What Is Cancer

Cancer :

The body is made up of millions of units. These individual units called cells, have a finite lifetime which are created by cell division in the body. These units or cells grow and divide in a normal fashion. After completing their life-cycle, the cells die. During the childhood years of a persons’s life the cells of the body grow faster and divide faster to create similar cells. As the person grows into adulthood, the process of division slows down and finally gets limited only to replace wear and tear at a later stage in the person’s life.

This whole process of cell division is guided by a pattern called DNA. The DNA is like a blueprint that is present in each and every cell of the body. This blueprint decides when the cell has to divide and when it needs to stop functioning.

 Under normal circumstances, this process goes on very smoothly in an organized manner. But, due to certain conditions, that cause damage to the DNA sequence of a cell, may accelarate the whole process, and may create special type of cells, which are normally not found in the body.

 These cells, divide at a much faster rate as compared to the normal body cells, and may migrate into other parts of the body to infect other cells, resulting in tremendous growth of cells in some part of the body, often resulting in a cellular mass called tumor.

This whole process of infection of healthy cells and formation of tumor is collectively summed up under the name of cancer.

Cancer Symptoms

Symptoms Of Cancer:

 1. Smoking

2. Working in hazardous environments without proper safety measure e-g an a plant that treats nuclear watses, or a plant that produces chemical based artificial dyes.

 3. Age, Sex and Ethinicity of the person

4. History of cancer in the family.

Cancer Causes

How is Cancer Caused : 

Cancer is caused due to damage to the structure of DNA that governs the process of cell division. This may have happened as a result of different activities like smoking, working in unhealthy circumstances etc, so that cancer causing agents or Carcinogens have entered into the bloodstream.
These carcinogens in turn cause damage or mutation in the DNA of the cell, this damage in turn activates a set of genes called “Oncogenes”. These are responsible for the rapid increase in the process of division, causing cancer.

Cancer Stages

Stages Of Cancer :

A cancer can be classified into different Stages based on how abnormal the cells look under the microscope. If the cells look more like normal cells then the cancer is said to be 1st Stages cancer, while the more abnormal the cancerous cells look under the microscope the 2nd Stages is the cancer.

Lower Stages cancers progress slowly and tend to end up well at the end. While the 2nd Stages ones progress faster and are life threatning.

Cancer Awareness

Awareness Of Cancer :

It has been brought forward by a recently conducted research that drinking coffee may reduce the chances of getting inflicted by Oral cancer. It has been found that drinking about 5 or more cups of coffee per day helps reducing the chances of catching oral caner.

This fact was brought forward by a cancer research team who carried on their study with 5,139 people who have had head or neck area cancer during some time in their life against 9,028 people who have remained cancer free for their entire life.

The research showed that people who drank more than about 4 cups of coffee per day had lowered their risk of getting mouth cancer by about 39%. The risk was lowered for oral and pharangeal cancers but not for larynx cancer.

Although coffee was seen to be useful for people in general, but the cancer risk reducing effects of coffee were not diminished for people who had the habit of alcohol and tobacco. Peolple who had coffee but less than 5 cups per day had lower but still statistically significant risk lowerance in terms of mouth cancer.

Light to moderate coffee drinking habits although had no effect in terms of lowering the head and neck area cancer risk.

Coffee consumption in heavy amounts is also known to prevent aggressive forms of prostate cancer and leads to improved mental function.

While coffee is an extremely popular drink among the professional enganged with different sorts of professions, yet the exact factor in coffee that reduces the risk of cancer is yet to be discovered. Apart from the well known ingredient called caffine, coffee contains a number of ingredients which are not famous such as kahweol and cafestrol which are known to be anti cancer agents.

Cancer Awareness Jewelry

Cancer Awareness Jewelry:

In the recent years, while more and more people are being diagnosed with the deadly disease of cancer and only a small percentage of them are treated successfully. Even after successful treatment, the fear of recurrence keeps on lurking.

Under such circumstances there is need for some motivational icon which can provide hope and strength of mind to the patients in their fight against this deadly disease. For example, the pink ribbon campaign made the fight against breast cancer popular amongst the masses.
These types of icons help to provide emotional and practical support to the cancer patients.

A recent addition to this trend is the cancer awareness jewelry. Cancer awareness jewelry is available in form of treasured bracelets, earrings, anklets or rings that allow the friends and families of the cancer survivors and those undergoing treatment – to celebrate the beauty and strength of positive hope.

Cancer awareness jewelry is available in different colors. These colors signify the fight against different types of cancer. These are enumerated as under.

Clear – Lung Cancer, Emphysema

Grey – Brain Cancer & Tumors

Burgandy – Multiple Myeloma

Brown – Colorectal

Black – Melanoma

Yellow – Bladder and Liver Cancers

Dark Blue – Colon Cancer

Light Blue – Prostrate Cancer, Thyroid Cancer & Disease

Lime Green – Lymphoma

Teal – Ovarian Cancer, Cervical Cancer

Lavender – General Cancer Awareness

Green – Kidney Cancer, Bone Marrow

Orange – Leukemia

Gold -Childhood Cancer

Pink – Breast Cancer

Purple- Pancreatic Cancer

Peach – Uterine Cancer

Red – Multiple Mylenoma

White – Bone Cancer



There are still some other types of jewelry that can provide hope, enthusiasm and moral support to people who are fighting against cancer.

A teal ribbon bracelet set with Swarovski crystals and freshwater pearls or hand-set crystal necklace with toggle link bracelet, might be encouraging for a friend or a family member fighting ovarian cancer. Again a sterling silver bracelet decorated with gray crystals and a sterling ribbon charm may prove to be encouraging to someone fighting brain cancer.

Cancer survivor rings send a strong message of celebration and hope to the cancers survivors whose cancer has shown an instance of recurrence.

In addition to above suggested jewelry, any other jewelry with charms such as a ribbon charm, or the birthstone of the person who is fighting cancer sends out a strong message of support and love during a time of crisis.

Finally, in today’s world where everyday someone or somebody in relation to a person is falling pray to cancer, the cancer awareness jewelry is definitely a means to convey a message of love and support when it is required most.

Breast Cancer

What Is Breast Cancer:

Breast cancer or cancer on the breast can occur in both the sexes,but in general it is found within females. Its a very common type of cancer that can happen to women.

 When abnormal cells in our body start to grow and divide and then reproduce in an uncontrollable way,it becomes a disease which is commonly known as cancer. From here the abnormal cells enters and destroys the healthy tissues and also the organs. Malignant or cancer tissues grows in the breast during breast cancer. Then it gathers to form a lump.

Symptoms Of Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer Symptoms :

Symptoms of breast cancer can differ from person to person, and can include:

1. A lump in the breast will be formed that won’t go away even after the menstrual period.

2. Nipple would be affected to changes where it seems to get inverted and even there may be a blood-stained discharge from it.

3. A women will have a change in her breast shape and size also.

4. A change in the texture of the breast could be noticed for example dimpling.

5. Its a rare case where the patient may have a painful breast.

Earlier Signs Breast Cancer

Colon Cancer

What is Colon Cancer

Colon is the most important parts of our digestive system. Colon cancer takes place when there is a growth of the malignant tissue in colon. This cancer can harm our r digestive system and colon cancer is one of the more dreaded cancers.

Causes of colon cancer

The things that increase the risk of colon cancer are colon related diseases and incorrect eating habits. High fiber diet (i.e. vegetables and fruits) can help in reducing the risk of colon cancer. Colon cancer is also linked to genes and there are theories that suggest that people with family history of colon cancer are at greater risk of developing colon cancer.

Recommended links :

Colon Cancer Treatment 
Symptoms of Colon Cancer

Colon Cancer Symptoms

Symptoms of Colon Cancer :

1. Irregular bowel movements: If there is colon cancer one can have less or more bowel movements. You can even experience constipation more often. This is because the tumor in your colon is already obstructing the regular flow of your bowel.

