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Posts Tagged ‘types of cancer’

There has been something leading me into the direction of researching information on a possible link between microorganisms (bacteria and viruses) and their role in causing certain forms of cancer. Based on recent evidence linking microorganisms to not only diseases but to the possible causative agent of several types of cancer, I feel this article is credible for shedding light on this theory. Cancer kills millions of people every year and we need to find out as much information about this health problem as possible.

Unfortunately, it is fair to say that most healthcare physicians are either unaware of cancer microorganism research, ignore the findings or are resistant to the research on it. When certain diseases were initially identified as having a microbe as its cause, cancer didnt act like an infectious disease and therefore it was concluded that microbes werent the causative. There were a few scientists who later found pleomorphic(capable of assuming different shapes) bacteria; these bacteria were simply dismissed as contaminants or as microbes that had secondarily infected cancerous growths. Also, at this time there was no single or consistent type of microbe found and animals experimentally infected with cancer microbes did not develop cancer. Thus for decades before the rise of virology and molecular biology, and a time before the revelation of mycoplasma forms of bacteria, the medical society concluded that bacteria were not involved as a cause of cancer in any way. As a result, this conclusion has stained medical thought about cancer to this day.

It has taken the medical community many years to finally discover the fact that microbes could even cause disease. There was a 200 hundred-year period where physicians knew about microbes, but didnt realize that they could actually cause disease. In essence for two centuries the dogma was that those tiny microbes could not possibly be a threat to a grown person. Within the medical community once something becomes a dogma, it is very difficult to change medical thinking. Infectious bacteria can usually be recognized in disease because they can be seen microscopically in tissue sections from disease states. On occasion special staining of tissue sections is necessary to make microbes more visible and more easily identifiable. As a side note, in cancerous tissue, the cancer microbe is most easily viewed with an acid-fast tissue stain.

In this era of modern technology and medical breakthroughs, one would think that it would be impossible for disease experts to overlook disease-causing bacteria. An incident took place among legionnaires in Philadelphia in July 1976. This incident was a new and deadly lung disease that struck two hundred twenty-two people in which thirty-four died. The cause of this lung disease remained a medical mystery for well over 5 months. Bacterial infection was ruled out when all tests were reported as negative. One astute microbiologist finally discovered bacteria. Joe McDade at the Leprosy Branch of the CDC, was able to detect unusual bacteria in guinea pigs experimentally infected with lung tissue from the dead legionnaires. A further modification of bacterial culture methods finally allowed the isolation of causative bacteria, now known as Legionella pneumophila.

Another example of dogma-defying research is provided by recent studies proving that ( Helicobacter pylori ) are a common cause of stomach ulcers, which can eventually lead to stomach cancer and lymphoma. Just a few years back, stomach ulcers were thought to be due to stress, lifestyle, or improper diet, and it was not uncommon to send ulcer patients to psychiatrists for analysis. For over a hundred years, physicians refused to believe that bacteria could cause ulcers because they thought bacteria couldnt live in an acidic environment of the stomach. In the early eighties a researcher, who was unable to convince his colleagues that bacteria could cause ulcers and gastritis. He actually proved his case by drinking a culture of H. pylori. After he became ill and admitted himself to the hospital where these bacteria were found to be associated with gastric disease. These bacteria were found only with a special staining technique and they were indeed found in the stomach lining. The CDC now claims that H.pylori causes more than 90% of duodenal ulcers and 80% of gastric ulcers. As a result, around two-thirds of the worlds population is infected with these microbes. Upon further research gastric ulcers are the prerequisites to stomach cancers.

For some reason, the idea that a proposed cancer germ could have more than one form is a threat to doctors and some microbiologists. The cancer germ has been described as having a virus like and fungus like, as well as a mycoplasma like phase. Such a Life Cycle is deemed nonsense in a lot of the medical community. Several scientists studied the pleomorphic cancer microbe. The results of this research indicate that cancer microbes are best detected by special staining tissue testing. Microbiologists love to separate viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma, and fungi, as distinct entities. In fact there is interplay between all of them. Viruses can infect certain forms of bacteria, but scientists cannot understand how microbes can change into virus-like, mycoplasma-like and fungus like infectious agents. The cancer microbe is related to the bacteria that cause tuberculosis, it is helpful to compare the microbiology of cancer with what we know about the microbiology of mycobacteria and their production of various forms of clinical TB. Research has indicated that the same identical germs do not always cause TB.

