Stomach Cancer Symptoms: What You Need To Know

Stomach Cancer, also known as Gastric Cancer, affects the cells of the stomach which is a part of the digestive system. The stomach processes the foods that are eaten and helps deliver waste material out of the human body.

Are there any risk factors that increase the chances for stomach cancer?

There are certain risk factors that increase the possibility of developing stomach cancer. The most significant risk factors are:

- Infection of the stomach by bacteria
- Inflammation of the stomach (gastritis)
- Age. Elder people are more vulnerable
- Gender. Males are more vulnerable
- Diet. Salted, smoked or preserved foods. Diet low in fruits and vegetables increase the danger.
- Smoking. Cigarettes and smoking can cause various types of cancer including stomach cancer.
- Gastric Polyps. A common stomach disease.
- A mother, father who has had stomach cancer.

But what are the most importand Stomach Cancer Symptoms that one should pay attention to?

In the early stages of stomach cancer, the following symptoms may occur:

- Indigestion
- Stomach Discomfort
- Mild Nausea
- Loss of Appetite
- Heartburn

The above symptoms may be the result not only of stomach cancer but of various health conditions. A doctor should be consulted if any of the above symptoms are identified.

What about the advanced stages of the disease? Are there any other significant stomach cancer symptoms?

In more advanced stages of stomach cancer the following symptoms may occur:

- Blood in the stool
- Vomiting
- Weight Loss
- Stomach Pain
- Yellowing of eyes and skin
- Trouble with swallowing

Are there any tests that can identify stomach cancer in the early stages?

There are tests that examine the stomach and the esophagus. The tests detect and diagnose the gastric cancer. Prevention is your single most importand ally when fighting with stomach problems and even stomach cancer and its symptoms.

Detailed information about stomach cancer symptoms can be found in the US National Cancer Institute.

About the Author:
Thor Zosla
I strongly recommend you have a good look at the 350 Natural & Alternative Cancer Treatments That Work. This information saved the lives of thousands of people.
Added: 21 Oct 2006
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Symptoms & Diagnosis Of Breast Cancer

Symptoms:
Early breast cancer usually does not cause pain. In fact, when breast cancer first develops, there may be no symptoms at all.
But as the cancer grows, it can cause changes that women should watch for:

- A lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the underarm area;
- A change in the size or shape of the breast;
- Nipple discharge or tenderness, or the nipple inverted into the breast;
- Ridges or pitting of the breast (the skin looks like the skin of an orange); or
- A change in the color or feel of the skin near the areola.

A woman should see her doctor about any symptoms like these. Most often, they are not cancer, but it's important to check with the doctor so that any problems can be diagnosed and treated as early as possible.

Diagnosis:
To help find the cause of any sign or symptom, a doctor does a careful physical examination and asks about personal and family medical history. In addition, the doctor may do one or more breast exams:

Clinical breast examination: The doctor can tell a lot about a lump by carefully feeling it and the tissue around it. Benign lumps often feel different from malignant ones. The doctor can examine the size and texture of the lump and determine whether the lump moves easily.

Mammography: X-rays of the breast can give the doctor important information about a breast lump.
Ultra-sonography: Ultra-sonography of both the breasts can often show whether a lump or lesion is a fluid-filled cyst (not malignant) or a solid mass (which may or may not be cancer). This test also tells about the total spread out of the disease in your breasts.

Biopsy: Often, fluid or tissue must be removed from the breast so the doctor can make a diagnosis. A woman's doctor may refer her for further evaluation to a surgeon or other health care professional that has experience with breast diseases. These doctors may perform:

- Fine-needle aspiration: A thin needle is used to remove fluid and/or cells from a breast lump. If the fluid is clear and there are no malignant cells then it is not necessary to perform further tests.
- Needle biopsy: Using special techniques, tissue can be removed with a needle from an area that looks suspicious on a mammogram but cannot be felt. Tissue removed in a needle biopsy goes to a lab to be checked by a pathologist for cancer cells.
- Surgical biopsy: In a surgical biopsy, the surgeon cuts out a sample of a lump or removes all of the lump or suspicious area and an area of healthy tissue around the edges. A pathologist then examines the tissue under a microscope to check for cancer cells.

Breast cancer can be easily curable if it is diagnosed at a early stage. Depending on the grade of the cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can be done after the surgical biopsy.

About the Author:
Author Barney Garcia writes about on Symptoms & Diagnosis Of Breast Cancer to visit :- breast cancer, breast cancer treatment
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Prostate Cancer Symptoms

The prostrate is a walnut-sized gland found only in males. It surrounds the urethra near the neck of the bladder, in front of the rectum. It secretes seminal fluid to nourish the sperm, and ejects it during ejaculation. We know the prostrate less for its role in the reproductive system than for the problem it creates in the form of prostrate cancer. One in six American males gets prostrate cancer, and one in thirty-two dies of it. It is the second most fatal cancer after lung cancer. The onset of cancer starts as the person ages, and blacks are more prone to it than whites. It runs in the family, though no specific genes have been isolated. The peak incidence of cancer starts in the age group of 65-75.

Prostrate cancer progresses very slowly in most cases, and does not have any specific symptoms during its early stages. Most of the time it is detected during a simple medical inspection by a Digital Rectal Exam (DRE), which prompts further investigations to confirm cancer.

