August 27, 2008

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Cancer News and Information Center   [ Home >  Cancer >  More  Related Items ]   CANCER - ARTICLES Androgen deprivation therapy does not offer benefit in prostate cancer August 1, 2008 A new study shows that androgen deprivation therapy does not improve survival from prostate cancer among elderly men with localized disease. Given the costs and side effects of this approach, physicians need to consider carefully before offering it, given this new evidence. A new approach to pancreatic cancer July 18, 2008 Cutting off the blood supply to a tumor is the latest approach to cancer. A clinical trial shows targeting angiogenesis is safe and maybe even effective in pancreatic cancer. Radiation after surgery improves prostate cancer survival July 4, 2008 There are new findings for men facing a range of treatment options for prostate cancer. Having radiation therapy after surgery improves the chances of survival, according to a preliminary report. Exercise protects against breast cancer June 6, 2008 Physical activity protects women against breast cancer. And weight, time of life, and the type of exercise undertaken affect the amount of health benefit gained. Larger skin lesions are more likely to be melanoma May 9, 2008 Larger moles are the ones to worry about, for they are more likely to prove to be melanomas. So size should continue to be an important element in the dermatologist's assessment of a skin lesion. Men and their partners speak out on prostate cancer treatments April 25, 2008 A wide-ranging study reports on how men feel about the outcomes of prostate cancer treatments. There are many different issues which can affect quality of life and wellbeing, the researchers say. Don't rely on vitamins to ward off cancer March 10, 2008 Vitamin supplements do not provide any significant protection against cancer. Indeed, vitamin E may even increase the risk, particularly among smokers. An Early Test for Pancreatic Cancer September 11, 2007 Cancer of the pancreas is a killer, largely because by the time the diagnosis is made, it's too late for effective surgery. Now a new minimally-invasive test is in development that holds great promise. It may save many lives. Cancer Alarm Signals July 18, 2007 Four symptoms, if promptly reported, carry a good likelihood of helping in the early diagnosis of four matching types of cancer. They are: blood in the urine, blood in the sputum, difficulty in swallowing, and blood in the stool. Don't Stop Your Breast Cancer Drugs Too Soon! March 5, 2007 After their initial treatment for breast cancer, many women should take tamoxifen (or another, similar drug). In fact, failing to take the full course of treatment with tamoxifen is disappointingly common - as many as 35% of women give up within the 5-year period. This puts them at increased risk of recurrence and maybe death. After you've Finished Your Breast Cancer Treatment October 23, 2006 October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation is a valuable source of information for women who have completed their treatment for breast cancer and still have a number of questions. Here are some of them, with answers. How to Avoid Breast Cancer - What To Do In Your 20s, 30s, and 40s October 10, 2006 October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In connection with this, The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation has supplied us with a short list of steps women can take at different stages of their lives to help them reduce their chances of developing breast cancer. Genetic Testing for Disease May 8, 2006 The use of genetic testing is advancing rapidly. One of the latest approaches is testing so as to reach a diagnosis sooner than was previously possible, thus allowing earlier preventive or curative treatment. In this article we describe one of these tests, and discuss genetic testing for other purposes. Maybe Fiber Doesn't Prevent Colon Cancer . . . January 16, 2006 An analysis of well-designed studies of fiber intake in relation to colorectal cancer has failed to show a preventive effect of fiber. This result, although disappointing, is not sufficient reason to stop eating a fiber-rich diet, however. The Nine Major Risk Factors for Cancer December 19, 2005 An analysis of cancer mortality and nine modifiable risk factors makes it clear that a large proportion of deaths from cancer could be avoided. The greatest offenders are smoking, alcohol abuse, and insufficient fruit and vegetable intake. A healthy lifestyle should help most people avoid a cancer-related death . . . Milk and Ovarian Cancer - Is There a Link? September 26, 2005 There seems to be a weak link between drinking whole milk and developing ovarian cancer, according