Ovarian Cancer

Introduction

The diagnosis of ovarian cancer brings with it many questions and a need for clear, understandable answers. We hope this information will help. It describes the symptoms, detection, diagnosis, and treatment of ovarian cancer. Having this important information can make it easier for women and their families to handle the challenges they face.

What are the ovaries?

The ovaries are a pair of organs in the female reproductive system. They are located in the pelvis, one on each side of the uterus (the hollow, pear-shaped organ where a baby grows). Each ovary is about the size and shape of an almond. The ovaries have two functions: they produce eggs and female hormones (chemicals that control the way certain cells or organs function).

Every month, during the menstrual cycle, an egg is released from one ovary in a process called ovulation. The egg travels from the ovary through the fallopian tube to the uterus.

The ovaries are also the main source of the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. These hormones influence the development of a woman's breasts, body shape, and body hair. They also regulate the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.

Understanding ovarian cancer

Cancer is a group of many related diseases that begin in cells, the body's basic unit of life. To understand cancer, it is helpful to know about normal cells and what happens when they become cancerous.

The body is made up of many types of cells. Normally, cells grow, divide, and produce more cells when the body needs them. This orderly process helps to keep the body healthy. Sometimes, however, cells keep dividing when new cells are not needed. These extra cells form a mass of tissue, called a growth or tumor. Tumors can be benign or malignant.

* Benign tumors are not cancer. They often can be removed and, in most cases, they do not come back. Cells in benign tumors do not spread to other parts of the body. Most important, benign tumors are rarely a threat to life.

Ovarian cysts are a different type of growth. They are fluid-filled sacs that form on the surface of an ovary. They are not cancer. Cysts often go away without treatment. If a cyst does not go away, the doctor may suggest removing it, especially if it seems to be growing. For more, please read the Ovarian Cysts article.

* Malignant tumors are cancer. Cells in these tumors are abnormal and divide without control or order. They can invade and damage nearby tissues and organs. Cancer cells can also spread (metastasize) from their original site to other parts of the body.

A malignant tumor that begins in the ovaries is called ovarian cancer. There are several types of ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer that begins on the surface of the ovary (epithelial carcinoma) is the most common type. This is the type of cancer discussed in this booklet. Ovarian cancer that begins in the egg-producing cells (germ cell tumors) and cancer that begins in the supportive tissue surrounding the ovaries (stromal tumors) are rare and are not discussed in this booklet. The Cancer Information Service and the other NCI sources listed under "National Cancer Institute Information Resources" can provide information or suggest resources that deal with these types of ovarian cancer.

Ovarian cancer cells can break away from the ovary and spread to other tissues and organs in a process called shedding. When ovarian cancer sheds, it tends to seed (form new tumors) on the peritoneum (the large membrane that lines the abdomen) and on the diaphragm (the thin muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen). Fluid may collect in the abdomen. This condition is known as ascites. It may make a woman feel bloated, or her abdomen may look swollen.

Ovarian cancer cells can also enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system (the tissues and organs that produce and store cells that fight infection and disease). Once in the bloodstream or lymphatic system, the cancer cells can travel and form new tumors in other parts of the body.






Who is at risk for ovarian cancer?

The exact causes of ovarian cancer are not known. However, studies show that the following factors may increase the chance of developing this disease:

* Family history. First-degree relatives (mother, daughter, sister) of a woman who has had ovarian cancer are at increased risk of developing this type of cancer themselves. The likelihood is especially high if two or more first-degree relatives have had the disease. The risk is somewhat less, but still above average, if other relatives (grandmother, aunt, cousin) have had ovarian cancer. A family history of breast or colon cancer is also associated with an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.

* Age. The likelihood of developing ovarian cancer increases as a woman gets older. Most ovarian cancers occur in women over the age of 50, with the highest risk in women over 60.

* Childbearing. Women who have never had children are more likely to develop ovarian cancer than women who have had children. In fact, the more children a woman has had, the less likely she is to develop ovarian cancer.

* Personal history. Women who have had breast or colon cancer may have a greater chance of developing ovarian cancer than women who have not had breast or colon cancer.

* Fertility drugs. Drugs that cause a woman to ovulate may slightly increase a woman's chance of developing ovarian cancer. Researchers are studying this possible association.

* Talc. Some studies suggest that women who have used talc in the genital area for many years may be at increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.

* Hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Some evidence suggests that women who use HRT after menopause may have a slightly increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.

About 1 in every 57 women in the United States will develop ovarian cancer. Most cases occur in women over the age of 50, but this disease can also affect younger women.

As we learn more about what causes ovarian cancer, we may also learn how to reduce the chance of getting this disease. Some studies have shown that breast feeding and taking birth control pills (oral contraceptives) may decrease a woman's likelihood of developing ovarian cancer. These factors decrease the number of times a woman ovulates, and studies suggest that reducing the number of ovulations during a woman's lifetime may lower the risk of ovarian cancer.

Women who have had an operation that prevents pregnancy (tubal ligation) or have had their uterus and cervix removed (hysterectomy) also have a lower risk of developing ovarian cancer. In addition, some evidence suggests that reducing the amount of fat in the diet may lower the risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Women who are at high risk for ovarian cancer due to a family history of the disease may consider having their ovaries removed before cancer develops (prophylactic oophorectomy). This procedure usually, but not always, protects women from developing ovarian cancer. The risks associated with this surgery and its side effects should be carefully considered. A woman should discuss the possible benefits and risks with her doctor based on her unique situation.

Having one or more of the risk factors mentioned here does not mean that a woman is sure to develop ovarian cancer, but the chance may be higher than average. Women who are concerned about ovarian cancer may want to talk with a doctor who specializes in treating women with cancer: a gynecologist, a gynecologic oncologist, or a medical oncologist. The doctor may be able to suggest ways to reduce the likelihood of developing ovarian cancer and can plan an appropriate schedule for checkups.






What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer?

Detecting ovarian cancer

The sooner ovarian cancer is found and treated, the better a woman's chance for recovery. But ovarian cancer is hard to detect early. Many times, women with ovarian cancer have no symptoms or just mild symptoms until the disease is in an advanced stage. Scientists are studying ways to detect ovarian cancer before symptoms develop. They are exploring the usefulness of measuring the level of CA 125, a substance called a tumor marker, which is often found in higher-than-normal amounts in the blood of women with ovarian cancer. They also are evaluating transvaginal ultrasound, a test that may help detect the disease early. The Cancer Information Service can provide information about this research.

A large-scale study, known as the PLCO (Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian) Cancer Screening Trial, is currently evaluating the usefulness of a blood test for the tumor marker known as CA-125 and a test called transvaginal ultrasound for ovarian cancer screening.

Recognizing ovarian cancer symptoms

Ovarian cancer often shows no obvious signs or symptoms until late in its development. Signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer may include:

* General abdominal discomfort and/or pain (gas, indigestion, pressure, swelling, bloating, cramps)
* Nausea, diarrhea, constipation, or frequent urination
* Loss of appetite
* Feeling of fullness even after a light meal
* Weight gain or loss with no known reason
* Abnormal bleeding from the vagina

These symptoms may be caused by ovarian cancer or by other, less serious conditions. It is important to check with a doctor about any of these symptoms.

To help find the cause of symptoms, a doctor evaluates a woman's medical history. The doctor also performs a physical exam and orders diagnostic tests. Some exams and tests that may be useful are described below:

* Pelvic exam includes feeling the uterus, vagina, ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, and rectum to find any abnormality in their shape or size. (A Pap test, a good test for cancer of the cervix, is often done along with the pelvic exam, but it is not a reliable way to find or diagnose ovarian cancer.)

* Ultrasound refers to the use of high-frequency sound waves. These waves, which cannot be heard by humans, are aimed at the ovaries. The pattern of the echoes they produce creates a picture called a sonogram. Healthy tissues, fluid-filled cysts, and tumors look different on this picture.

* CA-125 assay is a blood test used to measure the level of CA-125, a tumor marker that is often found in higher-than-normal amounts in the blood of women with ovarian cancer.

* Lower GI series, or barium enema, is a series of x-rays of the colon and rectum. The pictures are taken after the patient is given an enema with a white, chalky solution containing barium. The barium outlines the colon and rectum on the x-ray, making tumors or other abnormal areas easier to see.

* CT (or CAT) scan is a series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body created by a computer linked to an x-ray machine.

* Biopsy is the removal of tissue for examination under a microscope. A pathologist studies the tissue to make a diagnosis. To obtain the tissue, the surgeon performs a laparotomy (an operation to open the abdomen). If cancer is suspected, the surgeon performs an oophorectomy (removal of the entire ovary). This is important because, if cancer is present, removing just a sample of tissue by cutting through the outer layer of the ovary could allow cancer cells to escape and cause the disease to spread.

If the diagnosis is ovarian cancer, the doctor will want to learn the stage (or extent) of disease. Staging is a careful attempt to find out whether the cancer has spread and, if so, to what parts of the body. Staging may involve surgery, x-rays and other imaging procedures, and lab tests. Knowing the stage of the disease helps the doctor plan treatment.






How is ovarian cancer treated?

Treatment depends on a number of factors, including the stage of the disease and the general health of the patient. Patients are often treated by a team of specialists. The team may include a gynecologist, a gynecologic oncologist, a medical oncologist, and/or a radiation oncologist. Many different treatments and combinations of treatments are used to treat ovarian cancer.

* Surgery is the usual initial treatment for women diagnosed with ovarian cancer. The ovaries, the fallopian tubes, the uterus, and the cervix are usually removed. This operation is called a hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Often, the surgeon also removes the omentum (the thin tissue covering the stomach and large intestine) and lymph nodes (small organs located along the channels of the lymphatic system) in the abdomen.

Staging during surgery (to find out whether the cancer has spread) generally involves removing lymph nodes, samples of tissue from the diaphragm and other organs in the abdomen, and fluid from the abdomen. If the cancer has spread, the surgeon usually removes as much of the cancer as possible in a procedure called tumor debulking. Tumor debulking reduces the amount of cancer that will have to be treated later with chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

* Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be given to destroy any cancerous cells that may remain in the body after surgery, to control tumor growth, or to relieve symptoms of the disease.