2. Stomach Cramps- We can feel stomach cramps and sometimes even bloating due to bowel obstruction. As the tumor grows bigger, it could actually be perforating the bowel wall causing pain and discomfort.

3. Bloody Stool- Bleeding in the bowel can be noticed.Sometimes the blood will be present in a very small amount and cannot be noticed. But there are also cases, where the stool is really bloody. A fecal occult blood testcan confirm presence of blood in your stool.

4. Unexplained weight loss- Weight loss is one of the classic sign of cancer.  If you are losing weight even if you are not trying, you should ask your doctor.

5. Fatigue- Another colon cancer symptom to look out for is unexplained tiredness. Some experts link this symptom to anemia or iron deficiency. To be sure, you should have your blood checked.

6. Nausea and vomiting- You might feel nauseous and even vomit for no apparent reason because of the tumor in your colon area.

7. Gassy- Obstruction of the colon by a tumor causes air to be trapped.


Recommended links :

Treatment Of Colon Cancer
What is Colon Cancer

Treatment Of Colon Cancer

Colon Cancer Treatment: 

Effectiveness of the treatment of colon cancer is governed by how early it is detected/ diagnosed. There are various ways of treating colon cancer and researchers are always looking for newer and better ways of treating colon cancer. However, as of now, surgical procedures are one of the prime treatments for colon cancer.

As told before the colon is an essential part of the digestive track. Aside from aiding in the digestion of food, it also eliminates waste products. However, with several tempting foods in the market, it's so easy to go out of the healthy diet. Poor diet will result in constipation and other gastrointestinal problems. When the colon is clogged up with accumulated feces, it fails to carry its function properly.

Colon hydrotherapy is similar to enema. Enema is a treatment that helps to clean the colon. Their only difference is that colon hydrotherapy is much more extensive.  Whereas enema only cleanses the lower portion, colon hydrotherapy aims to clean the entire colon, which is roughly five feet in length.

Enema has been around for several centuries already. However, complete cleansing of the colon has gained prominence only in the late 19th century. This started with the popularity of the idea of auto intoxication. It has been suggested that the body could poison itself by the release of toxins from accumulated fecal matter in the colon into the blood stream.

For general health checks, getting a colon hydrotherapy once a year should be enough. However, pregnant women in their third trimester should not undergo this treatment. Colon hydrotherapy is also not recommended for those with severe hemorrhoids, abdominal hernia, heart disease, amoebic dysentery, and diverticulitis among other health problems. You would have to discuss your present medical condition first with your colon therapist to make sure there would be no complications.

Recommended links :

Colon Cancer Symptoms
Colon Cancer

Colon Cancer Pictures

Breast Cancer Pictures

Gallbladder Cancer

What is Gallbladder Cancer :

Gallbladder is an organ which includes many functions and in many cases very important to survival, but sometimes create problems. Problems takes place when gallstones or gallbladder or polyps and cultured form there. That sounds horrible, however the polyps aren't necessarily adverse conditions or otherwise being developed. Obviously, the polyps are examined, because there can be a small probability of cancer.

As soon as the gallbladder polyp is often a rare, is the fact that about 5% of those training institutions. Generally our body covers the tissues though the gallbladder is subject to their training, specifically for people who currently have gallstones. Five forms of polyps, gallbladder, each of these tumors could be detected by ultrasound, should consult a specialist.

Gallbladder Cancer Symptoms

Symptoms Of Gallbladder Cancer :

Almost everyone with gallbladder polyps haven't any symptoms or pain. However, in the event the polyps reach a sized six inches or maybe more, then your effects can be experienced. These effects aren't gallstones and polyps. If polyps are discovered gallbladder is accidental and unintentional.

The larger tumors are not really a concern, but larger polyps may also be a sign of cancer and may be examined by way of a specialist. Patients who have difficulty with the liver and bile ducts to fret, gallbladder polyps may be malignant. In case if the polyp is just too large and there's plausible of cancer, although benign, there is certainly only 1 real solution. Take the gallbladder. It's not a challenge, plus a normal person and may be good without that body.

Gallbladder Cancer Signs

Signs Of Gallbladder Cancer :

Normally signs and symptoms of cancerous tumors generally speaking, the gallbladder during the last year taken from the tumors and connoisseurs of infection within the gallbladder will also be aware. So those that have gallbladder problems should leave his problem regularly.

The symptoms for gallbladder cancer are a weakness, loss in appetite, and likewise, body mass, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. That is certainly also the gallbladder is probably higher. Signs and symptoms of tumors of the gallbladder could be followed by fever, swelling and irritation. One and only effective treatment for cancer of the gallbladder is surgical treatment for the whole organ is probably the best remedies for that condition described.

Since real development indicators past too far (too far gone), the cancer will go into your last period so it's difficult or perhaps extremely tough to help you rectify the problem. The gallbladder, but is just not guaranteed until this concern is really gone, as well as the patient's experience. Sometimes, death occur inspite of the decline was the gallbladder.

Find gallbladder cancer symptoms

The signals can be shown inside tumors in the gallbladder when we cannot find other diseases. We've got to remain calm after i position the indicators and wait for a diagnosis from the doctor. Drug testing is recommended should you have any problems with your gallbladder. The advisable one goes that to manage us for their health, nutrition and life skills. This should help you enjoy life without problems, and will not delay until symptoms occur.Frequent monitoring from the drugs which could actually save lives as well as your doctor provides you with a remedy to everyone questions you might have and present information on effective treatment of complications with the gallbladder cancer symptoms.

Gallbladder Cancer Pictures

Bladder Cancer

What Is Bladder Cancer:

The bladder cancer is the cancer that occurs in the urinary bladder of the humans. The bladder in the humans is a hollow muscular organ that holds urine inside the body. The kidneys which produce urine deposit it in the bladder through special ducts called ureters.
A normal bladder can hold upto two 2 cups of urine. This urine is then throws out through urethra during the time of urination.
This bladder is made up of different layers of cell. A layer of cells called the urothelial cells, or transitional cells. Below that is a thin layer of cells called the lamina propria, proceeded by a layer of muscles called muscularis propria.
The cancer in any of these layers of the bladder is called bladder cancer.

Short description on CANCER

CANCER (medical term: malignant neoplasm) is a class of diseases in which cells are out of control !!! (beyond the normal limits)... Usually, the timing of cell division is under strict constraint, involving a network of signals that work together to say when a cell can divide, how often it should happen and how errors can be fixed... The branch of medicine concerned with the study, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer is oncology..

Should We Treat Cancer or Prevent Cancer?

Cancer is one of the biggest killers around the world. In America alone, 25% of all deaths are related to cancer.

Many people think of cancer as a single problem but in fact, it is a number of problems spread throughout the body. Generally speaking, if cancer is caught in the early stages of development, it can be treated and cured.

Although there are several different types of cancer, the most common ones are Lung, Prostate, Breast, Testicular, Skin and Colon cancers.

Genes control the multiplication and growth of cells. If these genes are defective in the first place, then the cells will not be able to grow or divide properly. As a result of this abnormality, cancerous cells are born.

There are a number of factors which cause cancer. Factors which are controllable by humans are smoking, toxic elements and radiation. These can be controlled to some degree and therefore it would be wise to avoid them by changing lifestyle habits. However, there are certain elements which are outside our control.
These include mutation and inherited DNA.

As a result of studies conducted by the American Cancer Society, more than 180,000 people have died as a direct result of smoking. Another 200,000 people have died due to lack of changing lifestyle habits. Obesity, laziness and malnutrition can have an effect on the growth of cancer. Needless to say, cancer has risen by more than 50% since 1995.

Let's take a look at some of these cancer causes in more detail.

