Bladder is a hollow organ located in lower abdomen i.e. the pelvic region which stores urine coming from kidney. Bladder cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer; seen more in aged people. Men are said to be infected by this tumor more than women. Studies suggest that the ratio of men getting infected is 1:30 whereas for women the ratio is 1: 90.
Bladder cancer can be benign i.e. restricted to the inner most lining of the bladder or it can also be malignant i.e. spreading to the muscular portion of the bladder. Bladder cancer is said to spread through the lymph cells and blood to the other parts of the body, infecting everything. Bladder cancer can be categorized into three different categories: urothelial carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Urothelial carcinoma is the most common form of bladder cancer and nearly 90% of people suffering from bladder cancer have this form of cancer.
Causes: There are various factors leading to this type of cancer. First and foremost; it is caused with the growing age of a person. Secondly; people with excessive intake of fried meat and animal fat, in daily diet, have a great risk of suffering from this form of cancer. Smoking increases chances of bladder cancer. Then there are chemicals too responsible for bladder cancer.
People working in industries dealing with aromatic amines are common sufferers of this problem. Moreover individuals working in leather industry, dyes, textiles, rubber, hair coloring, and paint too are at a risk. There are others who under weight loss programme consume a Chinese herb known as "aristolochai fangchi" which is supposed to be causing bladder cancer.
There are other causes like when a person has been suffering from urinary infection for a long time then he too is prone to this tumor. Hereditary factors too can't be ignored.
Symptoms: bladder cancer does not have any unusual symptom. In fact the symptoms are very similar to any urinary tract infection. The most noticeable symptom is blood in urine. Then there are other things to watch out for like burning sensation while urinating, frequent urination, urge to urinate after every half an hour but the quantity of urine coming out is very less.
Though these symptoms are not very typical of bladder cancer but nevertheless one is expected to go to an urologist with any kind of bladder infection. However in bladder cancer the symptoms are not visible till in a later stage of infection. This proves to be very risky as it is a well known fact that any tumor at late stages is difficult to cure.
Once the presence of tumor has been established it is important to go for treatments like chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, biological therapy or immunotherapy as soon as possible. However the course of treatment is dependent on the type of tumor, age and health of the person .for bladder cancer it is a well known fact that it can reoccur at later stages. People who suffer from frequent urinary infections or who have a history of bladder cancer should go for regular screening to detect the cancer at early stages.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Breast cancer,do you understand?
What is breast cancer？
Breast cancer is an abnormal growth and sprawl of this tissue cells.
The breast is made up of a number of mammary glands, which produce milk after giving birth, and those who are called lobes and lobules.
The lobes are connected by pipes, ducts breast, which are the leading milk to the nipple, during lactation, to feed the baby. Glands (or lobes) and the ducts are involved in breast adipose tissue and connective tissue, which, along with the lymph tissue, forming the breast.
As a containment wall, serving the pectoral muscle that sits between the ribs and breast.
The skin covers and protects the entire structure breast.
The lymphatic system is made up of containers and vessels or pipes that contain lead and lymph, a colorless liquid made up of white blood cells, mostly lymphocytes. These cells recognize any foreign substance to the body and release substances that destroy the agent aggressor.
A GOOD MEDICINE
Arimidex is used alone or with other treatments such as surgery or radiation to treat: breast cancer in postmenopausal women (women who no longer have their menstrual periods). Arimidex belongs to a class of drugs called non-steroidal inhibitors of aromatase. It works by reducing the amount of estrogen in the body. This can slow or stop the growth of many types of cells that produce breast cancer and who need estrogen to grow.
Keep this medication in its container tightly closed and out of reach of children. Store at room temperature and away from excessive heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Discard any medicine that is expired or no longer used. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of medicines. Additional information Comply with all appointments with your doctor. Do not allow other people to use their medication. Ask the pharmacist any questions you have about how to renew the prescription. Arimidex can cause osteoporosis or worsen an existing osteoporosis. The disorder lowers the density of their bones and increase the prospects that will break or cracks. Talk to your doctor about the risks of taking this medication to determine what you can do to reduce those risks.
Breast cancer is an abnormal growth and sprawl of this tissue cells.
The breast is made up of a number of mammary glands, which produce milk after giving birth, and those who are called lobes and lobules.
The lobes are connected by pipes, ducts breast, which are the leading milk to the nipple, during lactation, to feed the baby. Glands (or lobes) and the ducts are involved in breast adipose tissue and connective tissue, which, along with the lymph tissue, forming the breast.
As a containment wall, serving the pectoral muscle that sits between the ribs and breast.
The skin covers and protects the entire structure breast.
The lymphatic system is made up of containers and vessels or pipes that contain lead and lymph, a colorless liquid made up of white blood cells, mostly lymphocytes. These cells recognize any foreign substance to the body and release substances that destroy the agent aggressor.
A GOOD MEDICINE
Arimidex is used alone or with other treatments such as surgery or radiation to treat: breast cancer in postmenopausal women (women who no longer have their menstrual periods). Arimidex belongs to a class of drugs called non-steroidal inhibitors of aromatase. It works by reducing the amount of estrogen in the body. This can slow or stop the growth of many types of cells that produce breast cancer and who need estrogen to grow.
