Lung Cancer Stages

Lung Cancer Stages Lung cancer begins in a person’s lungs before possibly spreading. The lungs are spongy organs located in the chest that are responsible for taking in oxygen during inhalation and exhaling carbon dioxide. Staging refers to the location of cancer as well as whether and to where the cancer has spread. By knowing the stage, the doctor can decide on the ideal treatment as well as predict the prognosis of the patient more easily.

Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Most of the time lung cancer doesn’t show any signs or symptoms early on. Instead, the symptoms usually begin once the cancer has advanced. These symptoms might include:

• Headache


• Bone pain


• Weight Loss (without trying)


• Hoarseness


• Wheezing


• Chest pain


• Shortness of breath


• Coughing up even a small quantity of blood


• Changes to a chronic (or “smoker’s”) cough


• A new cough which won’t go away

Lung Cancer Stages
The term "stage" refers to the amount to which the lung cancer spread within the body. To determine the stage, a doctor will evaluate the size of the Tumor in addition to whether there are metastases within other organs or the lymph nodes. Staging is crucial for determining the ideal treatment for a tumor as well as a patient’s prognosis. Generally speaking, patients with higher-stage tumors will have a worse prognosis compared to those with lower-stage tumors.

Tests to Stage Lung Cancer
Doctors use a combination of tests to stage lung cancer and these include PET scans, bone scans, CT scans, X-rays, and blood tests. Abnormal blood chemistry tests can indicate metastases within the liver or bone. Radiological procedures are also used to determine the size of a tumor in addition to whether it has spread to additional organs.

Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
This is the most common type of lung cancer and usually responds differently to various treatments and spreads slower than small-cell lung cancer does. The following chart outlines the stages of non-small-cell lung cancer.

Stages	Description of the Cancer
Stage 1	Within stage one, the cancer hasn’t spread to surrounding lymph nodes and remains in the lungs. There are two sub-stages. Stage 1A: The tumor measures less than 1.2 inches (3 cm) in size.
Stage 1B: The tumor is between 1.2 and 2 inches (3 to 5 cm).
Stage 2	Stage 2A: The tumor is 5 to 7 cm or the tumor is smaller than 5 cm but cancerous cells are in nearby lymph nodes.
Stage 2B: One of the following is true: The tumor is over 7 cm. The tumor is 5 to 7 cm with cancerous cells in nearby lymph nodes. The cancer is not in lymph nodes, but is in surrounding tissue or muscle. The cancer has reached a main airway. The cancer led to the lung collapsing. There are several smaller tumors within the lung.
Stage 3	Stage 3A: In this stage the cancer is either within the lymph nodes located in the center of the chest or it has spread to the surrounding tissue. The surrounding tissue can include the middle chest region, the chest wall, the pleura which covers the lung, or other lymph nodes that are located close to the lung.
Stage 3B: In this stage, the cancer spread to one of the following places: The lymph nodes located above the collarbone on either chest side. Another crucial body part like the heart, windpipe, gullet, or a main blood vessel.
Stage 4	Stage 4 lung cancer means that the cancer is either in both lungs or has entered another area of the body (like the brain, liver, or bones) or that it has led to the buildup of cancer cells that contain Fluid in The Lungs or heart.

Small-Cell Lung Cancer
This type of lung cancer is less common and involves smaller cancerous cells when they are observed under a microscope. There are only two stages of small-cell lung cancer:

• Limited Disease means that cancer is only located within the lung.


• Extensive Disease means that the cancer has spread further than the lung.

Treatments for Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is treated via four basic methods: targeted therapy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery.

1. Surgery
The surgery aims to remove the complete lung tumor as well as the lymph nodes which are nearby in the chest and the removal must include a surrounding margin of healthy lung tissue. If there is a “negative margin” then no cancer was in the healthy tissue around the tumor. The types of surgery used for lung cancer include radiofrequency ablation, pneumonectomy, segmentectomy, a wedge, or lobectomy.

2. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high energy particles such as x-rays to destroy the cancer cells. It can be external-beam radiation therapy which involves using a machine outside of the body. There is usually a specific schedule of treatments. Internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy) is less common for lung cancer and involves using implants. This treatment must focus on a specific part of the body.

3. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs which stop the ability of cancer cells to grow and divide, thereby destroying them. It can help with cancer in any stage. Most of the time chemotherapy to treat lung cancer is via IV but it can also be in the form of an oral pill. The treatment can involve one or several drugs and this depends on the type of lung cancer.

4. Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy treats the specific proteins, tissue environment or genes of the cancer. It blocks cancer from growing and spreading but also limits damage done to healthy cells. The doctor must first run tests to determine which protein, gene, or other factor to target.

How to Avoid the Worsening of Symptoms
Once diagnosed with lung cancer, you can also take several steps to prevent the symptoms from worsening and help deter the cancer from spreading.

• Stay away from cigarettes. Don’t start smoking if you have lung cancer and talk to your kids about the risks of smoking. You should also do your best to avoid secondhand smoke by staying away from places with smokers and encouraging those you know to quit.


• Maintain a healthy diet. Make sure your diet includes fruits and vegetables that contain vitamins and nutrients. Try not to take many vitamins as pills as they can actually increase your risk.


• Know the cancer. Take the time to learn about your cancer as well as the treatment options. This will give you the ability to make informed decisions.


• Seek support from family and friends. Create a support network that can provide emotional, physical and practical support, such as taking you to treatments or helping keep your home clean. You can even look for additional emotional help from various groups.


• Relax and focus. When you feel short of breath, try to relax as Anxiety and fear will make it worse. Try listening to music, praying, meditating or imagining your favorite place to relax.

For more information such as symptoms, causes as well as the staging of lung cancer, watch the video below:

Vulvar Cancer Symptoms

Vulvar Cancer Symptoms Vulvar Cancer is usually reported as a malignant outgrowth on the outer side of vulva, a genital organ of females. Vulva is anatomically the layer of skin that surrounds the vagina, urethra, labia and clitoris. Frequently vulvar cancer involves lumping and soreness of vulva that may result in itching or discomfort. Older women are at much higher risk of developing vulvar cancer; however this cancer is independent of age factor.

Vulvar Cancer Symptoms
Most of the women who develop vulvar cancer experience no specific symptoms; however they may frequently report continuous itching or irritation in the vulvar region which is often associated with the appearance of thick patch of skin as compared to the surrounding skin.

Given below are some symptoms that women with invasive vulvar cancer may experience:

• A bump that is white or pink in color with wart-like or raw surface


• A rough white area


• Continuous itching


• Burning sensation and pain while urination


• Discharge and bleeding not related to periods


• Ulcer or open sore that stays longer than a month

Women with advanced stages of vulvar cancer may observe an outgrowth similar to a genital wart.

Note: Seek immediate medical help if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Pain


• Itching


• Burning


• Abnormal bleeding

Causes and Risk Factors of Vulvar Cancer
The exact cause of vulvar cancer remains unknown, however, generally the primary pathophysiological event responsible for Tumor formation is mutation in DNA that leads to abnormally rapid division of cells and expanded life span of tumorous tissue. In long standing or poorly managed cases, tumor cells may invade the surrounding normal tissue to cause disturbing symptoms.

Listed below are the risk factors associated with vulvar cancer:

• Age: Postmenopausal women are at much higher risk compared to women in reproductive age group, yet cases brought to clinical practice in young females increasing.


• Sexually transmitted infections


• Having multiple sex partners may also put you at risk


• Not having children may yet be another contributing risk factor


• Severe itching in the vulva


• Having Warts in the genital area


• A positive personal or family history of vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia


• Smoking


• Lichen sclerosis

Diagnosis of Vulvar Cancer
Listed below are some diagnostic methods that are commonly employed for vulvar cancer:

• Collecting medical history of the patient


• Conducting physical examination


• Use of colposcope to observe the vulva and the lesions present on it


• Use of scalpel to take biopsy of the sore lump present on the vulva


• Punch biopsy


• Removing a few tissues while the patient is given an anesthetic agent

Treatments of Vulvar Cancer
1. Surgery
The most popular and effective treatment for vulvar cancer is surgery. The nature of surgical procedure is dependent upon the position and size of cancer. Small cancers are much easier to remove. Healthcare providers utilize complex surgical approaches to remove large cancers such as vulvectomy, i.e. only some parts of the normal vulvar tissue are removed besides the cancerous part. A radical vulvectomy, however, involves removal of the entire vulva along with clitoris and labia. Skin flaps or skin grafts are mandatory if a lot of skin is removed during the surgery. Frequently, the surgery is performed with the aim of achieving optimum results with very little scarring. Discuss the surgical options with your doctor.