to a new analysis of collected studies. However, the calcium in milk may help protect you from the more common colorectal cancer . . . Another Benefit of Magnesium? March 24, 2005 A new study from Sweden has shown that high magnesium intake (e.g. by eating plenty of fruit and vegetables, whole grain foods, and beans) is linked to a lower risk of colorectal cancer. Ovarian Cancer - Making the Diagnosis in Time August 20, 2004 The symptoms of ovarian cancer are not very different from those reported by many women without a tumor; this makes early detection quite difficult, especially as there are no reliable screening tests . . . Alcohol and Colon Cancer - How Much is Too Much? July 2, 2004 Too much alcohol consumption has been linked to an increased risk of colon and rectal cancer, but there's been no clear idea of just how much is too much. This study goes a long way towards supplying the answer . . . How to Avoid Prostate Cancer? June 4, 2004 A new study has shown that men who ejaculate frequently are not at increased risk of developing prostate cancer. Indeed, they may well have a decreased risk, based on their lifetime sexual activity . . . Can CRP Predict Colon Cancer Risk? May 7, 2004 It's known that inflammatory bowel disease is associated with an increase risk of colorectal cancer, and plasma CRP levels reflect inflammatory changes in the body. Now there's a study that helps complete the picture, showing a direct link between CRP levels and subsequent colon cancer. HRT Alternatives and Breast Cancer May 7, 2004 Women sometimes take isoflavones to treat the symptoms of menopause. But are there risks attached to their use (e.g. a risk of breast cancer)? A Dutch study has examined this problem in a large group of women; here's a summary of the findings. Pancreatic Cancer Update April 8, 2004 Survival after surgical removal of pancreatic cancer is generally poor. A new study has compared two postoperative treatment regimens, chemotherapy and chemoradiotherapy, and found that while one is clearly beneficial, the other is actually harmful . . . . Lycopene May Reduce the Risk of Colorectal Cancer January 22, 2004 Researchers looked at three antioxidants -- lycopene, beta-carotene, and alpha-tocopherol -- and their association with colorectal precancerous growths. Lycopene, founding tomatoes and other red-colored fruit, was found to reduce the risk of adenomatous colon polyps. Fear of Lung Cancer Surgery December 19, 2003 Some people fear surgery for lung cancer, in the mistaken belief that surgery will help spread the cancer. This belief is commoner in African-Americans than in white people, according to a recent report. First Step on the Last Journey November 6, 2003 Health reporter Laura M Schmidt was 51 when she got the news that she was likely to die from pancreatic cancer within 6 to 12 months. She's decided to tell her story, hoping it may help improve communications between patients and their health professionals at this critical time. Here's the first instalment. The Woman's Health Initiative (WHI) Study and Estrogens: What Do the Results Really Mean? October 23, 2003 Dr Michael Goodman, a well-known specialist in peri-menopausal medicine, exposes some weaknesses in the WHI study that has caused many women to abandon HRT. Another Battle Won in the War Against Cancer? October 23, 2003 Women with early hormone-dependent breast cancer usually receive 5 years' of tamoxifen therapy after their initial surgery. A recurrence of cancer can still occur after this period, but a new study suggests that letrozole can halve the likelihood of this. How Does the Mediterranean Diet Promote Longevity? September 18, 2003 Research indicates that populations living in the Mediterranean region have lower rates of heart disease and death. This has been known for years. But what can be said with certainty today about the Mediterranean diet as currently consumed? Could Beta-Carotene Raise The Risk for Colon Cancer? August 21, 2003 Beta-carotene has been studied for its potential antioxidant effects, including cancer prevention. Now a new study finds that beta-carotene supplementation in people who smoke and drink may increase the risk for colorectal cancer. Obesity Increases Risk for Death from Cancer July 11, 2003 It's long been known that being overweight can increase your risk for certain chronic diseases, but a new study finds that obesity is strongly linked to death from cancer. Two New Studies Indicate Fiber May Lower Colorectal Cancer Risk July 11, 2003 The fiber-cancer connection for colorectal cancer is not fully established, but two new studies support fiber's cancer-fighting potential. A Few New Nuggets on a Very Scary Topic: Breast Cancer July 4, 2003 Dr Michael Goodman is a recognized specialist in