As the cancer progresses, the gland throttles the urethra, which causes the first symptoms. The frequency of urination increases and it is very weak. There is burning pain during urination, and some traces of blood can be seen. There is a sensation of inadequate emptying of the bladder. Impotence or painful ejaculations are other important symptoms. As stage three of the cancer starts, it spreads to the adjoining area. Prostrate cancer cells attack the bones as they advance. A deep bone pain in the legs, hip and backbone should alert the patient about the possibility of this disease. When it reaches stage four, the cancer cells are transported by the lymphatic system and bloodstream and create secondary tumors in the lymphatic nodes, called metastatic prostrate cancer.

Diagnosing prostrate cancer is done in stages. When DRE needs further investigation a Prostrate Specific Antigen (PSA) test is done, which indicates the possibility of cancer. A biopsy done using a number of samples from different areas of the prostrate should confirm the presence of cancer. The treatment options are radical prostatectomy, radiation therapy and hormone therapy. But, as most of the patients are old and the progress of the disease is slow, many men opt to wait, observe and seek only symptomatic relief.

About the Author:
Seth Miller
Prostate Cancer Symptoms provides detailed information on Prostate Cancer, Prostate Cancer Symptoms, Prostate Cancer Treatments, Prostate Cancer Causes and more. Prostate Cancer Symptoms is affiliated with Prostate Health.
Added: Tue Apr 18 2006
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Prostate Cancer - What Every Man Needs to Know

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancers in men. Prostate cancer is often found in elder men and the risk of prostate cancer increases with age. It occurs mostly among the male population of 50 years and above. In prostate cancer, cancerous cells are primary formed in the prostate that then gets transferred to other cells through the process of metastasis. Prostate cancer spreads to other parts of your body like bones.

Causes of Prostate Cancer:

Scientists still do not know the exact cause behind prostate cancer. No one knows why some people suffer with prostate cancer while others do not. Clinical researchers and scientists are working hard to find the answer of this basic question. However they are optimistic to come out with a ‘prostate cancer cause’ report very soon.

Prostate Cancer Symptoms:

There are no definite prostate cancer symptoms that can be easily noticed by the patients. Prostate cancer does not show any cancer symptom or sign at the initial stage. However, few prostate cancer symptoms have been identified by the National Cancer Institute .

These specific prostate cancer symptoms are given below:
1) Frequent urination.
2) An interrupted or weak urine flow.
3) Trouble while urination.
4) Sensation of pain while ejaculation.
5) Inability to urinate.
6) Burning sensation or pain during urination.
7) Blood in the urine or in the semen.
8) Stiffness or frequent pain in the upper thighs, lower back or hips.

These symptoms are however, not specific for prostate cancer. Therefore if you experience any of these symptoms, don’t panic- just consult a doctor.
Prostate cancer treatment: Treatment of prostate cancer depends upon factors such as the location of the tumor, general health condition of the patient, age of the patient and size of the tumor.
Prostate cancer can be treated with help of following treatment methods.

1) Surgical castration by orchidectomy: the cheapest and simplest prostate cancer treatment is orchidectomy. The only disadvantage is a psychological effect of the loss of testicles.
2) Prostate cancer can be treated with the help of oestrogen hormone and LHRH-analogues. This is a "medical castration." This prostate cancer treatment is very expensive. Oestrogen can be taken orally but oestrogen prostate cancer treatment can give rise to thrombotic complications.
3) Hormone therapy can also be used as prostate cancer cure.
4) The chemical found in black pepper, which causes the tongue to burn, sweat to pout out and eyes to water commonly called as capsaicin is thought to be helpful in prostate cancer cure. US researchers have found that capsaicin can cause human cancer cells to kill themselves. This study is guiding to the way for a new prostate cancer cure.
5) Radiotherapy can also be used for prostate cancer cure. Radiotherapy just destroys cancer cells by radiation. The method is absolutely painless. But treatment of prostate cancer with the help of radiotherapy can cause some side effects like impotence and diarrhea.
6) Brachytherapy can also be applied to cure prostate cancer. Here radioactive elements inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells.

About the Author:
Tyson J Stevenson creates useful articles & reviews on a wide variety of everyday subjects. Expect to see his name often. View further samples of his work at HubbuH or at Prostate Cancer Symptom
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Ovarian Cancer

The most deadly cancers to which most women are prey is the ovarian cancer. This type of cancer is however very rare but its overall chances of development are 1 out of every 100 as compared to the breast cancer that holds a ratio of 1 out of 9. The group that is most prone to this cancer is the age group of 50 and 60's.

Symptoms of ovarian cancer
Since ovarian cancer shows any symptoms in the initial stage it is the most deadly cancer found. The problem is enhanced because of the fact that ovaries are located deep within the abdomen and there is no way out to self examine on a regular basis as it much possible in the case of breasts. The disease also produce symptoms that are often confusing and could also signal to other conditions.

Frequent symptoms of ovarian cancer are vague stomach discomfort, an expanded abdomen or even abnormal bleeding. Many women face these types of symptoms either throughout their lives and they make the mistake of not informing to their physicians. And by the time they feel it necessary to inform their physician, the tumor grows to an extent that it has spread too far to stop.

Even when your physician finds an ovarian mass, it does not always mean that there is a risk of cancer. The higher majority of ovarian masses detected in pre menopausal patients are benign and disappear as time passes by.

Greater risk
With most of the cancers, doctors don't know exactly what causes the growth of cancerous ovarian cells. Current theory states that a number of factors of which some are controllable and some are not influence the development of ovarian cancer. One proposal also suggests that there is a link in between the number of times a women ovulates during her life and her risk of developing ovarian cancer.

The factors that contribute to the risk of ovarian cancer includes ovulation for more than 40 years, women who have never being pregnant or have the first pregnancy after the age of 30 or late menopause.

