Chemotherapy and Brain Damage - Is There a Link?

Many chemo patients report mental impairment. Some estimates say as many as 50%. They notice it during and after chemo. The impairment was not present before chemo. Is there a link between chemotherapy and brain damage?

Chemo uses chemicals to kill cancer cells. The body is pumped full of toxins. This would likely cause some cognitive deficits. Mental impairment occurs more often in those treated for cancer involving the reproductive system. Examples are breast and prostate cancers. In these cancers, the chemo levels are very high.

Some call the mental impairment a mental fog. Some call this condition chemofog. The term chemo brain came about in 2004. The term describes the mental fog patients feel during and after chemo treatments.

Researchers have known about chemo brain for over twenty years. Since the 1980's, there are a large number of breast cancer survivors. Many of them have reported symptoms. They started to suspect issues with chemotherapy and brain damage.

They were reporting problems they did not have prior to chemo. Problems with their memory. They were fumbling for words in the middle of sentences. They could not concentrate like before. They could not multi-task any longer. They were having a hard time learning new things. These are typical reports from a chemo brain sufferer. They were feeling half-crippled.

These symptoms lasted for a few weeks to years. Survivors reported different levels of each symptom.

Only recently have there been studies involving chemotherapy and brain damage. The medical profession did not understand the phenomenon. Doctors trivialized the condition for years.

The cause of chemo brain still is not clear. It is not clear how often it happens or what actually triggers it. Some theories are that stress, fatigue and depression causes the effects. Hormone changes, lack of estrogen.

When talking about chemotherapy and brain damage with patients, they have differing views. Some patients have extreme symptoms. Some notice no issues. They are not always sure if they have chemo brain or age-related issues. While other cannot notice a difference before chemo than after chemo.

Medical professionals also have conflicting views on chemotherapy and brain damage.

Some say that the link is real. They point to the large number of documented chemo brain cases. There are also a growing number of studies by researchers. These studies are showing that mental impairment after chemo is real. They are also showing that the impairment can last longer than two years.

In one study, researchers took brain scans of breast cancer survivors. They used chemo patients and patients who survived cancer through surgery. The study showed the brains of chemo patients had to work harder to perform the same tasks.

Others argue the stress of chemo could have an impact on mental function. They also cite reduced levels of estrogen, fatigue, and anxiety. These could all cause chemo brain symptoms. They also point to other medications. Chemo patients often take other drugs to treat chemo side effects.

Another study on chemotherapy and brain damage had a different conclusion. They discovered there might not be a link between chemotherapy and brain damage after all. This study evaluated the cognitive state of women before chemo. Thirty five percent of the women showed some level of mental impairment. Memory was impaired most often.

The conclusion was twofold. First, the cause of chemo brain might be due to factors not considered yet. The second is that any study linking chemotherapy and brain damage must include tests prior to chemo.

The debate about chemotherapy and brain damage will continue.

The bottom line is that the cause of the mental impairment does not matter. What matters is that people are suffering. Chemo brain, cognitive impairment, chemofog, what ever you call it. It has a direct impact on a person's quality of life.

Dr. Henry Mahncke notes how similar chemo brain and age-related mental decay is. Dr. Mahncke is Vice President of Research and Outcomes for Posit Sciences. Posit Sciences develops innovative brain training software. Their software provides brain health and improves cognitive performance.

Brain training is one way to help recover from chemo brain. Thousands have been able to regain their cognitive function due to many different causes. Chemo brain is one of them.

Are Cell Phones Causing Cancer?

In 1993, a man filed a lawsuit against the cell phone industry, claiming that his wife died from a brain tumor caused by her repeated use of the cell phone. The tumor was on the same side of the head where she held her cell phone and was shaped like the cell phone antenna. The case got widespread media attention and was featured in CNN's Larry King show.

Although the claim was dismissed by the court due to lack of sufficient evidence, it was a public relations nightmare for the wireless industry. It also marked the beginning of the global search for a definitive answer to the question: are cell phones safe or not? Does it cause cancer and other degenerative diseases? Brain cancer is up 25% since cell phones became popular. Every year, there are 183,000 more cases in the US alone. Some health experts say there's a link with cell phone use, but is there proof?

In an effort to diffuse the negative publicity from the high-profile lawsuit, the cell phone industry itself funded a $25 million dollar research program to prove that cell phones are safe. After 6 years of intensive research, however, the results were not what they were looking for. Dr. George Carlo, the chief research scientist of the program, found evidence that cell phones pose some health risks, possibly even cancer.

The first evidence of cancer link that shook the cell phone industry came in 1997. Dr. Michael Repacholi and his colleagues from the Royal Adelaide Hospital in South Australia reported that long-term exposure to the type of radiation that comes from digital cell phones caused an increase in the occurrence of lymphoma in mice. The study received widespread international media attention because it was the first time that cancer has been linked to the cell phone in a well-conducted study.

THE RED FLAGS: SOLVING THE CANCER PUZZLE

In order to show a link between cell phone radiation and cancer, let's look at several studies Dr. Carlo investigated that made him blow the whistle, so to speak. These red-flag findings provide the pieces that fit together to form the cancer picture:

- DNA Damage in Human Blood Studies

- Breakdown in the Blood-Brain Barrier

- Studies of Tumors in People Who Use Cell Phones

- Studies of Cell Phone Radiation Dosage and Response

DNA DAMAGE IN HUMAN BLOOD

All tumors and all cancers are the result of genetic damage. Most often that damage includes the formation of micronuclei--fragments of chromosomes that form membranes around themselves and appear under a microscope as additional nuclei in blood cells (which normally have just a single nucleus). The relationship between micronuclei and cancer is so strong that doctors around the world test for their presence to identify patients likely to develop cancer. The presence of micronuclei indicates that the cells can no longer properly repair broken DNA. This deficiency is considered to be an indication of an increased risk of developing cancer.

- In December 1998, Drs. Ray Tice and Graham Hook of Integrated Laboratory Systems in North Carolina have shown that blood cells exposed to cell phone radiation suffer genetic damage in the form of micronuclei. In their studies, DNA and chromosome damage in human white blood cells occurred when exposed to signals from all types of phones--analog, digital, and PCS. Damage was shown even from signals occurring at a SAR level below the government's "safety" guideline.

- Using different methods, the above finding was confirmed by Dr. Joseph Roti Roti of Washington University in St. Louis in 2000. His research showed that human blood cells exposed to radiation at wireless phone frequencies did indeed develop genetic damage, in the form of micronuclei. This finding received a lot of notice because Dr. Roti Roti is a prominent scientist who does hiw work under funding by Motorola Inc.

This has a very serious implication. If cell phone radiation encourages the formation of micronuclei in blood cells, and micronuclei are said to be "biological markers" for cancer, then based on these studies alone cell phone use could be said to increase the risk of cancer

BREAKDOWN IN THE BLOOD BRAIN BARRIER

The blood brain barrier is a special filter in the blood vessels of the brain that keeps dangerous chemicals from reaching sensitive brain tissue and causing DNA breaks and other damage.

- In 1994 and again, in 2002, Dr. Leif Salford from Lund University in Stockholm, Sweden found in his studies that rats exposed to cell phone radiation showed a breakdown in the blood brain barrier, as well as areas of shrunken, damaged neurons.

The micronuclei studies of Tice, Hook and Roti Roti and the blood-brain findings of Salford provide a two-step explanation for how cancer could be caused by cell phone radiation.

Step One: A leakage or breakdown in the blood brain barrier would provide a pathway for cancer-causing chemicals in the bloodstream (from tobacco, pesticides, air pollution, etc.) to leak into the brain and damage sensitive brain tissue that would otherwise be protected. These chemicals could break the DNA in the brain or cause other harm to reach those cells.

Step Two: While a number of studies showed that cell phone radiation by itself does not appear to break DNA, the micronuclei findings suggest that they do impair the DNA repair mechanisms in brain cells. Micronuclei result from a breakdown of the cell's ability to repair itself. If the brain cells become unable to repair themselves, then carcinogenesis--the creation of tumors--induced by chemical toxins could begin.

DNA carries the genetic material of an organism and its different cells. Any damage that goes unrepaired affects the future generation of cells. The change has procreated and this mutation is seen as a possible cause of cancer.

TUMORS IN PEOPLE WHO USE CELL PHONES

Epidemiological studies, performed by different investigators using different methods, show some evidence of an increased risk of tumors among people who use cellular phones.

- In 1998, Dr. Ken Rothman of Eidemiology Resources, Inc. in Newton, Mass., did a study showing that users of handheld cell phones have more than twice the risk of dying from brain cancer than do car phone users--whose antennas are mounted on the body of the car, far removed from the users' heads.

- In 1998, Joshua Muscat, a research scientist from the American Health Foundation, showed in his study a doubling of the risk of developing neuro-epithelial tumors on the outside of the brain among cell phone users, particularly on the side of the skull where cell phone antennas are held during calls.

- Muscat also showed in another study that people who have used cell phones for six years or more have a 50-percent increase in risk of developing acoustic neuroma, a benign tumor of the nerve that controls hearing and extends from the ear to the brain. Acoustic neuromas can cause hearing loss and can be life-threatening if untreated.

