Orchietomy is a radical prostate cancer treatment in which the testicles are completely removed. This is done because most cases of prostate cancer
develop and progress because of the presence of male sex hormones, or more specifically testosterone and this hormone is produced by the testes.
This type of prostate cancer treatment is a form of hormone therapy which works by manipulating the hormone levels in the body so that the
cancerous cells stop growing and dividing. While this therapy is known to have a positive effect on the cancer you must realise that the operation is
non-reversible and the chances of your sex life being affected are virtually 100%. Men who have undergone this form of prostate cancer treatment
often report that their libido decreases and so does their desire to have sex. Unfortunately even when they do have the desire for sexual intercourse
they may find themselves to be impotent and this can lead to psychological problems in the long term. These side affects of orchietomy are very
common and you should take them in to account and discuss them with your partner before you decide to undergo this form of prostate cancer
treatment. Other side effects of this radical prostate cancer treatment are associated with the unbalancing of the male and female hormone levels
within the body. By removing the testicles the concentration of testosterone in your body will be reduced by around 90% however the concentration of
oestrogen, the female hormone will remain the same. This means that on occasion breast tenderness, growth of the breast tissue and osteoporosis
can develop. Other side effects include anaemia, weight gain, and depression and fatigue however your oncologist will be able to explain each of the
side effects in much more detail. Before deciding for or against this form of prostate cancer treatment you need to decide what exactly you want to
get out of the treatment. If you want to eliminate the cancer from your body then an orchietomy is a possibility however there are other ways to remove
the cancer totally and these alternative treatments have fewer and less severe side effects. If however you are 60+ and do not want to have surgery
then this procedure is not for you and radiation therapy can be used to simply control the growth of the cancer. Similarly if you are still relatively young
and do not want to be plagued with impotence and lack of sex drive then, again, an orchietomy is probably not the prostate cancer treatment for you.
Because impotence is a major side effect of this radical prostate cancer treatment you should think long and hard before agreeing to anything. Talk to
your partner and your oncologist and look into the alternative forms of treatment. There may be a better one for you that only has temporary side
effects so that after a few weeks or months you can once again enjoy a full sex life.
Cancer in Females
Cancer of breast tissue is breast cancer. It is a highly common and fatal cancer in females. Breast cancer can affect males too, as their un grown
breast is composed of identical tissues as females. The incidence is less than one percent. History of breast cancer can be traced back to 1600 B.C.
it is considered as one of the oldest known tumors. In Papyrus writing tumors or ulcers of the breast and its cure were mentioned. For very long time
there was no cure for the condition. Then in 1749-1806 the Scottish surgeon Benjamin Bell and the French surgeon Jean Louis Petit were the first one
to remove the affected breast tissue, and underlying chest muscle. The first work on the cause of breast cancer was done by Janet Lane-Claypon.
The major cause was attributed to damaged or mutated DNA. The reason stated for the same may be due to exposure to ionizing radiation, exposure
to estrogens and repaired BRCA1, BRCA2 and p53 genes. Though these causes are stated for the onset of cancer but the underlying factor is not yet
proved. Other causes which are responsible for breast cancer are: Aging - Due to aging the cell no longer are healthier and some un grown calls can
develop in to tumors. Previous history of breast cancer- Previous occurrence increases the risk of developing breast cancer again. Family history of
breast cancer- patients sister, mother, close female relative had diagnosed for breast cancer. When their female relative developed their first cancer
before the age of 50. Late menopause, Early menarchy, Women with dense breast tissue due to dense breast tissues, the fat ratio decreases. This
results in more breast cells and the connective tissues. So they have high chances of developing breast cancer. Alcohol and smoking, Gaining too
much weight after menopause. What ever may be the case if you had developed breast cancer or have a high risk for developing breast cancer, first
thing is do not panic! Things will come to your control when you have the confidence in you. Each woman has the capacity to deal with it differently.
There are many tests like An annual clinical breast examination, Monthly breast examination, Annual mammogram, to detect the condition in each and
every woman. Science and technology has improved so much that treatment for all problems pop up every minute. But always remember there is life
after its diagnosis. We hold lot of hope than ever in the age we live in.
breast is composed of identical tissues as females. The incidence is less than one percent. History of breast cancer can be traced back to 1600 B.C.
it is considered as one of the oldest known tumors. In Papyrus writing tumors or ulcers of the breast and its cure were mentioned. For very long time
there was no cure for the condition. Then in 1749-1806 the Scottish surgeon Benjamin Bell and the French surgeon Jean Louis Petit were the first one
to remove the affected breast tissue, and underlying chest muscle. The first work on the cause of breast cancer was done by Janet Lane-Claypon.