Other factor that is unrelated to ovulation but ought to increase the risk of ovarian cancer includes:
1. A family history of ovarian or uterine cancer
2. Having breast cancer or benign breast cancer
3. Having colon or rectal cancer or polyps

Stages of ovarian cancer
If your physician makes a diagnosis of ovarian cancer, he or she will make categorize it as one of the 4 stages of the disease whereby stage 1 is the earliest stage in which only the ovaries are involved. Stage 2 involves spread of the cancer from the ovary to other parts of the pelvis. The cases that are diagnosed after stage 3 are the least. The most advanced stage of ovarian cancer is the stage 4 that has least chances of survival.

For further details, visit our recommended website womensreproductivehealth.info

About the Author:
Olivia Andrews, writer of womensreproductivehealth.info is a freelance journalist and has written many reviews on subjects such as finance, education, health, entertainment, music, gifts, crafts, travel, apparels and mobile phones.
Added: 07 Jul 2006
Article Source: http://articles.simplysearch4it.com/article/31224.html

Breast Cancer Causes and Treatment

About Breast Cancer:
Breast cancer is a type of uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells that can develop in one of several areas of the breast, including the ducts that carry milk to the nipple, the small sacs that produce milk (lobules) and the nonglandular tissue.Breast Cancer is estimated that 192,200 women and 1,500 men in the United States will be diagnosed with Breast cancer in 2001. Though rare in men, Breast cancer accounts for 31% of all cancer diagnosed in women. Breast cancer is a disease in which cancer cells are found in Breast tissue. There are numerous types of Breast cancer. For example, ductile cancer, found in the cells of the ducts, is the most common type of Breast cancer. Cancer that begins in the lobes or lobules is called lobular cancer. Treatment will depend on the type of Breast cancer and stage of the disease. There are also many non-cancerous (benign) Breast diseases as well.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer:
1.A lump or thickening in the breast or under the arm.
2.A clear or bloody discharge from the nipple.
3.Crusting or scaling of the nipple.
4.Nipples that don't stick out (inverted).
5.Redness or swelling of the breast.
6.Dimpling on the breast skin resembling the texture of an orange.
7.A change in the contours of the breast, such as one being higher than the other.
8.A sore or ulcer on the skin of the breast that does not heal.

Causes of Breast Cancer:
The exact cause of cancer remains a mystery. Over twenty percent of those who have cancer never know why. The primary parts that are involved are the natural parts of food, tobacco, occupational hazards, genetic composition and food additives. Other agents that have been linked with cancer are ionizing radiation, chemicals in the air and diet, vitamin deficiency, high-fat diet, stress and environmental conditions.

Diagnosis:

Biopsy: Used to diagnose tumors, a biopsy tests cells removed surgically or through aspiration for microscopic examination.

Cytology test: A test that shows the shedding of abnormal cells. A good example of a cytology test is pap smear.

Imaging techniques: low dose x-rays such as those used in a mammogram can detect early Breast cancer. Ultrasound scanners can also produce images of organs.

Chemical testing: Detect the presence of blood in the feces or elevated levels of enzyme acid phosphates in the blood.

Ultrasound: A new ultrasound technique used after a mammogram can help reduce uncertainty about whether a Breast mass is cancerous or not.

Home Care Suggestions:
-Avoid tobacco in all forms, synthetic hormones, particularly estrogen, excessive alcohol, caffeine.
-To minimize hair loss apply cold packs to the scalp while taking radiation or therapy.
-Engage in mild exercise such as walking and make it part of your daily ritual.
-If you ever receive a serious diagnosis of any kind, one of the most important things you can do is to free your mind of daily concerns.

More Detail About Breast Cancer

About the Author:
By Michal John
Added: Fri May 12 2006
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Metastatic Breast Cancer, learn all about it!

Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in one of the breasts. It is one of the most frequent cancers in women. Cancer cells can sometimes spread to other organs and tissues in your body through bloodstream or lymph system. When this happens, the cancer is called metastatic breast cancer.

In metastatic breast cancer, new tumors may form in other organs and tissues of the body as well, most frequently in the lymph nodes. These tumors are called metastases and they may also form in the liver, brain or lungs.

Metastatic Breast Cancer Symptoms

Metastatic breast cancer symptoms vary upon the area where the metastases are found. Bone metastases usually cause pain. Metastases in the liver are often associated with an increased liver size. Lung metastases are generally accompanied by shortness in breath or cough and can be seen on an X-ray.

Metastatic Breast Cancer Treatment

The treatment for metastatic breast cancer depend on the size of tumors and how much they have spread. Common treatments include radiation, chemotherapy and hormone therapies. These treatments are used either alone or combined. None of them will cure metastatic breast cancer, but they can slow down the process and reduce or eliminate symptoms.

Radiation is applied to a certain part of the body, generally the brain or a bone, in order to reduce the tumors as well as the pane. When it is given to the bone, it also decreases the risk of bone fracture. Chemotherapy is a medication treatment with anticancer drugs given either through veins or orally to kill cancer cells. Hormone therapy includes hormone pills instead of or in addition to chemotherapy. This type of treatment is mainly used for older women or the ones with other medical conditions as well. Another treatment option for metastatic breast cancer is immunotherapy, which uses the body’s immune system.

Most patients take medicines to reduce the pain. For more severe pain, the medication treatment generally includes narcotics. However, these pills do not cause addiction and when the pain in relieved, the need for taking them will also fade out.

How Long Can the Effects Last?

How long can you keep the disease under control depends on how much has the cancer spread. Proper treatment can sometimes control metastatic breast cancer for several years.

What Can You Do?

• There are also a few things you can do on your own to maximize the effects of the treatment:

• Follow the treatment plan carefully an rest often.

