New biomarker could play important role in colon cancer diagnosis

Author: Jamie Francis

Researchers have discovered a new biomarker that could play a key role in helping doctors to identify patients suffering from bowel or colon cancer.

According to a report by The Aurora Sentinel newspaper, researchers at the University of Colorado Cancer Centre (UCCC) have found an enzyme that can help improve diagnosis rates for bowel cancer. A total of 40 people known to be suffering from the cancer were tested for the biomarker, known as ALDH1B1. Results of the study revealed that high levels of the enzyme were discovered in 39 of those patients.

David Orlicky, a researcher at the UCCC, said that although other biomarkers for colon cancer have been identified in the past, none have been present in such high levels as ALDH1B1, nor have they been present in such a high percentage of the cancer cells.

And because of the high levels found, the researchers believe the enzyme could play an important role in helping the cancer to grow. If the enzyme was simply a by-product of the disease, then the levels of the enzyme would be lower. If the biomarker can help to accurately show at an early stage which patients are likely to suffer from bowel cancer, it could prove to be massively beneficial to millions of people around the world. The sooner a patient can start receiving treatment, the better the prognosis.

Further research is now being carried out in Colorado in order to discover more about the enzyme and how it might be used to help in the fight against colon cancer. Vasilis Vasiliou, PhD, professor of molecular toxicology at the UCCC, said the team at the university is now focused on drug development. They want to create a substance that could turn into a toxic compound when it reacts with the enzyme, killing the cancer cells.

Statistics show that almost 40,000 people were diagnosed with bowel cancer in the UK in 2008. This equates to an average of 110 people every single day, making the disease the third most common form of cancer in Britain today. Across the world, an estimated 1.24 million people were diagnosed with the disease in 2008.

But there is also good news. Five-year survival rates for bowel cancer have doubled over the last 40 years, and half of all patients diagnosed with the disease now survive for at least 10 years.

New cancer href="http://science.thomsonreuters.com/info/biomarkers/">biomarkers are being found all the time thanks to biomarker research and more is being understood about the disease as a result.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/cancer-articles/new-biomarker-could-play-important-role-in-colon-cancer-diagnosis-4554475.html

About the Author

Colon Cancer, Treatment and Prognosis

Author: Trenton Singleton

Colon cancer is also called as colorectal cancer. Colon cancer is referred as malignant tumor in which there will be an unusual growth of cells inside the colon or rectum than the required rate. Colon cancer starts from the inner lining of the large intestine, this is the common part for the occurrence of colon cancer. So removal of these colonic polyps can prevent from the occurrence of colon cancer.

It is often referred to as colorectal cancer. Colon cancers usually are adenocarcinomas, which mean that they begin in cells releasing mucus and other type of fluids.

Colon cancer is responsible for most of the deaths elated to cancer, but doctors say that an early diagnosis can reduce the risk. Immediate action can also lead to full cure of a patient. The risk of having colon cancer increases, if you have cancer elsewhere in your body.

Apart from the above stated reasons, the risk of having colon cancer also depends on your diet. Doctors say that chances of colon cancer may increase, if you are having red meat and a high fat with low fibre diet. Some genetic syndromes may be also responsible in developing colon cancer.

There is not an absolute method for preventing colon cancer. Still, there are steps an individual can take to dramatically lessen the risk or to identify the precursors of colon cancer so that it does not manifest itself. People who turn age 50, and all of those with a history of colon cancer in their families, should speak with their physicians about the most recent screening recommendations from physician and cancer organizations.

Colon cancer is preventable. The most important step towards preventing colon cancer is getting a screening test. Colon cancer is caused by the abnormal growth of cells in the lining of the bowel. Usually small lumps called polyps begin to form.

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer killer overall and third most common cause of cancer-related death in the United States in both males and females. Who is at risk for colorectal cancer. It is most common in people over age 50. Colon cancer is easily treated, and even cured in some cases, if lesions are caught early. The problem is that most people don't know they are harboring cancerous growths, since the disease has very few symptoms.