2. Radiation Therapy
It involves exposing the tumor mass to high energy beams (such as X-rays) to destroy the cancer cells. Radiation therapy is usually performed with the help of highly calculated devices/ machines that are designed to emit rays at the precise locations of the body (thereby securing the normal tissue from radiation-mediated harm). This therapy is also employed to shrink down the vulvar cancers that are large in size so that the surgery becomes effective and easier. A combination of radio therapy and chemotherapy is also used to make the cancer cells more prone to destruction.

3. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy comprises of drugs that are administered via oral or parenteral routes. However in case of women with advanced stages of vulvar cancer, chemotherapy may not turn out to be an effective treatment.

4. Follow-Ups
Once you're done with the treatment of vulvar cancer, your doctor may call you for follow-ups time to time to look out for any recurrence of cancer. Mostly the doctors prefer a follow-up of 2-4 times per year.

Living With Vulvar Cancer
1. Know Your Cancer
You must know everything about your cancer. Get a firm grasp on the symptoms, causes and treatment protocol required for your condition. Be well acknowledged so it wouldn’t be tough to ask around questions from your healthcare provider.

2. Find Someone to Talk With
Needless to say that a vulvar cancer patient requires a lot of guidance, love and support from people around.Do not hesitate to share your thoughts and feelings with people who you trust, it can be your family, spiritual advisors, therapist, friends or other cancer survivors. There are a number of non-government and government organizations that serve as platforms to connect cancer patients, survivors and volunteers such as the American Cancer Society's Cancer Survivors Network, the Women Cancer Network and American Cancer Society besides online forums.

3. Don’t Be Scared Of Physical Intimacy
Changes or illness involving a genital area may affect your confidence and desire to engage in sexual contact, but do not let your feelings affect your natural needs. If you need time or support, speak to your partner or a therapist to learn more about the coping. You should also remember that sexuality can be expressed in a number of mediums such as touching, caressing, hugging, etc.

Here is a video that you may find very helpful to learn about the vulvar cancer:

Stomach Cancer

Stomach Cancer Stomach Cancer is simply a cancer that attacks the stomach. The stomach is responsible for holding food after it is eaten. It also helps in breaking down and digestion of food.Cancer of the stomach is also referred to gastric cancer. This type of cancer begins from the cells that produce Mucus located on the inner lining of the patient’s stomach, which makes it one of the most common types of cancer.

Cancer of the stomach is not that common in the U.S.A.The statistics of people being diagnosed with it is always on the decline. However, this type of cancer is prevalent in other countries, mostly the ones in Asia.

Symptoms of Stomach Cancer


It is unlikely for people to know whether they are suffering from stomach cancer early enough, because this condition does not have any early symptoms, or they can be non-specific or vague. Nausea and Weight Loss are the very first signs, which can be easily overlooked or misdiagnosed. Also, there is really no specific symptom that can point directly to stomach cancer and thus further tests and evaluation is needed to diagnose the condition.

The symptoms of cancer can vary depending on the severity and type of stomach cancer. It is important to see a doctor as soon as one starts experiencing any symptoms related to stomach cancer.

1. Blood Present in Stool
This is one of the many symptoms of stomach cancer. Whenever you see blood on tissue after going for a long call, you should consider getting a checkup. However, it is worth noting that other conditions can also be characterized by Blood In Stool. Blood in stool may not be visible with the naked eye. Further tests on the stool need to be done to reveal the traces of blood and the cause. Blood in stool can occur as a result of other cancer types, most commonly Colon Cancer.

2. Abdominal Discomfort and Pain
This is the most commonly occurring symptom that actually compels people to seek medical attention. This pain can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. This pain and discomfort is mostly persistent on the upper abdomen. Any kind of persistent abdominal pain should be evaluated by a doctor immediately.

3. Persistent Vomiting and Nausea
While these are non-specific symptoms associated with numerous conditions, it can also be due to the development of stomach cancer. Therefore, any persistent vomiting and nausea should be assessed by a doctor as it can damage the lining of the esophagus.

4. Appetite Loss
It is perfectly normal to lose appetite every once in a while.However, staying for too long without the desire to eat is bad for your health. Even so, loss of appetite does not necessarily point to stomach cancer.

5. Bloating of the Abdomen
When one has stomach cancer, abdominal bloating is also a common symptom. The pains are mostly prevalent after meals. Bloating can also be accompanied by Heartburn and indigestion.

6. Bowel Movements Changes
The most common bowel movements changes associated with stomach cancer include Diarrhea and Constipation. However, this can also be a non-specific symptom of the disease since this symptom can also be caused by other health issues.

7. Fatigue
If you experience fatigue that is persistent, it is best to seek medical attention. When one is suffering from stomach cancer, fatigue can be a symptom as it is caused by anemia as a result of blood lost from vomiting and stool.

8. Excessive and Rapid Weight Loss
Weight loss without dieting may be welcomed by most people but is often linked to serious health issues.It is important to seek medical attention if you lose more or about 5% of normal weight in less than six months if you have not been dieting or exercising.

Causes and Risk Factors of Stomach Cancer
There is no known cause of stomach cancer. However, there are several factors that can increase the risk of suffering from the disease. These include:

• Gender – it is a known fact that men are twice as likely to suffer from stomach cancer as women.


• Race – Asians and African Americans are at a higher risk of stomach cancer.


• Genetics – abnormalities in the genetic makeup can also cause stomach cancer as the syndrome is inherited.


• Geographical location – people in South America, Central America, Japan and the former Soviet Union are more likely to suffer from stomach cancer than people in other parts of the world.


• Blood type – people with blood group A have a higher risk of suffering from stomach cancer than people with other blood groups.


• Age – people between the ages of 70 and above are more likely to develop cancer of the stomach than younger individuals.


• Lifestyle factors –like alcohol intake, smoking and eating foods low in fruits and vegetables can increase the risk of stomach cancer.


• H.pylori –is a bacterium that causes inflammation of the lining of the stomach as well as Ulcers may also lead to higher chance of developing stomach cancer.


• Some health conditions– chronic Gastritis, gastric polyps, pernicious anemia, prior stomach surgery as well as intestinal metaplasia can also lead to stomach cancer.


• Frequent exposure to chemicals – some professions such as coal mining, rubber and timber processing as well as nickel refining can also increase the chances of getting stomach cancer as they are frequently exposed to chemicals.

Diagnosis of Stomach Cancer
There are several tests that can be used to diagnose stomach cancer. They include:

• Gastroscopy– is done by passing a thin and flexible tube down the patient’s throat to see into the stomach, your bowel’s upper part and the esophagus.


• Barium x-ray– the patient is made to swallow barium liquid, which shows up on x-ray screens as it passes through the stomach as well as the digestive system. This easily reveals any abnormalities in the stomach.


• Biopsy –is done by the removal of a small sample of the stomach during an endoscopy, and is assessed under a microscope.


• Blood tests– include a carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) test. CEA is present in high amounts in some cancerous cells. It occurs in almost half of the number of people identified with cancer of the stomach.


• Ultrasound – sound waves are used to create a picture of your stomach.

Treatments of Stomach Cancer
The treatment option used to treat cancer of the stomach mostly depends on the cancer stage, general health and preference.

1. Surgery
Surgery is done to get rid of all cancers in the stomach and also margins of healthy tissues if possible. There are several options, which include:

• Removal of Tumors in the early stage is when small cancer tumors are removed from the lining of the stomach through endoscopy mucosal resection.


• Removal of a stomachportion is also referred to as subtotal gastrectomy where the surgeon eliminates the part of the stomach that is affected by the tumor.


• Removal of the full stomach involves getting rid of the full stomach and also some surrounding tissues. The esophagus is directly connected to the small intestines for digestion purposes.


• Removal of lymph nodes.Here, the lymph nodes on the abdomen are removed to be examined for the presence cancer cells.


• Surgery for relieving symptoms.It is possible for a portion of the stomach to be removed as a way of relieving symptoms of stomach cancer. This is done in a case where the tumor is growing, which is common in people suffering from advanced cancer of the stomach.

2. Radiation
It is possible for radiation therapy to be prescribed before surgery as a way of shrinking the tumor to make it easier to remove. Radiation is done using high power beams of energy like x-ray as a way of killing the cells.

3. Chemotherapy
This is a type of drug treatment that makes use of medical chemicals to destroy cancer cells. This is also a measure that can be administered before surgery as a way of shrinking the tumor and thus making it easier to remove.

4. Use of Targeted Drugs
The use of these drugs is done to attack abnormalities in cancer cells.These drugs include:

• Trastuzumab (Herceptin) is used to treat cancerous stomach cells that are found to be producing excess HER2.


• Imatinib (Gleevec) is used to treat an uncommon form of cancer of the stomach named gastrointestinal stromal tumor.


• Sunitinib (Sutent) is for treating gastrointestinal stromal tumor.