peri-menopausal medicine. Here he discusses some of the aspects of breast cancer that trouble women today. A Raised PSA Result? Don't Panic! July 4, 2003 A raised PSA level found on routine testing shouldn't be a cause for alarm. A study summarized here shows that PSA levels vary considerably from time-to-time, and it's probably best to repeat the test before scheduling a prostate biopsy . . . Oral Thrush - What's Been Proved to Work June 5, 2003 Oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC) is a common fungal infection of the mouth and throat that's usually due to reduced immunity, such as that produced by blood cancer, treatment with chemotherapy or irradiation, and HIV/AIDS infection. This is a review of effective prevention and treatment methods. Unhealthful Diet Puts Women at Risk for Colon Cancer March 28, 2003 A new study links a "Western" diet - one that's high in red meat and refined grains, and low in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains - with an increased risk of colon cancer in women. Older Women With Breast Cancer Decline Chemo March 12, 2003 Women with many types of breast cancer are offered chemotherapy after their surgery, as recommended by a National Institutes of Health (NIH) consensus conference. However, over two-thirds of them don't actually have chemo. An analysis shows why this may be happening. Use or Avoid? Advice on Alternative Cancer Treatments February 14, 2003 Researchers summarize what is known about the effectiveness and safety of several popular alternative cancer treatment options. Garlic, Onions, Chives, and Prostate Cancer December 20, 2002 Good news for garlic lovers - a new study from China says that eating garlic and garlic-related vegetables may help reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Good Health Habits Cut Cancer Risk November 14, 2002 A new study evaluates how following the US Government's guidelines for a healthful lifestyle is effective in reducing cancer risk. Breast Cancer - Partial or Complete Breast Removal? November 4, 2002 If you have breast cancer, should you have just the tumor surgically removed, or the whole breast? Two important studies have compared the results after 20 years' follow-up. The findings are summarized here... Breast Cancer Followed by Ovarian Cancer? October 7, 2002 The same genes that are associated with a risk of breast cancer can also trigger ovarian cancer. However, for a woman with breast cancer, a careful family history of cancer in first-degree relatives (e.g. a mother or sister) can provide the same, or maybe better, warning of an increased risk of ovarian cancer as a sophisticated genetic test.... When is Watchful Waiting Appropriate for Prostate Cancer? September 27, 2002 The choices facing someone with early prostate cancer may seem overwhelming - surgery, irradiation, radium seeds, hormone therapy, or watchful waiting. A new study examines the differences between two of the more popular ones: radical prostatectomy and wishful waiting. 3-Cigarettes-a-Day Double a Woman's Risk September 5, 2002 More and more women smoke today, and many, if not most of them, are well aware of the risks involved. They'll say, "I only smoke 2 or 3 a day" or, "I don't inhale", and reason that they are not at increased risk. But they are . . . . . How to Try and Avoid Colon Cancer June 4, 2002 Just recently there has been a flurry of reports about new ways to prevent colon cancer. But which ones should you adapt? Here's a summary of the various possibilities, to help you decide. Calcium May Reduce Colon Cancer Risk in Men May 16, 2002 New research suggests that calcium may play a role in reducing the risk of colon cancer in men. Tomatoes Really Do Reduce Prostate Cancer Risk April 30, 2002 Here is more evidence that nutrient-rich tomato products seem to offer some protection against prostate cancer. Cancer of The Stomach April 23, 2002 Cancer of the stomach is often diagnosed too late for the best possible treatment to be given. Here's a summary of the main symptoms and signs . . . . Another Way to Avoid Skin Cancer April 23, 2002 We've said before that avoiding exposure to the sun is the best way to prevent skin cancer. If you didn't believe us, here's further evidence, this time from the tanning salon. Cancer of The Pancreas April 23, 2002 A diagnosis of cancer of the pancreas carries one of the poorest outlooks for malignant tumors. Smoking is one risk factor, but there are others. Here's a summary of the risk factors and the main symptoms and signs . . . . The Cancer Survivors' Bill of Rights March 7, 2002 There are over 8 million Americans who are survivors -- men, women and children who have heard a doctor say, "you have cancer," whether that was five minutes, five months, five, fifteen