The major cause was attributed to damaged or mutated DNA. The reason stated for the same may be due to exposure to ionizing radiation, exposure
to estrogens and repaired BRCA1, BRCA2 and p53 genes. Though these causes are stated for the onset of cancer but the underlying factor is not yet
proved. Other causes which are responsible for breast cancer are: Aging - Due to aging the cell no longer are healthier and some un grown calls can
develop in to tumors. Previous history of breast cancer- Previous occurrence increases the risk of developing breast cancer again. Family history of
breast cancer- patients sister, mother, close female relative had diagnosed for breast cancer. When their female relative developed their first cancer
before the age of 50. Late menopause, Early menarchy, Women with dense breast tissue due to dense breast tissues, the fat ratio decreases. This
results in more breast cells and the connective tissues. So they have high chances of developing breast cancer. Alcohol and smoking, Gaining too
much weight after menopause. What ever may be the case if you had developed breast cancer or have a high risk for developing breast cancer, first
thing is do not panic! Things will come to your control when you have the confidence in you. Each woman has the capacity to deal with it differently.
There are many tests like An annual clinical breast examination, Monthly breast examination, Annual mammogram, to detect the condition in each and
every woman. Science and technology has improved so much that treatment for all problems pop up every minute. But always remember there is life
after its diagnosis. We hold lot of hope than ever in the age we live in.
Do You Know What Your Risks Are of Developing Breast Cancer?
Many women all over the world fear breast cancer. It is a killer! It is one of the leading causes of death for women and even men are not immune.
Not that long ago a diagnosis of breast cancer would have been like receiving a death sentence! That's because it was often fatal. However, things
are different today because of the amazing advances in medical science in the area of breast cancer research. For example, a lot more treatments
are available to you today than were available 20 years ago. And many women are survivors of this dreaded disease. Do you know your personal risk
factor for developing breast cancer? It's obvious that just because you're a woman you are more at risk than a man would be. As you age, your risks
increase. But you can't really change that. Your genetic makeup is another risk factor. If breast cancer claimed your mother, that increases your risks
as well. If you had another close family member who developed breast cancer that also increases your risk of developing it yourself. The age that you
had your first menstrual period also affects your risk factor. If you started menstruating before the age of 12, your risk increases. If you passed
through menopause after the age of 50, that also increases your risk. There is a test available now that you can take to see if you carry a mutated
gene related to breast cancer. If you have menopausal symptoms and you are taking estrogen with progesterone, that will increase your risk of
developing breast cancer by a small percent. Taking birth control pills is another factor in slightly increasing your risk of having this disease. Your
risks will increase if you drink alcoholic beverages and smoke. Obesity may lead to breast cancer as well. You will increase your risks if you seldom
exercise. Those who have never breast fed their babies have an increased risk too. Surprisingly, even men can suffer from breast cancer. And no
one really knows who will be its next victim. As you have seen in this article, there are some risks that you have control over, while there are other
risks over which you have no control. Here are some risks that you can control. Choose healthy habits like regular exercise and watching your
weight. Avoid alcoholic beverages as much as possible and don't smoke. If your genetic background is a risk factor for you, be sure to have regular
mammograms and breast examinations by your doctor. You ought to examine your own breasts every month too. Now that you know a little more
about what your own personal risk factors for breast cancer are, you can choose healthy habits to protect yourself. And don't forget to schedule
regular examinations by your doctor and examine your breasts yourself once a month. Be sure to include a yearly mammogram for your protection
from breast cancer.
