OUR CANCER INFO™

New Treatment for Melanoma

2008-06-21T23:18:00.000-07:00

By Georgina Grant
Our Cancer Info

Scientists have long wondered why some skin cells developed into moles, and some skin cells develop into the deadly skin cancer, melanoma. Well, recently US researchers have theorized that this is due to a missing protein known as IGFBP7. This naturally secreted protein prevents cells from developing into melanoma, and this action holds promise to improve treatments for melanoma, the skin cancer most likely to be fatal unless caught in the early stages.

If not caught in the early stages, melanoma can be a particularly virulent form of cancer, spreading through the body with an efficiency that few tumors possess. It has recently been discovered that unlike many other cancers, melanoma is born with its metastatic engines fully revved. In other words, in melanoma, when the melanocytes--cells that protect the skin from sun damage by producing pigmentation--morph into cancer cells, they immediately reawaken a dormant cellular process that lets them travel swiftly throughout the body.

The most interesting and important fact is that IGFBP7 is part of our bodies natural defense against cancer, and in the case of melanoma, this protein appears to turn off. Recently a lab test on mice was performed on melanoma cells with a synthetic form of the protein, and the cancers actually stopped growing.

What that means is that IGFBP7 could be used as a targeted treatment, because the melanoma is sensitive to the protein. Melanoma, a less common but the most deadly skin cancer, kills close to 9,000 people in the United States alone.

The interesting fact is, that moles, also know as nevi, are harmless, are caused by an uncontrolled growth of melanoytes, as is melanoma. Studies have shown that a mutation in a gene called BRAF, causes cells to multiply abnormally in both melanoma and moles, and it was by studying BRAF that they discovered the protein IGFBP7 found the code that is responsible for this natural defense system. The interesting thing is that this protein is secreted, therefore it can affect the cells surrounding, unlike most proteins which only work inside of cells. It appears to communicate to the surrounding cells to ignore the BRAF mutations and tells them to either self destruct... or at least hibernate.

IGFBP7 is also sited as a potential tumor suppressor for breast cancers, lung cancers, and prostate cancers.

Georgina Grant has written many articles on Skin Cancer, and has first hand knowledge of this preventable, deadly disease that attacks over one million people in the US a year. Read many more signs of skin cancer articles at: http://www.signsofskincancer.tdick.com and her blog at http://signs-of-skin-cancer.blogspot.com/

Our Cancer Info

Types of Melanoma

2008-06-21T23:17:00.000-07:00

By Max Bellamy
Our Cancer Info

Melanoma is a malignant tumor, formed in melanocytes, the cells responsible for generating melanin. Due to this reason, melanoma often acquires a brown or black color. In the United States, melanoma is the eighth most common malignancy. Melanoma is categorized as insitu and invasive melanoma. In Latin, 'insitu' means localized. It occupies only the top layer of the skin. The invasive melanomas are more serious and difficult to cure. They go deeper into the skin.

Melanomas are divided into four groups. The first three start as insitu and later become invasive. The fourth form of melanoma is invasive from the beginning.

The most common type of melanoma is superficial spreading melanoma. The maximum number of cases reported, are cases of superficial spreading melanoma. It occupies the top layer of the skin for a long time before becoming invasive.

Lentigo maligna is an invasive form of melonama. It affects the top layer of the skin for a long time before going deeper. It mainly affects the older age group. Due to a constantly exposure to the sun, this condition occurs in the ears, arms and upper trunk.

Acral lentiginous melanoma is the third form of melanoma. It is found in people with darker skin. It is more common among Asians and African-Americans. It also spreads along the top layer of skin before turning invasive.

Nodular melanoma is the fourth type of melanoma. It is the most aggressive form of melanoma. At the time of its diagnosis, it is invasive. The most frequently affected areas are arms, legs, trunk and the scalp, especially in older people.

In some families, people have strange-looking moles that may show signs of cancer. It is essential for such people to have regular check-ups to detect the cancerous cells in time and increase the chances of healing.

Melanoma provides detailed information on Melanoma, Malignant Melanoma, Melanoma Cancer, Nodular Melanoma and more. Melanoma is affiliated with Ozone Generator.

Our Cancer Info

What is Melanoma?

2008-06-21T23:14:00.000-07:00

By Max Bellamy
Our Cancer Info

Melanoma is a skin disease. Cancerous cells are produced in the melanocytes, cells that are responsible for skin color. Melanocytes, in the skin, are also found in other parts of the body, like the eyes. A majority of documented melanoma infection originates in the skin. It is a skin cancer. Melanoma is also known as malignant melanoma or cutaneous melanoma. It is curable, but an early diagnosis and treatment is very important.

According to scientific research on melanoma, an exposure to ultraviolet radiation is a major cause. Dermatologists often debate on the association of sunlight with melanoma. They believe that occasional exposure to extreme sun cannot be related to melanoma. Melanoma is commonly found in black men.

