 |
Cancer Blog provides blog space on cancer related topics such as
treatment, lung cancers, leukemia, symtom, prevention, and more general cancer
issues. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted on February 10th, 2009 by Kathy Austin
Each year millions of pets are relinquished to shelters because of preventable, behavior-related issues. Even the most experienced pet owners can become confused by what they view as problematic animal behavior, leaving them with few options. Unwanted behavior is the number-one reason for the fracture of the human-animal bond and our relationships with our pets, resulting in millions of dogs and cats losing their homes each year. Sadly, many are euthanized.
Organizations dedicated to protecting animal health are conducting extensive research into the topic. A leading expert in the field of animal behavior, Dr. R.K. Anderson reflects, “We can’t fix this problem without data. And we need to do research to supply the data.” Morris Animal Foundation , a nonprofit foundation funding animal health research studies, partnered with Dr. Anderson to establish the R.K. Anderson Animal Behavior Research Endowment. This fund will advance the science and knowledge of behavior in companion animals so that the quality and duration of their lives can be increased.
Currently, MAF is funding research to better understand both canine and feline behavioral issues. On the canine front, MAF is studying the effectiveness of shelter enrichment programs, which are designed to reduce stress for dogs, enhance adoptability, shorten the dog’s time in the shelter and improve behavior and retention in homes following adoption.
Another dog behavior study will develop a more effective version of the Canine Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire , commonly used in shelters to assess animals that are relinquished. The goal is to help shelter staff better predict the adoptability of an animal. Still another canine research study will evaluate possible behavioral differences between surrendered animals and strays. The behavior of these two groups of animals will be compared to see if any differences exist. Ultimately, by understanding these animals’ behavior, shelter staff can better handle and train these animals, leading to better adoptions.
On the feline front, MAF is sponsoring a research study to look at how cats behave in relation to their color as well as how they react when they are admitted for radiographs. The researcher will record their sex, color, whether or not they have claws, how healthy/sickly they look, why they are having radiographs performed as well as their behavior while at the clinic. She will then compare the groups to determine whether there is any relation between the color of the cats and their behavior.
No Comments »
Filed under: Uncategorized
|
|
Posted on November 3rd, 2008 by Kathy Austin
Most SPCA organizations in any number of cities accept and need volunteers. The volunteers often do tasks like dog walking and playing with the animals within the care of the facility. It can be a stressful position but it needs to be done. Call your local SPCA or other animal shelter to find out how you can help. You might be amazed at the huge difference even just one person can make, plus it’s rewarding. Offering dog walking services, either paid or free is a fantastic way to get some exercise while playing with the neighbourhood pooches. Many seniors or busy families may welcome this type of service. It allows you to spend quality time with several animals while on your own time and conditions. Pet sitting goes hand in hand with dog walking. Caring for animals is a big job but one that can easily be done by the right person.
One animal that is perfect for a number of hobbies is the horse. Horses are very dynamic creatures with a vast intelligence. Go out for a leisurely ride or learn how to do something a little wild like barrel racing. An old fashioned wagon is all it takes for a traditional hay ride in any season. A well trained horse will usually be safe for people of all ages, using proper safety equipment of course. The training of animals is a full blown career for many but it often begins as a hobby. Start with your own animals at home by teaching basic obedience. If you find it to be something you have a knack for, consider a professional approach. Animal obedience training is always in demand. There are countless animal charities and organizations that always need some kind of financial support. If fundraising is something you exceed at or would like to try, there is no better way to help needy animals than by ensuring they have much needed provisions. Many volunteers consider the work they do to be a hobby. They enjoy what they do because it makes a difference. Animal related hobbies are numerous. Take the first step in the direction that draws you for the hobby you can be proud of.
No Comments »
Filed under: Uncategorized
|
|
Posted on August 20th, 2008 by Teja
Many options exist for the actual intake of nutritional supplements for cancer patients and survivors including powders, liquids, soft gel capsules and traditional pills. Some people find it near impossible to swallow a pill, especially one that is large enough for a horse, when fighting cancer so liquid vitamins or powder mineral supplements are a good alternative. Another benefit is liquid form nutrients generally are absorbed by the body quicker than traditional hard vitamins. For those who don’t care for the taste of liquid vitamins but also struggle with large pills then soft gel capsules are a nice medium. Soft gel vitamins are quite a bit easier to take down and larger pills may be in the form of two or three smaller capsules. If you know some one with cancer you may be considering what you can do for your own cancer prevention. A big step is proper diet with the minerals and supplements necessary to keep your immune system strong. Fighting off cancer or any other disease requires constant monitoring of the individuals health support system which is directly related to nutrition. Here is a quick list of vitamin supplements to aid in a healthy lifestyle for cancer patients, survivors and everyone else: B-1, Zinc, Boron, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Potassium, Magnesium, Calcium, Chromium, Germanium
You can get many of these essential vitamins with one of the several multivitamins available and sometimes companies add fancy names for some of the nutrients. For example one variation of Beta-Carotene is mainly comprised of Vitamin A with some Vitamin E & Lecithin. Cancer nutrition may seem overwhelming but with the help of your doctor and nutritionist a simple plan is easy to put in place. Remember to talk to your provider about what you feel is working, what’s not and discuss possible changes to maximize the nutrition strategy. It is just as important to maintain a healthy lifestyle covering all your necessary minerals once finished with cancer therapy as it is during the difficult treatment phase. Keeping with your plan will allow you to claim cancer survivor status for years to come.
