The bladder cancer Guide

Top 7 Tips to Prevent Cancer

2007-12-13T00:47:00.000-08:00

A complex mix of factors related to environment, lifestyle, and heredity plays a role in the causation of cancer. For example, 80 percent of all cancers are related to the use of tobacco products, to what we eat and drink, and to our exposure to radiation, asbestos, and some of the other cancer-causing agents. There's not much you can do about your genes, but several other key risk factors are under your control. If you identify them and make the necessary changes in your lifestyle early enough, you can substantially decrease your chances of developing a malignancy. Here are some of the risk factors you can do something about:

1. Tobacco

Tobacco is the most preventable cause of mortality in this country. Regardless of whether you chew it, snuff it, smoke it, or inhale someone else's exhaust, tobacco is a killer. In the United States, it is responsible for 85 to 90 percent of all lung cancers, and for one-third of all deaths related to other cancers. The magnitude of the risk depends on the number and kind of cigarettes you have smoked and for how long. A pack-a-day smoker is ten times more vulnerable than a non-smoker. It is never too late to quit. After you do, your risk declines gradually each year.

2. Chronic alcohol abuse

This type of abuse can cause cancer of the liver, as well as of the mouth, throat, and larynx, especially in combination with tobacco. It may also raise the risk of breast cancer. If you are going to imbibe, limit yourself to the equivalent of two drinks a day - and stop smoking.

3. Diet

People who shun fruits and vegetables have roughly twice the incidence of most types of cancer - lung, larynx, oral cavity, stomach, colon, and rectum, bladder, pancreas, cervix, and ovary - than those with the highest intake. Yet only 9 percent of Americans heed the recommendations of the National Cancer Institute and the National Research Council to eat two servings of fruit and three portions of vegetables a day. Seventh-Day Adventists, who don't drink or eat much meat but do consume a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, have the lowest incidence in the U.S. population. This protective effect is probably due to the antioxidants and folic acid present in fruits and vegetables, which neutralize damage to chromosomal DNA caused by oxygen-free radicals.

4. A high-fat diet

This type of diet is associated with cancer of the breast, uterus, and prostate. The guilty foods are eggs, fatty meat, high-fat salad dressings and cooking oils, and diary products such as whole milk, butter, and most cheeses.

Blueberries have a higher antioxidant capacity than any other fruit or vegetable. They are said to protect against cancer by virtue of their anthocyanins and other natural phytochemicals.

5. A high consumption of soy-based food

Soy-based food such as tofu, may also protect against cancer because of the genistein content. Genistein suppresses the production of proteins that these cells need in order to keep growing. In China and Japan, where people eat lots of soy, there is much less cancer of the breast, colon, and prostate than in this country. Since men with prostate cancer generally have lower blood levels of selenium than their normal counterparts, selenium supplements may protect against this malignancy.

6. Some supplements

Some supplements seem to protect against certain cancers. For instance, colon polyps and this do not recur as often in persons who regularly take multivitamins, calcium supplements, and vitamin E. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is protective against it, presumably because of the beta-carotene content. So take your mother's advice: Eat all the fruits and vegetables you can - and forget the pills.

7. Don't have X-rays

Don't have X-rays any more frequently than is absolutely necessary. I no longer take annual routine chest films on myself. Some dentists are too enthusiastic about X rays. Make sure you really need them before acquiescing.

Raymond Lee Geok Seng is one of the foremost experts in the health and fitness industry and is a writer specializing in body health, muscle development and dieting. He has spent countless of time and efforts conducting research and share his insightful and powerful secrets to benefit men and women all over the world. He is currently the author of the latest edition of "Neck Exercises and Workouts."

Visit http://www.bodyfixes.com for more information.

Friends With Cancer - Practical Ideas For Help and Encouragement

2007-12-13T00:44:00.000-08:00

I often get asked for ideas on how to encourage female friends going through cancer treatment. Here are some ideas that I believe you will find helpful.

First of all…be specific. A willingness to help in any way she needs is often overwhelming. She may not have the energy to address and think through what all her needs are. Take the time to look at her home, family, medical and social needs. Then give her a small list of things you can either do or help with.

Second, if you have a personal care skill such as hairdressing, manicuring or massaging, offer your services for a session free of charge. Come to her home if at all possible. Any of these things will delight her! All of us know there is nothing like a little pampering when we don’t feel our best.

If your time is limited or you live a distance from your friend...the following list of items can be given individually or in a lovely gift basket.