Smoking: The most prevalent and easily avoidable type of cancer is the one caused by the use of tobacco. This includes the use of cigarettes, cigars and pipes. Even though smokers are addicted to nicotine, the fact that 200,000 people die every year due to smoking caused cancer should be enough motivation to quit. Some experts say that cessation of smoking can increase lifespan by up to 20 years.

Although nothing has been proven, studies indicate that stress may also be a contributing factor to cancer. Many cancer patients are also employed in stressful jobs. Some theologians believe that stress lowers the bodies immunity to cancer.

Exercise and Healthy Eating: Healthy eating and exercise is universally known to be beneficial in many aspects. But, many people don't know that food full of nutrition can reduce the risk of cancer. Specific foods such as fruit and veg can help prevent cancer whilst fatty foods such as meat can increase the likelihood of cancer.

Skin cancer can easily be avoided by simply listening to good advice. Wear sunglasses, hats, sun cream and other sensible items of clothing to avoid the onset of this type of cancer. Although this may seem like common sense, more than one million people have been diagnosed with skin cancer in a single year.

Study: Childhood Cancer Survivors Less Likely to Marry

 

A recent study suggests that childhood cancer survivors are 20% to 25% less likely to marry compared with their siblings and the general American population. It is suspected that some of the lingering effects of radiation—such as issues with thinking and memory, growth and physical functioning—seemed to cause these lower marriage rates among cancer survivors. Lead researcher Kadan-Lottick stated, “While it can be debated whether marriage is a desirable outcome, marriage is generally an expected developmental goal in our society to the extent that most U.S. adults are married by the age of 30. Our results suggest that survivors of childhood cancer need ongoing support even as they enter adulthood.”

Cancer Preventive Measures

Cancer is a very deadly disease. This disease is one of the most deadly in terms of numbers killed year in and out. According to statistics one in three people will be affected by cancer. And one in four people will die of cancer. However cancer could be prevented in certain situations. The first step in cancer prevention is learning what causes it and the risk factors involved. Avoiding these risk factors can help a person reduce the likelihood of having cancers.

Here are the following risk factors that a person can avoid to prevent cancer.

1. Tobacco – 30% of all cancer deaths in the United States are caused by smoking. It is also responsible for 87% of all people affected by lung cancer. Aside from the lungs, other organs affected by smoking are pancreas, cervix, kidney, stomach and also cause acute myeloid leukemia. Quit smoking to decrease your chances of having cancer. Also try to avoid secondary smoke, secondary smoke can also be deadlier.

2. Have more physical activity – exercise greatly helps reduce your chances of having cancer. Even if it is only for 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. Exercising will also make you fit against other disease such as heart ailments. Try the exercise activities such as walking, running, aerobics, or yoga. Exercising can also help prevent obesity, which is also one major cause of cancer. Colon, breast, prostrate, endometrial, and lung cancer can have less chances of developing if you are exercising regularly.

3. Genetics – genetics is one of the causes of cancers. When your family has a history of cancer, the best thing to do is just take precaution. If your family has had a history of cancer, the mutated gene which causes cancer may have been passed down. If your family has had a history, you may get a genetic test. Remember that if your family has had a history of cancer it is not certain that you will have it. Your chances of developing it are just greater.

4. Environmental Factors – exposure to certain things within your environment can cause you cancer. Such things like asbestos or benzene can be able to cause cancer.

5. Unsafe Sex – you are suddenly exposed to not only HIV but also HPV. HPV is also known as Human Pappiliona Virus. Having this virus greatly increase a person’s chance of having anal, vulvar, cervical, or vaginal cancer. There are tests that help a person find out if he or she has the HPV virus. You will need to scrape the cervical cells and send them over to a lab.

6. Sun Exposure – greatly exposing yourself to UV rays will cause skin cancer. Be very wise when tanning or being exposed under the sun.

Thousands wear teal to raise awareness of ovarian cancer

Washington, D.C. – September marks the nationwide observance of National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. The first Friday in September -- September 4, 2009 -- was the National Teal Day and the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance will lead the efforts of thousands of Americans wearing teal to increase awareness about the deadly disease. Teal was the ovarian cancer community’s color and serves as a reminder that ovarian cancer is the deadliest of all the cancers of the reproductive system and a leading cause of cancer death among women.  

 

In addition to wearing teal, the 47 Partner Member organizations of the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance are hosting events across the country including health fairs, walk/runs and fundraisers. The Kaleidoscope of Hope Foundation of New Jersey will “Turn the Town Teal” by blanketing their community with teal ribbons, balloons and flyers - an annual affair. The South Carolina Ovarian Cancer Foundation is releasing hundreds of butterflies in memory or in honor of loved ones to benefit ovarian cancer research and awareness. Annette Leal Mattern, ovarian cancer survivor and Co-founder of the Ovarian Cancer Alliance of Arizona, says “We reached our goal to inform one million women in Arizona about the symptoms of ovarian cancer this year by partnering with Major League Baseball and the Arizona Diamondbacks. An early diagnosis is a woman’s best chance of survival.”

 

The Ovarian Cancer National Alliance strengthened its voice for the ovarian cancer community through relationships with Cartier, the Entertainment Industry Foundation and TriStar Products, Inc. In addition, the cause has been bolstered by celebrity support from Danica Patrick, Dara Torres, Janet Jackson, Kathy Bates and Rachel Zoe, who have all been touched by the disease in some way.

 

“Talking about this disease at the national level is essential because diagnosing it is so difficult. September is our opportunity to significantly increase awareness across the United States and ultimately, help save women’s lives,” explains Judith Abrams, President of the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance. 

 

If the following symptoms occur almost daily for more than two weeks, the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance advises that women see a gynecologist. These symptoms include: 

 
Bloating 
Pelvic or abdominal pain 
Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly 
Urinary symptoms (urgency or frequency) 

 

There is no definitive test for ovarian cancer so experts suggest a combination of pelvic/rectal exam, a CA-125 blood test and a transvaginal ultrasound. 

 

Established in 1997, the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance is the foremost advocate for ovarian cancer in the United States. Until there is a cure for the disease, the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance, a 501(c) (3) organization, leads the national initiative to conquer ovarian cancer by uniting individuals and organizations at the local, state, and national levels to advance ovarian cancer research in the quest for early detection tests, improved health care practices, and development of live-saving treatment protocols.

 

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What are the adrenal glands?

The adrenal glands are small glands that lie just above each kidney (which is sometimes called the adrenal glands for that reason). They are triangular shaped and are composed of several distinct parts:

The central part of the gland called the adrenal medulla and produces the chemicals epinephrine (also called adrenaline) and norepinephrine. Both of these chemicals are involved in regulating the nervous system. Epinephrine controls the stress response in the short term (also known as fight or flight response). While norepinephrine also plays a role in stress response in the short term, work on the regulation of mood and attention, too.

The outside of the gland surrounding the medulla is the adrenal cortex. This part of the adrenal gland is primarily responsible for producing steroid hormones in the body. There are several types of steroid hormones that are produced by the adrenal glands. Mineralocorticoids (such as aldosterone) are steroid hormones the help regulate the salt levels in the body by regulating the absorption and excretion of salt and water by the kidneys. This in turn helps to regulate blood pressure. Glucocorticoids (eg cortisol) are steroid hormones that play a critical role in the regulation of sugar in the body. These hormones also help regulate fat deposits in the body act as an anti-inflammatory power, and play an important role in fetal development, particularly in lung maturation. The adrenal cortex produces several sex steroid hormones, including androgens (critical for male sexual development) and precursors to estrogen (critical for female sexual development).

What are adrenal tumors, and what types of adrenal tumors are there?

