codes electronic cigarettes some of the chemicals present can be a causative agent in which this supposed to be benign tumours turn out to be malignant.

A sad fact about these malignant tumours is that they can mutate to cancer at varying stages but the good thing about having breast cancer is that it is one of the cancers that are having high percentages of curability and survivability. Compared to cancers which are diagnosed at their late stages and can be considered a disease most people will surely not overcome.

The best electronic cigarette Nicotek Metro E-cigs promo is a great one of prevention without driving the vice of smoking. Since lots of women already smoke by using this innovation it can help them to be free from one of the factors that cause breast tumours. Aside from the seminars because it will be taught to them how to examine their breast then they should do it frequently so that no traces of lumps could be felt throughout the self-breast exam.


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Saturday, October 29, 2011

The Most Used Colon Cancer Treatment Method

By Temple Santarelli Schilke

The good news about the application of chemotherapy treatment for colon cancer is that it is continually being improved upon every year. Medical specialist on colon cancers are working on the best way to fight stage three colon cancer to a stand still.

Do you know that your lifestyle and the meals you choose to eat are the common causes of colon cancer? It is known that the average American pursue a wide lifestyle and eating habits that contribute to the causes of colon cancer.

In place of fatty diets the consumption of vegetables, drinking of enough water and the eating of lettuce as well as carrots can help clean up your colon. Water is very important, especially when you take the eight glasses of water prescribed by doctors to be taken a day.

One of the fundamental solutions that bring about the reduction of colon cancer is to affect a change in your lifestyle and diet. However, consulting with a hypnotherapist and nutritionist should help you to gain important tips on how to eat balanced meals and how to live a stable life that will help combat colon cancer. If you noticed that a loved one is stooling blood of late, having weight loss and fatigue. That may not be a sign of diarrhea. Yes, I mean what I am saying. It could be a symptom of colon cancer. Take a trip to your doctor for confirmation.

Most people know the causes of colon cancer while others may not be aware of it. It is also good to note that, the rate of risk attached to people who have colon cancer differs among individuals. Some individuals are more at risk than others. Developments in technology and industry have been attributed to the high cause of general cancers these days. People suffer from cancer such as brain cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer and colon cancers. These are primarily caused by the emission of harmful substances into the air coupled with the consumption of unhealthy foods.

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Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Skin Cancer Causes, Treatments and Results

By Barbara Thomas

Skin Cancer is the most popular forms of cancer with about 1 in 5 Americans becoming affected each year. The incidence on the cancer of the skin has been recorded to have risen more than the years from the enhance from the level of risk point and carcinogens inside environment.

Though you'll find 3 favorite type of skin cancer; the Basal cell carcinoma, Squamous cell carcinoma and Melanoma, the first two are not quite serious and can also be treated and cured easily. The third type, Melanoma, the cancer with the melanocyte is the most severe of the whole lot and causes one of the most number of skin cancer associated death about the world.

What are the primary reasons of Skin Cancer?

.Exposure to sun

The amount a single bring about of skin cancer will be the over exposure on the Ultra Violet rays of the sun or any other sources. The time of exposure, the intensity from the UV rays and regardless of whether the skin was protected (with clothes or anti sun creams) all decides the chance of owning skin cancer from the extended run.

.White skin

White skinned folks are more prone to cancer on the skin than the darker skinned ones, and the difference comes due to the level of naturally occurring sun protecting pigment within the skin; melanin. Melanin pigment which is high in dark skin protects it in the damaging rays of the sun thus saving it from cancer. But dark skinned men too, do have a chance from the disease though comparatively less.

.Exposure to carcinogen

Certain chemicals like arsenic, tar, nicotine and oil are observed to elevate the transform of getting skin cancer. Even though these occur under skin carcinogen, only extended term exposure is discovered to result in the disease in many cases.

.Family history'

The genetic makeup and the household history can also contribute towards the occurrence of skin cancer. Having an individual from the family affected with skin cancer increases the chance of acquiring the disease.

Besides all these risk factors, you can find even now quite a few causes that may well trigger skin cancer or elevate the chance of it.

How can skin cancer be treated?

There are many methods to treat skin cancer depending on the severity with the disease and exactly where it has affected. Early and proper diagnosis with the disease helps to treat it better and a lot more effectively. The several process to the strong treatment includes

.Surgery

Non melanomas cancer or tumour can also be totally removed by various surgical methods becoming followed today. Cryosurgery, effortless excision, dermabrasion, laser surgical treatment are among the surgical approaches that effectively removes the cancerous skin tissue.

.Chemotherapy

Inter venal or oral chemotherapeutic treatment targeted specially on the cancerous cells can treat the cancer by either killing the cells or arresting their cell division capability. Cancer in the skin is also sometimes treated by applying the chemotherapeutic medicine on a affected skin within the form or creams or ointments.

.Radiation Therapy

The two forms, external or the internal radiation therapy might be utilized for ones treatment depending on a sort of cancer. Depending on the kind of skin cancer and how significantly it had advanced, either type from the therapy is chosen.

.Photodynamic therapy

This is really a far more novel method to treat cancer and has little effect on a regular healthy tissue. Right here photoactive drugs are given towards patient and these drugs specially bind towards skin cells that are cancerous. As soon as laser light is shone on a patients affected areas, the drug becomes active and kills off the diseased cells leaving with the normal cells.

What are the results of Skin cancer treatment?

Different means towards the treatment of skin cancer have proven to be incredibly strong in removing the tumour and controlling the cancerous growth. But as in each other cancer treatment, these treatment too comes having a few side effects.

Surgical removal from the cancerous tissue during the skin can cause a lifelong scar over a body. and sometimes even an expert surgeon can not assure a cent percent zero scar removal in the cancer.

Chemotherapeutic treatment using creams and ointments can trigger inflammation from the area of application. The inflammations caused in some individuals are so severe that they may possibly must discontinue the medication and switch to other treatment scheme. Chemotherapy can also trigger nausea, vomiting and hair loss during the patients undergoing the treatment.


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Friday, September 30, 2011

Colon Cancer Symptoms From Eating Too Significantly Meat

By Barbara Thomas

Important news for all of us, in particular those who have a higher chance of suffering from colon cancer symptoms. A brand new report suggests that consuming a lot meat, such as processed meats may possibly just up your risk of obtaining colon cancer. Cancer in the colon will be the 3rd most common cancer, right after skin cancers, diagnosed during the United States.