No Comments »
Filed under: Uncategorized
|
|
Posted on July 10th, 2008 by Ruby
In its most general terms, cancer is a word used to describe the occurrence of cells in any part of the body or on the external skin to grow out of control and in a dis-ordered manner. Normal cells are able to regulate their growth and division, but cancer cells do not have this ability. There are many different types of cancer, many of which are more treatable than others, but all forms of cancer share at least one common feature: they are abnormal cells. Sometimes, different types of cancer consist of very different types of abnormal cells. This is why different types of cancer are treated with different medications and procedures. For example, the treatment for breast cancer is completely different from the treatment a mesothelioma patient receives.
The general public is constantly cautioned about what causes an increased risk of developing cancer. In general, risk factors boil down to habits (i.e. smoking and drinking, excessive sun exposure), family history, health conditions, and the environment in which a person works and lives. In the case of mesothelioma, it has been determined that almost every single case is due to the unprotected exposure and inhalation of asbestos particles at any time during a person’s life. A diagnosis of any form of cancer, including mesothelioma, can only be diagnosed by way of a biopsy. For a biopsy, doctor will take a tiny sample of the cells causing a lump, tumor or suspicious group of cells, and look at it under microscope. While tests such as x-rays and other imaging scans can see masses or lumps, they can not determine the type of cells that make up abnormal growths. When a doctor looks at the cells under a microscope, it can be determined if the cells are cancerous, and usually what type of cancer is present.
No Comments »
Filed under: Uncategorized
|
|
Posted on June 28th, 2008 by Victoria
Cancer is a class of diseases or disorders characterized by uncontrolled division of cells and the ability of these to spread, either by direct growth into adjacent tissue through invasion, or by implantation into distant sites by metastasis (where cancer cells are transported through the bloodstream or lymphatic system). Cancer may affect people at all ages, but risk tends to increase with age. There are many types of cancer. Most cancers are named for where they start. For example, lung cancer starts in the lung, and breast cancer starts in the breast. The spread of cancer from one part of the body to another is called metastasis. Severity of symptoms depends on the site and character of the malignancy and whether there is metastasis.
Cancer prevention is defined as active measures to decrease the incidence of cancer. Much of the promise for cancer prevention comes from observational epidemiologic studies that show associations between modifiable life style factors or environmental exposures and specific cancers. Use of exogenous hormones, exposure to ionizing radiation and ultraviolet radiation, certain occupational and chemical exposures, and infectious agents. Alcohol consumption, Smoking (although 20% of women with lung cancer have never smoked, versus 10% of men. Cancer however, compared with tobacco exposure, the magnitude of effect is modest or small and the strength of evidence is often weaker. Do not take the Alcohol and No Smoking.
No Comments »
Filed under: Uncategorized
|
|
Posted on June 12th, 2008 by Juliette
Cancer is not a single disease in fact it is the combination of diseases, so its treatment is also different for different type of cancer. There are so many cancer types like skin cancer, lung cancer, brain cancer, breast cancer, bladder cancer, kidney cancer and so on. Cancer could be treated if it is diagnosed at an early stage only. Apart from other cancer treatment options, some self medication tips are also useful for treating cancer.
Some good things that a cancer patient can do to help in reducing aftermaths of cancer through some simple changes in the lifestyle: 1-Use a sunscreen with at least a 15 SPF (Sun Protection Factor) when you are in the sun and try to avoid the sun. Overexposure to the sun causes skin cancer. 2- Smoking is the main causes of lung cancer so stop smoking. Smoking habit contributes to one-fourth cancer patient to deaths. 3- Avoid excessive stress. 4- Eat a healthy diet that has less than 30 percent fats. High fat consumption increases your risk of developing colorectal cancer and perhaps other cancers. 6- Fiber rich foods can reduce risk of developing colon cancer, breast cancer also eat vegetables and fruits, especially green and cruciferous vegetables as well as yellow and orange vegetables and fruits. 7- Eat less of foods that are smoked or cured with salt or nitrate like junk foods. 8- Keep your weight down. 9- Exercise regularly. 10- Make sure that you take more than the RDA (but less than toxic doses) of vitamins. A, folic acid, C, and E. 11- Avoid unnecessary x-rays. 12- Cut back on alcohol. 13- Eat cereals, breads, other grain products, vegetable and fruits. 14- Include garlic in your daily diet as there are known benefits of garlic in preventing cancer.