Keep this medication in its container tightly closed and out of reach of children. Store at room temperature and away from excessive heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Discard any medicine that is expired or no longer used. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of medicines. Additional information Comply with all appointments with your doctor. Do not allow other people to use their medication. Ask the pharmacist any questions you have about how to renew the prescription. Arimidex can cause osteoporosis or worsen an existing osteoporosis. The disorder lowers the density of their bones and increase the prospects that will break or cracks. Talk to your doctor about the risks of taking this medication to determine what you can do to reduce those risks.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
You Need to Wear a Breast Cancer Bracelet
The only intention of pink breast cancer bracelets is to illustrate consideration to the problem of breast cancer and assist fund the pursuit for potential breast cancer treatments. Accordingly, if you possess an attention in breast cancer, you ought to own a pink breast cancer bracelet.
Red bracelets might illustrate support for HIV/AIDS investigation or bring up consciousness of heart illness. Orange bracelets frequently illustrate encouragement for numerous sclerosis (MS) examination or anti-smoking campaigns. The most well-liked yellow bracelet is the Livestrong wristband, which holds up cancer examination and supports survivors, but it might illustrate encouragement for troops as well. Green bracelets usually denote that the wearer maintains environmental reasons or muscular dystrophy examination. Blue could symbolize some reasons, including child mistreatment avoidance and hold up for prostate cancer examination. Purple bracelets could mean encouragement for examination into Alzheimer's disease, cystic fibrosis, fibromyalgia as well as lupus. Pink bracelets characteristically demonstrate encouragement for breast cancer examination. White bracelets frequently illustrate encouragement for peace or religious matters. Black bracelets might stand for bereavement, prisoners of war, gang avoidance, skin cancer examination or counter-culture movements.
One method to show your dedication for the cause is to have on a breast cancer bracelet. It demonstrates everybody that you mind and that you are a partaker in the battle to discover a treatment. At this moment you are considering regarding whether or not the bracelet will be a strange shadow of pink, complement your clothes, seem suitable for the office and be an enjoyment to be dressed in. Self-importance could move stealthily, but your preferences for a breast cancer bracelet are approximately limitless.
If you are vigorously concerned in the movement and are element of a group of ladies that have a meeting over and over again, you might wish for having a unusual bracelet that all of you dress in. This demonstrates your agreement and strength when it comes to wrestle opposed to breast cancer. People become aware of unusual jewelry and might still inquire concerning it. This will provide you a chance to inform them regarding the unusual noteworthy of it and why you hold up such a significant reason.
No matter what kind of breast cancer bracelet you prefer, it must be important for you. Perhaps you dress in it since you are a survivor of breast cancer or since you missing somebody near to you from this ailment.
The most well-liked breast cancer bracelets are an easy group of pink rubber that elongates to suit around any wrist. There is an inspiring point imprinted in every bracelet, for example "Share Beauty Spread Hope" or "I Will." They be inclined to be more well-liked with younger wearers, but anybody could take pleasure in them and their note.
As breast cancer bracelets take a number of shapes, they are unified in the objectives of exaltation those who have combated the disease and encouraging consciousness. Whether you wish for to inform the world that you've survived cancer or you now consider it's a significant subject to bear in mind and encouragement, breast cancer bracelets could suit the bill.
Red bracelets might illustrate support for HIV/AIDS investigation or bring up consciousness of heart illness. Orange bracelets frequently illustrate encouragement for numerous sclerosis (MS) examination or anti-smoking campaigns. The most well-liked yellow bracelet is the Livestrong wristband, which holds up cancer examination and supports survivors, but it might illustrate encouragement for troops as well. Green bracelets usually denote that the wearer maintains environmental reasons or muscular dystrophy examination. Blue could symbolize some reasons, including child mistreatment avoidance and hold up for prostate cancer examination. Purple bracelets could mean encouragement for examination into Alzheimer's disease, cystic fibrosis, fibromyalgia as well as lupus. Pink bracelets characteristically demonstrate encouragement for breast cancer examination. White bracelets frequently illustrate encouragement for peace or religious matters. Black bracelets might stand for bereavement, prisoners of war, gang avoidance, skin cancer examination or counter-culture movements.
One method to show your dedication for the cause is to have on a breast cancer bracelet. It demonstrates everybody that you mind and that you are a partaker in the battle to discover a treatment. At this moment you are considering regarding whether or not the bracelet will be a strange shadow of pink, complement your clothes, seem suitable for the office and be an enjoyment to be dressed in. Self-importance could move stealthily, but your preferences for a breast cancer bracelet are approximately limitless.
If you are vigorously concerned in the movement and are element of a group of ladies that have a meeting over and over again, you might wish for having a unusual bracelet that all of you dress in. This demonstrates your agreement and strength when it comes to wrestle opposed to breast cancer. People become aware of unusual jewelry and might still inquire concerning it. This will provide you a chance to inform them regarding the unusual noteworthy of it and why you hold up such a significant reason.