It is wise to choose lotions and potions that are fragrance free since many cancer patients have a low tolerance to odors during treatment. You might also want to ask a family member if she has any skin sensitivities or allergies. Include organic products as much as possible. Because they do not contain chemicals and preservatives they will be better tolerated.

1. Nightcaps: homemade or purchased

This is a wonderful gift for your friend if her treatment will cause her to lose her hair. Be sure the fabric is soft and washable and that any elastic is covered and not too tight. Ask her what pretty color or pattern she would like if you are making the nightcap…or surprise her!

2. Nightgowns or robes that open in the front

Ease in dressing is extremely important both during any hospital stays and once she is home.

3. Extra moisturizing body lotion

Remember to keep the ingredients fragrance free and organic if possible

4. A natural bristle hair brush that has extra soft bristles

Again, this is if your friend will lose her hair with treatment. She (or you) can lightly brush her head to stimulate healthy new growth AND it feels great!

5. Purchase a copy of Beauty During the Cancer Journey

It is a simple read where she will find support and help in beauty related issues

6. Lastly, how about purchasing a beautiful bouquet of silk flowers to match the colors of her home?

She won’t have an allergic reaction to them and no one will have to remember to water them!

Carin Hansen was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 40. After a long battle she emerged victorious and began a one-on-one wardrobe and beauty consulting business for other women journeying through cancer. She has been a model, actress, talent agency owner, benefit founder, certified acting/modeling instructor, writer, speaker and passionate cancer advocate. It is important to remember that Carin is not a physician and does not subscribe to or recommend any particular medical procedure or alternative treatment. She strongly urges you to consult with your Primary Physician, Oncologist and/or Surgeon before implementing any of her curriculum. Please visit http://www.bridges2beauty.net for information and products related to beauty and cancer along with self-esteem building. Subscribe to one or both of her free monthly newsletters. We also invite you to visit her blog at http://bridges2beauty.wordpress.com You may also want to purchase her e-book Beauty During the Cancer Journey. Just go to http://www.bridges2beauty.net/e_books.html

Testicular Cancer Symptoms - What to Look Out For

2007-12-13T00:42:00.000-08:00

Considering that 1 in 250 men will be diagnosed with testicular cancer at one point or another, knowing which testicular cancer symptoms to look for can be a life saving bit of knowledge. When you think about it, the statistics are staggering. Not only is testicular cancer fairly common, but it can affect any age group. While you're most likely to be diagnosed with testicular cancer while you're in the 15 to 40 age bracket, everyone from infants to the elderly are at risk. On the bright side, testicular cancer is one of the less deadly forms of the ailment. The mortality rate for testicular cancer as a whole is only around 10 percent, and when it is caught in the earliest stage that number drops to approximately 5 percent.

Still, many people have died from it and it doesn't matter how healthy you are. Take, for instance, Lance Armstrong. The man was a living legend and had won the Tour De France several times when he was diagnosed at the peak of his career. While he ended up living through it, testicular cancer was almost the end of this American Hero. As a result, a huge movement started with people buying and wearing yellow rubber LiveStrong wrist bands. Aimed at raising awareness, the little yellow bands did their job. All that, and many people still don't know many of the testicular cancer symptoms.

If you're unfamiliar with testicular cancer symptoms, please hop online and look them up. There are several of them, many of which are relatively obvious. Others, however, might not send up as many red flags. For example, did you know that dull pain in your lower abdomen is a symptom of testicular cancer? I certainly didn't, until I did my homework. I suggest you do some of your own, it could just save your life one day.

Learn more about Testicular Cancer symptons at the Mens Health Forum. It's free to join, so visit http://www.MensHealthForums.com and become a member today!

Cancer Survivor Impaired Risk Term Life Insurance

2007-12-13T00:39:00.000-08:00

Battling cancer on its own is an extremely trying event in anyone’s life and the lives of their families. If you had already owned a term life insurance policy before you developed cancer, you might have had the opportunity to use the accelerated death benefit to help offset the cost of your cancer treatments as well as other medical bills.

However, now that you have been given a clean bill of health as a cancer survivor, perhaps your term life insurance company chose not to renew your policy or decided to drastically raise your term life insurance premiums. All of a sudden it is a struggle to find affordable coverage since you are now considered an “impaired risk.” Impaired risks are not only people with pre-existing medical conditions or chronic health problems such as diabetes or high blood pressure, but also those who develop cancer, those addicted to drugs or alcohol and even those who have been convicted of a felony. Those who are considered impaired risks often are not able to obtain coverage. If an insurance company is willing to underwrite a policy for those with impaired risks, the premiums are much more expensive than a basic policy.