Not that long ago a diagnosis of breast cancer would have been like receiving a death sentence! That's because it was often fatal. However, things
are different today because of the amazing advances in medical science in the area of breast cancer research. For example, a lot more treatments
are available to you today than were available 20 years ago. And many women are survivors of this dreaded disease. Do you know your personal risk
factor for developing breast cancer? It's obvious that just because you're a woman you are more at risk than a man would be. As you age, your risks
increase. But you can't really change that. Your genetic makeup is another risk factor. If breast cancer claimed your mother, that increases your risks
as well. If you had another close family member who developed breast cancer that also increases your risk of developing it yourself. The age that you
had your first menstrual period also affects your risk factor. If you started menstruating before the age of 12, your risk increases. If you passed
through menopause after the age of 50, that also increases your risk. There is a test available now that you can take to see if you carry a mutated
gene related to breast cancer. If you have menopausal symptoms and you are taking estrogen with progesterone, that will increase your risk of
developing breast cancer by a small percent. Taking birth control pills is another factor in slightly increasing your risk of having this disease. Your
risks will increase if you drink alcoholic beverages and smoke. Obesity may lead to breast cancer as well. You will increase your risks if you seldom
exercise. Those who have never breast fed their babies have an increased risk too. Surprisingly, even men can suffer from breast cancer. And no
one really knows who will be its next victim. As you have seen in this article, there are some risks that you have control over, while there are other
risks over which you have no control. Here are some risks that you can control. Choose healthy habits like regular exercise and watching your
weight. Avoid alcoholic beverages as much as possible and don't smoke. If your genetic background is a risk factor for you, be sure to have regular
mammograms and breast examinations by your doctor. You ought to examine your own breasts every month too. Now that you know a little more
about what your own personal risk factors for breast cancer are, you can choose healthy habits to protect yourself. And don't forget to schedule
regular examinations by your doctor and examine your breasts yourself once a month. Be sure to include a yearly mammogram for your protection
from breast cancer.
Want A Good Reason To Quit Smoking, How About Lung Cancer?
The lungs are organs found in the chest cavity. When air enters through our nose or mouth, it passes on
through the trachea, then into the bronchi and
into the lungs. The lungs provide the oxygen that the blood carries to the rest of the body. It is very
important to take care of our lungs so our body has
the oxygen it needs to function properly. Lung cancer is occurs when the cells inside the lungs
malfunction due to certain factors. According to
statistics, smoking causes 87% of all lung cancer. This disease is one of the major causes of death in
America. There are more cases of lung cancer
than all the other types of cancer put together. The more you smoke, the more you are prone to lung
cancer. The disease can be prevented if the
person quits smoking before it is too late. It can also easily go undetected until it is in the advanced
stages. What are the common indications that
you have lung cancer? First, coughing caused by the irritation of the lining of the lungs and blocked
air passages, chest pain, pneumonia, bronchitis,
weight loss and loss of appetite and fatigue are the symptoms of this deadly disease. If the malady gets
worse, it can also cause headaches and pain
in the bones. Smokers are not the only ones prone to lung cancer. The passive smokers, the People who
inhale smoke from other people's
cigarettes, are also prone to contracting it, even if then don't smoke themselves. Particles coming from
asbestos and other industrial carcinogens are
also causes of cancer. But there are more people who acquire it through smoking than for any other
reason. There are two types of cancers. The first
is the small cell cancer. The small cell cancer is the type of cancer that spreads easily during the
first stage of the disease. It is treated by
chemotherapy with uneven results. The non-small cell cancer is the most common. Almost 75% of the cases
of lung cancer fall in this category. It is
divided into four types, squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, large cell carcinoma and
bronchoaveolar carcinoma. This can de treated with
surgery, followed by chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. It is hard to quit smoking, especially if
you are a chain smoker. Knowing the harmful
effects of smoking to the body is necessary to help you to decide to quit smoking. If you don't want to
get lung cancer in the future, then you better quit
smoking now.
through the trachea, then into the bronchi and
into the lungs. The lungs provide the oxygen that the blood carries to the rest of the body. It is very
important to take care of our lungs so our body has
the oxygen it needs to function properly. Lung cancer is occurs when the cells inside the lungs
malfunction due to certain factors. According to
statistics, smoking causes 87% of all lung cancer. This disease is one of the major causes of death in
America. There are more cases of lung cancer
than all the other types of cancer put together. The more you smoke, the more you are prone to lung
cancer. The disease can be prevented if the
person quits smoking before it is too late. It can also easily go undetected until it is in the advanced
stages. What are the common indications that
you have lung cancer? First, coughing caused by the irritation of the lining of the lungs and blocked
air passages, chest pain, pneumonia, bronchitis,
weight loss and loss of appetite and fatigue are the symptoms of this deadly disease. If the malady gets
worse, it can also cause headaches and pain
in the bones. Smokers are not the only ones prone to lung cancer. The passive smokers, the People who
inhale smoke from other people's
cigarettes, are also prone to contracting it, even if then don't smoke themselves. Particles coming from
asbestos and other industrial carcinogens are
also causes of cancer. But there are more people who acquire it through smoking than for any other
reason. There are two types of cancers. The first
is the small cell cancer. The small cell cancer is the type of cancer that spreads easily during the
first stage of the disease. It is treated by
chemotherapy with uneven results. The non-small cell cancer is the most common. Almost 75% of the cases
of lung cancer fall in this category. It is
divided into four types, squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, large cell carcinoma and
bronchoaveolar carcinoma. This can de treated with
surgery, followed by chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. It is hard to quit smoking, especially if
you are a chain smoker. Knowing the harmful
effects of smoking to the body is necessary to help you to decide to quit smoking. If you don't want to
get lung cancer in the future, then you better quit
smoking now.
