Prostate Cancer - Symptoms Treatment And Diet

If you have prostate cancer, are concerned about getting it, or if you’re looking out for the health of someone you love, this article can help. Prostate cancer is normally a slow growth cancer that can take years before it becomes deadly. The prostate is a small, walnut-sized structure that makes up part of a man’s reproductive system; it wraps around the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body - because of this can cause various urinary problems.

Like other cancers, the cause of prostate cancer is not known; it appears to be more common in African American men and men with a family history of the disease. In Portland Oregon, there is a three-year Oregon Health & Sciences University study; leaders hope to come up with an exercise program to benefit men dealing with prostate cancer who are on testosterone-lowering medications. Many men, especially those later in life have made the decision with their doctors to simply watch and wait.

If you have one or more prostate cancer symptoms, you should see a qualified doctor as soon as possible. Most prostate cancer symptoms, although associated with prostate cancer, are more likely to be connected to non-cancerous conditions. There are other symptoms that may not be mentioned here.

Blood in the urine or semen and frequent pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, or upper thighs can be symptoms of cancer. There are a few symptoms to be aware of. Because prostate cancer symptoms can mimic other diseases or disorders, men who experience any of these symptoms should undergo a thorough work-up to determine the underlying cause of the symptoms.

A prostate gland biopsy usually confirms the diagnosis. CT scans may be done to see if the cancer has metastasized (spread). When a digital rectal exam is performed it often reveals an enlarged prostate with a hard, irregular surface.

A number of tests may be done to confirm a diagnosis of prostate cancer. A urinalysis may indicate if there is blood in the urine, which may or may not be related. A PSA test with a high level can also be from a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland.

Some drugs with numerous side effects are being used to treat advanced prostate cancer, blocking the production of testosterone, called chemical castration; it has the same result as surgical removal of the testes. Since prostate tumors require testosterone to grow, reducing the testosterone level is used to prevent further growth and spread of the cancer. Surgery, called a radical prostatectomy, removes the entire prostate gland and some of the surrounding tissues.

Prostate cancer that has spread (metastasized) may be treated conventionally with drugs to reduce testosterone levels, surgery to remove the testes, chemotherapy or nothing at all. Surgery, radiation, hormonal therapy and chemotherapy all have significant side effects; know fully what they are before you proceed. Anyone considering surgery should be aware of the benefits, risks and the extent of the procedure.

In the early stages, surgery and radiation may be used to remove or attempt to kill the cancer cells or shrink the tumor. What you can do now is begin to understand what exactly your treatment options are and where you’re going to begin. Side effects of chemotherapy drugs depend on which ones you’re taking and how often and how long they’re taken.

Surgery is usually only recommended after thorough evaluation and discussion of all available treatment options. Besides hormonal drugs, hormone manipulation may also be done by surgically removing the testes. The approaches to treatment include: just ever watchful waiting to see whether the cancer is growing slowly and not causing any symptoms.

Drink freshly made carrot juice every day that you make in a juicer or juice extractor. Add a small handful of kale or spinach to your fruit smoothie and blend– know one will ever know. Make highly nutritious raw applesauce using a food processor and put in 3-4 cored pesticide-free apples, with the skin on, and mix for a minute; so much better for you than canned highly processed applesauce and add 1/4 tsp. cinnamon or two tablespoons of freshly ground flaxseed for another boost.

Make smoothies with fruit only, using a base of two bananas, adding a cup of frozen or fresh blueberries and mango chunks or substitute any other fruit and add an energy boost of two tablespoons of coconut oil; add one or two leaves of kale for another highly nutritional boost. If you’re not already doing so, make a serious effort to watch your diet closely. Eat foods that contain the essential fatty acids.

Consider taking cod liver oil or fish oil supplements every day. Studies done on antioxidant vitamins question their value when not contained in food; it’s clearly better to consume these antioxidants in living foods because they may also need to work with other nutrients present in the foods to work properly. Supplements that help any disease or ailment include vitamin B12 — the methylcobalamin type not cyanocobalamin, and sub-lingual — dissolves slowly under the tongue; and vitamin D3 - especially if you can’t get a daily dose of 15 to 20 minutes of sun on your arms and legs so you can make your own vitamin D3.

In the end, only you with the help of your doctors, knowing your individual situation, can determine the best treatment program for you. With the advent of PSA testing, most prostate cancers are now found before they cause any symptoms. While the number of men diagnosed with prostate cancer remains high, survival rates are also greatly improving; perhaps because of dietary improvement.

