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| Breast Cancer Information |
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Can You Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer?
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. 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. You can check your BMI at the website below. 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 marketing 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. (c) Copyright by Kim Beardsmore Kim Beardsmore enjoys the flexibility of working from home. Are you interested in earning money from home? We're looking for individuals who have basic phone and internet skills to join our team of work-at-home-ers. If you're serious about earning money from home and are willing to work (this isn't 'get rich quick'), then we'd like to help you grow a profitable business. We offer complete training, online and offline resources and a partnership for success. http://free2liv.com/?refid=EA-567883373
MORE RESOURCES: Breastfeeding for at least six months might lower the risk of developing so-called "triple negative" breast cancer, an aggressive form of the disease that is more common in black and younger women, according to a study published on Monday in the journal Cancer, the Seattle Post-Intelligencer reports (Paulson, Seattle Post-Intelligencer, 8/24). A new promising enzyme target for a specific type of breast cancer, Brk, has been identified in research published on August 21, 2008 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS.) In a specific subset of breast cancer patients, the tumor cells produce high levels of the protein ErbB2 (also called HER2) which pushes the cells to proliferate without limit, a characteristic common of all cancers. The American Medical Student Association (AMSA), the nation's oldest and largest, independent association for physicians-in-training, announces the commencement of AMSA Academy, a training ground for physician leaders. Established by students, for students, AMSA Academy takes medical students through the core competencies of leadership and project implementation, while building on key principles of important topics in medicine. There are currently 22 programs offered. Happiness and optimism may play a role against breast cancer while adverse life events can increase the risk of developing the disease, according to a study by Professor Ronit Peled, at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev in Israel. An article on the study titled "Breast Cancer, Psychological Distress and Life Events among Young Women," was just published in the British journal BMC Cancer (8:245, August 2008). Feelings of happiness and optimism play a positive role against breast cancer. Research published in the open access journal BMC Cancer suggests that while staying positive has a protective role, adverse life events such as the loss of a parent or close relative, divorce or the loss of a spouse can increase a woman's risk of developing the disease. New research may explain why breast cancer tends to be more aggressive in women with denser breast tissue. Breast cancer cells grown in dense, rigid surroundings step up their invasive activities, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center investigators report in the Sept. 9 issue of Current Biology. The findings suggest a cellular mechanism for the correlation between human breast tissue density and tumor aggressiveness. Two independent research groups have found that simultaneous inhibition of two signaling pathways resulted in substantially enhanced antitumor effects in mouse models of prostate and breast cancer. In an accompany commentary, Steven Grant, at Virginia Commonwealth University Health Science Center, Richmond, discusses the clinical importance of these studies and highlights some of the questions that still need to be answered. A new study published on bmj.com argues that for older women, health related quality of life can be improved by hormone replacement therapy (HRT). The authors recommend that HRT guidelines should be revised with this most current evidence taken into consideration. Earlier studies have shown that HRT has the potential for general improvements in quality of life measures - how patients feel or function. Duke University chemists have patented an efficient technique for synthesizing a marine algae extract in sufficient quantities to now test its ability to inhibit the growth of cancerous cells while leaving normal cells unaffected. The researchers also deduced that this molecule -- called largazole -- acts on cells through the same chemical mechanism as other anti-cancer compounds on the market or in clinical trials. Seeking to improve on nature, scientists used a spice-based compound as a starting point and developed synthetic molecules that, in lab settings, are able to kill cancer cells and stop the cells from spreading. The researchers are combining organic chemistry, computer-aided design and molecular biology techniques in developing and testing pharmaceutical compounds that can fight breast and prostate cancer cells. ImClone Systems Incorporated (NASDAQ: IMCL), a global leader in the development and commercialization of novel antibodies to treat cancer, today announced that the first patient has been treated in a global Phase 3 clinical trial of IMC-1121B, its anti-vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) IgG1 monoclonal antibody, in women with metastatic breast cancer. Advocates, including those for breast cancer patients, are concerned about their relationship with pharmaceutical company Genentech following Roche's bid for