Doctors tell us that most all cancers of this kind get started inside the glands that line the colon and rectum. This type of cancer usually starts out as noncancerous polyps that more than time develop into cancer. Experts are coming to believe that what we put into our bodies may play a component inside risk of colon cancer - a high fat, low fiber diet, loaded with red or processed meats isn't what your entire body needs to stay cancer free.

The AICR recommends eating just 18 ounces of red meat (beef, lamb, pork) per week as this brings only a little increase in risk of colon cancer. This works out to roughly 5 or six smaller portions per week.

Processed meat is really a no-no as the findings in the report showed that consuming processed meat increases your risk of colon cancer two times as much as consuming red meats. The bigger the quantities of processed meat you eat, the additional risk you've for developing colon cancer.

Those who take 24.5 ounces a week (about 3.5 ounces a day) of red meats face a 17% higher chance of colon cancer in comparison to individuals who take in no red/processed meats according to the AICR/WCRF report. Individuals who ate 7 ounces of red meat a day, a whopping 49 ounces a week, were discovered for getting a 34% higher chance of developing colon cancer.

Why is red and processed meat so adverse for you?

No one knows exactly, some suggest chemicals named heterocyclicamines, a by merchandise as soon as cooking meat at a extremely high temperature, might play a part. Processed meats are produced by just this sort of processes - i.e. smoking, curing or salting and adding things like nitrates - none of those sound quite healthy. We also know how the human body changes nitrates into nitrosamines, recognized to raise the risk of cancer.

Moderating your intake of red meats is a smart move. And by creating so you leave much more room in your foods for good meals like veggies and whole grains. As for your processed variety, a smaller amount is more.

The report also cautions against drinking as well a lot alcohol, as this might up your colon cancer risk. Additional fat during the belly area seems to play a component in elevated cancer risk, that's why experts recommend generating other healthy lifestyle alternatives - taking in more fiber and becoming much more active over a normal basis as becoming so important.

Cutting red and processed meats inside diet, in addition to generating other dietary and lifestyle changes (drinking much less alcohol, eating much more fiber, getting active regularly and keeping your pounds inside healthy range) could prevent just under half of all colon cancers. That may be more than 64,000 cases every year according to the latest findings.

The excellent news, explains expert panel members who examined all the literature over a risk of colon cancer symptoms, is that men and women do have an element of manage more than the risk of this terrible disease. You may do one thing to support yourself, but you'll want to act now, and avoiding consuming too much meat is an easy place to start.

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Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Signs of Breast Cancer

By Situz Ku

If you feel that bust cancer merely targets old women, it is best to think two times because cancer on the breast can occur to numerous young girls. In reality, a significant amount of young women of all ages are determined with an early on stage associated with breast cancer tumor disease.

Most women may not be really conscious of this plus they are not talked about the best way identify signs of breast cancer in ladies that's why it is really important that they need to look pertaining to signs of their body.

Women not simply the good old ones and also the youth ought to be responsible more than enough about themselves by getting good proper care of the idea, and enjoying for unusual symptoms they could found. Even when they are generally younger, they're not yet exempted through any diseases much like cancer from the breasts. Some forewarning signs of breast cancer in ladies to challenge are:

* Nipple signs. This symptom will be the first sign that a majority of women should check if they believe that there's something wrong using their breasts. The actual nipples grow to be retracted or perhaps indented. This typically points downward besides the regular facing instantly. Women could also notice abnormal and widespread discharges from your nipple.

* Busts shape and also size alterations. Another early danger signal of chest cancer will be the changes within the size on the breast. The adjustments normally happen bit by bit but occasionally, the adjustments may occur rapidly and most effective for you noticed effortlessly. The dimensions may sometimes grow greater or lesser, it varies according to every lovely women.

* Color changes. The color could possibly be visible so ladies can immediately see that there's something wrong using the breasts. It may well look reddish or pink along with the skin can evoke a skin of the orange. These modifications may occur one at this time or transpire all simultaneously.

* Roughness in the skin. The roughness would likely usually occur to the nipple aspect; however it can also be visible with any a part of the breasts skin.

* Lumps or perhaps cyst. When a new lump can be found in the bust, then probably this will be confirming that your young woman could possibly be suffering out of cancer in the breast. Go as well as see a medical professional for boob's physical examination to discover if your lump is basically associated along with cancer in the breast.

If all these warnings signs of breast cancer in ladies are seasoned, do certainly not be alarmed an excessive amount. See a medical professional immediately to get a visit and verdict. When all these signs are generally detected sooner, there can be a bigger opportunity for treatment and medication.

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Sunday, September 18, 2011

Natural Cure For Cancer - What Is It?

By Darren Kenzo Ang

Don't lose hope should you or perhaps a loved 1 is suffering from cancer suitable now. The most effective natural remedy for cancer does exist. Contrary to what medical doctors think, there is certainly HOPE for cancer victims. The "Cancer-Free--Your Guide To Gentle, Non-Toxic Healing" book can be a comprehensive and extremely informative guide intended to save hopeless lives afflicted with cancer.

The author is Bill Henderson whose wife died of ovarian cancer in spite of the numerous operations and chemotherapy remedies that she went by means of. He just isn't a medical expert but as a result of his tragic expertise he was motivated to search for an option remedy. A mission to assist numerous folks steer clear of the fate of his former wife. Twelve years of analysis and closely working with thousands of cancer survivors, cancer doctors, nutritionists, nurses, cancer professionals of all kinds resulted inside the publication of this "Cancer-free" guide offering the top option and natural remedy for all forms of cancer.

He believes that the therapy itself was the trigger of his wife's death. Conventional remedies like chemotherapy attack the cancer tumor as if it was the enemy and kill the cancer cells which includes the wholesome ones which are necessary for the other organs of the physique.

In a McGill Cancer Center survey it was cited that 75% of Americans diagnosed with cancer are stated to obtain chemotherapy therapy prescribed by their oncologists.

But...

75% of oncologists also stated that if they had cancer, they themselves would NOT use chemotherapy therapy. Why? Due to its "ineffectiveness and unacceptable toxicity".

It has been reported in the 27th Annual San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium that chemo really spreads cancer cells and such release outcomes in extensive metastasis months or even years later, lengthy right after it could be suspected to be the trigger of the spread of cancer.

Even though chemotherapy medicines try to eradicate the tumors and cancer cells, it unintentionally harm the other typical dividing cells which includes cells in hair follicles, nails, the mouth, digestive tract and bone marrow (which makes blood cells.) When this takes place, the patient will knowledge the side effects of hair loss, fatigue, anemia, memory loss, nausea, vomiting, infection, infertility, diarrhea and weight modifications. Besides spreading cancer cells, chemo affects the immune program producing the physique weak to defend against future cancers. The finish result is that chemo kills additional patients than it "cures".