This was confirmed in a separate study in Stockholm, Sweden by Anders Ahlbom in 2004 and sponsored by the World Health Organization (WHO), which finds that people who have used cell phones, this time for at least 10 years, may have an increased risk of developing acoustic neuroma.

- In a study also requested by WHO, researchers headed by Dr. Lennart Hardell of the Orebro Medical Center in Sweden examined 1,617 patients aged between 20 and 80 who had been diagnosed with a brain tumour between 1997 and 2000. They were then compared to healthy people. Those who used cell phones for less than 10 years faced a 20% higher risk of developing brain cancer. But for those who used them for more than a decade the risk was 80% higher. The study also found that tumours were 2.5 times more likely to be on the same side of the head as the phone was held. The cancer of the auditory nerve, accoustic neuroma, showed a larger increase--3.5 times greater risk.

CELL PHONE RADIATION DOSAGE AND RESPONSE

All studies mentioned showed that an increase in cell phone radiation exposure also increases the likelihood of the adverse effect occurring.

In Repacholi's study of mice, the risk of lymphoma increased significantly the longer the mice were exposed to the radio waves.

In the research work done by Tice, Hook, and Roti Roti, the risks of genetic damage as measured by micronuclei formation increased as the amount of radiation increased.

In the three epidemoiological studies--two by Muscat and one by Hardell--the risk of tumors was greater in the areas of the brain near where the cell phone was held.

In Salford's study, the higher the radiation exposure level the rats were exposed to, the more damage was apparent in the blood vessels in the brain and the neurons.

THE BIG CANCER PICTURE

The test tube studies by Tice and Hook; the mouse study by Repacholoi and Selford; and the epidemiological studies by Rothman, Muscat, and Hardell all agree in that they suggest an increased risk of cancer among cell phone users. They fit together to form the beginnings of a picture that everyone can see. They perhaps don't form the complete picture yet, but there are enough already in place to see that there is cause fo genuine public health concern about cell phone safety.

According to Dr. Carlo, "The big picture is disturbingly clear. There is a definite risk that the radiation plume that emanates from a cell phone antenna can cause cancer and other health problems. It is a risk that affects hundreds of millions of people around the world. It is a risk that must be seen and understood by all who use cell phones so they can take all the appropriate and available steps to protect themselves--and especially to protect young children whose skulls are still growing and who are the most vulnerable to the risks of radiation."

MORE PIECES COMING

- In 2000, a team of Sydney researchers published a scientific hypothesis about how mobile phone radiation causes cancer. The report claims that the radiation generated by cell phones causes ongoing stress to the body cells, causing them to give off 'heat shock proteins (HSP).' The human cells sometimes release these proteins in response to injury or infection. Such a chronic activation of the heat shock response affects the normal regulation of cells, which could result in cancer.

- In 2002, cell biologist Fiorenzo Marinelli and his team at the National Research Council in Bologna, Italy, exposed leukemia cells to continuous radio waves similar to that of cell phones. The exposed cells had a higher rate of death than the controls initially, but after further exposure, a curious thing happened: instead of more cells dying, the exposed cells were replicating furiously compared to the controls. Genes that trigger cells to multiply were turned on in a high proportion of the cells. The cancer, although briefly beaten back, had become more aggressive. Marinelli suspects that the radiation may initially damage DNA, and that this interferes with the biochemical signals in a way that ultimately triggers the cells to multiply more rapidly.

SO WHY ARE CELL PHONES STILL AROUND?

Now with all the mounting evidence, the cell phone industry still maintains their position that cell phones are safe and have even begun marketing towards children. The governments have been slow in stepping in to warn people of any danger from using cell phones. Fortunately, health officials and experts in several European countries are taking the first steps, having issued public warnings to parents urging caution about kids and cell phones,

If the previous environmental issues involving tobacco, asbestos, and lead are any indication, it takes years and even decades to accumulate the amount of evidence that would produce a definite ruling. In the case of cigarette smoking, it took two decades of study and 100 years of consumer use to gather enough data to meet research standards to demonstrate the need for the U.S. Surgeon General's warning label on cigarette packs. Some experts say that in the case of cell phones, it will not take that long as data are coming in at a faster pace. But at the present the authorities can only urge people to exercise caution.

Replication of research is another problem. A study that comes out with a new finding generally does not gain immediate acceptance in the scientific community or the wireless industry unless another research lab has been able to replicate the work and the findings. The industry has cleverly perpetuated their position by creating an illusion of responsible follow up by always calling for more research.

When Dr. Salford published his study in 2003 showing that rat brain neurons were dying from exposure to cellphone radiation, he warned there might be similar effects in humans that over time could lead to degenerative diseases of the brain. His study was written off by the industry as a "novel" finding that needed to be replicated.

But achieving the scientific standard of replication can be complicated. Salford says if studies aren't absolutely replicated, providing an apples-to-apples comparison, there's wiggle room to dispute follow-up findings. Research studies require funding, and the wireless industry, after Dr. Carlo's revelations, have been reluctant to put money into more comprehensive research. As for governments, again many European governments are taking the responsible course by funding research, but the U.S. and Canada are lagging poorly.

In 1999, CNN's Larry King once again featured a man who brought a multimillion dollar lawsuit against cell phone manufacturers. This time the man, a Maryland neurologist, was himself diagnosed with brain cancer--again located on the side of the head where he held his cell phone. The suit was yet again dismissed, however, and the man died not long afterwards.

According to WHO report, 0.1 billion people have died from tobacco use in the 20th century, and 10 times as many will die in the 21st century. No one is suggesting that cell phones could cause as much casualties, but do we really want to wait and find out?

AIMING FOR RESPONSIBLE TECHNOLOGY

Unlike tobacco, the cell phone has become as an indispensable part of our lives as television and computer. It has enabled us to make a gigantic leap in the way we communicate with one another and has been credited widely with saving people's lives in emergency situations. Cell phones are here to stay, and perhaps rightly so.

The question is not how to stop people from using this ubiquitous device but rather how to make it safer. The first step always is to admit there is a problem, hence the industry and the government have to acknowledge the health risks inherent with the present technology. This way we can all find the proper solutions that we may more enjoy the benefits of its use without sacrificing our health and wellbeing.

copyright 2005 Taraka Serrano

Brain Tumor Signs And Symptoms - What Are The Warning Signs?

A brain tumor is a growth in the brain that may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Both a benign and malignant tumor can cause symptoms because the tumors' growth takes up space and causes pressure and compression on vital nerve tissue. Review these symptoms to detect if you have any of the warning signs of a tumor and learn more about the cause, diagnosis and treatment.

Brain Tumor Signs And Symptoms Cancer Medicine

The most common symptom is a headache. 90% of those with a tumor in the brain will experience a headache during the course of the illness. The headache may be described as a an intermittent (off and on) deep ache, or pressure. It is not usually described as throbbing. The headache may be increased by coughing, straining, or changing positions (i.e. standing to lying down). Headaches caused by tumors are usually more intense in the morning at the early stages of tumor growth.

Other symptoms of brain tumor may include nausea and vomiting (some persons may vomit without any preceding nausea), sudden changes in vision (i.e. double vision), memory lapses, changes in personality, or seizures.

Tumor Cause, Diagnosis and Treatment

There is no known cause for primary brain tumors (tumors that originate in the brain) and most tumors of the brain have spread (metastasized) from cancer elsewhere in the body.

The aforementioned symptoms may be noted and should be evaluated by a physician so a proper diagnosis can be made. The evaluation may include a physical examination and specialized tests such as CT or MRI scans, or EEG (electroencephalogram instrument records brain activity).

Tumors of the brain are treated by surgically removal if possible (inoperable brain tumors can not be removed because they are too large or in an inaccessible area). Radiation treatments or chemotherapy may also be considered as treatment options.

Brain Tumor - There is A Cure

To a layman, brain tumor is basically cancer of the brain. Medulloblastoma, ependymoma, glioma, teratoma, atypical teratoid rhadoid tumor, etc, are names associated with different types of brain tumor. Cancer Medicine

In simple terms, brain tumor is no more than uncontrolled growth of cells forming a lump in the brain. Just like any other form of cancers, brain tumor can spread and proliferate to any other parts of the body. Even before the brain tumor proliferates, or metastasize as a medical doctor or an oncologist would say it, the tumor could wreak havoc in the brain. Our brain, as we know it, controls the rest of the body. Any disturbance up there will affect our normal functioning of the various faculties. Therefore, symptoms of brain tumor really depends on where and how big the tumor is.

This article brings to light a relatively new form of treatment that could bring hope to those afflicted with brain tumor.

The ideal objective of any treatment for brain tumor is total removal of the tumor, without any recurrence and proliferation. The most common treatment is surgical removal of the tumor. Surgery posts the high risks of damaging even a tiny bit of the surrounding structure, tissues or nerves.  Apart from conventional surgery, the newer types of surgery include what is known as stereotactic radiosurgery and gamma knife radiosurgery.  These two forms of surgery are specific, but are still considered ionizing and invasive, respectively. This article shares with the reader a non-surgical, non-ionizing, and non-invasive form of treatment for cancer.