• Have breast or chest self-exams regularly and report any unusual changes. Do a breast exam every month, preferably at the end of your menstruation or the first day of the months if you don’t have a menstrual cycle.

• Ask the doctor to prescribe you an exercise to follow once you have finished the treatment.

• Consult a dietitian for improving your diet in order to heal tissue after the treatment and fight cancer.

• Join a support group for breast cancer.

• Talk to your family members and health care provider about the way you should be cared for if you are temporarily disabled.

• Do things that you enjoy and spend time with people that you love.

About the Author:
Nguang Nguek-Fluek
Visit us for more information about
Metastatic Breast Cancer
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Mesothelioma Cancer

Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer in the general population. However, in individuals that were exposed to asbestos, it is not as rare. There are experts that have speculated on other causes. There are incidences of Mesothelioma with no known asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma is not a lung cancer. Smoking does not cause it. It is a cancer of the mesothelial cells.

Causes of Mesothelioma
The only known, established cause of Mesothelioma is asbestos. The asbestos fibers are breathed in, travel through the lung and become lodged in the pleura, the thin, saran wrap-type membrane that lines that encases the lung. The pleura, produces a special lubricating fluid that facilitates the ability of the lungs to move inside the chest during breathing. The process of irritation from the infiltration of the asbestos fibers creates changes in the cells, which causes the Mesothelioma. This is known as pleural Mesothelioma. Less common is peritoneal Mesothelioma, which is a cancer of the membrane that encompasses the lining of the abdomen.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma
An individual with Mesothelioma experiences chest pain usually caused by a build-up of fluid in the pleural space called an effusion and shortness of breath. Since many doctors may not have expertise in the area of asbestos-related diseases, these symptoms are often believed, at first, to be attributable to other medical problems. A biopsy of the pleural tissue or fluid may reveal the cancer of the mesothelial cells and a proper diagnosis can thus be established. A history of the individual’s occupational exposure shall be taken. Since there is no “safe” level of exposure to asbestos, even brief, low level exposures may be enough to cause Mesothelioma.

Occurrence of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer and its incidence is actually increasing day by day. There is presently no known cure for Mesothelioma. As the disease progresses, the cancerous cells harden the pleura and spread. As time passes, breathing, sleeping and eating become more difficult and eventually it becomes increasingly more challenging for the victim to engage in normal activities and enjoy life.

Treatments of Mesothelioma
A number of treatments have been established to help contain the spread of the disease and reduce the pain associated with it. Chemotherapy, radiation and radical surgery to remove the lung and pleura are among the options that have been explored by the treating physician.

Prevention is better than Cure
Mesothelioma is a preventable disease. Many of the corporations that manufacture and make profit from the sale of asbestos-containing products are aware of the hazards of asbestos. Alternative fibers are available that could be used instead of asbestos. But asbestos is cheap, and available, and is a good filler and binder.

To Sum up
The varied and non-specific symptoms associated with Mesothelioma, can delay detection and diagnosis The cancer has a very long latency period, which means that it could be thirty years or more before the person even realizes that they have contracted the cancer .The onset of symptoms can take up to fifty years or more in some cases, but once the symptoms have manifested the lifespan of the person can be as short as several months. So, if you or a loved one is experiencing any of the above symptoms, consult your doctor right away. Make sure that your physician is aware of any previous asbestos exposure, and occupational risk factors.

About the author:
Rob Mellor owns the free to use www.mesotheliomasupportonline.com website helping people find out more about mesothelioma. Please visit the site for more information on mesothelioma cancer
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Prostate Cancer: All About Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a disease that affects adult males and is known to occur when the cells of the prostate begin to grow uncontrollably. Although prostate cancer can be cured if detected and treated early, most of its symptoms rarely cause concern for most men and are likely to be overlooked in the initial stages. Unfortunately, too often, cancer detection just may be postponed until it is too late.

Symptoms
Symptoms include the urge to urinate frequently, especially at night. There could be pain or bleeding while urinating and the patient may find himself suffering from frequent pain or stiffness in his lower back, hips or upper thighs. Since most of these symptoms seem to resemble fatigue or tiredness, they are often overlooked. It is recommended that a proper medical check up be undertaken at regular intervals to find track any indicative symptoms for prostate cancer.

Diagnosis
DRE and PSA tests are carried out to determine the extent of growth of your prostate cells. These tests may not prove the presence of prostate cancer, but conducting a biopsy will determine the presence of cancerous cells in the body. The biopsy method involves taking tissue samples, using needles and using ultrasound imaging to detect cancer cells. Although the biopsy procedure itself may be a short one, patients are often asked to be at the hospital stay on for a full day at the hospital where several tests are carried out. A diagnosis is also required to find out if any of the symptoms match the disease, because of the prostate cells in a cancerous condition or due to some other reason.

Grading and Staging the Disease
Gleason grading and scores help determine the extent to which the disease has spread and also to find out the damage caused by the presence of cancerous cells in the prostate. Localized, locally advanced and metastatic are the three stages in which a prostate cancer patient is classified as. These three stages are in order of the least to the most dangerous of stages of prostate cancer. Also, the chances of a cure and treatment are more possible in a localized stage and are almost impossible in the metastatic stage.

About the Author:
Author Barney Garcia writes about on Prostate Cancer: All About Prostate Cancer to visit :- prostate cancer, cancer prostate
Article Source: http://www.articles411.com

The Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer which is being discovered more and more frequently in elderly men. The most common cause of mesothelioma is from asbestos exposure and affects the membrane of many of the most vital internal organs such as the lungs and heart. Mesothelioma is particularly hard to diagnose because it shows similar symptoms to many other more common diseases.