For more information on prostate cancer treatments and prostate cancer symptoms go to Helen Hecker R.N.’s http://www.BestProstateHealthTips.com
specializing in prostate and prostate cancer tips, advice and resources including information on prostate tests and natural prostate cancer treatments

March 5, 2008 | Filed Under Cancer | Leave a Comment

Prostate Cancer - Know What To Look For And What You Can Do

The prostate gland is located directly beneath the bladder and in front of the rectum. About one man in six will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime, but only one man in 34 will die of the disease. Prostate cancer is simply a malignant tumor of the prostate gland.

Many men, especially those later in life have made the decision with their doctors to simply watch and wait. About 80 percent of men who reach the age of 80 have prostate cancer. At an advanced age, the risks of surgery for prostate cancer or other more radical treatments may actually be worse than the disease.

One prostate cancer symptom is difficulty starting urination or holding back urine. Having one or more cancer symptoms does not necessarily mean that you have prostate cancer. One of the most common symptoms is the inability to urinate, get checked right away.

The need to urinate frequently, especially at night is another symptom. There are other symptoms that may not be mentioned here. Some men will experience symptoms that might indicate the presence of prostate cancer.

A urinalysis may indicate if there is blood in the urine, which may or may not be related. A PSA test with a high level can also be from a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. Another test usually used when prostate cancer symptoms are present is a digital rectal exam (DRE) performed by the doctor, proctologist or oncologist.

A chest x-ray may be done to see if there’s a spread of cancer. A bone scan can indicate whether the cancer has spread or not. A number of tests may be done to confirm a diagnosis of prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer that has spread (metastasized) may be treated conventionally with drugs to reduce testosterone levels, surgery to remove the testes, chemotherapy or nothing at all. Since prostate tumors require testosterone to grow, reducing the testosterone level is used to prevent further growth and spread of the cancer. Medicines can be used to adjust the levels of testosterone; called hormonal manipulation.

Treatment options can vary based on the stage of the tumor. Besides hormonal drugs, hormone manipulation may also be done by surgically removing the testes. Surgery, radiation, hormonal therapy and chemotherapy all have significant side effects; know fully what they are before you proceed.

A new therapy is on the forefront that recruits the body’s own immune system cells to destroy tumors that could become a new way to treat men with advanced prostate cancer — if the FDA approves the highly individualized treatment. Side effects of chemotherapy drugs depend on which ones you’re taking and how often and how long they’re taken. The approaches to treatment include: just ever watchful waiting to see whether the cancer is growing slowly and not causing any symptoms.

The conventional treatment of prostate cancer is often controversial. Recent improvements in surgical procedures have made complications occur less often. Anyone considering surgery should be aware of the benefits, risks and the extent of the procedure.

Supplements that help any disease or ailment include vitamin B12 — the methylcobalamin type not cyanocobalamin, and sub-lingual — dissolves slowly under the tongue; and vitamin D3 - especially if you can’t get a daily dose of 15 to 20 minutes of sun on your arms and legs so you can make your own vitamin D3. For natural treatment for the prostate make an appointment with a naturopathic doctor, called a naturopath; ask around for referrals. If you’re not already doing so, make a serious effort to watch your diet closely.

For snacks, choose raw nuts without salt instead of lifeless roasted nuts. Studies done on antioxidant vitamins question their value when not contained in food; it’s clearly better to consume these antioxidants in living foods because they may also need to work with other nutrients present in the foods to work properly. Many men have lowered their PSA levels by eating a diet of living foods.

Eat a lot of fruits and veggies every day, not just a token banana or apple. A good dietary, natural treatment approach is to avoid all acidic inflammatory foods; those are foods that aren’t alive. Some foods and beverages to avoid that are inflammatory are: caffeine, salt, sugar, meat, dairy products, additives, soft drinks, white flour, white rice, alcoholic beverages, fast food, processed vegetable oils, and refined, packaged and processed food.

Evidence indicates that many patients detect cancer at an earlier stage because of annual screening, so make sure to get a good exam. The one thing that you should not do however is rely on information obtained from the Internet to make your final decision; double-check everything. Make sure to read everything you can about natural and conventional treatment online and offline.

March 5, 2008 | Filed Under Cancer | Leave a Comment

Your Guide To Prostate Cancer And Natural Treatment

If you have prostate cancer, are concerned about getting it, or if you’re looking out for the health of someone you love, this article can help. Many men, especially those later in life have made the decision with their doctors to simply watch and wait. Prostate cancer is simply a malignant tumor of the prostate gland.

Early prostate cancer is confined to the prostate gland itself; most of the patients with this type of cancer can live for years without any problems. About one man in six will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime, but only one man in 34 will die of the disease. The main job of the prostate gland is to make seminal fluid, the milky substance that transports sperm.

Other symptoms might include unintentional weight loss and lethargy. There are a few symptoms to be aware of. Most prostate cancer symptoms, although associated with prostate cancer, are more likely to be connected to non-cancerous conditions.