Normally, the body's cells grow and divide to replace old or damaged cells. This growth is highly regulated, and once enough cells are produced to replace the old, normal cells stop dividing. Tumors occur when there is an error in this process, and cells continue to grow in an uncontrolled manner. Tumors can be benign or malignant. Although benign tumors may grow in an uncontrolled way, do not spread to other parts of the body (metastasis), or invade the surrounding tissues. Malignant tumors (also known as cancer) will grow without control, so that invade and damage other tissues around them. They also gain the ability to break from where you start and spread to other parts of the body, usually through the bloodstream or lymphatic system in the lymph nodes are found (a process known as metastasis).

The most common tumor of the adrenal gland is actually a benign tumor called adrenal adenoma. In most patients, these benign tumors do not cause a patient to have symptoms and do not need to be treated. They are usually found when a patient has a CT (or CAT) from the body for an unrelated reason, and are therefore sometimes called 'incidentalomas'. The most common malignant tumors found in the adrenal gland of tumors that originate from cancer cells that have metastasized (or spread) in other parts of the body to the adrenal gland through the bloodstream. There are different types of cancer can spread to the adrenal glands, most commonly melanomas, lung cancer and breast cancer. The adrenal glands are the fourth most common site in the body for cancer cells to metastasize to, after the lungs, liver and bones.

Cancers can arise directly from the adrenal glands, however, these are relatively rare. Cancers can arise directly from the adrenal cortex and are called adrenal cortical cancers. These cancers may be functioning (meaning they secrete excess steroid hormones) or non-functioning (meaning they do not secrete steroids). Functioning adrenal cortical cancers are more common than cancers that do not work. The cancer can also arise within the adrenal medulla, the most common of which are pheochromocytomas. In children, neuroblastoma tumors can develop within adrenal medulla. Pheochromocytomas and neuroblastomas was discussed elsewhere individually, will not be discussed further in this review.

Other types of adrenal cancers can occur, such as lymphoma, however, these cases are rare.

What are the signs of adrenal cortical tumors?

Ambos los adenomas of the suprarrenales y los cánceres corticales suprarrenales pueden producir exceso de hormonas esteroides. Los síntomas varían dependiendo del esteroide que se produce. Si la aldosterona demasiado, que es un tipo de hormona de esteroides, se produce, el síndrome de Conn (también conocido como hiperaldosteronismo primario) se pueden desarrollar. El síndrome de Conn ocurre más comúnmente con adenoma de hipófisis, pero también puede ocurrir en el contexto de la hiperplasia suprarrenal (un crecimiento excesivo de tejido normal corteza suprarrenal) y los cánceres corticales suprarrenales. Los signos del síndrome de Conn incluyen la presión arterial elevada, disminución de los niveles de potasio en la sangre y disminución de los niveles de una sustancia química producida por los riñones llamada renina en la sangre. En la mayoría de los casos de síndrome de Conn, las elevaciones de la presión arterial son de leve a moderada. Otros síntomas incluyen debilidad, calambres musculares, aumento de sed, y una mayor frecuencia de la micción.

El cortisol es una hormona esteroide producida por separado dentro de la corteza suprarrenal. Si un tumor produce exceso de cortisol, el síndrome de Cushing (también conocido como hipercortisolismo) puede desarrollarse. Este síndrome no sólo se observa con los tumores suprarrenales, pero también puede ser el resultado de niveles excesivos de la hormona suprarrenal cortical estimulante (también conocida como ACTH, una hormona que es responsable de estimular las glándulas suprarrenales para producir cortisol) producida por la glándula pituitaria o otro tumor en el cuerpo. El síndrome de Cushing puede también desarrollarse en pacientes que están tomando esteroides como medicación para otros desórdenes. Los síntomas del síndrome de Cushing pueden variar of grandemente de paciente a paciente e implican una serie de diferentes partes del cuerpo. Los síntomas incluyen aumento de peso y retención de agua que resulta en una cara redonda y acumulación de grasa en la parte posterior de los hombros y el cuello (la llamada 'joroba de búfalo'). Rayas rojas pueden aparecer en la piel conocidas como estrías. el crecimiento excesivo de vello (llamado hirsutismo) también puede ser visto. Los niveles excesivos de cortisol puede interferir con el sistema inmunológico del cuerpo que predisponen a un paciente a las infecciones inusuales. Los pacientes con síndrome de Cushing están en alto riesgo para el desarrollo de la diabetes. Los pacientes también pueden tener cambios mentales, incluyendo cambios de humor, irritabilidad, y en el peor de los casos, los episodios psicóticos. En los niños, el cortisol excesivo puede conducir a un desarrollo prematuro y la maduración sexual (también llamada pubertad precoz).

Los tumores suprarrenales pueden también causar el exceso de producción de las hormonas sexuales. Si se produce exceso de testosterona, virilización puede ocurrir en hombres o mujeres. Virilización causa características masculinas crecientes, dando lugar a la voz más grave, la pérdida de cabello y aumento del tamaño del clítoris en las mujeres. Feminización puede ocurrir en hombres con exceso de producción de estrógeno, y puede causar impotencia sexual y / o crecimiento de las mamas (ginecomastia).

Los tumores suprarrenales pueden también causar síntomas por el espacio que ocupan en el abdomen. Los pacientes con grandes tumores suprarrenales pueden experimentar sentimientos de plenitud abdominal o dolor localizado. Los pacientes pueden sentirse como si estuviera llena rápidamente al comer y pueden experimentar pérdida de peso. En algunos casos de grandes tumores suprarrenales, los pacientes pueden realmente sentir una masa en su abdomen.

What is the anus?

The anus is an organ that is at the end of the digestive tract below the rectum. It consists of two sections: the anal canal and anus (or anal verge). The anal canal is a structure of 3-4 cm in length that lies between the anal sphincter (one of the muscles that control bowel movements) just below the rectum and the anal verge which represents the transition point between the tract tract and the skin on the outside of the body. Muscles in the anal canal and anus control passage of stool from the rectum to outside the body.

What is anal cancer?

Normally, the body's cells grow and divide to replace old or damaged cells in the body. This growth is highly regulated, and once enough cells are produced to replace the old, normal cells stop dividing. Tumors occur when there is an error in this regulation and cells continue to grow uncontrolled. Tumors can be benign or malignant. Although benign tumors may grow of
dysplasia is sometimes referred to as anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) uncontrolled fashion sometimes, they do not spread beyond the body part where they started (metastasize) and do not invade surrounding tissues. Malignant tumors, however, will grow so that invade and damage other tissues around them. They can also spread to other parts of the body, usually through the bloodstream or lymphatic system through the lymph nodes, where they are. Over time, cells in a malignant tumor increasingly abnormal and appear less like normal cells. This change in the appearance of cancer cells is called the grade of the tumor and cancer cells are described as well differentiated, moderately differentiated, poorly differentiated or undifferentiated. well-differentiated cells are quite normal appearing and resemble normal cells from which they came. The cells are undifferentiated cells that have become so abnormal that often we can not say what types of cells began.

Anal cancer is a malignant tumor or the anal canal or anal margin. In the United States, 80% of anal cancers are squamous cell cancers,, resembling the cells found in the anal canal., This is not true in other parts of the world, however. In Japan, 80% of anal cancers are adenocarcinomas, resembling the glandular cells seen in the rectum. Cancers of the anal verge may be referred to as 'perianal skin cancer,' because usually behave more like skin cancers such as anal cancer. They may respond less to treatment than other forms of anal cancer. Perianal skin cancers represent about 25% of anal cancers. Occasionally, other types of cancer, including melanoma, Kaposi's sarcoma and lymphoma may develop in the anus. These other types of cancer are discussed separately, and will not be discussed further in this review.