Doing tests on the cancer cells helps determine if these treatments will work for you.

Watch a video to learn something about the stomach cancer diet:

Appendix Cancer

Appendix Cancer Appendix cancer sounds scary, but it's actually very rare, happening to only about one thousand people each year in the United States. However, it can be very frightening, whether the Tumors that grow are benign or malignant. A significant problem with cancer of the appendix is called pseudomyxoma peritonei, which happens when a tumor emerges from the appendix and allows thick mucin to flow through the abdomen. This can lead to problems with the functioning of other organs.

What Is Appendix Cancer?
Appendiceal cancer is extremely rare. It is the formation of tumors on or inside the appendix. Fortunately, most tumors are benign and grow very slowly, causing no symptoms. These tumors need only monitoring on a regular basis. Cancerous tumors, however, are also common. There are four main types, but the most common is the carcinoid tumor, which makes up about 65% of all cases.

Symptoms of Appendix Cancer
In most cases, appendix cancer isn’t detected until someone develops Appendicitis. During the removal of the appendix, cancer is found. However, there are other symptoms that might show up if the cancer has spread and is causing problems in other parts of the body. If you are suffering from bloating of the abdomen, vague abdominal discomfort, pelvis discomfort, bowel obstruction, hernias that suddenly appear, masses on the ovaries, or chronic abdominal pain that doesn’t go away, it’s time to get checked out.

Sometimes appendix cancer also affects the liver. This can quickly lead to Carcinoid Syndrome, which is characterized by shortness of breath, possibly wheezing, flushing of the skin (as though you are having a hot flash), Diarrhea, a feeling of pain or fullness in your abdomen, and heart valve disease on the right side of the heart. These are all very serious signs that indicate appendix cancer might have progressed to a more dangerous stage.

Diagnosis of Appendix Cancer
Any cancer diagnosis is very frightening. It is important to remember that most appendix tumors are benign and will not cause long-term problems. However, any sign of a tumor calls for a proper diagnosis.

• Your doctor will begin with blood work and a biopsy, where tissue is examined underneath a microscope.


• A CT scan or MRI might be conducted to look at the larger area around the appendix and try to spot any unusual areas.


• An ultrasound can use sound waves to visualize the area, giving further detail.


• Finally, a radionucleotide scan is conducted. During this scan, a radioactive material is injected into your body, and then traced with a special camera. This allows the doctor to see things that might not be visible with other imaging techniques.

Upon a firm diagnosis, the doctor will then determine how extensive the cancer is, and check to make sure it has not migrated to other organs in the body.

Treatments for Appendix Cancer
The treatment for appendix cancer depends on a wide variety of factors, including how serious the cancer is, how much it has progressed, the overall health of the person, and any adverse treatment effects. Here are the most common options for appendix cancer treatment:

Surgery
Surgery is almost always required for appendix cancer, and is in fact the most common treatment. There are numerous types of surgery that can be performed, depending upon the progression and other factors:

• Appendectomy: By far the most common surgery, this is the complete removal of the appendix.


• Hemicolectomy: For larger tumors, the appendix is removed, as well as blood vessels and lymph nodes that surround it.


• Debulking surgery: This is designed for later-stage cancers, and is performed by removing as much of the cancer as possible.


• Peritoneum removal: This controversial surgery removes the lining of the abdomen, and can be very complex, with serious side effects.

Chemotherapy
This procedure uses powerful drugs to stop cancer cells from growing and eliminate those that are already there. Chemotherapy can take many forms, including:

• Local chemotherapy includes medication delivered right to the site of the tumors, and is the most common therapy for appendix cancer.


• Systemic chemotherapy is delivered through the bloodstream, and is best for cancer that has advanced beyond the appendix.

Chemotherapy almost always has side effects that might be serious. These include higher risk of infections, increased fatigue, nausea and vomiting, hair loss, diarrhea, and lack of appetite.

Radiation Therapy
This is the use of high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. It is a very targeted treatment that is rarely used in appendix cancer, though some patients might opt for it, depending upon their condition. If it is used, the common treatment is called P32, which calls for radioactive liquid to be inserted into the abdomen, right where the cancerous tumors are. This creates a very strong, targeted treatment in that particular area.

Bone Cancer Symptoms

Bone Cancer Symptoms Bone Cancer refers to the type of cancer which affects and originates in the bone. It is not very common and can affect any bone in the body. The more commonly affected bones are the long limb bones. There are various types of bone cancers, some affecting adults, and some primarily affecting kids. Cancer which has originated elsewhere and spread to the bone is not termed as bone cancer, but named for where it began, such as Breast cancer metastasized to the bone.

Bone Cancer Symptoms
With the progress of bone cancer, several symptoms as represented by the most obvious pain would occur. These symptoms may also be the result of such conditions as Arthritis, Osteoporosis or injury. If necessary, consult your healthcare provider for more accurate diagnosis of these symptoms so as to get the proper treatment.

Some of the symptoms of Bone Cancer are:

• Bone Pain: The most common symptom of bone cancer is bone pain. It may be present only during night or when active, initially, but grows as the cancer spreads or Tumor grows. The pain can be a dull or deep ache in the bone or the entire area like back, pelvis, legs etc. The pain starts becoming persistent as cancer spreads.


• Fractures: The cancer can cause the bones to become weak and fragile. This can lead to fractures in the area where bone pain or swelling is experienced.


• Decrease in mobility: Due to prolonged pain or pain near joints, there can be difficulty in moving around or doing day to day activities.


• Swelling: The location where bone pain exists might show swelling or presence of a lump or mass.


• Other: There might be Weight Loss and fatigue along with bone pain. If the cancer has spread to other organs, there can be difficulty in breathing as well.

Bone Cancer Diagnosis


Depending on the symptoms that are shown, the doctor might ask you to run the following tests at the hospital for diagnosis of bone cancer:

• Bone X-Rays: Taking an X-Ray involves exposing the body part to a small amount of radiation against a film which takes pictures of the bone. It helps the doctor in diagnosing and treating any medical condition.


• Bone Scan: In this procedure a mild radioactive substance is injected in the body through a vein. A scan is then taken for the bones. Any abnormal part of the bone absorbs more radioactive substance and thus shows up more clearly on the scan.


• MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging is where magnetic energy builds pictures of the body tissues. It can be done for any part of the body and sometimes an injection is given prior to the scan to highlight certain parts of the body.


• Bone Biopsy: For a biopsy, a small part of the bone is taken and checked for cancerous cells using microscope. With the help of local anesthesia or sedation, a needle is pierced into the bone to collect the part.

Bone Cancer Treatment
The treatment for bone cancer will depend on the type of cancer, the stage and the overall health status of the patient. The 3 options are Surgery, Radiation and Chemotherapy.

1. Surgery
The aim of surgery is to remove the cancerous part from the bone along with some healthy tissues surrounding it. When the bone cancer has spread, there may be requirement to remove the entire limb (amputation). However, with advancement of technology, this is being avoided. The cancerous tissue is removed as far as possible without removing the limb. Bone parts are replaced with bone from other part of the body or artificial prosthetics. Some area surrounding the bone may also be removed, preserving the bone as much as possible. This is applicable to bones of the limbs or other parts of the body like the ribs or the spine.

2. Radiation
Radiation therapy involves using high energy rays like X-rays to kill cancer cells. While the patient lies supine, a machine sends precise energy beams to targeted body parts. Radiation is usually used along with chemotherapy, before surgery to reduce risk of amputation and after surgery to kill any cancerous cells that are left behind. It is usually helpful for people who cannot opt of surgery.

3. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves injecting drugs intravenously to kill the cancerous cells. The medication travels throughout the body and is usually administered along with radiation therapy. It is administered prior to surgery to reduce the size of the tumor and make it more manageable to remove. It is also used in bone cancer when it has metastasized to other tissues.

Watch the video about the bone cancer survivor which might help you to be more optimistic:

Can Bone Cancer Be Cured?

Can Bone Cancer Be Cured?
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Getting a diagnosis of bone cancer can be very frightening. You may ask your doctorif itcan be cured. Before you get yourself too upset, it is important to make sure you understand bone cancer, the types, and how it is treated.

Bone cancer occurs in the inner tissue of the bone. Malignant bone cancer is actually pretty rare. Most of the bone Tumors that are found are actually benign. When bone tumors are found to be cancerous, the earlier treatment is started the better. This article explains more about bone cancer treatments and cure rates.

Can Bone Cancer Be Cured?
Many people are cured by the time they reach the 5-year survival rate point. The five-year survival rate for people who get early treatment for bone cancer is about 70% for any type of bone cancer. For Chondrosarcoma, the 5-year survival rate is about 80%. For Ewing Sarcoma, the survival rate at 5-years is 60 to 78%. The 5-year survival rate for osteosarcoma is 30 to 40%. Can bone cancer be cured? If treatment is started early, it is possible.