The need to urinate frequently, especially at night is another symptom. There are other symptoms that may not be mentioned here. Having one or more cancer symptoms does not necessarily mean that you have prostate cancer.

A bone scan can indicate whether the cancer has spread or not. One downside to PSA testing is that health care providers are detecting and treating some very early-stage prostate cancers that may never have caused the patient any harm. A urinalysis may indicate if there is blood in the urine, which may or may not be related.

CT scans may be done to see if the cancer has metastasized (spread). A number of tests may be done to confirm a diagnosis of prostate cancer. The decision about whether to pursue a PSA test should be based on a discussion between you and your doctor.

Prostate cancer that has spread (metastasized) may be treated conventionally with drugs to reduce testosterone levels, surgery to remove the testes, chemotherapy or nothing at all. Medicines can be used to adjust the levels of testosterone; called hormonal manipulation. Surgery, radiation, hormonal therapy and chemotherapy all have significant side effects; know fully what they are before you proceed.

Hormone manipulation is mainly used as a treatment to relieve symptoms in men whose cancer has metastasized (spread). If chemotherapy is decided upon after the first round of chemotherapy, most men receive further doses on an outpatient basis at a clinic or physician’s office. Chemotherapy medications are often used to treat prostate cancers that are resistant to hormonal treatments.

In patients whose health makes the risk of surgery unacceptably high, radiation therapy is often the chosen conventional alternative.
Urinary incontinence can be one of the possible complications of surgery. An oncologist, a cancer specialist, will usually recommend treating with a single drug or a combination of drugs.

Besides hormonal drugs, hormone manipulation may also be done by surgically removing the testes. Anyone considering surgery should be aware of the benefits, risks and the extent of the procedure. Radiation therapy is used primarily to treat prostate cancers classified as stages A, B, or C.

Many men have lowered their PSA levels by eating a diet of living foods. Concentrating on a diet of predominately fruits and vegetables (preferably uncooked) and no junk food, should give you an observable improvement in your health within 30 days. Studies done on antioxidant vitamins question their value when not contained in food; it’s clearly better to consume these antioxidants in living foods because they may also need to work with other nutrients present in the foods to work properly.

Use flaxseed oil or walnut oil in your daily dark green salad. For an easy fiber boost, mix in two tablespoons of ground up flaxseeds in raw applesauce, from 2-3 apples, made in your food processor. Supplements that help any disease or ailment include vitamin B12 — the methylcobalamin type not cyanocobalamin, and sub-lingual — dissolves slowly under the tongue; and vitamin D3 - especially if you can’t get a daily dose of 15 to 20 minutes of sun on your arms and legs so you can make your own vitamin D3.

If possible eliminate all hormone-containing foods like meat and dairy from your diet. For natural treatment for the prostate make an appointment with a naturopathic doctor, called a naturopath; ask around for referrals. Buy lacinato kale and juice it in your juicer with sweet carrots.

Make sure to read everything you can about natural and conventional treatment online and offline. Consider sites, such as this one, just a starting point where you can begin to learn more about prostate cancer. If you’ve already been diagnosed with prostate cancer, essential the option that’s best suited to you and your continuing good health.

March 5, 2008 | Filed Under Cancer | Leave a Comment

About Antibodies for Cancer Prevention

The latest discoveries in medical technology are using certain antibodies for cancer prevention. These medical miracles are called monoclonal antibodies, or “Mabs”, and can be used to help ward off all kinds of cancers. The technology to aid doctors and nurses fight cancer has only come about within the last several decades. Further research continually turns up more and more Mabs, providing hope for those who have already developed cancer and for those who are trying to protect themselves from it.

The American Cancer Society’s (AMC) web site explains that monoclonal antibodies were first developed in laboratories using mice with myeloma cells, which is a kind of bone marrow cancer, and mice that produced specific antibodies for those cells. The combination of these two cells, called a hybridoma cell, forces a perpetual factory making antibodies.

The antibodies end up being identical clones of the original hybridoma cell, which is why they are called monoclonal antibodies. The problem scientists faced with this phenomenal finding was that human antibodies recognized the mouse-produced antibodies as foreign invaders and attacked them.

With hard work and dedication, scientists are continuing to develop ways to integrate human antibodies in lieu of mouse antibodies so cancer patients will be able to use the immunotherapy as a form of treatment.

Today there are two types of Mabs, naked and conjugated. The difference between these two lies in the fact that naked antibodies lack radioactive materials attached to them. Conjugated antibodies, on the other hand, are fused with a chemotherapy drug or other toxin used to fight off cancer cells.

In recent years the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several Mabs, both naked and conjugated, for cancer treatments. A list of approved Mabs is available through the ACA’s web site. In 2004 and in 2006, Bevacizumab, a naked antibody, was approved for treating certain types of breast cancers.