No matter what kind of breast cancer bracelet you prefer, it must be important for you. Perhaps you dress in it since you are a survivor of breast cancer or since you missing somebody near to you from this ailment.
The most well-liked breast cancer bracelets are an easy group of pink rubber that elongates to suit around any wrist. There is an inspiring point imprinted in every bracelet, for example "Share Beauty Spread Hope" or "I Will." They be inclined to be more well-liked with younger wearers, but anybody could take pleasure in them and their note.
As breast cancer bracelets take a number of shapes, they are unified in the objectives of exaltation those who have combated the disease and encouraging consciousness. Whether you wish for to inform the world that you've survived cancer or you now consider it's a significant subject to bear in mind and encouragement, breast cancer bracelets could suit the bill.
Spontaneous Breast Cancer Remission
Though many woman dread that yearly mammogram, we've all heard often enough that early detection of breast cancer saves lives... finding lumps when they're too small to feel and before they get a chance to grow and spread gives you the best chance for a cure.
Or does it?
A recent study of mammography screening for breast cancer found that some invasive cancers might spontaneously regress over time, leaving no sign that they were ever present in a woman's body.
This leaves us to question if breast cancer is over diagnosed, and therefore over treated.
The research, conducted by Norwegian scientists, used 119,472 female subjects aged 50 to 64 years, who underwent three rounds of mammography (one mammogram every two years) from 1996 to 2001 as part of the Norwegian Breast Cancer Screening Program.
The cancer rates in this group were compared with the cancer rates of 109,784 control subjects who would have been screened if the program existed back in 1992. The control subjects were invited to have a one-time mammogram at the end of the observation period.
The team had expected that no matter when they were detected, the number of breast cancer tumors would ultimately be the same between the regularly screened group and the never screened controls.
As the researchers expected, the 4-year cumulative incidence of invasive breast cancer in the screened group was higher than in the non-screened control group - 1268 vs. 810 cases per one thousand women.
However, the surprise finding of the research was that even after the one time mammography was given to the previously unscreened control group, the six year cumulative incidence of breast cancer in the mammography screened group was still higher - 1909 vs. 1564 cases per one thousand women.
The study authors couldn't explain this.
There were no obvious differences between the two groups, and since that all important cumulative incidence of cancer in the control group never reached, even after one time screening, the mammography screened group of subjects, it lends support to the idea that some cancers found on repeat scans wouldn't show up on a single scan at the end of six years.
The study authors note, "This raises the possibility that the natural course of some screen-detected invasive breast cancers is to spontaneously regress."
Perhaps as many as one in five cancers detected by mammogram might, in fact, spontaneously resolve.
And since two out of three breast cancer tumors are estrogen driven, the drop off of the hormone as women age and go through menopause suggests that cancer cells are naturally starved of the very hormone they need to grow and thrive.
The tumors might disappear altogether or shrink and lie dormant. The discontinuation of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as a treatment for menopausal symptoms and the dramatic decrease in breast cancer rates lends fuel to the idea that hormones may fuel the growth of some cancers.
While this study is absolutely not a recommendation to skip your yearly mammogram, it does raise an intriguing question about cancers that may resolve themselves... without our ever knowing or treating them.
"If the spontaneous remission hypothesis is credible, it could cause a major reevaluation in the approach to breast cancer research and treatment," says cancer expert Dr. Robert M. Kaplan of the University of California, Los Angeles, and Dr. Franz Porzsolt, from the University of Ulm, Germany in a related story that appeared with the study.
In effect, it could in the future lead to an approach that is already used for a well known cancer in men, prostate cancer, where a "Watchful Waiting" approach is sometimes advised.
Or does it?
A recent study of mammography screening for breast cancer found that some invasive cancers might spontaneously regress over time, leaving no sign that they were ever present in a woman's body.
This leaves us to question if breast cancer is over diagnosed, and therefore over treated.
The research, conducted by Norwegian scientists, used 119,472 female subjects aged 50 to 64 years, who underwent three rounds of mammography (one mammogram every two years) from 1996 to 2001 as part of the Norwegian Breast Cancer Screening Program.
The cancer rates in this group were compared with the cancer rates of 109,784 control subjects who would have been screened if the program existed back in 1992. The control subjects were invited to have a one-time mammogram at the end of the observation period.
The team had expected that no matter when they were detected, the number of breast cancer tumors would ultimately be the same between the regularly screened group and the never screened controls.
As the researchers expected, the 4-year cumulative incidence of invasive breast cancer in the screened group was higher than in the non-screened control group - 1268 vs. 810 cases per one thousand women.
However, the surprise finding of the research was that even after the one time mammography was given to the previously unscreened control group, the six year cumulative incidence of breast cancer in the mammography screened group was still higher - 1909 vs. 1564 cases per one thousand women.
The study authors couldn't explain this.
There were no obvious differences between the two groups, and since that all important cumulative incidence of cancer in the control group never reached, even after one time screening, the mammography screened group of subjects, it lends support to the idea that some cancers found on repeat scans wouldn't show up on a single scan at the end of six years.
The study authors note, "This raises the possibility that the natural course of some screen-detected invasive breast cancers is to spontaneously regress."
