Cancer

Hiding The Truth About Losing The War On Cancer

2007-11-14T08:28:00.000-08:00

By Tony Isaacs

For well over half a century we have been promised by mainstream medicine that a cure or major breakthrough for cancer was just around the corner. Every year we see promising new drugs and therapies announced. Yet every year we also see more people contract cancer and more people die of cancer.

Instead of focusing on natural and safe methods of prevention and treatment, we continue to treat by using surgery, chemotherapy and radiation to cut out, poison out and burn out the symptoms of cancer while leaving the underlying causes untreated - and we continue to largely ignore the role that proper diet, nutrition and lifestyle plays in preventing and helping cure cancer.

Although surgery does have some success against a limited number of cancers, chemo and radiation achieve at best a 3% increase in length of survival and true cures from cancer (meaning that the patient becomes completely cancer free and the cancer never returns). The fact is that for those who are diagnosed with cancer, after the third year the survival rate for those who had no treatment at all increases steadily and for those who had mainstream treatment it decreases steadily.

Sources: Dr. Ralph Moss and Webster Kehr, the "Cancer Tutor"

Despite the dismal record, those in the $300 Billion a year cancer industry appear determined to maintain a stranglehold on treatment. One way they do so is to suppress natural alternatives. Another is to misreport their success rates by altering statistics to make their success appear to be much better than it actually is.

Here are six ways that mainstream medicine misreports their statistics:

1. By re-defining "cure" as "alive five years after diagnosis: instead of using the word's real meaning, which is "cancer-free". Thus a patient could still have cancer the entire five years and die one day after the 5th anniversary date of diagnosis and still be recorded as a cure.

2. By simply omitting certain groups of people, such as African Americans, or by omitting certain types of cancer, such as all lung cancers patients, from their statistical calculations.

3. By including types of cancer that are not life-threatening and are easily curable, such as skin cancers and DCIS.

The statistics most commonly reported include many such easily curable cancers, such as localized cancers of the cervix, non-spreading cancers and melanomas, as well as "cancers" that many feel are not true cancers at all, merely pre-cances. For example, DCIS is a pre-cancerous condition that is 99% curable and makes up 30% of all breast cancers. Deduct that 30% from the breast cancer cure rates and survival statistics and and the figures are much less impressive.

4. By allowing earlier detection to erroneously imply longer survival.

5. By deleting patients from cancer treatment studies who die too soon, even if that is on the 89th day of a 90 day chemotherapy protocol.

6. By using a questionable adjustment called "relative survival rate" where they get to deduct a certain number of cancer victims who statistics say would have died during the five years of other causes such as heart attacks, car wrecks, etc.

Source: Tanya Harter Pierce "Outsmart Your Cancer"

These outrageous "fudges", as Ms. Harter too kindly calls them, have all been incorporated into cancer cure statistics to hide the fact that the war on cancer has been hopelessly lost and wrongly waged. In the opinion of many who are far more knowledgeable and qualified than I am, the so-called War on Cancer is little more than a hoax.

"Everyone should know that most cancer research is largely a fraud and that the major cancer research organisations are derelict in their duties to the people who support them." - Linus Pauling PhD (Two-time Nobel Prize winner).

"The National Anti-Cancer Program is a bunch of sh*t." - James Watson, Nobel Laureate for Medicine in 1962 , joint discoverer of the double helix of DNA, and for two years a member of the US Joint Advisory Committee on Cancer

When it comes to mainstream successes, of the three major mainstream treatment methods, surgery is the only one with respectable success rates and even then it is only successful the vast majority of the time in those who have operable types of cancer that has not yet metastasized at the time of diagnosis - and most cancers are not detected prior to metastasizing.

When it comes to Chemo, in the words of Dr. Ralph Moss:

"Chemo has some success in a few kinds of cancer, but in the conventional cancers which chemotherapy sometimes "works" such as small-cell lung cancers, the actual survival benefit is reckoned in weeks or months, not in years. And during this time, the patient is likely to experience major, even life threatening, side effects from the treatment, so the overall advantage to the patient is moot."

Radiation results are even more dismal. In some studies, patients who opted for radiation have had lower survival rates than those who did not have radiation.

Sources: Tanya Harter Pierce, Dr. Rath Foundation

Another common deception of mainstream medicine is to quote "response rates", which is defined as having a 50% tumor shrinkage for a period of twelve months. It has nothing to do with cure rates or long term survival, but it is the statistic that is often quoted to patient by their oncologists.

Yet another deception is the use of the term "remission" to imply cure, when it is nothing of the sort. As "the Cancer Tutor" Webster Kehr writes in "The War Between Orthodox Medicine and Alternative Medicine"

First of all, the National Cancer Institute defines "remission" as:

"A decrease in or disappearance of signs and symptoms of cancer. In partial remission, some, but not all, signs and symptoms of cancer have disappeared. In complete remission, all signs and symptoms of cancer have disappeared, although cancer still may be in the body." NCI - http://www.nci.nih.gov/dictionary/db_alpha.aspx?expand=R

What exactly does this definition mean relative to the three "treatment decision criteria" . . . You, the citizen, are supposed to assume that "remission" means a person is cured of their cancer. But that is not what the definition states. It states there is an absence of "signs and symptoms." So is there a correlation between the absence of "signs and symptoms" and the three treatment decision criteria above?

Generally, the determination of remission is based on a reduction in the size of the tumor or in the change of some tumor marker. These things may indicate the number of cancer cells in the body, but they are very, very crude estimates of the number of cancer cells in the body. These numbers also do not measure the pain and suffering of the patient (i.e. the quality of life) or the status of the immunity system, which is very, very important if all of the cancer cells have not been killed.

And then there is what is likely the greatest mainstream deception of all: the millions of people who are diagnosed with cancer, but actually die from the damages done by chemotherapy and radiation, most frequently major organ failure. All of those deaths are recorded as due to cancer. Though that does not bolster the mainstream cancer treatment success rates, it helps hide the dangers and deaths due to mainstream treatments.

It should be plain that the war against cancer is not being won - and to continue to claim otherwise after over half a century begs the question of why such obviously false and misleading claims and statistics. In this respect, one is reminded of the Vietnam War, where we were told that we won every battle and that we killed many more of the enemy in every skirmish. And yet the war was a failure and in the end we admitted it, stopped deceiving the public, and moved on to a different approach to stop the needless loss of lives. Today it appears that the war with Iraq will ultimately end the same way.

The war against cancer has lasted much longer and we have lost millions and millions of lives. After over half a century of failure, one has to ask how long will it take to admit it, stop deceiving the public, and move on to a different approach to stop the needless loss of lives?

Diets And Cancer: 3 Reasons Why You Could Be Creating More Cancer Cells To Your Body Everyday

2007-11-14T08:27:00.000-08:00

By Natalie Williams

A lot of people believe cancers just happen. Cancers develop if you follow an unhealthy diet full of cancer causing food over a prolonged period of time. Certain food have a lot of cancer promoting substances called carcinogens. In this article, we shall explore 3 common types of carcinogens present in a typical person's diet, what food we should eat and shouldn't eat to prevent cancer.

Acrylamide In Food: Should I Be Worried?

Acrylamide has been used in industries that specialize in the creation of plastic, manufacturing of food packaging and treatment of contaminated water. Unknown to most of us, scientists recently discoverd that acrylamide can be created during high temperature cooking methods like microwaving, frying, roasting and baking. Acrylamide has been attested to cause cancer in animals but no concrete link has been found to indicate this happens in human beings even though acrylamide is extremely unhealthly for our bodies. French fries have been tested to contain the greatest levels of acrylamide, followed by certain brands of potato chips, breakfast cereals, cookies, brewed coffee and toast bread according to the US FDA/CFSAN 2006 Exposure Assessment for Acrylamide.

Sodium Nitrate: Why You Should Avoid It

Sodium nitrate is a standard food additive of processed meat. It is used to prolong the reddish color of meat to make it look more delicious to eat at the expense of your health. During the digestion process of sodium nitrate, nitrosamine is created and this is what promotes the development of cancer cells. Sodium nitrate can be found in processed meat like hot dogs, bacon, ham, bologna, luncheon meat and pepperoni.

Trans Fat: The Worst Fat In The World

Trans fat or trans-fatty acids (TFAs) ranks as the worst kind of fat. The problem with trans fat is because it was transformed from it's vegetable oil form to a semi-solid state through the use of hydrogen. Some companies do this to save money, to improve flavor stability and to extend the shelf life of their products. Our bodies do not readily take in these hydrogenated oils and it takes a lot of extra energy to try to digest it effectively, as a result, sections of it sticks to our arteries if we do not burn it off through exercise. What's worse, trans fat promotes the development of bad cholesterol and reduces the levels of good cholesterol, increasing your risk of heart disease. Trans fat is frequently found in hydrogenated oils, commercially deep-fried food, food with vegetable shortening, partially hydrogenated oils and pastries.