In 2001 the FDA approved the use of Alemuzumab, a naked antibody, which acts as a form of leukemia prevention by attaching itself to both B and T cancer cells, causing the body’s immune system to attack and kill them. In 2000, the FDA approved the use of a conjugated antibody, Gemtuzumab ozogamicin, which is used in the treatment of chronic leukemia.

If you have lost someone to cancer or know someone suffering from cancer, it is not hard to understand how crucial medical research is when it comes to finding antibodies for cancer prevention. The number of cancer victims continues to rise each year, hitting people of all ages.

With the prolonged use and approval of Mabs, these numbers may begin to decline, alleviating the fear everyone has about developing some form of the deadly disease. Diet and exercise will only help an individual a certain amount, leaving genetics and medical breakthroughs to do the rest.

By continuing to fine tune more variations of antibodies for cancer prevention, medicine as we know it today could be changed for the better in years to come.

Medicine has come a long way in the last fifty years thanks to the help of scientists and research laboratories. Their combined efforts have aided individuals all over the world prevent and treat life-threatening forms of cancer.

Advancements in immunotherapy treatments that use antibodies for cancer prevention, combined with other cancer-deterring methods, are just a step on the threshold for greater triumphs to help everyone live long and healthy lives.

Visit Mike Selvon cancer prevention portal at http://cancerprevention.trustprofitableniche.com for more information on antibodies for cancer prevention, and leave a comment at our blog at http://www.mynicheportal.com/health-beauty/. Don’t forget to claim your FREE gift.

March 5, 2008 | Filed Under Cancer | Leave a Comment

A Quick Guide To Prostate Cancer And What To Look For

Many men, especially those later in life have made the decision with their doctors to simply watch and wait. The male hormone testosterone contributes to the growth of cancer. The prostate is a small, walnut-sized structure that makes up part of a man’s reproductive system; it wraps around the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body - because of this can cause various urinary problems.

About one man in six will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime, but only one man in 34 will die of the disease. About 80 percent of men who reach the age of 80 have prostate cancer. The most common cancer in American men, excluding skin cancer, is prostate cancer.

Weak or interrupted flow of urine and painful or burning urination can be symptoms to watch out for. If cancer is caught at its earliest stages, most men will not experience any symptoms. Blood in the urine or semen and frequent pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, or upper thighs can be symptoms of cancer.

Most prostate cancer symptoms, although associated with prostate cancer, are more likely to be connected to non-cancerous conditions. One prostate cancer symptom is difficulty starting urination or holding back urine. One of the most common symptoms is the inability to urinate, get checked right away.

A chest x-ray may be done to see if there’s a spread of cancer. A prostate gland biopsy usually confirms the diagnosis. Another test usually used when prostate cancer symptoms are present is a digital rectal exam (DRE) performed by the doctor, proctologist or oncologist.

A number of tests may be done to confirm a diagnosis of prostate cancer. A urinalysis may indicate if there is blood in the urine, which may or may not be related. Your doctor may use either one or two of the most common tests for prostate cancer detection.

Whether radiation is as good as removing the prostate gland is debatable and the decision about which to choose, if any, can be difficult. Prostate cancer that has spread (metastasized) may be treated conventionally with drugs to reduce testosterone levels, surgery to remove the testes, chemotherapy or nothing at all. Some drugs with numerous side effects are being used to treat advanced prostate cancer, blocking the production of testosterone, called chemical castration; it has the same result as surgical removal of the testes.

In patients whose health makes the risk of surgery unacceptably high, radiation therapy is often the chosen conventional alternative. Surgery, radiation, hormonal therapy and chemotherapy all have significant side effects; know fully what they are before you proceed. OHSU is beginning a study of acupuncture as a treatment for hot flashes for men with prostate cancer or prostate cancer survivors.

Impotence is a potential complication after a prostatectomy or after radiation therapy. Recent improvements in surgical procedures have made complications occur less often. Surgery, radiation therapy, and hormonal therapy can interfere with libido on a temporary or permanent basis.

Radiation therapy is used primarily to treat prostate cancers classified as stages A, B, or C. Since prostate tumors require testosterone to grow, reducing the testosterone level is used to prevent further growth and spread of the cancer. Besides hormonal drugs, hormone manipulation may also be done by surgically removing the testes.

The first step in managing your prostate health is to change your diet; I think all experts would agree on this. If possible eliminate all hormone-containing foods like meat and dairy from your diet. Make highly nutritious raw applesauce using a food processor and put in 3-4 cored pesticide-free apples, with the skin on, and mix for a minute; so much better for you than canned highly processed applesauce and add 1/4 tsp. cinnamon or two tablespoons of freshly ground flaxseed for another boost.