The most common form of mesothelioma is called pleural mesothelioma. This type of mesothelioma accounts for 75% of all mesothelioma cases. Pleural mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs and has symptoms such as chest pain, coughing, breathing and swallowing difficulties, shortness of breath, wheezing and weight loss. These symptoms apply to many less serious diseases but anyone with signs of these symptoms are strongly advised to consult their doctor as soon as possible.

A less common form of mesothelioma is peritoneal mesothelioma and this form of the cancer affects the abdomen. The tissue lining the abdomen is called the peritoneum and this is what is affected. Peritoneal mesothelioma accounts for 20% of all mesothelioma cases. The symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma are weight loss, abdominal pains, loss of appetite, weakness, nausea, and abdominal swelling. These symptoms become more and more severe as the cancer develops. To learn more about these symptoms go to http://www.1-mesothelioma.co.uk

Those who are exposed to asbestos or have been exposed have a risk of obtaining mesothelioma. It is important that mesothelioma is diagnosed in its early stages so that it can be treated quickly and aggressively. The earlier it is discovered, the more likely the treatment will be successful.

About the author:
William Johnston
All the detailed information you need on the symptoms, treatment, risks, science and more about mesothelioma can be found at: http://www.1-mesothelioma.co.uk
All the detailed information you need on the symptoms, treatment, risks, science and more about asbestos can be found at: http://www.asbestos-resource.co.uk
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Cervical Cancer Signs – Do You Know Common Symptoms of Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women worldwide. And in the United States, an estimated 13,000 cases of invasive cervical cancer are expected to be diagnosed each year. Women should know what the cervical cancer signs are so that proper medical help can be obtained when needed.

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women worldwide. And in the United States, an estimated 13,000 cases of invasive cervical cancer are expected to be diagnosed each year.

Cervical cancer is usually caused by a sexually transmitted virus called the human papilloma virus or ‘HPV’. Most HPV infections will not lead to cervical cancer. However, infection with these viral types can lead to abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix. Certain changes called ‘high-grade lesions’ may progress to cervical cancer and cervical cancer signs if not treated.

Common cervical cancer signs include these symptoms:

• Vaginal bleeding after sexual intercourse

• Pelvic pain

• Pain during sexual intercourse

• Unusual vaginal discharge

• Abnormal bleeding between menstrual periods

• Heavy bleeding during your menstrual period

• Increased urinary frequency

Pap smears are the best screening technique currently available to evaluate the cells on the face of the cervix. The Pap smear is defined as a test for the signs of cervical cancer such as cancerous or pre-cancerous cells of the cervix. Most Pap smear test results come rated from Class I through Class V.

• Class I is normal,

• Class II means an irritation or inflammation,

• Class III means it is a true cervical dysplasia that can range from mild to serious,

• Class IV may be one of a variety of pre-cancers or cancers,

• Class V is one of the serious invasive cervical cancer signs.

Pap smear tests are necessary, but they are not always accurate. And their results sometimes appear normal even when a woman has the abnormal cells of cancer. If cervical cancer is suspected and the pap smear test comes back either as normal or as positive, consider getting another pap smear from a different laboratory and a second opinion from another doctor. If your Pap smear shows dysplasia, a biopsy can rule out cervical cancer.

Another testing method is being developed that uses a small fiber optic probe that may replace pap smears. This method is still being tested. Hopefully, it should give women more accurate screenings, eliminate unnecessary biopsies and help diagnose cervical cancer in its early stages.

Early stages of cervical cancer often go on without any noticeable symptoms! Cervical cancer is usually a very slow growing cancer. Cervical cancer is often diagnosed and treated in an advanced stage when the success rate is much lower. Most women that have invasive cervical cancer will be treated with surgery, chemotherapy and radiation or some combination of these. There are women that will have a hysterectomy as a consequence of cervical cancer that has spread within the cervix.

There are two types of hysterectomy -- the partial and the complete. In a partial hysterectomy, only the uterus is removed. In a complete hysterectomy, the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries are removed (the medical term for removal of the ovaries is oophorectomy).

A complete hysterectomy will have a significant impact on a woman’s hormonal balance and health since the ovaries are such an important source of hormone production. Even a partial hysterectomy can have a significant effect, first because the uterus plays a role in hormonal balance, and second because in most cases the circulation to the ovaries is impaired enough by the surgery to seriously affect their function.

There are conditions for which hysterectomy is advisable or medically necessary. These include ovarian, uterine or cervical cancer, uncontrollable bleeding, severe endometriosis (adenomyosis) and complex hyperplasia, to name a few.

Women should know what the cervical cancer symptoms are so that proper medical help can be obtained when needed. To learn more about cervical cancer signs, causes and natural treatments, visit Cervical Cancer Signs and Treatments to read more.

Copyright 2005 Olinda Rola.

About the Author:
Olinda Rola is the webmaster of http://www.safemenopausesolutions.com, a website of natural solutions for a variety of health problems. Visit her website and learn more about ways for improving your health. She is the editor of the free newsletter ‘Women’s Health Newsletter’. Go to http://www.safemenopausesolutions.com/womenshealthnewsletter.html to subscribe.
Submitted on 2005-10-05
Article Source: http://www.articlesarea.com/

The Symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma

Pleural Mesothelioma is generally an intense form of cancer that affects the membrane lining in the chest cavity. A few cases are good-natured as well. Today it is known that this form of cancer is caused by the inhaling of asbestos particles either during manufacturing or coming in contact whit the material or from living next to surroundings where asbestos is used. About three thousand new occurrences are brought to light in the USA every year.