How Far Has Science Come in Understanding the Causes of Prostate Cancer?
The study of prostate cancer has come a long way since its identification in 1853. Information concerning diagnostic methods, treatment options and
even the pathophysiological characteristics of this condition has been provided in useful details by researchers, but the specific causes of prostate
cancer remain unknown up to this day. The causes of prostate cancer, or any other type of cancer for that matter, have remained a mystery to those
who are studying the disease. Despite being able to explain the process by which cancer of the prostate develops, the exact reasons behind the
condition's occurrence remain a challenge to cancer researchers. Cancer of the prostate is a condition that affects only men. The prostate gland,
which is part of the male reproductive system, helps make and store seminal fluid. It surrounds part of the urethra and is located under the urinary
bladder and in front of the rectum. Its position allows it to influence the processes of urination, ejaculation and defecation. Although the causes of
cancer of the prostate have yet to be fully understood, scientists were able to identify some of the factors associated with the risk of developing this
condition. A man's chances of developing prostate cancer are influenced by his age, genes, race, diet, lifestyle and the medications that he is taking.
Cancer of the prostate is quite uncommon in men aged below 45. However, the chances of developing prostate cancer increase as a man ages.
Based on statistics gathered on prostate cancer patients, 70 is the average age of diagnosis. Prostate cancer is a slow developing condition. Some
men who have it never even knew that they had the condition and they could die of other causes before their cancer manifests itself. But a man who
has a first degree relative, like a brother or a father, who has been diagnosed with this condition is believe to have a higher chance of developing
prostate cancer, particularly if the relative was diagnosed at an early age. Among the races, African Americans have been known to account for the
highest percentage of diagnosed cases of prostate cancer. Asians, on the other hand, recorded the least number of diagnosed cases. Researchers
speculate that this might be due to the difference between the diet and lifestyle of Western and Asian men. Westerners usually take in more red meat
while Asians are more likely to eat vegetables and fruits. Men who have higher levels of the short chain fatty acid linolenic acid have also been found
to have higher rates of cancer in the prostate. Other dietary factors that have been implicated in the development of prostate cancer include low intake
of elements such as vitamin E, lycopene, omega-3 fatty acids and selenium. In terms of genetics, no single gene has yet to be proven to be
responsible for the development of prostate cancer, although BRCA1 and BRCA2, both risk factors for ovarian cancer and breast cancer in women,
have been implicated. Although the causes of prostate cancer have not yet been fully identified, there is high hope that the exact process that
governs this disease will eventually be understood and prevention methods will be developed to lessen the number of men suffering from this
condition.
even the pathophysiological characteristics of this condition has been provided in useful details by researchers, but the specific causes of prostate
cancer remain unknown up to this day. The causes of prostate cancer, or any other type of cancer for that matter, have remained a mystery to those
who are studying the disease. Despite being able to explain the process by which cancer of the prostate develops, the exact reasons behind the
condition's occurrence remain a challenge to cancer researchers. Cancer of the prostate is a condition that affects only men. The prostate gland,
which is part of the male reproductive system, helps make and store seminal fluid. It surrounds part of the urethra and is located under the urinary
bladder and in front of the rectum. Its position allows it to influence the processes of urination, ejaculation and defecation. Although the causes of
cancer of the prostate have yet to be fully understood, scientists were able to identify some of the factors associated with the risk of developing this
condition. A man's chances of developing prostate cancer are influenced by his age, genes, race, diet, lifestyle and the medications that he is taking.
Cancer of the prostate is quite uncommon in men aged below 45. However, the chances of developing prostate cancer increase as a man ages.