In recent years, however, insurance companies have begun to find ways to work with people that have health problems, or “impaired risks” – even cancer survivors. It is important to seek out term life insurance companies who specialize in impaired risk coverage rather than “generalists.” Getting cancer survivor or impaired risk insurance has never been easier or more affordable.

How to Obtain Your Coverage

There is good news about term life insurance companies who specialize in cancer survivor and impaired risk term life insurance : they do not operate with a generalized health check list or have blanket requirements to obtain a policy. Each case is evaluated individually. So, as a cancer survivor you would be subject to a thorough health evaluation. You may even be required to submit medical forms signed by your physician stating your current health status. If you are in remission and otherwise lead a healthy lifestyle, basic coverage should no longer be a problem.

Additionally, up-to-date insurance companies now employ a method called “clinical medical underwriting.” Whereas prior to this new system, insurance companies would use a standard mortality table based on 30 year old data, this process takes into consideration all the current medical advances and lifestyle choices that allow people with medical/disability problems to live long and productive lives. Insurance companies now base their cancer survivor impaired risk term life insurance rates on being more informed on individual cases. This means that you will hopefully be able to obtain the best coverage for the least amount of money.

If for some reason you are unable to obtain a term life insurance policy for impaired risk, do not worry. You are always eligible for a guaranteed issue policy. This type of coverage is expensive but they do not require a medical exam and there are no health questions on the application.

Sharon Taylor is a professional writer for eQUOTE Life Insurance. eQUOTE is an excellent online resource providing online quotes for term life insurance to families in 42 states.

Three Approaches To Boosting Immune System Of Cancer Patients

2007-12-13T00:36:00.000-08:00

People struck with cancer can be in a very tight spot, a Catch 22 situation actually. You see, in order for medical doctors to deal with cancer, they have to eradicate the cells that are already stricken with the disease; but in the process called chemotherapy, even the good cells are also damaged and this eventually leads to weaker immune system. In short, cancer patients have to deal with both cancer cells and the risk of being infected by various other diseases.

If you have cancer, you must understand that once you go ahead with the cancer treatment, you must also aim to strengthen your immune system. You simply can not neglect either one; otherwise, your battle with a deadly disease will be for naught. By following three approaches that will help you nurture your immune system in the face of a disease like cancer; you increase your chances of getting back to your normal healthy life.

Food That You Eat

Above anything else, you must keep in mind that the food that you eat can either improve or break your immune system. Choosing to eat a healthy diet that is rich in substances that boost your immune system will enable you to fight off infection even if a treatment process like chemotherapy continues to wreak havoc on your entire body.

Diets that lean to a more vegetarian approach and to a significantly reduced fat intake have always been found to be effective in boosting the immune system and in prevention of cancerous growths in your body. Experts believe that a largely vegetarian diet combined with all the other approaches below can significantly strengthen your body's defense system.

Level Of Physical Exercise

Cancer experts have long been studying the effects of doing regular exercise to the strength of your immune system. In a study, results have been observed where increased physical activity or exercise has boosted the number of immune cells in women who are in the process of breast cancer treatment. The results are encouraging that exercise has a lot to do with defeating cancer cells and, more importantly, increasing your level of immune system.

Reduced Stress Levels

Stress hormones, like adrenaline, have been found to significantly suppress the immune system; in other words, being in a constant state of stress can surely defeat your immune system and jeopardize the way you defend your body against infections. That's not all; stress can also damage your body's ability to repair itself. This doesn't look good for a patient who is already combating cancer.

If you really want to survive cancer and other infections, you must learn how to battle stress. This can not be easy. The mere fact that you are already suffering from cancer can be a source of stress on its own. But then again, it all boils down to how motivated you are in fighting this disease and preventing other complications from happening.

In this regard, many cancer hospitals and support groups have started providing therapeutic procedures that directly target stress levels in patients. On your own, you can try yoga, meditation and other relaxation techniques to lower, or totally eradicate, your stress levels.

When you have cancer, you will be in an uphill battle. As your energy is zapped and your good cells are damaged during your treatment, you may encounter problems that are linked to a weak immune system. You have to prevent this after-effect so that you do not get infected with other diseases.

By using products like Immunitril, apart from practicing the approaches discussed above, you can give your immune system a helping hand. To know more about how you can boost your body's defense system you can visit www.immunitril.com/.