This technology is commercially known as CYTOTRON, or scientifically known as RFQMR or Rotational Field Quantum Magnetic Resonance. Cytotron came into the world in 2006 after more than a decade of research and fine-tuning. It is invented by Dr. Rajah Vijay Kumar from Bangalore, India. Dr Kumar is a tissue reengineering scientist. He works with medical doctors and specialist in inventing the Cytotron. This technology was first successfully applied to the treatment of osteoarthritis. For details on this aspect, please refer to my upcoming article 'Osteoarthritis - There Is cure!'.

The layman explanation of Cytotron in cancer treatment is simplified here. The Cytotron uses radio and near radio frequency to beam specifically on the tumor or cancerous area. What Cytotron tries to accomplish is to induce the self-death of the cancer cells. This is known as apoptosis in medical term. In cancer cells, the process of natural death is missing due to some missing process in the cell cycle. With Cytotron, that process of natural death is restored without affecting the neighboring normal cells. With the many cases that had been treated, the MRI results showed objective evidence of the arrest of cancer growth and also the disappearance of the cancer cells.

One of the most amazing successful cases of Cytotron treatment on cancer was a 7 year-old girl from Ipoh of Perak state, Malaysia. This girl, Ying, was detected with brain tumor when her parents noticed she was not able to behave normally and knocked into things around the house. Her brain tumor led to her loss of vision and, if untreated, she was on the brink of death. About one year after the tumor was detected, it had grown from 3 to 4 centimeters, and then, increased by another centimeter in just another 4 months. Then, she was put on a 28 consecutive, 1 hour per day treatment with the Cytotron. During the Cytotron treatment, her condition had already begun to show improvement. 3 months after the treatment, her MRI clearly showed that the brain tumor growth had been successfully arrested. Half a year later, the tumor totally collapsed. Today, at the age of 9 years old, she has gone back to school like other kids.

To those who are living with the agony of cancer, CYTOTRON, or RFQMR, may bring new light to their lives.

Marijuana Helps Cuts Tumor Growth in Brain Cancer and Help Relieve Pain and Suffering for Others

Most individuals when they hear of cannabis, they think pot, chronic, marijuana, an unlawful herb which can cause them long prison convictions where the authorities throw away the key. Some people have heard that the use of marijuana can drive you nuts. However how many of you knew there is another side to marijuana use. Yes! outside of recreational drug use. Marijuana help A.I.D.S suffers, cancer suffers, suffers of Multiple Sclerosis. Various studies have shown cannabis may be useful in addressing alcohol abuse,attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD or AD/HD), collagen-induced arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis,asthma,atherosclerosis,bipolar disorder, colorectal cancer,depression, diabetic retinopathy, dystonia, epilepsy, digestive diseases, gliomas, hepatitis C, Huntington's disease, hypertension, urinary incontinence, leukemia, skin tumors, morning sickness, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Parkinson's disease, pruritus, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sickle-cell disease, sleep apnea, and anorexia nervosa. However regarding some of these claims validation of these results needs longer, controlled studies on broader samples. Which may not occur due to the criminal status of this magnificent herb

Although the extent of the medicinal value of cannabis has been disputed, and despite the opposition to research and use put forward by most national governments, it does have several well-documented beneficial effects. Among these are: the amelioration of nausea and vomiting, stimulation of hunger in chemotherapy and AIDS patients, lowered intraocular eye pressure (shown to be effective for treating glaucoma), as well as general analgesic effects (pain relief). In fact Marijuana has been used in China and India as early as 3000 B.C. to treat a variety of ailments from easing the pain of childbirth to relieving asthma and epilepsy symptoms, even improving appetite and mental or emotional dispositions. In fact marijuana was the weapon of choice when it came to medicinal treatment in pre 1930's U.S.A. Cannabis was used in the treatment of all kinds of malady from tooth ache to several forms of anxiety disorders. However it is in recent times that marijuana also known as Hemp is again finding prominence in the medicinal arena. This was influenced by efforts being done by researchers investigating methods of ascertaining cannabis intoxication when they observed that smoking the drug reduced intraocular pressure. Thus arousing efforts for further research in the medicinal benefits of marijuana.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) published a policy in May 1999 that prescribed the need for further research into the use of marijuana for medical treatment. The NIH maintains that the use of marijuana for medical reasons must involve an analysis of the benefits of use as well as the possible risks. Although the United States has not openly supported any efforts regarding the medicinal efficacy of marijuana. Most other countries have researched and identified various areas in which Cannabis help relieve suffering.

Research released in the British Journal of Cancer reported that the intra-cranial administration of THC was associated with reduced tumor cell proliferation in humans with higher glioblastomaecting the viability of non transformed counterparts. This was supported by Italian researcher who identified "cannabinoids have displayed a great potency in reducing glioma tumor growth. Appearing to be selective antitumoral agents as they kill glioma cells without affecting the viability of non transformed counterparts." What this means really is that cannabiniods which is a component of cannabis effectively isolates and destroy brain cancer cells without harming or affecting healthy brain cells unlike any invasive or radiation therapy known of. Spanish researcher Dr. Manuel Guzman, one of the world's leading experts in the field, wrote in a 2003 review in the journal Nature Reviews: Cancer, "Cannabinoids are selective anti-tumor compounds, as they can kill tumor cells without affecting their non-transformed counterparts." It is likely that cannabinoid receptors regulate cell-survival and cell-death pathways differently in tumor and non tumor cells." But Medicinal marijuana benefits doesn't stop with cancer either, remember I mentioned earlier it also delivers benefit to persons suffering with A.I.D.S

What assistance does marijuana offer A.I.D.S stricken individuals? Here is how marijuana helps; Researchers at Columbia University publicized clinical trial data in 2007 showing that HIV/AIDS patients who breathed in cannabis four times everyday experienced considerable increases in food intake with little evidence of irritation and no impairment of cognitive performance. They reasoned that smoked marijuana has a clear medical benefit in HIV-positive patients. In another study in 2008, researchers found that marijuana significantly reduces HIV-related neuropathic pain when added to a patients already-prescribed pain management regimen and may be an "effective option for pain relief" in those whose pain is not controlled with current medications. Medical cannabis appears to help negate appetite loss, nausea, and pain associated with HIV and AIDS. Additionally marijuana's use has been known to ease the dementia, also known as AIDS dementia complex, HIV dementia, HIV encephalopathy, HIV-associated dementia, HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder, and HIV-related dementia suffered by many AIDS patients during the end stages of the disease.

That's cancer and AIDS what else is there? It is a very long list which I will share with in another article. However some individuals may think that cannabis is just great for any disease or disorder. The problem is that every individual responds to cannabis differently depending upon their age and illness, their unique genetics, the setting in which cannabis is utilised, the particular strain, makeup, and potency of the cannabis used, and the unique thinking and emotions of that patient. It remains arguable whether medical marijuana is a legitimate treatment or a miracle drug. I personally cannot substantiate that however from where I stand it seems marijuana is very helpful.

How Does Cancer Affect Cells?

Cancer is the name for a disease that can affect cells from all the organs and body's structures and is considered to be life threatening. Cancer determines cells to divide in an uncontrollable way. Generally the cells of the body divide only when needed, like when they grow old and other cells need to be produced in order to replace them or when they are in a small amount and the body needs more of them.

Because the cells are produced in an increased number, a mass of unknown tissue will form, known as a tumor (this tumor can be benign or malign).

The benign form of the tumor is considered not to be harmful. It can be easily removed and will not spread to other organs. The possibility for this tumor to reappear is much reduced.

The malign form of the tumor is also known as cancer and is considered to be a threat to life. It can affect organs that are situated near the tumor and it can also get into the bloodstream or lymphatic system and reach other organs creating new tumors in the whole body. This is known as metastasis. The secondary disease will be named after the primary disease, because the metastatic cancerous cells have the same structure with the basic tumor cells.

Taking colon cancer for an example, if the colon cancer cells spread toward the liver and affect it, the liver disease will be called metastatic colon cancer.

In the whole world, colon cancer is the third leading cause of cancer in males and the fourth in women. It is quite rare in Asia and Africa but you can find it frequently in the Western world. Those who have adopted western diets are at risk to develop colorectal cancer. Doctors believe that this type of cancer is developing from polyps situated in the large intestine (colon and rectum are a part of the large intestine). These polyps are considered to be benign but left untreated for years they can transform in malign tumors. The polyps can be removed easily during a colonoscopy performed by the doctor.

Colorectal cancer can affect nearby structures and can even get into the bloodstream or lymphatic system and spread towards liver and lungs where it will produce another tumor. If metastasis has occurred, the hope of treatment efficiency is considered to have reduced drastically.

Different Types of Tumor Treatments

Almost every cancer shows in the appearance of a tumor which is attaching themselves to several organs like the brain, lungs, cervix, liver, prostate and pancreas. Other form of cancers such as leukemia or blood cancers was not manifested by tumors.

With some cases of the patients that cancers were involving tumors, there are various suggested treatments available to defeat the growing tumors. These are some types of tumor treatments that can help in restoring the patient's health without too many damages.