While you are doing your colon cleanse, make sure you are getting plenty of sleep and exercise. Exercise is believed to reduce the risk of colon cancer. Light exercise is also a good way of getting the blood circulating in your body. Gentle, no-impact exercise safe and beneficial for people of all ages. There are tons of exercise programs and plans out there, or just walking for at least 12-15 minutes a day is beneficial to the colon function.

A significant protective factor is adequate dietary calcium intake during the period of maximum growth, ages 9 and 25 years, so that proper peak bone mass is achieved by age 20and 30 years and maintained until mid-life, with only slow bone loss in the following years. As already noted, dietary surveys indicate a significant gap between the recommended calcium intake and the actual intake in the United States in the critical years of adolescence and young adulthood and later in life.

Resource:

Symptoms and Treatments of Colon Cancer
Symptoms and Treatments of Colon Cancer

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/colon-cancer-treatment-and-prognosis-4367603.html

About the Author

For more information, visit Colon cancer inforrmation site

How Dangerous Is Breast Cancer

Author: Charlene Nuble

How dangerous is breast cancer? Well, breast cancer is really dangerous but there are now lots of treatments available. You’re free to choose between conventional treatments and alternative treatments. Through accurate diagnosis, the doctor can provide you with the proper treatment plan that can cure your cancer.

If you were diagnosed with breast cancer many years ago, it would have been a hopeless case. Thanks to the developments in the medical industry, the cancer treatments today are very effective and the survival rates are also high.

Most cancer patients are women but there are also men who develop the disease. In the US alone, more than 200,000 people are diagnosed breast cancer. Breast cancer is also the leading cause of deaths among women and it is also the highest so far as compared to other types of cancer. Women who are already in their menopause stage are prone to breast cancer; not only that, women taking HRTs and pills are also susceptible to the disease. Excessive alcohol intake and being overweight can also lead to cancer. Certain genes cause breast cancer and if one of these genes is present in your family, you’re at high risk.

When you have breast cancer, the tissues in your breast are already cancerous. It usually appears like a lump or tumor in the breast area. Not all lumps in the breast area are cancerous because some of them are just normal lumps but you need to be sure.

Some of the symptoms of breast cancer are swelling or lump in the breast, increased breast size, change in color or dimpling of the skin, and unusual nipple discharge. In order to cure breast cancer, early detection is vital. When the cancer has reached the advanced stage or Stage 4, it will be a bit difficult to treat.

There are different ways to detect breast cancer. Every year, you can undergo a medical exam conducted by a doctor. Women over 40 years can undergo mammogram or ultrasound. Doctors usually employ biopsy to determine if the lump or mass is cancerous. Some individuals also conduct BSE wherein they examine their breasts for any abnormality.

Some of the treatments available for treating breast cancer are surgery, chemotherapy, hormone treatment, and radiation therapy. If you find these treatments quite costly, you can opt for alternative treatments like natural medicines and homeopathy.

Since breast cancer is considered a dangerous disease, prevention is the key to stop its development. Some of the treatments can damage the body and so the patients often feel exhausted and stressed. For those who want to feel relaxed instead of tired, they can undergo a massage therapy or any other alternative treatment. Prevention is still better than cure and this applies to all kinds of health problem. If breast cancer runs in your genes and if you’re already aging, you need to be more aware if there are any changes in your breasts. Keep in mind that breast cancer does not discriminate.

So what are you waiting for? Have your breasts examined if you’re suspicious of any lump or mass in your breast. How dangerous is breast cancer? It can cause you your life so don’t take it lightly. Many people die of breast cancer and if you don’t want to end up like them, examine your breast area regularly.

About the Author:

Charlene J. Nuble is a healthcare professional who loves writing about women's issues, parenting and other health related stuffs. Click on the link to learn more about How Dangerous is Breast Cancer...

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/diseases-and-conditions-articles/how-dangerous-is-breast-cancer-793700.html

New Throat Cancer Treatment

Author: Drrao

Throat cancer is one of the cancers which occur in the throat. This is disease is found with different names like vocal cord cancer, throat cancer, laryngeal cancer, cancer of the glottis. This is the cancer which is found in both men and women.