Treatment Options to Help
If you only have a "low-grade" tumor, you will most likely have surgery. If you have a "high-grade" tumor, you may need surgery followed by chemotherapy, then radiation. Explanation of each type of treatment is as follows:

1.Surgery
Surgery is usually the first-line of treatment for bone cancer. They will remove any cancerous tissue and healthy tissue around the area. When you have a tumor in an extremity (leg, arm) doctors will try their best to remove just the tumor. If the cancer is “high-grade” they may have to perform an amputation to prevent the cancer from spreading.

• The cure rate for bone cancer with surgical treatment is around 80 to 90% if the entire tumor can be removed. High-grade tumors that have spread beyond the bone are no longer curable with surgery alone.


• The side-effects of surgical treatment for bone cancer are infection, pain, bleeding, appetite, and fatigue.

2.Chemotherapy
If your cancer cannot be completely removed from your bone, the doctor may decide to do chemotherapy. This will stop the spread of the cancer. They will give chemotherapy through an IV line straight into your blood. Osteosarcoma is usually found after it has already spread and often needs chemotherapy. You may also be given chemotherapy before surgery for bone cancer if the doctor thinks it has a high risk of spreading quickly.

• Using chemotherapy for fast growing or "high-grade" bone cancers raises the cure rate about 10% over those who do not have chemotherapy.


• Side-effects of chemotherapy include nausea, appetite loss, increased risk of infection, fatigue, hair loss, and Diarrhea.

3.Radiation
Radiation is the use of very powerful x-ray beams to eradicate cancer cells from the body. They use a machine to send a beam of radiation at the area with the cancer. Radiation is normally used when bone cancer cannot be removed surgically or used pre-op to shrink a tumor. If a bone tumor can be shrunk, surgery may be more minor and help avoid amputation of a limb.

• The cure rate for bone cancer using radiation therapy before and after surgery averages about 75%.


• Side-effects of radiation for bone cancer include fatigue, skin rash, nausea, and diarrhea.

If caught and treated early, most cases of bone cancer have a very high 5-year survival rate. Some cases that are advanced when found may not respond to treatment as well. There are still things that can be done to keep you comfortable and slow the progression.

Incurable Bone Cancer
Can bone cancer be cured? Most of the time. Sometimes, the cancer may have been present for too long and spread to other organs. Even after aggressive treatment, a cure isn't always possible.

If this happens, it is important to discuss options with your doctor to make sure you are comfortable. There are special health care providers that can help you and your family deal with an advanced or terminal cancer diagnosis. You will most likely need treatment for pain, specialized nutrition, and planning for end-of-life decisions and care. The most important thing is your comfort.

When your prognosis shows that you will live 6 months or less, talk to your doctor about going on hospice. This is a specialized type of care where you can stay in your own home. Visiting nurses will report to a hospice doctor about how you are feeling. They can order pain medications to keep you comfortable. They can also help with activities of daily living, personal care, and emotional support. Hospice can also teach your family about what to expect and provide them with emotional support.

Some treatments that can help keep you comfortable and slow progression include:

1. Radiation
Radiation for advanced bone cancer can help slow the progression in later stages. It can also help reduce bone pain when pain medications are not as effective. Radiation may be helpful for these things:

• Bone pain


• Nerve compression from tumors


• Spinal compression


• Bleeding


• Tumors blocking airways or esophagus

Radiation used for Palliative treatment can either be given externally on the outside of your body or internally by placing the radiation inside the body close to the tumor. They can also give radioactive medication that you take internally via bloodstream.

Side-effects of palliative radiation include feeling weak, fatigue, bladder pain, diarrhea, nausea, and skin rash. This type of radiation can also cause mild fevers and dry mouth.

2. Pain Medications
Narcotic medications can be used for pain relief. They can use pain patches and pills. If you become too weak to swallow, some narcotic pain medications come in drops that can be placed under the tongue.

3. Anti-Anxiety Medications
Terminal cancer can cause anxiety. This can be both a physical symptom of the body shutting down and an emotional symptom over the fear of dying. Anti-anxiety medications can help calm you when you're feeling fearful.

4. Relaxation Techniques
Palliative care includes relaxation techniques to help you overcome emotional feelings and physical symptoms. Hospice nurses can teach you breathing techniques or meditation exercises to help keep you calm.

5. Emotional and Spiritual Care
Can bone cancer be cured? Not if your cancer is too advanced. However, emotional and spiritual care from hospice nurses can help you understand terminal cancer and the stages you will go through.

What to Know about Brain Cancer at Stage 4

What to Know about Brain Cancer at Stage 4 Cancer is known as the most deadly disease. There are 5 stages of cancer all together and stage 4 is the last phase of cancer. What are the characteristics of stage four Brain Cancer? How can it be diagnosed and treated? How long is someone in stage 4 supposed to live?

What is stage 4 brain cancer?
1. Characteristics
As mentioned above, every cancer stage has its own characteristics that are different from those in other stages. These are the characteristics of this stage:

• Brain cells outgrow blood supply in stage 4


• These cells grow rapidly


• Brain Tumors in stage 4 also spread to other tissues


• New blood vessels also tend to grow during this cancer stage

2. Symptoms
The symptoms at this level are stated according to their location in the body. Stage 4 brain cancer symptoms are:

• Hearing problems


• Lethargy


• Lack of coordination


• Memory loss


• Hallucinations


• Vision problems


• Weakness and Numbness in Legs and arms


• Seizures


• Nausea


• Vomiting


• Behavior change


• Changes in weight


• Frequent and unusual Headaches


• Dizziness

3. Types
Although most brain cancers fall under stage 4 cancer, it is important to classify them as they ought to be. More on the types of cancer is that they are classified depending on the origin of the tumor. According to (WHO) World Health Organization, there are 9 types of brain cancer but will only discuss a few here. Some of these cancers are:

• Ependymoblastoma
  This is a type of cancer in young children and infants. It usually appears in that part of the brain that contains cerebrospinal fluid.
  
  


• Glioblastoma
  This is the second type of brain cancer. This cancer originates from the cerebral hemisphere and takes about 12% of all the brain cancers. This cancer originates from astrocytes. Astrocytes are types of brain cells.
  
  


• Medulloblastomas
  This is another type of brain cancer found in children. It originates in the Cerebellum">Cerebellum before spreading to other parts of the body.
  
  


• Pineoblastomas
  This type of cancer occurs in the pineal gland. This refers to the pine shaped gland in the vertebrae part of the brain.
  
  

4. Prognosis and life expectancy
In order to determine the chances for survival of a cancer patient, it is important to understand the type of cancer they have. This is because there are different factors that determine life expectancy. Some of the factors that determine survival rate as follows:

• Nature of the cancer


• Treatment received


• Cancer stage at which the disease was diagnosed


• Age of patient


• Type of cancer


• Physical and mental factors

Depending on the stage of the tumor, life expectancy is anywhere from a few months to five years.

• The average life expectancy for patients over 60 is about 1 - 2 years.


• An adult (below 40) is likely to live with the cancer for more than 5 years.


• The 5 year survival rate for stage 4 cancer in infants is lower than 30%.


• Patients with glioblastoma are known to live for less than a year. This is the average time they are known to survive.


• 88% of Pineoblastoma patients live for a year while those suffering from ependymoblastoma are known to die after the first 6 and 12 months of diagnosis.


• Those with medulloblastoma have an average of 5 year. It is only between 50 and 70% that survive here. This is according to the National Cancer Institute.

5. Treatments
Stage 4 brain cancer spreads at a very high rate, treatment begins immediately after diagnosis. Surgery, radiation and chemotherapy are examples of cancer treatments at stage 4. It is only after a scan is done that the doctor progresses with the treatment. A biopsy is also helpful in analyzing tumors.

• Surgery
  This is where doctors try to remove all the tumors in the brain. They open the skull and remove all the visible tumors without damaging any tissues in the brain.
  
  


• Radiation and chemotherapy
  Patients receive chemotherapy after either 2 or 3 weeks of surgery. During chemotherapy, more than one type of drug is used to destroy the cancer cells. This is not the case in radiation. This is because radiation uses ions and not drugs. It is these ions that target the tumor for destruction.
  