As a result, there is no reason to expect all cancer-associated bacteria to be exactly the same germ. Furthermore, just as everyone who harbors H.pylori does not develop stomach ulcers, we should not expect all cancer microbes to produce cancer. Also it is not unreasonable to consider the fact that cancer microbes have the potential to produce disease states that are not considered cancer. Cancer microbes can be identified in various disease states. There are photomicrographs of cancer microbes in autoimmune diseases such as scleroderma, in AIDS related Kaposis sarcoma, in breast cancer, in lymphoma and Hodgkins disease, in a lung disease called interstitial pneumonitis, in sarcoidosis and even in skin cancer. Not everyone who becomes infected with TB germs develops clinical tuberculosis. Individuals can harbor the TB germ without ever becoming ill. The same is true for cancer microbes. Not everyone who carries these microbes develops cancer.

One researcher found the microbe to be ubliquitous, which means it is found various disease states and can also be found normally. The research also labeled the microbe a progenitor cryptocides, which means hidden killer. Most importantly, cancer microbes are significant because they can be identified in the cancerous tissue in various forms of cancer. Also a few of these microbes can be seen in normal tissue, but strikingly large numbers can be seen in the areas of the tumor. These same microbes can be found in pre-cancerous conditions, suggesting that these germs are present before the actual induction of cancer. Furthermore, when cancer is cured by radiation and chemotherapy, the microbe can still be found in the damaged, previously cancerous areas. One reason cancer cannot be cured is that we cannot stop the destruction caused by these hidden and unrecognized bacterial elements. The reason antibiotics dont work well in cancer is because the microbes (in the mycoplasma state) arent susceptible to antibiotics.

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Author: Eugene Williams
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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The chances of developing cancer increase as you age, so senior citizens are at especially high risk for developing the disease. Fortunately, the number of deaths due to cancer have been declining; survival rates for people with cancer are higher than ever.

Although many types of cancer exist, they all share a similar formation: cancer begins when certain cells become abnormal and replicate, causing a mass of tissue referred to as a “growth tumor.” Growth of such a tumor can harm nearby organs and tissues, and cancer cells may migrate to other parts of the body-in other words, they can metastasize.

Early diagnosis allows for more effective treatment, because of this it is important that senior citizens get regular checkups. Early treatment can shrink or get rid of a tumor while stopping growth and spreading. Early detection, including knowing the early symptoms of cancer, can make a significant difference in the effectiveness of treatment.

Symptoms

Since so many types of cancer exist, it has many different symptoms. Still, it is important that senior citizens and those who provide elder care be able to recognize symptoms. Some to take note of are the following:

• A lump or thickening in the body, commonly in the breast
• The formation of a new mole or a change to an already existing one
• A sore that never heals completely
• Feeling hoarse or having a persistent cough
• Changes in bowel movements or urination
• Discomfort after meals
• Difficulty swallowing
• Changes in weight without a clear reason
• Unusual bleeding or discharge
• Weakness or fatigue

These symptoms are not usually do to cancer itself; they may arise from non-cancerous (benign) tumors or other problems. You should see your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms or notice other changes in your personal health.

Cancer does not normally cause pain in its early stages, so do not wait for pain as an indication. If possible, seek help before that point, and make sure to get regular tests for early detection.

Screening

Because of the nature of cancer and its treatment, it is important to have regular tests to detect cancer long before you feel its effects. Being checked for cancer when you feel no symptoms is called “screening,” which may include a physical exam, lab tests, or other tests to check internal organs.

Your doctor may ask questions about your age, past medical problems, family history of medical problems, general health, and lifestyle before suggesting a screening test. It is a good idea to talk to your doctor about pros and cons of, as well as questions and concerns about each test before you agree to take it.

The following is a list of tests that screen for specific cancers in people over 50:

Breast cancer

• Clinical breast exam: In this test, a doctor or health care professional will check the breasts and underarms for lumps or other changes indicative of cancer. This type of cancer is more common in women, but men can also develop breast cancer.
• Mammogram: This is a special X-ray of the breast that is useful in identifying cancers that are too small to feel. Aging increases the likelihood of developing breast cancer, so women over 40 are encouraged to have a screening mammogram every 1 to 2 years.