Anal cancers often start as anal dysplasia. anal dysplasia is composed of cells from the anus that have abnormal changes, but show no evidence of invasion into surrounding tissues. The most severe form of anal dysplasia is called carcinoma in situ. In the case of carcinoma in situ, cells have become cancerous but have not begun to invade normal tissue yet. Over time, changes in anal dysplasia to the point where cells become invasive and increasing the capacity of metastasis, or break way to other parts of the body. Anal dysplasia sometimes referred to as anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN), or a 'pre-cancer.' When anal cancer spreads, it most commonly spreads through direct invasion into surrounding tissues or through the lymphatic system. The spread of anal cancer through the blood is less common, although it can occur.

Dieting can cause heart disease, cancer!

LONDON: go on a diet could increase the risk of potentially fatal diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer, a study has found.

The study revealed that controlling your calorie intake produced higher levels of harmful stress hormone cortisol and exposure to the hormone actually made some dieters weight, reports dailymail.co.uk.

Dieting can also damage mental health and many more suffered psychological distress when they were forced constantly counting calories and controlling what they ate.

'Regardless of their success or failure (in the weight loss), if future studies show that diet and stress increases cortisol, doctors may need to rethink recommending their patients to improve health,' the researchers said.

'Chronic stress, and promote weight gain, has been linked to heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and cancer. Diet potentially could add to this burden of stress and its consequences would be better to ignore,' they added.
The study, conducted by the University of the California at San Francisco and the University of Minnesota, looked at 121 women who were placed in a standard three weeks on a diet of 1,200 calories per day - about the daily recommended amount of an average woman 2,000 calories.

Each patient was asked a sample of saliva before and after the study to examine the levels of cortisol. The results showed a significant increase in the amount the hormone after three weeks in the program.

American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life aims to help eliminate disease

Gulf Breeze is the Relay for Life, the annual event that evokes the full range of human emotions. From the pride of the cancer survivors who received his lap around the track at the Dolphin Stadium in sadness on hearing the names called of those who lost the battle, to the joy of children who won prizes in previous games posts carnival fashion and comfort of friends who visit us in lawn chairs outside their tents.

Relay for Life is an event for the whole family, offering dinner, dessert, shopping, and more, with every penny going toward the fight against cancer.

Local bands entertain while team members walk on the trail of a cure. There will be face painting, a basketball shootout, washer release, crab races, massages and even balloon rides in the Re / Max hot air.

The event begins at 6 pm and lasts all night until Saturday at noon.

'You should not eat before coming to Relay,' Shannon Westmoreland, president of Public Liaison, reminds the audience. 'There will be a lot of local food which is difficult to start list.'

This year marks 25 years of broadcasting, and the goal is to make cancer a thing of the past that may harm future generations.

'Relay for Life is a unique opportunity of our community gather to celebrate those who have fought cancer, remember those we've lost, and fight disease,' said Westmoreland. 'Many and the participants are cancer survivors (anyone who has been diagnosed with cancer), which serves as a reminder that our community is not immune to this disease and we can actually help our friends, family and neighbors who have been affected by cancer. '

The public is also invited to attend the Luminaria ceremony just after sunset. To honor cancer survivors and community to remember those lost to the disease, survivors of the track circle surrounded by bright lights while the names of survivors and those lost to the disease are read aloud. Luminaria can be purchased for a donation at the event.

Proceeds from the Relay for Life will enable the American Cancer Society to support local services and resources for cancer patients and their families. Funds also support critical cancer research of community education programs designed to teach people to reduce their risk of developing cancer.

People with vitiligo 'may have skin cancer protection'

The findings, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, emerged from the genetic analysis of 1,514 patients with vitiligo and 2,813 without it.

Total of seven genes were identified that were linked to vitiligo.

70% of the population in general had the combination that increases the risk of vitiligo, while reducing the risk of malignant melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer.

The remaining 30% had a different version that increases the risk of melanoma while reducing the potential for vitiligo.

Although everyone has one of the two alternatives, does not guarantee that any of vitiligo or they suffer from melanoma. Similarly, no guarantees of protection, the study added.

The genes identified as associated with autoimmune conditions such as type 1 diabetes, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.

This led to suggestions of research may even lead to improvements in treatment for vitiligo.

There is currently no cure, although the condition by controlled through steroid creams and ultraviolet light treatment.

But the study said that the future therapy may involve some element of 'calm the immune response.'

Dieting can cause heart disease, cancer!

LONDON: go on a diet could increase the risk of potentially fatal diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer, a study has found.

The study revealed that controlling your calorie intake produced higher levels of harmful stress hormone cortisol and exposure to the hormone actually made some dieters weight, reports dailymail.co.uk.

Dieting can also damage mental health and many more suffered psychological distress when they were forced constantly counting calories and controlling what they ate.

'Regardless of their success or failure (in the weight loss), if future studies show that diet and stress increases cortisol, doctors may need to rethink recommending their patients to improve health,' the researchers said.

'Chronic stress, and promote weight gain, has been linked to heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and cancer. Diet potentially could add to this burden of stress and its consequences would be better to ignore,' they added.
The study, conducted by the University of California of San Francisco and the University of Minnesota, looked at 121 women who were placed in a standard three weeks on a diet of 1,200 calories per day - about the daily recommended amount of an average woman 2,000 calories.

Each patient was asked a sample of saliva before and after the study to examine the levels of cortisol. The results showed a significant increase amount of the hormone after three weeks in the program.

Teenage drinking raises breast disease risk

Young women who drink alcohol are put at greater risk of developing breast disease is a known risk factor for cancer.

Women with benign breast disease have hard lumps in the breast, which can sometimes turn cancerous. The wide range of conditions including irregular cysts, breast discomfort, sensitive nipples, and itching. Previous reports have linked drinking adolescents with benign breast disease based on recollections of the woman many years later, but participants were not followed into adulthood.

To explore the relationship between alcohol consumption during adolescence and risk of benign breast disease (BBD), researchers followed 6899 American women. Participants were made to complete annual questionnaires from 1996 to 2001, when he was 9 to 15 years of age. They were followed by the questionnaires in 2003, 2005 and 2007. In the 2003 survey, participants (who was then 16 to 23 years) provided information on their drinking habits during the previous year. In 2005 and 2007 surveys, a total of 6899 women (18 to 27 years) reported whether a doctor had ever diagnosed the BBD and if confirmed by biopsy.

When the women were interviewed at age 18 to 27 years, 67 - about 1 percent - said they were diagnosed with benign breast disease, and had the diagnosis confirmed by biopsy. After adjusting for factors such as body mass index, found that those who drank more were also more likely to suffer from the disease, with each drink daily average risk. The girls who drank 6 or 7 days a week had a five percent more likely to have benign breast disease than those who never drank or who drank less than once per week.

It is not clear why alcohol may have an effect on the condition, but researchers speculate that the estrogen effect of alcohol on the female hormone - could promote the growth of breast tissue.

Breast Cancer Information

There is lot of information about breast cancer on the internet and books. I have gathered here all the important information regarding breast cancer including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention. Breast cancer is one of the most common cause of death in women but men are rarely affected by this disease. This cancer forms in tissue ducts and milk making glands of the breast.First of all lets have a look on the main symptoms and signs of breast cancerearly breast cancer have practically no symptoms it can only be conformed by the palpation of breast lump by self examination of breast ;lump can be present slightly above the collar bone or it can be also in the armpit if you are suspecting a breast lump do consult your physician;discharge from the breast;changes in the nipple;changes in the breast skin;early detection of breast cancer improves the survival rate.Risk factorsirreversible risk factorsif u are a woman you are in the risk of breast cancer;risk of breast cancer also increases with the age of a person;hereditary inclination that is presence of breast cancer genes or family history of breast cancer;there is a risk of developing breast cancer in women starting menstruating in early age.reversible risk factorshormone therapy;oral contraceptives;hormone therapy started after menopause;alcohol intake;obesity;less physical activity.Tests for the diagnosis of the breast cancermammography;medical resonance imaging;breast biopsy.TreatmentSurgical treatment includes mastectomy or lumpectomy followed by breast reconstruction;adjuvant therapy includes radiotherapy,chemotherapy and hormonal therapy.