Other than the U.V. rays of the sun the other causes of this cancer are mutations or the total loss of tumor suppressing genes. Melanoma is also caused by the regular use of sun beds. These beds are known to permit deep penetration of UV rays.

Doctors diagnose melanoma by examining suspicious moles, irregular in color or shape. After a visual examination, a dermatoscopic examination is conducted. It helps to illuminate the moles, revealing the underlying pigment and vascular network structure. This helps to confirm the presence of melanoma. It is advisable for the diagnosis to be performed by an experienced specialist. The early stages melonama look identical to harmless moles.

The treatment of melanoma is also performed within a multidisciplinary approach. This includes medication and radiation. The opinion of surgical oncologists, general surgeons, neurologists and neurosurgeons is also helpful. The medication or chemotherapy for superficial melanomas, such as lentigo maligna melanoma, involves the use of imiquimod topical cream. It is an immune enhancing agent.

It is important for individuals, with family members diagnosed with melanoma to get themselves checked regularly for skin cancer.

Melanoma provides detailed information on Melanoma, Malignant Melanoma, Melanoma Cancer, Nodular Melanoma and more. Melanoma is affiliated with Ozone Generator.

Our Cancer Info

Melanoma Cancer

2008-06-21T23:12:00.000-07:00

By Max Bellamy
Our Cancer Info

Melanoma is a skin disease where cancerous cells grow in the melanocytes, the cells that generate skin color. Melanoma is either known as malignant melanoma or cutaneous melanoma.

Of all types of skin cancer plaguing mankind, melanoma is considered the most serious. The epidermis, or the topmost layer of the skin, contains three types of cells liable to become cancerous. Those are squamous cells, basal cells and melanocytes. Squamous cell cancer and basal cell cancer are known as non-melanoma skin cancers. They are more widespread than melanoma. Melanoma, which is relatively less common than the other two, is indubitably more serious and complicated to treat than either squamous cell cancer or basal cell cancer.

Though it is normally found in adults, melanoma can be sporadically spotted in children and young people. The cancer generally grows in an already existing mole or a new mole that appears on the skin. Men commonly get melanomas on the area between the hips and the shoulders, the neck or the head. Women, on the other hand, contract the disease mostly on the arms of the legs. In exceptional cases, it can grow in body parts that are not covered by the skin, such as mouth, eyes, large intestines or vagina.

Melanoma can be cured if diagnosed early. Unlike other types of skin cancer, however, it can rapidly reach other parts of the body through the lymph system or the blood. Melanoma is responsible for about 80% of deaths occurring from skin cancer, although it constitutes less than 5% of all skin cancer cases. In the United States, the reported number of melanoma cases is growing alarmingly.

Melanoma provides detailed information on Melanoma, Malignant Melanoma, Melanoma Cancer, Nodular Melanoma and more. Melanoma is affiliated with Ozone Generator.

Our Cancer Info

Breast Cancer

2008-05-30T23:40:00.000-07:00

Here are some well known facts about breast cancer. It is highly likely that your doctor is only aware of a few of these facts.

* The causes of breast cancer and all cancers are well known and have been well known for decades.

* Breast cancer can appear at anytime from your mid 20s onwards.

* Breast cancer is now appearing in countries where once it was unheard of.The more developed the country, the more likely one will contract the disease.

* Nobody has ever died of primary breast cancer, it's metastasise cancer, cancer which has shifted, that kills.

* By the time breast cancer is detected, whether by self examination or mammography, it is well established.

* 90 percent of breast cancers are found by the women themselves.

* Mammograms have 20 to 30 percent of false positives and false negatives.

* There is no safe level of radiation as is used in mammograms, the effects are cumulative.

* A safer and better way to detect cancer growths in the breasts are with thermography. It uses no radiation, only a heat detecting camera.

* Our mainstream medical system doesn't have a cure for breast cancer, only treatments.

* Breast cancer awareness month in October has done nothing to bring the cancer rate down, facts that we are all aware of. It has also been called breast cancer recruitment month.

* Breast cancer is classed in stages, 1 to 4. (4 being the worst)

* Removing the cancerous lump in the breast only addresses the problem, not the cause of the problem. (That's why the cancer returns)

* Radical mastectomies do not address why you got breast cancer in the first place.

* Having a double mastectomy as a preventative measure may stop breast cancer but does nothing for all other cancers.

* DCIS which is Ductal Carcinoma in Situ is a very mild form of breast cancer; it is classed as stage 0. (It certainly doesn't require radical treatment)

* The drug tamoxifen has demonstrated its ability to prevent the recurrence of breast cancer but a fact that is well know is that it can promote aggressive liver and uterine cancer.

* Herceptin has been heralded as a miracle drug for breast cancer but has been described by the well know cancer expert Dr Ralph W Moss as practically worthless. (Check out his website)

* All cancers are only one similar disease, but found in over 100 locations. (The causes are nearly all the same)

Facts that are well known to have caused breast cancer are a diet high in animal fat, salt and refined sugar, having been on the contraception pill for many years, the regular consumption of alcohol, our sedentary lifestyle (i.e. not exercising) and the use of chemicals, especially underarm antiperspirants, sunscreens and hair dyes.