Most drugs used to treat ovarian cancer are given by injection into a vein (intravenously, or IV). The drugs can be injected directly into a vein or given through a catheter, a thin tube. The catheter is placed into a large vein and remains there as long as it is needed. Some anticancer drugs are taken by mouth. Whether they are given intravenously or by mouth, the drugs enter the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body.

Another way to give chemotherapy is to put the drug directly into the abdomen through a catheter. With this method, called intraperitoneal chemotherapy, most of the drug remains in the abdomen.

After chemotherapy is completed, second-look surgery may be performed to examine the abdomen directly. The surgeon may remove fluid and tissue samples to see whether the anticancer drugs have been successful.

* Radiation therapy, also called radiotherapy, involves the use of high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy affects the cancer cells only in the treated area. The radiation may come from a machine (external radiation). Some women receive a treatment called intraperitoneal radiation therapy in which radioactive liquid is put directly into the abdomen through a catheter.

Clinical trials (research studies) to evaluate new ways to treat cancer are an important treatment option for many women with ovarian cancer. In some studies, all patients receive the new treatment. In others, doctors compare different therapies by giving the promising new treatment to one group of patients and the usual (standard) therapy to another group. Through research, doctors learn new, more effective ways to treat cancer. More information about treatment studies can be found in the NCI publication Taking Part in Clinical Trials: What Cancer Patients Need To Know. NCI's Web site includes a section on clinical trials at http://cancer.gov/clinical_trials. This section provides detailed information about ongoing studies for ovarian cancer. Clinical trial information is also available from the Cancer Information Service by calling 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237).






What are the possible side effects of treatment for ovarian cancer?

The side effects of cancer treatment depend on the type of treatment and may be different for each woman. Doctors and nurses will explain the possible side effects of treatment, and they can suggest ways to help relieve problems that may occur during and after treatment.

* Surgery causes short-term pain and tenderness in the area of the operation. Discomfort or pain after surgery can be controlled with medicine. Patients should feel free to discuss pain relief with their doctor. For several days after surgery, the patient may have difficulty emptying her bladder and having bowel movements.

When both ovaries are removed, a woman loses her ability to become pregnant. Some women may experience feelings of loss that may make intimacy difficult. Counseling or support for both the patient and her partner may be helpful.

Also, removing the ovaries means that the body's natural source of estrogen and progesterone is lost, and menopause occurs. Symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness, are likely to appear soon after the surgery. Some form of hormone replacement therapy may be used to ease such symptoms. Deciding whether to use it is a personal choice; women with ovarian cancer should discuss with their doctors the possible risks and benefits of using hormone replacement therapy.

* Chemotherapy affects normal as well as cancerous cells. Side effects depend largely on the specific drugs and the dose (amount of drug given). Common side effects of chemotherapy include nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, fatigue, numbness and tingling in hands or feet, headaches, hair loss, and darkening of the skin and fingernails. Certain drugs used in the treatment of ovarian cancer can cause some hearing loss or kidney damage. To help protect the kidneys while taking these drugs, patients may receive extra fluid intravenously.

* Radiation therapy, like chemotherapy, affects normal as well as cancerous cells. Side effects of radiation therapy depend mainly on the treatment dose and the part of the body that is treated. Common side effects of radiation therapy to the abdomen are fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, urinary discomfort, diarrhea, and skin changes on the abdomen. Intraperitoneal radiation therapy may cause abdominal pain and bowel obstruction (a blockage of the intestine).

Doctors and nurses will explain the possible side effects of treatment, and they can suggest ways to help relieve problems that may occur during and after treatment.

The importance of followup care

Followup care after treatment for ovarian cancer is important. Regular checkups generally include a physical exam, as well as a pelvic exam and Pap test. The doctor also may perform additional tests such as a chest x-ray, CT scan, urinalysis, complete blood count, and CA-125 assay.

In addition to having followup exams to check for the return of ovarian cancer, patients may also want to ask their doctor about checking them for other types of cancer. Women who have had ovarian cancer may be at increased risk of developing breast or colon cancer. In addition, treatment with certain anticancer drugs may increase the risk of second cancers, such as leukemia.

Emotional support

Living with a serious disease is challenging. Apart from having to cope with the physical and medical challenges, people with cancer face many worries, feelings, and concerns that can make life difficult. They may need help coping with the emotional aspects of their disease.

In fact, attention to the emotional burden of having cancer is often a part of a patient's treatment plan. The support of the health care team (doctors, nurses, social workers), support groups, and patient-to-patient networks can help people feel less isolated and distressed and can improve the quality of their lives. Cancer support groups provide an environment where cancer patients can talk about living with cancer with others who may be having similar experiences. Patients may want to speak with their health care team about finding a support group.






What does the future hold for ovarian cancer patients?

The National Cancer Institute is supporting and conducting research on the causes and prevention of ovarian cancer. Researchers have discovered that changes in certain genes (basic units of heredity) are responsible for an increased risk of developing ovarian and breast cancers. Members of families with many cases of these diseases may consider having a special blood test to see if they have a genetic change that increases the risk of these types of cancer. Although having such a genetic change does not mean that a woman is sure to develop ovarian or breast cancer, those who have the genetic change may want to discuss their options with a doctor. Information about gene testing is also available in the NCI publication Understanding Gene Testing, which can be ordered from the CIS at 1-800-4-CANCER or on the Internet at http://cancer.gov/publications.

What resources are available to patients with ovarian cancer?

Cancer Information Service (CIS)
Provides accurate, up-to-date information on cancer to patients and their families, health professionals, and the general public. Information specialists translate the latest scientific information into understandable language and respond in English, Spanish, or on TTY equipment.

Toll-free: 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237)
TTY (for deaf and hard of hearing callers): 1-800-332-8615
Ovarian Cancer At A Glance

* Most ovarian growths in women under age 30 are benign, fluid-filled cysts.
* There are several types of ovarian cancer.
* Factors that increase the chance of developing ovarian cancer have been identified.
* The symptoms of ovarian cancer can be vague.
* Detection of ovarian cancer involves physical examination (including pelvic exam), ultrasound, X-rays, the CA-125 blood test and biopsy of the ovary.
* The treatment of ovarian cancer depends on the stage of the disease and the age and health of the woman.


More : http://www.medicinenet.com/ovarian_cancer

Cervical Cancer

What is the cervix?

The cervix is part of a woman's reproductive system. It is the lower, narrow part of the uterus (womb). The uterus is a hollow, pear-shaped organ in the lower abdomen. The cervix connects the uterus to the vagina. The vagina leads to the outside of the body.

The cervical canal is a passageway. Blood flows from the uterus through the canal into the vagina during a woman's menstrual period. The cervix also produces mucus. The mucus helps sperm move from the vagina into the uterus. During pregnancy, the cervix is tightly closed to help keep the baby inside the uterus. During childbirth, the cervix dilates (opens) to allow the baby to pass through the vagina.

What is cancer?

Cancer begins in cells, the building blocks that make up tissues. Tissues make up the organs of the body.

Normally, cells grow and divide to form new cells as the body needs them. When cells grow old, they die, and new cells take their place.

Sometimes, this orderly process goes wrong. New cells form when the body does not need them, and old cells do not die when they should. These extra cells can form a mass of tissue called a growth or tumor.

Tumors can be benign or malignant:
# Benign tumors are not cancer:

* Benign tumors are rarely life-threatening.
* Generally, benign tumors can be removed, and they usually do not grow back.
* Cells from benign tumors do not invade the tissues around them.
* Cells from benign tumors do not spread to other parts of the body.
* Polyps, cysts, and genital warts are types of benign growths on the cervix.


# Malignant tumors are cancer:

* Malignant tumors are generally more serious than benign tumors. They may be life-threatening.
* Malignant tumors often can be removed. But sometimes they grow back.
* Cells from malignant tumors can invade and damage nearby tissues and organs.
* Cells from malignant tumors can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body. Cancer cells spread by breaking away from the original (primary) tumor and entering the bloodstream or lymphatic system. The cells invade other organs and form new tumors that damage these organs. The spread of cancer is called metastasis.

When cancer spreads from its original place to another part of the body, the new tumor has the same kind of abnormal cells and the same name as the primary tumor. For example, if cervical cancer spreads to the lungs, the cancer cells in the lungs are actually cervical cancer cells. The disease is metastatic cervical cancer, not lung cancer. For that reason, it is treated as cervical cancer, not lung cancer. Doctors call the new tumor "distant" or metastatic disease.






Risk factors and causes of cervical cancer

Doctors cannot always explain why one woman develops cervical cancer and another does not. However, we do know that a woman with certain risk factors may be more likely than others to develop cervical cancer. A risk factor is something that may increase the chance of developing a disease.

Studies have found a number of factors that may increase the risk of cervical cancer. These factors may act together to increase the risk even more:

* Human papillomaviruses (HPVs): HPV infection is the main risk factor for cervical cancer. HPV is a group of viruses that can infect the cervix. HPV infections are very common. These viruses can be passed from person to person through sexual contact. Most adults have been infected with HPV at some time in their lives. Some types of HPV can cause changes to cells in the cervix. These changes can lead to genital warts, cancer, and other problems. Doctors may check for HPV even if there are no warts or other symptoms.

If a woman has an HPV infection, her doctor can discuss ways to avoid infecting other people. The Pap test can detect cell changes in the cervix caused by HPV. Treatment of these cell changes can prevent cervical cancer. There are several treatment methods, including freezing or burning the infected tissue. Sometimes medicine also helps.