the company, the A decade-long Nebraska study that showed disparities in breast and cervical cancer screenings could have spurred changes that raised the percentage of women screened in the state. "Disparities in screening between racial and ethnic groups, even in a homogeneous state such as Nebraska, are a problem and by digging into some of the differences we were able to have an impact on breast and cervical cancer screening," said lead study author Shingairai Feresu, Ph.D. Women who survive breast cancer for at least five years after treatment have an 89% chance that they will not have a recurrence of the cancer after 10 years and an 81% chance after 15 years, according to a study published online Tuesday in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Research by scientists at the University of Sheffield suggests that the combination of zoledronic acid (a drug used to prevent bone loss) and chemotherapy agent doxorubicin could stop the growth of breast cancer tumours. Dr Alexis Willett, Policy Manager at Breakthrough Breast Cancer, says: "Breakthrough welcomes any research which investigates new uses for existing treatments to help benefit people with breast cancer. An article published in The Lancet Oncology reports that postmenopausal women with breast cancer who are on endocrine treatment are likely to experience arthralgia and arthritis (joint symptoms) if they previously have used hormone replacement therapy (HRT), received a hormone-receptor positive tumor diagnosis, undergone chemotherapy, received treatment with anastrozole versus tamoxifen, or been obese. Scientists in the UK and Finland have discovered that a new combination of the chemotherapy drug doxorubicin and the bone-protecting drug zoledronic acid, both of which are considerably cheaper than herceptin, stopped breast cancer tumors growing in mice. Experts suggest that since both drugs are already in use, and if the combination proves effective and safe in human clinical trials, it should not take as long for it to be available as a new treatment for patients. Breast cancer patients and their physicians may make more informed, long-term treatment decisions using risk assessment strategies to help determine probability of recurrence, a research team led by scientists at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center reported in the Aug. 12 online issue of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. Breast cancer patients and their physicians may make more informed, long-term treatment decisions using risk assessment strategies to help determine probability of recurrence, a research team led by scientists at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center reported in the Aug. 12 online issue of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. Famous names from the fashion, television, radio and music industries have come together to back Fashion Targets Breast Cancer® (FTBC) UK in an advertising campaign which subtly plays on the topic of celebrity charity endorsement. Natalie Imbruglia, Anna Friel, Alan Carr, Edith Bowman and Twiggy have been shot by acclaimed photographer Rankin wearing their FTBC T-shirts with pride for the campaign from leading charity Breakthrough Breast Cancer which aims to raise £1m. US researchers estimated that the risk of relapse for breast cancer patients who were cancer-free for five years after systemic therapy (chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or both, as well as surgery) was not negligible although it was probably lower than many people realized. Peregrine Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: PPHM) announced that patient screening and dosing has begun in a Phase II trial designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of bavituximab in combination with chemotherapy in patients with advanced breast cancer. American Airlines, the world's largest airline, and Susan G. Komen for the Cure®, the world's largest breast cancer organization, announced an expanded partnership with the unveiling of two specially co-branded aircraft, an American Airlines Boeing 757 and an American Eagle Embraer 145, each incorporating the renowned vivid pink-ribbon motif. Geron Corporation (Nasdaq: GERN) announced the enrollment of the first patient in a clinical trial of its telomerase inhibitor drug, GRN163L, in locally recurrent or metastatic breast cancer. The primary objective of the Phase I/II, dose escalation study is to determine the safety, maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and objective response rate of GRN163L when administered intravenously in combination with a paclitaxel/bevacizumab regimen in this patient population. A new discovery may lead to more effective screening and treatment for patients with a difficult to recognize syndrome characterized by tumor-like growths and a high risk of developing specific cancers. The research, published by Cell Press in the August 7 issue of the American Journal of Human Genetics, is the first in over thirteen years to identify an alternate susceptibility gene for Cowden syndrome (CS) and related disorders. |