Consider taking cod liver oil or fish oil supplements every day. With natural treatments there will be fewer, if any, side effects or adverse reactions. Drink freshly made carrot juice every day that you make in a juicer or juice extractor.

Use flaxseed oil or walnut oil in your daily dark green salad. Make smoothies with fruit only, using a base of two bananas, adding a cup of frozen or fresh blueberries and mango chunks or substitute any other fruit and add an energy boost of two tablespoons of coconut oil; add one or two leaves of kale for another highly nutritional boost. Many men have lowered their PSA levels by eating a diet of living foods.

Because prostate cancer is a slow-growing disease, many men with this disease will die from other causes before they die from prostate cancer. Consider sites, such as this one, just a starting point where you can begin to learn more about prostate cancer. If you do choose invasive conventional treatment, you can always change your diet and do non-invasive natural treatments too.

March 5, 2008 | Filed Under Cancer | Leave a Comment

Young Women Are Learning To Fight Back: What You Can Do To Reduce Your Breast Cancer Risk

The American Cancer Society predicts 34,170 new cancer cases in Texas this year. Of those, 2, 480 are expected to be breast in third place, following lung (9,920 cases expected), and colon/rectum (3,220). Nationally, 26% of new cancer diagnoses 178,480 will be breast, accounting for one-third of all cancers in women. Warnings about environmental toxins, the dangers of inadequate diet and nutrition, and risk factors associated with family history abound. Combined with dismal statistics on the declining number of those able to afford individual health insurance 25.1% in Texas are uninsured it can all seem more than a little overwhelming.

The lifetime risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer is approximately one in eight, or 13.2%. Risk substantially increases with age, genetic tendencies, family history, personal medical history, and obesity. A woman in her thirties has only a 1 in 229 (0.4%) chance of being diagnosed, while a woman in her sixties has a 1 in 26 chance (3.8%). Survival rates for cancer increase with proper screening, early detection, and quality treatment (which, in turn, increases with health insurance coverage). These low percentages overall seem unconcerning, very low, in fact, but when we stop to consider what this means in actual numbers, or the fact we probably know someone affected by the disease, it hits closer to home.

Susan G. Komen for the Cure, along with the American Cancer Society and other non-profit groups, are helping women in Texas and across the country take control of their health by reducing risk factors. Women of all ages are fighting back with knowledge, support groups, and a push for healthier lifestyles. One can substantially reduce risk by becoming aware of, and adjusting for, personal vulnerabilities to the disease and establishing healthy habits. The younger the better, and young women are becoming more and more aware.

Many still believe that what puts a woman primarily at risk is genetic tendency (i.e., family history), but this simply isn’t true. Only 5-10% of cases are linked with the BRCA genes, and only 30% of women with breast cancer have a family history of it. While certain uncontrollable factors significantly contribute to its incidence including family history, early onset of menarche (having the first period before 12), late onset of menopause, the first full-term pregnancy after 30, hormone use, and being over 5′3″ a woman can reduce her risk, family history or not, by following a healthy lifestyle and making certain key medical decisions.

Obesity and physical activity are among those controllable risks. Weight gain of more than 20-30 pounds after 18 is of particular note. An obese woman has a higher risk of getting breast cancer, as do physically inactive women. The belief is that higher fat content produces more estrogen in the body, which, in turn, increases risk.

In 2005, Texas reported 27% of its residents as obese, above the national average of 24.4%. Recent studies of children in Dallas, Houston, and other cities across the state indicate troublingly high percentages of obesity in those under 18, as well. A child with unhealthy lifestyle habits has a higher chance of retaining those unhealthy habits as an adult, which, in turn, puts that adult at higher risk for certain cancers and chronic conditions. Establishing regular exercise and smart diet choices as early as possible in young women not only reduces the risk of breast cancer, but also improves overall well-being. A consistent physical regimen, producing an elevated heart rate for thirty or more minutes, several times a week, will decrease chances of not only breast cancer, but also many other diseases.

Estrogen exposure is another reason behind the slight increase of breast cancer in women taking (and shortly after taking) the birth control pill, as well as the risk associated with women participating in HRT (hormone replacement therapy), particularly after menopause. While short-term use of these hormones has been associated with reduced danger, anyone considering these treatments would be wise to weigh all the pros and cons before beginning.

Alcohol consumption increases cancer risk. Even a few drinks a week could affect one’s chances, but, in general, physicians say not to worry too much about enjoying a glass of wine or the occasional beer. Data suggests that the biggest concern over alcohol is its overuse; alcohol affects the way the liver processes estrogen.

Larger breasts, as well as asymmetrical breasts, may work against a woman, and choosing not to nurse may also increase the chances of getting breast cancer. Why nursing can dramatically influence risk reducing it by as much as 50%, but studies have shown that women who breastfeed several children, for extended periods, gain the greatest benefits.