Information on Inflammatory Breast Cancer

Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare cancer that happens in a very small percentage of women. It is an aggressive type of locally advanced cancer.In general, women with inflammatory breast cancer are diagnosed at a younger age. In extremely rare circumstances, this form of breast cancer is diagnosed in men. Inflammatory breast cancer usually develops as a sheet rather than a lump.Symptoms of inflammatory breast cancer include:Breast becomes red, purple, pink or bruised; Breast becomes firm and enlarged;A warm feeling in the breast; Itching of the breast; Pain; Skin texture similar to an orange peel; Enlarged lymph nodes under the arm;Flattening of the nipple; Swollen skin on the nipple; Change in color of the skin around the nipple.It is very easy to mix up the symptoms of inflammatory breast cancer with those of a breast infection. If you become aware of any of the signs of inflammatory breast cancer, see your doctor immediately.This form of cancer is not caused by an inflammation or infection. Inflammatory breast cancer happens when cancer cells clog the lymphatic vessels in the skin overlying the breast.In the past, inflammatory breast cancer was treated by surgery and was associated with a 100% mortality rate. Fortunately, major progress has been made in recent years using a combination of treatments, including surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.These treatments have greatly improved the prognosis for a woman with inflammatory breast cancer. Recent studies have shown as much as a 50% survival rate after 5 years and a 35% survival rate after 10 years

New Breast Cancer Awareness And Information

Breast cancer can be said to be one of the oldest known type of cancer tumors in humans mostly in women. The oldest description of this deadly disease, though the term cancer was not used, was discovered in Egypt years ago.
The most prevalent cancer in women is breast cancer, it is also the second most common cause of death in women apart from lung cancer. Because the breast is composed of identical tissues in males and females, breast cancer also occurs in males though it is less common.
In the olden days before technology starts in earnest, there is a believe that there is no treatment for cancer. For years, many physicians in their practices, described similar cases with the same sad conclusion that there is no treatment for cancer.
The story remained the same until some doctors achieved greater understanding of the circulatory system that a link between breast cancer and the lymph nodes in the armpit can be established and be removed at the same time.
The first attempt to remove the lymph nodes, breast tissue, and underlying chest muscle was successful, which removed the fear that there is no treatment for the deadly disease called breast cancer.
Most breast pain or painful breast lump can be a case of early breast cancer. Since breast mammography started, breast cancer is most frequently discovered as an nodule that causes no symptom on a mammogram, before any symptoms are present.
The probability of breast cancer rises with age, but breast cancer tends to be more aggressive when it occurs in younger people

How To Reduce The Risk Of Breast Cancer

For every disease there are some risk factors it is same with breast cancer. There are some risk factors which are not under the control of a person and some risk factors are those which depend on the life style of a person.
First I want to write about the factors which cannot be changed, if you are a woman your risk of getting breast cancer is automatically increased. Women are at a greater risk of getting breast cancer as the breast cells are persistently exposed to hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Men can also suffer from breast cancer but breast cancer in men is a very rare case.
Risk of breast cancer also increases with age. This is also one of the factor which a person can not control. If some gene changes are running in a family that means if the breast cancer is hereditary the chance of getting affected automatically increases without any control on it. If a woman is having cancer in one breast the chance of getting cancer in another breast or in another part of same breast increases. White women are at high risk of breast cancer than Asian women. If a women started menstruating in an early age or went through menopause in later age both of these conditions increase the risk of breast cancer. If a women has gone under radiation therapy in the area of chest because of treatment of other cancers are also at increased risk of breast cancer. Some pregnant women are given diethylstibestrol this is a drug which prevents miscarriage, but the women taking this drug are at increased risk of breast cancer.

What Are The Symptoms Of Breast Cancer

In our world today, breast cancer is one of the most common diseases and causes of death mostly among women. Breast cancer also occur in men though it is less common since the breast is being composed of identical tissues in both males and females.
In the early stage, breast cancer can be in form of painful lump and at times be presented as breast pain. It can also come as inflammation when it is associated with the skin. In this case the breast tumour itself is causing inflammatory reaction of the skin and this causes a lot of pains, swelling, redness of the breast and also warmth throughout the breast.
In addition to this, changes in the shape and appearance of the breast is also suspicious to breast cancer. Before the arrival of X-ray of the breast (mammography) breast cancer is mostly discovered as not showing the evidence of the disease before the symptom comes to existence, which means that the X-ray helps a lot to detect this deadly disease earlier.
Though not all the breast symptoms turns out to be breast cancer but skin changes of the nipples is one of the late manifestation of cancer. At any age, the appearance of any breast symptom should be taken seriously by both the patient and the doctor meanwhile there may be possibility of breast cancer in any breast symptom.
Furthermore, breast cancer orgasms that spreads beyond original organ through blood surface, and this causes symptoms that depends on the location of the organ. These common organs include the brain, liver, lung bone etc though the symptoms on these organs may occur as a rusult of illnesses or disease.

Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

There are many different risk factors for breast cancer. The most significant of these risks factors is gender and age. Most occurrences of breast cancer occur in a certain gender and age group. Even though those outside this gender and age group are still at risk for breast cancer, the risk is not as great.
Women are at the greatest risk of developing breast cancer. Contrary to what many people believe, men can also develop breast cancer. However, women are at a much greater risk of developing breast cancer than men. Age also plays a factor in the development of breast cancer. The cancer is far more common in women over 50 versus women under 20.
Women who have relatives with breast cancer are also at a greater risk of developing the cancer themselves. This risk increases with first-degree relatives like a mother, sister, or daughter. A male relative with prostate cancer also increases the risk of developing breast cancer. If a mother and sister both have breast cancer then the risk is increased.
A history of breast cancer also leaves women at a greater risk of developing the same cancer. This happens when the cancer cells spread to the lymph glands. There is a great risk that the cancer will develop in the opposite breast. When breast conservation therapy is used as treatment for the cancer, there is a risk of cancer redeveloping in the same breast.
Some hormonal factors increase the risk of breast cancer. A woman who started her menstrual period before the age of 12 has a slightly increased risk of developing breast cancer. This is also true of women that have menopause after 55, women who have a first child after age 30, and women that have never had children.
If you happen to fall into this category,You should have a mamograhm at Least once a year.
As Like any Cancer it can sneak up on us very Quickly. Early detection is our best chance of fighting this Disease.

Breast Cancer - Another Obesity Victim

Obesity raises the risk of various types of cancer. And only 3% people know that obesity increases cancer risks. According to a recent research based on one million Americans conducted by the American cancer society, 14% of cancer deaths in men and 20% of cancer deaths in women occur due to Obesity. Scientists say that 90,000 deaths can be avoided in America if they take good care to maintain their body weight. Women are more likely to get cancer in their breasts, gallbladder, ovaries, colon and cervix while men get cancer in colon and rectum.
Breast cancer in women:There are more than 200 different types of cancer, but together breast, lung, bowel and prostate cancer cover half of the cancer cases. Breast cancer is the most common cancer found in females. Overweight and obesity are the major causes of breast cancer.
Obesity and Breast cancer risk in females:Obese women have higher amounts of estrogen in their body. Estrogen is mainly produced from the fatty tissues and more amount of fat in your body means you have higher chances of getting affected by breast cancer. Good nutrition, healthy living conditions and a fine environment may help girls to start puberty earlier in life and attain menopause later. Estrogen develops though out the fertility period. And better levels of estrogen in the body increases the risk of breast cancer in women.
Breast cancer in men:Breast cancer is generally found in females but it is also seen in males. Recent research shows that breast cancer among males is also on the increase. And obesity is one of its main causes. In males too estrogen is responsible for breast cancer.
Obesity and breast cancer :• Obesity affects both the development and progression of breast cancer.• Post menopausal cancer risk is higher among obese women.• Breast cancer mortality is higher in obese women.• Body weight measured at different times during life also causes breast cancer.