No Comments »
Filed under: Uncategorized
|
|
Posted on May 5th, 2008 by D.S. Merchant
Curcumin, the active ingredient found from the herb Turmeric, is actually a spice and food coloring compound has long been used in Asian countries as medicines to treat many difficulties from heartburn to arthritis. It was listed as an Assyrian herbal in 600 BC, used by ancient Greeks. But the most interesting and important news is that some recent studies recommending that Curcumin has adequate potential as an anti-cancer agent. Scientists showed that Curcumin re-establishes key immune cells that fight off Cancer. Curcumin has antioxidant properties thus can decrease swelling and inflammation. It’s being explored as a cancer treatment as inflammation appears to play a role in cancer. Curcumin has the property to slow down the progress of cancerous cells and also prevent the growth of new tumor blood vessels. Studies revealed that it has an effective impact in treating or preventing colon, skin and breast cancers. It also suppresses angiogenesis and metastasis in a variety animal tumor models. Scientists have shown that Curcumin increases the production of proteins that cause immune cells to propagate and reduces the production of proteins which can destroy immune cells.
The evidences which are coming from the laboratory research are overwhelming. As per the results Curcumin is quite effective in reducing inflammation and pain. It appears to be quite an incredible nutrient. How does Curcumin work to prevent inflammation? It blocks the formation of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), a compound which promotes inflammation within the body. As per the research, Phenethyl Isothiocyanate (PEITC) and Curcumin could be effective in treating established prostate cancers.
No Comments »
Filed under: Uncategorized
|
|
Posted on March 19th, 2008 by D.S. Merchant
All types of cancer are different, and they affect the body in unique ways. If you have been diagnosed with liver cancer, make sure you remember that when you carry out your research. Cancer information about the lungs might not help you out much. You should always get your cancer information first and foremost from your doctor or GP. If you aren’t comfortable with the amount of information they seem to have for you, you may want to consider finding some other sources. Doctors do their best to stay on top of the latest studies and findings, but it is possible that your doctor may be unaware of up-to-the-minute developments and research, they are very busy people after all.
Remember when looking up cancer information online that you can’t trust everything you read. There is a lot of great information out there, and there is a lot of cancer information that is just plain wrong. Anyone can write up an article and slap it up online, but that doesn’t mean the information included is correct. That is where the web gets tricky and why I recommend you discuss your findings with your doctor before you take it as the truth. There are great sites out there, don’t get me wrong, just be aware of what source you trust when looking for cancer information on the Internet.
No Comments »
Filed under: Uncategorized
|
|
Posted on February 20th, 2008 by Cindy Heller
According to the NCI report, mortality rates “decreased for 12 of the 15 most common causes of cancer death in men (i.e., cancers of the lung, prostate, colon and rectum, bladder, kidney, stomach, brain, and oral cavity as well as leukemia, non-Hodgkin lymphoma and myeloma).” Among women, mortality rates “decreased for 10 of the 15 most common cancers (i.e., breast, colon and rectum, stomach, kidney, cervix, brain and bladder cancers as well as non-Hodgkin lymphoma, leukemia, and myeloma).” Unfortunately, while deaths from blood and cervical cancers decreased, those from liver cancer and lung cancer increased for women.
If you or a loved one are diagnosed with cancer - whether bone cancer, skin cancer, ovarian cancer, or some other form - it’s natural to jump to conclusions. That is why it is imperative to gather all of the information possible on the form of cancer and its treatments. Thankfully, the Internet can provide a wealth of information on cancer and cancer treatments. Becoming education about the disease your fighting may well be your best weapon in beating the disease. Information gives you the power to ask the right questions of health care providers, better understand your options, and pave the way to making an informed decision about cancer treatment. The Internet is also a critical tool for finding the support you need while battling cancer. If you’ve received the diagnosis, it’s extraordinarily helpful to connect with a network of people who share your experience. If a loved one has received the diagnosis, you need to get a grasp of what lies on the road ahead, and get the support you need in order to support the one you love.
No Comments »
Filed under: Uncategorized
|
|
Posted on January 29th, 2008 by Rick Landreaux
When cancerous tumors appear, the best thing to do with them is to destroy the tumor and any cancerous residue. Killing the cancer is not difficult. The problem is that the methods used to kill the cancer also kill healthy tissue. The trick then becomes killing the cancer whilst sparing the patient.
One of the most significant recent advancements in cancer treatment is Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy, or IMRT. If tumors were square and were never located near healthy or vital tissue, then IMRT wouldn’t be necessary. However, since tumors tend to come with curves and often are very close to tissue that one doesn’t want to damage, the IMRT plays a significant role in lessening damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
No Comments »
Filed under: Uncategorized
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
