Lung Cancer Stages

Cancers are staged depending on how far they have spread. Staging a cancer correctly is essential to select the most appropriate treatment option. A number of diagnostic tests, such as CT scans, MRIs, bronchoscopy, blood tests, bone scans, and biopsies are used to find out how far the cancer has spread.

Non-small cell lung cancers, which account for about 80 percent of lung cancers, are staged using the Roman numerals 0 through IV. If a cancer is too small to be detected, it is called an occult or hidden cancer and not assigned any numeral. Stage 0 cancer, or carcinoma in situ, is limited to the lung and only involves a few layers of cells. Stage I cancer is still limited to the lung, with an area of normal tissue surrounding it. Stage I cancers are further divided into Stage IA and Stage IB, depending on the size of the tumor. In stage II cancer, the cancer may have spread to nearby lymph nodes, the chest wall, the diaphragm, or to the tissues lining the lung (pleura) and the heart (pericardium). In stage III cancer, lymph nodes in the central chest or on the other side of the body from the original tumor are involved. Stage III cancer is further divided into stage IIIA and stage IIIB. In stage IV cancer, the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver, bones or brain, or to a lobe of the other lung. Cancers that are stages 0 through IIIA may be treated with surgery. Treatment of stage III and stage IV cancers requires chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Small cell lung cancer has two stages. Limited-stage cancer is limited to only one lung, the tissues between the lungs, and nearby lymph nodes. In extensive-stage small cell lung cancer, the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. The brain is commonly involved in extensive-stage cancer.

About the Author:
Steve Valentino
Asbestos Lung Cancer provides detailed information on Asbestos Lung Cancer, Lung Cancer, Lung Cancer Stages, Lung Cancer Survival Rate and more. Asbestos Lung Cancer is affiliated with Asbestos Exposure.
Added: Mon Apr 10 2006
To find other free health content see e-healtharticles.com

I Don't Need A Mesothelioma Lawyer Yet

With the staggering increase in the number of mesothelioma cases, it's a wonder that more was not done earlier. Asbestos in poor working conditions is something that has been around for decades, but only recently has it been put into the media spotlight. Is it because people started dying or because the media finally shed light on this preventable disease?

Because of the increase in mesothelioma cases in industrial nation workers, it became apparent that these workers, from the miners who removed it from the ground, to the builders and others who used the finished product and all those others in between such as the wives who washed their husbands work clothes all needed some form of protection. If only those people who knew how dangerous asbestos in certain forms was, had passed their knowledge onto people working with asbestos products much of the tragedy we are watching today and will continue to see in the future would have been adverted. Although it had been known for many years that asbestos was dangerous, little was done to protect workers. I have first hand experience of this as I was an employee of James Hardie in Auckland New Zealand for three months in 1965 and I wasn't even issued with a face mask. I may not have worn it as I was 19 years old, ten foot tall and bullet proof, but that doesn't mean that my employer wasn't negligent with their duty to protect their workers. So far neither myself or my mate who worked with me have been affected. Many trade unions stepped in to increase the rights of the workers as it was determined that employers knew about the harmful effects of asbestos and willingly put workers into situations where asbestos was present, without any form of protection.

And it's not just the businesses that may be to blame for the lack of mesothelioma concern. Governments have only recently begun to investigate mesothelioma cases as word of deaths came to light in newspapers and via other media outlets. The problems have been as far reaching as Japan, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, and Great Britain - and it doesn't seem to be stopping.

This is why mesothelioma activists are starting to educate workers and businesses about the ramifications of asbestos exposure and how to prevent it. In law, mesothelioma activist is a term referring to those lawyers that deal with worker cases involving mesothelioma diseases. And the need for such lawyers has never been greater.

Finding a good mesothelioma lawyer is crucial in order for a worker to get financial compensation for their health loss. While there may not be a cure for the disease, the pain and suffering that go along with it are worth the litigation. Patients can have large medical bills from various treatments, and just as in worker's compensation cases, when the employer is responsible for putting the employee in harms way, they should also have the responsibility for compensating the employee and making the remainder of their usually much shorter life expectancy as comfortable as possible.

There is some discussion about whether companies that willingly put workers into situations with asbestos without protection should not only be responsible for providing financial support to workers, but also to society in general. Not only is the life of the worker interrupted by this awful terminal cancer, but the effect on the work population as a whole is dramatic. While more cases are being brought to light each year, the need for workers in those occupations also increases to make up for the loss of their mesothelioma cancer stricken work mates and the difficulties companies have recruiting others into such a high risk occupation.

It is crucial for a worker that may have been exposed to asbestos to go to their physician to get the proper diagnosis, not just for their health but also to pursue a financial settlement if you have contracted this insidious diesease. When this diagnosis is confirmed by testing, it is essential that a worker find a mesothelioma lawyer as soon as possible. Not only is the health and well-being of the worker at stake, but also compensation for the worker as well as for the pain and suffering of the family that they will leave behind because of a disease that their employer probably knew about - and did nothing to prevent.

About the Author:
Mike O'Brien offers advice and information about mesothelioma lawyer This is a quality web site with a choice of mesothelioma lawyer and general mesothelioma cancer information at your fingertips!
http://www.mesotheliomacancerasbestos.com/
Added: 07 Aug 2006
Article Source: http://articles.simplysearch4it.com/article/33611.html

Prostate Cancer: What it is and the Treatment options Available

About 80% of men who are 80 years old are found to have prostate cancer. It is thought that EVERY man, if they live long enough, will eventually get it. About 1 in 6 of all men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime.

The prostate gland is about walnut-sized and located just below the bladder in men. It surrounds the upper portion of the male urethra (the tube that transports both sperm and urine). The primary function of the prostate is to produce semen which is the thick fluid that transports and nourishes sperm.

Prostate cancer is an abnormal, uncontrolled growth of cells originating in the prostate gland and is the most common cancer inn men and the third leading cause of cancer deaths among American men.

It is still controversial as to when men should be screened for prostate cancer. Generally speaking, it is typically felt among physicians that men who have reached the age of 50 should have a yearly DRE (digital rectal exam) and PSA (prostate specific antigen) done on a yearly basis.

The DRE is where a doctor will palpate the prostate by passing a gloved finger into the patient's rectum to feel for any lumps, areas of hardness, or enlargement of the gland.

The PSA is a blood test is NOT a perfect test and some men can have a falsely elevated PSA and not have cancer, and have prostate cancer and have a normal PSA. It has been my experience, however, that a lot of prostate cancers have been detected with an elevated PSA, even with a normal DRE (digital rectal examination).

After a man has been screened and felt to possibly have cancer or be at high risk for prostate cancer, he should be referred to a urologist (a specialist in prostate problems) for further testing which usually consists of an ultrasound exam of the prostate and perhaps a biopsy of the gland itself.

If one is diagnosed with prostate cancer, a discussion with both your primary care physician and a urologist with experience with treating prostate cancer should be carried out. Prostate cancer is a very individual specific disease process. It can be managed various ways and there are no iron clad one way treatments for it.

The decision regarding the best treatment for the patient depends on many factors. These include the age of the man, life expectancy, other disease processes going on, health status, and how aggressive the tumor is.

There are three categories of treatment available. Depending on all factors, "watchful waiting" may be the best alternative. Most prostate cancers are slow growing and do not spread very rapidly. If the patient is elderly and may perhaps experience significant problems from aggressive treatment, then this is the best approach. In this case, regular checkups and testing is all that is needed.

Surgery is the most effective way to cure prostate cancer performing what is called a radical prostatectomy (removal of the entire prostate gland). Radiation therapy uses high energy xrays to kill or significantly shrink the cancer cells. There are two types of radiation therapy. One is called brachytherapy where one uses internal radiation from radioactive materials placed directed into the prostate to kill the cells. The other is external beam radiation where the radiation comes from beams generated outside the body.

Prostate cancer is a very common disease among men and everyone should be aware of what it is, how common it is, and how it should be diagnosed and treated.

Copyright (c) 2006 Ted Crawford

About the Author:
Dr. Ted Crawford is a family practice physican in Tucson, Arizona and has a website devoted to helping patients find reliable health information and products. His article "Prostate Cancer: "What it is and the Treatment Options Availabe" can also be found at www.babyboomersdoc.com
Article Source: http://www.articles411.com

Protect Your Baby - Talc Is Extremely Dangerous

Before using body powder on you or your baby, consider that not all body powder products are baby-safe. Body powders as well as baby powders, having talc as main ingredient may do more harm to you and your baby than good.