Overall, it can be a little frightening. Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, and, with so many women being diagnosed with breast cancer alone every year, it’s hard not to become overwhelmed. But we’re fighting back, and young women are becoming more aware every day of what they can do to reduce their chances. Exercise, reduce stress, don’t drink too much alcohol, nurse if possible, and, for goodness sake’s, monitor yourself. If you’re without individual health insurance and find it difficult to go for annual exams (which should include a breast exam), do everything you can to get it. In the end, it’s up to you to take control and to fight back.

How you treat your body when you’re young will certainly affect your health as you age, and eventually your wallet.

Pat Carpenter writes for Precedent Insurance Company. Precedent puts a new spin on health insurance. Learn more at http://www.precedent.com

March 5, 2008 | Filed Under Cancer | Leave a Comment

Cancer Protection is About Making Smart Decisions

People taking action towards cancer protection by changing their diets and going to the doctor regularly have resulted in the latest statistics released by the American Cancer Society in January 2007 reporting that cancer deaths have gone down in the United States. Medical technology also offers state-of-the-art testing and screenings for various cancers, allowing patients to detect tumors in their earliest stages.

There are several ways you can protect yourself from cancer. One way is to maintain a healthy diet. Diets including plenty of fruits and vegetables allow a person to receive the necessary vitamins linked with cancer protection. It is also important to include healthy fats found in olive, canola and sunflower oils.

These are high in Omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to keep the heart healthy and prevent other deadly diseases. Limiting your intake of red meats is very important when it comes to a healthy diet. Instead, you should focus on including more lean proteins, such as chicken and fish.

Other ways to improve your diet are to eat hearty whole grains found in certain breads, pastas and rice dishes. Make sure to always avoid fried foods that are high in trans-fats.

Aside from a healthy diet, you can practice cancer prevention by taking certain supplements and vitamins. Vitamin E, selenium and lycopene have been connected with lowering a man’s risk of developing prostate cancer.

Fish oils have also been linked with preventing cancer of the prostate. There has even been research suggesting calcium supplements could help a person prevent colorectal cancer.

Going to the doctor is important even if you are trying to lower your risk of cancer. Doctors can perform certain screenings to help protect you from a life-threatening disease. Women are recommended to start having yearly mammograms sometime after age forty.

Younger women should have regular clinical breast exams performed by a physician or do breast exams at home to watch for abnormalities. Men and women should have a colonoscopy, beginning in their fifties, every ten years to watch for colorectal cancers. Men can protect themselves from prostate cancer by using certain chemoprevention drugs.

These are man-made drugs or vitamins used specifically to suppress or prevent cancer. PSA tests or digital rectal exams are other methods available to men who are at high risk for prostate cancer. Discuss all the treatments and screenings available with your doctor to determine what you should do based on your personal and family medical history.

Lifestyle is a major factor in your efforts at cancer protection. Smoking has been linked with several cancers, such as lung, prostate, bladder and breast cancer. It is imperative for smokers to quit this unhealthy habit because it will greatly reduce their risks of developing cancer.

Doctors recommend women watch their alcohol consumption as part of breast and cervical cancer control. Other ways to improve your lifestyle is to work plenty of physical activity into your daily schedule. Whether you join a gym, buy a treadmill or play outside with your children, exercising is an important factor in cancer protection.

Cancer protection could mean small changes or complete overhauls to daily routines, depending on your current lifestyle. Lowering your risk of cancer may include joining a gym or buying vitamins and dietary supplements.

It could mean you have to quit smoking or using other tobacco products. Whatever change you make to your current situation will put you closer to living a healthy and cancer-free life.

Visit Mike Selvon cancer prevention portal at http://cancerprevention.trustprofitableniche.com for more information on cancer protection, and leave a comment at our blog at http://www.mynicheportal.com/health-beauty/. Don’t forget to claim your FREE gift.

March 5, 2008 | Filed Under Cancer | Leave a Comment

Helpful Guide To Prostate Cancer Treatments

The prostate gland is located directly beneath the bladder and in front of the rectum. Like other cancers, the cause of prostate cancer is not known; it appears to be more common in African American men and men with a family history of the disease. At an advanced age, the risks of surgery for prostate cancer or other more radical treatments may actually be worse than the disease.

The main job of the prostate gland is to make seminal fluid, the milky substance that transports sperm. Prostate cancer is normally a slow growth cancer that can take years before it becomes deadly. About 80 percent of men who reach the age of 80 have prostate cancer.

Weak or interrupted flow of urine and painful or burning urination can be symptoms to watch out for. Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease are bone pain or tenderness, and abdominal pain. Because prostate cancer symptoms can mimic other diseases or disorders, men who experience any of these symptoms should undergo a thorough work-up to determine the underlying cause of the symptoms.