  

What are the stages of brain cancer?
A brain tumor is the uncontrolled growth of damaged cells in the brain. This growth also spreads to the spinal column causing more harm to the body. Below is a table detailing the stages, besides stage 4 brain cancer:

Stage zero	This is the stage where the cancer has only developed in layers on a particular cell. It is the early stages of brain cancer.
Stage one	Although the cells are already infected, they appear normal. This is because it is hard to see the cancer cells at this stage. The good thing about the cancer in this stage is that it can be cured. Surgery is the most preferred method of treating stage 1 cancer.
Stage two	Although the cancer cells are growing at a very high rate in this stage, the cancer is still curable or could be treated. Apparently, chances are that cancer is bound to return even after treatment. This is because it has already spread to most tissues in the body and thus hard to clear.
Stage three	In this stage, the already damaged cells are growing rapidly. Besides spreading in the brain, these cells begin to spread to other tissues in the body
Stage four (metastasis)	This is the scariest cancer stage. This is because the disease has already spread to almost all parts of the body and chances of curing it are low. In other words, it is hard to treat stage 4 cancer.

Pneumonia and Lung Cancer

Pneumonia and Lung Cancer Pneumonia is an illness caused by a bacterial or viral infection in the lungs, or fluid buildup caused by a structural problem. Lung cancer is caused by an overgrowth of abnormal cells that turn into lung Tumors. Over 160,000 people die from lung cancer each year. If you are concerned that pneumonia causes lung cancer, this article will help to explain how the two may be related.



Can Pneumonia Develop into Lung Cancer?
Yes, pneumonia can lead to lung cancer. Repeated episodes of pneumonia can cause scarring and inflammation in the lungs. Scar tissue can cause abnormal cell growth during the healing phase that can form tumors that become cancerous.
Risks of recurrent pneumonia are increased by history of Asthma, smoking, breathing in toxic substances on a daily basis, and other lung diseases. Lack of treatment with steroids and bronchodilators can lead to inflammation and permanent lung damage. Pneumonia and lung cancer are strongest in those with a family history of both.
How to Prevent Pneumonia from Worsening toLung Cancer
Since it is a possibility for pneumonia to turn into lung cancer, it is important to take preventative measures to reduce the risk of this happening. Things you can do include:
1. Don't Smoke


Not only is smoking the number one cause of lung cancer, smoking can increase the risk of pneumonia. If you do not smoke, you should try to avoid second hand smoke if at all possible. Do not allow smoking in your home or car to protect your lungs and the lungs of others.
2. Avoid Carcinogens
Try to avoid breathing in fumes from cleaners, paint and solvents. These things can cause inflammation of the lung tissue that can lead to Bronchitis and pneumonia. Try not to eat any foods containing processed chemicals such as preservatives and have your home checked for radon gas and asbestos.
3. Eat Healthy


Try to eat a diet high in antioxidants to help heal lung tissue after pneumonia and prevent cancer cells from forming. Eat a variety fresh food colors like beets, strawberries, green peppers, blueberries, and carrots. Reduce the amount of red meat in your diet, and drink lots of fluids.
4. Treat Lung Infections Promptly
If you do get a respiratory infection, get to the doctor and treated as soon as you develop a cough. Along with treatment, the doctor may give you steroids to reduce inflammation in the lungs. This reduces the risk of scar tissue developing.
Will Lung Cancer Cause Pneumonia?
It can, yes. If you have lung cancer you do run a higher risk of developing pneumonia. Pneumonia is caused by bacterial and viral infections, but if you have lung cancer it can also be caused by obstruction of the lung due to a tumor. It can be very serious and needs to be treated immediately.
Symptoms of Pneumonia and Lung Cancer
When you have lung cancer and come down with pneumonia, the symptoms really aren't any different. One important thing to note, if you do get pneumonia with lung cancer the symptoms may be hard to differentiate and it may be hard to diagnose the pneumonia. The symptoms are very similar. Symptoms of pneumonia include:

• Cough, sometimes severe


• Mucus (rust colored or blood tinged)


• Shortness of breath


• Chills


• Fever


• Fatigue


• Chest pain


• Feeling sweaty


• Confusion


• Nausea and/or vomiting


• Appetite loss

Treatments to Manage Pneumonia and Lung Cancer
The treatment for pneumonia that occurs when you have lung cancer is much like anyone who has pneumonia without lung cancer. The focus will be to treat the pneumonia, relieve symptoms, and increase comfort. Measures will also be taken to make sure oxygen levels remain stable.
Medical Treatments

• Bacterial Pneumonia

In many cases, patients will be admitted to the hospital for intravenous antibiotic therapy, fluids, and oxygen if needed. They may also need to do breathing treatments to keep the airways open. You may be able to stay home and receive antibiotic therapy at home.
The common antibiotics used for pneumonia are azithromycin, erythromycin, ciprofloxacin, or levofloxacin.

• Viral Pneumonia

If you have viral pneumonia, treatment is only supportive since antibiotics won't work. You will most likely be given intravenous fluids, breathing treatments, steroids for inflammation, and oxygen if needed. If you only have a mild case of pneumonia and your cancer is not at an advanced stage, you may be allowed to stay home on bedrest.
Home Care for Pneumonia and Lung Cancer
If you are allowed to stay in your home, the doctor will most likely have you do the following:

• Turn, Cough, Deep Breathe Every 2 Hours

Pneumonia can be complicated by lung cancer and fluids can build up in the lungs and impair breathing. Not moving the fluids in the lungs may make pneumonia worse or even serious. If you are at home, remember to change your body position, cough, and deep breathe every two hours.

• Humidify the Air

If your chest feels tight, turn on a humidifier in your room. This will help to loosen secretions so you can cough them up easier.

• Keep Your Head Elevated

Keep your head elevated at night when you sleep and when you are lying in bed. This will help you breathe better and reduce coughing episodes.

• Drink Plenty of Fluids

Pneumonia can cause fluid losses due to coughing. Lack of fluids can also cause the lung secretions to become tight and make coughing worse. It is very important to increase your fluid intake when you have pneumonia.

• Take All Prescribed Medications

If you have bacterial pneumonia, it is very important to take all of your antibiotics as directed by your doctor. Missing a dose or not finishing them can cause the pneumonia to come back, sometimes even worse. If you have breathing treatments, take them on time to prevent coughing spells and breathing issues.

• Keep in Touch with Your Doctors

When you have pneumonia along with lung cancer, you will want to keep in touch with both your primary care doctor and your oncologist to manage your care. Your oncologist will let you know if you are to stop or continue any cancer treatments during your illness. Make sure you let your care team know any new medications you have been prescribed.

Prostate Cancer Test

Prostate Cancer Test Prostate Cancer is a common disease that is potentially life-threatening. However, cure rates are high when it is diagnosed and treated early. Health experts, therefore, advise men older than 50 or younger, if they have a family history of the disease, to take a prostate cancer test as part of their yearly medical check-up. They must also talk to their doctors about the benefits and risks of prostate cancer testing and treatment.

Why and When Should Men Have Prostate Cancer Test?
A prostate cancer test may be done for the following reasons:

• In men older than 50 years old, as part of their annual medical check-up


• Having a close relative with a history of prostate cancer


• Presence of urinary symptoms

Some men do not experience any symptoms during the early stages of prostate cancer. In advanced stages, one may experience the following:

• Trouble urinating


• Reduced force in urination


• Urine has blood


• Semen has blood


• Lower back pain, hip or thigh pain


• Pelvic area discomfort


• Bone pain


• Sexual dysfunction

Prostate Cancer Test
Prostate cancer can be cured when diagnosed and treated early. Currently, the best tests to detect prostate cancer include Digital Rectal Examination (DRE), blood test for Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) and prostate biopsy.

1. PSA or Prostate Specific Antigen
The blood test for PSA detects a protein that prostate cells produce. Elevated levels of PSA are not necessarily an indication of prostate cancer. However, if prostate cancer exists, PSA levels can predict the extent or stage of the disease. An experienced doctor must evaluate the results of the test and recommend if further testing needs to be done. If your PSA level is just slightly elevated, repeat tests may be done to detect rates of change, which may suggest the need for a prostate biopsy.

2. Digital Rectal Examination
During a DRE, the doctor inserts a gloved finger into the anus to feel the surface of your prostate. If he detects any irregularities such as a hardening, a lump or swelling of the prostate, it may suggest the growth of a Tumor or other prostate problems. However, the doctor can only feel a part of the prostate and may miss some irregularities beyond his reach. Studies show that very few men find the procedure embarrassing or painful.

3. Biopsy
This procedure involves taking a tiny tissue sample from the prostate using a needle. An urologist inserts a small probe with an ultrasound generator into the anus, which generates images of the prostate gland on a computer screen and guides him during needle insertion and tissue sampling. The procedure may be done with an anesthetic for pain and preoperative or postoperative antibiotics. The sample is taken to a laboratory for microscopic examination.

4. Urodynamic Tests
Urodynamic testing determines the adequacy of function of the urinary bladder, the sphincters, and the urethra in holding and releasing urine. These tests measure your ability to hold urine in the bladder and whether you can empty it steadily and completely. An enlarged prostate may cause urine blockage and the doctor may recommend testing for urine flow rate and bladder pressure. Urodynamic tests may be performed in a doctor's office without anesthesia, in an outpatient center or in a hospital using local anesthesia.