1. Talc Is Like Abestos!

Talc is a rock that is mined and processed by crushing and grinding, drying the grinded materials, and then milling them. Through processing, a number of trace minerals are eliminated, but some minute fibers that are comparable to ABESTOS are not separated. Talc, as it is cheap and widely available, is the main ingredient of most baby powders, perfumed body powders and medicated body powders. You put yourself and your baby at risk when you inhale these products. Body powder is used after bath to keep skin smelling good or to relieve irritated skin. Plenty of individuals are still unaware of the inextricable connection between talc and asbestos. In fact, these two chemicals are very much alike.

2. Talc Causes Cancer!

Particles of talc can cause lung and ovarian tumors. Studies have clearly shown that constant and repeated use of powder in the female’s genital area lead to cancer! Talc is able to move inside the reproductive system becomes lodged along the ovary lining. Studies show that talc particles are found in the ovarian tumor and researchers say that women with ovarian tumors have the habit of using talcum powder on their genital area.

3. Powder Inhalation Causes Deaths!

Since the early 1980’s, records prove that several infants die each year due to accidental baby powder inhalation. Talc is a household hazard. It is used on babies to prevent diaper rash and to absorb moisture in the skin, keeping babies fresh. Evidently, dusting with baby powder endangers your infant’s lungs as there is great possibility of inhaling the product. It is dangerous to expose your baby to this carcinogen. Swelling and irritation of the lungs may occur when the powder is inhaled, and therefore may lead to breathing difficulties. Also, if talc gets in contact with baby’s rash or broken skin, inflammatory reaction may take place and that could be very uncomfortable.

4. Use A Substitute!

- Instead of powder, use petroleum jelly on babies bottoms every diaper change. It is very effective in preventing diaper rash, because it provides the skin with a film, keeping wetness off the skin.
- Use medicated ointments to treat rashes on babies and on your skin.
- Ask your pediatrician about other options and products that you can safely use as a baby powder substitute.
- Cornstarch mixed with baking soda is a great and safer alternative, to keep you and your baby fresh. It is much coarser than body or baby powder, and you can also add fragrance in it, if you want to smell good after applying it.

5. Products Worth Checking Into

- Neways body and baby powder
- Natural body powder
- Dermaglow Natural body and baby powder
- Lady Emily’s Talc-free body powder
- Johnson’s cornstarch baby powder
- Burt’s bee dusting body powder
- PuriSorb. Very mild, good for all types of skin and formulated with chitosan, aloe vera, tapioca starch, and vitamin E.

6. Guidelines

- Check and read the label. The product MUST be talc-free.
- Check the date on the container and make sure that the product is fresh. Powder that is stored too long can breed bacteria and contaminate your or your baby’s skin.
- Don’t apply baby powder directly from the container. Pour it first on your palm and gently pat it unto baby’s bottom. Keep powder away from baby’s face.
- Likewise, be gentle in applying body powder to yourself. Never dust it on your face and neck directly, to avoid inhaling it, as this can lead to throat irritation.
- Don’t use body powder on both your and your baby girl’s genital area, as well as to areas surrounding it.
- Avoid putting powder on baby’s skin creases, as the powder cakes can build up and encourage bacteria growth and can cause fungal infection.
- If you have sensitive skin, an unscented body powder will be best for you.
- During diaper change, never let your baby play with the powder; it can accidentally spill on his face, causing him to choke, or that he will inhale too much powder and lead to serious lung complication.

About the Author:
John Morris
For more great baby powder related articles and resources check out http://bodypowder.bathnbodyhq.com
Article Source: http://www.articles2k.com

Discussing Breast Cancer with Others Could Save Someone’s Life

Breast cancer is the leading cause of death for women ages 40 to 59. This year alone, more than 200,000 women will be diagnosed with the disease. Another 40,000 will die from it. Even though early detection is critical to survival and every woman is at risk for developing the disease, new research shows the vast majority of women do not discuss this issue with each other.

According to a recent survey commissioned by WHEATABLES Crackers and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, there is a startling lack of dialogue among women about breast cancer risk and the importance of early detection. Sixty-five percent of women report they never or infrequently discuss breast cancer risk even though almost half report having a close personal experience (self, family or close friend diagnosed) with the disease. Seventy-three percent of mothers surveyed reported they never or hardly ever discuss breast cancer, breast self-exams or mammograms with their daughters or granddaughters and 67 percent of the women surveyed said the same about their mothers or stepmothers.

“These findings are astounding particularly because one in eight women are expected to develop breast cancer during their lifetime. Communication and conversation are critical to understanding the importance of early detection and adopting positive breast health practices,” said Susan Braun, president and CEO of the Komen Foundation.

In response, WHEATABLES Crackers and the Komen Foundation have launched a public education initiative to encourage women to talk about breast cancer. Called “Talk About Breast Cancer - It’s a Conversation Worth Having,” the initiative is designed to help women -- and those who love them -- get the conversation going.

Special WHEATABLES Crackers packaging carries pink Ribbons for Life and conversation starter tips, including:

* Make a monthly calendar note to call your mother, aunt, sister or daughter with a reminder to conduct a breast self-exam. * Enclose a note and a pink ribbon in birthday cards to female friends 40 years of age or older, reminding them to have a mammogram.

* Ask your doctor about breast health activities at every appointment. Don’t wait for the doctor to ask you.

* Send a care package with how-to tips to young women at college or away from home; once a woman turns 20, she should begin conducting monthly breast self-exams and have a doctor or nurse examine her breasts every three years.

* Develop a “buddy” system with friends. Ask them to remind you regularly about breast health activities and do the same for them.

* Share a cup of coffee, tea or cocoa and breast cancer facts with a friend: Breast cancer is the number one killer of women between the ages of 40 and 59; the majority of women who develop breast cancer had no family history of the disease; if breast cancer is detected early, a woman’s chances of survival improve significantly.

“Regular discussions that encourage breast health activities like monthly breast self-exams, annual clinical breast exams and mammograms can make a very real difference,” said Jenny Enochson, spokesperson for WHEATABLES Crackers. “That’s why we’re so committed to getting the conversation going.”

WHEATABLES Crackers will donate $5.00 to the Komen Foundation for every five ribbons clipped from its special packaging and sent in by customers. For more information about the campaign, log onto www.ribbonsforlife.com.

Courtesy of ARA Content

About the author:
Courtesy of ARA Content
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Causes and Treatments of Mesothelioma Cancer

Although the cure rate for mesothelioma is low, there are resources for support groups, new treatments, and lawyers specializing in mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that generally attacks the thin membranes, the mesothelium, that line the lungs, the abdomen, the chest, and sometimes the heart. Mesothelioma, even though it's a fairly rare form of cancer, still affects over 200 people each year in the U.S. alone. Most of the cases of mesothelioma can be directly linked to repeated exposure to asbestos.

Mesothelioma affects mostly men of ages around 50 to 70 years. This is due to the lengthly time it takes this form of cancer to form, as well as the common gender of people working in manufacturing twenty or more years ago. Symptoms are wide ranging, and can include:

Continual Cough
Shortness of Breath
Respiratory problems
Pneumonia

Other symptoms can include:

Abdominal problems including swelling and pain
Marked weight loss

In some mesothelioma patients, the mesothelioma symptoms are quite muted, making it hard for mesothelioma doctors to diagnose.

Mesothelioma (or the cancer of the mesothelium) is a disease in which cells become abnormal and replicate without control. During Mesothelioma, these cells will invade and damage tissues and organs. Mesothelioma cancer cells can spread throughout the body causing death.

Fortunately, there are many mesothelioma treatment options available. These include surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy and the mesothelioma treatment depends on the patient's age, general health and stage of the cancer. There has been much mesothelioma research conducted throughout the past few years to find new treatment methods.

Through mesothelioma research, The National Cancer Institute has sponsored mesothelioma tests and clinical trials that are designed to find new treatment methods. Because of the increase in number of mesothelioma cases in the United States, both governments have increased funding for mesothelioma research. Mesothelioma research and clinical trials have been successful in developing new techniques to fight this cancer and the outlook for more advanced mesothelioma treatments is promising.

Various Treatments for Malignant Mesothelioma

The most common treatment for malignant mesothelioma is surgery. The tissues and linings affected by mesothelioma are removed by the doctor, This may even include a lung or even diaphragm.