Surgical treatment

From definite forms of cancer like breast or prostate cancers, where the tumor cells are able to be removed from the involved organ with no considerable damage to the patient rather with the organ, the usual mode of treatment should be surgery.

Surgery was also been used to remove the surrounding tissues of the affected organ to be assured not to remain to the other safe sides. Surgical treatment requires the patient to stay in the hospital and typically followed by the radiation or chemotherapy to clean up any remains of the cancerous cells.

More often, the concerned organ loses a bundle of tissues along with the muscles in the process of terminating the cancerous cells just like in the case of breast cancer. But, it is still the doctor who needs to decide on the surgery after the various testing and reviews of the results along with the location of the affected organs.

Chemotherapy

This type of tumor treatment consists o drugs which are either be injected to a patient or have been given orally. Though, almost all patients obtain the drug doses via catheter for them to cause a minimal discomfort.

The treatment works through successive periods like treatment period and the recovery period. But, chemotherapy can also kill healthy cells to its intention of destroying the cancerous cells. The patients may also suffer horrible side effects like diarrhea, vomiting and hair losses. There are several drugs that can be managed together in destroying the cancer cells, patients should always be on their regular check-ups for the monitoring of their treatment progress.

Radiation Therapy

The radiation therapy is commonly used after undergoing a surgery to totally eliminate any existing cancerous cells that may reform to cause chaos again. Patients were given the radioactive pills to be swallowed and in some other cases, the treatment was given trough intravenously.

With this tumor treatment, the radioactive matter will destroy the cancerous cells that must have been hiding inside or at the rare of the tumor. The patients may also undergo an external beam radiation that was projected right to the site of the affected organ. This type of treatment was run at around 5 days each week and patient is permitted to go home after every session.

Other Treatment Forms

Target therapy - it is utilized to purposely target the cancerous cells as leaving behind the normal cells unharmed.

Immunotherapy - it edifies that immune system in fighting the assault of cancerous cells.

Herbal treatments and acupuncture - these are the alternatives of the tumor treatments that have not adequate research in backing up their declaration of effectiveness.

Stage 4 Cancer - Cure Stage 4 Cancer

Whether it be stage 1,2,3 or 4 of most any cancer, they are all reversible through alternative medecine.

Case in point, take the doctor who told his patient (another doctor), a stage 4 brain tumor dying doctor, "that as far as I'm concerned, you're a dead man", when this dying doctor requested his medical records. This doctor who had been given only two months to live, still lives today totally free of cancer for over 45 years, after being treated with alternative medecine.

How many success stories involving any stages of cancers of any types, must one have to read or hear about, before one finally decides to take action? What the heck is stopping people, you, from listening? It can't be money since money is definitely not worth your life. It can't be money, because it takes no or very little money...So what is it? Cancer Medicine

Especially, when you know that the only reason you got cancer to begin with is due to malnutrition, toxins, parasites, and other contaminants, too many to mention, dating back to hundreds of years but more rampant since the Second World War because government thinking they were doing a good thing, made food cheaply available. They didn't know it then, but this was the beginning of a growing health problem.

Stage 4 cancer is when the primary tumor spreads to other organs in the body. About 30 years ago, I came across an interesting story, which I'll remember forever, and vowed this is what I would do if ever I was diagnosed. The man had been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer and had been given about 2-4 months to live. With nothing better to do, he decided he would pass time by tendering to his garden. Having no real desire for food or drink, he began snacking on his naturally grown vegetables straight from the garden (not washed, just removing the dirt).

The man didn't even bother with doctors visits for pain killers. As the days went by, he noticed his pains were subsiding. Thinking nothing of it, he continued his daily tendering of his garden and one day realized that he had surpassed his appointed time and no longer felt pain. He went to his doctor, and following tests and scans, the doctors couldn't believe what they were seeing. The stage 4 cancer had totally disappeared. No traces of any cancer anywhere. That was a stage 4 cancer people...cured with naturally grown vegetables.

Which brings me back to the doctor patient, who didn't give up and chose the alternative way, besides the negative statement by his treating physician. Again, how many times must you hear true stories before you take action on your cancer?

Cancer Symptoms to Watch Out For!

Cancer prevention is better than cancer treatment. Although there are several cancer treatments options these days, it is still better to prevent the disease from occurring. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and other kinds of cancer treatments are effective when the cancer is diagnosed in its early stage. Even with the most advance medical equipment and powerful drugs, it is very difficult to treat cancer in its advance stage. This is the reason why many doctors recommend everyone especially those with a family history of cancer to watch out for the different cancer symptoms and signs. Early diagnosis is very imperative for a successful treatment of cancer. Those who are at risk for any kind of cancer should have a regular checkup. In addition, everyone should be aware of the different signs and symptoms of cancer.

General Signs and Symptoms

There are more than 200 kinds of cancer and each has different signs and symptoms. There are however some general signs and symptoms for which are associated with all types of cancer. The acronym CAUTION is usually used to help people remember the warning cancer signs and symptoms. The C stands for change in the bowel habits while the A stands for a cut or sore which does not heal. The U means unusual discharge or bleeding and the T is for thickening or lump in any part of the body especially the breast. The I stands for indigestion or difficulties in swallowing. On the other hand, O means obvious changes in a mole or a wart while the N stands for nagging cough or hoarseness. These general cancer symptoms should be remembered by every one. If you experience any of these signs and symptoms, you should go to your doctor immediately.

Lung Cancer Signs and Symptoms Cancer Medicine

Lung cancer is the number one cause of cancer death both in men and women worldwide according to cancer statistics as of 2004. Most of the common lung cancer symptoms do not appear immediately. Hence, those who have a family history of lung cancer and smokers should undergo lung cancer tests regularly. The signs and symptoms of lung cancer are shortness of breath (dyspnea), chronic coughing, pain in the abdomen or chest area and coughing up of blood (hemoptysis). Other symptoms are wheezing, weight loss, fatigue, hoarseness and loss of appetite.

Brain Cancer Signs and Symptoms

Some brain cancer types do not manifest any cancer symptoms or signs which is why it is difficult to diagnose the disease in its early stage. There are some warning signs and symptoms to watch out for. They might be caused by other brain diseases but doctors recommend individuals to watch out for them nonetheless. Brain cancer symptoms are usually caused by the presence of the tumor which can cause swelling and inflammation in the brain. The common brain cancer symptoms and signs are headache, difficulty in walking, seizures, weakness and clumsiness. Another symptom to watch out for is changes in a person's mental status such as changes in memory, attention and concentration. Nausea and vomiting early in the morning, speech difficulties, vision abnormalities and gradual changes in the emotional and intellectual capacity of a person are other signs and symptoms to be aware of.

Learn About the Different Types of Cancer

Based on research, there are more than 100 types of cancer these days. These types have different causes and they also have different unique characteristics. They have causes, risk factors and signs and symptoms. All types of this disease are chronic and life-threatening although when they are diagnosed early, the rate of survival is also high. Every year thousands of people die because of this terrible disease. All organs of the body can be affected by cancer.

Common Causes

Each type of cancer has its own manifestation. But there are some risk factors which can be associated with all types. One of the most common risk factor is family history. People with a family history of any kinds of the disease are at risk of developing it. In addition, an unhealthy lifestyle can also cause many kinds of cancer. Eating unhealthy foods, and especially those rich in fat, and a sedentary lifestyle can lead to the development of several kinds. Genetics can also play a role for some kinds of the disease. Changes in certain genes can cause some types. Cigarette smoking and too much alcohol intake can also contribute to the development of the disease.

Most Common Cancer

Based on studies done in the US, there are 12 common types of cancer. Lung cancer, which tops the list of the most common type, is also the leading cause of death among men and women. The other common types are bladder, colon and rectal, kidney, breast, and endometrial cancer. The remaining 6 common cancers are melanoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma leukemia, prostate, pancreatic and thyroid cancer.

Brain Cancer

Brain cancer can affect both adults and children and they can be benign or malignant. Some types of the disease can be asymptomatic which means that they do not have any signs or symptoms. These kinds of brain diseases are usually diagnosed in their advance stage only. There are 8 kinds of brain cancer. This type, which may occur in childhood are: brain stem glioma, ependymoma, visual pathway and hypothalamic glioma and cerebellar astrocytoma. Brain tumor affects adults.

Breast Cancer

Women are basically the ones affected by breast cancer although these days a very small percentage of men can also develop the disease. Based on studies at least 200,000 women are affected by breast cancer in the US. There are five common kinds of this disease of the breast area. There are inflammatory breast, lobular carcinoma in situ, ductal carninoma in situ, Paget's disease of the nipple and invasive breast cancer.

Digestive and Gastrointestinal Cancers

All the organs of the digestive and gastrointestinal system can be affected by the disease. Examples are anal, colon, liver, bile duct, pancreatic and rectal cancer. Other types of the disease under these systems include gallbladder, stomach, small intestine cancer, esophageal and carcinoid tumor.

There are many more kinds of cancer which affects the different systems of the body. For instance, the endocrine system can be affected by pituitary tumor and parathyroid cancer. The genitourinary system can also develop penile, testicular, urethral and bladder cancer. Thousands of women also suffer from gynecologic cancers every year such as cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, vulvar cancer and endometrial cancer.