Facts that prevent and stop breast cancer are a healthy diet of fresh fruit and vegetables, vitamin D, exercise and removing the known factors that have caused it.

Alan Wighton, owner of http://www.cancerhealed.com author of "Cancer, its Causes and its Cure" which has been written expressly with known Cancer Facts & Information for people with cancer.

Brain Cancer

2008-05-30T23:37:00.000-07:00

Brain cancer is a disease of the brain where cancer cells (malignant) grow in the brain tissue. Cancer cells grow to form a mass of cancer tissue (tumor) that interferes with brain tissue functions such as muscle control, sensation, memory, and other normal body functions. Tumors composed of cancer cells are called malignant tumors, and those composed of noncancerous cells are called benign tumors. Cancer cells that develop from brain tissue are called primary brain tumors. Statistics suggest that brain cancer is not rare and is likely to develop in about 20,000 people per year.

There are two main types of brain cancer. Primary brain cancer starts in the brain. Metastatic brain cancer starts somewhere else in the body and moves to the brain. Brain tumors can be benign, with no cancer cells, or malignant, with cancer cells that grow quickly.

Primary brain cancer rarely spreads beyond the central nervous system, and death results from uncontrolled tumor growth within the limited space of the skull. Metastatic brain cancer indicates advanced disease and has a poor prognosis.

Metastatic brain tumors are made of cancerous cells from a tumor elsewhere in the body. The cells spread to the brain from another tumor in a process called metastasis. About 25% of tumors elsewhere in the body metastasize to the brain.

Symptoms of Brain Cancer

Brain tumors can damage vital neurological pathways and invade and compress brain tissue. Symptoms usually develop over time and their characteristics depend on the location and size of the tumor.

Cancers are typically painless at first. As they grow, the first symptom is often a mild discomfort, which may steadily worsen into increasingly severe pain as the cancer enlarges. The pain may result from the cancer compressing or eroding into nerves or other structures.

The symptoms are caused by the tumor pressing on or encroaching on other parts of your brain and keeping them from functioning normally.

A sign is also an indication that something is not right in the body. But signs are defined as things that can be seen by a doctor, nurse, or other health care professional. Fever, rapid breathing rate, and abnormal breathing sounds heard through a stethoscope may be signs of pneumonia.

As the skull is made of bone, there is a fixed amount of space for the brain to take up. The growing tumor increases the pressure inside this fixed space. This is called 'raised intracranial pressure'.

Motion sickness is a very common disturbance of the inner ear that is caused by repeated motion such as from the swell of the sea, the movement of a car, the motion of a plane in turbulent air, etc. In the inner ear (which is also called the labyrinth), motion sickness affects the sense of balance and equilibrium and, hence, the sense of spatial orientation.

Brain tumors can often present different symptoms depending on the location of the tumor. There are general brain tumor symptoms that need to be checked out by a doctor if they are experienced.

Fits are one of the commonest symptoms of brain tumors. About 1 in 4 people with a brain tumor first go to their doctor because they have had a fit. A fit can just be jerking or twitching of a hand, arm or leg.

At the late stages of the disorder, dramatic changes in blood pressure may occur. Seizures are a common symptom of benign brain tumors and slow-growing cancers. Tumors can cause a part of the body to weaken or feel paralyzed. Hearing, sight and the sense of smell can be affected.

Blood Cancer - Blood is a part of the body

2008-05-30T23:34:00.000-07:00

Blood is a part of the body. Blood has different components sch as red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets and plasma. The red blood cells (RBC), platelets also called monocytes because it is belong to the "myeloid" group and other white blood cells belong to the "lymphoid" group. Lymphoid cells are affected. Disease progresses quickly. This is most common among children. Blood cancer or Leukemia is actually a group of diseases, each of which impede with the normal functioning of blood cells and progressively weaken the system. Leukemia is classified as either Acute or Chronic. Blood and urine samples may also be tested for various substances, called tumor markers, which may indicate cancer.

Causes

A weakened immune system - this may be a result of drugs that suppress the immune system (such as those used for organ transplants), high doses of radiation (such as in radiotherapy for another cancer), or diseases that affect the immune system (such as HIV).

Contact with a chemical called benzene, one of the chemicals in petrol and a solvent used in the rubber and plastics industry.

Genetic disorders like Fanconi anemia, Schwachman-Diamond syndrome and Down syndrome.

Treatment

In radio immunotherapy, an immunotoxin--a hybrid molecule formed by coupling an antibody molecule to a toxin--is injected into the patient. The antibody locks onto a signature protein the cancerous cells express and delivers the toxic dose to the cancer cells. Because the treatment is precision-guided, adverse effects to the rest of the body are minimized. Preliminary results with the new drug are extremely promising--completely eradicating the human cancer cells grafted to mice.