The second most common mesothelioma treatment is radiation therapy. This uses high energy x-rays that kill the cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be outside or inside the body.

Third most common form of treatment for mesothelioma is chemotherapy. Through pills or drugs through needles, chemotherapy drugs are used to kill cancer cells.

One new method of treatment is showing promise. This treatment method is called intraoperative photodynamic therapy. In this treatment, light and drugs are used to kill cancer cells during surgery for early stages of mesothelioma in the chest. Time will tell if this treatment is successful in the majority of patients. To emphasize, though, this treatment is has only been successful so far on early stages of mesothelioma.

The bad news is that although there are numerous treatments and drugs for mesothelioma, doctors are losing the battle against this horrific disease. Most mesothelioma treatments involve old techniques combined with different drug cocktails. These treatments have many side effects including organ damage, nausea, increase in heart failure etc. The rush to find a more effective mesothelioma treatment or even cure is ongoing at numerous clinical labs across the nation. Let's hope that the mesothelioma treatments will one day erradicate mesothelioma cancer and asbestosis.

With an abundance of information on the Internet, Mesothelioma Cancer and Asbestos has consolidated the most important issues surrounding Mesothelioma, Mesothelioma doctors and symptoms, Mesothelioma treatment, Mesothelioma research and tests.

Many websites contain useful resources on Mesothelioma lawyers and attorneys, as well as causes by asbestos exposure, asbestos removal, asbestos attorneys and lawsuits, and asbestos cancer. Patients stricken by Mesothelioma and their families require support and current information. Mesothelioma Online Resources hopes to educate and give hope to survivors and victims.

More and more research is being conducted to battle mesothelioma every year. And researchers continue to make strides and increase cure rates. Regardless, mesothelioma is such a difficult disease and the cure rate is fairly low. There are not as many treatments and drug regimes that work well with mesothelioma, and because it takes so many years to appear, it's difficult to detect early. Because of this, the death rate of mesothelioma is very high. Because funding has increased for research in battling mesothelioma, the outlook for a mesothelioma cure is quite possible. Until a cure or at least better treaments are found, mesothelioma support groups can provide the ongoing support for those suffering from mesothelioma and their families.

About the Author:
Scott Taylor is a noted author and prolific writer of many resources such as Parties & Costumes, Herbal Remedies, and Family Investing. His various websites provide information on a variety of subjects and topics. Mesothelioma Resources
Submitted on 2006-10-28
Article Source: http://www.articlesarea.com/

Are You At Risk For Breast Cancer?

Each year, millions of women learn that they have developed breast cancer. Despite most commonly being found in women, breast cancer can also be diagnosed in men. That is why breast cancer is often considered one of the most common types of all diagnosable cancers. Fortunately, you if you are diagnosed as having cancer, there are a number of treatment options that may help you become cancer free. However, before that can occur, you need to be diagnosed as having breast cancer.

When it comes to being diagnosed with breast cancer, a large amount of focus is placed on the signs and symptoms. While it is important to focus on the symptoms of breast cancer, they are not the only things that you should keep in mind. Although an exact cause of breast cancer has yet to be determined, there are a number of risk factors associated with the cancer. Determining whether or not any of these risk factors apply to you is one of the best ways, aside from regularly examining your body, to determine whether or not you may have breast cancer or end up developing it in the future.

You may be at a greater risk of developing breast cancer if someone else in your immediate family has also been diagnosed with having it. It has been noted that the BRCA1 gene and the BRCA2 gene have something to do with the development of breast cancer. Research is still being conducted on this; however, it is looking as if damaged cells, which may later account for breast cancer, are being passed down through family members. Therefore, if someone in your family has been diagnosed with breast cancer, there is a good chance that you may also develop it.

Your age may also increase your risk of developing breast cancer. While it is important to remember that breast cancer can occur at just about any age, there are a group of men and women who are more at risk. Those individuals are likely over the age of fifty. That is why it is recommended that all women over the age of forty undergo a yearly mammogram. Until that age, a self breast exam, performed by yourself or by a healthcare professional, should be enough.

When you first started your menstrual cycle, as well as when it ended, may increase your risk of developing breast cancer. It has been noted that those who began their periods before the age of twelve are at an increased risk for developing breast cancer, later on in life. The same, in a way, can be said for menopause. Recent studies have shown that the later a woman begins menopause, the more at risk she is for developing breast cancer. Menopause should begin around the age of fifty-five. If it starts to occur any later, you will want to be on the lookout for the signs and symptoms of breast cancer.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and birth control pills have been known to increase a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer. These risk factors are not as high as the above mentioned risk factors, but a connection between breast cancer, hormone replacement therapy, as well as birth control pills has been established. Therefore, if you are currently on birth control pills or are undergoing hormone replacement therapy, it may be a good idea to speak to a healthcare professional. Your OBGYN or primary care physician should be more than willing to give you inside and updated information on the connection between breast cancer and these two widely used medications.

In addition to hormone replacement therapy, birth control pills, a family history, late menopause, early menstrual periods, and age, there are a number of other risk factors that have been connected to breast cancer. These additional risk factors include, are not limited to, radiation, and excessive alcohol consumption. Now that you know whether or not you are at an increased risk of developing breast cancer, you may be able to better prepare yourself for what you may find, now or in the future.

If, at any point, you notice a lump in your breast or have unexplained breast pain, you are advised to seek medical assistance immediately. The sooner breast cancer is detected, the sooner it can be treated and gone from your life, hopefully forever.

About the Author:
Anne Childs is a contributor to http://www.healthline.com who has also conducted many seminars to raise awareness on http://www.healthline.com/channel/breast-cancer.html, and other conditions which women are most susceptible to.
This article was posted on November 14, 2006
Article Source: articlecity

Carcinoma Of The Breast (Breast Cancer)

Currently, there are more than 180,000 new cases of breast cancer every year in the United States and 46,000 deaths, and it has been estimated that one of every eight American women living to age 95 years will develop breast carcinoma. Until 1983, breast cancer was the leading cause of cancer deaths among females; despite an increase in the incidence of breast carcinoma, it is now second to lung cancer because of the larger increase in the number of women developing lung cancer.

Breast carcinoma is rare before 25 years of age and uncommon before 30 years; the incidence increases sharply after 40 years, with a mean and median age of 60 years. Statistically, the risk of breast cancer is increased in nulliparous women (nuns have a high incidence), in women who have early menarche and the late menopause, and in those who have their first pregnancy after age 30. Breast feeding appears to have protective effect for the mother. Evidence linking oral contraceptives to breast cancer is scant; a few studies suggest a very slightly increased incidence in women who use oral contraceptives.

A familial history (limited to first-degree relatives, i.e. mother, sister, daughter) of breast carcinoma increases the risk fivefold. The first-degree relatives of woman who develops bilateral breast cancer before menopause are at greatly increased risk. The increased risks resulting from atypical hyperplasia and family history are additive.

The etiology of breast carcinoma is unknown but is probably multifactorial. Genetic factors are suggested by the strong familial tendency. There is no inheritance pattern, suggested that the familial incidence is due either to the action of multiple genes or to similar environmental factors acting on members of the same family. Mutation of the BRCA-1 and BRCA-2 is believed to cause breast cancer. Hormones are also widely believed to play a role in the etiology of breast cancer. Estrogen has been the most extensively studied hormone because of the epidemiological evidence that prolonged estrogen exposure (early menarche, late menopause, nulliparity, and delayed pregnancy) increases the risk of breast cancer. Viruses are also suspected of causing breast cancer (e.g., the Bittner milk factor is a virus that causes breast carcinoma in mice).

Carcinoma of the male breast is extremely rare. It presents with a painless breast mass. Histological features are identical to those of infiltrating ductal carcinomas in the female. In spite of the small bulk of the breast in men, the diagnosis of male breast carcinoma is usually delayed; 50 % of patients have axillary lymph node metastases at the time of diagnosis. As a result, male breast cancer has a worse overall prognosis than female breast cancer.

Nulliparous—a woman who has never borne a viable child.

Hyperplasia—abnormal increase in the number of normal cells in normal arrangement in an organ or tissue, which increases in volume.

About the Author:
Wong Lai Teng
www.medical-explorer.com
Added: Wed May 18 2005
To find other free health content see e-healtharticles.com

Breast Cancer Prevention

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death, second only to lung cancer. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during her lifetime. Fortunately, there are measures you can take to help reduce your risk of developing breast cancer.