* Lack of regular Pap tests: Cervical cancer is more common among women who do not have regular Pap tests. The Pap test helps doctors find precancerous cells. Treating precancerous cervical changes often prevents cancer.
* Weakened immune system (the body's natural defense system): Women with HIV (the virus that causes AIDS) infection or who take drugs that suppress the immune system have a higher-than-average risk of developing cervical cancer. For these women, doctors suggest regular screening for cervical cancer.
* Age: Cancer of the cervix occurs most often in women over the age of 40.
* Sexual history: Women who have had many sexual partners have a higher-than-average risk of developing cervical cancer. Also, a woman who has had sexual intercourse with a man who has had many sexual partners may be at higher risk of developing cervical cancer. In both cases, the risk of developing cervical cancer is higher because these women have a higher-than-average risk of HPV infection.
* Smoking cigarettes: Women with an HPV infection who smoke cigarettes have a higher risk of cervical cancer than women with HPV infection who do not smoke.
* Using birth control pills for a long time: Using birth control pills for a long time (5 or more years) may increase the risk of cervical cancer among women with HPV infection.
* Having many children: Studies suggest that giving birth to many children may increase the risk of cervical cancer among women with HPV infection.

Diethylstilbestrol (DES) may increase the risk of a rare form of cervical cancer and certain other cancers of the reproductive system in daughters exposed to this drug before birth. DES was given to some pregnant women in the United States between about 1940 and 1971. (It is no longer given to pregnant women.)

Women who think they may be at risk for cancer of the cervix should discuss this concern with their doctor. They may want to ask about a schedule for checkups.





Screening for cervical cancer

Screening to check for cervical changes before there are symptoms is very important. Screening can help the doctor find abnormal cells before cancer develops. Finding and treating abnormal cells can prevent most cervical cancer. Also, screening can help find cancer early, when treatment is more likely to be effective.

For the past several decades, the number of women diagnosed each year with cervical cancer has been falling. Doctors believe this is mainly because of the success of screening.

Doctors recommend that women help reduce their risk of cervical cancer by having regular Pap tests. A Pap test (sometimes called Pap smear or cervical smear) is a simple test used to look at cervical cells. For most women, the test is not painful. A Pap test is done in a doctor's office or clinic during a pelvic exam. The doctor or nurse scrapes a sample of cells from the cervix, and then smears the cells on a glass slide. In a new type of Pap test (liquid-based Pap test), the cells are rinsed into a small container of liquid. A special machine puts the cells onto slides. For both types of Pap test, a lab checks the cells on the slides under a microscope for abnormalities.

Pap tests can find cervical cancer or abnormal cells that can lead to cervical cancer. Doctors generally recommend that:

* Women should begin having Pap tests 3 years after they begin having sexual intercourse, or when they reach age 21 (whichever comes first).
* Most women should have a Pap test at least once every 3 years.
* Women aged 65 to 70 who have had at least three normal Pap tests and no abnormal Pap tests in the past 10 years may decide, after speaking with their doctor, to stop cervical cancer screening.
* Women who have had a hysterectomy (surgery) to remove the uterus and cervix, also called a total hysterectomy, do not need to have cervical cancer screening. However, if the surgery was treatment for precancerous cells or cancer, the woman should continue with screening.

Women should talk with their doctor about when they should begin having Pap tests, how often to have them, and when they can stop having them. This is especially important for women at higher-than-average risk of cervical cancer.

Some activities can hide abnormal cells and affect Pap test results. Doctors suggest the following tips:

* Do not douche for 48 hours before the test.
* Do not have sexual intercourse for 48 hours before the test.
* Do not use vaginal medicines (except as directed by a doctor) or birth control foams, creams, or jellies for 48 hours before the test.

Doctors also suggest that a woman schedule her Pap test for a time that is 10 to 20 days after the first day of her menstrual period.

Most often, abnormal cells found by a Pap test are not cancerous. However, some abnormal conditions may become cancer over time:

* LSIL (low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion): LSILs are mild cell changes on the surface of the cervix. Such changes often are caused by HPV infections. LSILs are common, especially in young women. LSILs are not cancer. Even without treatment, most LSILs stay the same or go away. However, some turn into high-grade lesions, which may lead to cancer.
* HSIL (high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion): HSILs are not cancer, but without treatment they may lead to cancer. The precancerous cells are only on the surface of the cervix. They look very different from normal cells.






Symptoms of cervical cancer

Precancerous changes and early cancers of the cervix generally do not cause pain or other symptoms. It is important not to wait to feel pain before seeing a doctor.

When the disease gets worse, women may notice one or more of these symptoms:

* Abnormal vaginal bleeding
* Bleeding that occurs between regular menstrual periods
* Bleeding after sexual intercourse, douching, or a pelvic exam
* Menstrual periods that last longer and are heavier than before
* Bleeding after menopause
* Increased vaginal discharge
* Pelvic pain
* Pain during sexual intercourse

Infections or other health problems may also cause these symptoms. Only a doctor can tell for sure. A woman with any of these symptoms should tell her doctor so that problems can be diagnosed and treated as early as possible.

Diagnosis of cervical cancer

If a woman has a symptom or Pap test results that suggest precancerous cells or cancer of the cervix, her doctor will suggest other procedures to make a diagnosis.

These may include:

* Colposcopy: The doctor uses a colposcope to look at the cervix. The colposcope combines a bright light with a magnifying lens to make tissue easier to see. It is not inserted into the vagina. A colposcopy is usually done in the doctor's office or clinic.
* Biopsy: The doctor removes tissue to look for precancerous cells or cancer cells. Most women have their biopsy in the doctor's office with local anesthesia. A pathologist checks the tissue with a microscope.
o Punch biopsy: The doctor uses a sharp, hollow device to pinch off small samples of cervical tissue.
o LEEP: The doctor uses an electric wire loop to slice off a thin, round piece of tissue.
o Endocervical curettage: The doctor uses a curette (a small, spoon-shaped instrument) to scrape a small sample of tissue from the cervical canal. Some doctors may use a thin, soft brush instead of a curette.
o Conization: The doctor removes a cone-shaped sample of tissue. A conization, or cone biopsy, lets the pathologist see if abnormal cells are in the tissue beneath the surface of the cervix. The doctor may do this test in the hospital under general anesthesia. Conization also may be used to remove a precancerous area.

Removing tissue from the cervix may cause some bleeding or other discharge. The area usually heals quickly. Women may also feel some pain similar to menstrual cramps. Medicine can relieve this discomfort.






reatment of cervical cancer

Staging

If the biopsy shows that you have cancer, your doctor will do a thorough pelvic exam and may remove additional tissue to learn the extent (stage) of your disease. The stage tells whether the tumor has invaded nearby tissues, whether the cancer has spread and, if so, to what parts of the body.

These are the stages of cervical cancer:

* Stage 0: The cancer is found only in the top layer of cells in the tissue that lines the cervix. Stage 0 is also called carcinoma in situ.
* Stage I: The cancer has invaded the cervix beneath the top layer of cells. It is found only in the cervix.
* Stage II: The cancer extends beyond the cervix into nearby tissues. It extends to the upper part of the vagina. The cancer does not invade the lower third of the vagina or the pelvic wall (the lining of the part of the body between the hips).
* Stage III: The cancer extends to the lower part of the vagina. It also may have spread to the pelvic wall and nearby lymph nodes.
* Stage IV: The cancer has spread to the bladder, rectum, or other parts of the body.
* Recurrent cancer: The cancer was treated, but has returned after a period of time during which it could not be detected. The cancer may show up again in the cervix or in other parts of the body.

To learn the extent of disease and suggest a course of treatment, the doctor may order some of the following tests:

* Chest x-rays: X-rays often can show whether cancer has spread to the lungs.
* CT scan: An x-ray machine linked to a computer takes a series of detailed pictures of your organs. You may receive contrast material by injection in your arm or hand, by mouth, or by enema. (Some people are allergic to contrast materials that contain iodine. Tell your doctor or nurse if you have allergies.) The contrast material makes abnormal areas easier to see. A tumor in the liver, lungs, or elsewhere in the body can show up on the CT scan.
* MRI: A powerful magnet linked to a computer is used to make detailed pictures of your pelvis and abdomen. The doctor can view these pictures on a monitor and can print them on film. An MRI can show whether cancer has spread. Sometimes contrast material makes abnormal areas show up more clearly on the picture.
* Ultrasound: An ultrasound device is held against the abdomen or inserted into the vagina. The device sends out sound waves that people cannot hear. The waves bounce off the cervix and nearby tissues, and a computer uses the echoes to create a picture. Tumors may produce echoes that are different from the echoes made by healthy tissues. The picture can show whether cancer has spread.

Treatment

Many women with cervical cancer want to take an active part in making decisions about their medical care. It is natural to want to learn all you can about your disease and your treatment choices. However, shock and stress after the diagnosis can make it hard to think of everything you want to ask the doctor. It often helps to make a list of questions before an appointment.

To help remember what the doctor says, you may take notes or ask whether you may use a tape recorder. You may also want to have a family member or friend with you when you talk to the doctor - to take part in the discussion, to take notes, or just to listen.

You do not need to ask all your questions at once. You will have other chances to ask your doctor to explain things that are not clear and to ask for more information.

Your doctor may refer you to a specialist, or you may ask for a referral. Gynecologists, gynecologic oncologists, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists are specialists who treat cervical cancer.

Getting a second opinion

Before starting treatment, you might want a second opinion about the diagnosis and treatment plan. Many insurance companies cover a second opinion if you or your doctor requests it. It may take some time and effort to gather medical records and arrange to see another doctor. Usually it is not a problem to take several weeks to get a second opinion. In most cases, the delay in starting treatment will not make treatment less effective. To make sure, you should discuss this delay with your doctor. Some women with cervical cancer need treatment right away.

There are a number of ways to find a doctor for a second opinion:

* Your doctor may refer you to one or more specialists. At cancer centers, several specialists often work together as a team.
* NCI's Cancer Information Service, at 1-800-4-CANCER, can tell you about nearby treatment centers. Information Specialists also can provide online assistance through LiveHelp at http://www.cancer.gov.
* A local or state medical society, a nearby hospital, or a medical school can usually provide the names of specialists in your area.
* The American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) has a list of doctors who have had training and passed exams in their specialty. You can find this list in the Official ABMS Directory of Board Certified Medical Specialists. This Directory is in most public libraries. Or you can look up doctors at http://www.abms.org. (Click on "Who's Certified.")
* The NCI provides a helpful fact sheet called "How To Find a Doctor or Treatment Facility If You Have Cancer."