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Breast Cancer Digest RELATED ARTICLES Finding the Spirit - Identifying the Enemy In the daily fight for survival our vision is blurred because our health is compromised. This is when the enemy attacks- we lose focus and become vulnerable. Breast Cancer Detection Unit for the Home Detecting Breast Cancer early is a key step in protecting yourself from the dire consequences and risk of breast cancer. There is now some new technology using Infrared to help you do self-examinations in the privacy of your own home. The Insidiousness of Breast Cancer and Its Current Treatment In our modern world, the benefits that today's manufacturing and agricultural activities have brought us is more than painfully offset by the damage to our personal health and wellness. During the course of our daily lives, we are continually exposed to common household products such as detergents, insulation, fabric treatments, flame retardants, cosmetics, paints, upholstery preservatives, and coatings for electronic equipment. Your Risk of Cancer Can Increase With Weight Gain! 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. A Tool for Early Breast Cancer Screening Who isn't familiar with the expression, "early detection is the best prevention?" We hear this term throughout the year and most everyone is familiar with this "catch phrase" as it relates to breast cancer. Obviously, a woman's chance for survival improves when a cancer is found early. Naural Self-Defense Against Breast Cancer - Learning to Cope Successfully with Organochlorine Pollut What are organochlorines?Organochlorines are chemicals found in some herbicides and pesticides, in chlorine bleach and most chemical disinfectants, and many plastics, especially PVC (polyvinylchloride).Organochlorines are implicated in causing and promoting breast cancer because they mutate genes and they cause breast cells to become more receptive to a cancer-promoting chemical called estradiol. Breast Cancer Awareness and Prevention Tips October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Men and women can take preventative steps for avoiding breast cancer and staying healthy. Screening For Breast Cancer With No Compression And No Radiation Who would have thought that a technology for detecting breast cancer used today actually had its' roots dating back to 480 B.C. Do You Know Some Nutrients Help Prevent Breast Cancer? Breast cancer today is one of the most threatening conditions that a woman might have. A woman's breast undergoes a lot of changes during her lifetime. Are Obese Women Getting Short-Changed By Chemotherapy Treatments? How much chemotherapy does an obese woman need? Typically an obese woman with breast cancer would receive reduced doses of chemotherapy as they battle breast cancer.Back in June of 2005, a study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine concluded that obese women should receive chemotherapy based on their actual weight, and not in reduced as amounts as it the standard practice. Fourteen Simple Things You Can Do To Reduce Your Risk for Breast Cancer 1. Increase your consumption of fresh, organic fruits and vegetables. Emotional Responses to Breast Cancer - Understanding the One You Love Being diagnosed with breast cancer is a life-changing event. A torrent of feelings wash over the survivor. Breast Cancer - 101 The cancer is a term for diseases in which abnormal cells divide uncontrollably invading near by tissue and spreading to other parts of the body via blood stream or lymphatic system.Similarly, in breast cancer, a single cell begins to divide and grow abnormally. Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging In Medical Therapy Digital technology now makes Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging available to all. There now is a completely safe test that can aid in diagnosis, treatment and monitoring with absolutely no risk or radiation exposure. Mammograms Are No Joke - They Can Save Lives! There are so many jokes about mammograms! Have you heard the one about the fridge door ?or the bookends ?or the garage floor? Thanks to all the jokes, "Mammogram" has become a household word, and it's not that I don't have a sense of humor, but as a mammography technologist, I've heard the jokes many times. I think the jokes are embarrassing for women and demeaning with regard to their physical bodies. Finding Your Spiritual Strength in the Midst of Your Emotional Turmoil There were so many emotions that I experienced in 2003 when the doctor confirmed I had Breast Cancer; I was overwhelmed. That was a point in my life that seemed to play out in slow motion. New Hope to Prevent Breast Cancer: What Every Woman Needs to Know In March, 2005, a major nutritional breakthrough in the fight against breast cancer was announced by U.S. Early Detection And Breast Cancer It is generally accepted that by the time a cancer is found by mammography or palpated during a clinical breast exam, the cancer has been growing for 8-10 years. What if we could have been alerted to the problem as it was developing, rather than wait till it is large enough to be seen by the naked eye? Would that be of interest to you?There exists a technology that can detect an issue YEARS before a tumor can be seen on X-ray or palpated during an exam. My First Thermographic Experience I had been a bit nervous all day wondering what my thermogram procedure would entail. Would I need to undress completely? Would I be given one of those paper gowns that opens in the front and barely covers me? Would there be any heat coming out of the camera? I had been avoiding a mammogram after reading the latest information about the risks associated with X-ray; knowing that I was potentially putting myself at greater risk by not taking charge of my health. New Advances In Early Breast Cancer Detection In November 2003, the American Cancer Society stated that breast cancer is the leading cause of death in women between the ages of 40 and 44. In the United States, there are approximately 200,000 new cases of breast cancer and more than 40,000 deaths; making the U.
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