The need to urinate frequently, especially at night is another symptom. Blood in the urine or semen and frequent pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, or upper thighs can be symptoms of cancer. Other symptoms might include unintentional weight loss and lethargy.

A PSA test with a high level can also be from a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. A bone scan can indicate whether the cancer has spread or not. CT scans may be done to see if the cancer has metastasized (spread).

When a digital rectal exam is performed it often reveals an enlarged prostate with a hard, irregular surface. A prostate gland biopsy usually confirms the diagnosis. Another test usually used when prostate cancer symptoms are present is a digital rectal exam (DRE) performed by the doctor, proctologist or oncologist.

Some drugs with numerous side effects are being used to treat advanced prostate cancer, blocking the production of testosterone, called chemical castration; it has the same result as surgical removal of the testes. Thoroughly discuss all your treatment options and concerns with your doctor and other health professionals; it never hurts to get a second or even third opinion or more if necessary - don’t be afraid to ask. Be aware that some men chose natural treatment options and forgo any surgery, radiation or chemotherapy.

Side effects of chemotherapy drugs depend on which ones you’re taking and how often and how long they’re taken. The approaches to treatment include: just ever watchful waiting to see whether the cancer is growing slowly and not causing any symptoms. Medicines can be used to adjust the levels of testosterone; called hormonal manipulation.

Chemotherapy medications are often used to treat prostate cancers that are resistant to hormonal treatments. Surgery, radiation therapy, and hormonal therapy can interfere with libido on a temporary or permanent basis. Surgery is usually only recommended after thorough evaluation and discussion of all available treatment options.

In the early stages, surgery and radiation may be used to remove or attempt to kill the cancer cells or shrink the tumor. Medications can have many side effects, including hot flashes and loss of sexual desire. Besides hormonal drugs, hormone manipulation may also be done by surgically removing the testes.

Studies done on antioxidant vitamins question their value when not contained in food; it’s clearly better to consume these antioxidants in living foods because they may also need to work with other nutrients present in the foods to work properly. A good dietary, natural treatment approach is to avoid all acidic inflammatory foods; those are foods that aren’t alive. Use flaxseed oil or walnut oil in your daily dark green salad.

The first step in managing your prostate health is to change your diet; I think all experts would agree on this. Buy lacinato kale and juice it in your juicer with sweet carrots. For natural treatment for the prostate make an appointment with a naturopathic doctor, called a naturopath; ask around for referrals.

Making a ginger tea, by adding a thin slice or two of fresh gingerroot to hot water, is helpful to many people I know. Drink freshly made carrot juice every day that you make in a juicer or juice extractor. Put two tablespoons of unbleached, unrefined and undeodorized coconut oil in your smoothies; coconut oil is plant-based, not animal-based and is actually good for us.

If you’ve already been diagnosed with prostate cancer, pick the option that’s best suited to you and your continuing good health. The outcome of prostate cancer varies greatly; mostly because the disease is found in older men who may have a variety of other complicating diseases or conditions, such as cardiac or respiratory disease, or disabilities that immobilize or greatly decrease their activities. Just about all men with prostate cancer survive at least five years after their diagnosis, 93% survive at least 10 years, and 67% survive more than 15 years.

March 5, 2008 | Filed Under Cancer | Leave a Comment

Cancer Information: Preparing for the Worst

According to the 2007 report of the World Health Organization, the next thirty years will witness a significant global rise, in the number of deaths due to non-communicable diseases, especially cancer. This prediction is mainly due to the ageing of the population of the world.

However, even without that bit of news, we are aware of cancer being a major killer. But we do know that a cancer, when detected in its earliest stages, is generally curable. Hence, it is advisable to make sure that we are privy to various kinds of cancer information.

To begin with, it helps if you know about the different common types of cancer. Among the most common are bladder cancer, breast cancer, colon cancer, skin cancer, and prostate cancer.

Leukemia is another common type, where the cancer forms in the tissues where blood is formed, such as in the bone marrow. This then leads to the production of a large number of blood cells, and these large numbers of blood cells then enter the blood stream.

If you have a suspicious looking mole, you really should have it checked, as you do not want to risk it’s being cancerous. It may be nothing, but you really should not sit on it worrying that it might be melanoma. The word “melanoma” comes from “melanocytes”. Melanocytes are the cells in which melanin pigment is formed. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that begins in these cells.

NHL (Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma) is yet another common form of cancer. This refers to a the growth of a large group of cancers that affect the immunity system. The symptoms of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma are those of fever and weight loss, a sure sign that the immunity system has been affected. This is a cancer that can affect any age group, and its treatment is completely dependent on the stage of detection of the cancer.