Perhaps as many as one in five cancers detected by mammogram might, in fact, spontaneously resolve.
And since two out of three breast cancer tumors are estrogen driven, the drop off of the hormone as women age and go through menopause suggests that cancer cells are naturally starved of the very hormone they need to grow and thrive.
The tumors might disappear altogether or shrink and lie dormant. The discontinuation of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as a treatment for menopausal symptoms and the dramatic decrease in breast cancer rates lends fuel to the idea that hormones may fuel the growth of some cancers.
While this study is absolutely not a recommendation to skip your yearly mammogram, it does raise an intriguing question about cancers that may resolve themselves... without our ever knowing or treating them.
"If the spontaneous remission hypothesis is credible, it could cause a major reevaluation in the approach to breast cancer research and treatment," says cancer expert Dr. Robert M. Kaplan of the University of California, Los Angeles, and Dr. Franz Porzsolt, from the University of Ulm, Germany in a related story that appeared with the study.
In effect, it could in the future lead to an approach that is already used for a well known cancer in men, prostate cancer, where a "Watchful Waiting" approach is sometimes advised.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Information to Cure Breast Cancer
If you can cure breast cancer through lifestyle changes, why is it we have those 3 awful treatments that are in place today for the problem? That is called "The Politics of Cancer". Breast cancer and all other cancers, when first diagnosed most definitely can be cured by a change in lifestyle but don't expect it to be endorsed by our mainstream medicine - there is no profit in it.
The causes of breast cancer are well known. There are many people who know these facts and if you've been diagnosed with the breast cancer it's this information you need. A hundred years ago breast cancer was a rare disease. Today it has become a major problem. The highest rates of breast cancer are in all the developed countries and it's rare in undeveloped countries, so it's not difficult to find the reason why it is occurring today.
The way to cure breast cancer through lifestyle changes are to remove the known causes and use the amazing self-healing powers of the body that we all possess. The human body possesses a superb system of natural defences against all diseases, including cancer. It will cure cancer naturally and permanently, so it won't spread or return. Remember, if the body is smart enough to create cancer, then it makes sense that it must be smart enough to cure it also.
Breast cancer is caused by the way we live with our high consumption of processed foods, most of which have a high proportion of fat, salt or refined sugar, all known contributing factors to cancer. Also processed foods are all old food and are nutritionally dead foods. Some other causative factors for breast cancer are diets high in animal products, the consumption of alcohol everyday and the use of hormone therapy.
Our sedentary lifestyle has a big influence on why there is so much breast cancer. The car is mostly responsible for our lack of exercise and then there is the television set which doesn't exactly encourage exercise either. These days we surround ourselves with labour saving devices, none of which helps the human body get the exercise it so badly needs. The reason we need exercise is that our immune system, which is our all important built-in repair system, needs muscular activity to allow it to function properly.
The chemicals we use on a daily basis also have an effect on why one get breast cancer and all these chemicals come from the petro-chemical industry. There are hundreds of them and the ones that have been suspected to cause breast cancer are the chemicals in antiperspirants, sunscreens, and hair dyes. While some of these chemicals have been tested for short term reaction, none have been tested for long term health problems like cancer.
Lastly stress in the form of emotional stress or unforgiving stress is known to bring on all cancers. If you've had a major disruption in your life like a death of a love one or financial crises seek the help from a guidance councillor.
By changing your lifestyle you are addressing the causes of breast cancer, not just the problem, which is the cancer growth. The reason one gets breast cancer has very little to do with the breasts, that's only where the problem is, and that is why the cancer returns with the treatments today, they haven't addressed the underlying cause; they've only removed the symptom of a problem.
Healing is quicker and more effective if a person takes central responsibility for their health and has an active involvement in the healing process. A change in lifestyle with the correct diet is your first line of defence.
Alan Wighton is an independent health researcher, having spent many years gaining knowledge, especially on the subject of cancer. If you've found this article helpful and want to learn more, go to my website where there is genuine facts and information that can help people overcome their struggle with cancer
The causes of breast cancer are well known. There are many people who know these facts and if you've been diagnosed with the breast cancer it's this information you need. A hundred years ago breast cancer was a rare disease. Today it has become a major problem. The highest rates of breast cancer are in all the developed countries and it's rare in undeveloped countries, so it's not difficult to find the reason why it is occurring today.
The way to cure breast cancer through lifestyle changes are to remove the known causes and use the amazing self-healing powers of the body that we all possess. The human body possesses a superb system of natural defences against all diseases, including cancer. It will cure cancer naturally and permanently, so it won't spread or return. Remember, if the body is smart enough to create cancer, then it makes sense that it must be smart enough to cure it also.
Breast cancer is caused by the way we live with our high consumption of processed foods, most of which have a high proportion of fat, salt or refined sugar, all known contributing factors to cancer. Also processed foods are all old food and are nutritionally dead foods. Some other causative factors for breast cancer are diets high in animal products, the consumption of alcohol everyday and the use of hormone therapy.
Our sedentary lifestyle has a big influence on why there is so much breast cancer. The car is mostly responsible for our lack of exercise and then there is the television set which doesn't exactly encourage exercise either. These days we surround ourselves with labour saving devices, none of which helps the human body get the exercise it so badly needs. The reason we need exercise is that our immune system, which is our all important built-in repair system, needs muscular activity to allow it to function properly.