The time mesothelioma needs to break out can be very long and vary highly. Sometimes it takes 15 years but there were also cases in the past where it took up to 40 years and longer. So most patients diagnosed with this disease are in the age group of sixties or also seventies. Because of this long latency period the disease can be in an advanced stage before it is diagnosed correctly. So the following treatment may be less effective.

It is very hard to diagnose pleural mesothelioma because this disease has no striking symptoms at the first view. The alarming indicators are disphagia (difficulty in swallowing), dyspnea (shortness of breath), persistent coughing and tightness in chest accompanied by chest pain. Warnings that the cancer has spread can be: a swollen neck, face and sometimes engorged arms. Other indications could also be fever, sweating, hoarseness or overfatigue. A further and more sophisticated stage of the symptoms can be the coughing up of blood. In this case those symptoms are mainly caused by a fluid collection in the thoracic area (effusion). It is also possible that the weak pellicle which is covering the lungs may fatten and decrease expansion and contraction. So it's harder to breathe. The cancer can spread without noticing. In certain circumstances no noticeable signs may show till it is out of hand.

84% of the patients have pleural effusions (fluid collection). The major symptoms of the pleural mesothelioma are shortness of breath (88%) and weight loss (28%).

About the Author:
Viktor Scharneweber is a young freelance writer who has put his focus on different forms of cancer especially on mesothelioma. He's the owner of http://www.mesoarticles.net/ an internet portal which offers a lot of information and articles on mesothelioma.
Added: 18 Aug 2006
Article Source: http://articles.simplysearch4it.com/article/34363.html

Lung Cancer Symptoms

In approximately 25% of people with lung cancer, there are no symptoms and the cancer is detected during screening or a routine physical examination. However, in three-quarters of lung cancer patients there are warning symptoms and signs that can alert the patient or their physician.

Most commonly, lung cancer patients experience respiratory symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, hoarseness and a persistent cough. These symptoms are very common among smokers, and are also present in a number of other conditions such as asthma, emphysema and chest infections. A new cough should always be evaluated, as it may be a symptom of lung cancer. Lung cancer may spread to the chest wall, causing chest, shoulder and back pain. If cancer cells erode lung blood vessels, the patient may cough up blood. There may also be other generalized effects that occur with most cancers, such as fever, fatigue, appetite loss and weight loss.

As a lung cancer grows, it increasingly compromises the normal functioning of an affected lung. Secondary complications may occur, such as collection of fluid in the tissue lining the lungs (pleural effusion), lung collapse, airway obstruction, and repeated lung infections. Lung cancer may also spread or metastasize to other parts of the body such as the lymph nodes, bones, liver and brain. Bone pain and abnormal liver or brain function may result.

The absence of symptoms does not necessarily indicate early disease, and the presence of non-specific chest symptoms can often go unheeded. Both these factors contribute to the fact that only about 15 percent of lung cancer patients are diagnosed in the early stages of disease. The later lung cancer is diagnosed, the less effective treatment options are. Delays in diagnosing lung cancer patients result in an overall survival rate of only 15 percent at five years after diagnosis.

About the Author:
Steve Valentino
Lung Cancer provides detailed information on Asbestos Lung Cancer, Lung Cancer, Lung Cancer Stages, Lung Cancer Survival Rate and more. Lung Cancer is affliated with Asbestos Exposure.
Added: Sat Apr 22 2006
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Understanding and Recognizing Leukemia Symptoms

Leukemia is a sort of cancer of the blood and marrow. The disease is characterized through the overproducing of immature blood cells (stem cells) that aren’t able to fully develop and carry out the activities of normal blood cells.

Each type of mature blood cells has specific traits and roles inside the body. White blood cells or leukocytes have an important role in the immune system, contributing to overcome infections. White blood cells also help in healing flesh wounds and cuts. Red blood cells or erythrocytes contain hemoglobin, which has a great importance in transporting oxygen to the cells within the organism. Red blood cells are vital for the process of cell respiration, carrying oxygen to cells and removing carbon dioxide from them. Platelets have an important role in repairing damage at the level of blood vessels, accumulating to seal any cuts or tares.

Leukemia leads to the accumulation and crowding of diseased stem cells at the level of the bone marrow, which decreases the normal production of healthy blood cells. The lack of normal blood cells leads to the appearance of leukemia symptoms. It is important to understand that despite the fact that leukemia causes an over production of white blood cells, these cells are immature and can’t substitute for normal blood cells. Due to this, the body is exposed to many forms of infection.

The most common leukemia symptoms are: anemia (insufficient number of red blood cells in the bloodstream), risks of bleeding (insufficient number of platelets in the bloodstream), nose bleeding, bleeding of the oral cavity, predisposition to bruising, high exposure to infections due to lack of white blood cells, improper healing.

Other leukemia symptoms may be fatigue, lack of concentration, poor psychical performance, fever, loss of appetite and weight loss.

In the case of chronic leukemia, which facilitates the accumulation of diseased blood cells in different places inside the body, the leukemia symptoms may be migraines, insomnia, decreased vision and hearing, loss of balance, faints and seizures. Some of these leukemia symptoms need immediate medical intervention, as they may lead to further complications.

Sometimes people with leukemia may have enlarged liver and spleen, causing abdominal swelling or enlarged lymph nodes. The body glands of the organism can also be affected by leukemia.