Folks have a tendency to consult Bill Henderson's option remedy as a last resort, immediately after their doctors have given up on them. You will discover now thousands who're "cancer-free" such as terminal cancer patients with all varieties and stages of cancer all more than the globe. When folks follow his uncomplicated diet plan and supplement regimen for 6-8 weeks, they're able to reverse their cancer.

The healing regimen within the book entails six diverse theories on the best way to handle cancer cells. These six forms of remedies are gentle, non-toxic and harmless. They all function together to create up your wholesome cells and immune method to conquer the poor ones which are causing the sickness. The 4 conditions that have to be corrected prior to any individual can overcome cancer are:

* Weak immune program
* Lack of oxygen uptake by the cells
* Excessive toxins
* Acidity

It truly is suggested that cancer victims ought to give this regimen six to eight weeks whilst postponing other remedies. If it doesn't function, He is providing extra "coaching" by telephone exactly where interaction will support clear up questions about any facts inside the book and talk about what to attempt subsequent according to the patients encounter.

Aside from the "Self-Treatment Guide", there is certainly also info on locating holistic doctors, clinics along with other resources. You'll also be taught on tips on how to test the levels of cancer cells inside your physique.

You are going to get bonus booklets about aging, diet plan, workouts, diabetes and remedy for back discomfort. All of which can tremendously aid on your campaign for far better wellness, the natural way.

You will need to understand the actual causes of cancer and discover the very best remedies that genuinely function. In case you nonetheless elect to utilize the conventional way, then this natural, non-toxic, no-side effects remedy will nonetheless function hand-in hand to offset the side effects of the so-called "medical treatments". It'll significantly support within your wellness recovery and attain the cancer-free life you've often wanted.

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Saturday, July 9, 2011

The Symptoms Of Ovarian Cancer: Can You Trust Them?

By Owen Jones


The symptoms of ovarian cancer are fairly problematic to recognize regrettably. This is because they are similar to the indications of regular menstruation or menopause that many (or most) women experience frequently anyway. The chance that women who still menstruate have, is if they notice that some of the regular feelings are not quite right.

Menopausal women have a bigger problem because they are new to their situation and it is so unpredictable anyway. The indications of ovarian cancer include: abdominal pain, a feeling of being bloated, twinges and tiredness.

That is why it is so difficult to use these symptoms as predictors or ovarian cancer. However, if you have these indications at a time when you would not normally do so, or if they last longer than usual, then it would be worth checking with a doctor or your gynecologist.

If you are worried, of course, you will need to have a check up, but if you are 'umming and ahhing', endeavor to find out whether someone in your family has had ovarian cancer before. There is a tendency for it to run in families, but that is the case or most kinds of cancer really.

However, if you are looking into your family's history of cancer, bear in mind that cancer can out itself in different ways. for example, a man obviously cannot get ovarian cancer, but if your dad died of cancer you have an increased likelihood as well, albeit it in possibly another kind.

Age is another issue in the likelihood of someone having this form of cancer - the older the more likely to be expected. There is also another bizarre twist here. Women who have had a number of children are least at risk, women who have chosen not to have children are more at danger, and women who have always been incapable of having children are most at danger.

The fact is that this is such a difficult form of cancer to home-diagnose that it is scarcely worth the trouble. You have to listen to your body and trust your gut feelings. If things are not the same as you are used to, go and have a check up as soon as you can.

Apart from that, go for a ordinary check up anyway. Different countries have different recommendations, but whatever advice that your doctor or gynecologist gives you, you should follow. Ovarian cancer can be treated successfully and not only that but if it is caught early enough in young women, treatment does not necessarily mean loss of fertility.

So, the watchword is do not miss your check ups. Almost 75% of women who are diagnosed early can expect a complete recovery. Young women have an even higher chance than older women, which means that older women should go for check ups more often than younger women.

Do not be apathetic about this form of cancer even though the symptoms of ovarian cancer are not simple to recognize, in fact that is a very good reason for you to let an expert check you out. The tests are not invasive and consist of merely a blood test and an ultra sound scan.

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Sunday, July 3, 2011

Different Stages of Mesothelioma

By John Roney


One uncommon type of cancer is known as Mesothelioma, a malignant tumor within the mesothelial tissues with the lungs and also the abdomen, arising from the inhalation of asbestos. Its rarity is among the factors why a great deal of individuals aren't conscious of this type of fatal illness. Actually, numerous individuals die of Mesothelioma undiagnosed. Even though there's now a expanding awareness with the hazards of asbestos to well being, nonetheless numerous have not heard of Mesothelioma and therefore, have not understood its nature, trigger, indicators and therapy. Even some physicians discover it tough to detect Mesothelioma simply because its signs and symptoms are akin to other illnesses like lung cancer and pneumonia. Moreover, it requires decades for a patient who was exposed to asbestos to create Mesothelioma -- fifty years, at most.

Understanding of how a specific cancer develops is pertinent towards the procedure of staging. Particular staging systems cover only a particular cancer whilst other people could be utilized to cover many different kinds. Some typical components are discovered in most staging systems, namely, place with the main tumor, size of tumor, quantity of tumors, lymph node involvement, histology kind, grade of tumor and presence of metastasis.

To figure out accurately the stage of any cancer, physicians generally depend on many different methods. These consist of physical examinations, imaging methods such as roentgenograms, CT scans, MRIs, and PET scans. Examination with the patient's blood, urine, serum and biopsy of tissues might also offer useful clues. Tumor markers might also be utilized. Pathology reports are extremely useful in supplying info concerning the precise size with the tumor, the tumor's extension into neighboring structures, and also the tumor's histology and grade. Surgical reports also render help to staging.

If the patient is in their late sixties the signs and symptoms are stated to become the normal indicators of old age. Because the illness advances the signs and symptoms not just turn out to be much more painful they also get much more severe and frequent. Individuals start to really feel shortness of breath and difficulty breathing.

They also start to endure from cardiovascular issues, coughing, fever, muscle and general fatigue, weakness and sweating not to mention swelling along with a loss of one's faculties and senses. Tumors begin to seem all more than the physique and fluid starts to construct up within the body's organs.