The chemicals we use on a daily basis also have an effect on why one get breast cancer and all these chemicals come from the petro-chemical industry. There are hundreds of them and the ones that have been suspected to cause breast cancer are the chemicals in antiperspirants, sunscreens, and hair dyes. While some of these chemicals have been tested for short term reaction, none have been tested for long term health problems like cancer.
Lastly stress in the form of emotional stress or unforgiving stress is known to bring on all cancers. If you've had a major disruption in your life like a death of a love one or financial crises seek the help from a guidance councillor.
By changing your lifestyle you are addressing the causes of breast cancer, not just the problem, which is the cancer growth. The reason one gets breast cancer has very little to do with the breasts, that's only where the problem is, and that is why the cancer returns with the treatments today, they haven't addressed the underlying cause; they've only removed the symptom of a problem.
Healing is quicker and more effective if a person takes central responsibility for their health and has an active involvement in the healing process. A change in lifestyle with the correct diet is your first line of defence.
Alan Wighton is an independent health researcher, having spent many years gaining knowledge, especially on the subject of cancer. If you've found this article helpful and want to learn more, go to my website where there is genuine facts and information that can help people overcome their struggle with cancer
Digital Mammography For Breast Cancer of High Risk Women
Breast cancer isn't something women should take lightly. Leading health experts recommend women over the age of 40 to be screened for breast cancer every one to two years. Women at a higher risk for breast cancer, such as family history of breast cancer, shouldn't hesitate and schedule an appointment with a mammography viewer. These women are more likely to benefit from one than those at lower a risk.
The latest mammography viewer being used in offices across the country is digital mammography. This newer technology takes an x-ray image and stores it electronically on a computer through the use of RIS PACS. Digital mammography stores images on a PACS web viewer or simple PACS viewer, allows of altering of the image, and transmission much more efficiently. Another great thing about digital mammography workstation is the fact it doesn't use nearly as much radiation as traditional film mammography.
There have been a number of studies showing that a digital mammography viewer can be beneficial for not only women over 40 but also all women, especially those with dense breast tissue. It isn't too different from what you would be used to either. The positioning and compression of the breast are the same in both traditional film and a digital mammography workstation. It feels basically the same as getting a traditional film mammogram.
In this type of mammography workstation, there are two pictures taken of each breast are taken. During the first, the patient is faced toward the platform and the RIS PACS image is shot down at the breast. The second image is a side view and then repeated on the other breast. Some techniques include magnification mammography which allows an image to be zoomed in to a specific area of interest and then transferred to a PACS viewer to be analyzed later on.
There are no diagnostic tests necessary before a digital mammography viewer. Most doctors simply recommend monthly self-exams and yearly breast exams by your regular practitioner.
There are certain recommendations which you should think about prior to scheduling a mammogram:
• Schedule one when your breast tissue is least tender. This is typically one week after your period. • Women often report less discomfort if they cut out caffeinated beverages and take vitamin E for several weeks before the mammography viewer exam. • Inform the mammography workstation technician if you are pregnant, have breast implants, or are breastfeeding. Implants create problems on the PACS web viewer by making it more difficult to see all the necessary breast tissue.
Afterward, a radiologist will analyze the mammography viewer images and discuss them with you at the end of the appointment. Depending on the results, additional tests may be ordered.
Wayne Hemrick writes about the advent of future technology. RIS PACS and the DICOM standard, patient information can be shared electronically and near-instantaneously by digital imaging users using a host of modality, computer hardware and imaging software vendors.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Wayne_Hemrick
The latest mammography viewer being used in offices across the country is digital mammography. This newer technology takes an x-ray image and stores it electronically on a computer through the use of RIS PACS. Digital mammography stores images on a PACS web viewer or simple PACS viewer, allows of altering of the image, and transmission much more efficiently. Another great thing about digital mammography workstation is the fact it doesn't use nearly as much radiation as traditional film mammography.
There have been a number of studies showing that a digital mammography viewer can be beneficial for not only women over 40 but also all women, especially those with dense breast tissue. It isn't too different from what you would be used to either. The positioning and compression of the breast are the same in both traditional film and a digital mammography workstation. It feels basically the same as getting a traditional film mammogram.
In this type of mammography workstation, there are two pictures taken of each breast are taken. During the first, the patient is faced toward the platform and the RIS PACS image is shot down at the breast. The second image is a side view and then repeated on the other breast. Some techniques include magnification mammography which allows an image to be zoomed in to a specific area of interest and then transferred to a PACS viewer to be analyzed later on.
There are no diagnostic tests necessary before a digital mammography viewer. Most doctors simply recommend monthly self-exams and yearly breast exams by your regular practitioner.
There are certain recommendations which you should think about prior to scheduling a mammogram:
• Schedule one when your breast tissue is least tender. This is typically one week after your period. • Women often report less discomfort if they cut out caffeinated beverages and take vitamin E for several weeks before the mammography viewer exam. • Inform the mammography workstation technician if you are pregnant, have breast implants, or are breastfeeding. Implants create problems on the PACS web viewer by making it more difficult to see all the necessary breast tissue.