Factors that can affect your risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer are called risk factors. Risk factors can be broken down into two categories, those that can be controlled and those that cannot be controlled.

RISK FACTORS THAT CANNOT BE CONTROLLED

The risk factors you have no control over are gender, hormones, age, genetic makeup and certain environmental exposures.

GENDER: Women are much more inclined to develop breast cancer than men. This is primarily due to the estrogen and progesterone in a woman's body. These hormones stimulate cell growth in the breast, both normal and abnormal.

HORMONES: Estrogen, a hormone that is produced by the ovaries, increases a woman's risk for developing breast cancer. A woman's exposure to estrogen can increase her risk by:

+using Oral Contraceptives.

+using Hormone Replacement Therapy.

+never being pregnant or having first child after the age of 35.

+early onset of menstruation and late onset of menopause.

AGE: Aging is one of the biggest risk factors for breast cancer. After a woman passes the age of 50, the likelihood of developing breast cancer increases significantly.

GENETIC MAKEUP: There is a significantly higher risk of developing breast cancer for women who have already had breast cancer and for women who have had many family members diagnosed with cancer (regardless of the type).

ENVIRONMENT: The air we breathe and the water we drink are full of toxins (poisons) that were not present 100 years ago. Many of these toxins are known to increase the risk of or directly cause cancer.

RISK FACTORS THAT CAN BE CONTROLLED

Lifestyle changes like altering your diet, starting an exercise program and losing weight, are the easiest factors to control. Following the tips below may help you decrease your risk of breast cancer:

LOSE WEIGHT: There is a clear link between excess weight and breast cancer, especially if the weight gain is after menopause. The extra fatty tissue is a source of circulating estrogen in your body. As stated above in the GENDER risk factor, estrogen stimulates cell growth in the breast.

EAT THE RIGHT FOODS: A low-fat high-fiber diet can help reduce your risk of breast cancer and other diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Try to eat at least 5 servings of fruit and vegetables every day.

There are also some specific foods and supplements that can be very effective in your efforts to reduce the risk of breast cancer:

+FLAXSEED: Flaxseed is a supplement comprised of phytoestrogens, naturally occurring compounds that decrease estrogen production in your body, hindering the growth of breast cancer.

+OLIVE OIL: Olive oil contains oleic acid that is effective in destroying a protein that causes the growth of breast cancer tumors.

+FISH OIL: A diet rich in fish oils can be effective in preventing the development of breast tumors. Fish oil supplements are just as effective as eating the fish. Fish oil, like flaxseed, contains healthy OMEGA-3 fatty acids.

+CARROTS: Consuming foods rich in beta-carotene, such as carrots, protects the body from damaging molecules called free radicals. Free radicals cause damage to cells through oxidation that can lead to a variety of chronic illnesses such as cancer.

+FOLIC ACID: (folate) is highly effective in preventing breast cancer in both pre- and post-menopausal women. Foods high in folic acid are green, leafy vegetables, whole wheat bread, oranges, poultry, and fortified cereals.

LIMIT ALCOHOL: The more alcohol a woman drinks, the higher the risk of developing breast cancer. If you must drink, limit your intake to one small drink a day.

EXERCISE: Regular exercise provides a multitude of health benefits for your body including protection against many chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease and cancer. Exercising at least 30 minutes every day can decrease your hormone levels, lowering your risk of breast cancer.

There is nothing you can do that will guarantee a cancer-free life. All women are at risk for getting breast cancer. However, lifestyle changes, eating a healthy diet, regular exercise, and regular breast cancer screening can significantly reduce your risk of developing breast cancer.

About the Author:
Chris Chenoweth is the author of the DO-IT-YOURSELF HOME, HEALTH & MONEY GUIDE, 500 pages of household tips, home remedies, diet and nutrition information, health issues and thousands of recipes! http://www.money-home-biz.com.
Added: 18 Nov 2006
Article Source: http://articles.simplysearch4it.com/article/43258.html

25 Reasons Why You Should Drink Green Tea Now

Green tea has increasingly become a very popular drink worldwide because of its immensely powerful health benefits. It is extraordinarily amazing what green tea can do for your health. And if you're not drinking 3 to 4 cups of green tea today, you're definitely NOT doing your health a big favor.

Here Are The 25 Reasons Why You Should Start Drinking Green Tea Right Now:

1. Green Tea and Cancer

Green tea helps reduce the risk of cancer. The antioxidant in green tea is 100 times more effective than vitamin C and 25 times better than vitamin E. This helps your body at protecting cells from damage believed to be linked to cancer.

Read more about green tea and cancer at http://www.finegreentea.com/green-tea-cancer.html

2. Green Tea and Heart Disease

Green tea helps prevent heart disease and stroke by lowering the level of cholesterol. Even after the heart attack, it prevents cell deaths and speeds up the recovery of heart cells.

Read more about green tea and heart disease at http://www.finegreentea.com/green-tea-and-heart-disease.html

3. Green Tea and Anti-Aging

Green tea contains antioxidant known as polyphenols which fight against free radicals. What this means it helps you fight against aging and promotes longevity.

4. Green Tea and Weight Loss

Green tea helps with your body weight loss. Green tea burns fat and boosts your metabolism rate naturally. It can help you burn up to 70 calories in just one day. That translates to 7 pounds in one year.

Read more about green tea weight loss at http://www.finegreentea.com/green-tea-weight-loss.html

5. Green Tea and Skin

Antioxidant in green tea protects the skin from the harmful effects of free radicals, which cause wrinkling and skin aging. Green tea also helps fight against skin cancer.

Read more about green tea and skin at http://www.finegreentea.com/green-tea-skin.html

6. Green Tea and Arthritis

Green tea can help prevent and reduce the risk of rheumatoid arthritis. Green tea has benefit for your health as it protects the cartilage by blocking the enzyme that destroys cartilage.

Read more about green tea and arthritis at http://www.finegreentea.com/green-tea-and-arthritis.html

7. Green Tea and Bones

The very key to this is high fluoride content found in green tea. It helps keep your bones strong. If you drink green tea every day, this will help you preserve your bone density.

8. Green Tea and Cholesterol

Green tea can help lower cholesterol level. It also improves the ratio of good cholesterol to bad cholesterol, by reducing bad cholesterol level.

Read more about green tea and cholesterol at http://www.finegreentea.com/green-tea-and-cholesterol.html

9. Green Tea and Obesity

Green tea prevents obesity by stopping the movement of glucose in fat cells. If you are on a healthy diet, exercise regularly and drink green tea, it is unlikely you'll be obese.

10. Green Tea and Diabetes

Green tea improves lipid and glucose metabolisms, prevents sharp increases in blood sugar level, and balances your metabolism rate.

Read more about diabetes and green tea at http://www.finegreentea.com/diabetes-and-green-tea.html

11. Green Tea and Alzheimer's

Green tea helps boost your memory. And although there's no cure for Alzheimer's, it helps slow the process of reduced acetylcholine in the brain, which leads to Alzheimer's.

12. Green Tea and Parkinson's

Antioxidants in green tea helps prevent against cell damage in the brain, which could cause Parkinson's. People drinking green tea also are less likely to progress with Parkinson's.

13. Green Tea and Liver Disease

Green tea helps prevent transplant failure in people with liver failure. Researches showed that green tea destroys harmful free radicals in fatty livers.

Read more about green tea and liver disease at http://www.finegreentea.com/green-tea-liver.html

14. Green Tea and High Blood Pressure

Green tea helps prevent high blood pressure. Drinking green tea helps keep your blood pressure down by repressing angiotensin, which leads to high blood pressure.

Read more about green tea and high blood pressure at http://www.finegreentea.com/green-tea-and-high-blood-pressure.html

15. Green Tea and Food Poisoning

Catechin found in green tea can kill bacteria which causes food poisoning and kills the toxins produced by those bacteria.

16. Green Tea and Blood Sugar

Blood sugar tends to increase with age, but polyphenols and polysaccharides in green tea help lower your blood sugar level.

17. Green Tea and Immunity

Polyphenols and flavenoids found in green tea help boost your immune system, making your health stronger in fighting against infections.

18. Green Tea and Cold and Flu

Green tea prevents you from getting a cold or flu. Vitamin C in green tea helps you treat the flu and the common cold.

19. Green Tea and Asthma

Theophylline in green tea relaxes the muscles which support the bronchial tubes, reducing the severity of asthma.

20. Green Tea and Ear Infection

Green tea helps with ear infection problem. For natural ear cleaning, soak a cutton ball in green tea and clean the infected ear.