Based on statistics gathered on prostate cancer patients, 70 is the average age of diagnosis. Prostate cancer is a slow developing condition. Some
men who have it never even knew that they had the condition and they could die of other causes before their cancer manifests itself. But a man who
has a first degree relative, like a brother or a father, who has been diagnosed with this condition is believe to have a higher chance of developing
prostate cancer, particularly if the relative was diagnosed at an early age. Among the races, African Americans have been known to account for the
highest percentage of diagnosed cases of prostate cancer. Asians, on the other hand, recorded the least number of diagnosed cases. Researchers
speculate that this might be due to the difference between the diet and lifestyle of Western and Asian men. Westerners usually take in more red meat
while Asians are more likely to eat vegetables and fruits. Men who have higher levels of the short chain fatty acid linolenic acid have also been found
to have higher rates of cancer in the prostate. Other dietary factors that have been implicated in the development of prostate cancer include low intake
of elements such as vitamin E, lycopene, omega-3 fatty acids and selenium. In terms of genetics, no single gene has yet to be proven to be
responsible for the development of prostate cancer, although BRCA1 and BRCA2, both risk factors for ovarian cancer and breast cancer in women,
have been implicated. Although the causes of prostate cancer have not yet been fully identified, there is high hope that the exact process that
governs this disease will eventually be understood and prevention methods will be developed to lessen the number of men suffering from this
condition.
The Truth About Breast Cancer
Breast cancer happens when cells in the breast or a tumor, grow out of control and damages nearby tissue. In women, the most common and fatal
type of cancer is breast cancer. Detection There are often no symptoms in the early stages. Women should be aware of the screening
recommendations and follow them. There are varieties of symptoms that may appear as the tumor grows such as - The breast changing in size or
shape - Breast skin becomes pitted or ridged - Thickening or lump in the underarm or breast - Discharge from nipple or the nipple turns inward - Skin
on the breast becomes red or scales If you have any of these symptoms, have yourself examined by a medical professional. This does not mean you
have cancer but you defiantly want to have this checked. Before the age of twenty, is very rare to get it and not often diagnosed in women less than
twenty-five years old. The chances of contacting climbs steadily after 25 and peaks around menopause age in women. It increases less after
menopause but as they age, the risk to older women gradually increases. Risk Factors Nobody really knows what causes this cancer. Some of the
elements that are thought to increase the risk are Gender There are more cases of women than men Weight Overweight women are at higher risk
Age From 25 to menopause, the chances increases. Children If a woman has not had a child, or had a child after 30 Family History Women that
have a family member that have or had it are at risk. Male Breast Cancer Yes, it really does happen. It is certainly not as common as in women but
approximately one to 1.5% happens to men. Older men most often diagnosed with it and are between sixty and seventy years old. If a man has had
previous exposure to radiation, such as for cancer treatment, their risk increases. Approximately 20% of men with a mother, sister or other close
female relatives with breast cancer are certainly at higher risk. Some of the symptoms in men includes swelling or a breast lump, retracted nipple or
discharge and scaling or redness of the breast skin or nipple. Statistics The statistics are frightening. Each and ever year, over 182,000 women and
16,000 men are diagnosed with breast cancer. Over 400 men and 43,300 women will die from this terrible disease. During their lifetime, one woman
out of eight has or will get breast cancer. Most people have family or friends that have or had breast cancer. Always give them your support and
encouragement.
type of cancer is breast cancer. Detection There are often no symptoms in the early stages. Women should be aware of the screening
recommendations and follow them. There are varieties of symptoms that may appear as the tumor grows such as - The breast changing in size or
shape - Breast skin becomes pitted or ridged - Thickening or lump in the underarm or breast - Discharge from nipple or the nipple turns inward - Skin
on the breast becomes red or scales If you have any of these symptoms, have yourself examined by a medical professional. This does not mean you
have cancer but you defiantly want to have this checked. Before the age of twenty, is very rare to get it and not often diagnosed in women less than
twenty-five years old. The chances of contacting climbs steadily after 25 and peaks around menopause age in women. It increases less after
menopause but as they age, the risk to older women gradually increases. Risk Factors Nobody really knows what causes this cancer. Some of the
elements that are thought to increase the risk are Gender There are more cases of women than men Weight Overweight women are at higher risk
Age From 25 to menopause, the chances increases. Children If a woman has not had a child, or had a child after 30 Family History Women that
have a family member that have or had it are at risk. Male Breast Cancer Yes, it really does happen. It is certainly not as common as in women but
approximately one to 1.5% happens to men. Older men most often diagnosed with it and are between sixty and seventy years old. If a man has had
previous exposure to radiation, such as for cancer treatment, their risk increases. Approximately 20% of men with a mother, sister or other close
female relatives with breast cancer are certainly at higher risk. Some of the symptoms in men includes swelling or a breast lump, retracted nipple or
discharge and scaling or redness of the breast skin or nipple. Statistics The statistics are frightening. Each and ever year, over 182,000 women and
16,000 men are diagnosed with breast cancer. Over 400 men and 43,300 women will die from this terrible disease. During their lifetime, one woman
out of eight has or will get breast cancer. Most people have family or friends that have or had breast cancer. Always give them your support and
encouragement.