Brain Tumors and Nutrition - Which Foods to Eat to Slow Tumor Growth

Nutrition is crucial for our wellbeing. Our way of eating, however seems not to acknowledge this fact. How, otherwise, would we eat tons of fried stuff, of deep fried stuff especially, like French fries, deep fried meat and other oily food? The average American eats too much fat, and too much heated fat. If he ate more oily fish like salmon or sardines, he would eat better foods. Cancer Medicine

It is thought that at least 35 % of all tumors have a connection with nutrition. When we add certain lifestyle factors like smoking or drinking alcohol, the danger of developing some kind of cancer or tumor increases a lot.

Healthy foods that can protect us come from the reign of the plants. Plants give us certain protective ingredients that give great benefit. to the human being. They protect our cells from oxidation, they help protect cells from cancer and they give us, another protective factor called bioflavonoids. Foods that are rich in botanical factors include berries, dark green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, legumes like beans of all kinds, (including soy) And, of course, whole grains.

Why should we eat broccoli? Broccoli belongs to a group of vegetables that are called cruciferous because its flowers have the shape of a cross. Another vegetable t of the same group hat is very healthy is Brussels sprouts. These vegetables are protective against the formation of cancer, at least this was shown in laboratory. Other vegetables that belong to the same group and that we should eat regularly are cabbage, cauliflower, watercress and some less known kinds. A part from the protective factors they bring with them, they also give us some of the necessary indigestible fibers

As far as brain tumors are concerned, they may be influenced by a healthy diet. Obviously, a healthy diet is only part of the treatment. If you have to undergo chemotherapy or other chemical treatments, agree to them as long as you find an improvement in your health. Some nutritionists suggest the daily intake of at least one to three raw apples. They also suggest to eat whole grain bread and nothing else. As drink, green tea seems to be the choice.This tumor-starving diet seems to have proven to be successful.

If you are not convinced of the tumor starving diet, eat the above indicated vegetables and add also almonds, walnuts and pine nuts to your diet. They will help you overcome your fatigue that comes along with brain tumor.

As already mentioned, another very important nutritional factor are dietary fibers that help prevent cancer. These fibers are the indigestible part of foods. These foods origin from plants. They help to maintain a healthy colon. They also dilute potentially hazardous substances that might induce cancer. The intake of fibers is crucial for our overall wellbeing and health and therefore also useful in case of brain tumor.

Acupuncture for Treating Brain Tumors and Diseases in Quantum Brain Healing

Quantum Brain Healing uses acupuncture along with orthomolecular medicine and other therapies. Acupuncture can be key in treating or healing certain types of diseases. It is extremely important to know and understand which diseases acupuncture will heal. Other diseases will be treated over the long term basis and symptoms will improve.

Acupuncturists know that a calming effect can often be obtained by simple techniques. It can be combined with herbs and is well-known for preventing brain decline and treating changes in mental function, brain damage, ischemia, stroke, Alzheimer's disease, ALS, mental retardation, attention deficit disorder, Tourette's syndrome, manic-depressive syndrome, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, and schizophrenia. Research around the world has proven its effectiveness in eliminating cysts and treating small tumors. Dr Y Omura, head of The International College of Acupuncture and Electro-Therapy (ICAET) in New York, has researched using acupuncture to treat difficult types of brain cancer for many years. He has developed a diagnostic and treatment protocol that can help some of the most difficult cancer cases be put into long term remission. Cancer Medicine

Quantum Brain Healing will use the main body points, scalp and ear acupuncture points for treating brain and mental function disorders. Electro-acupuncture is often great for treating certain types of brain malfunctions. Early treatment of symptoms can delay or prevent many diseases that occur in multiple family members. Good family health records are always helpful in preventative medicine.

There are many brain diseases and symptoms that can be cured or treated including:

• long term brain damage

• metabolic disorders

• surgical recovery after the removal of a brain tumor

• birth defects affecting the brain

• emotional distress

• addictive behaviors

• mental disorders

• cognitive decline and dementia due to poor blood circulation

Medical research is the investigating the use of acupuncture and herbs to treat the elderly who have had a stroke or suffer from senile dementia, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, Parkinson's Disease, Huntington's Disease, MS, herpes infections in the brain, Bipolar, anxiety, stress, neurosis, mania, kleptomania, drug addiction, alcoholism, eating disorders, tics, motor problems, ADD, ADHD, or mental retardation. It is very common for herbal formulas or single herbs to be used along with acupuncture for treating brain disease.

©Dr R Stone, MD in Alternative Medicine-India

A Brain Tumor Symptom - Truth About Neck Pain Revealed

Brain tumor symptoms can be hard to recognize, simply because of the variety of symptoms that can occur. Symptoms ranging from headaches and neck pain to seizures and stomach problems are all brain tumor symptoms. These symptoms occur when the brain tumor causes damage to various clusters of nerve cells, causing spurious signals or a sudden lack of signals to various parts of your body. Early detection can be extremely difficult with slow-growing brain tumors because of the gradual onset of symptoms, which may be very subtle at first.

Cancer Medicine With a brain tumor, neck pain can occur at times, but recurring headaches are the most frequent sign of a brain tumor. But diagnosis can be difficult. Most people have headaches, and many have recurring headaches or migraines - but not a brain tumor. Headaches that are caused by brain tumors usually have other symptoms that occur simultaneously. Double vision, vomiting, or confusion are commonly seen with headaches associated with brain tumors, but again, severe migraine sufferers can have these symptoms as well. Sometimes the headaches come while asleep, and are noticed strongly immediately upon awakening, but subside after a few hours. Brain tumors can also cause headaches that get worse with exercise or coughing.

There are several other brain tumor symptoms, neck pain included. Headaches and neck pain are common, but so are gastrointestinal problems. Vomiting is more likely to occur in cases of stem cell tumors in the brain. Often, especially in the latter stages, brain tumors cause confusion, loss of reasoning ability, speech problems, memory loss, and impaired concentration. The brain tumor may also cause the victim to sleep much more than usual. Depending on the location of the brain tumor, between fourteen and ninety-four percent of patients suffer some form of seizures. Partial seizures are not uncommon, where, for instance, only the left side of a persons body will go into a seizure. The patient may also remain conscious during a partial seizure, experiencing odd tingling sensations and confusion. Generalized seizures, as are often experienced by epileptics, are not very common in brain tumor cases.

Usually, the specific symptoms and location of a brain tumor will help a doctor diagnose its type. For example, if the tumor is a brain stem gliomas, the patient will usually suddenly develop problems swallowing, impaired hearing or vision, difficulty or clumsiness walking, vomiting after waking up in the morning, nasal or slurred speech, and muscle paralysis on one side of the face.

Brain Tumor - The Symptoms and Diagnosis

The signs of brain tumor depend on the size, location and type of tumor. Symptoms may appear whenever a tumor pushes a nerve or injures a particular area in the brain. They can also be caused if the brain enlarges or fluids build up in the skull.

Majority of the common signs of brain cancers are the following: Cancer Medicine

- Headaches (regularly worse at daybreak)

- Vomiting or nausea

- Problems in walking or balancing

- Changes in personality, mood or capacity to contemplate

- Memory problems

- Changes in vision, hearing or speech

- Muscle trembling or jerking

- Numbness or itchy feeling in legs or arms

If the symptoms indicate that there is indication of brain cancer, the doctor can do any of the subsequent procedures as basis of its diagnosis:

- Physical examination - the doctor examines general sign of health

- Neurologic examination - the physician checks the attentiveness, strength of muscle, reflexes, coordination and reaction to pain. The eyes are also examined to find out if there is any swelling due to the tumor pushing the nerve which attaches the brain and eyes.

- CT scan - an x-ray apparatus connected to computer which takes series of thorough pictures of a head. The patient is given an injection of special tint in order that the brain can be seen visibly in the picture. The picture may show growths or tumors inside the brain.

- MRI - a forceful magnet attached to computer which makes comprehensive pictures of sections in the body. These pictures are shown on a screen and can be printed also. Sometimes, a particular dye is inserted in order to help illustrate differences in the various tissues inside the brain.

The following tests are also considered to help diagnose brain tumor:

• Angiogram - a particular dye is injected to the bloodstream and runs in the blood vessels inside the brain in order for them to appear on x-ray. If a growth is present, it can be seen by the doctor.

• Skull x-ray - various forms of brain cancers cause calcium accumulation inside the brain or changes on the bones in the skull. Through x-ray, changes can be checked.

• Spinal tap - the physician may take a sample of CSF (cerebrospinal fluid - a fluid that fills up the spaces around the brain as well as the spinal cord). This is done with use of local anesthesia. The spinal tap can be done around thirty minutes. The patient lies flat within several hours after extraction of CSF to avoid headache. Laboratory test is done to check for the presence of cancer cells and other indications of problems.

• Myelogram - refers to the x-ray of the spine or spinal cord. Spinal tap is done by injecting a special dye in the cerebrospinal fluid. The patient tilts to let the dye combine to the fluid. This procedure assists the doctor discover cancer on the spinal cord.