Your doctor may prescribe medications, sometimes called "growth factors," that encourage your body to produce more blood cells. Medications are also used to prevent low blood cell counts in people who have a high probability of experiencing complications of cancer treatment. Medications have benefits and risks, so talk to your doctor about the possible side effects of drugs used to boost blood cell counts.

Most people feel confused and overwhelmed when they are told they have leukaemia. It's a very distressing time both for them and their families. An important part of cancer treatment is learning how to talk about how you are feeling, and getting support with the physical and emotional symptoms you are experiencing.

For more advanced cancer, you can receive extra support, known as palliative care. Doctors and nurses based in hospitals, hospices and pain clinics specialize in providing the support you need, and can also visit you at home.

Many everyday activities put you at risk of cuts and scrapes. A low platelet count makes even minor abrasions serious. A low white blood cell count can turn a small cut into a starting point for a serious infection. Use an electric shaver rather than a razor to avoid nicks. Ask someone else to cut up food in the kitchen. Be gentle when brushing your teeth and blowing your nose.

Biological therapy uses special immune system cells and proteins to stimulate the body's immune system to kill cancer cells. Biological agents such as interferons, interleukins, monoclonal antibodies, tumor necrosis factors and colony-stimulating factors are natural substances found in the body that help alter the way the immune system reacts to cancer. Researchers are now able to create reproductions of some of these biological agents in laboratories, imitating the natural immune agents. These agents are used to augment the anti-tumor immune response of the patient.

Lung Cancer - Smoke That Cigarette!

2008-05-30T23:32:00.000-07:00

Introduction

Lung cancer is a disease of uncontrolled cell growth in tissues of the lung. It is one of the most common cancers in the United States, accounting for about 15 percent of all cases, or 170,000 new cases each year. It is also the worst cancer killer in America, taking more lives each year than breast, prostate and colorectal cancers combined, according to the American Cancer Society. It is the leading cause of cancer deaths in US women and is responsible for as many deaths as breast and all gynecological cancers combined.

Smoking

Smoking, radon, and second hand smoke are the leading causes. Smoking causes an estimated 160,000* deaths in the US. Smoking leads to 85 percent to 90 percent of all lung cancers. Smoking affects non-smokers by exposing them to second hand smoke. If a person stops smoking, this chance steadily decreases as damage to the lungs is repaired and contaminant particles are gradually removed.

Radon

Radon is a colorless and odorless gas generated by the breakdown of radioactive radium, which in turn is the decay product of uranium, found in the earth's crust. Radon is the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, according to EPA estimates. Radon causes between 15,000 and 22,000 deaths each year in the United States -- 12 percent of all lung cancer deaths are linked to radon.

Risk

Risk factors include the following: Smoking cigarettes or cigars, now or in the past. Not all cases are due to smoking, but the role of passive smoking is increasingly being recognized as a risk factor, leading to policy interventions to decrease undesired exposure of non-smokers to others' tobacco smoke. A smoker who is also exposed to radon has a much higher risk. The more cigarettes you smoke per day and the earlier you started smoking, the greater your risk of lung cancer. High levels of pollution, radiation and asbestos exposure may also increase risk.

Symptoms

Symptoms include: Chronic cough, Hoarseness, Coughing up blood, Weight loss & loss of appetite, Shortness of breath, Fever without a known reason, Wheezing, Repeated bouts of bronchitis or pneumonia and Chest pain. About 10% of people do not have symptoms at diagnosis; these cancers are incidentally found on routine chest x-rays. In fact, lung cancer can spread outside the lungs without causing any symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cancer's specific cell type, how far it has spread, and the patient's performance status. It also depends on the stage, or how advanced it is. Treatment choices can be discussed with a doctor. It may include chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. In recent years, various molecular targeted therapies have been developed as treatments.

Conclusion

Lung cancer is the second most commonly occurring form of cancer in most western countries, and it is the leading cancer-related cause of death. It is the most common cause of cancer deaths in both men and women, accounting for nearly a third of cancer deaths annually in the United States. It has become the subject of a great amount of research. Although the rate of men dying from it is declining in western countries, it is actually increasing for women due to the increased takeup of smoking by this group. We already know that the best way to prevent it is to quit (or never start) smoking. Three to five years after quitting, the risk of getting the disease is reduced by half.

Richard H. Ealom is the Author of this article and the creator of "Free Articles On Diseases: How To Prevent and Cure Them". 93 Disease specific websites with extensive information on Alternative and Orthodox methods and products to increase your understanding of Treatment and Curing diseases. Please visit http://rainydrops.com/a-lung-cancer/lung-cancer.php

What is Mesothelioma ?

2008-05-28T08:25:00.000-07:00

By Kristy Haugen

Mesothelioma can either be malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous) in nature. Mesothelioma affects the mesothelium, hence mesothelioma. What is the mesothelium?