Preparing for treatment

The choice of treatment depends mainly on the size of the tumor and whether the cancer has spread. If a woman is of childbearing age, the treatment choice may also depend on whether she wants to become pregnant someday.

Your doctor can describe your treatment choices and the expected results of each. You and your doctor can work together to develop a treatment plan that meets your medical needs and personal values.





Side effects of treatment for cervical cancer

Because cancer treatment often damages healthy cells and tissues, unwanted side effects are common. Side effects depend mainly on the type and extent of the treatment. Side effects may not be the same for each woman, and they may change from one treatment session to the next. Before treatment starts, your health care team will explain possible side effects and suggest ways to help you manage them.

For additional information on cancer treatment and side effects, read Cancer Health e-Tools.

Surgery

It takes time to heal after surgery, and the recovery time is different for each woman. You may be uncomfortable for the first few days. However, medicine can usually control the pain. Before surgery, you should discuss the plan for pain relief with your doctor or nurse. After surgery, your doctor can adjust the plan if you need more pain relief.

If you have surgery to remove a small tumor on the surface of the cervix, you may have cramping or other pain, bleeding, or a watery discharge.

If you have a hysterectomy, the length of the hospital stay may vary from several days to a week. It is common to feel tired or weak for a while. You may have problems with nausea and vomiting, and you may have bladder and bowel problems. The doctor may restrict your diet to liquids at first, with a gradual return to solid food. Most women return to their normal activities within 4 to 8 weeks after surgery.

After a hysterectomy, women no longer have menstrual periods. They cannot become pregnant.

When the ovaries are removed, menopause occurs at once. Hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause caused by surgery may be more severe than those caused by natural menopause. You may wish to discuss this with your doctor before surgery. Some drugs have been shown to help with these symptoms, and they may be more effective if started before surgery.

After surgery, some women may be concerned about sexual intimacy. Many women find that it helps to share these concerns with their partner. A couple may want to ask a counselor to help them express their concerns.

Radiation therapy

Side effects depend mainly on the dose of radiation and the part of your body that is treated. Radiation to the abdomen and pelvis may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or urinary problems. You may lose hair in your genital area. Also, your skin in the treated area may become red, dry, and tender.

You may have dryness, itching, or burning in your vagina. The radiation may also make your vagina narrower. The doctor or nurse may suggest ways to relieve discomfort. There also are ways to expand the vagina, which will help make follow-up exams easier. Your doctor may advise you not to have intercourse during treatment. But most women can resume sexual activity within a few weeks after treatment ends.

You are likely to become very tired during radiation therapy, especially in the later weeks of treatment. Resting is important, but doctors usually advise patients to try to stay as active as they can.

Although the side effects of radiation therapy can be distressing, your doctor can usually find ways to relieve them. For additional information on radiation therapy side effects, read Cancer Treatment Side Effect: Radiation Recall.

Chemotherapy

The side effects of chemotherapy depend mainly on the specific drugs and the dose. The drugs affect cancer cells and other cells that divide rapidly:

* Blood cells: These cells fight infection, help your blood to clot, and carry oxygen to all parts of the body. When drugs affect your blood cells, you are more likely to get infections, bruise or bleed easily, and feel very weak and tired.
* Cells in hair roots: Chemotherapy can cause you to lose your hair. The hair will grow back, but it may be somewhat different in color and texture.
* Cells that line the digestive tract: Chemotherapy can cause a poor appetite, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, or mouth and lip sores. The drugs used for cervical cancer also may cause skin rash, hearing problems, loss of balance, joint pain, or swollen legs and feet.

Your doctor can suggest ways to control many of these side effects. For additional information on chemotherapy side effects, read Chemotherapy and Cancer Treatment, Coping with Side Effects.

Complementary and alternative medicine

Some people with cancer use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to ease stress or to reduce side effects and symptoms:

* An approach is generally called complementary medicine when it is used along with standard treatment.
* An approach is called alternative medicine when it is used instead of standard treatment.

Acupuncture, massage therapy, herbal products, vitamins or special diets, visualization, meditation, and spiritual healing are types of CAM. Many people say that such approaches help them feel better.

However, some types of CAM, including certain vitamins, may interfere with standard treatment. Combining CAM with standard treatment may even be harmful. Before trying any type of CAM, you should discuss its possible benefits and harmful effects with your doctor.

Some types of CAM are expensive. Health insurance may not cover the cost.

Nutrition

It is important to eat well during cancer treatment. Eating well means getting enough calories to maintain a good weight and enough protein to keep up your strength. Good nutrition often helps people with cancer feel better and have more energy.

But eating well can be difficult. You may not feel like eating if you are uncomfortable or tired. Also, the side effects of treatment (such as poor appetite, nausea, vomiting, or mouth sores) can be a problem. Some people find that foods do not taste as good during cancer therapy.

The doctor, a dietitian, or another health care provider can suggest ways to maintain a healthy diet. For additional information, read Cancer Treatment - Managing Eating Problems.






Follow-up care for cervical cancer

Follow-up care after treatment for cervical cancer is important. Even when the cancer seems to have been completely removed or destroyed, the disease sometimes returns because undetected cancer cells remained somewhere in the body after treatment. Your doctor will monitor your recovery and check for recurrence of the cancer. Checkups help ensure that any changes in your health are noted and treated as needed. Checkups may include a physical exam as well as Pap tests and chest x-rays. Between scheduled visits, you should contact the doctor right away if you have any health problems.

To help answer questions about follow-up care and other concerns, NCI has a booklet for people who have completed their treatment. Facing Forward Series: Life After Cancer Treatment provides tips for making the best use of medical visits. It describes how to talk with the doctor about creating a plan of action for your recovery and future health.

Sources of support for patients with cervical cancer

Living with a serious disease such as cervical cancer is not easy. You may worry about caring for your family, keeping your job, or continuing daily activities. Concerns about treatments and managing side effects, hospital stays, and medical bills are also common. Doctors, nurses, and other members of the health care team can answer questions about treatment, working, or other activities. Meeting with a social worker, counselor, or member of the clergy can be helpful if you want to talk about your feelings or concerns. Often, a social worker can suggest resources for financial aid, transportation, home care, or emotional support.

Support groups also can help. In these groups, patients or their family members meet with other patients or their families to share what they have learned about coping with the disease and the effects of treatment. Groups may offer support in person, over the telephone, or on the Internet. You may want to talk with a member of your health care team about finding a support group.

Cancer Information Specialists at 1-800-4-CANCER can help you locate programs, services, and publications. Also, you may want to see the NCI fact sheet called "National Organizations That Offer Services to People With Cancer and Their Families."

The promise of cancer research

Doctors all over the country are conducting many types of clinical trials (research studies in which people volunteer to take part). They are studying new ways to treat cervical cancer. Some are also studying therapies that may improve the quality of life for women during or after cancer treatment.

Clinical trials are designed to answer important questions and to find out whether new approaches are safe and effective. Research already has led to many advances, and researchers continue to search for more effective methods for dealing with cancer.

Researchers are testing new approaches to treatment, including anticancer drugs and drug combinations. They also are studying different methods, doses, and schedules of radiation therapy. Some trials are combining chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy. Other trials are researching biological therapy.

Researchers also are studying surgery to remove sentinel lymph nodes. A sentinel lymph node is the first lymph node to which the cancer is likely to spread. Today, surgeons often have to remove many lymph nodes and check each of them for cancer. But if the research shows that it is possible to identify the sentinel lymph node (the lymph node most likely to have cancer), doctors may be able to avoid more surgery to remove other lymph nodes.

People who join clinical trials may be among the first to benefit if a new approach is effective. And even if participants do not benefit directly, they still make an important contribution to medicine by helping doctors learn more about the disease and how to control it. Although clinical trials may pose some risks, researchers do all they can to protect their patients.

If you are interested in being part of a clinical trial, talk with your doctor. You may want to read the NCI booklet Taking Part in Clinical Trials: What Cancer Patients Need To Know. The NCI also offers an easy-to-read brochure called If You Have Cancer�What You Should Know About Clinical Trials. These NCI publications describe how clinical trials are carried out and explain their possible benefits and risks.

NCI's Web site includes a section on clinical trials at http://www.cancer.gov/clinical_trials. It has general information about clinical trials as well as detailed information about specific ongoing studies of cervical cancer.






National Cancer Institute information resources

You may want more information for yourself, your family, and your doctor. The following National Cancer Institute (NCI) services are available to help you.

Telephone

Cancer Information Service (CIS) The CIS provides accurate, up-to-date information on cancer to patients and their families, health professionals, and the general public. Information Specialists translate the latest scientific information into understandable language and respond in English, Spanish, or on TTY equipment. Calls to the CIS are free.

Telephone: 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237)
TTY: 1-800-332-8615

Internet

The NCI's Web site (http://www.cancer.gov) provides information from numerous NCI sources. It offers current information on cancer prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment, genetics, supportive care, and ongoing clinical trials. It has information about NCI's research programs and funding opportunities, cancer statistics, and the Institute itself.
Cervix Cancer At A Glance

* Risk factors for cancer of the cervix have been identified.
* Regular pelvic exams and Pap testing can detect precancerous changes in the cervix.
* Precancerous changes in the cervix may be treated with cryosurgery, cauterization, or laser surgery.
* The most common symptom of cancer of the cervix is abnormal bleeding.
* Cancer of the cervix can be diagnosed using a Pap test or other procedures that sample the cervix tissue.
* Cancer of the cervix requires different treatment than cancer that begin in other parts of the uterus.


More :http://www.medicinenet.com

Lung Cancer

Are You At Risk Of Developing Lung Cancer?
By Michael Russell

It is estimated that a non-smoker's lifetime risk of lung cancer is 1 in 100 while a smoker's risk is 1 in 12. Among which group of people do you belong? Are you worried that your risk of developing lung cancer is high?