Sharon Bell is an avid health and fitness enthusiast and published author. Many of her insightful articles can be found at the premiere online news magazine http://www.healthnfitnesszone.com

Natural Liver Cancer Treatments

2007-12-13T00:33:00.001-08:00

There have been reports that natural liver cancer treatments can also be highly effectively. These can be used as alternative or complementary measures to conventional medical treatments. Conventionally, drugs, chemotherapy and/or surgery are used to treat liver cancer. However, these solutions produce plenty of side effects and can also result in potential risks to the patients. Natural liver cancer treatments can help alleviate symptoms and in some cases, do much to help reverse the situation.

In order to properly treat liver cancer, the liver first needs to get repaired through a cleansing process. Getting liver repair can begin with a very simple idea. Water is cleansing to the body and is an important component in flushing the liver. Hence, make it a point to drink between one half to one gallon of water every day. Tea and fresh juices can also provide hydration while adding cancer fighting ingredients that are known to help your body defend itself against cancer. Avoid unhealthy drinks such as caffeine or drinks that are high in sugar and processed.

A tea that has been found to be helpful is essiac tea. It is made from a combination of herbs including burdock root, slippery elm inner bark, sheep sorrel, Indian rhubarb root, watercress, blessed thistle, red clover, and kelp. Although this natural liver cancer treatment has not been scientifically proven through official testing, some people have found good results from using this herbal tea. The herbs contained in the tea are found to contain cancer fighting properties in scientific studies. It is reported to strengthen the immune system, relieve pain, cleanse the blood, and promote cellular health. However, this tea must be brewed and consumed according to directions, as the active ingredients are potent. An overdose would be dangerous.

Grape diets have been proposed as cancer fighting ones. Grapes are often used to treat cancer because they contain many helpful nutrients. Hence, when organic grapes and fresh grape juices are added to your diet, you get a boost in your immune system. Do however take note that certain grape diets encourage people to eat and drink only grapes for an extended time. These can cause weight loss and possible deficiencies. Thus, you may need to practise some moderation. If you would like to start on a grape diet, get the advice of your alternative health provider or doctor to make sure that your basic nutritional needs are met and that your health is monitored.

Antioxidants, such as Coenzyme Q10, provide protection for your tissues, including your liver. By controlling damaging free radicals, antioxidants protect cells and cellular components from damage. Many foods are rich in antioxidants. For instance, beta carotene can be found in many foods with orange coloring, like sweet potatoes, squash, carrots, apricots, and mangos. Coenzyme Q10 benefits liver health and should be consumed in a carrier oil, such as fish or flaxseed oil.

There are several other natural liver cancer treatments. What is important is to note that you need not confine yourself to prescriptions and drug treatments of your medical doctor. Natural liver cancer treatments are more readily absorbed your body with minimal side effects. When you flush your liver using natural herbs and nutrients, you are giving it a great opportunity to repair and heal itself.

Sandra Kim Leong writes about the importance of improving digestive health to prevent/treat cancer. She recommends adopting a detox diet. For free research, please sign up to her newsletter at http://www.Detox-Cleansing-Diet.com.

Bladder Cancer

2007-12-13T00:30:00.000-08:00

The growth of cancerous tissue within – or on the surface of the bladder – is known as bladder cancer. Bladder cancer does not target one gender more than another, and it can strike at any age. Obviously, the presence of prostate, cervical or urethral cancer will increase a patient’s likelihood for developing bladder cancer.

Painful urination and the presence of blood in the urine are both signs that a person needs to be examined right away to determine if the cause of these symptoms could be cancer. There are three specific cancers that attack the bladder.

The first is Transitional cell carcinoma. This is how most bladder cancer begins. The inner lining of the bladder is made up of transitional cells. The reason that the cells are called transitional is that they can change size easily to accommodate the stretching of the bladder.

Next, Squamous cell carcinoma. When a person experiences a long bladder infection, this type of cancer can sometimes result.

The Adenocarcinoma variety is the most intense type of bladder cancer. This type of cancer tends to affect all layers of tissue in the bladder and to spread easily and quickly to other parts of the body. Frequently, the surrounding lymph nodes are affected in Adenocarcinoma.

Treatment is case specific, although surgery is best avoided for most patients. Chemotherapy and radiation are the more effective types of treatment frequently recommended by oncologists and urologists who specialize in the treatment of bladder cancer patients.

Written by

Joe Lovrek

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