The mesothelium is a type of tissue lined with special cells referred to as mesothelial cells. The mesothelial cells typically line the abdominal cavity, heart cavity, chest cavity, and the outer surface of most internal organs. Each cavity has a specific name for the mesothelial covered cavity which is:

Peritoneum: abdominal cavity
Pleura: chest cavity
Pericardium: heart cavity

The mesothelium has a specific purpose in the body. The mesothelium produces a lubricating fluid that allows easy movement of the organs. The pleural mesothelium for example, allows the lungs to move easily with each breath that is taken. Without this, breathing would be a difficult and possibly painful process.

Many refer to malignant mesothelioma as simply, mesothelioma. There are three main types of malignant mesothelioma ranked from less likely to more commonly seen:

Sarcomatoid
Mixed/Biphasic
Epithelioid

Malignant mesothelioma more commonly begins in the chest cavity (pleural mesothelioma). Approximately 10-20% of the cases of malignant mesothelioma will begin in the abdominal cavity (peritoneal mesothelioma). Malignant mesothelioma rarely begins in the cavity surrounding the heart (pericardial mesothelioma).

Malignant Mesothelioma Statistics:

Mesothelioma is a very rare cancer estimated to affect 2,000-3,000 newly diagnosed cases annually in the U.S. The United States reported an increased rate of mesothelioma from 1970 to 1990, which has currently stabilized and possibly decreased. However, European countries continue to see an increase in the rate of mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is commonly seen in the ages 65 years and older but increases with age. Mesothelioma is 5 times more likely to affect men than women. Mesothelioma is more common in the Caucasian nationality than African American.

Mesothelioma is a very serious cancer. Symptoms commonly do not appear early which causes mesothelioma to be diagnosed at an advanced stage. For this reason, mesothelioma has a low survival rate that is about 1-2 years. However, cancer research is slowly changing this statistic. Learn more about what risk factors predispose you to mesothelioma.

Kristy is a mother and experienced nurse. She has a Bachelor in Biology and Chemistry and writes to inform individuals interested in health information.

The Symptoms of Mesothelioma.

2008-05-28T08:23:00.000-07:00

By William Johnston

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer which is being discovered more and more frequently in elderly men. The most common cause of mesothelioma is from asbestos exposure and affects the membrane of many of the most vital internal organs such as the lungs and heart. Mesothelioma is particularly hard to diagnose because it shows similar symptoms to many other more common diseases.

The most common form of mesothelioma is called pleural mesothelioma. This type of mesothelioma accounts for 75% of all mesothelioma cases. Pleural mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs and has symptoms such as chest pain, coughing, breathing and swallowing difficulties, shortness of breath, wheezing and weight loss. These symptoms apply to many less serious diseases but anyone with signs of these symptoms are strongly advised to consult their doctor as soon as possible.

A less common form of mesothelioma is peritoneal mesothelioma and this form of the cancer affects the abdomen. The tissue lining the abdomen is called the peritoneum and this is what is affected. Peritoneal mesothelioma accounts for 20% of all mesothelioma cases. The symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma are weight loss, abdominal pains, loss of appetite, weakness, nausea, and abdominal swelling. These symptoms become more and more severe as the cancer develops. To learn more about these symptoms go to http://www.1-mesothelioma.co.uk

Those who are exposed to asbestos or have been exposed have a risk of obtaining mesothelioma. It is important that mesothelioma is diagnosed in its early stages so that it can be treated quickly and aggressively. The earlier it is discovered, the more likely the treatment will be successful.

All the detailed information you need on the symptoms, treatment, risks, science and more about mesothelioma can be found at: http://www.1-mesothelioma.co.uk

Be sure to visit to learn more about this deadly cancer and how you can prevent it.

How to Diagnose Mesothelioma.

2008-05-28T08:20:00.000-07:00

By Abdul Mateen

Mesothelioma diagnosis is very important as far as an early treatment is considered. It helps with better pain management. Mesothelioma diagnosis is confusing as the symptoms mimic many lung infections

Don't sit there and keep guessing. Consult your physician.

Get Mesothelioma tests done.

An early initiation of treatment will help reduce the cancer pain considerably.

Valuable Imaging techniques used in Mesothelioma tests are X Ray, CT (Computerized tomography), MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and PET (Positive Electron Tomography)

Invasive procedures for Tissue and fluid samples are also done. Usually invasive procedures {which invade the body} are required to make a final confirmed Mesothelioma Diagnosis (Thoracoscopy, Peritoneoscopy and Biopsy)

Recently the first ever Blood test for Mesothelioma have been devised as reported by Pacific North-West Research Institute. This is based on the fact that Mesothelioma cells release tumor markers called SMR (Soluble mesothelin-related) proteins.

Two important questions you should answer before you go ahead with the Mesothelioma diagnosis are:

Have you been exposed to asbestos? (Although not all the Mesothelioma cases are direct results of asbestos exposure there is a strong association between the two.)

Do you experience Mesothelioma symptoms?

Tips

If you suspect that you have been exposed to asbestos then get Mesothelioma tests done at the earliest.

Warnings

Mis-Diagnosis and late diagnosis is a grave error in Mesothelioma as the treatment becomes difficult with late diagnosis.