Prostate Cancer Symptoms And Treatments
Prostate cancer is one of the most common type of cancer affecting 1 in every 6 males. In it's early stages, prostate cancer has few symptoms and
many of the symptoms associated with this disease are also symptoms found in other less serious illnesses. Prevalent symptoms of prostate problems
which may or may not signal cancer include: frequent urination, bloody urine, burning urination, lower back pain or pain in the pelvis or upper thighs,
blood in semen, pain during ejaculation, stopping and starting urination along with not being able to urinate. The treatment course for prostate cancer
differs depending on the location and size of the tumor as well as the patients health. In some cases, if the cancer is a slow growing one and you are
advanced in age, the treatment may simply be that of watchful waiting. If the cancer is not causing any symptoms, then your physician may opt to
simply keep and eye on it's growth. This will entail a PSA blood test every few months as well as biopsies every year to see if and how fast it is
growing. If it starts to grow faster, additional treatment may be recommended. Some treatments for prostate cancer include: A surgical procedure
called a radical prostatectomy may be done to remove the cancer provided it has not spread outside of the prostate. The whole gland and surrounding
tissue is removed in the hopes of removing all the cancer. Radiotherapy employs x-rays to treat cancer and is relatively pain free. During this course
of treatment, radiation is pointed towards your prostate in the hopes of shrinking or even eliminating the cancer. This technique can have adverse
effects such as impotance and diarrhea. Brachytherapy, is a method of radiotherapy on which something is implanted in the patient to treat the
cancer. This method of treatment involves less visits to the hospital as opposed to radiation therapy (which is typically done every day) although it
does require a little external radiotherapy also. Hormone therapy is used to lower the level of androgens which cause prostate cancer to grow. This
treatment is mostly used in men whose cancer has spread or returned after earlier treatments. While it will not cure the cancer, it can shrink it or slow
it's growth and may be used in conjunction with other treatments. Chemotherapy is typically not effective against prostate cancer although newer
drugs developed in recent years have shown the ability to relieve symptoms in men with advanced prostate cancer. Chemotherapy may be employed
if the cancer has spread outside the prostate in order to shrink the cancer or slow it's growth. While many prostate symptoms indicate a problem
other than cancer, it is vital that you see your doctor if you experience any of the symptoms listed above. Prompt treatment is your best chance for a
cure.
many of the symptoms associated with this disease are also symptoms found in other less serious illnesses. Prevalent symptoms of prostate problems
which may or may not signal cancer include: frequent urination, bloody urine, burning urination, lower back pain or pain in the pelvis or upper thighs,
blood in semen, pain during ejaculation, stopping and starting urination along with not being able to urinate. The treatment course for prostate cancer
differs depending on the location and size of the tumor as well as the patients health. In some cases, if the cancer is a slow growing one and you are
advanced in age, the treatment may simply be that of watchful waiting. If the cancer is not causing any symptoms, then your physician may opt to
simply keep and eye on it's growth. This will entail a PSA blood test every few months as well as biopsies every year to see if and how fast it is
growing. If it starts to grow faster, additional treatment may be recommended. Some treatments for prostate cancer include: A surgical procedure
called a radical prostatectomy may be done to remove the cancer provided it has not spread outside of the prostate. The whole gland and surrounding
tissue is removed in the hopes of removing all the cancer. Radiotherapy employs x-rays to treat cancer and is relatively pain free. During this course
of treatment, radiation is pointed towards your prostate in the hopes of shrinking or even eliminating the cancer. This technique can have adverse
effects such as impotance and diarrhea. Brachytherapy, is a method of radiotherapy on which something is implanted in the patient to treat the
cancer. This method of treatment involves less visits to the hospital as opposed to radiation therapy (which is typically done every day) although it
does require a little external radiotherapy also. Hormone therapy is used to lower the level of androgens which cause prostate cancer to grow. This
treatment is mostly used in men whose cancer has spread or returned after earlier treatments. While it will not cure the cancer, it can shrink it or slow
it's growth and may be used in conjunction with other treatments. Chemotherapy is typically not effective against prostate cancer although newer
drugs developed in recent years have shown the ability to relieve symptoms in men with advanced prostate cancer. Chemotherapy may be employed
if the cancer has spread outside the prostate in order to shrink the cancer or slow it's growth. While many prostate symptoms indicate a problem
other than cancer, it is vital that you see your doctor if you experience any of the symptoms listed above. Prompt treatment is your best chance for a
cure.