21. Green Tea and Herpes

Green tea increases the effectiveness of topical interferon treatment of herpes. First green tea compress is applied, and then let the skin dry before the interferon treatment.

22. Green Tea and Tooth Decay

Green tea destroys bacteria and viruses that cause many dental diseases. It also slows the growth of bacteria which leads to bad breath.

Read more about green tea and tooth decay at http://www.finegreentea.com/green-tea-tooth-decay.html

23. Green Tea and Stress

L-theanine, which is a kind of amino acids in green tea, can help relieve stress and anxiety.

24. Green Tea and Allergies

EGCG found in green tea relieves allergies. So, if you have allergies, you should really consider drinking green tea.

Read more about green tea and allergy at http://www.finegreentea.com/green-tea-allergy.html

25. Green Tea and HIV

Scientists in Japan have found that EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate) in green tea can stop HIV from binding to healthy immune cells. What this means is that green tea can help stop the HIV virus from spreading.

Read more about green tea and HIV at http://www.finegreentea.com/green-tea-hiv.html

How's that for only some of the health benefits that green tea has to offer you? Almost miraculous, I'd say.

Now, your health is in your hands. You know you're smart. So, start drinking three to four cups of green tea every day for a drug-free and healthier YOU!

About the author:
FineGreenTea.com
You are free to reprint this article as long as you keep all the links pointing to http://www.finegreentea.com live and clickable (this also includes the links in the article)
Find out more about green tea at http://www.finegreentea.com where you will find useful information about green tea health benefits, green tea weight loss, green tea diet and green tea extract.
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Know Your Enemy: What is Colon Cancer?

The word cancer always brings worries to anyone who hears it. In most cases, people never realize they have cancer, not until the feel some kind of pain and have it checked out, only to find out that they already have it. Especially nowadays, with the kind lifestyle that is being imposed upon us, news and studies tell us that we can get it from the foods we eat, the air we breathe and virtually almost anywhere.

We cannot know when or why colon cancer might strike us, but we can certainly take specific measures to significantly lessen the chances of getting colon cancer. But first, we have to arm ourselves with information. What is colon cancer? How would you know if you have it?

Have you had, or do you know of any one who might be experiencing change in their bowel movement, blood in their stool (scientifically referred to as melena, hematochezia) or bowel obstruction? These are some of the more obvious symptoms of colon cancer, but it is possible for the symptoms to be less specific. Things like abnormal weight loss, anemia, that occurs with symptoms like fatigue, pallor and lasting discomfort are also possible signs. If upon check-up, there is liver's enlargement (or hepatomegaly), this could be due to the tumor spreading.

Like a lot of cancer cases, there are also ocassions where no symptoms are present at all. Moreover, it is highly recommended to get check-ups for the disease from time to time.

Colon cancer, more scientifically, colorectal cancer or bowel cancer, is characterized by harmful growths in the colon or large bowel, rectum and appendix. Many think that cancers come from the formation of polyps in the colon. These polyps are commonly non-threatening, but some might progress into colon cancer over time. Colon cancer is now the third among most usual form of cancer and the second leading cause of death among cancers in the Western world.

Like we mentioned earlier, diet also plays a huge role. Studies show that if a person’s usually consists of red meat, and is low on fresh fruit, vegetables, poultry and fish invites the risk for colon cancer. A study done by the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition in June 2005 suggested that a diet high on red and processed meat and low on fiber, are associated with an increased risk of colon cancer. People who preferred fish showed a decreased risk. However, the relation between dietary fiber and risk of colon cancer remains controversial as other studies have cast doubt on claims that high fiber intake can decrease the risk of colon cancer.

The risk of developing colon cancer also increases with age. People in their 60s and 70s are more suceptible, while cases before age 50 are uncommon unless there is a history of colon cancer in the family.

In women, usually those who’ve had cancer of the ovary, uterus, or breast are at higher risk of developing colon cancer.

Smokers and physically inactive people are also more likely to develop of colon cancer.

How do you know if you have it? There are may ways of diagnosing for colon cancer, like a digital rectal exam or a PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scan. One sure way is through a colonoscopy. In a colonoscopy, a lighted probe called a colonoscope is inserted into the rectum and the entire colon to inspect for polyps and other abnormalities that may be caused by cancer.

If polyps are found during the colonoscopy, they can be immediately removed. Tissue samples can also be taken for biopsy. Therapy is usually done through surgery, with many cases also requires chemotherapy.

About the Author:
Michael Sampson
For more information please check the Cancer Resource Center.
Article Source: http://www.articles2k.com

Are Redheads More Prone to Skin Cancer?

Everyone knows that redhead sunburn easier. But do they get skin cancer easier?

Everyone knows that redhead sunburn easier. But do they get skin cancer easier? New research indicates that the pigment in their skin may instigate cancer even if they don’t suffer from sunburns. As you may have heard, getting sunburns in childhood is a risk factor for skin cancer, even later in life.

Who is prone to sunburn? Of course if you have light colored eyes, hair and skin, you are at higher risk. This combination is frequent among redheads. Redheads have a different type of melanin than people with dark hair. Blondes even carry some of the same pigments as redheads.

Duke University said that the melanin in redheads is more vulnerable to damage from the sun’s UV rays. Redheads, under exposure to the sun, developed a reaction of oxidative stress. This is where damage to DNA and cells may occur and over time, form cancer. Research used UVA and UVB rays for testing. UVA can cause damage without burning.

Sunscreens protect against UVB, but its not been shown to help against UVA. Sure, some protection is there, but the FDA will need to set guidelines for consumers. It all boils down to this: wear sunscreen and put it on your kids.

Here’s what you do:

Apply plenty of sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher and reapply every 2 hours or as indicated on the bottle.

Reapply after swimming, sweating, even drying with a towel.

Apply even during cloudy days.

Avoid the sun in the middle of the day. 10 and 4 is indoor time.

Wear a hat, clothing and sunglasses.

Take care of the kids. Overexposure early in life may lead to skin cancers later in life.

Even so, the FDA has a warning label:

"Warning -This product does not contain a sunscreen and does not protect against sunburn. Repeated exposure of unprotected skin while tanning may increase the risk of skin aging, skin cancer, and other harmful effects to the skin even if you do not burn."

Stuart Simpson http://www.tanning-products-review.com

About the Author:
Stuart Simpson
Submitted on 2005-10-05
Article Source: http://www.articlesarea.com/

How to Fight Prostate Cancer

Over the past few years Prostate Cancer has been targeted by health authorities as the largest hidden killer of men over 45 years of age. Although there have been advances in education and general public awareness, men are still demonstrating reluctance to acknowledge the need for vigilance in their everyday lives.

There are a number of ways that men can reassure themselves however.

Here is a list of facts and suggestions collated from a number of sources that you should know about.

One in every 6 men will suffer from prostate problems in their lives. So there is no need to feel isolated or a victim. Just take action and get to a doctor quickly at the first sign.
It is almost certain that quick action will lead to successful recovery. The sooner you visit your doctor and get referred to a Urologist the better your chances of successful treatment.

There is hope for the future. In 2002, scientists at Liverpool University in the UK isolated the gene that promotes the spread of prostate cancer. This information is still being explored to hopefully produce new drugs which will assist treatment of Prostate cancer outside of the normal Chemotherapy regimes currently in use.

Dietary habits are the common thread in most of the literature about prostate cancer.

• Dairy products should be eliminated and replaced by soya. Just a couple of glasses of soy milk a day can have dramatic effects.
• Lyocopene contained in tomatoes is another factor showing up in studies as an effective preventative element of a prostate cancer fighting diet. Eating one moderately sized tomato a day also provides approximately 4 mg of lycopene. Other tomato products, such as an 8-ounce portion of tomato juice or tomato paste may provide up to 25 mg of lycopene. See www.naturalhealthlive.com/Lycopene.html
• Other fruits and vegetables are also recommended, such as avocadoes, pumpkins, beans and carrots and green leafy vegetables like spinach.
• Garlic, which seems to pop up in every preventative healthy diet plan is also recommended as it contains allicin, which decreases the proliferation of cancer cells.
• Selenium which is found in garlic, tomatoes, and broccoli has also been shown to be effective.

Cut back on salt and seasonings as these have been linked to cancer.

Finally, green tea is a popular choice as a beverage so drink at least 6 cups a day.