Dr. Mateen M.D. shares his expert opinions and Information on the Deadly Cancer Mesothelioma on his site Mesothelioma Cancer Guide. Also visit our Lawyers section and Mesothelioma FAQs.

Meothelioma Risk Calculator.

2008-05-28T08:18:00.000-07:00

By Jennifer White

This is a unique risk calculator that has been specially devised keeping in mind the seriousness and the importance of mesothelioma cancer. This mesothelioma risk calculator has been designed after giving careful consideration to the necessary conditions measured against the circumstances that can cause mesothelioma.

The end result is an almost accurate mesothelioma risk calculator that collects all the relevant information that might have a hand in causing mesothelioma such as asbestos exposure, smoking and other genetic or environmental factors which plays an important part to become victim of asbestos which result in deadly cancer of mesothelioma or asbestosis disease.

After measured calculation, you get the result for your mesothelioma risk factors. Depending on the factors that you chose, your result will indicate if you have any chance of suffering from mesothelioma cancer or asbestos.

There are a large number of people who can benefit from this mesothelioma risk calculator. If you are afraid that you worked in a place where asbestos exposure could have taken place or if you wonder that they symptoms you are experiencing stem from mesothelioma, this is time for you to make use of this mesothelioma calculator and confirm your doubts.

Mesoblog.org mesothelioma risk calculator will tell you in clear terms if you are suffering from mesothelioma, if you are at risk of suffering from disease or if you have any chance at all of getting this malignant cancer. Calculate your mesothelioma risk for free.

Feel Free to check your risk of mesothelioma by taking this simple quiz at http://www.mesoblog.org/

Jennifer White is a professional Health Writer having expertise in the field of cancer especially mesothelioma and lung cancer. Checkout her medical information portal on mesothelioma cancer

California Mesothelioma Lawyer & Mesothelioma Attorney Facts

2008-05-28T08:16:00.000-07:00

By Todd Going

Mesothelioma is a devastating form of cancer, but also rather uncommon. This disease stems from the inhalation or ingestion of asbestos particles. These particles can pierce the lungs, intestines and even heart. Particularly these particles irate the mesothelium, a protective sack that secrets fluids allowing organs to move properly. In addition, the mesothelium can develop cancerous tumors which can essentially spread throughout the body. Most people diagnosed with mesothelioma only live for around five years after the condition develops.

Mesothelioma primarily affects three organs of the body. Affected areas include the lungs, the gastrointestinal tract and the heart. The most common form of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma. The second most common form of mesothelioma is peritoneal mesothelioma which destroys the stomach & intestines. The rarest form of mesothelioma is called pericardial mesothelioma, which attacks the membrane lubricates in the heart during circulation.

There is currently no cure for mesothelioma, but victims of this terrible disease still have many options available for support. In addition to support from family & friends, it is also important to get legal support. Mesothelioma victims have many legal options to explore and it is very important that you contact a qualified mesothelioma lawyer as soon as possible.

To learn more about California mesothelioma diagnosis, specifically Los Angeles mesothelioma and Orange County mesothelioma, please visit our website at http://www.san-diego-mesothelioma.com This article may be freely reprinted as long as this resource box is included and all links stay intact as hyperlinks.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Todd_Going

About Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma - The Rarest Cancer

2008-05-28T08:11:00.000-07:00

By Adia O'Hara

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer caused predominantly by excessive exposure to asbestos, the other causes as yet unknown . Mesothelium is a protective lining on the internal organs on which malignant cells form. In most cases, pleura, the outer lining of lungs and chest cavity are affected. Mesothelioma on the peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity) or the pericardium (the sac surrounding the heart) is also common.

Mesothelioma is categorized broadly as: epithelial, sarcomatoid and biphasic (i.e. combination of epithelial and sarcomatoid)

Sarcomatoid mesothelioma:

Sarcomatoid mesothelioma is the rarest form of mesothelioma cancer, affecting only 10-20% of patients. In this, cells transform as spindle-shaped pattern that overlap each other and occurs from support tissues such as cartilage, muscle, bone and fat. Localized mesothelioma is when the cancer is only on the membrane surface. In advanced stages, it spreads beyond the original membrane surface to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, lungs, chest wall, or abdominal organs.

Diagnosis of Sarcomatoid mesothelioma:

Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, usually diagnosed by extraction of affected tissue during biopsy, can be difficult because symptoms of mesothelioma are similar to those of other diseases. It also responds poorly to treatment, resulting in fatality within a year of diagnosis.

Symptoms of sarcomatoid mesothelioma:

Symptoms of mesothelioma can appear several decades after exposure to asbestos. The most common are pain due to fluid retention in the pleural area, cough and spinal swelling, weight loss and accumulation of fluid in abdominal cavity. Apart from these, blood clotting abnormality, anemia, and fever are common.