Of course, these are only a few of the many kinds of cancers that afflict people all over the world. There are cancers that can be easily treated, and those that cannot. On the Internet, there are various sites that are devoted to providing cancer information. So you have the official sites, websites created by cancer specialists, and sites created and maintained by people who have either battled cancer or know people who have.

So, at least if you are looking for basic information, there are a large number of authoritative websites that provide cancer information. Prepare yourself with all the cancer information that you can, so that you will be better placed to deal with the countless problems that a cancer brings in its wake.

The author Ajeet Khurana recommends Cancer Information at http://www.cancer-info-resource.com Vitamins at http://www.oohoi.com/healthy_living/vitamin-info/vitamins.htm and Potassium Vitamins at http://www.oohoi.com/healthy_living/vitamin-info/potassium-vitamins.htm

March 5, 2008 | Filed Under Cancer | Leave a Comment

From A Nurse - Prostate Cancer Symptoms Treatments And Diet

Detected in its early stages, prostate cancer can be effectively treated and cured. Like other cancers, the cause of prostate cancer is not known; it appears to be more common in African American men and men with a family history of the disease. Prostate cancer is normally a slow growth cancer that can take years before it becomes deadly.

Weak or interrupted flow of urine and painful or burning urination can be symptoms to watch out for. Because prostate cancer symptoms can mimic other diseases or disorders, men who experience any of these symptoms should undergo a thorough work-up to determine the underlying cause of the symptoms. If you have one or more prostate cancer symptoms, you should see a qualified doctor as soon as possible.

There are a few symptoms to be aware of. Some men will experience symptoms that might indicate the presence of prostate cancer. The need to urinate frequently, especially at night is another symptom.

The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test measures the PSA enzyme in your blood for abnormalities. Your doctor may use either one or two of the most common tests for prostate cancer detection. Keep in mind that experts report that PSA tests are not reliable and they are looking for better ways to diagnose prostate cancer.

A prostate gland biopsy usually confirms the diagnosis. What is called a free PSA may help tell the difference between BPH (benign prostatic hypertrophy), an enlargement of the prostate gland, and prostate cancer. A number of tests may be done to confirm a diagnosis of prostate cancer.

Besides hormonal drugs, hormone manipulation may also be done by surgically removing the testes. Medications can have many side effects, including hot flashes and loss of sexual desire. Chemotherapy medications are often used to treat prostate cancers that are resistant to hormonal treatments.

Since prostate tumors require testosterone to grow, reducing the testosterone level is used to prevent further growth and spread of the cancer. Surgery, radiation, hormonal therapy and chemotherapy all have significant side effects; know fully what they are before you proceed. Treatment options can vary based on the stage of the tumor.

Surgery, radiation therapy, and hormonal therapy can interfere with libido on a temporary or permanent basis. Hormone manipulation is mainly used as a treatment to relieve symptoms in men whose cancer has metastasized (spread). The approaches to treatment include: just ever watchful waiting to see whether the cancer is growing slowly and not causing any symptoms.

Whether radiation is as good as removing the prostate gland is debatable and the decision about which to choose, if any, can be difficult. Side effects of chemotherapy drugs depend on which ones you’re taking and how often and how long they’re taken. An oncologist, a cancer specialist, will usually recommend treating with a single drug or a combination of drugs.

Buy lacinato kale and juice it in your juicer with sweet carrots. Eat foods that contain the essential fatty acids. Some foods and beverages to avoid that are inflammatory are: caffeine, salt, sugar, meat, dairy products, additives, soft drinks, white flour, white rice, alcoholic beverages, fast food, processed vegetable oils, and refined, packaged and processed food.

Make highly nutritious raw applesauce using a food processor and put in 3-4 cored pesticide-free apples, with the skin on, and mix for a minute; so much better for you than canned highly processed applesauce and add 1/4 tsp. cinnamon or two tablespoons of freshly ground flaxseed for another boost. Drink plenty of pure filtered water, a minimum of a quart a day. Studies done on antioxidant vitamins question their value when not contained in food; it’s clearly better to consume these antioxidants in living foods because they may also need to work with other nutrients present in the foods to work properly.

For snacks, choose raw nuts without salt instead of lifeless roasted nuts. A good dietary, natural treatment approach is to avoid all acidic inflammatory foods; those are foods that aren’t alive. With natural treatments there will be fewer, if any, side effects or adverse reactions.

Just about all men with prostate cancer survive at least five years after their diagnosis, 93% survive at least 10 years, and 67% survive more than 15 years. Because prostate cancer is a slow-growing disease, many men with this disease will die from other causes before they die from prostate cancer. If you’ve already been diagnosed with prostate cancer, pick the option that’s best suited to you and your continuing good health.

March 5, 2008 | Filed Under Cancer | Leave a Comment

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