• Biopsy - it is the removal of sample of tissue to search for cancer cells. The pathologist examines the cells under the microscope in order to verify abnormal cells. A biopsy may show tumor, tissue changes which might lead to tumor and other situations. This is the surest way in diagnosing brain cancer.

All About Cancer

Cancer is a disease in which certain body cells go out of control and start multiplying rapidly of their own accord. This uncontrolled growth becomes a tumor and eventually, if unchecked, will interfere with the working of a vital organ or organs and cause death.

It is not an infection (although in a few cases it can be caused by a viral infection) but the result, in all probability, inherited weakness in the genetic makeup, with poor living habits and surroundings. Unhealthy diet, smoking, prolonged stress, and industrial pollution, for example, are either known to be, or are strongly suspected of being, main contributory or risk factors in cancer. Cancer Medicine

The human body contains more than of some coupled 200 different types of cell, which means there are more than 200 different types of cancer. An abnormal growth may be called a tumor or a neoplasm (neo simply means "new" and plasm means "form"). A resulting illness is known as a neoplastic disorder.

If the tumor or growth is purely local and not invasive it will be described as benign. A benign growth does not spread, so is less damaging. Examples are warts, cysts, and polyps. A growth that cannot be contained and continues to spread unchecked is known as a malignant growth. This is cancer.

Medical terms given to the different sorts of cali relate to where they are growing in the body:

Carcinoma is cancer of the skin covering the outside of the body and the mucous membrane lining the cavities within (epithelial tissue). This is by far them common type of cancer and includes cancers of the, breast, lung, colon, prostate, and skin. The most serious form of skin cancer is melanoma.

Sarcoma is cancer of the bones, tendons, muscles.

Lymphoma is cancer of the glands (or nodes) or other parts of the lymphatic system

Leukemia is cancer of the blood.

Cancer differs from country to country and from region to region. Some types of cancer are more communi Western countries, such as North America and Europe, than in Eastern countries, such as Japan, or so-called developing countries such as Africa. In Japan, for example, there are many more cases of stomach cancer than there are in the West, and in Africa liver cancer is much more widespread than elsewhere. Overall, the ten most common cancers found worldwide are of the lung, stomach, breast, lower bowel, cervix, mouth, lymphatic system, liver, throat, and prostate gland. None of the therapies described offers a cure for cancer but they can alleviate symptoms and support the immune system.

Foggy Brain (Or Fuzzy-Brain) Following Chemotherapy: Is It Real or Imagined?

Previously only discussed behind closed doors; chemotherapy's aftermath of memory problems, fatigue, anger and despair are now out in the open. While chemotherapy affects each and everyone differently, by understanding what is happening during this crucial time in your life, you can establish a sense of control. With the knowledge of the physiological and psychological effects of chemotherapy treatment, you can have more confidence in your self-perceptions and can assist in your recovery. You can call upon your inner resources (and power) during and after your treatments to help heal yourself. Rest assured that this strength is at your fingertips. So, let us explore some of the explanations for what is happening to your body that will enable you to better deal with these confounding alterations in your life and very being.

First and foremost, realize that the stress that your body is under is enormous. In response to this added stress, your body produces cortisol, which is made by small walnut-sized organs above both kidneys called the adrenal glands. Imagine that you are an athlete about to compete in an event. Your heart rate increases, your muscle tone becomes exaggerated, your pupils dilate to let in light as your brain prepares to control all these events and those to come. Well, your adrenal glands are in a race. They are overworked with the stress of worrying, fears of cancer, along with your efforts to control these fears and unknown future events. You may have gone through surgery or are about to have your cancer removed. Constant stress causes your body to be in a heightened state of tension. This heightened state of arousal (tension) exacerbates your existing feelings of discomfort and vulnerability. The extra cortisol also adversely affects insulin utilization, fat, and sugar processing. You may find that getting up in the morning is difficult. You may have no energy to lift your head off the pillow and find that fatigue sets in faster and lasts longer. The adrenal glands' production of cortisol due to stress is eventually altered. This will further add to your state of depression and create abnormal responses within your brain.

The chemotherapy drugs that you presently take to control any remnants of your breast cancer drastically affect estrogen production. If you are not already menopausal, your body's hormonal balance will be thrust into a rapid state of change. Normally, the onset of menopause is a measured process that allows your body to gradually adjust to the decrease in estrogen (peri-menopausal). However, breast cancer cells are often dependent upon estrogen and, thus, part of the cure is to diminish this source of supply. With the decrease in ovarian and fat production or blockage of estrogen, comes the onset of a menopause-like state. You may find that your skin has a different texture, your sexual organs are drier, your mood has changed and there are rapid oscillations in the way you feel.

Things that normally were taken in stride now become much greater events in your life, which can, in turn, lead to a state of depression. Likewise, your body naturally produces testosterone that helps to maintain muscle and bone strength and works in conjunction with estrogen for sexual arousal. Prior to this instantaneous menopause, your testosterone levels were balanced by estrogen. Now, however, unopposed testosterone may contribute to your feelings of tension and anxiety, or it can cause you to yield to aggressive tendencies that in the past were more easily suppressed.

The brain has message transmitter hormones that are also in a state of turmoil. Your life has suddenly been altered by the discovery of breast cancer. Of course, you contemplate the worst. Surgery and chemotherapy add additional insults to your body. Your sense of worth, empowerment, and control over your life and destiny have been altered by the simple words that you have cancer. The daily pressures of life, raising and caring for a family, spousal obligations, and work activities have put you in a pressure cooker mode. Pressures, which you normally take in stride, become burdensome. This only compounds your anger, episodic mood swings and anxiety or depression. Coupled with the psychological changes are the physical manifestations that may occur due to the chemotherapy and surgery. Your personal identity is now undergoing a transformation. This is not who you are or who you have been.

Added to this is the insult of memory and learning disruption; i.e., where are my keys?, did I do that errand today? This interference in memory and learning are called cognitive loss. Studies confirm that these alterations in your thinking may indeed be real. It is likely that the burden of having breast cancer and the additional strain of going through treatments compounded by your hormonal imbalance and altered cortisol levels, may contribute to the loss of memory and learning difficulties.

Not only do cognitive alterations exist and impact upon your daily activities, but they have far-reaching effects on your family members, friends and business relationships. Some of the losses in memory and cognitive thought may even last years beyond the end of your treatment. You will be undeniably disturbed by these cognitive losses and may not know how to deal with them. This is especially true if you are told that these memory changes, physical disruptions, and social breakdowns are unique to you and not commonly shared by many women in these circumstances.

But as we know now - this is far from the truth.

We do not have all the answers, nor do we know the exact cause of these alterations. Common sense would tell us that they are attributable to many coexisting factors affecting you.

The first step towards helping yourself is to recognize that there is a problem. An honest and open discussion between you and your physicians (oncologist & surgeon) and counselor regarding your experiences and fears, needs to be brought out into the open so that you can better manage your altered lifestyle. Controlling, minimizing, or mitigating the hormonal, physical, and emotional side effects of chemotherapy is a challenge that should be embraced and understood rather than ignored or denied.

One has to realize that the art of medicine is a healing continuum that embodies learning about the disease process, formulating specific treatment options, and then redirecting these parameters to meet your personal and ever-changing needs. Treatments are far from perfect, but strides made within the past decade for curing breast cancer have been tremendous and are responsible for the continued health of countless women and men.

Treatment options are multidimensional, relying on the control of breast cancer through surgery, chemotherapy gene identification, and radiation therapy. Someday we hope to identify and isolate the genetic causes of cancer. Until such time current treatments reflect the present day state of medical research and are still the most effective that humanity has ever yet known.

The healing of the body through the mind-body connection, given the appropriate environment, is legendary. This restorative process can only occur if attended to with the awareness of the problem and the desire to help oneself. Cancer is the Gordian Knot of our era. How do we cure cancer while maintaining the stability and health of the human body?

Multi-tasking:

Multitasking, or simultaneously performing many tasks at once, may be disruptive to the thoughtful understanding of each task that your brain needs to analyze and formulate answers. Try riding five trains at the same time that are going in different directions. Which destination will you reach when traveling in such a chaotic pattern, and do you really save time? Or is it just a huge expenditure of your brain's energy? The brain may process these tasks but there is a toll that must be paid. Multiple centers of the brain light up at once when you try to do simultaneous tasks. Remember that the brain is constantly working to maintain your life functions of breathing, circulation, fighting infection, controlling muscle movement, thoughts, vision, hearing and speech to name but a few tasks.

Asking your brain to jump through hoops to satisfy your multiple comes at a cost. Multi-tasking boosts stress hormones, which are already zooming upward; wearing down your finely balanced internal system resulting in fatigue, loss of focus, and chaos. How often have you forgotten where you were driving when on the phone? A famous actress noted that she likes to save time by reading a book or watching a movie while having sex.

Emotional imbalance & Counseling:

Emotional upheaval and physical distress will affect your family. Surgery upon the breast may leave you with feelings of sexual inadequacy. It is important that you realize that you are still the same woman within and that your family and friends love you.