Lung cancer like any other forms of cancer is a much-dreaded disease. Because it doesn't have visible symptoms during the early stage, it is often diagnosed during the later stage of the disease when the cancer has already spread to other organs and when treatment becomes difficult and survival rate is low.

People who are likely to develop lung cancer are those who have one or more of the following risk factors.

1. Women are more prone to develop lung cancer than men are. One study shows that a gene associate with abnormal cell growth was found to be more active in women than in men whether these women smoked or not. Some research also shows that smoking women are more susceptible to the cancer-causing chemicals found in cigarettes than their male counterparts.

2. Smoking is one of the greatest risk factor of lung cancer. It is estimated that 9 out of 10 lung cancer cases are caused by smoking. A person's risk of developing lung cancer increases with the number of years he or she has smoked. The longer the person has been smoking, the higher is his or her risk of developing lung cancer.

3. Sad news for people who have not even puffed a single cigarette but are continually exposed to cigarette smoke; your risk of developing lung cancer rises as much as 30 percent especially if you are exposed daily to second-hand smoking.

4. Exposure to radon, an odorless gas found in water and the ground, increases a person's risk of developing lung cancer. Radon is considered to be the second most common cause of lung cancer after cigarette smoking.

5. Our workplace can sometimes increase our risk of developing lung cancer. People who are exposed to carcinogens like arsenic, asbestos, chloromethyl ether and chromium compounds in their workplaces have higher risk of developing lung cancer. It is estimated that about 9,000 men and 900 women develop lung cancer annually due to workplace exposure of known carcinogenic compounds. The risk becomes even greater for people who smoke.

6. Women who undergo estrogen replacement may be at higher risk of developing lung cancer. According to researchers from the University of Pittsburg, the growth of non-small-cell lung cancer may be fueled by estrogen.

It is important that lung cancer be detected early. The symptomless early stages often mislead lung cancer patients into believing that there is nothing wrong with his or her health. Often it is already late and cancer has already spread to other areas before diagnosis is being made. Those who are well informed about the possibility and the level of their risk of developing lung cancer will be able to seek for medical check-up and professional opinion early before the disease can even spread.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Lung Cancer

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell





Learn How To Prevent Lung Cancer
By Michael Russell

Lung cancer is a malignant disease commonly associated with people who smoke heavily. It is estimated that a higher number of men are suffering from this form of cancer. Lately however, the number of women affected with lung cancer is steadily catching up with the number of men affected with the disease.

Diet is an important measure in preventing lung cancer. The risk of developing lung cancer for smokers and non-smokers alike are lowered when they eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily. Among the most important fruits and vegetables that should be included in your diet are apples, tomatoes, melons, mangoes, dark leafy greens and onions. Apple and onion are rich in cancer-fighting flavonoids. According to a study conducted in Finland, people who consume more apples are 58 percent less likely to develop lung cancer than those who do not eat apples at all.

Try to add some tomato sauce in your cooking. Research shows that tomatoes, especially cooked ones, seem to exhibit protective properties against lung cancer.

Taking in high amounts of beta-carotenes can also lower the risk of lung cancer in smokers. Carotenoid compounds are found in certain produce like peaches, mangoes, melon, squash, sweet potatoes, pumpkins and green leafy vegetables. Beta-carotene supplement however should be avoided. A study conducted by a Finnish group indicated that an 18 percent rise in lung cancer cases was seen in heavy smokers who were taking beta-carotene supplements. Moreover, the National Cancer Institute researchers also stopped their study on the effects of vitamin A and beta-carotene after smokers who were taking the supplements showed 28 percent more lung cancer than those taking placebos.

Another important measure in the prevention of lung cancer is a routine medical check-up. This should also be accompanied with prophylactic medicines and supplements. An x-ray is necessary especially for those people who smoke and are at the age of 50 and above. A yearly chest x-ray will be especially beneficial for those people who are at high risk of developing lung cancer. A chest x-ray is a preventive measure done to screen for lung cancer. A routine chest x-ray will enable doctors to diagnose lung cancer early so that proper treatment procedures will be implemented.

Aspirin has been shown to ward off lung cancer especially when a dosage of 81 to 325 mg is taken daily. However, you should consult your doctor about the prophylactic advantage of taking aspirin since this form of therapy comes with known side effects.

Selenium that is often found in multivitamin and mineral supplements also shows properties that ward off cancer especially when taken over a long period of time. Some studies show that those who are taking selenium supplements exhibit about 46 percent lower lung cancer rate.

Vitamin C is also good in the prevention of lung cancer. Some studies suggest that people who regularly take 140 mg or more of vitamin C have lower risk of developing lung cancer than those who only get 90 mg or less of vitamin C dosage.

Lifestyle change is also vital in the prevention of lung cancer. People who smoke should consider quitting the habit. When a person stops smoking, his lung cancer risk is lowered by almost half in 10 years.

Finally, the second most common cause of lung cancer is exposure to radon, a colorless gas found in the ground. Test your home for any presence of radon. You can either buy a do-it yourself kit to check for radon which is available in your home supply stores or you can hire a professional to do it for you.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Lung Cancer

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell

Michael Russell - EzineArticles Expert Author

Skin Cancer

About Skin Cancer

Author: guest
Whenever we hear the word ‘cancer’ we are apt to panic. The term itself has become an umbrella for many different forms of the disease including skin cancer.


Skin cancer is a form of caner that affects the skin. There are several different types of skin cancer and some forms are more dangerous than others.

The two most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Both of these types of skin cancer can be serious in terms of changing the appearance of the skin affected, but they are not likely to spread to any surrounding tissue in the body.

Another type of skin cancer that is considered more serious is malignant melanoma. In terms of occurrence, this type of skin cancer is rarer than the others. However when it does occur early treatment is mandatory to ensure the greatest chance of survival.

Skin cancer has become much more common in recent years. This is mainly due to the fact that medical research has indicated that exposure to the damaging rays of the sun can increase a person’s chances of getting the disease, considerably.

Before the advent of all of the sun screens that offer UV protection, many people would sit in the sun for hours. Sun bathing was very popular and people would sit exposed to the sun rays oblivious to the fact that they might be setting themselves up for a case of skin cancer later in life.

Research now suggests that each time a person receives sunburn or even a dark suntan they are increasing their risk of developing skin cancer by 50%. This is troubling to people who enjoyed basking in the sun when they were young.

There are some things that a person can do to treat skin cancer early. One is to be aware of any and all markings on your body. This means regularly checking your skin, including your back, for any new growths or changes in moles. If you notice any ulcers on the skin that do not heal or any discoloration of the skin it’s wise to seek out a professional opinion.

In the case of basal cell carcinoma, the skin cancer will appear as a raised bump on the skin. Although not reddish in color, in some cases you will be able to see blood vessels within the growth. If you are suffering from squamous cell carcinoma than the growth will be reddish in color; it may also be in the form of an ulcer which doesn’t heal.

The most serious form of skin cancer, malignant melanoma, has a brownish or black color to them. Quite often they appear and you might consider it to be a new mole. It’s important to realize that new moles do not grow on adults and if you notice a new growth that is dark in color it is most likely skin cancer.

Another indication that you have this most serious form of skin cancer is that an existing mole has changed. The shape of color of it may be different and in this case it’s important that you seek out medical treatment as soon as possible.

The minor forms of skin cancer normally require treatment by surgery. The affected area is removed during a surgical procedure. If you have a minor skin cancer your oncologist will explain the procedures and the risks involved to you.

If the skin cancer has gone untreated or you are suffering from malignant melanoma, the treatment is significantly different. Skin cancer in this situation may have spread to surrounding organs or into the lymphatic system.

Your oncologist is the person who is best qualified to explain and discuss all treatment options with you.

About Author

Claire Quaty : Read more of his work at: http://www.tskin.com

Article Source: http://www.1888articles.com/author-guest-6.html





Skin Cancer Symptoms + Treatments

Author: Chris Chenoweth
Learn the symptoms and treatments for skin cancer.



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 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 .

Article Source: http://www.1888articles.com/author-chris-chenoweth-738.html

Breast Cancer

You Can Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer...

Author: guest
We hear it all the time? lose weight for your health. Few people however, realize the extent to which this is critical to their physical well-being and ultimately their life expectancy.

In January 2003, the Journal of the American Medical Association featured a study finding that obesity appears to lessen life expectancy, especially among young adults. The researchers compared Body-Mass Index (BMI) to longevity and found a correlation between premature death and higher BMIs. For example, a 20-year-old white male, 5'10" weighing 288 pounds with a BMI of greater than 40 was estimated to lose 13 years of his life as a result of obesity. Jamie McManus, M.D., F.A.A.F.P. and author of "Your Personal Guide to Wellness" notes that while this study referenced extreme levels of obesity, there are still millions of overweight people in developed countries with a life expectancy rate that is three to five years less than their healthy-weight counterparts. She also estimates that there are 600,000 obesity related deaths each year in America.

Just how does obesity shorten our lifespan? The answer to this question is complex, yet there is a clear link between obesity and the development of cancer. An extensive study conducted by the American Cancer Institute involving 750,000 people showed that obesity significantly increased the risk of cancer developing in the following organs: breast, colon, ovaries, uterus, pancreas, kidneys and gallbladder.

Michael Thun, MD, vice-president of epidemiology and surveillance research for the American Cancer Society (ACS) says one reason obesity may raise cancer risk is because fat cells produce a form of estrogen called estradiol that promotes rapid division of cells, increasing chances of a random genetic error while cells are replicating, which can lead to cancer. In addition, fat centered around the abdomen may increase insulin and insulin-like growth factors in the blood, which may increase cancer risk.

"Women who are obese after menopause have a 50% higher relative risk of breast cancer," notes Thun, "and obese men have a 40% higher relative risk of colon cancer?. Gallbladder and endometrial cancer risks are five times higher for obese individuals".There is evidence that cancer rates in developed countries are increasing at 5 to 15 times faster than developing countries. A major contributor to this alarming reality has proven to be diet. In populations where the diet consists mostly of fresh fruit and vegetables and whole grains in contrast to the typical Western diet of fatty meats, refined flours, oils and sugars ? the risk of cancer is much lower.