Brighan staging program, however, determines whether or not the Mesothelioma could be surgically removed or not and whether or not the lymph nodes are affected or not. In stage I Mesothelioma, the lymph nodes aren't but affected and also the patient can nonetheless recover via surgery. In stage II, surgery can nonetheless be executed but some lymph nodes have currently been infiltrated by the cancer cells. In stage III, the heart and chest wall are currently affected; therefore, surgery is no longer advisable. The lymph nodes in this stage, nevertheless, might or might not be affected. Within the last stage, stage IV Mesothelioma, cancer cells have currently gone towards the bloodstream along with other components with the physique such as the heart, brain, bone and liver. In most instances, a patient who has reached stage IV Mesothelioma only has 4 to twenty-four months to reside. Want to know more about mesothelioma? Research the internet for more information about this deadly disease.



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Friday, July 1, 2011

Brain Cancer: A Quick Overview and Even Faster Facts

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death among populations and is characterized by the parasitic, abnormal growth of cells in the body; it may attack any system of the body including the Central Nervous System. It attacks men and women, children and adults, whatever the race or ethnicity.

Brain cancer is defined as any abnormal tissue growth in the brain and is very broad term since this growth may be found in the blood vessels supplying the brain, the meninges or covering of the organ, or from the brain tissue itself and its components. There is no one cause for cancer, but there are several predisposing factors which may increase the risk like age, heredity, exposure to carcinogens, and presence of premalignant lesions like moles. Of the stated predisposing factors, genetics appear to be the strongest factor.

No matter the origin of this abnormal growth, the limited space inside the cranium will result to "overcrowding" which may lead to the compression of the structures within the skull, leading to an increased Intracranial Pressure. Now, if this pressure in the skull increases, it will have the following effects: it will decrease the oxygenation to the brain, cause accumulation of metabolic wastes such as lactic acid and carbonic acid, and cause impaired brain functioning. In a nutshell, having increased pressure in one's skull is bad, and since the malignant tumour grows steadily, it will progress the patient's deterioration until the brain's respiratory and circulatory centers, the pons and medulla oblongata, cease functioning because of the lack of oxygen and metabolic acidity.

To confirm the presence of a malignancy, the physician will order a tissue biopsy which will assess the suspicious cells for abnormal appearance characteristic of cancer. When it comes to innovations in cancer treatment technology and research, Texas has some of the largest programs in the United States, brain cancer Texas appears to be the mecca of Cancer management; it even sports programs that cater specifically to one group of clients, especially children and adolescents. When a tumour is confirmed to be malignant, the healthcare providers may offer the family three major options: Surgery, Chemotherapy, or Radiotherapy. Surgery is usually the first step doctors will recommend the family to take, followed by either of the two remaining treatments.

To detect malignancies, one should submit themselves to a thorough physical examination annually and to maintain a healthy lifestyle. More caution and careful screening should be practiced by those with a family history of cancer since it can run in families.

Author is a freelance copywriter. For more information about brain cancer Texas, please visit http://www.lifescript.com/doctor-directory/index.aspx

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Things To Know About Sun Damage

By Bruce Jopples

We all enjoy spending time having fun outdoors. Sadly it can have a negative effect causing sun damage especially if we do it too much and don't use adequate protection. There are many problems that can be caused just by over indulging in sunbathing and these can escalate causing many health issues over time. There are simple steps that can be taken to avoid it happening in the first place.

Ensure that while sunbathing or in the direct path of the sun that a sun lotion with a high protection factor is applied. It is necessary to keep the skin guarded. If you don't there are frightening consequences much worse than sunburn. Most of the harm that is done is long term.

The most noticeable damage that occurs is skin wrinkling. This can make you look much older and severely affect it's appearance. To prevent this happening use a face moisturizer with a Sun Protection factor (SPF). This can help to shield you from these symptoms which can be the cause of physical and psychological distress.

Overexposure can cause damage that means the elasticity of the skin is lost. This is because the production of collagen has been halted and as the youthful bounce departs from the skin creases replace it. Some people respond by resorting to expensive cosmetic procedures which could have been prevented. An excess of ultraviolet light can serve to age the skin quite rapidly.

If there's an over abundance of melanin in the skin it can make you appear tanned, . This may be a look you crave but it can also cause things like sun spots to appear. Once your tan has faded these will still be there. They have a negative impact on skin tone and can make tans seem uneven and can contribute to making you appear older.

The worst side effect of sun damage can be skin cancer. You can get this from both regular sunlight and from using tanning booths. It usually happens when the skin has been damaged at cell level. When this happens your skin can't make up enough melanin to protect itself. Skin cancer can lad to severe discomfort and even death.

It is important to respect the fact that the sun is powerful and can cause your skin problems. Make the right choice and protect yourself at all times so that you can avoid the problems caused by sun damage.

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Sunday, April 10, 2011

The Symptoms of Lymphoma in Women

By Jon Michael David

Lymphoma symptoms in women do not usually differ significantly from the symptoms of lymphoma in men.

Lymphoma typically takes its time developing and very few symptoms may be seen early on.

Here is a list of the common symptoms of lymphoma in women and symptoms of lymphoma in men, as well.

It's important to bear in mind that these lymphoma symptoms might not be lymphoma symptoms at all but symptoms of something else, all together.

That's why it is recommended that you see your physician if you feel any of them.

1. Painless swelling of the Lymph Nodes

This is the symptom most commonly associated with lymphoma and may even be the only one experienced.

It's vital to understand that many various things can trigger enlarged lymph nodes and it does not at all indicate that you have lymphoma!

Usually the lymph nodes in the groin, armpit and neck areas will swell up painlessly.

Humans have 500+ lymph nodes in the body which are basically "forts" of immunity.

When they swell up, this indicates that an immune response has been initiated by the body in reaction to some sort of microscopic invader.

You might find these swollen nodes while taking a shower or performing your daily cleaning routine.

The symptoms outlined most often only indicate a possible lymphoma if they are discovered in addition to swollen lymph nodes.

2. Weight Loss

Typically, sudden weight loss will occur over a period of several months with no good reason.

Weight loss can range from a few pounds to up to 20 or so.

3. Running a Fever

A seemingly causeless fever that keeps returning and is not connected with colds, flus, etc., is a reason to go see your doctor.

Symptoms of lymphoma can be confused with symptoms of other illnesses and, in fact, a lymphoma that causes fever accompanied by lymph node swelling is frequently mistaken for a flu or something similar.

For those individuals affected with a Hodgkins lymphoma, a characteristic kind of fever name Pel-Ebstein fever can occur.

4. Night Sweating

Sweating excessively at night, waking up soaked in sweat, etc.

5. Itchy Skin

Lymphoma cells can secrete certain substance which cause the entire body to be itchy, a condition known as pruritis.

6. Lack of Appetite

People with lymphoma may lose their appetite, which can result in dropping weight.

7. Low Energy

Cancer cells hijack the body's energy resource that would otherwise be utilized by healthy cells, causing a drop in energy levels.