5 Myths About Protecting Yourself from Skin Cancer

2008-05-28T07:55:00.000-07:00

by: Emily Clark

Sara spends much of her summer near the beach. She lives in a mild climate and is very athletic. She loves to swim, bike and play games outdoors. Sara knows the dangers of the sun and so she opts for tanning salons to get her 'golden glow' while being sure to apply sunscreen every day before heading out.

Joseph lives in a cooler, northern climate. The summers can be very humid, but most of the year is mild or even below freezing during the harshest winter months. The beach has never been much of a draw for him and he spends most of his time doing indoor activities or at his job. Joseph doesn't worry about sunscreen and only had one sunburn that he can remember and that was when he was a child.

Which of these examples do you most associate yourself with? Did you know that Sara and Joseph are both at risk of developing skin cancer? We have all heard the warnings about the dangers of sun exposure. We know all about the importance of wearing sunscreen and hats. But are YOU protected from skin cancer? Consider these myths and facts:

MYTH ONE: Tanning Beds are Safer than the Sun

20 minutes of exposure in a tanning bed is roughly equivalent to four hours in the sun. Although sun beds use UVA rather than UVB rays, 'The Skin Cancer Answer' states that "UV-A penetrates more deeply into the skin than UV-B, can cause skin cancer, and may
suppress the immune system."

MYTH TWO: Wearing Sunscreen at the Beach is Protection

85 percent of UV rays can even make it through on cloudy days. That means you are equally at risk in the car, walking the dog or letting your children out to play at any time of year - even when you're not at the beach. Of course, you are usually less attired
at the beach and so covering up is recommended even when wearing sunscreen. Sunscreen also wears off with sweat and water and should always be applied every two hours or after getting wet.

MYTH THREE: Taking Care Of Your Skin Now Will Protect You

Sadly, skin cancer can take 20 or more years to develop. The Skin Cancer Foundation states that most people receive about 80 percent of their lifetime sun exposure before the age of 18. Just one blistering sunburn in childhood is estimated to double the risk of melanoma later in life. Taking better care now will reduce the risk, but not eliminate the damage already done.

MYTH FOUR: Having a Tan Means You're More Protected

Dark skinned individuals are less likely to develop cancer, but tanned skin is actually damaged skin. Repeated tanning injures the skin and increases the risk of skin cancer.

MYTH FIVE: You Can't get Burned on Overcast Days

Just because the sun is hidden by some cloud does not mean that you don't need protection from the harmful effects of the suns rays. So how do you plan to protect your family this year? Some suggestions are to limit exposure to the sun - especially for
infants. Examine your skin for early signs of damage. Use a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher and apply it at least 30 minutes before exposure and every two hours after that. Teach your children good safety habits and be sure you and they are covered up when outdoors. Have fun and be safe.

The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to medically diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Consult a health care practitioner before beginning any health care program.

About the author:
Emily Clark is editor at Lifestyle Health News and Medical Health News where you can find the most up-to-date advice and information on many medical, health and lifestyle topics.

Asbestos Cancer.

2008-05-28T07:30:00.000-07:00

By Jason Gluckman

Asbestos, a naturally occurring complex silicate, was extensively used in many industries, including insulation in ship building, manufacture of brake linings, and automobiles. Asbestos is a common name given to a group of six fibrous minerals which have their existence in two general forms, friable and non-friable. The toxic effects induced by Asbestos inhalation include
desquamating alveolitis, bronchiolitis, and pulmonary fibrosis. Other more serious health ailments caused by Asbestos exposure include pleural effusion, pleural plaques, pleural calcification, and Asbestos Cancer (mesothelioma).

Asbestos Cancer, a serious health problem associated with Asbestos exposure, starts when cells found in mesothelium (a protective lining that covers most of the internal organs of the body) becomes abnormal and divide without control or order. These cancer cells may spread to damage tissues and organs. The diagnosis of Asbestos Cancer is difficult with pleural cytology. The characteristic radiographic feature of the disease is massive pleural effusion.

The disease is almost three times more common in males as compared to females. The maximum number of Asbestos Cancer cases is reported in the age group of 40 -60 years. The most common symptoms observed during the onset of Asbestos Cancer include asthenia, breathlessness, and dull chest pain. Other less frequent symptoms include cough, fever, and loss of weight. Haemoptysis is a symptom of Asbestos Cancer which is rarely observed.

The therapeutic (chemotherapy or immunotherapy) means are mostly unable to help significantly in the treatment. Even radiotherapy and pleurectomy fail as effective treatment options. The average patient’s survival after the diagnosis of Asbestos Cancer is 8 to 10 months. The most preferable option can be of preventive treatment for Asbestos Cancer. Strict industrial safety measures, proper hygiene, and regular check up of workers exposed to Asbestos must form the crucial part of serious Asbestos Cancer preventive treatment methods.

Asbestos Lung Cancer.

2008-05-28T07:29:00.000-07:00

By Steve Valentino

People with a history of asbestos exposure are about seven times more likely to die from lung cancer than those who are unexposed to asbestos. Asbestos exposure is associated with all types of lung cancer, and with a rare type of cancer called malignant mesothelioma, which affects the tissue lining the lungs called the pleura. The time between exposure and development of cancer ranges from 15 to 30 years. This gap between exposure and disease may delay diagnosis until the lung cancer is advanced and less amenable to treatment. If someone with asbestos exposure also smokes, the risk of getting lung cancer increases substantially.