or twenty-five years ago. They face difficulties every day associated with their 'survivorship', so that a Bill of Rights tailored to their needs is not out of place . . . . Diet and Stress Reduction May Help in Prostate Cancer February 25, 2002 Eating a low-fat, high-fiber, vegetarian diet and practicing stress reduction techniques appears to slow the growth of prostate cancer... Recognizing Skin Cancer February 1, 2002 Skin cancer is already the commonest cancer in the USA, and it's increasing. Accurate, early diagnosis can reduce the damage caused by these tumors, while better prevention will reduce the number of cases. Here we summarize some of the features of the commonest skin tumors to help in their recognition . . . . How to Avoid Skin Cancer February 1, 2002 Avoiding exposure to the sun is the best way to prevent skin cancer. But there's more you should know about early diagnosis of suspicious areas on the skin . . . . A Better Drug for Advanced Breast Cancer? December 19, 2001 Tamoxifen, or Taxol, is a well-known drug in the treatment of advanced breast cancer. It acts by blocking the formation of estrogen, thus inhibiting the growth of hormone-dependent cancer cells. Recently a new drug in the same class, letrozole (Femara), has been shown to be superior to tamoxifen in delaying progression of the disease... Nutrients May Lower Ovarian Cancer Risk December 6, 2001 New research suggests that there may be a relationship between some foods (tomato sauce and raw carrots!) and ovarian cancer. Living with Cancer for Thirty-three Years November 28, 2001 It can't be said often enough - cancer is not always a killing disease. This is an inspiring account of one woman's 31-year battle with both breast and ovarian cancer... Obesity Linked to Risk of Pancreatic Cancer October 18, 2001 Scientists say that maintaining a healthy weight may help reduce the risk of developing this hard-to-treat form of cancer. Active Lifestyle May Reduce the Risk of Breast Cancer October 18, 2001 Canadian researchers say that a lifetime of physical activity may minimize the risk of developing breast cancer. Excess Weight Adds Health Problems, Too August 31, 2001 It's not just a cosmetic concern - being overweight makes it much harder to stay healthy. Dealing with Cancer Pain August 24, 2001 There are different types of pain in cancer. Once the pain is fully characterized, an informed choice can be made among a whole range of treatment options. We summarize here the different sorts of treatment available to help achieve the patient's comfort. Fish May Reduce Prostate Cancer Risk August 14, 2001 Eating fish may benefit more than your heart. New research suggests that fish offers protection from prostate cancer. Review: The Cancer Patient's Workbook August 3, 2001 I left this book with the head nurse at our local Cancer Treatment Center for a few days; when I went to pick it up, she told me "If I get cancer, this book is the first thing I'll buy." A remarkable new drug for chronic myeloid leukemia July 2, 2001 Chronic myeloid leukemia occurs in about 6,000 people a year in the USA. About a quarter of them die within 2 years. The treatment of choice is a bone marrow transplant, but this procedure carries severe and sometimes dangerous side effects, and often a suitable donor is lacking. A new drug, STI571, has been developed that interferes with an abnormal enzyme found in the leukemic cells of these patients, and has now been studied in two clinical trials. Smashing Myths about Breast Cancer, Part II : Do Stress and Social Support Play a Role? July 2, 2001 Researchers have tried to link stressful life events with the development of breast cancer in older women. Most studies show no connection, but the myth persists. This study of Australian women found only one combination of events that seemed to contribute to risk. It debunks the myth that any one thing -- stress, personality, or lack of support from friends and loved ones -- can cause breast cancer. Smashing Myths about Breast Cancer, Part I: Does Personality Play a Role? July 2, 2001 The "cancer prone" personality - is it real? Studies in the past may have shown a false connection between personality and breast cancer. This Australian study was the first to look at the personalities of women over 40 before they were diagnosed with breast cancer - and researchers found no link between personality style and the development of breast cancer. Another Look at Diet and Colon Cancer July 2, 2001 Scientists are not sure how diet affects the risk of colon cancer, but a new study suggests that fruits and vegetables added to a produce-poor diet may give some people an edge against the disease. Study Looks at Diet and Breast Cancer April 10, 2001 Can fruits and vegetables help reduce