8. Swelling

Lymphoma can afflict any organ and consequently impinge on surrounding veins which limits blood flow and causes swelling and inflammation.

Site-specific lymphomas produce rather widely varying symptoms.

A brain lymphoma, for instance, can produce leg pain whilst a stomach lymphoma may produce stomach aches.

Universal Symptoms of Lymphoma in Women and Universal Symptoms of Lymphoma in Men

The first and most obvious sign of lymphoma is adenopathy, aka lymphadenopathy, which is a painless swelling of the lymph nodes.

This symptom, alone, however, should not be construed as evidence for the presence of a lymphoma.

To make that determination, one needs to undergo a battery of tests.

Lymphoma symptoms can be quite various depending on the kind of lymphoma, its level of progression (metastasis), location, size of tumor, etc.

In the initial stages of a lymphoma, symptoms connected with bone-marrow problems such as anemia (low red blood cell count) are rare, although they often develop later and as a result of the actual treatment.

Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue (MALT) type lymphoma affects any mucosal area of the body, the most typical being the stomach. Changes in bowel movements and stomach pains may indicate a problem.

Those patients whose stomach lymphomas are connected with the H. Pylori bacterium can see a regression of lymphoma in up to 70% of instances where the H. Pylori is eliminated with antibiotics.

Describing Symptoms To Your Physician Helpfully:

Describe the severity of your complaint on a scale such as "This bothers me about 8 out of 10".

For visible symptoms, describe how long they've been present and whether or not they've undergone any changes since you first noticed them.

When did you first experience these symptoms?

How much time has elapsed since you began experiencing this symptom?

Do the symptoms persist or do they come and go?

Describe any medications or supplements you have used since first observing the symptoms.

Do the symptoms change depending upon time of day, body position, sleep, etc.

Do certain foods trigger the symptoms?

The more descriptive you are, the more accurate your doctor's information and ability to help you will be. It is your job to give them as much good info as possible so that they can help you figure out your options and decide the best steps to take.

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Thursday, March 24, 2011

Popular Therapies against Stage 4 Breast Cancer

By Tyler Weber

Today, many cancer therapies are very sophisticated and effective on fighting off cancer. The days are gone when humans are powerless against cancer and its consequences. It is common knowledge that cancer up to now is still difficult to cure however, the advancements in treatment strategies today make these therapies better than before.

Breast cancer is perhaps one of the most common and feared cancer types. When this type of disease is discovered at stage 4 breast cancer or the malignant stage, it is very difficult to treat. Many therapies may be available but it will still be very hard if cancer is already on the metastatic stage.

Many people can seem at a loss when faced with the different treatment options for stage 4 breast cancers. To help you with this, let us examine some of the most popular and effective medical treatment for breast cancer: Surgery to excise the cancer cells - Surgery aimed at taking away cancerous cells in the body is one of the treatments to eradicate cancer. When it is possible to remove the cancerous cells through surgery without affecting much of the organ or body function, this alternative may be the best option. Surgery for cancer treatment is ineffective if the cancer has spread throughout the body already. This therapy is only effective against some localized tumors or those that have not spread into the body systems. This means that cancer has to be at the early stages so that this surgery can be effective.

Radiation - Radiation is also one of the most popular therapies when it comes to cancer treatment. It makes use of a radioactive energy source to kill the cancer cells and stop it from multiplying uncontrollably. There are essentially two ways to deliver the radiation to the target cancer cells: an external radiation source or an internal radioactive implant. In external radiation sources, the radiation beams come from a device or equipment that does not essentially come in contact with the body. Unlike the internal radiation source that needs to be implanted inside the person's body to be effective.

Chemotherapy against cancer - The use of special medications that have properties to fight cancer is called chemotherapy. Although the cancer medicines work in different methods, they all have an end goal of stopping the cancer progression. This can lead to an end or merely a break in the cancer cycle. There may be side effects with this treatment however it still has a great potential in helping cancer stop its deadly course.

This article has hopefully shed some light on the subject of cancer treatments and therapies.

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Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Stage 4 Breast Cancer and the Methods for Early Detection

By Kara Marie

One of the most feared diseases of this century are malignancies and cancers. There are various types of cancers today but one of the most feared and common types are breast cancer. Men and women alike display a frightening increase in breast cancer rate. Breast cancer stage 4 is scary because there is a very low chance that the cancer therapies will be effective at that point.

Stage 4 breast cancer tells you that the cancer cells have already reached places and organs that are not within the breast region. A cancer discovered at this stage already will not have a good prognosis. Breast cancer must be prevented as early as possible so that the prognosis will be better. When breast cancer is detected early, the therapies will have the best effect.

This means that we should not wait for stage 4 breast cancer before finding ways to detect it.

Breast Self Exam - This is one of the most effective way to detect and prevent breast cancer. Essentially, it is easy, does not cost you a thing and you can do in the comfort of your homes. This screening test could be done while laying around in bed or even while taking a bath. Through breast self examination, many breast cancers can be detected and cured at a time when therapies and targeted treatment is most effective. It is even observable that many patients have discovered that they are suffering from breast cancer only after their partner has palpated a lump in their breast. It is always a good practice to make regular self checks to ensure that you do not have the early symptoms of cancer of the breast and do not wait until you reach stage 4 breast cancer before doing anything.

Breast examination by a health care provider - This could also be done to ensure that you do the self exam correctly or sometimes to confirm some findings. This could be a good way to detect cancer even before it progress and wreak havoc on the body.

A mammogram - It is through a mammogram that small cancerous breast lesions can be seen even before they turn to stage 4 breast cancer. This radiographic exam can detect breast cancer even without the lumps felt or other symptoms as well. Women are the majority of breast cancer sufferers in spite of the fact that it can happen to men too. After menopause, the age range near 50, women have higher risk of breast cancer.

Do these preventive and screening measures now and do not wait for it to reach stage 4 breast cancer before starting.

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Saturday, March 19, 2011

Information On Chemo For Asbestos Cancer Patients

By Peggy Browning


Mesothelioma is a dangerous kind of cancer that affects the lining of the organs and is caused by exposure to asbestos board, a naturally found substance that is seen in building supplies and metals. Through the diagnosis of mesothelioma cancer can be scary, it is important for the patient to realize that there many treatments that are available for the sufferer; including surgical removal of the mesothelioma, chemotherapy to treat asbestos cancer and radiation to complete the mesothelioma treatment.