5. Cystoscopy
This procedure allows the physician to view the lower urinary tract with a tube-like instrument called a cystoscope, which is inserted into the penis. This test is performed by an urologist, a specialist on the urogenital tract, to determine what is causing urine blockage. It may be performed in a doctor's office, an outpatient center or a hospital under local anesthesia.

6. MRI and CT Scan
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) involves taking pictures of the tissues and internal organs without the use of x-rays. MRI Machines use magnets and radio waves to produce detailed images. A CT scan combines x-ray and computer technology to create 3D images. Just like the MRI, it may also involve injecting of a dye to provide contrast to the images. Both methods can help identify tumors and other abnormalities in the urinary tract, but may not be able to distinguish between cancerous and noncancerous prostate enlargements. These tests are usually performed in an outpatient facility or a hospital with specially trained technicians and radiologists.

7. Ultrasound
A transrectal ultrasound may be used to further evaluate the prostate. A small cigar-shaped probe is inserted into the rectum and sends sound waves to create images of the prostate gland.

8. Isotope Bone Scan
This test involves the injection of a small amount of dye into a vein to help detect if cancer cells have spread to the bones. The radioactive dye collects in bones where cancer cells are present.

Treatments for Prostate Cancer
If prostate cancer tests show positive results, your doctor will recommend treatment options, which may include surgery, radiation, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy (rarely done). Early stages of prostate cancer may be cured with radiation alone or surgery. In some cases, your doctor may recommend no treatment (just observation). The decision on your choice of treatment may be a complex matter and seeking a second opinion is reasonable.

Hair Dye : To Use or Not To Use? Hair Dye Cancer Risk

Hair Dye : To Use or Not To Use? Hair Dye Cancer Risk

Hair dye has become indispensible in the life of many people around the world. Hair dye is obviously made of many chemicals that enter your body through skin. Harmful chemicals present in the dye can cause serious effects like cancer. At the same time, using hair dye appropriately can increase your image and self esteem in the society. We will discuss in this article whether using hair dye is a healthy choice or not. Each hair dye has its own chemical composition. Such chemicals enter your body through skin contact.

Three types of hair dyes exist based on the chemical reaction they produce on your body.

• Temporary hair dyes are one that cannot penetrate your skin but can cover the superficial surface.


• Semi permanent dyes are those that can enter into the hair shaft but its effect can lasts only up to 10 washings.


• Permanent dyes are those that are commonly used by millions of people. This type of dye can cause permanent changes in the hair shaft since they can penetrate into the hair shaft easily. These dyes are also called as coal tar dyes and they undergo a series of chemical reaction to produce the required coloration on the hair. Dark colored dyes contains adequate coloring agents that can cause cancer.

Who Are At Risk ?

People who use hair dye regularly and people whose job involves handling hair-dyes frequently like stylists, hairdressers etc are at increased risk of cancer.

Are Hair Dyes Carcinogenic ?

Till now there is no concrete evidence that hair dyes can cause cancer. Substances that produce cancer causing cells in the body are called as carcinogenic. Several research works are done on changes produced by hair dye. No study has so far proved conclusively that hair dye can cause cancer.



Chemicals Present In The Hair Dye :

It is the melanin pigment present in your body that gives particular skin color and hair color. Melanin is of 2 types namely eumelanin and pheomelanin. A person with brown or black sin would have eumelanin pigment largely and those with pheomelanin pigment would have color ranging from blond to red. Hence these two pigments are responsible for your hair color and skin color by birth. Different combinations of these 2 basic pigments can give you different shades of color.

Permanent hair dye contains PPD (Para Phenylene Diamine) which turns into brown when oxidized (when mixed with oxygen molecules). Majority of branded hair dye contains PPD which has not been banned so far in many countries. There are some states that have imposed the level of PPD but have not restricted its usage. Until a better alternative has been discovered, it is the PPD that rules the hair dye industry. Another chemical included in the hair dye is hydrogen peroxide which serves as an oxidizing agent of PPD. Hydrogen peroxide acts as a catalyst favoring oxidization of PPD to produce strong dye color.

In addition to the above, coupling agents are included in the hair dye which act as couplers allowing the chemical reaction for achieving the desired dye color. These coupling agents are added in varying concentration in each dye for getting the right shade of hair. Ammonia is used as the medium on which the above reaction takes place since it requires an alkaline pH. Ammonia triggers the hair cuticles to develop inflammation so that it can absorb the hair dye easily. Some companies use substitute like ethanol in the place of ammonia. There are some compounds that are called as “sensitizers” which means one should not get repeatedly exposed to such molecules. Allergy can occur if one uses these sensitizers regularly. And that is the reason some hair-dye companies recommend allergy test before applying it.

A Word Of Caution :

To prevent any complication, you need to use gloves for your hands while applying hair dye. Hair-dressers and stylists and saloon workers need to use proper gloves since they are repeatedly exposed to these chemicals and sensitizers.



Cancer and Hair Dye :

Several research works were conducted to find the link between hair dye exposure and bladder cancer. It is found that people who are exposed to handling of hair dyes on daily basis (like in saloons and stylists) are at increased risk of developing bladder cancer. But the same study does not support cancer formation in people who use it occasionally. Blood related cancers like Leukemia and Lymphoma are not related to the usage of hair dye. There are some studies that state that individuals who are handling hair dyes on day-to-day basis are at risk of non Hodgkin lymphoma.

From the above, it is evident that it is wise to use gloves during the application of hair dye and people who run saloons and hair-dressing system should go for regular screening at least once in a year to prevent any complication. According to the expert agencies like IARC which belongs to WHO, exposure to harsh chemicals like hair dye at workplace can probably increase the risk of bladder cancer. However, the National Toxicology Program has not categorized hair dye exposure to any form of cancer but some chemicals present in hair dye are anticipated to be cancer-causing. Food and Drug Admin (FDA) of the United States is responsible for regulation of cosmetics and it approves particular brand of hair dye before it comes to market but that does not mean that FDA is checking each of its components.

FDA Has Given Some Guidelines While Using Hair Dye Which Is Given Below :-

• Follow the instructions given in the leaflet.


• To prevent any allergic reaction, you can always do a patch test.


• Always wear protective gloves while using hair dye.


• Do not leave the hair dye in your head for long time.


• Rinse your hair thoroughly.


• Don’t mix different types of hair dye.


• Don’t use hair dye on your eyelashes or eyebrows which is dangerous.

Overall, it is uncertain whether hair-dye is related to risk of cancer.

Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer

Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer

Chemotherapy refers to the treatment of cancer with drugs that kill the cancer cells. Such drugs are given either intravenously or orally from where the drug enters into the blood stream and travels to reach the targeted cancer cells in the body. It is administered in cycles, with a recovery period following each treatment period. Chemotherapy is usually given for several months. It can be used before and after surgery, however, there are also many side effects of chemotherapy for Breast Cancer.

When Is Chemotherapy Used?
Chemotherapy is recommended in the following situations:

1. After Surgery
Chemotherapy is usually given as adjuvant therapy after surgery to kill the undetected cancer cells that may have travelled from the primary breast Tumor to other parts of the body. This helps in reducing the risk of recurrence of breast cancer.

2. Before Surgery
Chemotherapy is also given before surgical treatment when it is referred to as neoadjuvant therapy. The benefit of giving chemo before surgery is to shrink large tumors so as to make them small enough to be removed by surgery. There is no major difference in terms of survival rates between providing chemo before and after surgery. Giving chemo before surgery also makes the physician aware of the response of the cancer to the drugs.

3. For Advanced Breast Cancer
Chemotherapy is also the treatment of choice in cases of advanced breast cancer, which has spread outside the breast and to the underarm area. This is done either during the initial diagnosis of cancer or for a recurrent cancer.

How is Chemotherapy Given?

• Intravenously (IV). Chemo is given through the intravenous route by inserting a thin needle into a vein of your hand or lower arm.
• Injection. Chemo can also be given as an intramuscular injection or shot into your arm, leg or hip.
• Orally. It can be ingested orally as a capsule or a pill.
• Through a port. Chemo can be given through a port that is surgically inserted in the area of your chest.
• Through a catheter. Chemo can be administered through a catheter that is inserted into a large vein of your body by performing a short, outpatient surgery.

What Are the Side Effects of Chemotherapy?
The various side effects of chemotherapy are as follows:

1. Common Side Effects
Common possible side effects include:

• Hair loss
• Low blood cell counts
• Mouth Sores
• Increased appetite or loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting

2. Menstrual Changes
A common side effect of chemo in younger females is menstrual changes in the form of premature menopause and Infertility.