Eating To Prevent Cancer

It is ideal for all of us to restrict or eliminate our consumption of processed food that contain the 3 carcinogens above and other unhealthy substances such as salt, sugar, cigarettes and alcohol. However, it is not easy for people to choose to have a healthy body over the enjoyment of good food. The decision is up to you to decide which is more important to you. At the minimum, consume as much organic vegetables, fruit and meat as you can. Having a diet made of antioxidants, fiber and nutrients from raw vegetables and fruit should help you steer clear from cancer. As a general rule, eat what nature intended us to eat and avoid man-made food.

Cancer

2007-11-04T01:46:00.000-07:00

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cancer

Cancer is a group of diseases in which cells are aggressive (grow and divide without respect to normal limits), invasive (invade and destroy adjacent tissues), and/or metastatic (spread to other locations in the body). These three malignant properties of cancers differentiate them from benign tumors, which are self-limited in their growth and do not invade or metastasize (although some benign tumor types are capable of becoming malignant). Cancer may affect people at all ages, even fetuses, but risk for the more common varieties tends to increase with age.[1] Cancer causes about 13% of all deaths.[2] Apart from humans, forms of cancer may affect other animals and plants.
Nearly all cancers are caused by abnormalities in the genetic material of the transformed cells. These abnormalities may be due to the effects of carcinogens, such as tobacco smoke, radiation, chemicals, or infectious agents. Other cancer-promoting genetic abnormalities may be randomly acquired through errors in DNA replication, or are inherited, and thus present in all cells from birth. Complex interactions between carcinogens and the host genome may explain why only some develop cancer after exposure to a known carcinogen. New aspects of the genetics of cancer pathogenesis, such as DNA methylation, and microRNAs are increasingly being recognized as important.
Genetic abnormalities found in cancer typically affect two general classes of genes. Cancer-promoting oncogenes are often activated in cancer cells, giving those cells new properties, such as hyperactive growth and division, protection against programmed cell death, loss of respect for normal tissue boundaries, and the ability to become established in diverse tissue environments. Tumor suppressor genes are often inactivated in cancer cells, resulting in the loss of normal functions in those cells, such as accurate DNA replication, control over the cell cycle, orientation and adhesion within tissues, and interaction with protective cells of the immune system.
Cancer is usually classified according to the tissue from which the cancerous cells originate, as well as the normal cell type they most resemble. These are location and histology, respectively. A definitive diagnosis usually requires the histologic examination of a tissue biopsy specimen by a pathologist, although the initial indication of malignancy can be symptoms or radiographic imaging abnormalities. Most cancers can be treated and some cured, depending on the specific type, location, and stage. Once diagnosed, cancer is usually treated with a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. As research develops, treatments are becoming more specific for different varieties of cancer. There has been significant progress in the development of targeted therapy drugs that act specifically on detectable molecular abnormalities in certain tumors, and which minimize damage to normal cells. The prognosis of cancer patients is most influenced by the type of cancer, as well as the stage, or extent of the disease. In addition, histologic grading and the presence of specific molecular markers can also be useful in establishing prognosis, as well as in determining individual treatments.

Cervical Cancer II

2007-11-03T08:26:00.000-07:00

http://www.apjohncancerinstitute.org/cancer/cervical.htm

Four types of standard treatment are used:1. Surgery Surgery (removing the cancer in an operation) is sometimes used to treat cervical cancer. The following surgical procedures may be used:

Conization: A procedure to remove a cone-shaped piece of tissue from the cervix and cervical canal. A pathologist views the tissue under a microscope to look for cancer cells. Conization may be used to diagnose or treat a cervical condition. This procedure is also called a cone biopsy.

Total hysterectomy: A surgical procedure to remove the uterus, including the cervix. If the uterus and cervix are taken out through the vagina, the operation is called a vaginal hysterectomy. If the uterus and cervix are taken out through a large incision (cut) in the abdomen, the operation is called a total abdominal hysterectomy. If the uterus and cervix are taken out through a small incision in the abdomen using a laparoscope, the operation is called a total laparoscopic hysterectomy.

Bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy: A surgical procedure to remove both ovaries and both fallopian tubes.

• Radical hysterectomy: A surgical procedure to remove the uterus, cervix, and part of the vagina. The ovaries, fallopian tubes, or nearby lymph nodes may also be removed.

Pelvic exenteration: A surgical procedure to remove the lower colon, rectum, and bladder. In women, the cervix, vagina, ovaries, and nearby lymph nodes are also removed. Artificial openings (stoma) are made for urine and stool to flow from the body to a collection bag. Plastic surgery may be needed to make an artificial vagina after this operation.

Cryosurgery: A treatment that uses an instrument to freeze and destroy abnormal tissue, such as carcinoma in situ. This type of treatment is also called cryotherapy.

Laser surgery: A surgical procedure that uses a laser beam (a narrow beam of intense light) as a knife to make bloodless cuts in tissue or to remove a surface lesion such as a tumor.
Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP):

1. A treatment that uses electrical current passed through a thin wire loop as a knife to remove abnormal tissue or cancer.

2. Radiation therapy Radiation therapy is a cancer treatment that uses high-energy x-rays or other types of radiation to kill cancer cells. There are two types of radiation therapy. External radiation therapy uses a machine outside the body to send radiation toward the cancer. Internal radiation therapy uses a radioactive substance sealed in needles, seeds, wires, or catheters that are placed directly into or near the cancer. The way the radiation therapy is given depends on the type and stage of the cancer being treated.

3. Chemotherapy Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses drugs to stop the growth of cancer cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping the cells from dividing. When chemotherapy is taken by mouth or injected into a vein or muscle, the drugs enter the bloodstream and can reach cancer cells throughout the body (systemic chemotherapy). When chemotherapy is placed directly into the spinal column, an organ, or a body cavity such as the abdomen, the drugs mainly affect cancer cells in those areas (regional chemotherapy). The way the chemotherapy is given depends on the type and stage of the cancer being treated.

What are the side effects of treatment for cancer of the cervix?

It is hard to limit the effects of therapy so that only cancer cells are removed or destroyed. Because treatment also damages healthy cells and tissues, it often causes unpleasant side effects.The side effects of cancer treatment depend mainly on the type and extent of the treatment. Also, each patient reacts differently. Patients who eat well often feel better and have more energy. In addition, they may be better able to handle the side effects of treatment. Eating well during cancer treatment means getting enough calories and protein to prevent weight loss and regain strength. Doctors and nurses can explain the possible side effects of treatment, and they can help relieve symptoms that may occur during and after treatment. It is important to let the doctor know if any side effects occur.

What happens after treatment for cancer of the cervix?

Regular follow-up exams; including a pelvic exam, a Pap test, and other laboratory tests, are very important for any woman who has been treated for precancerous changes or for cancer of the cervix. The woman should have frequent tests and exams for several years so that the doctor can check for any signs that the condition has returned. Cancer treatment can cause side effects many years later. For this reason, patients should continue to have regular checkups and should report any health problems that appear. Living with a serious disease is not easy. Cancer patients and those who care about them face many problems and challenges. Coping with these problems is often easier when people have helpful information and support services. Several useful booklets, including the National Cancer Institute booklet, Taking Time, are available from the Cancer Information Service. Cancer patients may worry about holding their job, caring for their family, or keeping up with daily activities. Worries about tests, treatments, hospital stays, and medical bills are common. Doctors, nurses, and other members of the health care team can answer questions about treatment, working, or other activities. Also, meeting with a social worker, counselor, or a member of the clergy can be helpful to patients who want to talk about their feelings or discuss their concerns.Friends and relatives can be very supportive. Also, it helps many patients to discuss their concerns with others who have cancer. Cancer patients often get together in support groups, where they can share what they have learned about coping with cancer and the effects of treatment. It is important to keep in mind, however, that each patient is different. Treatments and ways of dealing with cancer that work for one person may not be right for another, even if they both have the same kind of cancer. It is a good idea to discuss the advice of friends and family members with the doctor.Often, a social worker at the hospital or clinic can suggest groups that can help with rehabilitation, emotional support, financial aid, transportation, or home care. For example, the American Cancer Society has many services for patients and their families. They also offer many free booklets, including one on sexuality and cancer. Local offices of the American Cancer Society are listed in the white pages of the telephone directory.