the risk of breast cancer? Not all by themselves, say the authors of a new Harvard study. Breast cancer in older women March 19, 2001 Two-thirds of newly diagnosed cases of breast cancer occur after the menopause. Do accompanying illnesses affect the treatment decisions and the eventual outcome in these patients? A new study from the US NIH has examined this question. How do women view their risks of major diseases? March 19, 2001 Beliefs are important because they influence the course of our actions. If we think we are at risk, we are likely to do something to prevent it. Researchers at Stanford University examined women's beliefs and perceptions of health risks among middle-aged and older women, and found that women need to be better informed about the kinds of illnesses that most affect them. Does Fiber Affect Colon Cancer Risk? November 7, 2000 Does dietary fiber affect the development of colon cancer? Scientists aren't sure, but a new study casts doubt on the cancer-fighting potential of fiber supplements. More Evidence That Diet Affects Stomach Cancer Risk November 7, 2000 A six-pack of beer a day may do more than raise your blood alcohol level--it may also increase your risk of stomach cancer. Can Carrots and Tomatoes Lower Lung Cancer Risk? November 7, 2000 Studies show that a produce-rich diet can reduce the risk of cancer. Some of this protection may come from carotenoids, the substances that give color to fruits and vegetables. A Varied Diet May Help Protect from Colorectal Cancer September 7, 2000 Sweet potato or broccoli or red pepper or carrot: which of these vegetables should you eat to lower your risk for colorectal cancer? How about some of each. A study recently published in the journal Preventive Medicine. Time for a colonoscopy? July 31, 2000 Fecal occult blood testing, barium enema and sigmoidoscopy are recognized screening methods for colorectal carcinoma. If screening gives a positive result, colonoscopy is usually the next step. Results of two recent studies suggest that colonoscopy should replace other screening methods, and be done routinely in all persons over 50 years of age . Does Diet Have a Role in Preventing Colon Cancer? June 8, 2000 Two studies published in this week's New England Journal of Medicine cast some doubt on whether the 'right diet' can protect people from colon cancer.   RELATED ITEMS When Is It Time To Contact Hospice? January 17, 2008 Older Men's Health Problems January 3, 2008 Excess Body Fat Increases Cancer Risk November 22, 2007 Make Use of Hospice Services November 8, 2007 Vitamin D, Calcium, and Cancer July 31, 2007 Vitamin E - Not Too Little, Not Too Much December 18, 2006 Garlic, Onions, and Cancer December 4, 2006 Dr Weil's Anti-inflammatory Diet January 2, 2006 Obesity Linked to GERD's Complications November 21, 2005 Breast Cancer? Get Walking! September 2, 2005 Fitness Helps Fight Prostate Cancer August 3, 2005 Is PSA Passé? June 30, 2005 Burnt Toast - Is it Dangerous? February 11, 2005 Are You Sure You Need a Pap Smear? September 17, 2004 Secondhand Smoke is Also Lethal September 3, 2004 PSA - It's the Rate of Increase That Counts September 3, 2004 Can I Bury That Broccoli? March 12, 2004 Is a Virtual Colonoscopy for You? December 19, 2003 Anxiety: The Most Misunderstood Element in End-of-Life Care December 19, 2003 Whole Grain Foods Aid Bowel Health June 5, 2003 Quality of Life on HRT March 28, 2003 How to Deal Better with Risk: The Case for Colorectal Cancer Screening (Part Two of Two) February 21, 2003 How to Deal Better with Risk: The Case for Colorectal Cancer Screening (Part One of Two) January 31, 2003 Alcohol and Hormone Therapy an Unhealthy Mix January 17, 2003 Treating Persistent Pain August 1, 2002 The Pill and Breast Cancer July 26, 2002 Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) - Now What to Do? July 26, 2002 Oxidative Damage, Part III: Nature's Approach to Protection October 29, 2001 Oxidative Damage, Part II: The Diseases it Produces October 12, 2001 Regular Exercise Keeps Women on Track July 25, 2001 Vitamin C a Major Part of '5 a Day' July 2, 2001 Lessons from a Hospice Spiritual Counselor July 2, 2001 Triumphing Over the Cigarette March 19, 2001 Using Your Head to Manage Your Chronic Pain - Part 1 March 17, 2001 Should I have a Pap smear every year? January 22, 2001 Attention must be paid! December 21, 2000 Lycopene and Its Emerging Role in Disease Prevention. December 15, 2000 Reading the Tea Leaves: They Give A Fuzzy Message December 12, 2000 Garlic: Do its medicinal properties match its gastronomic attributes? November 7, 2000 When you stop smoking October 11, 2000 Overweight reduces lifespan (really) October 12, 1999 Are cigars just as bad? June 29, 1999

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