Afterward, a radiologist will analyze the mammography viewer images and discuss them with you at the end of the appointment. Depending on the results, additional tests may be ordered.
Wayne Hemrick writes about the advent of future technology. RIS PACS and the DICOM standard, patient information can be shared electronically and near-instantaneously by digital imaging users using a host of modality, computer hardware and imaging software vendors.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Wayne_Hemrick
Thursday, January 15, 2009
What Christina Applegate Knows About Breast Cancer
Times have changed. Back in the dark ages, not that many decades ago, breast cancer was a secret shame, and often a death sentence. Women hid the diagnosis, and were helpless victims of a medical system that hadn't spent a lot of time or money dealing with the disease. Having cancer was bad enough; the fact that it usually required the loss of one if not both of the woman's breasts, the most visible of her womanly attributes, was devastating to her self-esteem. Nowadays, breast cancer is a pink ribbon cause-a rallying point for women's health issues and the leading edge of women's rising consciousness about how they are treated by the medical profession and medical research.
Far from being ashamed of having breast cancer, celebrities have embraced the chance to raise public awareness about early detection and the fact that breast cancer is not necessarily life-threatening. Christina Applegate, the Emmy-nominated lead of the popular TV show Samantha Who? and alum of Married With Children, is one of a host of stars who appeared in the multi-network television special, "Stand Up To Cancer" to raise funds for cancer research. She knows from personal experience that detecting cancer early and undergoing treatment means that cancer is not a death sentence.
I know that cancer cannot only be cured, but can also be one of the most powerful wake-up calls you will ever receive in your life. It was in mine. I heard those awful words-"You have cancer"-when I was in my mid-twenties. It started me on a great adventure that dramatically changed the direction of my life. Cured of the cancer by what medical doctors would call a "miraculous" healing, I left my position as a corporate attorney and spent the next decades journeying and learning in the realm of shamans, sages, and healers.
But my healing went much further than merely releasing me from a physical disease. In the course of what I learned about consciousness and healing, I was also able to release the deep wounds to my soul from having been sexually abused by my father from a very young age.
Christina was only 36 years old when she heard the words no one wants to hear. Even though her mother had survived breast cancer twice, Christina said, "... you don't think it's gonna happen to me." Based on her family history and testing positive for the breast cancer gene, Christina went ahead with a double mastectomy despite being diagnosed with cancer in only one breast, followed by reconstructive surgery. "I'm going to have cute boobs 'til I'm 90," she joked.
She is also proud of being an inspiration to many. At the Emmy awards, Applegate said, "For me to have a voice and be the voice of a 30-something-year-old girl going through this and dispelling the misnomers that it's an older woman's disease is a big part of this for me... every day I get e-mails not even just from people I know, but from people I don't know who I've helped. And that to me is what I'm most grateful for."
Over 2.4 million women in the U.S. have survived breast cancer. The list of celebrities who have survived breast cancer is long, impressive in that these highly visible women chose to come forward rather than hide what was happening to them. It includes singer Melissa Etheridge, who performed on television while bald from chemotherapy; Edie Falco, who battled cancer while still acting on The Sopranos; activist Gloria Steinem, who has been cancer free since the 1980s; Charlie's Angel Kate Jackson survived two bouts, while Angel Jaclyn Smith was able to treat hers with a lumpectomy and radiation; Olivia Newton John; Suzanne Somers, who opted for alternative therapy and holistic medicine; journalist Linda Ellerbee; L.A. Law star Jill Eikenberry; Ann Jillian; Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, who returned to work six days after her mastectomy; Lynn Redgrave; Cokie Roberts; Shirley Temple Black. The list could go on.
The death rate from breast cancer has gone down 2.2 percent per year from 1990 to 2004. Part of that success is the fact that women have learned how to advocate on their own behalf. Gynecological oncologist Dr. Carolyn Runowicz, herself a breast cancer survivor and one-time president of the American Cancer Society, says, "In the old days, we used to be paternalistic, and tell patients what to do. Now we lay out all the choices for the patients." Patients need to know what type of tumor they have and how fast it's growing, and they have more time to plan out a treatment strategy than they think. The newest precise treatments put more power in the hands of women; they can read up on the latest research and challenge their doctors to help them find the most effective course of action.
While undergoing medical treatment is a major component in dealing with breast cancer, there are complimentary treatments that improve a woman's chances of truly healing-not only the disease itself, but the emotional and psychological issues that may have contributed to getting cancer in the first place.
One powerful tool to have in the Surviving Cancer tool bag is journal writing. I have always taught that expressing one's emotions-as honestly as possible-on the pages of a journal is a very healing and life-affirming practice. The Journal of Clinical Oncology published the results of a scientific study from the University of Kansas that showed writing during cancer treatment contributed to the healing process. You can write about the loss and devastation you feel, and about the incredible discoveries you make along the way about all aspects of yourself-the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual realms we all inhabit. You can write letters (which you never have to send) to anyone who has hurt you, or who you have hurt. You can even write directly to the cancer itself.