INTEGRATIVE THERAPYTHE SCIENTIFICALLY FORMULATED AMINO ACID THERAPY

(Keep in mind, CAAT is much more than just a “diet”; it is an amino acid, carbohydrate, & glucose REDUCTION protocol which strategically uses the chemical reactions of amino acids, foods, and nutritional supplements to impair the development of cancer cells, thus starving them to death.) Clinical trials have already been done with humans using amino acid depravation formulas, and with much success.
(Journal American Medical Association. 1967; 200:211)

CAAT is a course of therapy to control a patient’s amino acid intake. This is achieved by taking certain foods out of a persons’ daily food plan for a short time and by replacing them with a scientifically supported formula of amino acids. It is also important to emphasize that the food plan that accompanies the amino acid formula needs to be followed so not to offset any of the benefits we are creating by depriving the cancer cells the nutrients they need to grow. Also, it is important to realize that the patient does not need to abandon their conventional cancer treatment, (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormone treatments) nor is it recommended that they do so unless it has already failed them. CAAT works synergistically with chemotherapy and/or radiation to enhance their benefits (see study by Dr. Marco Rabinowitz of the National Cancer Institute). His report on amino acid deprivation, such as with Controlled Amino Acid Therapy (CAAT), proven to inhibit phosphofructokinase which shuts down the energy supply to cancer cells, simultaneously enhancing the benefits of chemotherapy while lessening their toxic side effects. CAAT has also proven to work successfully alone.

Phase 1: CAAT Formulation
The most important component of CAAT is the scientifically formulated amino acids. Based on the specific formula for each cancer, it consists of separate amino acids, citric acid, and small amounts of sodium benzoate. Each formula replaces most of the regular daily proteins found in meats, dairy, fish, beans and nuts, which cancer cells can derive their energy from. The CAAT formula taken two times per day will nourish the healthy cells while causing the cancer cells to starve to death. Of course each individual has specific needs concerning their diet, and this is explained in the second phase of the protocol as well as with a specialist at the Institute when beginning the CAAT therapy.

Phase 2: Daily Food Intake
DISCLAIMER: The following food program SHOULD NOT be consumed without the amino acid formula and without consent from your doctor and our Institute.
Breakfast:*1/2 Grapefruit or 1-orange or 6-ounces of fresh orange juice.Whey Enhanced Protein (Vanilla Flavor – Vitamin Shoppe Brand) approximately10 – 12 grams of protein – read label carefully, based on 150 lb. person ].A serving of Grits (Butter, cinnamon and other spices are okay).1 cup of green or black tea (Fructose is sweetener of choice).* Do Not have ½ grapefruit if taking Chemotherapy

Explanation: ½ Grapefruit or 1 orange or 6 ounces of fresh orange juice are rich in the natural nutrients called Limonene and Citric Acid. Limonene helps shut down the Ras cancer gene which is over active in 90 percent of all cancers. Citric Acid helps shut down glycolosis which in turn helps starve cancer cells to death.

Whey Enhanced Protein (Vanilla Flavor – Vitamin Shoppe Brand) Phosphorus is a nutrient that cancer cells must utilize in order to grow and reproduce. This brand of whey protein is very low in phosphorous and contains no additional vitamins, so when using approximately 10 – 12 grams of protein per 150 lb. person, it helps to protect normal cells, maintain a normal appetite, and also helps to fight edema. (Edema is the swelling or water build up in the legs or other sites in the body)Whey protein is included in the daily menu of all advanced or metastatic cancer patients. When treating cancers that are stable or have regressed in size, patients then have the option of including other protein foods at their breakfast meals such as cottage cheese, yogurt, or soy foods. Eggs are allowed in the diets of patients with lymphoma and brain cancers.
Grits or Cream of Wheat or 1 slice of white toast or ½ plain bagel or ½ English muffin (Butter is okay)Grits or white rice is the preferred carbohydrate food at each meal. The other choices are options once the patient’s cancer is stable or reduced in size. Unrefined carbohydrates are included in the CAAT menu instead of whole grains to deprive cancer cells of a certain B-complex vitamin called Pyridoxine (Vitamin B-6). Cancer cells require this vitamin to manufacture certain amino acids that we keep away from through CAAT’s amino acid reduction formula and diet.Grits is the preferred carbohydrate food at all meals instead of rice, corn, or pasta because it helps deplete Tryptophan in the body, which is essential for the growth and spreading of cancer cells.

1 cup of green or black tea, using fructose as the sweetener of choice. These teas are rich sources of several compounds that help shut down glycolosis and cut off the energy supply to cancer cells. Also, green or regular tea helps to prevent certain hormones and tumor growth factors from stimulating cancer cells to grow and metastasize to other parts of the body. Brassica teas can also be taken because they contain sulphorane, a nutrient that inhibits cancer growth, and also shuts down the cancer genes.* Why we use fructose as the sweetener of choice will be explained in detail at the end of this phase of the CAAT protocol.

Lunch:
Amino acid formula (4 level plastic scoops) mixed with any of the following: Water & Fructose; Sugar free Kool-Aid; Diet ginger ale; Fresh lemonade & Fructose; Chicken or Beef broth; V8 juice.Generous amounts of One cooked vegetable or a combination of the following: asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, brussell sprouts, spinach, squash, string beans.One serving (1/2 cup)of fresh fruit. Choice of: pear, orange, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries.1 serving (moderate) of grits or corn or rice or pasta (Add tomato sauce or butter)1 tablespoon of coconut oil8 to 10 black or green olives2 tablespoons of vinegar (minimum of 5% acidity) add to vegetables or food1 cup of green or black tea (Fructose as desired)
Explanation:

This Amino Acid Reduction Formula (4 level plastic scoops may vary) combined with the special diet, allows the CAAT Protocol to reduce certain amino acids in the daily diet of the cancer patient, and is designed to replace most of the animal protein in the diet. Cancer cells require the amino acids glycine, serine, glutamic acid, and aspartic acid to synthesize DNA, build new blood vessels or duplicate its entire contents of proteins. Also, cancer cells require these and certain other amino acids in order to synthesize other proteins that act as growth promoting hormones or tumor growth factors. CAAT impairs the synthesis of a protein called elastin, which is absolutely essential to the manufacture of new blood vessels. The Amino Acid Reduction Formula, diet, certain phytochemicals and herbs work efficaciously to attack cancer cells at each and every biological front.

The generous amounts of one cooked vegetable or a combination of such helps keep normal cells healthy. They are low in carbohydrates and proteins, and high in phytochemicals, compounds which help fight cancer. Patients are allowed to eat these vegetables and salads whenever desired.

The 8 to 10 olives are rich in squalene and oleic acid, nutrients that have been reported to inhibit certain cancer growth factors. The calories in olives also help control body weight and increases ketones in the blood. Ketones help fight cancer by impairing glycolosis – a process in which cancer cells depend almost exclusively upon for their daily supply of energy. Vinegar (and fructose) are two natural products that increase the production of both ACETIC ACID and CITRIC ACID in the body.

Acetic acid and citric acid also help fight cancer by shutting down the process of glycolosis.Normal cells derive most of their daily energy supply from acetic acid and citric acid, where as cancer cells derive most of their daily energy from glycolosis.

Dinner:
Amino acid formula (4 plastic level scoops) mixed with any of the following: Water & fructose; Sugar free Kool–Ade; Diet Ginger Ale; Fresh lemonade & Fructose; Chicken or Beef broth; V8 Juice.Generous amounts of One cooked vegetable or a combination of the following: asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, brussel sprouts, spinach, squash, string beans.One serving (1/2 cup) of stewed plums with fresh cream & fructose; use 4-ounces of orange juice if plums are not in season.Avacado salad with lettuce, tomatoes, celery, onions, with lemon juice and coconut oil or olive oil.2 tablespoons of vinegar (minimum of 5% acidity) add to vegetables or food.1 serving of grits or corn or pasta or rice (Add garlic and butter or tomato sauce)1 cup of green or black tea (Fructose as desired)

Mid Evening Snack: Ketogenic Cocktail – 2 ounces of fresh cream, ½ ounce each of both coconut & olive oil, 1 tablespoon of Fructose.Sugar free Jell-O with whipped cream & Fructose or 1 plum or 4 ounces of orange juice.

Explanation: The sugar free jell-o helps to appease the appetite. Plums contain quinlic acid, which is converted into benzoic acid in the body and which in turn helps to deplete the availability of the amino acid Glycine (Glycine is essential to the synthesis of DNA for cancer cells) and the proteins that cancer cells require to build new blood vessels and their tumor growth factors. If underweight take two ounces of light cream and one ounce of olive oil/coconut oil as needed to maintain weight.

Optional Meal:
3 to 4 ounces of Veal, Fish of choice, Beef, Chicken breast, and 1-slice of white bread.
Consume this meal with a minimum of 3 hours before or after taking the amino acids.
Explanation: If the patient is 10 or more pounds underweight or if their albumin levels are below normal is when the optional meal is allowed. This meal should be eaten a minimum of 3 hours before or after taking the amino acids. CAAT provides sufficient protein to maintain the health of normal cells and adequate amounts of calories to maintain desired body weight. Any proteins taken in excess of amounts recommended in the diet will counter act the benefits of the CAAT protocol.