The throat cancer is the cancer which appears in the upper part of the throat. It is the cancer which appears in the throat that is vocal cords, voice box (larynx), or other areas of the throat. This cancer spreads not only occurs in the other parts of the throat also. This is cancer which can occur in both men and women. This cancer involves the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells that have mutated from normal tissues. This growth can kill when these cells prevent normal function of vital organs or spread throughout the body, damaging essentials systems.
For more information meet: dr jack
This throat cancer has some alternate names like vocal cord cancer, laryngeal cancer, cancer of the glottis, cancer of the pharynx, vocal cord cancer and others. This cancer as it occurs to the throat and the parts related to it so it is named after it. This cancer also occurs when the normal cells undergo a transformation whereby they grow and multiply without normal controls. This cancer involves tumors on the tonsils, vocal cords, voice box (larynx) and at the base of the tongue.
The main cause for the exposure for this cancer is the consumption of the tobacco that plays a significant role in many of the cases. The causes for this cancer are the heavy smoking of cigarettes, chewing tobacco, excessive use of alcohol is also one of the causes for its occurrence. But if the man is addicted to both smoking and consuming alcohol then he is at higher risk of getting the disease. But this is more occurred in men than women. This disease can occur to any age but mainly occurs to the age group who is above 45 of age.

This can be controlled with herbal products Some of the other factors for the occurrence of this cancer are the enlargement of the thyroid gland called chronic goiter. This cause may be due to the radiation exposure and the family history of cancer or the genetic predisposition.

The symptoms of the hoarseness, sore throat, neck pain, difficulty in swallowing, swelling in the neck, unintentional weight loss, cough, coughing up blood, abnormal breathing sounds, numbness or the paralyses of the muscles in the face, swelling of the jaw, shortness of breath, chest pain and many other reasons also. This cancer also has some of the common symptoms like fever, chills, night sweats, weight loss, loss of appetite, fatigue, malaise.
The above symptoms are not to be considered as a serious one as these may also be the causes for some of the common health upsets also. But if the person is adult then he has to undergo a medical checkup and have a take care of his health.
The signs and tests can be done when an examination of the neck and the throat may show the cancer of the throat. The symptom may appear bloody or lump on the throat which appears on the outside of the neck. Biopsy and the analysis of tissues that appear abnormal may conform the presence of the cancer tumor.
If you experience any of the above throat cancer symptoms it is advised that you see your healthcare provider for a more thorough check so the proper diagnose and treatment can be apply in the initial stage.
the best way of preventing this cancer is to quit smoking and preventing the consumption of tobacco.

Many cancers can be prevented by avoiding risk factors such as excessive exposure to sunlight and heavy drinking. We should cultivate a habit of taking healthy diet that is the consumption of fresh vegetables and fruits. Keeping the health fit by doing the exercises, meditation, yogasanas, cultivation of morning jog or walk, having the nutritious food in the diet, protecting ourselves from bad atmosphere may make us to be free from the diseases also.
Some people at high risk for developing certain cancers can take medication to reduce their risk. But yet the treatment must be aimed at destruction of the cancer and prevention of its spread to other parts of the body. The treatment of the cancer depends on certain issues like the age of the patient, general health condition, the size of the tumor, extent of the cancer and others.
This is the cancer which may be found at its advanced stage. So it is an urge need that the patient should be careful while choosing the correct physician for his treatment. This treatment is aimed at destruction of the cancer and prevention of spread of the cancer to the other parts of the body. The earlier it is diagnosed the earlier it is treated.
Treatment is aimed at destruction of the cancer and prevention of spread of the cancer to other parts of the body. The earlier throat cancer is diagnosed, the better the prospect of recovery. If the treatment is not given then it can grow and can cause to death. So it is better to get treated at its initial stage. The treatment needs long term recovery but if have a hope of conquering it then you can have it. You should be mentally firmed and be prepared to achieve in curing it.
The people who come to our center have a hope of curing the disease and becoming healthy. We support you with this attitude of yours as we use the alternative supplements which are natural and cure the disease with no side effects with miraculous improvements in your health condition. We make you feel ease and get away from your suffer.