Until the mid-20th century, asbestos was widely used in construction and to manufacture insulation and fire retardant materials. As knowledge of the health risks associated with asbestos fiber inhalation or ingestion increased, asbestos became less commonly used. While asbestos is still present in many public buildings and in older homes, it is generally thought to be less harmful to leave it in place than to remove it, as doing so may release asbestos fibers into the air. Some industries continued to use asbestos after its risks became known, and are facing lawsuits from former employees.

The symptoms of asbestos-related lung cancer are similar to those of lung cancer in general. These include breathlessness, wheezing, chest pain, coughing up of blood, a new cough or a persistent cough, or hoarseness. A diagnosis is usually made using a combination of physical examination, x-rays, CT scans, lung tissue biopsies, and lung function tests. Recent research suggests that levels of a blood protein, osteopontin, rise in people with malignant mesothelioma. Treatment depends on the type of lung cancer and on the stage or extent of spread when it is diagnosed; overall five-year survival rates are below 20 percent.

Mesothelioma Asbestos Diseases.

2008-05-28T07:28:00.000-07:00

By Jason Gluckman

The most common diseases caused by asbestos are asbestosis and pleural disease. The most general forms of asbestos cancer are mesothelioma and lung cancer. The former is also occasionally called mesothelioma cancer or simply “meso”.

Asbestos dust is also responsible for numerous types of throat cancer, including pharyngeal cancer, esophageal cancer, and laryngeal cancer. Stomach and colon cancer are two other types of cancer related to asbestos.

It is vital to note that the latency period, which is the period between actually being in contact with the mineral and the onset of asbestos cancer or a disease related to asbestos, can be quite long. In some cases, it can be over 50 years after an individual’s first contact with asbestos that symptoms of asbestos cancer or any other asbestos disease is seen. Owing to this latency period, individuals exposed to this mineral decades back are still in jeopardy, today, to catch this illness. A trained medical professional can correctly conclude whether a person has asbestos disease or asbestos cancer. It is prudent for anybody working with asbestos to frequently consult a medical professional.

Asbestosis is another well-known disease caused by inhaling high volumes of asbestos fibers. Protracted gathering of fibers in the lungs can lead to the scarring of lung tissues. The most common complaint by a person who has contracted asbestosis is shortness of breath upon exertion. This condition is also called dyspnea. Also, a dry cough becomes more bothersome as the disease progresses. Asbestosis can lead to many other lung diseases, particularly pneumonia, that has a propensity to target weakened lungs. Furthermore, for individuals with asbestosis, the chances of getting lung cancer are multiplied by about 5 times.

Mesothelioma Asbestos provides detailed information on Mesothelioma and Asbestos, Mesothelioma Asbestos Diseases, Mesothelioma Asbestos Treatment, Asbestos Mesothelioma Cancer and more. Mesothelioma Asbestos is affiliated with Mesothelioma Diagnosis Support.

Asbestos Cancer Attorneys.

2008-05-28T07:27:00.001-07:00

By Eddie Tobey

Prolonged exposure to asbestos can give rise to lung cancer. Asbestos cancer attorneys are lawyers who represent victims who have contracted this dreadful disease through prolonged contact with asbestos. Their aim is to obtain compensation for their clients from those responsible for causing the damage.

The asbestos cancer lawyers have forcefully and fruitfully fought for asbestos workers and their families. There are a large number of cancer attorney firms in the US, with a sizeable number of asbestos claimants, and they have won substantial compensation for their affected clients. Asbestos cancer attorneys usually employ top medical professionals and scientists to assist them in developing a case.

These attorneys are devoted to making sure that each of their clients obtains the consideration his or her case is worthy of. If one is suffering from cancer due to extensive exposure to asbestos, the straightforward reality is that the more clients the attorneys stand for, the better the chance of negotiating with the companies that caused the dreaded disease.

According to the National Cancer Institute, around 3,000 cases of malignant cancer from asbestos exposure are being reported in the United States each year, and the occurrence seems to be rising. The syndrome is three times more widespread in men than in women. In men, the incidence of asbestos related cancer is ten times higher in men between the ages of 60 and 70 than in men between the ages of 30 and 40. Work-related exposure to asbestos over the past fifty years in the United States is estimated to have happened to roughly eight million people, and up to 300,000 new cases are anticipated to take place by the year 2030.

An exceptional characteristic of asbestos-connected cancer is the long latency phase between exposure to asbestos and the beginning of the disease.

Asbestos Attorneys provides detailed information on Asbestos Attorneys, Asbestos Cancer Attorneys, Asbestos Litigation Attourneys, Asbestos Mesothelioma Attorneys and more. Asbestos Attorneys is affiliated with Asbestos Trial Lawyers.