plus 3, Chemicals suspected in breast cancer, US experts want tests - The Independent |
- Chemicals suspected in breast cancer, US experts want tests - The Independent
- Fruits, veggies slash breast cancer risk: U.S. study - Windsor Star
- What Is Male Breast Cancer? What Causes Male Breast Cancer? - Medical News Today
- Diet tied to survival in breast cancer patients - Vancouver Sun
| Chemicals suspected in breast cancer, US experts want tests - The Independent Posted: 21 Feb 2010 10:59 AM PST Message from fivefilters.org: If you can, please donate to the full-text RSS service so we can continue developing it.
US experts called Friday for toxicity tests on chemicals they suspect play a role in the development of breast cancer, a leading cause of death in American women. "We're currently not identifying chemicals that could be contributing to the risk of breast cancer," said Megan Schwarzman, a physician and environmental health researcher at the University of California, Berkeley. According to Schwarzman, only a handful of the more than 200 chemicals in the environment linked to mammary tumors in lab animals have been regulated by the US authorities "on the basis of their ability to cause breast cancer." She was speaking at a major science gathering, the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science in San Diego. Schwarzman is part of a panel of experts set up last year to identify which chemicals cause breast cancer and to develop toxicity tests to identify them. The Breast Cancer Chemical Policy Project is expected to submit a report to health authorities in April. As the incidence of the most common invasive cancer in women has skyrocketed in a generation, a flurry of studies have looked into the role of chemicals in breast cancer. Treatment and survival rates have improved, but scientists have been running to stand still when it comes to pinpointing what causes breast cancer, said panel member Sarah Janssen, a physician and scientist with the Natural Resources Defense Council. "Although we've made great strides in improving treatment and breast cancer survival rates, really we don't know much about preventing breast cancer... and most of the causes are not well understood," she said, noting hypotheses that environmental exposure affects breast development and the risk of disease. "People are exposed to dozens of chemicals in their daily activities and biomonitoring has detected hundreds of chemicals in the fetal cord blood, in breast milk, adult blood and urine." Only around a quarter of more than 186,000 women diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005 were genetically predisposed to the disease, and other breast cancer risk factors, including the early onset puberty in girls, have been linked to chemicals. '); } else { document.write('Five Filters featured article: Chilcot Inquiry. Available tools: PDF Newspaper, Full Text RSS, Term Extraction. |
| Fruits, veggies slash breast cancer risk: U.S. study - Windsor Star Posted: 21 Feb 2010 06:20 AM PST Message from fivefilters.org: If you can, please donate to the full-text RSS service so we can continue developing it. WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Certain breast cancer survivors who load up on fruits and vegetables, eating far more than current U.S. guidelines, can slash their risk the tumors will come back by nearly a third, according to a U.S. study released on Monday. The finding only held for women who did not have hot flashes after their cancer therapy, the researchers said -- a finding that suggests fruits and vegetables act on estrogen. Their analysis suggests an explanation for why some studies have shown that eating more fruits and vegetables lowers the risk that breast cancer will come back, while others do not. It may depend on the individual patient, they report in the Journal of Clinical Oncology. "Women with early stage breast cancer who have hot flashes have better survival and lower recurrence rates than women who don't," said Ellen Gold of the University of California Davis, who helped lead the study. Several studies have shown this. And this study showed that women who had hot flashes after treatment for breast cancer had lower estrogen levels than women who did not. As estrogen drives the most common type of breast cancer, this suggests that eating extra servings of fruits and vegetables -- above and beyond the five servings a day recommended by the U.S. government -- may lower harmful estrogen levels in cancer survivors, the researchers said. "It appears that a dietary pattern high in fruits, vegetables and fiber, which has been shown to reduce circulating estrogen levels, may only be important among women with circulating estrogen levels above a certain threshold," said John Pierce of the University of California San Diego. The researchers took a second look at data from 3,000 breast cancer patients in a study aimed at seeing whether a diet low in fat and high in fruits and vegetables might keep their cancer from coming back. Such a diet has been shown to lower overall risk of ever getting breast cancer in the first place. The women were on average 53, and half were told to double their fruit and vegetable intake to 10 servings a day, eat more fiber and lower fat intake more than government recommendations. "We compared the dietary intervention group to a group that received '5-a-day' dietary guidelines," the researchers wrote. About 30 percent of the original 3,000 breast cancer survivors said they did not have hot flashes -- a common side-effect of breast cancer treatment. The researchers looked at the data on these women specifically and found that only 16 percent of those who doubled up on fruits and vegetables had their tumors come back after seven years, compared to 23 percent of those merely given advice on food guidelines. Women who had been through menopause lowered their risk by 47 percent if they loaded up on salads, fruit and other plant food. (Reporting by Maggie Fox; Editing by Julie Steenhuysen) Five Filters featured article: Chilcot Inquiry. Available tools: PDF Newspaper, Full Text RSS, Term Extraction. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| What Is Male Breast Cancer? What Causes Male Breast Cancer? - Medical News Today Posted: 16 Feb 2010 11:58 PM PST Message from fivefilters.org: If you can, please donate to the full-text RSS service so we can continue developing it. Main Category: Breast Cancer Also Included In: Men's health Article Date: 17 Feb 2010 - 0:00 PST
Male breast cancer is a rare type of cancer that forms in the breast tissue of men. Breast cancer is often thought of as a condition that only affects women, but men can also develop the condition. Yet, male breast cancer is much less common than female breast cancer. Male breast cancer can occur at any age; however it is most common in older men. Men diagnosed with male breast cancer at an early stage have a good chance for a cure. Still, many men delay seeing their doctors as a result of the widespread lack of knowledge about male breast cancer. For this reason, many male breast cancers are diagnosed when the disease is more advanced. The most common symptom of male breast cancer is the development of a lump in the breast, which is usually painless. The causes of male breast cancer are still unclear, but a number of risk factors have been identified. Certain inherited genetic mutations can increase the risk of developing breast cancer. Exposure to the hormone estrogen has also been linked to an increased risk of male breast cancer. There are a number of different treatments that can be used to treat male breast cancer, and achieving a permanent cure is often possible. These include surgery, radiotherapy, and a type of medication called tamoxifen. Breast cancer may be one of the oldest known forms of cancerous tumors in humans. The oldest description of cancer was discovered in Egypt and dates back to approximately 1600 BC. October is recognized as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month by the media as well as survivors, family and friends of survivors and/or victims of the disease. A pink ribbon is worn to recognize the struggle that sufferers face when battling with the cancer. The blue ribbon (for men) was designed to bring awareness that "Men Get Breast Cancer Too!" What are the signs and symptoms of male breast cancer?A symptom is something the patient feels and reports, while a sign is something other people, such as the doctor detect. For example, pain may be a symptom while a rash may be a sign.Signs and symptoms of male breast cancer can include:
These additional symptoms can include:
What causes male breast cancer?It is unclear what causes male breast cancer. Cancer begins with an alteration to the structure of the (DNA) that is found in all human cells. This is known as a genetic mutation. Experts know that male breast cancer occurs when some breast cells begin growing abnormally and divide more rapidly than healthy cells do.The accumulating cells form a tumor. Left untreated, cancer can grow and spread to other parts of the body, usually via the lymphatic system. Once the cancer reaches the lymphatic system, it can spread to any other part of the body, including the bones, blood, and organs. Where does breast cancer begins in men?Everyone has a small amount of breast tissue. It is made up of milk-producing glands called lobules, ducts that carry milk to the nipples and fat. Women begin developing more breast tissue during puberty. Because men are born with a small amount of breast tissue, they can develop breast cancer.Types of male breast cancer diagnosed include:
Some men inherit from their parents mutated genes that increase the risk of breast cancer. Mutations in one of several genes, especially a gene called BRCA2, increase the risk of developing breast and prostate cancers. These particular genes help prevent cancer by making proteins that keep cells from growing abnormally. When there is a mutation, the genes are not as effective. Advice from a genetic counselor can be helpful. Undergoing genetic testing can determine whether one carries gene mutations that increase the risk of breast cancer. What are the risk factors for male breast cancer?A risk factor is something which increases the likelihood of developing a condition or disease. For example, obesity significantly raises the risk of developing diabetes type 2. Therefore, obesity is a risk factor for diabetes type 2. A number of risk factors for male breast cancer have been identified:Genetic mutations Parents can pass on specific genetic mutations to their children. A number of mutated genes have been linked to an increased risk of male breast cancer. There is also evidence that male breast cancer can run in families. Men who have a first-degree male relative (a father, or brother) who has a history of breast cancer are more at risk. Estrogen exposure Estrogen is a hormone that contains powerful chemicals. There is evidence that prolonged exposure to estrogen can increase the risks of male breast cancer. Men tend to have low levels of estrogen compared to women, but there are a number of situations that can increase the levels of estrogen in men:
There is evidence that men who work in hot environments are twice as likely to develop male breast cancer compared with men who work in cooler environments. Working environments that have been linked to an increase risk of male breast cancer include: furnaces, steel works, rolling mills, and car manufacturing plants. One theory suggests that excessive heat may damage the testicles, which could lead to an increase in estrogen levels. Another theory is that working in hot environments usually involves exposure to certain chemicals, which may increase the risk of male breast cancer. Rates of male breast cancer are also unusually high in men who manufacture perfumes and soaps. They are seven times more likely to develop breast cancer than the male population at large. Exposure to certain chemicals seems to be a factor. Other factors that increase the risk of male breast cancer include:
How is male breast cancer diagnosed?A careful visual medical examination of the breasts will be made. The doctor will also examine the rest of the body for signs that the cancer has spread, such as feeling for an enlarged liver or enlarged lymph nodes. It is likely further tests will be required:Mammogram It is a type of X-ray that is designed to determine whether there are any changes in breast tissue that could be the result of cancer. The mammogram procedure involves compressing the breasts between two X-ray plates. This should not be painful. The compression of the mammogram can be uncomfortable. Ultrasound It uses high frequency sound waves to produce an image of the inside of the breasts. An ultrasound probe, or sensor, will be placed over the breasts in order to create an image on a screen. The image will highlight any lumps, or abnormalities, that may be present in the breasts. Biopsy It is a test that can be used to either confirm, or rule out, a diagnosis of male breast cancer. It involves taking a sample of suspected cancerous tissue and checking it in a laboratory for the presence of cancerous cells. A breast biopsy is commonly done by inserting a needle into the breast lump and drawing cells or tissue from the area. When analyzed in a laboratory, the tissue sample reveals whether the patient has breast cancer and, if so, what type of breast cancer it is. If cancer is found, the biopsy will also be able to check whether there are special proteins, known as estrogen receptors, on the surface of the cancerous cells. This information is important because if estrogen receptors are found it is possible to treat the cancer using hormone therapy. Determining the extent of the cancer The doctor will work to determine the extent or stage of the cancer. This helps determine treatment options. Staging tests include blood tests and imaging tests, such as X-rays, computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The stages of male breast cancer are:
How is male breast cancer treated?To determine male breast cancer treatment options, doctors consider the patient's cancer stage, overall health and preferences.Surgery The goal of surgery is to remove the tumor and surrounding breast tissue. Surgical procedures used to treat male breast cancer include:
Radiation therapy Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams, such as X-rays, to kill cancer cells. During radiation therapy for male breast cancer, radiation comes from a large machine that moves around the body, directing the energy beams to precise points on the chest. Radiation therapy may be used to eliminate any remaining cancer cells in the breast, chest muscles or armpit after surgery. Common side effects of radiotherapy include:
Chemotherapy Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy is used to treat cases of male breast cancer where the cancerous cells do not have estrogen receptors, meaning that hormone therapy would be mostly ineffective. Chemotherapy treatment often involves receiving two or more drugs in different combinations. These may be administered intravenously, in pill form or by both methods. Chemotherapy may be recommended after surgery to kill any cancer cells that may have spread outside the breast. Chemotherapy may also be an option for men with advanced breast cancer that has spread beyond the breast. The side effects of chemotherapy include:
Hormone therapy Hormone therapy can be used in cases of male breast cancer where there are estrogen receptors on the walls of the cancerous cells. This means that the cells can use estrogen to help them grow and reproduce. Therefore, the aim of hormone therapy is to block the effects of estrogen. Hormone therapy for male breast cancer often involves the medication tamoxifen. Tamoxifen is a widely used medication in hormone therapy. It works by blocking the estrogen receptors so that estrogen is unable to enter into cancerous cells. Tamoxifen in available in pill form and most men who are prescribed it are recommended to take one pill a day for five years. Side effects of tamoxifen include:
Targeted therapies attack specific abnormalities within cancer cells. Targeted therapy drugs attack breast cancer cells by:
An alternative hormone treatment to tamoxifen is a class of medication that is known as aromatase inhibitors. Men's bodies create estrogen by converting another hormone called androgens. This conversion is carried out by a protein called aromatase. The medication blocks the effects of the aromatase protein which, in turn, lowers the amount of estrogen in the body. Aromatase inhibitors are usually given in pill form, and are taken daily for between 2 to 5 years. As male breast cancer is a rare condition, there is very little available evidence regarding what the most effective length of dosage is. Side effects of aromatase inhibitors include:
What are the complications of male breast cancer?LymphoedemaIt is a common complication of any surgery that involves the removal of lymph nodes, such as modified radical mastectomy. The most common symptom of lymphoedema is swelling and heaviness in the limbs, usually the arms. Lymph is a white fluid that runs through the body's lymphatic system. If one, or more, of the lymph nodes are removed, the normal flow of lymph can become disrupted, leading to a build-up of fluid in the limbs. There is no cure for lymphoedema, but it is possible to control the symptoms using a combination of different techniques, such as massage and compression clothing. Alternative medicine Some alternative treatments are considered to be helpful when coping with the side effects of cancer and cancer treatment. However, alternative treatments for male breast cancer are not proven to cure the disease. Alternative medicine treatments may help the patient cope with feelings of anxiety and distress. Some alternative medicine treatments are:
Coping and supportReceiving a cancer diagnosis is shocking and frightening. Here are some helpful tips:
PreventionTo reduce the risk of male breast cancer:
Obesity and a diet that is high in fat are possible causes of breast cancer because they increase the amount of the hormone, estrogen, in the blood, which has been linked with breast cancer. Therefore, leading a healthy lifestyle is a good way to help prevent male breast cancer, as well as many other serious health conditions. General guidance includes:
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| Diet tied to survival in breast cancer patients - Vancouver Sun Posted: 21 Feb 2010 05:15 AM PST Message from fivefilters.org: If you can, please donate to the full-text RSS service so we can continue developing it. NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Women with early-stage breast cancer may live longer if they maintain a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy, a new study suggests. This so-called "prudent" diet was not linked to a lower risk of death from breast cancer specifically. However, researchers found, breast cancer patients who ate this way were less likely to die from other causes over the eight-year study period. "Consumption of a diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and poultry, and low in red meat and refined foods may positively influence a woman's overall health and prevent other cancers and chronic diseases," Dr. Marilyn L. Kwan, a researcher at Kaiser Permanente in Oakland, California, told Reuters Health. The results are also consistent with past studies suggesting that diet may be a more important factor in general health and diseases other than breast cancer than it is in breast cancer survival specifically, according to Kwan and her colleagues. The findings, published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, are based on 1,901 women diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer. Between 2000 and 2002, the women completed detailed questionnaires on their diet, exercise habits, weight and other health factors. They were then followed for up to eight years. During that time, 226 women died, with 128 deaths attributed to breast cancer. Kwan's team found that women who'd reported a prudent dietary pattern at the outset had a lower overall death rate than those who'd reported a more "Western"-style diet -- one high in red and processed meats, snack foods, high-fat dairy and refined grains like white bread. Women with the highest intakes of healthier foods were about half as likely to die during the study period as women with the lowest intakes, even with other important factors taken into account -- like the initial size of the breast tumor, the treatment type and patients' smoking habits. Conversely, women with the most Western eating habits had a 53 percent higher risk of death overall than those with the lowest intakes of those foods. Neither dietary pattern, however, was related to the odds of breast cancer recurrence or to women's risk of dying from the disease. Still, the link between diet and overall survival means that eating healthy is "very much an important factor for breast cancer survivors," Kwan said. "Women living with breast cancer still want to know how they can improve their overall chances of surviving," she noted, "and as our study shows, eating a more healthful diet is beneficial for overall survival." SOURCE: Journal of Clinical Oncology, online December 29, 2008. Five Filters featured article: Chilcot Inquiry. Available tools: PDF Newspaper, Full Text RSS, Term Extraction. |
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