Special Diets: A special diet will be created for any cancer patient whose ability to consume food and liquids has placed them in a critical situation. When a patient is using a feeding apparatus, or they have become too weak or lethargic to eat and drink the daily minimum amount for survival, we will break up the total breakfast, lunch, and dinner over a period of every 2 hours during the entire day until the patient is capable of returning to a daily diet as outlined above.
Carbohydrate and glucose reduction in this diet: CAAT’S dietary menu provides approximately 20 percent of its calories in the form of carbohydrates. Calories need not be a focal point or counted daily. It is recommended that all patients combat their cancers by keeping their body weight at normal or slightly below normal levels. A patient’s desired body weight is regulated by their rate of metabolism, which in turn is regulated by their blood levels of thyroxine, cortisone, insulin, and the amounts of fats and oils in the diet. Studies with human cancer patients and laboratory animals show that reducing the calories of carbohydrates (glucose) in their daily diet by only 10 percent reduced the size of cancerous tumors. When carbohydrate (glucose) calories were reduced 40 percent, the cancers disappeared. It is recommended that those patients who are obese gradually and systematically lose their excess weight to increase the efficiency of the CAAT protocol. Those patients who are underweight shoudn’t gain weight unless they are more than 10 pounds below normal levels. When a patient is underweight due to anorexia or cachexia, such illnesses must be addressed before the CAAT protocol can begin.

Why we use Fructose and Vinegar to treat cancer:
Nobel Prize winner Dr. Otto Warburg discovered more than 50 years ago that all cancer cells produce inordinate amount of lactic acid but he couldn’t explain why.
In 2001 our Institute published the first study to show that cancer cells produce excess amounts of lactic acid because they could not access the oxygen in compartments in the cells called the mitochondria. This provided evidence that cancer cells depend almost exclusively upon glycolosis or the metabolism of glucose as their major source of energy.
Dr. Spitz and Dr. Lee with other cancer researchers published studies showing that when cancer cells are deprived glucose, their energy supply is cut off which causes these cancer cells to commit suicide.

Therefore shutting down glycolosis would be one means of destroying cancer cells because energy can only be derived from glucose through the metabolic process called glycolosis.
Recently our Cancer Institute discovered that both acetic acid and citric acid could inhibit the activity of a key enzyme in glycolosis called phosphofructokinase, which in turn shuts down the process of glycolosis. Our cancer Institute is the first to introduce both fructose and vinegar as treatments for cancer because they either contain or produce acetic acid.

In conclusion, fructose and vinegar are added as supplements to the CAAT protocol because of their acetic acid properties that help shut down glycolosis, shutting off cancer cells energy supply and causing them to die off.

Phase 3: Nutritional Supplements
Nutritional supplements are based on each unique situation. For example, slow-growing cancers produce low levels of toxic free radicals. Tumor cells that grow aggressively produce large amounts of toxic free radicals. The patient will be instructed whether or not to take anti-oxidants (in a nutritional supplement), and at what dosage, according to the levels of toxic free radicals produced in the cancerous cells.

An example of how nutritional supplements can help manipulate cancer cells involves vitamin B-6 (pyroxidine) There are four amino acids essential to the synthesis of DNA. However, those amino acids cannot be synthesized without a certain enzyme, which includes vitamin B-6 among other components. Any supplement containing vitamin B-6 SHOULD NOT be taken during the first 2 months of the CAAT protocol.

The patient will be instructed as to which nutritional supplements or phytochemicals should be purchased and at what dosage strength. Keep in mind that each supplement only complements the CAAT protocol. However, when they are combined they augment the therapeutic benefits of the aminoacid, carbohydrate, and glucose reduction diet.

Parsley: Contains ingredients that can help shut down certain enzymes called Epithelial Growth Factors, which stimulate the growth and spread of cancer. ( CAAT’S amino acid reduction diet works in the same manner )

Vitamin D: Helps activate in many kinds of cancers enzymes called Phosphotases, which literally shut down the activities of other enzymes called Kinases, which are essential to the growth and reproduction of cancer cells.

Green Tea Extract: Phytochemicals in tea help shut down glycolosis (cancer cell’s main supplier of energy) and thereby help to starve cancer cells to death. These effects help complement the effects of CAAT’S carbohydrate reduction.

Anti-Oxidants: The controversy as to whether or not to treat cancer with anti-oxidants is slowly resolving with the current understanding of how they affect the activity of genes and enzymes in cancer cells. The prevailing data shows that the benefits or lack of benefits depend upon the oxidative state the cancer cells are in. Anti-oxidants taken when the cells are in a very high oxidative state may prevent cancer cells from entering apoptosis ( apoptosis is when a cancer cell commits suicide) When oxidative stress in cancer cells is only slightly above normal, anti-oxidants are then expected to stop their growth and reproduction.

Blood Chemistry: Blood tests are usually taken every 6 to 8 weeks, depending upon the results of each test. Not only is it important to monitor the tumor markers but equally important to keep abreast of the overall health of normal tissues and organs. For example, it is important to learn of the health of the kidneys and liver, whether the body is producing sufficient red and white blood cells, etc. Low albumin levels most often indicate insufficient intake of proteins in the diet and this problem would have to be addressed. CAAT is designed to attack cancer but keep the normal cells and tissues functioning harmoniously.

Whey Protein: This protein food is recommended at the breakfast meal to help meet the daily needs of amino acids for the normal cells of the body, and to help keep albumin levels normal and to help prevent edema. We recommend Whey protein purchased from the Vitamin Shoppe because it is the only brand that we have seen with no phosphorous or additional vitamins added to it.

Grits: Grits are also recommended at the breakfast meal in place of whole grains because it is low in vitamin B-6. Cancer cells require B-6 to manufacture the amino acid Glycine, which is required for DNA synthesis. Grits, instead of whole grains, therefore helps prevent cancer cells from manufacturing DNA and building new blood vessels.

Calcium D-Glucurate: This phytochemical helps the body to retain a compound called Glucuronic acid. This is necessary to eliminate both estrogen and testosterone from the body. This is why Calcium D-Glucurate is added to the regiments of patients with breast & prostate cancers. Calcium D-Glucurate is not to be confused with calcium carbonate, which is nothing more than a calcium supplement.

D-Limonene: This phytochemical found mostly in citrus fruits blocks the process called Isoprenylation, which is necessary for tumor growth factors such as the RAS gene, Epithelial Growth factor, Tyrosine Kinase, and Insulin-Like-Growth-factor, to send their signals into the nucleus of a cancer cell and directs them to grow and divide into more cancer cells.

Tocotrienols: This member of the Vitamin E family also helps shut down Isoprenylation and assists D-Limonene in blocking the actions of the various tumor growth factors. More specifically, tocotrienols shut down an enzyme called HMG-2, which is essential to the synthesis of the building blocks that form the Isoprenylation process.

Niacin: This B-Complex vitamin works with D-limonene and the Tocotrienols to shut down the process of Isoprenylation, which as mentioned above prevents the cancer promoting RAS genes from sending signals into the nucleus of the cell. Niacin also helps deplete thee amino acid Glycine, which cancer cells need to synthesize DNA. And by reducing cholesterole in the body, Niacin helps lower the production of estrogen and testosterone.

Choline: This B-complex vitamin is included in our supplement list to help the liver metabolize Niacin and other compounds and to help fight fatigue that accompanies most forms of cancer.
Selenium: Numerous studies show that this mineral can interfere with the activity of certain genes that promote the growth of cancer and to induce cancer cells to commit suicide (apoptosis)

Perilla Oil: This oil is rich in Alpha Linolenic Acid which can inhibit the growth of cancer cells in several ways. One way is to inhibit the synthesis in the body of a tumor growth promotin hormone called Prostaglandin-2, also, Alpha Linolenic Acid inhibits the actions of certain genes that promote the growth of cancer cells. Linolenic acid is not to be confused with linoleic acid, which is a bad fat that stimulates the growth of cancer cells. This bad fat, linoleic acid, is found in all vegetable oils and nuts (With the exception of coconut oil). Olive oil has the least amount of this bad fat.

Super Miraforte: This herb impairs the synthesis of estrogen from testosterone in the body and is included in the regiments of women with breast cancer.Licorice Root Extract & Pantothenic

Acid: This herb and vitamin are added to the regiment when it is desirable to produce steroid like actions in the body. Also used to help patient’s gain weight and to inhibit the growth of lymphomas and leukemia’s.

Resveratrol: This phytochemical blocks the actions of a number of a number of cancer promoting genes thereby causing cancer cells to enter into apoptosis (cell death) and is included in the treatment of all cancers.

Indole-3 Carbinol & D.I.M.: These two phytochemicals block the actions of both estrogen and testosterone and are included in the regiments of both breast and prostate gland cancer.

Melatonin: Numerous studies show that this hormone blocks the synthesis of the cancer promoting chemicals in the body called Leukotrienes, and is included in the treatment of all cancers.