Write about how cancer has changed your thoughts and actions. Do you feel differently about aging, about love, about the bittersweet joys of everyday life? If you need help, there are some great books in which brave writers have taken their stories public. There's Art.Rage.Us: Art and Writing by Women with Breast Cancer with an introduction by Jill Eikenberry and an epilogue by Terry Tempest Williams; Becoming Whole: Writing Your Healing Story by Linda Joy Myers; Uplift: Secrets from the Sisterhood of Breast Cancer Survivors by Barbara Delinsky; Voices of Breast Cancer: The Healing Companion: Stories for Courage, Comfort and Strength by The Healing Project; and When Words Heal: Writing Through Cancer by Sharon A. Bray.
These days, you can also start a blog to share your story and find endless support online for your situation.
Every effort that you make to heal yourself on every level helps to heal the breast cancer. Dr. Deepak Chopra puts it this way in his DVD Return to Wholeness: Envisioning Your Recovery From Cancer , "Mainstream medicine scoffed at the inner healer-and still does-to cover its own ignorance. When I went to medical school 40 years ago, 'healer' was a dirty word because nobody really knew what the body's healing system was capable of. Now we are getting a glimpse, and the powers of self-healing appear to be immense. Yet until we know more, the role of healer falls upon each woman. You are the mystery of healing and also the solver of that mystery. In place of fear, you can acquire so much from the experience of cancer: courage, hope, self-awareness, power, and love for your body."
So take heart. As Christina Applegate knows, "Yes, it's hard. It sucks. But I'm not a victim." Her battle with cancer has helped her learn to seize the day-a "be here now" attitude we can all embrace.
Far from being ashamed of having breast cancer, celebrities have embraced the chance to raise public awareness about early detection and the fact that breast cancer is not necessarily life-threatening. Christina Applegate, the Emmy-nominated lead of the popular TV show Samantha Who? and alum of Married With Children, is one of a host of stars who appeared in the multi-network television special, "Stand Up To Cancer" to raise funds for cancer research. She knows from personal experience that detecting cancer early and undergoing treatment means that cancer is not a death sentence.
I know that cancer cannot only be cured, but can also be one of the most powerful wake-up calls you will ever receive in your life. It was in mine. I heard those awful words-"You have cancer"-when I was in my mid-twenties. It started me on a great adventure that dramatically changed the direction of my life. Cured of the cancer by what medical doctors would call a "miraculous" healing, I left my position as a corporate attorney and spent the next decades journeying and learning in the realm of shamans, sages, and healers.
But my healing went much further than merely releasing me from a physical disease. In the course of what I learned about consciousness and healing, I was also able to release the deep wounds to my soul from having been sexually abused by my father from a very young age.
Christina was only 36 years old when she heard the words no one wants to hear. Even though her mother had survived breast cancer twice, Christina said, "... you don't think it's gonna happen to me." Based on her family history and testing positive for the breast cancer gene, Christina went ahead with a double mastectomy despite being diagnosed with cancer in only one breast, followed by reconstructive surgery. "I'm going to have cute boobs 'til I'm 90," she joked.
She is also proud of being an inspiration to many. At the Emmy awards, Applegate said, "For me to have a voice and be the voice of a 30-something-year-old girl going through this and dispelling the misnomers that it's an older woman's disease is a big part of this for me... every day I get e-mails not even just from people I know, but from people I don't know who I've helped. And that to me is what I'm most grateful for."
Over 2.4 million women in the U.S. have survived breast cancer. The list of celebrities who have survived breast cancer is long, impressive in that these highly visible women chose to come forward rather than hide what was happening to them. It includes singer Melissa Etheridge, who performed on television while bald from chemotherapy; Edie Falco, who battled cancer while still acting on The Sopranos; activist Gloria Steinem, who has been cancer free since the 1980s; Charlie's Angel Kate Jackson survived two bouts, while Angel Jaclyn Smith was able to treat hers with a lumpectomy and radiation; Olivia Newton John; Suzanne Somers, who opted for alternative therapy and holistic medicine; journalist Linda Ellerbee; L.A. Law star Jill Eikenberry; Ann Jillian; Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, who returned to work six days after her mastectomy; Lynn Redgrave; Cokie Roberts; Shirley Temple Black. The list could go on.
The death rate from breast cancer has gone down 2.2 percent per year from 1990 to 2004. Part of that success is the fact that women have learned how to advocate on their own behalf. Gynecological oncologist Dr. Carolyn Runowicz, herself a breast cancer survivor and one-time president of the American Cancer Society, says, "In the old days, we used to be paternalistic, and tell patients what to do. Now we lay out all the choices for the patients." Patients need to know what type of tumor they have and how fast it's growing, and they have more time to plan out a treatment strategy than they think. The newest precise treatments put more power in the hands of women; they can read up on the latest research and challenge their doctors to help them find the most effective course of action.
While undergoing medical treatment is a major component in dealing with breast cancer, there are complimentary treatments that improve a woman's chances of truly healing-not only the disease itself, but the emotional and psychological issues that may have contributed to getting cancer in the first place.