Breast Cancer Prevention
Breast cancer happens when cells in the breast begin to grow out of control and can then invade nearby tissues or spread throughout the body. Large
collections of this out of control tissue are called tumors. However, some tumors are not really cancer because they cannot spread or threaten
someone's life. These are called benign tumors. The tumors that can spread throughout the body or invade nearby tissues are considered cancer and
are called malignant tumors. Theoretically, any of the types of tissue in the breast can form a cancer, but usually it comes from either the ducts or the
glands. Because it may take months to years for a tumor to get large enough to feel in the breast, we screen for tumors with mammograms, which can
sometimes see disease before we can feel it. How can I prevent breast cancer? The most important risk factors for the development of breast cancer
cannot be controlled by the individual. There are some risk factors that are associated with an increased risk, but there is not a clear cause and effect
relationship. In no way can strong recommendations be made like the cause and effect relationship seen with tobacco and lung cancer. There are a
few risk factors that may be modified by a woman that potentially could influence the development of breast cancer. If possible, a woman should
avoid long-term hormone replacement therapy, have children before age 30, breastfeed, avoid weight gain through exercise and proper diet, and limit
alcohol consumption to 1 drink a day or less. For women already at a high risk, their risk of developing breast cancer can be reduced by about 50% by
taking a drug called Tamoxifen for five years. Tamoxifen has some common side effects (like hot flashes and vaginal discharge), which are not serious
and some uncommon side effects (like blood clots, pulmonary embolus, stroke, and uterine cancer) which are life threatening. Tamoxifen isn't widely
used for prevention, but may be useful in some cases. There are limited data suggesting that vitamin A may protect against breast cancer but further
research is needed before it can be recommended for prevention. Other things being investigated include phytoestrogens (naturally occurring
estrogens that are in high numbers in soy), vitamin E, vitamin C, and other drugs. Further testing of these substances is also needed before they can
be recommended for breast cancer prevention. Right now, the most important thing any woman can do to decrease her risk of dying from breast
cancer is to have regular mammogram screening, learn how to perform breast self exams, and have a regular physical examination by their physician.
For more information on breast cancer prevention.
collections of this out of control tissue are called tumors. However, some tumors are not really cancer because they cannot spread or threaten
someone's life. These are called benign tumors. The tumors that can spread throughout the body or invade nearby tissues are considered cancer and
are called malignant tumors. Theoretically, any of the types of tissue in the breast can form a cancer, but usually it comes from either the ducts or the
glands. Because it may take months to years for a tumor to get large enough to feel in the breast, we screen for tumors with mammograms, which can
sometimes see disease before we can feel it. How can I prevent breast cancer? The most important risk factors for the development of breast cancer
cannot be controlled by the individual. There are some risk factors that are associated with an increased risk, but there is not a clear cause and effect
relationship. In no way can strong recommendations be made like the cause and effect relationship seen with tobacco and lung cancer. There are a
few risk factors that may be modified by a woman that potentially could influence the development of breast cancer. If possible, a woman should
avoid long-term hormone replacement therapy, have children before age 30, breastfeed, avoid weight gain through exercise and proper diet, and limit
alcohol consumption to 1 drink a day or less. For women already at a high risk, their risk of developing breast cancer can be reduced by about 50% by
taking a drug called Tamoxifen for five years. Tamoxifen has some common side effects (like hot flashes and vaginal discharge), which are not serious
and some uncommon side effects (like blood clots, pulmonary embolus, stroke, and uterine cancer) which are life threatening. Tamoxifen isn't widely
used for prevention, but may be useful in some cases. There are limited data suggesting that vitamin A may protect against breast cancer but further
research is needed before it can be recommended for prevention. Other things being investigated include phytoestrogens (naturally occurring
estrogens that are in high numbers in soy), vitamin E, vitamin C, and other drugs. Further testing of these substances is also needed before they can
be recommended for breast cancer prevention. Right now, the most important thing any woman can do to decrease her risk of dying from breast
cancer is to have regular mammogram screening, learn how to perform breast self exams, and have a regular physical examination by their physician.