Learning about the options that are available for therapy of asbestos cancer can assist the client to take control of asbestos cancer and begin to cite their goals within the treatment plan. Here are some of the considerations that should be made when determining between the various mesothelioma treatment options:

Chemotherapy treatment plan for Asbestos cancer

Chemotherapy is a treatment commonly used for asbestos cancer, as it can be a great way to eradicate the cancer cells causing the mesothelioma from the body, with the hopes of allowing the patient to enter into remission from asbestos cancer, allowing the person to be cancer free.

How does chemotherapy treatment for mesothelioma work?

Although one of the most effective ways to combat mesothelioma, it is necessary to understand that chemotherapy can have harsh side effects for the person that is undergoing the treatment after being diagnosed with mesothelioma. Two of the most common side effects of the treatment include nausea and being sick.

Other side effects that are associated with the use of chemotherapy for asbestos cancer include baldness and sores in the mouth and through the gums. Unfortunately, chemotherapy for mesothelioma cancer treatment is toxic to the cancer cells but also to many of the other cells in the body, causing the body to have a number of adverse side effects from the mesothelioma treatment.

Developments in asbestos cancer Therapies

Fortunately however, there are new asbestos cancer medications being developed all the time that can provide the patient undergoing chemotherapy with many options for mesothelioma cancer treatment with not as many side effects.

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Thursday, March 17, 2011

Age Spots - Possible Skin Malignancy Indicator?

By Johnny Whitmore

Sun spots, or Solar Lentigo as they is properly known, are induced by sun exposure. They are also known as liver spots because people in the past thought that they are a symptom of a liver disease. Sun spots are in reality benign in nature, but since they can make the skin look uneven, some people undergo cosmetic treatment to make them fade away.

Sun spots are more abundant in fair-skinned people than in dark-skinned ones. Although they are common among older people, they can sometimes appear on the skin of young adults, especially those who are constantly under the sun. Sun spots may appear as brown or red patches, or even darker. They are formed in areas that are usually bare like the face, the arms, and the hands.

Melanin production plays a major role in the formation of age spots, another term for sun spots. In fact, sun spots are a concentration of excess melanin in the skin. As a means of protection from the sun's UV rays, the skin would increase its production of melanin, which is characterized by the darkening of the skin due to sunburn. Sometimes, even when the sunburn has already healed, some portions of the skin, often in patches, will remain dark. Those dark patches are what we call sun spots.

Most people believe that sun spots are early signs of skin cancer although there is little or no evidence at all to prove that. However, proper diagnosis of the condition should be done as there have been reports of melanoma, a dangerous form of skin cancer, being mistaken for harmless sun spots. Sun spots may not be a sign of skin cancer but they indicate that the skin has received damaged and can be at a higher risk for skin cancer.

To prevent sun spots and other forms of sun damage, patients are advised to minimize their sun exposure. Most people do not realize that a minor sunburn is already a form of sun damage, and when left untreated may be contributing to more serious skin conditions. Wearing sunscreen and long sleeved shirt when working or playing outdoors are other excellent ways to avoid sun spots.

Sun spots usually form slowly and may only become prominent in the later years of a person's life, although sometimes, they can appear instantly as a result of sunburn. There are several ways to treat sun spots, with the most effective procedures quite expensive for most people. To avoid the trouble of having to go through cosmetic surgery, it would be best to learn more about the said condition.

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Saturday, February 26, 2011

What is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

By Raphael Patrick

Health is wealth, as they say, is true based on this we should make sure you are in great health outside and inside but it is also true that we quite often, we don't be assured that a particular sickness has already been knocking at our health's door irrespective of how we've done our best to try and prevent their attack because we don't have any idea what signs they carry and we do not have any idea that such disease ever exist.

On the subject of health problems, the majority of women nowadays aren't even aware of a sickness called Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, a common hormonal ailment impacting 5-10percent of women of reproductive age and a condition which strikes the ovaries because a woman's bodily hormones are out of balance.

The most popular trigger of this ailment is genetics and that means your parents or some of your family members may have handed this illness down to you.

Either the ovaries produce a tiny level of male sex hormones or the body could have a problem using insulin

this conditions must be given serious attention because this dysfunction leads to diabetic issues and cardiovascular disease if not medicated but to fight this ailment we first need to realize it and know when we are being infected by it,

so here are some common signs and symptoms if PCOS is coming to attack you: * Acne. * Weight gain and problems concerning weight reduction. * Presence of hair on the face and body. * Thinning hair on the scalp. * Irregular periods. * Fertility problems. * Depressive disorders. * Most women with this condition have many small cysts on their ovaries

Eating well balanced meals, exercising regularly and stopping smoking will help to be rid of PCOS but it would be best to visit your doctor to be sure on what you will need usually your doctor will prescribe birth control pills, fertility medicines and diabetes medicines and make sure to follow-up to see if the treatment is working so you can adjust it if necessary

Generally, it is really significant for us to realize and analyze any illnesses as early as possible so that we would be able to know what to do and prevent worst-case scenarios and that also goes to Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. To be able to fight against this illness we must first fully understand it be getting to know its causes and symptoms' which we have already covered and we must also know its different stages and treatments.

While there is no exact cure for this dysfunction and only treatment of signs and symptoms are used to reduce dangers of future problems, do not worry though, because Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is highly treatable if you are willing to make some lifestyle changes and if you get proper treatment, there is a pretty good chance you can live free of any symptoms and never develop difficulties such as heart problems or diabetes.

Do not wait until it is too late to educate yourself and take proper care of your health with new infections appearing regularly we can by no means be too careful.

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Saturday, February 5, 2011

Colon Cleansing Worked For Me

By Constance J. Thorrington


I'm really quite a sceptical woman. I like to evaluate things scientifically and to base my decisions upon genuine evidence, which is certainly lacking in respect of the claims made for 'colon cleansing' products. I do not believe toxins actually concentrate in the small intestine or that food 'rots' there as some suppliers claim. It is irrational to believe that these products have any beneficial effect on rates of colorectal cancer - what we can say is that they are often used by people who make beneficial changes to their lifestyles at about the same time they commence colon cleansing courses. I'm not a clinician, but I do have a career where clinical evidence has to be taken very seriously and I am unaware of any credible clinical trials of these products. That said, I am aware that literally thousands of other people swear they have had life-changing results from these cleansers. I wouldn't have given the products a second thought had I not found myself in need of help.

At 38, life was was pretty good. I really enjoyed living in Scotland and had a great (non clinical) job at the hospital in the City. Even better, I got to spend a lot of free time at the gym, dancing, swimming, diving and birdwatching. I wouldn't claim to be very fit, but, to get fit to dive I had put a lot of effort into fitness and had lost a lot of weight. I could walk for miles and miles, up and down quite steep gradients without needing to stop and rest. I was also getting the odd admiring glance now and again. As a divorcee with an eye on the future, that really pleased me.