Leukemia symptoms have a non-specific character. This means that they can be misleading in establishing an appropriate diagnose, as they may also occur in the cases of other diseases. Medical professionals are the only persons able to distinguish leukemia from other illnesses with resembling symptoms. Proper diagnose is very important in order to quickly begin the administration of specific treatment. Blood analysis and careful body examinations can reveal the presence of leukemia. Leukemia is considered to have a high rate of mortality and although the disease can be overcome through treatment and therapy, it can cause death if its presence is not noticed in time. Therefore, prompt intervention is required for leukemia, regardless of its type.

About the Author:
Groshan Fabiola
If you want to find great content on different leukemia related issues like leukemia symptoms, leukemia causes and many more visit www.leukemia-guide.com .
Article Source: http://www.articles2k.com

Skin Cancer Symptoms + Treatments

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer and is increasing in frequency every year. Because it is curable if diagnosed early, you should be aware of the symptoms and treatments.

THE ROLE OF THE SKIN:

Our skin protects our body from injury and infection and regulates our body temperature. It is the body's largest organ and is made up of two main layers, the outer layer called the epidermis and the inner layer called the dermis.

The outer layer contains three kinds of cells, squamous cells which are flat and scaly cells on the surface, basal cells which are round cells located under the squamous cells and melanocytes (the cells that create the brown pigment that gives skin its color) that are located throughout the basal layer.

TYPES OF SKIN CANCER:

There are two types of skin cancer, non-melanoma and melanoma. Non-melanomas are the most common types and most easily cured. Malignant melanoma is the most dangerous form and the most difficult to treat.

Melanomas develop from skin cells called melanocytes. A melanoma can occur anywhere on the skin but is more likely to develop on certain parts of the body such as the legs for women and the trunk of the body for men.

Melanoma is much less common than the non-melanoma types but it is usually far more serious. Melanoma is almost always curable in its early stages. But, unlike the non-melanoma types of skin cancer, it spreads to other parts of the body making it very difficult to treat.

Non-melanomas include two types of cancer, basal cell cancers and squamous cell cancers. They are called non-melanomas because they develop from skin cells other than melanocytes. The high incidence of these cancers is related to over-exposure to the sun.

Basal cell cancer is the most common type of skin cancer and it occurs in the deepest layer of the skin. It is easier to cure than melanoma and it does not usually spread to other parts of the body.

Squamous cell skin cancer develops in the upper layer of the skin. It can spread to deeper layers of the skin and occasionally can spread to lymph nodes and other organs.

SKIN CANCER SYMPTOMS:

The following are warning signs of basal and squamous cell carcinoma. A mole, skin growth, or sore that:

+changes in color and appears translucent, tan, brown, black or multicolored.

+is bigger than other moles.

+becomes red or inflamed around the edges.

+increases in size or thickness.

+changes in texture

+changes in shape

+is bigger than the size of a pencil eraser

+becomes painful, itchy, crusty, or forms a scab

+starts oozing or bleeding

SKIN CANCER DIAGNOSIS:

If you have any of the symptoms listed above and they are present for more than a month, you must see a doctor for further evaluation. If the doctor agrees with your suspicions, a skin biopsy (the surgical removal of part of the tissue from the suspicious growth) will be performed. The type of skin cancer, where it is located, and the size of the affected area will determine the skin biopsy method used.

Once the tissue is examined, a diagnosis is made. You and your physician can then discuss treatment options. There are many treatments available, including curettage, surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. The treatment chosen is dependent upon the type of skin cancer that is diagnosed.

Remember, skin cancer is the most curable form of cancer if diagnosed and treated in its early stages. Know the symptoms, perform a self-exam every month, and see your physician if you have any suspicious skin growths.

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: 13 Nov 2006
Article Source: http://articles.simplysearch4it.com/article/42657.html

Cervical Cancer 101 what you need to know about

Cervical cancer affects the female body in the cervix region. The womb of a woman finds its opening through the cervix. Many a times the human papilloma virus causes the disease. It is transmitted sexual exchanges. The cervix being the most important organ of the reproductive system requires proper attention as far as cancer onset is concerned. Such a cancer affects the other organs of the cervix region and can cause damage to the reproductive organs. This makes the disease all the more fatal. Such a spread is commonly termed as metastasis.

Although human papilloma virus is the main cause of the disease but it is also diagnosed with women who are in a habit of smoking. The instances of lung and breast cancer associated with the cervical cancer are there. This shows that the susceptibility of women to have cancer is higher by the means of cervical cancer. The disease is indicated by the presences of warts on the area around cervix. But a regular medical check up is required because sometimes the warts may not even appear on the skin and the disease goes undetected.

The common symptoms of the disease are prolonged pains in the thoracic region. Sometimes the leg and the lower back start paining unbearably. Anemia is very frequently associated with cervical cancer. As a result of anemia the patient also experiences a weight loss and fatigue. The person also looses his normal appetite. The detection of this carcinoma by oneself is almost impossible. It is at the later stages only that, with the help of a doctor can one detect it.

The disease is very deadly as its detection is very difficult. Though the doctors can detect it by a simple pap smear but if the treatment is avoided for too long then it may cause a fatal results. The most important thing to note here is that the disease can spread to other parts of the body including the vagina and the other connective tissue. It spreads vigorously and the infection spreads very fast. The disease has the potential to damage the primary reproductive organs and jeopardize reproductive capacity of the woman.

A particular form of papilloma strain increases the vulnerability to disease. Also improper sexual behaviour and inadequate hygiene also caters to the onset of cervical cancer. A drug administered to prevent miscarriage (diethylstilbestrol), if given in great quantities also increases the susceptibility of the disease. The diagnosis of the disease is done by examining the vaginal fluid of the suspected patient and is checked for the strains of cancer.