The Spread Of Breast Cancer

There was a time when the main victim of breast cancer was white, well off women. The disease was though to afflict only women in developed societies. Breast cancer may have had a limited range in the past, but today breast cancer is changing. In Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, breast cancer rates are rising at enormous levels.
In the past decade alone, breast cancer rates in these less developed countries have risen as much as seven times. The huge increase in breast cancer rates in less developed countries is quickly putting an end to the well off, white woman stereotype.
By the year 2020, it is estimated that 70% of global breast cancer rates will come from those living in developing countries. Some of the reason for this change is actually because of better sanitation and control of diseases. The technological improvement in these developing countries has extended the life spans of the low and middle class residents.
Since breast cancer affects an older demographic of women, a longer life span is part of the reason why breast cancer rates are rising in developing countries. A further reason why breast cancer rates in developing countries are rising could be because of the spread of western habits. Habits such as fatty diets and lack of exercise may lead to higher breast cancer rates.
While these higher global breast cancer rates are a concern, global efforts have been formed to fight breast cancer. Susan G. Komen for the Cure is an advocacy group with 125 affiliates around the world. The group is putting together a plan of action against breast cancer for 31 countries. Breast cancer is a rising problem, but many people are uniting against the disease.

Breast Cancer - What You Should Know

What is it? Abnormal cell growth in an uncontrolled way is called as cancer. Your breasts are made up of glands which consist of cells. These glands produce breast milk after pregnancy. The cells that make the glands sometimes may become uncontrolled and grow in an inorderly manner and cause a lump.
Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in females. WHO (World Health Organization) estimated that breast cancer is the main cause of cancer death among women. Some breast cancers may occur in males but it is very rare. When you find a small lump in your breast, be aware, it may be breast cancer.
All lumps that you find may not be an indicator of breast cancer. But find it out, it may be also. In general lumps in your breast do not mean cancer in most of the cases. But make it sure through checking by a medical professional. There are two types of lumps or tumours, one is benign and the other is malignant. Benign tumours do not spread but the malignant do. They are the breast cancer causing tumours.
Breast cancer starts with a limp and then spread to other parts of your body. It may grow quickly or slowly. Early diagnosis is important for survival. There are different types of breast cancers present. They are – Ductal carcinoma. The spread of this type among women is 65 to 90 %Lobular carcinoma 10 %Metaplastic carcinomaInflammatory breast cancerPapillary carcinoma 1%Medullary carcinoma 5 %Colloid carcinoma 2%
Bikash is an MBA who works as an freelance writer. He worked for one of the best private banks in India. He has been writing for the last 5 years. He has worked with many US,UK and Indian clients.

Four Inflammatory Breast Cancer Signs & Six FAQs

Nearly 200,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year and over 40,000 will die from it. There are seven different types of breast cancer, some more severe and with a lower survival rate than others.

One breast cancer type called Inflammatory breast cancer, or IBC, is a unique and aggressive kind that is rare, accounts for 1 - 5% of all cases, but deadly. It is one of the only breast cancer types that have no lumps, which makes it one of the most undetectable and scariest.

There are four breast cancer signs that could mean you have inflammatory breast cancer:


Skin around the breast is hot to the touch

Breasts are asymmetrical and were not before

The skin becomes red or pink

There is discharge from the nipples


Below are six frequently asked questions about inflammatory breast cancer.

What should you do if you if you have these symptoms?
If any of these signs persist for more than a week, speak to a physician.

What is the median age affected?
Women 45 – 55 are more susceptible to this specific type of breast cancer.

How do you identify inflammatory breast cancer?
Through surgical biopsy. IBC cannot be identified through Mammogram, Ultrasound, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), or Core biopsy.

What is the survival rate?
IBC has a 40% survival rate over a five year period. Many times the surgeon may remove the breast too early and cause a reoccurrence.

How is Inflammatory Breast Cancer Treated?
Chemotherapy before surgery, as well as drugs such as trastuzumab and lapatinib.

Can Breast Cancer Be Detected Earlier?

Breast screening can be referred to as the test or examination of breast which is used to detect any type of disease, such as cancer, in people who do not have any such symptoms. The aim of breast screening test for early breast cancer detection is to find out or detect if there is any atom of cancer before it starts causing any symptoms.

Self examination and physical examination of the breast is also another way to detect breast cancer earlier and constant checking will help to detect breast cancer earlier.

Most breast cancers that are detected is just because it can be felt tend to be larger and are more likely to have spread beyond the breast. In other hand, breast cancer that is been found during screening examinations is likely to be small, still confined to the breast and can be treated.

More women are surviving this deadly disease called breast cancer just because of routine screening and early detection and improved treatments. Breast cancer does not have any outward signs which can be seen or feel. If there is an outward sign, the more common ones should include: a dimple in the breast or a lump that is an area of thickening but the common signs include breast swelling and redness or an enlarged underarm lymph node.

If it happens that you have more of these signs, it does not mean that you have breast cancer. Have in mind that most breast lumps turn out to be benign and not cancerous but it is important for you to see your doctor immediately to avoid unnecessary worry that might have breast cancer. For your doctor examine you will ease some if not all your worry, and if anything is found, you will be able to take care of it as soon as possible.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a cancer that affects the breast tissue. The primary victims of this type of cancer are females. Statistics show that approximately one out of 11 to 12 women of the Western world are affected by breast cancer. Medical researches have tried aggressively to find a solution to detect the problem earlier or to treat the problem. About 20 percent of the women affected by breast cancer still fall prey to it and eventually die. In fact, breast cancer ranks second in cancer deaths for women.

Most breast cancer starts in the cells that line up the ducts. There are occasions where the cancer cells originate from the lobules, and then spread to other tissues.

Many breast cancer diagnosis starts in the checking of lumps I the breast. Although most cases of lumps are benign, meaning they are not cancerous, but doctors often ask a patient to undergo biopsy to make sure that cells are not malignant. Most of the lumps are caused by cysts. These lumps may cause pain and swelling of the breast accompanied at times by clear or cloudy discharge in the nipple which happens before the menstrual cycle period is about to begin in a woman. The symptoms may lead to the person to seek a medical check-up.

Male Victims

Breast cancer is not limited to women though; male victims are present as well. The breast of both male and female have identical tissues, so a man is also prone to acquiring the cancer. It is believed that females are more prone to men because the breast of a woman constantly goes through growth changing hormones, thus the cells are more exposed to cancerous change.

Breast Cancer Awareness

As more and more people fall ill to breast cancer, the month of October has been deemed as breast cancer month, to commemorate those who passed away from the cancer, the family and friends survived by the deceased. A pink ribbon is the symbol that a person is joining in the commemoration.

Breast Cancer Survival Rate - Stage 1 Breast Cancer

With very early detection, the breast cancer survival rate is excellent. The American Cancer Society reports a 5-year survival rate of 98% to 100% for Stage 1 breast cancer after treatment.

Stage 1 breast cancer is less than 2 centimeters in diameter and has not spread beyond the breast tissue itself.

Currently, 63% of breast cancer for U. S. white women is detected and diagnosed while it is still localized to the breast tissue as Stage 1 breast cancer. Only 53% of breast cancer in U. S. black women is diagnosed while the breast cancer is still localized.

The difference in early detection rates between white women and black women is usually attributed to economic disparity and the lack of health insurance. It also helps explain the fact that in the U. S., breast cancer incidence for black women is 11% lower than for white women, but the breast cancer death rate for black women is 35% higher (NCI, SEER, 2007). The death rate increases when breast cancer detection and diagnosis are postponed while the cancer spreads.

The U.S. National Cancer Institute predicts that approximately 178,480 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in 2007. The annual death rate from breast cancer is around 41,000 in the U.S. North American white women have the highest rate of breast cancer in the world.