The interaction of diet and the development of cancer is an active field of research and Dr David Heber, M.D., Ph.D. and author of "What Color is Your Diet", says "It appears that diet has its most significant effects after the cancer has already formed, acting to inhibit or stimulate the growth of that cancer". At the risk of oversimplifying a complex set of interactions, the typical Western diet that leads to obesity may actually act to stimulate the growth of cancer cells.It is never too late to improve your health through healthful eating and adopting a more health-giving lifestyle. Here are simple steps to follow which can make an immediate improvement to your health and vitality. Please check this web site for more information -> http://treat-breast-cancer.info/

1. Check your Body Mass Index (BMI) to determine if weight has become health risk. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 60% of Americans are overweight, defined as having a BMI (a ratio of height to weight) over 25. Of those, nearly half (27%) qualify as obese, with a body mass index of 30 or more. In 1980, just 15% of Americans were considered obese.

2. Match your diet to your body's requirements. If you eat and drink more calories than your body requires you will put on weight. Learn to control calories and portion sizes, make recipes leaner, and eat infrequently from fast food restaurants. Also learn how to snack with healthful choices.

3. Color your diet with a large variety of colorful, cancer-fighting fruit and vegetables. There are seven different color ranges of both fruit and vegetables and by choosing between 5 to 9 daily serves from a wide range of fruit and vegetables, we are extending our consumption of cancer (and other disease) fighting nutrients.

4. Eat lean protein with every meal. Protein provides a powerful signal to the brain providing a longer sense of fullness. The right source of protein is essential to controlling your hunger with fewer calories and necessary to maintain your lean muscle mass. Choices of protein should be flavored soy shakes with fruit; the white meat of chicken and turkey, seafood such as shrimps, prawns scallops and lobster and ocean fish or vegetarians may prefer soy based meat substitutes.

5. Rev up your metabolism with activity. If you want to enjoy a lifetime of well-being, exercise is a key ingredient. Colleen Doyle, MS, RD, director of nutrition and physical activity for the American Cancer Society (ACS), says adults should do something for 30 minutes each day that takes as much effort as a brisk walk. Children should be active for an hour each day. We are more likely to develop habits around things we enjoy, so seek activities which you enjoy doing. It is also helpful to build physical activity into your daily routine: use the stairs instead of the escalator or lift at work, park your car in the parking bay furthest from the super market and don't use the remote control to change TV channels.

6. Get support to ensure you develop a healthful eating plan and reach your goal weight. Whilst a small percentage of people possess the discipline to lose weight, many obese people have developed strong thoughts and habits concerning the food they eat. In order to establish new habits, most people respond well to some form of consistent encouragement and coaching. A study, "Effects of Internet Behavioral Counseling on Weight Loss in Adults at Risk of Type 2 Diabetes" shows that participants who had the support of weight loss coaching lost more weight than those who didn't. The study concluded that the support of a weight loss coach can significantly improve weight loss results.

Being overweight or obese has been identified next to smoking, as the most preventable major risk to developing cancer. Even small weight losses have been shown to have beneficial health effects. So it's never to late to start and you can never be too young or too old to be concerned about your health and do something about achieving a more healthy weight.

About Author

Keith Londrie II is a recognized expert with body fat and obesity. Please stop by his web site to learn more about
breast cancer. http://treat-breast-cancer.info/






Understanding Breast Cancer

Author: Ann anderson
Cancer begins in cells, the building blocks that make up tissues. Tissues make up the organs of the body. The nipple is in the center of a dark area of skin called the areola. Fat fills the spaces between the lobules and ducts


Cancer begins in cells, the building blocks that make up tissues. Tissues make up the organs of the body.

The nipple is in the center of a dark area of skin called the areola. Fat fills the spaces between the lobules and ducts.

Normally, cells grow and divide to form new cells as the body needs them. When cells grow old, they die, and new cells take their place.

Sometimes, this orderly process goes wrong. New cells form when the body does not need them, and old cells do not die when they should. These extra cells can form a mass of tissue called a growth or tumor.

Tumors can be benign or malignant:

Benign tumors are not cancer:

Benign tumors are rarely life-threatening.
Generally, benign tumors can be removed. They usually do not grow back.
Cells from benign tumors do not invade the tissues around them.
Cells from benign tumors do not spread to other parts of the body.
· Malignant tumors are cancer:

Malignant tumors are generally more serious than benign tumors. They may be life-threatening.
Malignant tumors often can be removed. But sometimes they grow back.
Cells from malignant tumors can invade and damage nearby tissues and organs.
Cells from malignant tumors can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body. Cancer cells spread by breaking away from the original (primary) tumor and entering the bloodstream or lymphatic system. The cells invade other organs and form new tumors that damage these organs. The spread of cancer is called metastasis.

About Author

Get more information when you vistit the site http://www.tagate.com
Regards Ann

Article Source: http://www.1888articles.com/author-ann-anderson-649.html






Antiperspirants And Breast Cancer

Author: guest
Most underarm antiperspirants contain as the active ingredient, Aluminium Chlorohydrate, as you will probably remember there has been controversy about Aluminium.

Most underarm antiperspirants contain as the active ingredient, Aluminium Chlorohydrate, as you will probably remember there has been controversy about Aluminium, since the 1950's when it was a popular metal used for making cooking pots, Saucepans and Fry Pans and that it could be one of the contributing factors to Alzheimer's, now we have another problem that could also be related to Aluminium, Breast Cancer.

Research shows that one of the leading causes of Breast Cancer could be the use of antiperspirants. The human body has a number of areas, that it uses to purge Toxins from the body, these are, behind the knees, behind the ears, the groin area, and the armpits. The toxins are purged from the body in the form of perspiration and antiperspirant as the name clearly suggests prevents you from perspiring, thereby inhibiting the body from purging Toxins from the armpit area.

These Toxin do not just disappear, Instead, the body deposits them in the Lymph Nodes below the arms, since it is unable to sweat them out. A concentration of Toxins then builds up in the areas such as the armpits, which can then lead to cell mutations, which is cancer.

It cannot be ignored, that nearly all Breast Cancer Tumors occur in the upper outer quadrant of the breast area, this is where the Lymph Nodes are located. Men are less likely (but not totally exempt) to develop breast cancer prompted by the use of antiperspirants, because the antiperspirant is more likely to be caught in the armpit hair, rather than directly applied to the skin, but ladies, who shave their armpits, increase the risk by causing imperceptable nicks in the skin, which allow the chemicals to enter easily into the body through the armpits.

This article is aimed mainly at ladies, but please be aware that there are a few antiperspirants on the market that are made from natural products, but basically they would still trap the Toxins in the same areas. The best solution is to use deodorants, rather than antiperspirants, also please remember that the Eight Essential Sugars in Glyconutrients can also help to fight off Toxins.

There is a lot of controversy about this article, the medical profession scoff at the idea, and so do big business, but then again there are huge numbers of people that scoff at the problems associated with Fluoride in drinking water. You can make up your own mind on whether there is someting in this article or not, I know that if I was a lady, I would keep clear of Antiperspirants. I realise that Doctors everywhere, do a marvelous job, and they are appreciated, but they are reluctant to look at the bigger picture, also please remember that the fourth largest killer of people in the western world is prescription drugs.

About Author

This article and many more by Keith Londrie II can be found on his web site at http://treat-breast-cancer.info/
Visit today for more information on breast cancer.
Keith E. Londrie II
infoserve @ mchsi.com
http://treat-breast-cancer.info/

Keith Londrie II is a renowned specialist in breast cancer and treatments. He provides information on the subject matter at his web site at http://treat-breast-cancer.info/ - Visit to get your questions answered now.

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Mesothelioma Cancer

About Mesothelioma, Its Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Author: abhinav
About Mesothelioma, Its Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

About Mesothelioma -
Mesothelioma (cancer of the mesothelium) is a disease in which cells of the mesothelium become abnormal and divide without control or order. They can invade and damage nearby tissues and organs. Cancer cells can also metastasize (spread) from their original site to other parts of the body. Most cases of mesothelioma begin in the pleura or peritoneum.

What is the mesothelium?
The mesothelium is a membrane that covers and protects most of the internal organs of the body. It is composed of two layers of cells: One layer immediately surrounds the organ; the other forms a sac around it. The mesothelium produces a lubricating fluid that is released between these layers, allowing moving organs (such as the beating heart and the expanding and contracting lungs) to glide easily against adjacent structures.

How common is mesothelioma?
Although reported incidence rates have increased in the past 20 years, mesothelioma is still a relatively rare cancer. About 2,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed in the United States each year. Mesothelioma occurs more often in men than in women and risk increases with age, but this disease can appear in either men or women at any age.

Mesothelioma Symptoms
Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear until 30 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. Shortness of breath and pain in the chest due to an accumulation of fluid in the pleura are often symptoms of pleural mesothelioma. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include weight loss and abdominal pain and swelling due to a buildup of fluid in the abdomen. Other symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma may include bowel obstruction, blood clotting abnormalities, anemia, and fever. If the cancer has spread beyond the mesothelium to other parts of the body, symptoms may include pain, trouble swallowing, or swelling of the neck or face.
These symptoms may be caused by mesothelioma or by other, less serious conditions. It is important to see a doctor about any of these symptoms. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis.

The early symptoms of mesothelioma are often ignored, because they may be caused by a variety of ailments. These symptoms include:

pain in the lower back or at the side of the chest
shortness of breath
difficulty swallowing
cough
fever
fatigue
abdominal pain, weight loss , and nausea and vomiting (symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma)

Causes of Mesothelioma -
The primary risk factor for developing mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. In the past, asbestos was used as a very effective type of insulation. The use of this material, however, has been declining since the link between asbestos and mesothelioma has become known. It is thought that when the fibers of asbestos are inhaled, some of them reach the ends of the small airways and penetrate into the pleural lining. There the fibers may directly harm mesothelial cells and eventually cause mesothelioma. If the fibers are swallowed, they can reach the abdominal cavity, where they can contribute to the formation of peritoneal mesothelioma.
Exposure to certain types of radiation as well as to a chemical related to asbestos known as zeolite has also been related to incidences of mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Treatment -

Treatment for mesothelioma depends on the location of the cancer, the stage of the disease, and the patient-s age and general health. Standard treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Sometimes, these treatments are combined. Surgery is a common treatment for mesothelioma. The doctor may remove part of the lining of the chest or abdomen and some of the tissue around it. For cancer of the pleura (pleural mesothelioma), a lung may be removed in an operation called a pneumonectomy. Sometimes part of the diaphragm, the muscle below the lungs that helps with breathing, is also removed.