3. Neuropathy
Nerves can be damaged by chemotherapy leading to symptoms of numbness, pain, tingling and burning sensation, weakness and sensitivity to heat and cold.

4. Heart Damage
Some chemo drugs when used for a long period of time can damage heart permanently leading to cardiomyopathy.

5. Fatigue and Discomfort
Chemotherapy is often associated with symptoms of generalized fatigue and discomfort, which can continue for many years. There may be mild loss of physical functioning as well with feeling of body pain and achiness.

6. Increased Risk of Leukemia
A very rare side effect of chemo is that they may damage the bone marrow permanently, increasing the risk of leukemia in patient undergoing chemo.

7. Other Side Effects

• The decreased blood count leads to increasing the risk of infections, easy bruising and bleeding, and fatigue.
• Some of the drugs may cause irritation of palms and soles leading to symptoms of tingling, numbness and redness. This is known as hand-foot syndrome.
• You may develop a side effect known as chemo brain which is characterized by slightly reduced mental functioning.

Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

Risk factors for Breast Cancer increase one’s likelihood of developing the disease. However, having one or more risk factor does not necessarily mean that one will acquire breast cancer. On the other hand, some women who do not seem to have any risk factor could still develop the disease.

Some risk factors cannot be modified, such as age or racial background. However, factors associated with a person’s behavior or lifestyle may be modified. Make some changes to these modifiable factors to reduce your likelihood of getting breast cancer.

Risk Factors for Breast Cancer
1. Being Female
Breast cancer can affect males, but it is more common among women.

2. Age
Older women are more likely to develop breast cancer, but the disease can strike at any age. In general, one’s risk for the disease increases greatly after the age 50.

3. Reproductive History
Your risk for breast cancer may vary with different stages:

• Early first period. Having your period at an early age increases your risk for breast cancer.
• Late first birth. Bearing children at an early age reduces one’s risk for breast cancer. The relative risk of developing breast cancer is estimated to increase by 3% for each year of delay
• Not breastfeeding. Breastfeeding has a protective effect on breast cancer. Studies show that women who breastfeed for longer periods have a lower likelihood for developing the disease.
• Menopause at older age. Women who experience late menopause are more likely to develop breast cancer.

4. Endogenous Hormones
Women who have higher levels of body hormones may be at increased risk for breast cancer. These hormones include estrogen, testosterone, insulin, prolactin, and insulin-like growth factor.

5. Oral Contraceptives
Women who use oral contraceptives, as well as those who have stopped using them, have a higher risk of breast cancer than women who have never used oral contraception.

6. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
The risk for breast cancer increases with current use of hormone replacement therapy compared to non-use. The risk is even greater for women who use a combination of estrogen and progestogen compared to those who use estrogen only.

7. Breast Density
Having dense breasts increases a woman’s risk for the disease. This factor is affected by one’s weight, menopause status, number of children, and genetics.

8. Breast Disease History
A history of non-malignant (not cancerous) breast disease increases a woman’s risk for cancer. Having a strong family history of breast cancer further increases one’s likelihood for developing breast cancer in the presence of benign lesions. Women who have a non-invasive type of breast cancer or a previous history of breast cancer also have a greater likelihood for developing an invasive type of cancer than women who do not have these lesions.

9. Family History
Having a mother or a sister who has breast cancer doubles your risk of developing breast cancer. The risk further increases with more relatives having the disease. A very high risk for cancer of the breast occurs in women who have a strong family history and who test positive for mutations in their breast cancer genes (BRCA1 and BRCA2).

10. Bodyweight
Postmenopausal women who are overweight or obese have a higher chance of getting breast cancer than those who are lean. The association between body mass index (or BMI, a measure of body fat) and breast cancer may be due to hormonal influence. Estrogen is secreted by fatty tissues in postmenopausal women. Obese pre-menopausal woman have a lower risk for the disease and this may be due to their anovulatory cycles.

11. Alcohol Consumption
Studies show a causal link between alcohol consumption and breast cancer. It has been suggested that alcohol consumers may have higher levels of sex hormones linked to the disease compared to those who do not consume alcohol.

12. Diet
Although there are many inconclusive studies linking diet with development of breast cancer, a large review of studies shows that a high total fat intake as well as high consumption of saturated fat is associated with increased breast cancer risk. On the other hand, high intake of phytoestrogens, particularly lignans, which are found in plants, is associated with a reduction of risk. Other foods that have been found to lower breast cancer risk are soy-based food products and high-fiber foods.

13. Shift Work
Working night shifts has been found to increase one’s risk for breast cancer. On the other hand, some studies have found that sleeping longer may reduce the risk for the disease. One explanation is that lower levels of a sleep hormone, melatonin, which has anti-cancer properties, may increase the likelihood for developing the cancer.

14. Smoking
Many studies link smoking as well as secondhand smoke with various types of cancers. Although some studies show that exposure to tobacco smoke may increase one’s risk for breast cancer, other studies show conflicting results.

Breast Cancer Hormone Therapy

Breast Cancer Hormone Therapy

Some Breast Cancers are formed because of the estrogen in our body and react well to certain hormones and therefore hormone therapy is used as a treatment. These hormones work against estrogen to stop the Tumor from growing. This happens in either of two ways—by blocking estrogen or by slowing the body’s production of estrogen.

Often times the surgeon will recommend hormone therapy to decrease the size before the surgery—thus lessening the trauma to the surrounding tissue. If they have found that the cancer has already metastasized then you will have to engage in hormone therapy in order to control it. Hormone therapy is also done after the surgery, which is normally taken for five years post-operative.

Why Is Hormone Therapy Done?
Hormone therapy can deprive the tumor of estrogen for the breast cancer which is estrogen-receptor positive. For why hormone therapy is done, watch the following video:

Hormone therapy for cancer can help in these areas:

• Prevents the cancer form returning to the site of removal
• Decreases the risk of this same type of cancer forming in other parts of the breast or body
• It will slow or in some cases stop the spread of metastasized cancer
• Reduce the size of an existing tumor before surgery

What Are the Risks of Hormone Therapy for Breast Cancer?
Some common side effects of hormone therapy include:

• Male impotence in men with breast cancer
• Headaches
• Vaginal discharge, dryness or irritation
• Nausea
• Skin rash
• Fatigue
• Pain in joints and muscles
• Menstrual irregularity
• More serious but less common risks
• Cataracts
• Stroke
• Osteoporosis
• Easily broken bones from loss of bone mass
• Heart Disease
• Blood Clots in veins
• Endometrial or Vaginal Cancers

What Drugs Are Used in Hormone Therapy for Breast Cancer?
After chemotherapy is completed, as a post-operative treatment, the hormone therapy will most likely be prescribed as a pill and have to be taken orally once a day. You can take the oral therapy at the same time as radiation therapy.

The surgeon may also ask you to take the oral therapy prior to the operation to shrink the tumor so that the surgery goes smoother and there are fewer traumas to the area. The specific type of therapy as well as the duration will be determined by your individual physical situation.

These are the types of hormone therapy medications used to treat breast cancer.

1. Tamoxifen
Function: This is a hormone that is used to block estrogen and may be used before or after surgery and at menopause as well as by men who have breast cancer. The drug class is called anti-estrogen receptors or SERMS (Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators). These are normally taken once a day, orally, and for a total of five years.

Possible side effects:

• Vaginal Bleeding or discharge
• Hot Flashes
• Vaginal Dryness
• Irregular menstrual periods
• Headaches
• Fatigue

Risks: Tamoxifen may interfere with fertility, increase blood clots, increase risk of stroke and the risk for cataracts. It may also affect the metabolism of other drug.

2. Aromatase Inhibitors
Function: Aromatase inhibitors are used to reduce the amount of estrogen in your body, depriving breast cancer cells of the hormones they need to grow and thrive.

Common inhibitors used: These are hormones used to inhibit the amount of estrogen the tumor will need to survive. There are three in use today: Anastrozole, Exemastane and Letrozol.

Treatment options: Your treatment phase may go on for ten years after the therapy. Five years with Tamoxifan and another five with Aromatase. But you can also go with Aromatase for five years. This is an individual decision to be made by the patient with their physician.

Possibe side effects

• Pain and stiffness of the joints
• Hot flashes
• Brittle bones
• Vaginal bleeding

Results and Follow-up Care of Hormone Therapy for Breast
At this point you will be seeing your oncologist often for regular checkups and discuss with him any side effects that you are having and he or she will work with you to control them. It has been noted that hormone therapy along with radiation and chemotherapy will greatly reduce the risk of cancer of this type to come back. Your subsequent visits to your doctor while you are taking hormone therapy drugs may include analysis of any regrowth so that they can determine how your body is responding to the hormone therapy for breast cancer.