All in all there are plenty of reasons to be positive about controlling the risk of contracting prostate Cancer. A healthy diet as outlined above, coupled with most others advocated by Dietician everywhere, will dramatically reduce your concerns and help you lead a normal healthy long life.

About the Author:
Michael Haydon has been active in the investigation of Natural Cures for many years. He has investigated claims and reported these in many respected publications.See www.naturalhealthlive.com
Article Source: ArticleToGo.com

Cancer - Cervical Smears - Women's Health

All women at some point in their life will have to have a cervical smear as a part of a health checkup. But do you know exactly what a cervical smear is, and how it can affect, diagnose or treat women's ailments? Read on for more information about this common procedure.

Women's Health: What is a Cervical Smear?
A cervical smear is a test used on women to tell if there are any changes in the health of the cervix. This is helpful to diagnose the early stages of cancer.

The cervix is located at the end of the uterus, and connects to the top of the vagina. There is a central canal that connects the vagina to the inside of the uterus, and it measures approximately 3cm square.

Women's Health: Why Have a Cervical Smear?
The main reason to have a cervical smear is to monitor the health of the cervix, and to lower the number of women who contract cervical cancer. The smear is targeted to detect early strains of potentially cancerous cells. If caught in time, women's health may not suffer terribly, and the growth of the cancer may not progress further. However, a cervical smear is just a screening process; it won't detect all forms of cancer, all of the time.

Women's Health: Who Needs a Cervical Smear?
Women who are sexually active, or who are 18 or older (whatever comes first) should take their health in their own hands and have regular cervical smears until the age of 70. A regular smear would be every three years for most women, depending on their health and the results of the last smear. Also, women who are not healthy should have annual smears, such as those with HIV. Women who have had a hysterectomy who have had abnormal pap smears in the past should get themselves checked every year by a health practitioner; there is still a risk of abnormal cell growth at the top of the vaginal canal.

Women's Health: How is a Cervical Smear Done?
A cervical smear is only taken when women are in good health, and are not bleeding. Any blood that appears during the testing can skew the results unnecessarily.

The procedure is performed with women on their backs, and their legs held up in the air by a health practitioner or stirrups. A speculum is placed inside the vagina, so that the health practitioner can view women's cervix closely. Then a brush-like instrument is placed over the cervix, and cells are wiped onto the brush, and then placed onto a glass slide for diagnosis.

Women's cervical smears can be done by a health practitioner, such as a doctor or nurse. The procedure usually only takes a couple of minutes, at the most, and isn't painful, although it may be a bit uncomfortable.

Health-Service-Online
Admin Fritz Frei
info@cancer-info.info
http://www.cancer-info.info

About the author:
Fritz Frei make it easy to check out the important details about the diagnoses and test's of the breast-cancer. To receive more information's about all cancer -questions - Links and last research NEW's - visit the http://www.cancer-info.info
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Pleural Mesothelioma – Cancer Of The Lung Lining

What is Pleural Mesothelioma?

Pleural Mesothelioma or malignant pleural mesothelioma is cancer in the layer of the lungs that can spread to the lungs. The spread of the tumor over the pleura results in pleural thickening. This hinders the reflexivity of the pleura and encases the lungs in an increasing restrictive belt. With the lungs thus restricted, they get constricted in no time and a person is always out of breath.

Pleural mesothelioma can be:

- Diffuse and malignant (carcinogenic)
- Localized and benign (non-cancerous)

Benign pleural mesothelioma can be removed surgically, but the malignant tumors are the real terror heads.

Most common among other mesothelioma cases, Pleural Mesothelioma is caused due to exposure to blue asbestos for a longer period of time, say 20 years, in which time the disease incubates only to show its fearful countenance via certain symptoms.

The symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma

The symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma include difficulty in breathing, difficulty in sleeping, pain in the chest and abdominal regions, blood vomits, weakness, weight loss, loss of appetite, lower back pains, persistent coughing, hoarseness of voice, sensory loss and difficulty in swallowing.

Diagnosis of Pleural Mesothelioma

The first step is to go through a chest X-ray or a CT scan (computed chest tomograph), which will reveal a pleural thickening and an effusion. This is followed by a bronchoscopy. However, it should always be left to a medical practitioner for a better understanding of the respective cases. Another method is a biopsy, which can be a needle biopsy, an open biopsy, or a thoracoscopy, where a mini camera is inserted inside the body and with that a tissue sample is attained for further diagnosis.

Treatment of Pleural Mesothelioma

Treatment is directly proportional to the time of the revelation of the disease, i.e., at an early stage the tumor can be removed through surgery.

A pioneering mesothelioma treatment option is immunotherapy, e.g., intrapleural inoculation of Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) is a useful mesothelioma treatment in which an effort is made to intensify the immune response.

Radiation treatment and chemotherapy is probably then the answer to the malignant pleural mesothelioma, but this can aid the pain management only; there's no escaping death with Pleural Mesothelioma.

Side effects of Treatment

The side effects and penalty of mesothelioma lung cancer treatment are more than its treatment, which is damaged healthy tissues, a state of absolute fatigue ness; excessive radiation causes the skin to become red, dry and itchy.

Other side effects of radiotherapy are nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, urinary discomfort and a sudden reduction in the number of white blood corpuscles.

The average life span of a person with Pleural Mesothelioma is up to 6 months to a year and the maximum can reach up to 5 years - the magnesium-silicate mineral fibers take its toll that's more than painful.

Other factors that may accelerate the possibility of pleural mesothelioma are chronic lung infections, tuberculous pleuritis, radiation (Thorotrast), exposure to the simian virus 40 (SV40) or mineral fibers (Zeolite) and tobacco smoking to a certain extent.

Pleural Mesothelioma does not give a person the avenue for fair play. Though the existence depends much on the various stages of the disease, it is an ultimate killing menace that sucks out the life of the common man.

About the Author:
Fred Lindell is a successful writer and publisher of health related issues, for more informative articles go to http://www.mesotheliomaplaza.com
Article Source: www.iSnare.com

Four Major Types Of Thyroid Cancer

Death due to thyroid cancer is uncommon, because of the fact that thyroid cancer is usually an indolent disease, which tends to remain confined to the thyroid gland for many years...

Death due to thyroid cancer is uncommon, because of the fact that thyroid cancer is usually an indolent disease, which tends to remain confined to the thyroid gland for many years. Thyroid cancer is fairly common, it accounts for about one percent of all cancers. This type of cancer usually responds well to treatment and many patients can be cured.

Thyroid cancer is a cancer of the thyroid glands, a butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck below the Adam's apple. The thyroid makes and stores hormones that help regulate heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and the rate at which food is converted into energy. The thyroid uses and needs iodine to make several of its hormones. Thyroid hormones also help children grow and develop.

There are four major types of thyroid cancer:

Papillary Tumors
These tumors develop in cells that produce thyroid hormones containing iodine. These cancer cells grow very slowly forming many tiny, mushroom-shaped patterns in the tumor. These tumors can be treated by doctors successfully even when the cells have spread to the nearby lymph nodes. This type of tumor accounts for about sixty percent of all thyroid cancers.

Follicular Thyroid Tumors
These tumors also develop in cells that produce iodine-containing hormones, and have a thin layer of tissue around them, called a capsule. Many follicular tumors are curable but can be difficult to control if the tumor invades blood vessels or grows through the capsule into the nearby structures of the neck.

Medullary Tumors
These tumors affect thyroid cells that produce a hormone that does not contain iodine. These tumors grow slowly but are harder to control than papillary and follicular tumors. The cancer spreads to other parts of the body.

Anaplastic Tumors
These tumors are the fastest growing thyroid tumors. The cancer cells, which are extremely abnormal, spread rapidly to other parts of the body.

The most often symptom of this disease is a nodule in the thyroid region of the neck, but only five percent of these nodules are malignant. Sometimes the first sign is an enlarged lymph node. Other symptoms include hoarseness or difficulty speaking in a normal voice, swollen lymph nodes especially in the neck, difficulty swallowing or breathing, and pain in the throat or neck. However, an infection, a benign goiter, or another problem also could cause these symptoms. Anyone with these symptoms should see a doctor as soon as possible to be diagnosed and treated properly.

Surgery is the most common form of treatment for thyroid cancer that has not spread to distant parts of the body. A part or the entire thyroid and any other affected tissue, such as the lymph nodes is usually removed with this procedure. This procedure however may not be recommended when a patient is found to have thyroid cancer that has spread. Treatment usually includes some form of systematic therapy, a treatment that can kill or slow the growth of the cancer cells throughout the body, such as chemotherapy, radioactive iodine therapy, and/or hormone therapy.