Artho Pro System: This combination of herbs and phytochemicals inhibits the synthesis of the cancer promoting hormone called Prostaglandin-2 and the Leukotriens and replaces the drug celebrex when liver problems are present. The Prostaglandin hormone is over active in most cancers and stimulates cancer growth. The body manufactures the Prostaglandin hormone from the bad fat, Linoleic acid, mentioned above.

Licorice Root Extract & Pantothenic Acid: This HERB and VITAMIN are added to the regiment when it is desirable to produce steroid like actions in the body. Used also to help patients gain weight and ti inhibit the growth of Lymphomas and Leukemias.
CAAT is designed to attack cancer, while keeping normal cells and tissues functioning harmoniously.

Cervical Cancer I

2007-11-03T08:20:00.000-07:00

http://www.apjohncancerinstitute.org/cancer/cervical.htm

What is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer starts in a woman's cervix, the lower narrow part of the uterus. The uterus holds the growing fetus during pregnancy. The cervix connects the lower part of the uterus to the vagina and, with the vagina, forms the birth canal. Cervical cancer is also called "cancer of the cervix."

Cervical cancer usually grows very slowly. Over a period of several years, cells on the surface of the cervix change from normal to abnormal. At first, the change is simply abnormal, not cancerous. Researchers believe, however, that some of these abnormal changes mark the first step in a series of slow changes that can lead to cancer.

Some of the abnormal changes go away without treatment, but others are pre-cancerous and need attention to keep cancer from developing. This phase of the disease is called "dysplasia." Often, the pre-cancerous tissue can be removed or destroyed without harming healthy tissue, but in some cases, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) is needed to prevent cervical cancer. How a pre-cancerous area (called a "lesion") is treated depends on how big the lesion is and what type of changes have occurred in the cells, whether the woman wants to have children in the future, the woman's age, the woman's general health and the preference of the woman and her doctor.

If the pre-cancerous cells change into true cancer cells and spread deeper into the cervix or to other tissues and organs, the disease is then called cervical cancer.

Cervical cancers are divided into two main types, named for the type of cell within the cervix where the cancer started:

Squamous cell carcinomas make up about 85%-90% of all cervical cancers
Another 10%-15% are adenocarcinomas
As we well know, there are many kinds of cancer; unfortunately they all come about because of the out-of-control growth of abnormal cells.

Healthy Cells vs. Cancer Cells

Healthy cells are like a cat. They need structure to determine the size of bones and shape of the body, tail and whiskers. The DNA in genes and chromosomes determine this. They need energy to play and prowl and sustain life. This is derived from chemicals in food. Cats need a system to deliver chemicals (food nutrients like amino acids, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals) to all parts of their body. These are the blood vessels. Growth factors take a kitten into a lazy old cat, all the while helping it to function normally.

The body and its cells are mostly made up of protein. The building blocks of proteins are substances called amino acids that in the form of enzymes and hormones literally control every chemical reaction within the cells. When these are modified, different messages are sent to a complex control system that can alter their function. There are twenty different kinds of amino acids that are essential to life. Twelve of these can be synthesized within the body however; eight must be supplied by the daily diet.

What causes, and are there ways to prevent cancer of the cervix?

By studying large numbers of women all over the world, researchers have identified certain risk factors that increase the chance that cells in the cervix will become abnormal or cancerous. They believe that, in many cases, cervical cancer develops when two or more risk factors act together. Research has shown that women who began having sexual intercourse before age 18 and women who have had many sexual partners have an increased risk of developing cervical cancer.

Women also are at increased risk if their partners began having sexual intercourse at a young age, have had many sexual partners, or were previously married to women who had cervical cancer.Scientists do not know exactly why the sexual practices of women and their partners affect the risk of developing cervical cancer. However, research suggests that some sexually transmitted viruses can cause cells in the cervix to begin the series of changes that can lead to cancer. Women who have had many sexual partners or whose partners have had many sexual partners may have an increased risk for cervical cancer at least in part because they are more likely to get a sexually transmitted virus. Scientists are studying the effects of sexually transmitted human papillomaviruses (HPVs). Some sexually transmitted HPVs cause genital warts (condylomata acuminata). In addition, scientists believe that some of these viruses may cause the growth of abnormal cells in the cervix and may play a role in cancer development.

They have found that women who have HPV or whose partners have HPV have a higher-than-average risk of developing cervical cancer. However, most women who are infected with HPV do not develop cervical cancer, and the virus is not present in all women who have this disease. For these reasons, scientists believe that other factors act together with HPVs. For example, the GENITAL HERPES virus also may play a role. Further research is needed to learn the exact role of these viruses and how they act together with other factors in the development of cervical cancer.Smoking also increases the risk of cancer of the cervix, although it is not clear exactly how or why. The risk appears to increase with the number of cigarettes a woman smokes each day and with the number of years she has smoked.Women whose mothers were given the drug diethylstilbestrol (DES) during pregnancy to prevent miscarriage also are at increased risk.
(This drug was used for this purpose from about 1940 to 1970). A rare type of vaginal and cervical cancer has been found in a small number of women whose mothers used DES.

Several reports suggest that women whose immune systems are weakened are more likely than others to develop cervical cancer. For example, women who have the (HIV) virus, which causes AIDS, are at increased risk. Also, organ transplant patients, who receive drugs that suppress the immune system to prevent rejection of the new organ, are more likely than others to develop precancerous lesions.Some researchers believe that there is an increased risk of cervical cancer in women who use oral contraceptives (the pill). However, scientists have not found that the pill directly causes cancer of the cervix. This relationship is hard to prove because the two main risk factors for cervical cancer, intercourse at an early age and multiple sex partners, may be more common among women who use the pill than among those who do not. Still, oral contraceptive labels warn of this possible risk and advise women who use them to have yearly Pap tests.Some research has shown that vitamin A may play a role in stopping or preventing cancerous changes in cells like those on the surface of the cervix. Further research with forms of vitamin A may help scientists learn more about preventing cancer of the cervix.At present, early detection and treatment of precancerous tissue remain the most effective ways of preventing cervical cancer. Women should talk with their doctor about an appropriate schedule of checkups. The doctor's advice will be based on such factors as the women's age, medical history, and risk factors.

PREPARING FOR TREATMENT

Most women with cervical cancer want to learn all they can about their disease and treatment choices so they can take an active part in decisions about their medical care. Doctors and others on the medical team can help women learn what they need to know.When a person is diagnosed with cancer, shock and stress are natural reactions. These feelings may make it difficult for patients to think of everything they want to ask the doctor. Often it helps to make a list of questions. Also, to help remember what the doctor says, patients may take notes or ask whether they can use a tape recorder. Some people also want to have a family member or friend with them when they talk to the doctor, to take part in the discussion, to take notes, or just to listen.Patients should not feel they need to ask all their questions or remember all the answers at one time. They will have other chances to ask the doctor to explain things and to get more information.There are usually no noticeable signs of early cervical cancer but it can be detected early with yearly check-ups.Early cervical cancer may not cause noticeable signs or symptoms. Women should have yearly check-ups, including a Pap smear to check for abnormal cells in the cervix. The prognosis (chance of recovery) is better when the cancer is found early.Possible signs of cervical cancer include vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain.These and other symptoms may be caused by cervical cancer or by other conditions. A doctor should be consulted if any of the

following problems occur:

Vaginal bleeding.
Unusual vaginal discharge.
Pelvic pain.
Pain during sexual intercourse. Tests that examine the cervix are used to detect (find) and diagnose cervical cancer.The following procedures may be used:

Pap smear: A procedure to collect cells from the surface of the cervix and vagina. A piece of cotton, a brush, or a small wooden stick is used to gently scrape cells from the cervix and vagina. The cells are viewed under a microscope to find out if they are abnormal. This procedure is also called a Pap test.

Colposcopy: A procedure to look inside the vagina and cervix for abnormal areas. A colposcope (a thin, lighted tube) is inserted through the vagina into the cervix. Tissue samples may be taken for biopsy.

Biopsy: If abnormal cells are found in a Pap smear, the doctor may do a biopsy. A sample of tissue is cut from the cervix and viewed under a microscope. A biopsy that removes only a small amount of tissue is usually done in the doctor’s office. A woman may need to go to a hospital for a cervical cone biopsy (removal of a larger, cone-shaped sample of cervical tissue).

Pelvic exam: An exam of the vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and rectum. The doctor or nurse inserts one or two lubricated, gloved fingers of one hand into the vagina and the other hand is placed over the lower abdomen to feel the size, shape, and position of the uterus and ovaries. A speculum is also inserted into the vagina and the doctor or nurse looks at the vagina and cervix for signs of disease. A Pap test or Pap smear of the cervix is usually done. The doctor or nurse also inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel for lumps or abnormal areas.