For more information on breast cancer prevention.
Genetic DNA Testing for Breast Cancer
Genetic test which is also known as DNA-based test is the most powerful technique used to test for breast cancer detection. It involves the direct
examination of DNA molecule itself. By using a molecular diagnostic test to assess whether a breast tumor will respond to chemotherapy, doctor's
need to more precisely identify which patients can be adequately treated with hormonal therapy alone and which patients will truly benefit if
chemotherapy is added to the treatment. With better individualized treatment, we can spare women the side effects of chemotherapy where it is
unnecessary. Breast cancer, like other cancers, develops when changes occur in genes in breast cells. In that sense, all breast cancer has a
genetic element. But, "genetic" does not mean inherited. Only an estimated 5% to 10% of breast cancer cases result from an inherited genetic
predisposition to the disease. In other words, more than 90% of all breast cancer cases result from factors that are not inherited and, in many cases,
are unknown. So far, researchers have found two genes linked with breast cancer-labeled BRCA1 and BRCA2-that everyone inherits in pairs: one
from our mother and one from our father. When they function normally, they are supposed to stop the growth of cancerous cells in the breast. When
both genes in a pair are damaged, they don't work properly and cancer may develop. People who inherit a damaged BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene from one
parent are at greater risk of developing breast cancer than people who inherit two normal genes. Studies can estimate risk among large numbers of
people who have an inherited mutation, but not the risk for an individual woman. Women with any BRCA mutation have about a 33% to 50% risk of
developing cancer by age 50, and a 56% to 87% risk by age 70. Most of the research focuses on women with a strong family history of breast or
ovarian cancer (several female relatives on one side who have breast and/or ovarian cancer before age 40, cancer in both breasts, and/or cases of
male breast cancer). By being able to identify these genes through particular markers associated with the gene, doctors will know which individuals
are more susceptible to cancer and therefore can follow the proper procedure. The earlier the doctor can diagnose the cancer, the more effective the
treatment will be. Scientists warn however that, although they have discovered one of the genes associated with breast cancer, there is still no cure
available. They have successfully identified the gene, but presently there is no way to "repair" the gene. The recent isolation of the gene BRCA-1 has
prompted investigators to identify other genes that may contribute to breast cancer, ovarian cancer and the breast-ovarian cancer syndrome.
examination of DNA molecule itself. By using a molecular diagnostic test to assess whether a breast tumor will respond to chemotherapy, doctor's
need to more precisely identify which patients can be adequately treated with hormonal therapy alone and which patients will truly benefit if
chemotherapy is added to the treatment. With better individualized treatment, we can spare women the side effects of chemotherapy where it is
unnecessary. Breast cancer, like other cancers, develops when changes occur in genes in breast cells. In that sense, all breast cancer has a
genetic element. But, "genetic" does not mean inherited. Only an estimated 5% to 10% of breast cancer cases result from an inherited genetic
predisposition to the disease. In other words, more than 90% of all breast cancer cases result from factors that are not inherited and, in many cases,
are unknown. So far, researchers have found two genes linked with breast cancer-labeled BRCA1 and BRCA2-that everyone inherits in pairs: one
from our mother and one from our father. When they function normally, they are supposed to stop the growth of cancerous cells in the breast. When
both genes in a pair are damaged, they don't work properly and cancer may develop. People who inherit a damaged BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene from one
parent are at greater risk of developing breast cancer than people who inherit two normal genes. Studies can estimate risk among large numbers of
people who have an inherited mutation, but not the risk for an individual woman. Women with any BRCA mutation have about a 33% to 50% risk of
developing cancer by age 50, and a 56% to 87% risk by age 70. Most of the research focuses on women with a strong family history of breast or
ovarian cancer (several female relatives on one side who have breast and/or ovarian cancer before age 40, cancer in both breasts, and/or cases of
male breast cancer). By being able to identify these genes through particular markers associated with the gene, doctors will know which individuals
are more susceptible to cancer and therefore can follow the proper procedure. The earlier the doctor can diagnose the cancer, the more effective the
treatment will be. Scientists warn however that, although they have discovered one of the genes associated with breast cancer, there is still no cure
available. They have successfully identified the gene, but presently there is no way to "repair" the gene. The recent isolation of the gene BRCA-1 has
prompted investigators to identify other genes that may contribute to breast cancer, ovarian cancer and the breast-ovarian cancer syndrome.