Cervical cancer

• Pap test: A doctor gently scrapes cells from the cervix and vagina to be tested in a lab and identified as normal or abnormal. Women should have this kind of test at least once every 3 years. The cause of cervical cancer is the human papilloma virus, HPV, which can remain in the body for years.
• Pelvic exam: The uterus, vagina, ovaries, and rectum are examined to track changes in shape and size. The doctor uses a speculum to widen the vagina to allow access to the cervix and upper part of the vagina.

Colorectal cancer

• Fecal occult blood test: Stool samples are sent to a lab to determine whether it contains occult (hidden) blood, which can indicate cancer. Most cases of this type of cancer occur in senior citizens, so having this test every 1 to 2 years after the age of 50 is a good way to lower your chance of complications from colorectal cancer.
• Sigmoidoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a light is used to search the lower part of the colon and rectum for growths and abnormalities. This should be done once every 5 years.
• Colonoscopy: This is similar to a sigmoidoscopy, but it includes an examination of the entire colon and should be done once every 10 years.

Mouth and throat cancers

• Oral exams: Doctors and dentists use these to identify cancer early by examining the lips, tongue, mouth, and throat to note any abnormal changes. Make sure to have regular dentist appointments for early detection.

Prostate cancer

• Digital rectal exam: The doctor places a gloved finger into the rectum to feel the prostate through the rectal wall. Hard or lumpy areas may indicate cancer. This type of cancer is the most common type in American men, especially in senior citizens.
• Prostate specific antigen (PSA) test: This measures the amount of PSA in the blood. A high amount means that prostate cancer cells or other prostate problems are present.

Skin cancer

• Skin exams: These are routine skin exams that can lead to early detection of skin cancer-the most common type of cancer in America. A screening that indicates a change or growth does not necessarily mean that cancer is present; a diagnosis may require further testing. The only method of truly identifying skin cancer is a biopsy, which involves looking at a small piece of tissue from the abnormal area underneath a microscope to check for cancer cells. If tests confirm that the abnormalities contain cancer cells, you should talk to your doctor about treatment options as soon as possible.

Treatment

Many treatment options are available for people with cancer, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Biological therapy is becoming more common for certain types of cancer. Some types of biological therapy help the body use its natural defenses to kill cancerous cells, while others block processes that allow cancer cells to live and grow.

People with cancer often see a number of specialists, including a medical oncologist, who specializes in cancer treatment; a surgeon; a radiation oncologist, who specializes in radiation therapy; and others. Doctors may suggest using one treatment alone or a combination of treatments, depending on what type of cancer you have, where it is in the body, and the stage to which it has progressed. Your overall health will be considered in order to find the best treatment plan for you.

Research suggests that treatments used in younger adults are often safe and just as effective in older adults, so senior citizens are generally given the same treatment options that are offered to younger adults.

Getting a second opinion-asking a doctor to go over the diagnosis and suggested treatment plan given to you by a different doctor-may be a good idea, and some insurance companies even require a second opinion before covering the costs of treatment.

New treatments are often available for testing. If you have cancer and would like to participate in clinical trials of new treatments, talk to your doctor.

Prevention

Experts estimate that about two-thirds of cancers are caused by factors we can control, including the use of tobacco and what we eat and drink. Contact with dangerous substances like chemicals, metals, or pesticides can also increase your risk of developing cancer. Here are some ways to lower your risk of cancer:

• Refrain from using tobacco products. Tobacco-in cigarettes, chewing tobacco, and even from second-hand smoke-is known to cause cancer. Tobacco causes about a third of all deaths from cancer in the United States each year.
• Limit your exposure to sunlight. An excess of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, sunlamps, and tanning booths can lead to wrinkles, skin damage, and cancer.
• Maintain a healthy diet. Eat at least five servings of fruit and vegetables every day, limit fatty foods, and get enough fiber in your daily diet.
• Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight contributes to your risk of developing certain types of cancer, including cancers of the prostate, pancreas, uterus, ovary, and breast.
• Get plenty of exercise. Remaining active can lower your risk of developing breast and colon cancers, as well as other types of cancer.
• Limit alcohol use to a maximum of one or two drinks per day. Consuming more than that increases your risk of cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, and larynx. People who drink alcohol excessively and use tobacco are at an especially high risk for these cancers.
• Know and heed work and safety rules to avoid dangerous materials that could lead to cancer.

Author: David Crumrine
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Canada duty