Improving breast cancer survival rates by early detection requires regular observation, monthly self-examinations, and following medical recommendations for examinations and testing.

Monthly self-examinations should be done at the same time each month. Clinical examinations by a health care provider should start by the time a woman is 20 years old and continue at least every three years until age 40. After age 40, the clinical exams should be included in the annual health check-ups. Annual mammograms after age 40 will help detect breast cancer at the earliest stages.

Since 1 in every 8 women will face a diagnosis of breast cancer in their lives, improving the breast cancer survival rate should also include breast cancer prevention by reducing risk factors. Some breast cancer risk factors like genetics and family history can’t be changed, but they account for only a small percentage of breast cancer cases. Factors that have shown an increase in breast cancer include overweight, hormone therapy, and increased alcohol consumption. Factors that may help breast cancer prevention include breast feeding, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular exercise.

Breast Cancer Symptoms And Diagnosis

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer diagnosed in women if the relatively less aggressive skin cancer is excluded from counting. Breast cancer accounts for about 32 percent of all cancer diagnosed in women.

Breast cancer is very uncommon in male. In families carrying the breast cancer associated genes, male members may be affected disproportionately compared to the general population. In the general population female to male breast cancer may occur at a rate of 1 to 100 (1:100 for male: female).

Prior to introduction of mammography screening breast cancer was often diagnosed as a large lump in the breast, because women were not paying attention to the development of breast tumors. Introduction of mammography had significantly changed the natural history breast caner. In industrialized nations like the United States breast caner is most commonly detected on mammography screening. Mammography screening also brought a great sense of awareness to women and this has resulted in earlier detection of breast cancer.

Even if a woman does not get mammography screening, they are very much aware of the risk of development of breast cancer and thus tend to observe and even examine their breasts. Most women do self-breast examination in between mammograms. Because of this increased awareness, women presenting with locally advanced breast cancer are quite rare in the industrialized nations.

In some women breast cancer may have spread to distant organs, before mammography screening or symptoms showed the breast cancer. This can happen because early stage breast cancer does not usually cause any symptoms. If the cancer has spread to other organs these women may present with symptoms related to these organs. For example if the cancer has spread to the bone the woman may develop bone pain or bone fracture.

Diagnosis of breast cancer involves a biopsy procedure. Most often an abnormality in the mammogram leads to a biopsy, many other times, the woman may have felt a lump in the breast or the physician examining the patient may have felt a lump in the breast.

Biopsy is the procedure by which a small part of the breast tissue is removed and examined under the microscope. A typical beast cancer would show classic features of breast cancer. Sometimes the abnormality may be a non-invasive breast cancer or so called carcinoma in situ.

Breast Cancer Survival Rate - Stage 2 Breast Cancer

The 5-year breast cancer survival rate for stage 2 breast cancer diagnosed in the U.S. varies according to size of the tumor and whether or not cancer has spread to the lymph nodes.

If the breast cancer is under 2 centimeters in diameter and has spread to the lymph nodes under the arm (the axillary lymph nodes), it is stage IIA breast cancer and the survival rate is 88%-92% (American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute).

If the breast cancer is between 2-5 centimeters but has not spread, it is also called stage IIA.

If the breast cancer is between 2-5 centimeters in diameter and has spread to the lymph nodes, it is called stage IIB breast cancer and the 5-year breast cancer survival rate is 76%-81%.

If the breast cancer is larger than 5 centimeters but has not spread beyond the breast, it is also called stage IIB

Up to 29% of diagnosed breast cancer is Stage 2 breast cancer for white women and 36% for black women. An average of 62% of all breast cancer is diagnosed when it is still localized to the breast area or Stage 1 breast cancer. If the cancer is detected early enough, such as Stage 1 breast cancer, then the 5-year breast cancer survival rate is as high as 98%-100%. Early detection is the most important way to save the lives of cancer patients.

Fortunately for breast cancer patients, there has been a great deal of effort put into providing information about early detection. Early detection and improved treatments are the primary reason for increasing breast cancer survival rates.

Women can help themselves with monthly self-examinations done at the same time every month. When a woman is 20 she should make sure that she gets a clinical examination at least every three years. After the age of 40, the clinical exams should be part of her annual health check-up, along with her mammogram.

Women can also help themselves with healthy habits that may help breast cancer prevention, such as regular moderate exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding excessive alcohol. These, and other healthy habits should be maintained for life since the risk of breast cancer increases with age.

There is also a 10% chance of breast cancer recurrence even after successful treatment. You can learn about three healthy habits that have shown a 50% decrease in breast cancer recurrence at http://www.green-tea-health-news.com/breast-cancer-recurrence.html.

For more information on scientific research showing dramatically increased breast cancer survival rate, see http://www.green-tea-health-news.com/breast-cancer-survival-rate.html.

Facts on Breast Cancer

Women of all ethnic backgrounds are afflicted by breast cancer. Last year, over 212.000 women in the U.S. were diagnosed with breast cancer. Each year, over 40,000 American women die of complications related to the disease.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK - the disease is diagnosed in 42,000 women every year.

The chance of a woman developing breast cancer increases as she gets older. The risk factors include age, family history, early periods, late menopause, hormonal factors, not having children, drinking too much, obesity and inactivity.

The risk of breast cancer is especially high for women age 60 and older. It is rare in women younger than age 35.

Many large studies have documented the benefit of mammography in the early detection of breast cancer. On average, mammograms will detect 80% to 90% asymptomatic breast cancer.

Women should have positive lifestyle choices in order to decrease the risk factors of breast cancer. Every woman should pay attention to the following factors:

- Decrease daily fat intake, limit red meat and eat leaner meats.

- Increase fiber in the daily diet. Eat more whole grains, fresh vegetables and fruits.

- Limit alcohol because there is evidence that women who have 2 or more drinks per day have a small increase in breast cancer risk.

- Be active. Include moderate amount of physical activity (for example taking a brisk, 30-minute walk) on most days of the week.

- Maintain the healthy body weight suggested by a health professional.

- Stop smoking. Although smoking does not cause breast cancer, other cancers may spread to the breast

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Businesses Supporting the Cause

Currently, the month of October is designated as the official National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM). For over two decades, NBCAM has successfully educated women of all ages about early detection, treatment, and diagnosis of breast cancer. Non-profit organizations such as Karmanos Cancer Institute, American Cancer Society, Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and the National Breast Cancer Foundation are devoted to raising money for breast cancer research and educating women (and men) about the disease, supporting those with breast cancer, and celebrating the individuals who have survived it.

Companies such as Macy’s and Target are inviting their consumers to join them in the fight against breast cancer. The “Pink Ribbon Items” are sold to help support breast cancer research. These companies have agreed to donate a portion of the proceeds to breast cancer charities. Most items related to breast cancer awareness can be identified with a pink label or a pink ribbon. Ford Motor Company has supported breast cancer research for over 10 years by donating money and selling pink silk scarves specifically for breast cancer charities. All businesses are invited to invest in unique corporate gifts that help support breast cancer research. There are corporate gifts available that are embellished with the breast cancer awareness “pink ribbon”. Some of the other gifts are manufactured in pink and can be personalized with a monogram. These breast cancer awareness business gifts range any where from heart-shaped luggage tags to pink leather totes.

Breast cancer awareness is not limited to woman only. Men are encouraged to support the cause as well. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, 1600 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. Even the most masculine man should rethink wearing pink when it comes to supporting a great cause.

Although, October is designated as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, supporting the cause can be a year-round commitment. Those who are unaffected by breast cancer should help join the fight against breast cancer for their loved ones. Whether you decide to participate in an American Cancer Society sponsored walk, donate money to breast cancer charities, or invest in business gifts that help support breast cancer research, you will certainly contribute to saving someone’s life.