Endocervical curettage: A procedure to collect cells or tissue from the cervical canal using a curette (spoon-shaped instrument). Tissue samples may be taken for biopsy. This procedure is sometimes done at the same time as a colposcopy. Certain factors affect prognosis (chance of recovery) and treatment options.The prognosis (chance of recovery) depends on the following:
The stage of the cancer (whether it affects part of the cervix, involves the whole cervix, or has spread to the lymph nodes or other places in the body).
The type of cervical cancer.

The size of the tumor. Treatment options depend on the following:

1. The stage of the cancer.
2. The size of the tumor.
3. The patient's desire to have children.
4. The patient’s age.

Treatment of cervical cancer during pregnancy depends on the stage of the cancer and the stage of the pregnancy. For cervical cancer found early or for cancer found during the last trimester of pregnancy, treatment may be delayed until after the baby is born.After cervical cancer has been diagnosed, tests are done to find out if cancer cells have spread within the cervix or to other parts of the body. The process used to find out if cancer has spread within the cervix or to other parts of the body is called staging. The information gathered from the staging process determines the stage of the disease. It is important to know the stage in order to plan treatment. The following tests and procedures may be used in the staging process:

Chest x-ray: An x-ray of the organs and bones inside the chest. An x-ray is a type of energy beam that can go through the body and onto film, making a picture of areas inside the body.

CT scan (CAT scan): A procedure that makes a series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body, taken from different angles. The pictures are made by a computer linked to an x-ray machine. A dye may be injected into a vein or swallowed to help the organs or tissues show up more clearly. This procedure is also called computed tomography, computerized tomography, or computerized axial tomography.

Lymphangiogram: A procedure used to x-ray the lymph system. A dye is injected into the lymph vessels in the feet. The dye travels upward through the lymph nodes and lymph vessels, and x-rays are taken to see if there are any blockages. This test helps find out whether cancer has spread to the lymph nodes.

Pretreatment surgical staging: Surgery (an operation) is done to find out if the cancer has spread within the cervix or to other parts of the body. In some cases, the cervical cancer can be removed at the same time. Pretreatment surgical staging is usually done only as part of a clinical trial.

Ultrasound: A procedure in which high-energy sound waves (ultrasound) are bounced off internal tissues or organs and make echoes. The echoes form a picture of body tissues called a sonogram.

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging): A procedure that uses a magnet, radio waves, and a computer to make a series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body. This procedure is also called nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMRI). The results of these tests are viewed together with the results of the original tumor biopsy to determine the cervical cancer stage.

The following stages are used for cervical cancer:Stage 0 (Carcinoma in Situ)In stage 0, cancer is found in the first layer of cells lining the cervix only and has not invaded the deeper tissues of the cervix. Stage 0 is also called carcinoma in situ.Stage 0 Cervical Cancer (Carcinoma in Situ) Treatment of stage 0 cervical cancer may include the following:

Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP).
Laser surgery.
Conization.
Cryosurgery.
Total hysterectomy for women who cannot or no longer want to have children.
Internal radiation therapy for women who cannot have surgery. Stage IIn stage I, cancer is found in the cervix only. Stage I is divided into stages IA and IB, based on the amount of cancer that is found.

Stage IA: A very small amount of cancer that can only be seen with a microscope is found in the tissues of the cervix. The cancer is not deeper than 5 millimeters and not wider than 7 millimeters.

Stage IB: In stage IB, cancer is still within the cervix and either:
can only be seen with a microscope and is deeper than 5 millimeters or wider than 7 millimeters; or
can be seen without a microscope and may be larger than 4 centimeters. Stage IA Cervical Cancer Treatment of stage IA cervical cancer may include the following:
Total hysterectomy with or without bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy.
Conization.
Radical hysterectomy and removal of lymph nodes.
Internal radiation therapy. Stage IB Cervical Cancer Treatment of stage IB cervical cancer may include the following:
A combination of internal radiation therapy and external radiation therapy.
Radical hysterectomy and removal of lymph nodes.
Radical hysterectomy and removal of lymph nodes followed by radiation therapy plus chemotherapy.
Radiation therapy plus chemotherapy.
A clinical trial of high-dose internal radiation therapy combined with external radiation therapy. Stage IIIn stage II, cancer has spread beyond the cervix but not to the pelvic wall (the tissues that line the part of the body between the hips). Stage II is divided into stages IIA and IIB, based on how far the cancer has spread.

Stage IIA: Cancer has spread beyond the cervix to the upper two thirds of the vagina but not to tissues around the uterus.

Stage IIB: Cancer has spread beyond the cervix to the upper two thirds of the vagina and to the tissues around the uterus. Stage IIA Cervical Cancer Treatment of stage IIA cervical cancer may include the following:

1. A combination of internal radiation therapy and external radiation therapy.
2. Radical hysterectomy and removal of lymph nodes.
Radical hysterectomy and removal of lymph nodes followed by radiation therapy plus chemotherapy.
Radiation therapy plus chemotherapy.
A clinical trial of high-dose internal radiation therapy combined with external radiation therapy. Stage IIB Cervical Cancer Treatment of stage IIB cervical cancer may include internal and external radiation therapy combined with chemotherapy. Stage IIIIn stage III, cancer has spread to the lower third of the vagina and may have spread to the pelvic wall and nearby lymph nodes. Stage III is divided into stages IIIA and IIIB, based on how far the cancer has spread.

Stage IIIA: Cancer has spread to the lower third of the vagina but not to the pelvic wall.
Stage IIIB: Cancer has spread to the pelvic wall and/or the tumor has become large enough to block the ureters (the tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder). This blockage can cause the kidneys to enlarge or stop working. Cancer cells may also have spread to lymph nodes in the pelvis. Stage III Cervical Cancer Treatment of stage III cervical cancer may include internal and external radiation therapy combined with chemotherapy.
Stage IVIn stage IV, cancer has spread to the bladder, rectum, or other parts of the body. Stage IV is divided into stages IVA and IVB, based on where the cancer is found.

Stage IVA: Cancer has spread to the bladder or rectal wall and may have spread to lymph nodes in the pelvis.

Stage IVB: Cancer has spread beyond the pelvis and pelvic lymph nodes to other places in the body, such as the abdomen, liver, intestinal tract, or lungs. Stage IVA Cervical Cancer Treatment of stage IVA cervical cancer may include internal and external radiation therapy combined with chemotherapy. Stage IVB Cervical Cancer Treatment of stage IVB cervical cancer may include the following:

Radiation therapy as palliative therapy to relieve symptoms caused by the cancer and improve quality of life.
Chemotherapy.
Clinical trials of new anticancer drugs or drug combinations. There are different types of treatment for patients with cervical cancer. Different types of treatment are available for patients with cervical cancer. Some treatments are standard (the currently used treatment), and some are being tested in clinical trials. Before starting treatment, patients may want to think about taking part in a clinical trial. A treatment clinical trial is a research study meant to help improve current treatments or obtain information on new treatments for patients with cancer. When clinical trials show that a new treatment is better than the standard treatment, the new treatment may become the standard treatment.