About the Author:

Dr Jack is a Conventionally Trained Western Medical Doctor from India and fellow of American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). He is also trained in traditional supplements since the age of 5 years to practice complimentary alternate supplements.
For more information contact: dr jack

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/alternative-medicine-articles/new-throat-cancer-treatment-59444.html

List of Facts About Cancer - Breast

Author: K Ngo

Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women not including skin cancer. During 2008, an estimated 182,460 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to occur among women and about 1,990 new cases in men in the US. Breast cancer rates have decreased about 3.5% per year since 2001-2004 and may reflect the reduction in use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). The 2002 publication of the Women's Health Initiative linked HRT use to increased risk of heart diseases and breast cancer. In addition to invasive breast cancer, there are 67,770 new cases of situ (not yet spread) breast cancer are expected among women in 2008. Situ breast cancer incidence rates have stabilized since the late 1990s, reflecting the recent drop in mammography utilization.



An estimated 40,480 women and 450 men breast cancer patients are expected to die in 2008. Breast cancer ranks second (after lung cancer) as a cause of cancer death in women eve though it has decreased steadily since 1990. Progress in both early detection and improved treatment with contributes to the decrease.



A mammogram can detect earliest sign of breast cancer. The abnormality, painless mass in the breast may not be felt by the woman or a healthcare professional. Other less common symptoms may include persistent changes to the breast: thickening, redness swelling, skin irritation, distortion, tenderness or scaliness. Nipples also have abnormalities like retraction, ulceration, and or spontaneous discharge.



Women have the greatest risk in getting breast cancer. Age is another important factor. Risk can also increased by inherited genetic, a family history of breast cancer, high breast tissue density, and high-dose radiation to the chest, usually related to other medical procedure. Reproductive factors also increase the risk: menstrual periods that start early and or end late in life, prolong use of oral contraceptives, having the first child after age 30 or never have children. If a person is overweight or obese after menopause, use of postmenopausal hormone therapy (estrogen and progestin combined), inactivity and drinking more than one alcoholic beverages per day, be extra careful because these are factors that increase breast cancer risk. Being active, maintaining a healthy body weight, breastfeeding are all associated with lowering the risk of breast cancer.



The 5-year relative survival rate for malignant cancer that has not spread to the lymph nodes or other location outside the breast has increased from 80% in the mid 1900 to 98% today. The recent 5-year survival rate is 84% for cases with cancer has spread regionally. For women with metastases cancer (spread to distant parts of the body), the 5-year survival rate is 27%.



Breast cancer screening has proved to reduce breast cancer mortality. 61% of breast cancer is diagnosed at a localized stage and the 5-year survival rate is very impressive at 98% due to timely access to high quality follow-up and treatment.



Other than genetic gene, there is a lot we can do to prevent cancer development. Maintaining a healthy and balance lifestyle including manage stress, eat right, take vitamins, stay fit and pay attention to the environment where you live and work. The air you breath and the water you drink have a lot to do with your health.

About the Author:
About 70% of the bodies' weight is water. It is the very thing the body needs most. Water is accountable for many body functions. Drinking enough clean and fresh water not only improves your overall health and well-being, it may also prevent you from many ailments, sicknesses and cancer development. The quantity and quality of the water you drink are equally important.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/cancer-articles/list-of-facts-about-cancer-breast-779582.html

A Cancer Survivor Story: Meeting Other Cancer People

You meet a stranger and for some reason in that moment you mention you are cancer survivor and find out they're also a survivor or presently going thru treatment. Cancer survivors and patients have a way of running into each other. I would encourage you to focus on conveying hope in those moments. And also, to be careful not to judge their treatment options or push them with your ideas of post-treatment choices. If they are doing something that is different than your approach, let it be; be grateful that you found each other.

Let them talk about their experience. You can get so excited about meeting another cancer person that you want to talk and talk! They want to be heard and identify with you just as much you do with them! If they are in the middle of treatment offer them all the encouragement you can give them. If they inquire if you got sick and you did, I would say, "Yes, but you know people who didn't, that every one has a different experience with chemo or radiation." Don't put in their head they are going to get sick. This is important.