About the Author:
Joann
Read More On Thyroid Cancer
Submitted on 2006-08-29
Article Source: http://www.articlesalley.com/

Quit Smoking-try Chantix

Introduction
How many times have you felt that you are getting irritable, tensed, over-anxious, fat, fatigues, nervous, and uncomfortable for no reason? Nicotine is playing the devil's work in you perhaps! O.K., so you decide to quit but don't know how! Here is what you should be looking for from the local drug store-Chantix!

The first time you puffed nicotine you knew that it could be an addiction in the later stages. However, what you thought over the years is that its upto you to control it, right? No it's not! Smoking is a chronic medical condition that makes quitting difficult. So instead of rationalizing and trying to fight the addiction here is what you should do! Consider Chantix today!

Why should you quit smoking?
When you puff nicotine, it's a hard habit to break. When smokers inhale smoke from a cigarette, nicotine reaches the brain within seconds and binds to nicotinic receptors, which activates the reward pathway in brain circuitry. This stimulates the pleasure center in the brain. The initial effects recede quickly and a cycle of craving and withdrawal takes hold.

What is Chantix?
Chantix is a smoking cessation medicine used together with behavior modification and counseling support to help you stop smoking. Chantix or Varenicline can be four times as effective in helping a smoker give up cigarettes successfully, according to a report in JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association). Chantix was approved in the U.S. market by FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) in May. 2006. This drug has been officially the first new prescription medicine approved and manufactured by Pfizer Inc.

Chantix made some ground-breaking discoveries!
Chantix's approval was based on a comprehensive clinical trial program including four pivotal trials involving more than 2,000 cigarette smokers. Subjects on average had smoked about 21 cigarettes per day for an average of approximately 25 years. In two identically designed studies, patients receiving a 12-week course of Chantix therapy (1 mg twice daily) nearly quadrupled the likelihood of quitting than those taking placebo and had nearly twice the likelihood of quitting than those patients taking buproprion (150 mg twice daily), after the 12-week course of therapy. Enrolled patients were provided with educational materials. Patients were followed for an additional 40 weeks without treatment. After one year, approximately one-in-five patients who received the 12-week course of Chantix remained smoke-free. For those patients who quit at the end of 12 weeks, an additional course of 12 weeks treatment with Chantix resulted in a greater likelihood of long-term success in quitting smoking.

Conclusion
In the clinical trials, the most common adverse effects of Chantix were nausea, headache, vomiting, flatulence, insomnia, abnormal dreams, and dysgeusia (change in taste perception). However, these symptoms are nothing compared to what nicotine does to your system-cancer, heart and lung diseases, and even infertility. The choice is yours to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Buy Chantix today; live life longer the healthy way!

About the Author:
Daniels Charles, an associated editor to epharma.md, is a contributing author to the http://www.epharma.md/ for distinct article sites/journals. Please feel free to visit http://www.epharma.md/ for more information on General Health related issues like weight loss, men's health etc.Or write to him at epharm@gmail.com. Any comments and /or suggestions will be highly appreciated. Please note that this article is not a substitute for medical advice.
Submitted: 2006-09-07
Article Source: GO Articles

What Are The Four Stages of Mesothelioma Cancer?

One rare form of cancer is called Mesothelioma, a malignant tumor in the mesothelial tissues of the lungs and the abdomen, arising from the inhalation of asbestos. Its rarity is one of the reasons why a lot of people are not aware of this kind of fatal disease. In fact, many people die of Mesothelioma undiagnosed. Although there is now a growing awareness of the hazards of asbestos to health, still many have not heard of Mesothelioma and thus, have not understood its nature, cause, signs and treatment. Even some physicians find it hard to detect Mesothelioma because its symptoms are akin to other diseases like lung cancer and pneumonia. Furthermore, it takes decades for a patient who was exposed to asbestos to develop Mesothelioma — fifty years, at most.

Being unaware of Mesothelioma poses higher risks since it deters diagnosis and treatment. A person undergoing treatment must know the different stages of the cancer or the extent of the disease. Chances of recovering from Mesothelioma and the kind of treatment depend on the stage of the illness. There are basically two staging systems used for Pleural Mesothelioma (lungs): TNM system and Brighan system. These staging systems are also used in other kinds of cancers; however, the first is commonly used. There is no established method in determining the stage of the Peritoneal Mesothelioma cancer (abdominal) so the TNM system is used.

There are three variables in the TNM system: tumor, lymph nodes and metastasis. In the earliest stage of Mesothelioma, stage I, the malignant Mesothelioma cells start to grow and multiply only one layer of the pleura. The pleura is the membrane that encloses the lungs and lines the wall of the chest cavity. However, there are some instances wherein the pericardium (membrane that covers the heart) and diaphragm cover are already affected. In this case, the cancer patient is still in stage I Mesothelioma.

In the second stage, the two layers of the pleura are already affected by Mesothelioma. Take note, however, that in this stage, only one side of the body is affected. Normally, the pleura produces only small amount of lubricating fluid that allows easy expanding and contracting of the lungs. The excess fluid is absorbed by the blood and the lymph vessels so there’s a balance between the amount of fluid produced and removed. During
the second stage Mesothelioma, fluid starts to build up between the membrane of the lungs and the membrane of the chest wall, resulting to pleural effusion. The increase in the volume of fluid produced causes shortness of breath and chest pain. Other Mesothelioma cancer patients experience dry and persistent cough. Diagnosis of the pleural effusion is achieved through a chest x-ray.

Stage III Mesothelioma means that the malignant cells have already spread to the chest wall, esophagus and the lymph nodes on one part of the chest. The patient may suffer severe pain near the parts affected. When not treated immediately or when the Mesothelioma patient doesn’t respond well to medication, the cancer may advance to the fourth stage. The fourth stage Mesothelioma is formidable since at this stage the Mesothelioma cells have penetrated into the bloodstream and other organs in the body like the liver, the bones and the brain. The lymph nodes on the other side of the chest may also be affected by Mesothelioma in stage IV.

Brighan staging system, on the other hand, determines whether the Mesothelioma can be surgically removed or not and whether the lymph nodes are affected or not. In stage I Mesothelioma, the lymph nodes are not yet affected and the patient can still recover through surgery. In stage II, surgery can still be executed but some lymph nodes have already been infiltrated by the cancer cells. In stage III, the heart and chest wall are already affected; thus, surgery is no longer advisable. The lymph nodes in this stage, however, may or may not be affected. In the final stage, stage IV Mesothelioma, cancer cells have already gone to the bloodstream and other parts of the body like the heart, brain, bone and liver. In most cases, a patient who has reached stage IV Mesothelioma only has four to twenty-four months to live.

About the author:
David Arnold Livingston is an advocate for Health and recommends, as a resource:
Mesothelioma Asbestos Cancer
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Is There Early Detection For Asbestos Cancer?

Asbestos was mined and used commercially in North America beginning in the late 1800s. Its use increased greatly during World War II. Since then, it has been used in many industries. For example, the building and construction industry has used it for strengthening cement and plastics as well as for insulation, fireproofing, and sound absorption. The shipbuilding industry has used asbestos to insulate boilers, steampipes, and hot water pipes.

A simple blood test could detect early signs of deadly 'asbestos cancer', scientists have claimed. Patients with mesothelioma - often caused by exposure to asbestos - often die within a few years of diagnosis.

About three-fourths of mesothelioma occurrences start in the chest cavity and is known as pleural mesothelioma. Another 10% to 20% begin in the abdomen and is called peritoneal mesothelioma.

In a study published in The Lancet, researchers say checking levels of a key protein can identify over 80% of cases at an early stage.

Researchers from the Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, Australia, developed a test to assess blood concentrations of soluble mesothelian related (SMR) protein, which has been shown to be an indicator of other cancers. The scientists believed high levels of SMR might also be seen in asbestos cancer patients.

The EPA suggested that consumers use vermiculite outdoors or in a well-ventilated area; keep vermiculite damp while using it; avoid bringing dust from vermiculite use into the home on clothing; and use premixed potting soil, which is less likely to generate dust.

Malignant mesothelioma is divided into three main types. About 50% to 70% of mesothelioma occurrences are the epithelioid type. This type has the best prognosis. The other two types are the sarcomatoid type (7%-20%), and the mixed/biphasic type (20%-35%). Treatment options for all three types are the same.