Anger, when directed for a reason, is healthy; however, when it is free-floating and unbridled it will eat away at you and increase your overall stress level. Reach into your inner core and find a comfortable place where you can allow your mind to be calm - the place where loved ones exist and where smiles and laughter and good times are in abundance. Extend your hand and its warmth will be met by those that care about and for you.

Your mind has an amazing ability to heal you, if you let it. No one denies that you have the right to feel badly, but wallowing in self-pity does not help your body to heal. What can be done with the feelings of isolation, frustration and anger? Confiding your feelings with a friend or counselor helps. Writing your worries down in a private journal to get them off your mind will often soften the tension and distress. Centers such as the Norma F. Pfriem Breast Care Center will be your advocate; friends await you there to direct you or just lend a hand on a bad day. Likewise, excluding your spouse, significant other, family or friends in the attempt to shelter them, often works in the reverse. Openness allows for greater understanding and compassion. They, too, want to help and may also be feeling frustrated and alone. If you isolate yourself within an impenetrable barrier, those that care about you cannot share their loving warmth. You are counseled to let them into your life to calm the energy imbalances within you.

Exercise:

Jump-start your body with daily exercise. Feelings of well being, due to increased blood and oxygen flowing through your body, are essential and add to your peace of mind. Likewise, exercising daily produces pleasing substances called endorphins, which assist in the regulation of your happiness. The stress created by your body is translated into accelerating levels of cortisol similar to that found in the runner about to start a race. Exercise is a way in which the body can reduce these levels and calm down once again.

Smoking:

Smoking steals much-needed oxygen from your muscles and brain. The 40-plus toxins and nicotine present in cigarette smoke only serve to diminish the oxygen needed to heal you. Nicotine accelerates your heart rate and shrinks down blood vessels throughout your body. This crutch will, in the long run, be more harmful than helpful. Besides robbing your body of blood flow to your internal organs, it permanently alters the quality of your skin and adds additional risks of poor health.

Nutrition:

Your body needs healthy nutritional foods that can sustain it during these added days of stress. There is nothing wrong with the occasional splurge; however, eating a balanced healthy diet will nourish your body and mind. The human body and mind are amazing; however, they need nourishment. The tendency may be to eat out of frustration. And who could blame you. But in the long run eating a diet low in saturated fats and sugars with moderated consumption of alcohol (which is a depressant), will afford you a greater opportunity to heal. Common sense tells us that water (which comprises most of our body), grains, fresh vegetables, unsaturated fats and proteins will replenish the energy source for your brain and motivate your body.

Omega 3 fatty acids are important for the nerves and brain. Fat is a large component of the cells that comprise the nervous system. Take supplements of good quality.

Vitamins such as Zinc and B complex will soothe your mind. Calcium and magnesium will nourish your bones and allow muscles to function properly. Other vitamins should be discussed with your physician prior to starting. During your treatments it is important to ask your oncologist and surgeon which vitamins are acceptable. Likewise, a consultation with a nutritionist knowledgeable about various effects of food and supplements on your treatment will be beneficial. There are numerous books that will augment your understanding of your added nutritional needs, found in bookstores or on the web.

Is chemo-brain real or imagined?

The crux is that normal patterns of forgetfulness occur with the natural aging process. When the emotional intent of the thought and reality of breast cancer is added to the mass of swirling thoughts that the brain has to master minute by minute, it is no wonder that you become overwrought. Family, business and personal obligations, fears of the unknown, and the potential ramifications, estrogen and hormonal imbalance, physical discomfort from surgery or chemotherapy, all contribute to the feeling of having a foggy brain.

You may feel fragile, confounded by the thoughts of illness. The unknown is always worse than actually knowing. Overwhelmed and distraught, your mind has no peace. Constant turmoil precludes clear thoughts. Cancer is a bummer to have. It threatens your very existence. You can overcome these dreaded events that you are going through and come out a stronger and healthier woman. It may be no solace to know that many have traveled the same path, but it does help to understand that your happiness is dependent on your outlook. Living your life, as best as you can, during this difficult time, will help your body and mind. Our cells are renewed each day, giving us the opportunity to grow and become stronger. Healing requires time, positive energy, patience and love of self. Like a paper cut upon your finger, which is initially sore, your healing will require time and soon be a part of your past.

Balance:

Try meditating. This can take various forms. Thinking and repeating to yourself that you are healthy and happy is a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Visualize yourself being well, strong and healthy. Visual imagery has been shown to affect the body in a very positive manner.

Surround yourself with friends who are calm and generally optimistic. Negative individuals give off negative energy. Positive energy buoys us up and recharges us. Would you not be more pleased to be around a person who smiles rather than a frequent frowner?

Laugher is contagious and in all likelihood calms the brain down or relieves it of tension.

Focus on what really matters to you. If you find that you are forgetful, make a list of the things that you need to remember. Busy people have a lot on their minds and need reminders. Daily stresses of living exaggerate everyone's forgetfulness.

Take a health break when you can. Stop and breathe, take a brief walk, read an enjoyable book or magazine to clear your mind.

Start a log of your journey. Record the good and the not-so-good. Not as a reminder of these events but to alleviate your mind from having to remember them. Air your thoughts in private and with your family, friends and a counselor or therapist who will guide you through this turbulent period.

Some days may be bluer than others but beautiful golden mornings and stunning sunsets await you.

With your loving family and friends on your side you will be able to reach deep within yourself to find a center of calm within what must seem like an endless storm. Take the time you need for your well being. Peace and tranquility emanates from within our central core.

Difficult as it may seem during these life altering times, having a positive approach and surrounding yourself with the warmth of your family and friends will help to overcome the hurdles faced with having breast cancer. Your mind is an amazing organ of growth and healing. Your mind and body are one. Together they have been known to accomplish unparalleled and only dreamt of deeds.

Congratulations! By endeavoring to understand yourself, you have just realized one of these amazing goals. No one will say that what you endure is easy; but with guidance and balance to your life you can and will flourish.

All Aspects of Brain Cancer Pain Management Explained

Brain cancer patients may experience an intense degree of pain when suffering from the symptoms that the abnormal cells start in the body. Those that suffer from this form of cancer already fail to have a high quality of life when the symptoms start. When pain is added to the other symptoms that the brain tumor is causing, this quality of life is reduced even more.

In most cases, the pain associated with brain cancer commonly accompanies the brain cancer treatment that the patient must undergo in order to prevent the progression of the disease. The good news is that there are many therapeutic solutions to relieving the pain that is felt. Here, you will learn about the aspects of brain cancer pain management.

Pain Risk Factors  Cancer Medicine

There are a couple of different risk factors that may lead to whether or not an individual experiences pain when they have brain cancer. It is important to know and understand that there are two main reasons why brain cancer pain may develop. The first is that it occurs naturally as the cancer progresses.

The second is that it may be a side effect of any and all treatments that are administered in order to stop the progression of the cancer or eliminate tumors associated with the cancer. As a result of the two reasons why this develops, there are many pain risk factors. They include, but are not at all limited to the following:

• Individuals that suffer from sleep complications, such as insomnia, may find that they suffer from mild to severe pain while experiencing cancer of the brain and surrounding areas.

• Those that suffer from psychological conditions such as having an intense degree or fear or anxiety may experience the symptom of pain.

• The type of cancer that is being experienced may have an impact on whether or not pain is experienced.

• The location of the cancer as well as the overall size of the tumor(s) associated with the brain cancer may result in pain among many that suffer from this condition.

Brain Cancer Pain Management

Pain management is more than simply reduce the pain that is experienced by an individual. It is also to increase the overall quality of life that a person experiences. Medical professionals believe that pain should be controlled or that the person that experiences it should alter the manner in which they perceive the pain that is experienced.

When it comes to brain cancer pain management, it is important to understand that there are pharmacological strategies and strategies that are considered to be non-pharmacological. Pharmacological steps include taking medication, having surgery done, using radiation therapy, or even indulging in chemotherapy. Non-pharmacological strategies are often natural or alternative approaches.

The Steps

When attempting to develop a brain cancer pain management program, it is important to first learn all that you are able to pertaining to the condition. You should consider how much time out of your day is spent in pain, the medical advice provided to you by your doctor and what you would like to accomplish in the pain management system. If you do this, you will be able to learn how to appropriately handle the pain that brain cancer often causes.

How to Know If You Have Brain Cancer, What is the Brain?

When trying to find out how to know if you have brain cancer, it helps to have a basic understanding of what the brain is and what role it plays in the body. The brain is described in many different ways, defined as having 5 sections by some resources and having 21 sections in other resources. The depth of the description need not be very complex for a general understanding.

 

The brain is considered the senior organ in the body and the central computer for all body functions in animals. It is composed of soft tissue, is more than 60% fat, and is located just underneath the skull. It is attached above the spinal cord and is the control point for the central nervous system in the body.

 

The brain is linked to all parts of the body by a network of nerves carrying messages back and forth whereby the brain can monitor and control all body activity. Much study of the brain has been conducted by scientists to conclude the brain controls the things we choose to have the body do (like walking and talking) as well as the things the body does automatically that we don't have to think about doing (like breathing.) The brain is also in charge of the senses of the body which are sight, hearing, touch, taste and smell. The brain is usually considered to play an important role in a person's memory, emotions and personality.