Ask them questions about how they are feeling. Remember there are questions as cancer survivor that you would only know to ask. And there are answers you can give that only a cancer survivor can offer.

Remember to keep listening, feeling their heart. There is unspoken language between cancer people. The most powerful communication is always non-verbal. At the end of your talk, if it feels right, give them a hug. And if it feels appropriate give them some pamphlet or phone number on a referral to other modalities. Give them your email in case they need any support. Email is always a good option; it's easier to contact someone this way.

When its time to say goodbye to another cancer survivor sometimes I hear myself saying, "We made it, brother/We made it, sister!" And then I think that's right, I did! If they are in treatment I say, "When I get up in the mountains on my next hike, I will say a big prayer for you." Then without intending it, I find myself holding their eyes with mine for a long moment. I think in that split second, I am conveying to them,"You can do it. Don't give up. Be tough. You're not alone. I understand. I understand."


About The Author-- Gregory Drambour is the author of THE WOODSTOCK BRIDGE, the well-acclaimed book about Native American Spirituality. He is the owner of Sedona Sacred Journeys and guide on your Sedona Retreat or Cancer Retreat For more inspirational stories go to: Sedona Sacred Journeys

Article Source: Articles island - Free article submission and free reprint articles

Oral Cancer Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

Oral cancer is generally described as cancer of head and neck. It can affect any part of the mouth like tongue, cheeks, lips, hard palate, soft palate, floor of the tongue, internal lining of the cheeks, gums, lymph nodes etc. the most common form of oral cancer is squamous cell carcinoma which affects the flat skin like lining of the mouth. 90 mouth cancer patients have been detected with this form of mouth cancer.

There are other types of oral cancers affecting different areas of the mouth like the salivary gland cancer affecting the saliva producing gland, lymphoma which is caused in lymph around the tonsils and base of tongue and melanoma affecting the skin pigmentation cells around the mouth and lips.

Causes:

The causes of skin cancer are many and can t be restricted to anything in particular. Few major causes of oral tumor are smoking (cigarettes, pipe, hand rolled cigarettes like bidis or the one containing canabis) , alcohol, chewing of tobacco, beetlenut, gutka or pan, UV rays from sun which affects lips or pale skin and at times previous cancer which might reoccur. Other probable causes are poor dietary habits lacking essentially zinc, vitamin A, C, E, selenium .infection from HPV (human papilloma virus) which generally infects vulva, vagina and cervix.

Symptom:

The symptoms for oral cancer are very general which might sometimes turn out to be some other disease but nevertheless it is better to go to a dentist or a general physician or ENT specialist to rule out any possibility. The few visible symptoms are: white or red patch on the lips, inside of the mouth or around mouth which has been there for long , loose teeth, bleeding from mouth, soreness of lips and tongue, swelling in mouth, swelling in throat, ulcer of mouth and lips, a lump or thickening of lips mouth or tongue.

Treatment:

After mouth cancer has been established using X Rays, MRI scan, endoscopy, CT scan and biopsy confirms the multiplicity of cells then the medical practitioner suggests treatment based on the physical stat and age of the patient, extent of infection and location of infection. Radiotherapy is commonly used method where radiation is used to destroy the cancerous cell in the affected area. At times surgery is performed to insert radioactive pellets in or around the tumor which gradually destroys the infected cells.

Surgery is another method used to remove the tumor from the infected area. It may be performed before or after radiotherapy. Chemotherapy is another treatment used for destroying cancerous cells. Anti cancerous drugs are used to shrink the tumor and later on surgery is performed to remove the infection. Time period of treatment and the strength of the medicine are dependent on the extent of infection.

Oral cancer is very common and can be avoided by taking care of ones lifestyle. Excessive intake of alcohol and cigarettes etc should be avoided. Chewing of tobacco should be strictly avoided and nutritious food should be incorporated in daily diet. After all health is wealth.

To Your Health!
Author Resource:- http://www.womenscenter.com/ Dr. James S. Pendergraft opened the Orlando Women's Center in March 1996 to provide a full range of health care for women. http://www.womenscenter.com/

Article From ArticleSlide.com