About Author

About The Author - Mesothelioma Cancer Support - If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or have been affected by exposure to benzene, beryllium, manganese, asbestos, and other toxic substances, their trial lawyers can help. Finding the right legal representation is likely weighing heavily on your mind. Paul, Hanley & Harley LLP, that fight to win for victims of mesothelioma cancer.
http://www.mesothelioma-cancer-support.com


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Mesothelioma - The Simple Facts

By Robert Benjamin Platinum Quality Author

What is Mesothelioma: Mesotheliomas form a range of tumors that usually arise in the pleura or in the abdominal cavity. Malignant tumors arising within the pleura are strongly associated with prior asbestos exposure in up to 92% of cases. The time period from initial exposure to development of the cancer may range from 25-45 years and the lifetime risk of developing mesothelioma following heavy exposure ranges from 7-10%. It spreads through the pleural space, directly invading other thoracic structures associated with pleural effusion. The underlying lung is usually encased within the tumor.

The abdominal peritoneal variant is also related to asbestos exposure and 50% of these patients may have pulmonary fibrosis. Although 50% of these cases may be limited to the abdominal cavity, intestinal obstruction is common frequently leading to death. The classic histopathology of the mesothelioma is a biphasic tumor with both an epithelioid and sarcomatoid or spindle cell component. From this description, it can be readily appreciated how the diagnosis may be very difficult to confirm.

Mesothelioma Symptoms: Many of the early symptoms of mesothelioma are often over looked due there similarity to symptoms of less serious diseases. A lot of patients do not show any signs of sickness in the beginning stages of the disease. The most common symptoms of mesothelioma include pleuritic pain, lasting cough, weakness, and weight loss. Most early symptoms will not be attributed to mesothelioma unless the patient is examined by a knowledgeable doctor who orders the appropriate tests. Test for mesothelioma, may include CT scans, x-rays, or MRI. .

What Jobs Are Associated With Mesothelioma: Asbestos was used in a lot of occupations. A large amount of former military personnel, came into contact with asbestos during their service. Large amounts of asbestos were used in shipbuilding and construction prior to the mid -1970's. Anyone involved with those industries is at a higher risk for developing an asbestos related disease, including mesothelioma. The typical exposure period is lengthy, but some persons with short but intense exposures develop mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma can also occur from non-occupational exposure, as evidenced by manifestation of the disease in women whose exposure came from washing the clothing of men who worked with asbestos. A unique feature of asbestos-related injuries is the long latency period between exposure to asbestos and the onset of the injury or disease. For mesotheliomas, the latency period is between 15 and 50 years, or more. That means that a person could have been exposed to asbestos 50 years ago, and develop mesothelioma today. The average mesothelioma latency period is approximately 35 - 40 years. On average 3,100 cases per year of malignant mesothelioma are being reported in the United States, and it appears to be rising. The disease is three times more common in males than in females. In men, the occurrence of mesothelioma is ten times higher in men between the ages of 60-72 as compared to men between the ages of 30-42. Job site exposure to asbestos over the past fifty years in the United States is calculated to have occurred in over 8 million people.

Why did we use so much Asbestos: Asbestos is a great material for the manufacturing and construction industry. It does not burn and transmits heat very poorly, making it a great insulator against heat. It is a poor conductor of electricity and is also used as an insulator against electricity. It resists rust and can be used in exterior applications. Asbestos is a strong material and yet flexible. It has the soft and pliable qualities of cloth making it useful in protective clothing. Asbestos can be applied to a product by spraying painting it on or it can be added to a product such as concrete.



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Easy To Avoid Mesothelioma

By Janie Jenkins Platinum Quality Author

It is known that mesothelioma is caused by breathing asbestos fibers into the lungs. When this happens, the lungs or the abdomen may be affected by the disease. Because asbestos is so strongly linked to mesothelioma, regulations have been created to set limits on the amount of exposure to asbestos a worker can have in a workplace.

People who must work around asbestos because of the nature of their work must wear protective clothing. Occasionally a family member may develop mesothelioma as a result of breathing the fibers that may remain on the clothing when the worker returns home from work. to avoid this, if you work around asbestos it would be wise to have a clean change of clothes to wear home. Never allow the fibers to get in your car.

It has also been known to occur that people working around asbestos do not acquire the disease. Many people have resilient genes that seem to fend off diseases such as mesothelioma. As we never know what our body can handle or not handle regarding health issues it is important to take precautions as if . . .

When working around asbestos treat yourself with protection as if your child's life depends on it. Refuse to take chances knowing you may carry home the very fiber that your child or spouse may breathe causing suffering as well as opening the door to the possibility of an early disease related death.

Watch for signs of mesothelioma to get early treatment. Symptoms may include weight loss and abdominal pain. Other signs the doctor will watch for are bowel obstruction, blood clotting, anemia and fever. As these symptoms can represent other illnesses, be sure to have your doctor make the diagnosis.

Janie Jenkins is the "Easy To Do" instruction expert. Discover how easy it is to do what seemed like your most complicated ambition. Mesothelioma and Health

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Prostate Cancer

Are Black Men Really At More Risk From Prostate Cancer Than White Men?
By Donald Saunders

A quick look at any of the literature will tell you that black men are more likely to die from prostate cancer than white men and most statistics agree that the risk for African Americans is about two and a half times that of white Americans. But are these statistics misleading?

It's well known that there are variations in disease rates between different countries and that, for example, America has the highest rate of obesity of any country and Japan the lowest. But this has very little to do with the passport you hold or the color of your skin and a great deal to with your diet. So why is it that African Americans and white Americans differ so widely when it comes to prostate cancer deaths since they are both members of a common society?

Well, the answer might just lie in a study conducted recently involving a mixed race group of 337 men between the ages of 40 and 75 from North Carolina who were diagnosed between 2001 and 2004 with prostate cancer.

The study looked at a variety of factors including family history, screening history, symptoms, treatment, the presence of other medical problems, access to medical care, the men's relationships with their doctors, their attitudes towards health care and health care providers, employment, income and whether or not the men carried health insurance.

The study found that more than half of the black men earned under $40,000 a year compared to less than a quarter of white men who fell into this income group. The study also found that black men were more likely to have blue-collar jobs, to be educated to a lower standard, to have additional medical conditions and to be unemployed as the result of illness or disability.

The study also found that only three percent of white men had no medical insurance, compared to eight percent of black men and that one-third of white men has some form of supplemental Medicare coverage, compared to seventeen percent of black men.

Perhaps most interestingly the study reported that both black men and white men were equally well informed about the risks posed by prostrate cancer and the need for treatment, but the black men demonstrated a greater sense of responsibility for their own health and were less likely to trust their doctors. Indeed many were suspicious of their doctors and felt that their decisions were more likely to be based on the cost of treatment, rather than on the needs of the patient.

On the important question of screening for the early detection of prostate cancer, black men were less likely to have regular check-ups, digital rectal examinations or PSA blood tests.

Putting all of the data together, it became clear that a significant different between the two groups lay in the lack of early detection in the case of black men resulting in no small part from the fact that they did not have as well established relationships with their doctors, had poor access to affordable and convenient care and lacked the necessary medical insurance.

So what does this mean in terms of the statistical difference when it comes to prostate cancer deaths between African Americans and white Americans? Well, although it's difficult to put numbers to this study and further studies would be necessary to be certain, it would appear that much of the difference does not result from the fact that black men are more likely to contract prostate cancer but simply from the fact that they are more likely to die from prostate cancer because of its late detection.

Clearly the answer doesn't lie in the disease itself but in society's provision of healthcare.

ProstateCancerExplained.com provides information on a wide range of topics including the prostate gland, an enlarged prostate, prostatitis, prostate surgery and finding a cure for prostate cancer.

Facts and Alternatives Regarding Treatments for Prostate Cancer
By Groshan Fabiola

Patients who suffer from prostate cancer have many alternatives to treat their affection but they should know all the opinions and investigate therapies before they choose the treatment that suits them. In addition to this, a patient who decides to use any alternative of complementary approaches needs to take into consideration the doctor's advice and start a treatment in a short time.

First of all, a person who suffer from prostate cancer should ask for a second opinion, inform himself from books or internet about his condition and also take along detailed list of questions and record the answers. Moreover, the patient shoud be aware of the doctor's experience in treating prostate cancer and also that the doctors in charge should treat the whole patient, not just the prostate and not in the last place the family or a friend support may help a lot.

Furthermore, choosing a treatment for prostate cancer can be a hard task for the patient and for the doctors as well. The treatments are divided in certain groups and each procedure is performed by a specialist. For instance, radiation oncologists in radiation, urologists usually specialize in surgery and cryoablation, both internal and external and usually used alone or in combination. Each type of treatment seem to bring successfully results, including no immediate treatment other than careful observation for elder men.

On the other hand, these types of treatments like surgery, cryoablation and radiation can have side effects, such as impotence and incontinence. Moreover, other side effects are loss of the sex drive, weight gain and also by performing hormonal therapy, the amount of testosterone in the bloodstream is reduced and thereby deprives a prostate tumor of a necessary stimulus, used to extend life and delay the disease to progress.

Moreover, many clinical trials are testing new treatments for prostate cancer and patients can choose the right treatment depending on the type of cancer that they have. So, some of the experimental treatments which seem to be quite effective are: chemotherapy which uses new drugs in order to help men with advanced prostate cancer, immunotherapy which helps the body to fight against cancer and also neoadjuvant hormonal therapy that has the role in reducing the prostate tumor in order to increase success rates of surgery or radiation.