 

The brain is known to have billions of connections between it and the various parts of the body. These are the connections which pass information and instructions back and forth. The brain is the most complex part of the body. So while much is known about its function and relationship with the rest of the body, much still remains a mystery.

 

It is easy to see, therefore,  that when trying to find out if you have brain cancer how an abnormality in the brain can show up as any one of many different symptoms elsewhere in the body, depending on what part of the brain has the imperfection.

Coffee, Tea, Caffeine and Brain Cancer Risk

The information in this column is intended for informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice or recommendations by the author. Please consult with your physician before making any lifestyle or medication changes, or if you have any other concerns regarding your health.

Coffee and tea are widely enjoyed around the world, and both have been the subject of numerous health claims (most of them unproven). Tea, and green tea in particular, has been the focus of extensive research, with many prior studies suggesting that tea may improve cardiovascular health and, to a much lesser extent, may decrease the risk of some cancers. Much of the published research regarding coffee has, on the other hand, been focused on trying to disprove purported links between coffee consumption and a potential increase in the risk of some cancers. (Fortunately, the overwhelming majority of such research has not identified a strong link between moderate coffee consumption and an increased risk of cancer.)

The European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study is a huge ongoing prospective multinational public health study, and several of this enormous study's preliminary results have already been published. The EPIC study is focused on potential links between diet, nutritional status, lifestyle, and environmental factors and the incidence of cancer (among other chronic diseases). (EPIC is one of the largest studies of diet and health ever undertaken, and has already recruited 520,000 research volunteers in Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.) Now, a new update from this historic public health study suggests that increased coffee and tea consumption may be associated with a decreased incidence of malignant brain tumors. This new update from the EPIC study appears in the current issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Following an average duration of follow-up of nearly 9 years, 588 new cases of brain tumors were diagnosed among the EPIC research volunteers. Gliomas, the most common and most aggressive type of brain tumors that occur in adults, were found to be 34 percent less common among people who drank at least 100 milliliters (3.4 ounces) of coffee or tea per day. (Although not statistically significant, this association was also noted to be stronger in men, with a 41 percent lower risk of gliomas in men, as compared to a 26 percent reduction in glioma incidence in women.)

Although it is not clear what causes gliomas of the brain, prior public health studies have at least suggested a link between glioma brain tumors and chronic occupational exposure to high-intensity electrical and magnetic fields, and to rubber and plastics manufacturing. (As I discuss in "A Cancer Prevention Guide for the Human Race, there is also some data linking prolonged cell phone use with an increased incidence of gliomas and other brain tumors.)

Other smaller public health studies have also identified an apparent link between increased caffeine intake and a decreased incidence of gliomas, and there is laboratory evidence available suggesting that caffeine may reduce the growth of malignant glioma cells growing in culture dishes. Thus, these new findings from the giant EPIC study further suggest the possibility that coffee, tea, and other caffeinated beverages might be able to reduce the risk of gliomas of the brain.

For a groundbreaking overview of cancer risks, and evidence-based strategies to reduce your risk of developing cancer, order your copy of my new book, "A Cancer Prevention Guide for the Human Race," from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, Vroman's Bookstore, and other fine bookstores!

Brain Cancer Symptoms

Brain Cancer is a malignancy that can be detected and treated only with a detailed medical examination. It is not a routine ailment since in most cases it is fatal. It normally strikes when one type of the brain cell transforms and loses its normal characteristics and starts multiplying to form an abnormal mass of cells called a tumor. However, not all brain tumors are malignant. Benign brain tumors pose no threat and can be successfully removed.

The malignant brain tumors grow very aggressively and they destroy the healthy brain cells. Continuous growth of abnormal cells also increases the intracranial pressure resulting in malfunctioning of other brain organs and tissues Cancer Medicine .

There are two types of Brain Cancer. The Primary Brain Cancer originates in the brain itself and generally confines itself to the brain only. The second type is the Secondary Brain Cancer which is an extension of a cancer in some other part of the body gradually spreading to the brain.

The symptoms of brain tumor depend on the part of the brain affected i.e. the location of the tumor. There are numerous symptoms which if not cured by basic medication need to be examined in detail for indications of brain tumor. These are:

* Headaches - most common due to increased intracranial pressure as a result of the growing tumor.

* Nausea, Vomiting & Seizures.

* Difficulty in maintaining body balance.

* Short lapses in memory.

* Swelling in the brain.

* Weakness in the arms or legs or both.

* Poor motor functions.

* Slurring.

* Lowered eye vision.

* Spells of dizziness.

* Lack of coordination in speech and action.

* Numbness of limbs.

* Difficulty in recollecting events.

* Hallucinating.

* Persistent general weakness.

* Falling or stumbling.

* Changes in pupil sizes of both eyes.

* Change in gait.

* Cognitive decline.

* Mood changes.

It is advisable to see a doctor whenever you feel you have a tumor. If you do not share your concerns with your doctor, they may not get addressed timely.

Link Discovered Between Candida and Cancer

A European doctor by the name of Dr. Simoncini has made an incredible connection between Candida and Cancer that is shocking people everywhere. Both it turns out can develop through the same set of circumstances in the body. There is both good news and bad news to come of this report.

The Bad news is that if you suffer from Candida that your odds of developing Cancer are greater than those without Candida.

The Good news is that natural treatments that eliminate Candida are now proven to be highly useful in both preventing and treating Cancer developments as well.

The health circumstances responsible for Cancer and Candida are two things:

-A Lack of Oxygen throughout the body and Cancer Medicine

-Excess Fermentation within the body.

I'll explain each a little further.

A lack of oxygen throughout the body has been shown to be the major cause of virtually all illness and disease. Much of this is due to air pollution, poor breathing habits, poor dietary habits that clog up the body and prevent proper oxygen transportation between cells.

Excess Bodily Fermentation is literally the direct cause of a Candida overgrowth as it is the process through which yeast develop and toxic by products are produced within the body.

The solution to both is straightforward: Destroy Candida by Increasing oxygenation throughout the body and following natural treatments to reduce root causes of Candida and thus getting at the root of both Candida and Cancer. Fermentation cannot exist in high oxygen environments which is why oxygenation of the body is so critical. Avoid processed, yeast filled and high sugar foods as these increase fermentation and will lower bodily oxygen as well.

An easy way to begin to get more oxygen into the body is using an Ozone generator for both air and water. Ozone carries an extra oxygen molecule that can destroy Candida in the body and also clean and oxygenate the air around you. Unlike North America Ozone therapy is very common in Europe in the treatment of diseases such as Cancer!

Many people in the natural health industry have known about this connection for years but these recent professional discoveries are allowing this information to become more mainstream than ever before. This is great news considering how in the dark most people are in dealing with Cancer due to misinformation and a lack of treatment options presented in North America. Eliminating Candida has never been as important as it is now, your life depends on it!

A Cancer Cure - What Science Knows But Hasn't Told You

Has the medical established been overlooking what could be a very effective cancer cure protocol.

Is it possible that the cure for cancer or at the very least an effective cancer treatment for some reason has not been pursued by mainstream medicine? What if qualified PhD researchers have validated its efficacy? Cancer Medicine

After many decades of pursuing a cancer cure, why is it that we still don't have a treatment protocol that works in the vast majority of cases?

We probably do have that treatment protocol! How could this be possible but nobody knows about it? The tragic reality of cancer research is quite simply this. It seems that those with the money to invest in cancer research rightfully expect a significant return on that investment based on the fact that cancer research is a very costly undertaking. That expectation is reasonable enough, because people with money to invest have an expectation that they will earn a decent return on their investment.

What if a cancer cure had been discovered but if it had no likelihood of returning any payback on the investment. Would you invest additional money to put it through the necessary clinical trials? Probably not! And no sane business person in their right mind would blame you. Why? The answer really is very simple. Companies in the business of finding new treatments or cures for cancer are in reality in the business of finding cures for cancer that will return a sizable profit to their bottom line.

Let us not confuse ourselves! Cancer treatment is a "HUGE BUSINESS" which by definition means a meaningful return on every dollar invested. If it were you, would you continue to market a product that works some of the time but it has hefty returns? Or would you market a product that works most of the time but has zero returns and would effectively put you out of business?

I have no idea what your answer is but I know what their answer is likely to be. Better to make lots of money and save a few cancer patients rather than make no money and save a lot of cancer patients.

Common sense will tell most of us that if we could put a man on the moon in 10 years then it stands to reason that we should have far better treatment protocols that would result in an effective cancer cure after 70 years of clinical research.

We probably already have that cancer cure or at the very least a treatment protocol that turns cancer into a chronic disease as opposed to a death sentence.

It is our individual responsibility to determine what researchers have figured out over the last 70 years that could save our lives. But, for whatever reason mainstream medicine and organizations that conduct clinical trials have decided that it is not in their collective best interest to promote because the return on their investment just isn't worth it.

Do your homework and don't let your lack of knowledge leave you in a situation where you think you have no good options or real hope for a cancer cure!