Breast Cancer II

2007-11-02T09:25:00.000-07:00

http://www.apjohncancerinstitute.org/cancer/breast-c.htm

Probability of Breast Cancer in American WomenEstimates state that 13.4 percent of women born now in the United States will develop breast cancer at some time in their lives. This estimate is based on cancer statistics for the years 1999 through 2001. This estimate means that, if the current rate stays the same, women born now have an average risk of 13.4 percent (often expressed as “1 in 7”) of being diagnosed with breast cancer at some time in their lives. On the other hand, the chance that they will never have breast cancer is 86.6 percent (expressed as “6 in 7”). In the 1970s, the lifetime risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer in the United States was just under 10 percent (often expressed as “1 in 10”). Since then, the estimated lifetime risk has risen gradually.
13.2 percent for 1996 through 1998 (“1 in 7.55,” often expressed as “1 in 8”)
13.4 percent for 1997 through 1999 (“1 in 7.45,” often expressed as “1 in 7”)
13.5 percent for 1998 through 2000 (“1 in 7.40,” often expressed as “1 in 7”)
13.4 percent for 1999 though 2001 (“1 in 7.47,” often expressed as “1 in 7”) Because of rounding up or down to the nearest whole number, a small change in the actual risk (an increase from “1 in 7.55” to “1 in 7.47”) led to the change from “1 in 8” to “1 in 7.”This slight increase may be explained by a variety of factors. Experts believe the rise is partly due to better detection tools, which find more cases, and partly to the fact that women are living to an older age, when their risk increases (2). In addition, statistical methods have changed as statisticians work to improve the way they do these calculations. Also, the geographic areas where statistics are collected have expanded, resulting in more complete information. It is also possible that changes over the years in the lifestyle of American women (for example, having their first pregnancy at an older age, having fewer children, and using hormonal therapy to treat symptonns of menopause) may have increased the chance of developing breast cancer.The estimated probability of being diagnosed with breast cancer for specific age groups and for specific time periods is generally more informative than lifetime probabilities. Estimates by decade of life are less influenced by changes in life expectancy and incidence rates. The SEER report estimates the risk of developing breast cancer in 10-year age intervals (1). The calculations factor in the proportion of women who live to each age. In other words, they take into account that not all women live to older ages, when breast cancer risk becomes the greatest. A woman’s chance of being diagnosed with breast cancer is:
from age 30 to age 40 . . . . . . 0.44 percent (often expressed as “1 in 227”)
from age 40 to age 50 . . . . . . 1.49 percent (often expressed as “1 in 67”)
from age 50 to age 60 . . . . . . 2.79 percent (often expressed as “1 in 36”)
from age 60 to age 70 . . . . . . 3.38 percent (often expressed as “1 in 26”) These probabilities are averages for the whole population. An individual woman’s breast cancer risk may be higher or lower, depending on a variety of factors, including her family history, reproductive history, race/ethnicity, and other factors that are not yet fully understood.A team of physicians who specialize in breast cancer will be involved in your care, specifically surgical oncologists, medical oncologists and radiation oncologists. An important concept to keep in mind as you consider treatment options is the difference between local and systemic treatments. Local treatments are procedures performed on the breast and surrounding areas, such as surgery and radiation oncology. Systemic treatments, such as chemotherapy and hormone therapy, are used to treat breast cancer cells that may have spread to other parts of the body. Local and systemic treatments are often combined to ensure the best outcome possible, and your priorities are an essential part of making the best treatment choice.
SurgeryThe first step in treating the most common types of breast cancer is surgery, and your first decision will probably include a fundamental choice between breast conservation and removal of the breast. The surgical procedures are: lumpectomy (also called wide excision or partial mastectomy) with axillary lymph node dissection, total or simple masectomy, and modified radical masectomy, which includes axillary dissection. Lumpectomy is considered a partial mastectomy and conserves varying degrees of breast tissue. Total mastectomy removes the entire breast. Modified radical mastectomy removes the entire breast and some axillary lymph nodes, but the pectoralis (chest) muscle stays in place.
Before surgery, tests such as a chest X-ray, a complete blood chemistry, and a urinalysis must be performed to determine your body's ability to tolerate surgery and anesthesia.
Surgical TreatmentLumpectomy and Axillary Lymph Node Dissection, plus RadiationIf your cancer is diagnosed at an early stage, a lumpectomy or wide excision with axillary lymph node dissection may be offered as a treatment choice. The goal of this surgery is to remove the entire lump and some normal tissue surrounding the lump, but preserve the breast. Radiation follows lumpectomy and axillary lymph node dissection and is an integral part of breast conserving treatment. The two treatments combined, surgery and radiation, have proven to be as effective as the modified radical mastectomy.
Not all women, however, are candidates for breast conserving treatment; acceptable cosmetic results may not be possible for women whose breast cancers are multicentric (found in more than one area of the breast) or who have a large breast cancer and relatively small breasts. Also, it is extremely important for candidates who choose breast conservation to accept that radiation is integral to successful treatment. Willingness to accept radiation treatment following lumpectomy and axillary node dissection, and an understanding that regular follow-up is a lifetime commitment, are essential elements for making this choice. For women who choose not to have radiation, modified radical mastectomy is the treatment of choice. Lumpectomy is removal of the cancer with surrounding normal tissue. This normal tissue is called the “margin.” After the lumpectomy, surgeons check the pathology report to be sure that the margins, or edges, of the lumpectomy are clear of cancer cells. If the margin is not clear, a re-excision will be scheduled. Cancer cells on the margin are more likely in women with invasive lobular cancer, because of the finger-like projections, and in women who have ductal carcinoma in situ, because the surgeon cannot feel the cancer cells. Breast surgeons at Continuum Cancer Centers of New York aim for five millimeter to 10 millimeter margin widths. Mastectomy is the removal of all the breast tissue. In the case of an invasive cancer (not in the case of ductal carcinoma in situ), both lumpectomy and mastectomy are accompanied by either sentinel node biopsy, or a full axillary node dissection (see below).
Lumpectomy is almost always followed by radiation. The purpose of the radiation is to decrease the recurrence of breast cancer in the remaining breast tissue. A 2002 New England Journal of Medicine report* discussed the 20-year follow-up of a trial comparing mastectomy, lumpectomy, and lumpectomy plus radiation. The authors found that the recurrence rate of breast cancer in the affected breast after lumpectomy and radiation was 14 percent, whereas if no radiation was given, it was 39 percent. When a recurrence is found, a mastectomy is usually performed. In some cases, however, a second lumpectomy is done. Mastectomy has a very small local recurrence rate (about 4 percent). This is because some breast tissue may remain on the skin when the breast tissue is removed from under it.
Although the local recurrence rates are different between lumpectomy and mastectomy, the survival rate for women undergoing either of these procedures is the same. The New England Journal report showed that the 20-year survival for women undergoing mastectomy, lumpectomy, or lumpectomy with radiation was exactly the same. This conclusion has been supported many times in other reports, including another 20-year follow-up from Italy.**Lymph nodes are small lima bean-shaped structures which contain white blood cells called lymphocytes. There are lymph nodes in many locations in the body, including the axilla (or armpit), which contains about 30 lymph nodes. In the past 10-15 years, lymph nodes were removed from the axilla to check for spread of the breast cancer. However, a new technique called sentinel node biopsy is now used, which checks for the spread of cancer by removing only one or two nodes. The sentinel node is the first or primary node to receive lymphatic drainage from the breast. The surgeon finds this lymph node by using a radioactive compound called Technicium. Technicium is injected into the skin of the breast, over the area of the cancer, on either the day before or the morning of surgery. The lymphatics of the breast carry the Technicium to the sentinel node, and the surgeon finds the node by using a Geiger counter. In a lumpectomy, the sentinel node is removed through a small incision in the axilla. In a mastectomy, the sentinel node is removed through the mastectomy incision.
The sentinel node is often tested by frozen section during surgery. If the sentinel node is clear of cancer cells, no other lymph nodes will be removed from the axilla. If the sentinel node contains cancer cells, a full-node dissection will be performed, since more nodes may be affected. Approximately 10 percent of sentinel nodes found to be negative by the pathologist on the frozen section will contain cancer cells on the final pathology report. If this occurs, further surgery to remove additional nodes may be required, and will be scheduled as soon as possible.Making Choices The choice that most women with breast cancer face is to undergo either breast conserving treatment (only the lump is removed followed by radiation) or modified radical mastectomy. Research involving thousands of women over many years has shown that for women with early stage breast cancers, there is no difference in survival between these two options. Sometimes breast cancers do recur in the lumpectomy breast, but mastectomy can be performed at that time. For most women who undergo breast conserving treatment, the outcome is the same as those who had mastectomy in the first place.Nonetheless, making a decision between breast conserving treatment, lumpectomy with axillary lymph node dissection plus radiation, or modified radical mastectomy is a very personal one. If you choose a mastectomy, or our oncologist recommends that you have a mastectomy, then you may wish to consider reconstructive surgery. Reconstruction can be performed immediately, it can be delayed, or you may not wish to undergo reconstruction at all. It is important to remember that no decision must be made overnight. You need to give yourself a chance to discuss these options with family members, with your physicians and with friends. When you have additional questions, please contact the surgeon and other members of the interdisciplinary healthcare team during your decision-making process. After SurgeryAfter a Lumpectomy with Sentinel Node BiopsyLumpectomies with axillary node dissection are usually performed with local anesthesia and sedation. Patients are usually sent home the same or next day after surgery, once the effects of the anesthetic have worn off. A followup appointment will be scheduled within 7 to 10 days after your surgery.After a Total Mastectomy and Sentinel Node BiopsyIf you have a Total Mastectomy and Sentinel Node Biopsy, two drainage tubes will be in place to drain fluids that may collect in the operative areas--one to drain the chest area and the other to drain where the sentinel node was removed. Should the drainage tube(s) not be removed during your hospital stay, you and a family member or friend will receive simple instructions before you are discharged on how to care for the tubes at home. After you wake up from a Sentinel Node Biopsy, you may experience some discomfort around your chest and under your arm. Your doctor will order pain medication that will control your discomfort. You'll be encouraged to get out of bed the same day as surgery, as soon as the anesthetic has worn off, and at that time you should be able to eat regular food. Expect to stay in the hospital overnight. If you are having breast reconstruction, the stay is two to four nights.Prior to leaving the hospital, we will give you a temporary prosthesis, or breast form. It provides symmetry without putting pressure on the surgical area. Once you have healed, usually 4-6 weeks after your surgery, we will give you a prescription to purchase a permanent prosthesis or breast form.A followup appointment will be scheduled within 7 to 10 days after your surgery to remove the drainage tube under your arm. At this visit, the surgeon will provide information on your pathology and future treatments.