One powerful tool to have in the Surviving Cancer tool bag is journal writing. I have always taught that expressing one's emotions-as honestly as possible-on the pages of a journal is a very healing and life-affirming practice. The Journal of Clinical Oncology published the results of a scientific study from the University of Kansas that showed writing during cancer treatment contributed to the healing process. You can write about the loss and devastation you feel, and about the incredible discoveries you make along the way about all aspects of yourself-the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual realms we all inhabit. You can write letters (which you never have to send) to anyone who has hurt you, or who you have hurt. You can even write directly to the cancer itself.
Write about how cancer has changed your thoughts and actions. Do you feel differently about aging, about love, about the bittersweet joys of everyday life? If you need help, there are some great books in which brave writers have taken their stories public. There's Art.Rage.Us: Art and Writing by Women with Breast Cancer with an introduction by Jill Eikenberry and an epilogue by Terry Tempest Williams; Becoming Whole: Writing Your Healing Story by Linda Joy Myers; Uplift: Secrets from the Sisterhood of Breast Cancer Survivors by Barbara Delinsky; Voices of Breast Cancer: The Healing Companion: Stories for Courage, Comfort and Strength by The Healing Project; and When Words Heal: Writing Through Cancer by Sharon A. Bray.
These days, you can also start a blog to share your story and find endless support online for your situation.
Every effort that you make to heal yourself on every level helps to heal the breast cancer. Dr. Deepak Chopra puts it this way in his DVD Return to Wholeness: Envisioning Your Recovery From Cancer , "Mainstream medicine scoffed at the inner healer-and still does-to cover its own ignorance. When I went to medical school 40 years ago, 'healer' was a dirty word because nobody really knew what the body's healing system was capable of. Now we are getting a glimpse, and the powers of self-healing appear to be immense. Yet until we know more, the role of healer falls upon each woman. You are the mystery of healing and also the solver of that mystery. In place of fear, you can acquire so much from the experience of cancer: courage, hope, self-awareness, power, and love for your body."
So take heart. As Christina Applegate knows, "Yes, it's hard. It sucks. But I'm not a victim." Her battle with cancer has helped her learn to seize the day-a "be here now" attitude we can all embrace.
Breast Cancer Worries
Breast cancer is a scary and frightening condition to have to face. There is no real way to avoid it and there is only a slight chance of reducing the risk of getting breast cancer later in life. Women are advised to go for regular checkups with the doctor for proper screenings and check their breast themselves. This means that if you do have the unfortunate chance of getting breast cancer you will have caught it early and your chances of survival are so much higher.
So, after you went to the screening you were called back for a follow up with the doctor, so what now? You went for your follow-up visit. The mass is malignant. Right now you may still be in shock, but soon this will turn to fear. If you found the lump yourself and have waited a week or longer to get any answers you are probably in a full-blown panic. There are so many questions. Where do you turn? Where do you run? Well, take a minute, take a breath, and do a little bit of research. It could save your life and maybe your breasts.
In the terror of this moment you probably want to run to the nearest oncologist for your prognosis. That's fine and good, time is of course of the essence when it comes to cancer treatment. But please, do not feel chained to the first doctor to whom you are referred. Your primary care physician will probably make an appointment for you and you should keep this appointment, but in the mean time sit down with your biopsy report and call someone who really cares.
There is nothing to say that your oncologist will not care about you. But, he may care more about the dollars he will make off of you than he does about whether your husband is a widower next year. Oncologists are the highest paid physicians in America, they get paid whether you live or die, and many (not all) only see billing cycles, not patients.
Support is one of the best things to help with breast cancer; a good and strong support network will keep you going when you feel there is no light at the end of the tunnel. Speak to your friends, form relationships with women who may be in the same place as you are now and find some hope. There is hope for lots of women who have breast cancer. Chances are that you will be one of the lucky women who get to keep their breasts or keep their life.
So, after you went to the screening you were called back for a follow up with the doctor, so what now? You went for your follow-up visit. The mass is malignant. Right now you may still be in shock, but soon this will turn to fear. If you found the lump yourself and have waited a week or longer to get any answers you are probably in a full-blown panic. There are so many questions. Where do you turn? Where do you run? Well, take a minute, take a breath, and do a little bit of research. It could save your life and maybe your breasts.
In the terror of this moment you probably want to run to the nearest oncologist for your prognosis. That's fine and good, time is of course of the essence when it comes to cancer treatment. But please, do not feel chained to the first doctor to whom you are referred. Your primary care physician will probably make an appointment for you and you should keep this appointment, but in the mean time sit down with your biopsy report and call someone who really cares.
There is nothing to say that your oncologist will not care about you. But, he may care more about the dollars he will make off of you than he does about whether your husband is a widower next year. Oncologists are the highest paid physicians in America, they get paid whether you live or die, and many (not all) only see billing cycles, not patients.
Support is one of the best things to help with breast cancer; a good and strong support network will keep you going when you feel there is no light at the end of the tunnel. Speak to your friends, form relationships with women who may be in the same place as you are now and find some hope. There is hope for lots of women who have breast cancer. Chances are that you will be one of the lucky women who get to keep their breasts or keep their life.
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