My bowel habit, however had been causing me a bit of discomfort and concern with irregularity and constipation. bloating had also reared its ugly head. As luck would have it, it always seemed to come on when I had a diving trip planned or had arranged to go out dancing. I found myself feeling uncharacteristically grouchy and lethargic.

That was when my dive buddy convinced me to give colon cleansing a go. He claimed to have had good results with a commercial colon cleansing product. He had an ulterior motive in that he needed me as a buddy, but we'd been good friends for a while and he soon overcame my objections against my better judgment. I decided to give the colon cleanser a trial. Nothing happened for the first three or four days, but he kept encouraging me to persist with it. It was kind of weird to have these conversations with a guy, but we'd become very close. Anyway, on the fourth or fifth day, something fairly dramatic happened. It was fortuitous that I wasn't at the office! The results were quite spectacular. I really don't want to get into a poo-based discussion, but I was quite shocked at the quantity and quality of what was removed.

It didn't take long for things to stabilise and I soon found myself in the blissful position of having a completely normal bowel habit. The other dramatic result was the elimination of bloating. It COULD have been a total coincidence that the bloating stopped at the same time, but I'd made no other changes to my diet or lifestyle. I also seem to have mislaid about five pounds in weight with no other rational explanation for the loss. Did I start to exhibit boundless energy? No, but it sure was nice not to feel constipated and bloated all the time. The parasite issue is a bit more convincing now that I've read about clinical trials with probiotic yoghurt with the aim of displacing lethal C. difficile bacteria. There could well be other bowel cleansers out there that work as well and I would certainly advise anyone experiencing any change to their bowel habit to go and see their doctor as a matter of urgency. What I can tell you is that the product worked and changed my life for the better.

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Thursday, February 3, 2011

Skin Cancer Radiation Therapy

By Bart Forcey


When radiation is used to treat skin cancer it is the use of x-rays to eliminate the skin cancer cells. It will usually take multiple visits for treatment before the skin cancer can be completely destroyed. It will take place over time. Skin cancer radiation treatment is generally used when skin cancer keeps coming back or is particularly resistant to treatment.

Skin cancer radiation treatment is not a first option for treatment. There are cases, however, where it is the only option that is available. Many times the condition of the patient or other mitigating circumstances will require the use of radiation treatment for skin cancer. The reasons that skin cancer radiation treatment might be used are many. It could be that the patient has other health considerations that prevent them from undergoing other forms of treatment.

The area where the skin cancer is either too large or in an area that is not conducive to treatment with surgery are other reasons that radiation treatment might be sought. It is always possible that a skin cancer has been treated but is reoccurring frequently.

This type of treatment has been shown to have some success for difficult skin cancers. In patients who were experiencing a fifty percent re occurrence of their skin cancer the radiation treatment dropped that number to twenty five percent.

However, there are a number of threats that accompanies rays of radiation while treating skin cancer. Fresh skin cancer may develop in the part that encloses the affected area. To a great extent,It might be difficult to cure skin cancer once it reoccurs after nursing it because of the radiation. And damage might reoccur to the healthy skin in the same area.

Many possible side effects must be kept in mind as you think of skin cancer radiation treatment. Fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and redness are all possible experiences. When the treatment is stopped, though, such effects will usually dissipate.

Your doctor should have already discussed this kind of treatment for your skin cancer if you are seriously considering it. You will need to be very careful in reviewing your situation, to ensure that this treatment suits your needs. Radiation may not be the best option for treating you skin cancer, and your doctor should consider all other treatment options before proceeding with radiation treatment.

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Wednesday, February 2, 2011

What Are the Different Types Of Skin Cancer?

By Bart Forcey


Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer that is diagnosed every day. It is also highly preventable and very curable if it is caught early enough. There are three different types of skin cancers that can be found on your skin.

Squamous cell carcinoma, the first skin cancer you should know about it, comes from getting too much sun. For that reason it is most often found on the face and ears. Squamous cell carcinoma starts off as a bump and later turns into an open sore that doesn't heal. If you go without treatment, it will get bigger and bigger. This type of skin cancer can also spread to more parts of your body if you do not get it treated.

Basal cell carcinoma is another one of the types of skin cancers. These are generally found on the face, hands and neck and are as many as seventy five percent of all skin cancers that are diagnosed. Basal cell carcinoma is very treatable and can be cured quite easily if it is found early enough. The symptoms of basal cell carcinoma are a sore that bleeds and is irritated. It may also resemble a fresh scar.

Melanoma is the last and potentially the most dangerous of all the types of skin cancer. Melanoma can be found on any part of the body, but is usually found on the arms and legs and is often mistaken for a mole or a freckle. Melanoma is particularly dangerous because it can come from an existing mole that has recently changed size, shape, or color.

It is imperative that the melanoma type of skin cancer be found and eradicated early to prevent the problems that will come with the later stages of this skin cancer.

You can do a great deal to prevent skin cancer from occurring. Make sure that you take precautions when you are out in the sun to protect your skin at all times. Wear a sunscreen every time you are outside no matter the season.

Be sure to wear clothes that keep exposed areas covered. Wear your hat to keep your neck and face protected. Be sure to examine your skin for potential skin cancers frequently. Early detection often makes the difference to survival.

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Monday, January 31, 2011

Men's Health - Revealing early Symptoms of Prostate Cancer

By Kiran Sood

Cancer of prostate, also known as "adenocarcinoma", is a cancerous tumor situated on the prostate gland. It is 1 of the most widespread well being difficulties among men and could be the 2nd top cause of cancer-related fatalities in males. Detecting the early symptoms of prostate cancer can be tricky given that this condition normally does not trigger visible symptoms for several many years.

Nevertheless, it is possible to decide if you're at threat of prostate cancer by way of your family members background, dietary applications and environmental issues. Most males who find out their early symptoms of prostate cancer are aged 55 many years old and older. Much more threat factors of cancer of the prostate apart from age consist of hefty smoking and drinking, sedentary way of life, exposure to heavy metals, diets high in fatty foods and race.

The way to Spot the Early Symptoms of Cancer Of Prostate

Most folks who're identified as having prostate cancer spot the illness through prostate examinations. Prostate cancer does not usually cause signs and symptoms. As an alternative, the illness present signs and symptoms when the cancer has spread past the prostate gland. Nevertheless, early signs and symptoms of cancer of the prostate occasionally occur.