Victims who were exposed to asbestos at their workplace are entitled to compensation from government, while those who were exposed by other means can get money under common law.

About the Author:
Jerry Hall Leo
Mesothelioma is a rare disease that is strongly related to exposure to Asbestos. Find out about Asbestos Hazards at http://www.ewhy.info
Article Source: www.iSnare.com

Health Benefits of Hazelnut

Hazelnut which is a very important nutritional value in a well-balanced diet, has several important health benefits in protecting against diseases. Having special combination of oil (especially oleic acid rich oil structure), proteins, carbohydrate, beta-sitosterol, essential vitamins and minerals, giving hazelnut a special place among other nuts for its unique ability to protect against diseases. It is known that consuming only 25-30 gr of hazelnuts a day, is enough for daily vitamin E needs and a very good way of protecting against heart-vein diseases and cancer

Hazelnut and hazelnut oil is the best known source for Vitamin E which is essential for the healthy heart muscles and other muscles of the body as well. It is also necessary for normal functioning of the reproduction system. Vitamin E prevents the disintegration of red blood cells, thus it serves as a protection against deficiency of blood which is called anemia. Another benefit of Vitamin E which is found in hazelnut is to prevent the factors which prepare the basis for cancer disease. If cancer is already formed in the body, then it fights to defuse the harmful cells. Beta-sitosterol, which is found amply in hazelnut, is an important mean of decreasing cholesterol and preventing cancer (breast cancer and prostate cancer).

Thus, consuming 25 gr. Hazelnut a day protects the body both for heart-disease and cancer.

Hazelnut is rich in oil. Indeed 60-70 % of hazelnut consists of oil. This structure provides not only energy to organisms, but also protection of body temperature, protection against outer factors and helps to the movement of vitamins which melt in the oil. In the combination of hazelnut oil, there are some oil acids which carry out important duties for organisms. For instance; oleic acid which is found in hazelnut oil prevents the rise of cholesterol in the blood, decreases cholesterol by 26,2%, arranges the blood sugar, increases the protective Apapratein A-1 for health-vein diseases by 25% and decreases risky Apapratein B by %7,5.

Another beneficial acid in hazelnut oil is Linoleic Acid which can be found heavily in hazelnut oil. Linoleic Acid plays very important role for the growth and healthy development of organisms.

Vitamin Components of Hazelnut

Hazelnut is a good source for B1, B2 and B6 vitamins. These vitamins are essential in blood formation and mental health, especially for those of children in development age.

The following vitamins can be found in substantial amounts in hazelnut:

Calcium which is essential for healthy bones and teeth;

Iron, which has blood production function;

Zinc, which has an important role in the development of sexual hormones;

Potassium, which is necessary for the stimulation of nervous system and the properly functioning of muscle system.

Consuming hazelnut is very important for healthy life. Eating only 25 gr hazelnuts a day can be a very good protection against many diseases including cancer and heart diseases. According to results of a research, people who consume hazelnuts or hazelnut oil, have 50% less risk of dying because of hearth attack when compared to those who never consume hazelnuts. It is the most beneficial nutraceutical element for heart health. Visit http://hazelnut-health.blogspot.com/ for more information

About the Author:
Hazel
hazelnut-health.blogspot.com/
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Tips For Preventing Cancer

Cancer is one of the most feared diseases of all time. There are so many different kinds of cancer that can strike both men and women, even children.

While modern medicine does claim a little success in eliminating some kinds of cancer, its failure rate is dastardly!

The American Cancer Society estimates that nearly 1,400,000 will be diagnosed with cancer in 2006. Over ½ million will die of cancer in 2006. In addition, it is believed that 41.28% of men and women born today will be diagnosed with cancer at some time during their lifetime. This is nearly one person in two.

As frightening as the statistics are, there is so much that we can all do to reduce our odds of being a victim of cancer!

Nobel prize winner, Dr. Otto Warburg, found that healthy cells obtain their energy from oxygen, while cancer cells get their energy from fermentation, or the production of sugars! Cancer is caused by an oxygen deficient, glucose-rich (sugar) environment. Cancer cannot exist when the body is flooded with aerobic oxygen!

The body needs to have a proper pH balance (potential Hydrogen) in order to be in optimum health. A higher pH is more alkaline and oxygen rich. A lower pH is more acid and deprived of oxygen. A pH of 7.0 or higher is alkaline. Below 7.0 is considered to be acidic.

Some basic guidelines for eating to help balance your pH include:

• Drink a lot of water.
• Eliminate all soda pop.
• Reduce the amount of meat you eat.
• Minimize your consumption of sugar and sweets.
• Eat a lot of vegetables, including raw vegetables.

Much great information and more detail on balancing the pH, plus guidelines for eating can be found at www.hopeforcancer.com

Other tips that may be beneficial to helping you prevent cancer, I believe, should include the following:

1. Get regular exercise.
2. Get adequate sleep.
3. Consume good quality vitamin and mineral supplements.
4. Reduce stress in your life.
5. Laugh.
6. Have at least one or two pets. Dogs & cats can be wonderful friends to have
around.
7. Do not smoke cigarettes.
8. Use natural cleaning products as much as possible.
9. Avoid excessive use of pesticides.
10. Eat organic foods when possible and fewer processed foods. Fruits, vegetables and meats can all be obtained organically. Foods grown organically have been grown without the use of pesticides and usually have a higher vitamin-mineral content than conventionally-grown foods.
11. Do internal cleanses. Our bodies acquire numerous parasites and toxins. Probably over 90% of our diseases are caused by these parasites and toxins. Your local health-food store should be able to give you good information about various kinds of cleanses.

In summary, if your body is healthy & you rarely get sick because you are practicing good health habits, your chances of avoiding the perils of cancer are excellent!

About the Author:
Judy Thompson is a network marketer who wants to help people be healthier, both physically and financially. She believes that all products promoted should truly benefit the consumer and be worth the money paid. She represents an excellent nutrition company and a support system, which can be accessed through her website, http://www.ARealHealthNut.com She would be delighted to have you join her team.
Article Source: www.iSnare.com

Finding Valuable Cancer Information

Cancer, as everything else, has been largely discussed on the Internet. There are many sites dedicated to cancer diseases, to people suffering from cancers, to their friends and families. The Internet is a good source of valuable cancer information, but there is more to it than that. It is a means to integrate the suffering into a network of virtual friends and supporters, which doesn't let them feel isolated and alone.

The Internet helps friends and families of deceased people to realize that they are not alone with their pain, and that many people are going through the same terrible plot. One of the best traits of cancer information sites is that they unite people and help them overcome their grief.

There are a variety of forums and online discussions meant to bring people together. Cancer is a topic of great interest for many people. Anyone can read and respond to, there are options for instant messages with fellow cancer patients, cancer survivors, and cancer supporters.

One useful site for friends and family members of ill patients is Cancer and Careers.com's "What You Can Do as a Friend". It props you up with information about what your behavior in front of the ill friend should be. You shouldn't talk about certain things, neither be too optimistic, nor be too negative in your expectations.

Your main duty as a friend should be supportive and encouraging. This cancer information is very helpful at the beginning. Another essential book for friends may be Facing Cancer Together: How to Help Your Friend or Loved One by Pamela N. Brown. It can help a lot in guiding your attitude towards your ill friend.

Valuable cancer information can be found at cancernews.com. There is a large list of directories meant to give orientation to people for any local cancer support groups. Most of them can also be found at the Cancer Information Network. There are many organizations supporting cancer hotlines-- one of them is The National Cancer Institute, their site being reached at cancer.gov, others are Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization (Their site is: y-me.org/hotline), the RA Bloch Cancer Foundation Cancer Hotline (1-800-433-0464), and the Lung Cancer Alliance Toll-free Hotline (1-800-298-2436).

There are also a lot of specific information sites about different types of cancers: see Mesothelioma-net ( a site, designed to offer cancer information on the specific types of mesothelioma, its treatment, and coping strategies and so on). Another site which presents you a list of all cancers is The Cancer Information Network (at cancerlinksusa.com); and, of course, The American Cancer Society (cancer.org). The latter one gives you information on everything from prevention and early detection strategies, as well as treatment and cancer information by type. There are great statistics and investigations included, which offer you information from the past 100 years.

About the Author:
Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning health and research. Learn more at Cancer Information
Submitted: 2006-09-07
Article Source: GO Articles