All in all, people who suffer from prostate should weight carefully the options and choose the right procedure in a short time. Moreover, immunotherapies may help men with late-stage cancer and also some of these therapies can be used to prevent recurrence of cancer following surgery or radiation.

For more information about prostate cancer treatment and about prostate please review this web site http://www.prostate-cancer-center.com

Nurse's Report - What You Need To Know About Prostate Cancer And Its Treatment
By Helen Hecker

Like other cancers, the cause of prostate cancer is not known; it appears to be more common in African American men and men with a family history of the disease. About one man in six will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime, but only one man in 34 will die of the disease.

The prostate gland is located directly beneath the bladder and in front of the rectum. The prostate gland is part of the male reproductive system. It's estimated that approximately 234,460 men in the U.S. will be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year, and approximately 27,350 will die of the disease. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among men in the U.S.

Having one or more cancer symptoms does not necessarily mean that you have prostate cancer. Weak or interrupted flow of urine and painful or burning urination can be symptoms to watch out for. One symptom is a need to urinate frequently, especially at night.

There are several symptoms to be aware of. One of the most common symptoms is the inability to urinate at all. Other symptoms might include unintentional weight loss and lethargy.

A bone scan can indicate whether the cancer has spread or not. A PSA test with a high level can also be from a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. There is a newer test called AMACR that is more sensitive than the PSA test for determining the presence of prostate cancer.

Your doctor may use either one or two of the most common tests for prostate cancer detection. A urinalysis may indicate if there is blood in the urine. When a digital rectal exam is performed it often reveals an enlarged prostate with a hard, irregular surface.

Besides hormonal drugs, hormone manipulation may also be done by surgically removing the testes. The approaches to treatment include: ever watchful waiting to see whether the cancer is growing slowly and not causing any symptoms. Thoroughly discuss your treatment options and concerns with your doctor and other health professionals; it never hurts to get a second or even third opinion or more if necessary.

Be aware that some men chose natural treatment options and forgo any surgery, radiation or chemotherapy. Surgery is usually only recommended after thorough evaluation and discussion of all available treatment options. Hormone manipulation is mainly used as a treatment to relieve symptoms in men whose cancer has spread.

Medicines can be used to adjust the levels of testosterone; called hormonal manipulation. Radiation therapy to the prostate gland is either external or internal, both of which use high-energy rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Prostate cancer that has spread (metastasized) may be treated conventionally with drugs to reduce testosterone levels, surgery to remove the testes, chemotherapy or nothing at all.

Medications can have many side effects, including hot flashes and loss of sexual desire. Urinary incontinence can be a possible complication of surgery. Whether radiation is as good as removal of the prostate is debatable and the decision about which to choose, if any, can be difficult.

Surgery, called a radical prostatectomy, removes the entire prostate gland and some of the surrounding tissues. An oncology specialist will usually recommend treating with a single drug or a combination of drugs.

Just about all men with prostate cancer survive at least five years after their diagnosis, 93% survive at least 10 years, and 67% survive more than 15 years. If you do choose invasive conventional treatment, you can always change your diet and do non-invasive natural treatments too. With the advent of PSA testing, most prostate cancers are now found before they cause any symptoms.

For more information on prostate cancer treatments and prostate cancer symptoms go to http://www.BestProstateHealthTips.com Helen Hecker R.N.'s website specializing in prostate and prostate cancer tips, advice and resources, including information on prostate tests and natural prostate cancer treatments

Prostate Cancer Treatments Made Easy
By Helen Hecker

The prostate gland is part of the male reproductive system. Prostate cancer is a malignant tumor of the prostate gland. The prostate gland is located directly beneath the bladder and in front of the rectum.

Many men, especially those later in life have made the decision with their doctors to simply watch and wait. The prostate is a small, walnut-sized structure that makes up part of a man's reproductive system; it wraps around the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. Prostate cancer is the third most common cause of death from cancer in men of all ages and is the most common cause of death from cancer in men over 75 years old.

One of the most common symptoms is the inability to urinate at all. Some men will experience symptoms that might indicate the presence of prostate cancer. Having one or more cancer symptoms does not necessarily mean that you have prostate cancer.

Weak or interrupted flow of urine and painful or burning urination can be symptoms to watch out for. Other symptoms might include unintentional weight loss and lethargy. If you have one or more prostate cancer symptoms, you should see a qualified doctor as soon as possible.

There is a newer test called AMACR that is more sensitive than the PSA test for determining the presence of prostate cancer. A bone scan can indicate whether the cancer has spread or not. When a digital rectal exam is performed it often reveals an enlarged prostate with a hard, irregular surface.

Another test usually used when prostate cancer symptoms are present is the digital rectal exam (DRE) performed by the doctor. There are several potential downsides to PSA testing; for example a high PSA does not always mean a patient has prostate cancer. A number of tests may be done to confirm a diagnosis of prostate cancer.

Since prostate tumors require testosterone to grow, reducing the testosterone level is used to prevent further growth and spread of the cancer. Thoroughly discuss your treatment options and concerns with your doctor and other health professionals; it never hurts to get a second or even third opinion or more if necessary. The conventional treatment of prostate cancer is often controversial.

If chemotherapy is decided upon after the first round of chemotherapy, most men receive further doses on an outpatient basis at a clinic or physician's office. Surgery, radiation therapy, and hormonal therapy can interfere with libido on a temporary or permanent basis. Hormone manipulation is mainly used as a treatment to relieve symptoms in men whose cancer has spread.

Recent improvements in surgical procedures have made complications occur less often. Whether radiation is as good as removing the prostate is debatable and the decision about which to choose, if any, can be difficult. Be aware that some men chose natural treatment options and forgo any surgery, radiation or chemotherapy.

Besides hormonal drugs, hormone manipulation may also be done by surgically removing the testes. Surgery is usually only recommended after thorough evaluation and discussion of all available treatment options. In the early stages, surgery and radiation may be used to remove or attempt to kill the cancer cells or shrink the tumor.

Anyone considering surgery should be aware of the benefits, risks and the extent of the procedure. Chemotherapy medications are often used to treat prostate cancers that are resistant to hormonal treatments.

If you do choose invasive conventional treatment, you can always change your diet and do non-invasive natural treatments too. As new research comes out adjust your treatment options accordingly. If you haven't been diagnosed but are concerned about symptoms you should call for an appointment to see your doctor; and if you're a man older than 50 who has never been screened for prostate cancer (by rectal exam and/or PSA level determination) or not had a regular annual exam, or have had a family history of prostate cancer, make an appointment soon.

For more information on prostate cancer treatments and prostate cancer symptoms go to http://www.BestProstateHealthTips.com Helen Hecker R.N.'s website specializing in prostate and prostate cancer tips, advice and resources, including information on prostate tests and natural prostate cancer treatments

Prolong Your Life -- Get Checked For Prostate Cancer Now
By Helen Hecker

Men, who are younger than 40, are rarely ever diagnosed with prostate cancer. The male hormone testosterone contributes to the growth of cancer. About 80 percent of men who reach the age of 80 have prostate cancer. It's estimated that approximately 234,460 men in the U.S. will be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year, and approximately 27,350 will die of the disease.

Prostate cancer is deadly but can be cured if it's caught early enough. If you have prostate cancer, are concerned about getting it, or if you're looking out for the health of someone you love, this article can help.

Because prostate cancer symptoms can mimic other diseases or disorders, men who experience any of these symptoms should undergo a thorough work-up to determine the underlying cause of the symptoms. There are several symptoms to be aware of. Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease are bone pain or tenderness, and abdominal pain.

If cancer is caught at its earliest stages, most men will not experience any symptoms. Blood in the urine or semen and frequent pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, or upper thighs are often symptoms of cancer. Weak or interrupted flow of urine and painful or burning urination can be symptoms to watch out for.

There is a newer test called AMACR that is more sensitive than the PSA test for determining the presence of prostate cancer. The decision about whether to pursue a PSA test should be based on a discussion between you and your doctor. One downside to PSA testing is that health care providers are detecting and treating some very early-stage prostate cancers that may never have caused the patient any harm.

There are several potential downsides to PSA testing; for example a high PSA does not always mean a patient has prostate cancer. The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test measures the PSA enzyme in your blood for abnormalities. A bone scan can indicate whether the cancer has spread or not.

Thoroughly discuss your treatment options and concerns with your doctor and other health professionals; it never hurts to get a second or even third opinion or more if necessary. If chemotherapy is decided upon after the first round of chemotherapy, most men receive further doses on an outpatient basis at a clinic or physician's office. Surgery is usually only recommended after thorough evaluation and discussion of all available treatment options.

Chemotherapy medications are often used to treat prostate cancers that are resistant to hormonal treatments. Surgery, radiation, hormonal therapy and chemotherapy all have significant side effects; know fully what they are before you proceed. Impotence is a potential complication after the prostatectomy or after radiation therapy.

Many men simply want the best treatment they can get but what's important is picking the best treatment for you. The approaches to treatment include: ever watchful waiting to see whether the cancer is growing slowly and not causing any symptoms. Prostate cancer that has spread (metastasized) may be treated conventionally with drugs to reduce testosterone levels, surgery to remove the testes, chemotherapy or nothing at all.

Medicines can be used to adjust the levels of testosterone; called hormonal manipulation. Radiation therapy is used primarily to treat prostate cancers classified as stages A, B, or C. The conventional treatment of prostate cancer is often controversial.

In the early stages, surgery and radiation may be used to remove or attempt to kill the cancer cells or shrink the tumor. Anyone considering surgery should be aware of the benefits, risks and the extent of the procedure.

It's important to get as informed as possible and read all the newest books, ebooks and research available. Make sure to read everything you can get your hands on and mull it all over. Consider sites, such as this one, just a starting point where you can begin to learn about prostate cancer.

For more information on prostate cancer treatments and prostate cancer symptoms go to http://www.BestProstateHealthTips.com Helen Hecker R.N.'s website specializing in prostate and prostate cancer tips, advice and resources, including information on prostate tests and natural prostate cancer treatments

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