These signs and symptoms include problems to urinate or regular urination (specially at evening), painful urination and ejaculation, trouble of holding back or starting urination, interrupted or weak movement of urine and blood within the semen or urine.

Sufferers may also expertise regular pain or stiffness inside the pelvis, hips, and legs and lower back. When these early signs and symptoms of cancer of prostate do occur, they normally indicate a non-cancerous condition. Because of this cause, it really is crucial that you seek advice from having a doctor and take required prostate exams.

Prostate Exams to Identify Early Symptoms of Cancer Of Prostate

Contemporary medicine has produced two ways to detect cancer of prostate early - Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) and Prostate-specific Antigen (PSA). Whenever you undergo a DRE, the physician inserts a finger into the rectum because the prostate gland is located just in front of the rectum.

Since with this, the physician can quickly look for bumps, lumps or other achievable challenging areas around the prostate gland. If there are, additional exams are needed to decide in the event the lumps are cancerous or otherwise.

Yet another approach to detect early symptoms of prostate cancer is via testing amounts of prostate-specific antigen inside the patient's blood. Specialists suggest having a yearly exam of both DRE and PSA when a man reaches 50 many years old. Nevertheless, in case you have higher dangers of prostate cancer, it really is very best to start taking yearly exams in the day of 40.

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Friday, January 28, 2011

Asbestosis: History and Treatment

By Seomul Evans

Knowing the exact extent of each patient's asbestosis is necessary so to plan the appropriate management strategy.

Although a histopathologic examination of lung tissue is not necessary in diagnosing asbestosis, this serves a great role in determining the extent of the patient's disease. The American College of Pathologists have put out a grading scheme for these histopathological abnormalities, which runs from Grade 1 through 4. Grade 1 embodies fibrotic changes that are confined to the walls of the respiratory bronchiole without affecting the distal alveoli. Both Grades 2 and 3 label changes that identify a more advanced stage of asbestosis. Finally, Grade 4 represent fibrosis in the alveoli and septum. Honeycombing is also evident in the Grade 4 level of changes.

Asbestos bodies or ferruginous bodies can also be seen in histopathological specimens of lung tissues afflicted with Asbestosis. Ferruginous bodies are simply asbestos fibers that have come to develop a coat. This coating is made up of protein and ferritin (storage form of iron). These asbestos bodies have a characteristic appearance of long beads. Asbestos or ferruginous bodies however are not pathognomonic for asbestosis. Incidental findings of these are found in people who have no history of exposure to asbestos.

Management of asbestosis mainly revolves around the prompt cessation of exposure to asbestos once a diagnosis is reached, and a proper treatment and follow-up plan. Continued exposure to asbestos will enhance the progression of the disease. Although even when cessation of exposure has been established, asbestosis will still progress albeit at a much slower phase. Controlling asbestos exposure in places of work still remains as the most effective prevention. The wearing of respiratory protective gear as mandated by federal law should be done.

Physicians should advise patients who are smokers to quit smoking. These patients should also be referred to smoking cessation clinic to facilitate their quitting the habit. Careful search for any concurrent respiratory infections should be done. Prompt and proper anti-microbial treatment should be given if any are detected. Immunizations against seasonal Influenza virus and Pneumococcal bacteria should also be given. Particular attention must be paid to each individual patient's oxygenation status, both at rest and during exercise. If hypoxemia is detected, supplemental oxygen should be prescribed.

Treatments and follow-up plans should be tailored to each individual patient according to the severity of each patient's asbestosis and the level of functional impairments documented. The frequency of clinic visits, as well as the frequency of imaging studies and pulmonary function tests to be done should also complement the prepared treatment plan. This goes to show that an accurate and precise assessment of each individual patient's disease severity as well as level of functioning must be accomplished.

Provisions for hospice referral and palliative care should also be given appropriately once the disease reaches its terminal stages.

Medical therapy with corticosteroids and immunosuppressant drugs has not been found to alter the course of asbestosis. Although such is the case, these drugs may still be use for symptomatic relief from aggravating symptoms brought about by the various inflammatory, vasculitic and fibrosing processes that are at play.

Treatment of asbestosis revolves around basic symptomatic relief methods and a sound referral plan. Prompt recognition and diagnosis still is absolutely necessary for the apt execution of these plans.

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Monday, January 24, 2011

Prostate Cancer Diagnosis and Staging

By Ash Tewari

Prostate cancer is principally recognized through any one of three techniques: 1) Digital Rectal Exam (DRE); 2) PSA (prostate specific antigen) testing; 3) Biopsy testing. The DRE and PSA are looked upon as "screening" tests; that is, tests used to identify patients who might have prostate cancer. The biopsy test is generally conducted only if a patient has unnatural results from a DRE or PSA test.

A DRE is basically a test of an individual's lower rectum in which the doctor will search for any enlargement or irregularities (nodules) of the prostate. The DRE is commonly executed at an annual physical.

The PSA test measures the level of PSA (prostate specific antigen - a protein that is produced in the prostate gland) in the blood. The exam is taken via a small blood sample from the patient. One can not usually figure out whether cancer is present simply through the results of the PSA; that is, if results are found to be irregular, additional tests might be taken (such as the DRE or biopsy) to validate the results.

Lastly, a prostate biopsy includes using a tiny needle to gather tissue samples from the prostate gland and study them for potential evidence of cell abnormalities. Prostate biopsy is regarded as the conclusive test in putting together whether an individual has prostate cancer.

The Three Stages of Prostate Cancer

There are three various stages of prostate cancer: 1) early stage localized disease; 2) local advanced disease; 3) metastatic. In the first-stage of local disease, the cancer is constrained to the prostate alone. As the cancer grows, it spreads to nearby tissues bordering the prostate such as the seminal vesicles. Lastly, the cancer may spread (or "metastasize") throughout other areas of the system into the bones, lungs, or liver.

The major risk factors for getting prostate cancer are:

Age - An individual's likelihood of obtaining prostate cancer increases with age; the chance of getting prostate cancer increases rapidly after age 50 and persists on until death.

Race/Ethnicity- African-American males have a higher risk profile for prostate cancer than males of other backrounds. Overall, African American males are more likely to die of prostate cancer than Caucasians, Asian-Americans, or Latino-Americans. Male Descendents of Afro-Caribbean parents are regarded as being particularly at risk.

Family History - Research implies that individuals who have a genealogy and family history of prostate cancer may have a greater risk of obtaining prostate cancer.

Who should get screened?

- Guys aged 50 years and above whose life expectancy could very well extend further than a decade.

- High-risk individuals including African American men and those who have a biological dad, sibling, or son clinically determined to have prostate cancer before the age of sixty-five.

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