Test for Breast Cancer

Test for Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer, along with Lung Cancer is the top killer of women. Mammograms and other tests are available to screen for cancer when it is at an early stage, so that you can take care of it at the first-signs. In this article, you will learn about what tests are available and what they do, such as breast MRI, mammogram and biopsy. You will also learn how to receive your test results and keep track of your medical records.

Test for breast cancer
1. Breast Self Examination
You can do a self examination easily in the privacy of your own home. The breast self-exam entails you observing and feeling the breast tissues in a certain way—in order to properly detect changes in the density, color and texture—this is also where you may find lumps that may be a sign of cancer.

Breast Cancer - Breast Check Demonstration:

2. Clinical Breast Exam
The clinical breast exam is much like the self-exam done by yourself at home. The clinical breast exam is done by a physician to check for discoloration of the areola around the nipple as well as lumps and bumps. The entire chest area is examined by way of palpation which is a tapping method which will tell the doctor if there is any unusual firmness in the glands in the chest from the breasts to the collar-bone. The lymph glands beneath the armpit are also checked as well as any discharge from the nipple. Additional testing may include analyzing samples of discharge from the breasts.

3. Mammogram
The mammogram is a testing method which will take two x ray views from different angles of the breasts. This is an ideal test for those that are asymptomatic—meaning that they are devoid of having any symptoms or signs that there is anything wrong in the breasts.

Sometimes if the doctor sees something that they think need extra investigation, they will order a spot or cone view. This is a shot taken of a particular area from different angles that helps the doctor better evaluate abnormal breast tissue and decide the next step in the process—such as biopsy.

4. Breast Ultrasound
A breast ultrasound is a test which uses the fluid in your body to send back a picture of what is going on inside. This procedure does not include the use of radiation. The area of the breast to be examined is lubricated with a gel that assists the sonographer to move the wand cross the area so that the sound waves can send back a picture of the inside of the breast.

Ultrasound is generally used after the mammogram is already done. If the doctor sees a spot he or she finds suspicious then ultrasound may be used as a subsequent test. Ultrasound is helpful in telling the difference between a Tumor and a cyst which is nothing more than a liquid-filled sac and can be treated. However, in the case of a tumor, ultrasound can help the doctor decide if it is a benign or malignant tumor.

5. Biopsy
A biopsy is when a sample of the tissue is taken and then inspected by a pathologist who will make a report of the findings which will be given to the oncologist (cancer doctor). If you want to know more about what is on your report—you can go to breast pathology report or call 1-800-227-2345.

The type of biopsy done is decided with the patient. Certain factors must be considered before the test can be done such as total health of the patient, where the lesion is located, number of lesions etc.

6. MRI—Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging
This is a test which requires a bit of time. It uses magnets to translate images back to a computer. The patient is injected with a substance called gadolinium. This substance travels to the area that needs to be imaged to make it dark enough to show up.

After you are injected you will lie flat on a sliding table and placed in a long tube. It may take up to an hour or more for all the pictures to take place. You will be asked to stay completely still during the exam. Most MRI clinics will offer head phones with music or light atmospheric sounds so you are distracted and relaxed through the process.

7. Ductal Lavage
Ductal lavage is a test in the experimental phase and is used for women who have high risk of breast cancer but don’t have any symptoms yet. This is a simple procedure that can be performed in a doctor’s office or on an outpatient basis in a hospital.

An anesthetic cream will be applied to the nipple area. Then a suction device will gently and painlessly draw fluid from the milk ducts so that the doctor can locate them. Then a catheter is inserted into a duct and saline (salt-water) solution is injected and cells are collected. The cells are observed in a lab and results are given to the doctor and discussed with the patient.

Tumor Marker for Breast Cancer

Tumor Marker for Breast Cancer

Tumor marker refers to a substance that is present in an individual’s urine, blood or the tumor itself. Tumor marker is secreted either by the body or by the tumor in the presence of cancer. You may be recommended to have tumor markers tested at various stages of cancer to aid in the diagnosis and treatment. In combination with other medical tests, a test done to measure tumor marker is quite helpful in providing useful information regarding the cancer and its treatment. For those who are concerned, it helps to know what these tumor markers mean and which tumor marker test to choose for a particular Breast Cancer.

How Can We Use Tumor Marker for Breast Cancer?
Tumor markers for breast cancer are used in the following ways:

• To help in the planning of treatment in one of the following scenarios: to determine whether the cancer in a patient has a favorable prognosis or not (what is the behavior of the cancer and the patient’s recovery chances) and whether the cancer will require additional treatment or not; to predict the success of a specific treatment in a patient.
• To help in keeping a check on how a patient is recovering over time.
• To help in determining the risk of developing cancer.
• To help in detecting cancer in its early stage when there are no signs or symptoms of cancer present.

What Are Common Tumor Markers for Breast Cancer?
The common tumor markers used for breast cancer are: ER and PR, HER2, CA 15-3, CA 27.29 and CEA, uPA, PAI-1 and oncotype DX.

1. PR and ER (Progesterone receptor and Estrogen receptor)
ER and/or PR positive breast cancer cells require estrogen and/or progesterone for their growth. ER and PR testing is done to determine whether the cancer requires hormone therapy such as tamoxifen (Nolvadex) for treatment.

2. HER2 (Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2)
This is a protein that is present in large quantities in almost 20-25% of breast cancer cases. To stop the growth of cancer cells anti-HER2 treatment is given which blocks HER2. HER2 tests help the physician to determine whether the cancer requires anti-HER2 treatment such as trastuzumab (Herceptin) or not.

3. CA 15-3 (Cancer antigen 15-3), CA 27.29 (cancer antigen 27.29) and CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen)
These are tumor markers that are present in almost 50-90% of patients suffering from metastatic breast cancer. However, high levels may indicate other condition apart from cancer. These tests are also monitored to determine an early recurrence after initial treatment of the primary tumor. It is also done to determine the success of cancer treatment.

4. uPA (Urokinase plasminogen activator) and PAI-1 (plasminogen activator inhibitor)
These tumor markers are present in high amounts in aggressive forms of cancer or cancers which grow very fast. These tests require specific methods to store and save the tissue for testing and are not as common as other tumor marker tests. Test for these tumor markers is done to determine whether chemotherapy is required after surgery in patients having node-negative (meaning having no cancer found in lymph nodes) breast cancer.

5. Oncotype DX
This test is the measurement of multiple genes at one time to determine the risk of recurrence of breast cancer in patients who have early-stage, ER positive and node-negative breast cancer. Patients who have a low recurrence score usually require treatment with only hormone therapy and they can avoid chemotherapy.

What does Tumor Marker Tests for Different Breast Cancer Mean to You?
Tests for tumor markers help in both planning and monitoring cancer treatment and in determining the prognosis of cancer. The tumor markers mentioned above are helpful in predicting the response to particular therapy and/or also in finding the best treatment for your cancer.

What Questions Should You Ask Your Doctor?
You should ask your doctor the following questions to know more about tumor markers:

• What tumor markers tests are recommended by your doctor? Which tests have already been done?
• What is the method to perform these tests?
• How often will these tests be performed?
• Do the tests need to be done in a laboratory that is accredited by the College of American Pathologists (CAP)?
• What are the test results and how will they affect your treatment?
• What medicines or health conditions may interfere with these tests?

What Are Recommended Tumor Marker Tests for Different Breast Cancer?

Type of Breast Cancer	Recommended Tumor Marker Tests
Newly diagnosed ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)	No tumor marker tests are recommended as DCIS implies that the cancer is confined to the ducts of the breast and is non-invasive in nature.
Newly diagnosed invasive breast cancer	PR and ER tests to aid in the prediction of response to hormone therapy post surgery. HER2 test to aid in the prediction of response to trastuzumab and other anti-HER2 therapies and certain forms of chemotherapy.
Node-negative breast cancer	uPA and PAI-1 tests to determine the prognosis of cancer. Patients with negative uPA and PAI-1 have excellent prognosis and may not require chemotherapy.
Node-negative breast cancer that is ER positive and/or PR positive	Oncotype DX test to identify the patients who will require only tamoxifen and can avoid chemotherapy.
Metastatic breast cancer	ER and PR tests to determine the response to hormone therapy. HER2 test to determine the response to trastuzumab and other anti-HER2 treatments. CA 15-3 and CA 27.29 to monitor treatment; these tests should be used in combination with health history of patient, a complete physical examination, and diagnostic imaging tests including x-ray, CT scan and/or MRI. CEA to monitor treatment; this test should also be used in combination with health history of patient, a complete physical examination and diagnostic imaging tests.
Recurrent breast cancer	HER2 test to determine the response to trastuzumab and other anti-HER2 treatments and indicate which specific chemotherapy need to be used.