Chemo-radiation is a combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy is an effective measure in treatment of cancer. The infected cells can also be surgically removed. But the woman has to make a tough decision regarding jeopardizing her fertility. Thus most women go for the usual medication. A simple approach to prevent the disease is to have clean habits and regular check ups. The disease can be prevented by such steps though it cannot be ruled out after these.

A healthy woman is the most important asset of a family and there fore a woman should keep her self clean and ready to prevent such disease.

About the author:
Mansi gupta writes about cervical cancer. Learn more at http://www.cervicalcancerconcern.com
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Colon Cancer Symptoms

Colon cancer is common, and often hard to detect. Colon cancer usually starts in the form of polyps in the large intestine. Unfortunately, this growth doesn’t manifest any visible symptoms. Most of the symptoms of colon cancer are difficult to notice, and are usually non-specific.

Something as casual as breathlessness, fatigue, and irritable bowel syndrome can be colon cancer warning signs. Most patients notice a change in their bowel habits and complain of narrow stool, frequent diarrhea or constipation. Unexpected weight loss, blood in stool, and bloating are commonly noticed symptoms of colon cancer. On the positive side, these non-specific symptoms are also common to relatively less harmful diseases like ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, diverticulosis, and peptic ulcers.

Colon cancer does not develop quickly. It takes years for cancerous cells to take root in the intestine and multiply. Despite the prolonged development lifecycle, colon cancer is difficult to discern, as the symptoms do not show at all until the growth and damage is significant. The right side of our colon is quite large, and detecting a small cancerous growth in this area is difficult. The growth can multiply to a large mass before it creates any blockage. If patients are alert to their health condition, they are likely to notice an iron deficiency in their body if there is a right-sided cancer growing in their intestine. Iron deficiency manifests itself in fatigue and weakness.

In contrast, the left side of our large intestine is narrower and any cancerous growth in this region will block the digestive path much quicker. If the left side of the colon is blocked, the patient is likely to experience constipation or diarrhea, narrowed stool, abdominal pains, cramps, or bloating. These will continue despite regular eating habits and exercise.

All in all, the symptoms of colon cancer are non-specific and none of them can conclusively ascertain if the patient has cancer. The only formal and definitive way of diagnosing colon cancer is clinically testing for it.

About the Author:
Seth Miller
Colon Cancer provides detailed information on Colon Cancer, Colon Cancer Symptoms, Colon Cancer Treatment, Colon Cancer Prevention and more. Colon Cancer is affliated with Colon Cleansing Products.
Added: Mon Apr 10 2006
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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/

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

The Most Fatal Killer - Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is one of the most fatal cancers worldwide, causing up to three million deaths annually...

Lung cancer is one of the most fatal cancers worldwide, causing up to three million deaths annually. Only one in ten patients diagnosed with this disease will survive the next five years. Although this was an illness that previously affected predominantly men, this disease rate for women has been increasing in the last few years because of the rising ratio of female to male smokers. In many developing countries, public education about the dangers of cigarette smoking and effective cessation programs has contributed to the slowly falling rate. Nevertheless, lung cancer still remains to be the most common form of cancer in men worldwide and the fifth most common form of cancer in women.

This fatal disease like all other cancers, results from abnormality in the body's basic unit of life, the cell. Normally, the body maintains a system checks and balances on cell growth so that cells divide to produce new cells only when needed. Interruption in the balance of this system causes an uncontrolled division of cells that eventually forms a mass known as a tumor. Any of the tissues in the lung can become cancer, but most commonly, the cancer comes from the lining of the bronchi. Since this disease tends to spread very early in its course, it is very life-threatening and one of the most difficult cancers to treat. Although it can spread to any organ in the body, the adrenal glands, liver, brain, and bone, are the most common metastases.

Recent research point to the factor with the greatest impact on risk of lung cancer is long-term exposure to inhaled carcinogens. Most common of which is exposure to tobacco smoke. The occurrence of lung cancer is strongly linked with cigarette smoking, with about 90% of the disease arising as a result of tobacco used. The numbers of cigarettes smoke over time increases the risk. Among those who smoke two or more packs of cigarettes per day, one in seven will die of lung cancer. Passive smoking or inhalation of tobacco smoke from other smokers sharing or working quarters, is also an established risk factor for the development of the disease. Non-smokers who reside with a smoker have 24% increase risk for developing lung cancer compared with non-smokers. In the U.S. an estimated 3,000 deaths that occur each year are attributed to passive smoking. Exposure to asbestos fiber, silicate fibers that can persist for a lifetime in lung tissue following exposure to asbestos, also increases the risk of the disease. Radon gas is also a known cause of the disease with an estimated 12% of deaths. Familial predisposition or genetic susceptibility is also one cause of this killer disease, studies have shown that the disease is more likely to occur I n both smoking and non-smoking relatives of those who have had this deadly illness than in the general population. The presence of certain lung diseases, particularly chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is associated with a slightly increased risk for development. Air pollution from vehicles, industry, and power plants, can raise the likelihood of developing the disease in exposed individuals.

What are the signs of lung cancer?
The early stages of the disease may not have any symptoms, but as the tumor grows in size, it can produce a variety of symptoms that includes:
* cough (especially one that doesn't go away or gets worse in character)
* chest pain
* shortness of breath
* coughing up blood or bloody phlegm
* new onset hoarseness or wheezing
* recurrent problems with pneumonia or bronchitis
* weight loss
* loss of appetite
* fatigue
* bone pain
* dizziness or double vision
* numbness or tingling in your arms or legs
* turning yellow (jaundice)

Treatment of lung cancer can involve a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy as well as newer experimental methods, but prevention of the development of the disease through smoking cessation is most important.

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