Adjuvant TherapyAfter the primary tumor has been treated, we then consider adjuvant therapy. Adjuvant means "in addition to," and these therapies are given in addition to surgery, or surgery plus radiation, to decrease the risk of the breast cancer returning. Our intent is to choose an adjuvant therapy that has the best chance to kill any breast cancer cells lingering throughout the body, or to block the hormonal receptors of either the remaining cancer cells or normal breast cells. We determine the therapy that best kills the cancer cells, while preventing as much as possible the onset of disrupting side effects. Adjuvant therapies include radiation, chemotherapy, and hormonal therapies.Radiation OncologyAdvanced Breast Cancer Continuum Cancer Centers of New York uses an interdisciplinary approach to advanced breast cancer. When cancer begins, it is a single, genetically abnormal cell. The cell divides and becomes two cells, which divide into four cells, then eight cells, and so on. Eventually, the single cell becomes a mass of cells and develops a blood supply to nourish its continued growth. At some point, cells break off from the primary mass and move through the blood supply or nearby lymph system to other parts of the body, a complicated process called metastasis.For some women, we diagnose breast cancers and treat before metastasis occurs. For other women, we plan treatment knowing that the breast cancer has metastasized. Generally, as the tumor grows, the chance of metastasis increases. Based on research, oncologists estimate that fewer than 10 percent of women diagnosed with breast cancers smaller than one centimeter in diameter will have metastases at the time of diagnosis. That number rises to 80 percent if the cancer is diagnosed when it is larger than five centimeters in diameter.We know that breast cancer most often spreads through the blood or lymphatic systems to areas that are nourished by those systems. Breast cancer may spread to bones, liver, lung, and brain, but also to the opposite breast, adrenal glands, spleen, and ovaries. Generally, a recurrence of the disease is detected when symptoms are apparent. Even though there are tests that may detect a metastatic recurrence before the onset of symptoms, research has shown that they do not improve the response to treatments used for advanced disease, nor do they prolong life.Once metastatic disease is detected, in our interdisciplinary approach we may recommend that a woman undergo surgery to remove the metastases, or have chemotherapy or radiation to control it. Signs and symptoms of a recurrence may include:
a lump under the arm or around the surgical area;
bone pain or fractures, which may signal bone metastases;
headaches or seizures, which may signal brain metastases;
chronic coughing or wheezing, which may signal lung metastases. Other symptoms may be related to the location of metastases and may include changes in vision, an alteration in energy levels, a feeling of "unwellness," or extreme fatigue.Our overall goal in caring for women with more advanced disease is to is to achieve a remission or slow the growth of the tumor, which we know can improve symptoms, quality of life, and overall survival. Since metastatic breast cancer is not considered curable, the patient and our physicians must find a balance between treating the disease and achieving a good quality of life. It should be noted that some women live years after a recurrence of breast cancer and may undergo treatment many more times before dying from the disease. For some women, we approach breast cancer as a chronic disease.
INTEGRATIVE THERAPYTHE SCIENTIFICALLY FORMULATED AMINO ACID THERAPY
(Keep in mind, CAAT is much more than just a “diet”; it is an amino acid, carbohydrate, & glucose REDUCTION protocol which strategically uses the chemical reactions of amino acids, foods, and nutritional supplements to impair the development of cancer cells, thus starving them to death.) Clinical trials have already been done with humans using amino acid depravation formulas, and with much success. (Journal American Medical Association. 1967; 200:211)
CAAT is a course of therapy to control a patient’s amino acid intake. This is achieved by taking certain foods out of a persons’ daily food plan for a short time and by replacing them with a scientifically supported formula of amino acids. It is also important to emphasize that the food plan that accompanies the amino acid formula needs to be followed so not to offset any of the benefits we are creating by depriving the cancer cells the nutrients they need to grow. Also, it is important to realize that the patient does not need to abandon their conventional cancer treatment, (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormone treatments) nor is it recommended that they do so unless it has already failed them. CAAT works synergistically with chemotherapy and/or radiation to enhance their benefits (see study by Dr. Marco Rabinowitz of the National Cancer Institute). His report on amino acid deprivation, such as with Controlled Amino Acid Therapy (CAAT), proven to inhibit phosphofructokinase which shuts down the energy supply to cancer cells, simultaneously enhancing the benefits of chemotherapy while lessening their toxic side effects. CAAT has also proven to work successfully alone.
Phase 1: CAAT Formulation
The most important component of CAAT is the scientifically formulated amino acids. Based on the specific formula for each cancer, it consists of separate amino acids, citric acid, and small amounts of sodium benzoate. Each formula replaces most of the regular daily proteins found in meats, dairy, fish, beans and nuts, which cancer cells can derive their energy from. The CAAT formula taken two times per day will nourish the healthy cells while causing the cancer cells to starve to death. Of course each individual has specific needs concerning their diet, and this is explained in the second phase of the protocol as well as with a specialist at the Institute when beginning the CAAT therapy.
Phase 2: Daily Food Intake
DISCLAIMER: The following food program SHOULD NOT be consumed without the amino acid formula and without consent from your doctor and our Institute.
Breakfast:*1/2 Grapefruit or 1-orange or 6-ounces of fresh orange juice.Whey Enhanced Protein (Vanilla Flavor – Vitamin Shoppe Brand) approximately10 – 12 grams of protein – read label carefully, based on 150 lb. person ].A serving of Grits (Butter, cinnamon and other spices are okay).1 cup of green or black tea (Fructose is sweetener of choice).* Do Not have ½ grapefruit if taking Chemotherapy
Explanation: ½ Grapefruit or 1 orange or 6 ounces of fresh orange juice are rich in the natural nutrients called Limonene and Citric Acid. Limonene helps shut down the Ras cancer gene which is over active in 90 percent of all cancers. Citric Acid helps shut down glycolosis which in turn helps starve cancer cells to death.
Whey Enhanced Protein (Vanilla Flavor – Vitamin Shoppe Brand) Phosphorus is a nutrient that cancer cells must utilize in order to grow and reproduce. This brand of whey protein is very low in phosphorous and contains no additional vitamins, so when using approximately 10 – 12 grams of protein per 150 lb. person, it helps to protect normal cells, maintain a normal appetite, and also helps to fight edema. (Edema is the swelling or water build up in the legs or other sites in the body)Whey protein is included in the daily menu of all advanced or metastatic cancer patients. When treating cancers that are stable or have regressed in size, patients then have the option of including other protein foods at their breakfast meals such as cottage cheese, yogurt, or soy foods. Eggs are allowed in the diets of patients with lymphoma and brain cancers.
Grits or Cream of Wheat or 1 slice of white toast or ½ plain bagel or ½ English muffin (Butter is okay)Grits or white rice is the preferred carbohydrate food at each meal. The other choices are options once the patient’s cancer is stable or reduced in size. Unrefined carbohydrates are included in the CAAT menu instead of whole grains to deprive cancer cells of a certain B-complex vitamin called Pyridoxine (Vitamin B-6). Cancer cells require this vitamin to manufacture certain amino acids that we keep away from through CAAT’s amino acid reduction formula and diet.Grits is the preferred carbohydrate food at all meals instead of rice, corn, or pasta because it helps deplete Tryptophan in the body, which is essential for the growth and spreading of cancer cells.
1 cup of green or black tea, using fructose as the sweetener of choice. These teas are rich sources of several compounds that help shut down glycolosis and cut off the energy supply to cancer cells. Also, green or regular tea helps to prevent certain hormones and tumor growth factors from stimulating cancer cells to grow and metastasize to other parts of the body. Brassica teas can also be taken because they contain sulphorane, a nutrient that inhibits cancer growth, and also shuts down the cancer genes.* Why we use fructose as the sweetener of choice will be explained in detail at the end of this phase of the CAAT protocol.
Lunch:
Amino acid formula (4 level plastic scoops) mixed with any of the following: Water & Fructose; Sugar free Kool-Aid; Diet ginger ale; Fresh lemonade & Fructose; Chicken or Beef broth; V8 juice.Generous amounts of One cooked vegetable or a combination of the following: asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, brussell sprouts, spinach, squash, string beans.One serving (1/2 cup)of fresh fruit. Choice of: pear, orange, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries.1 serving (moderate) of grits or corn or rice or pasta (Add tomato sauce or butter)1 tablespoon of coconut oil8 to 10 black or green olives2 tablespoons of vinegar (minimum of 5% acidity) add to vegetables or food1 cup of green or black tea (Fructose as desired)
Explanation:
This Amino Acid Reduction Formula (4 level plastic scoops may vary) combined with the special diet, allows the CAAT Protocol to reduce certain amino acids in the daily diet of the cancer patient, and is designed to replace most of the animal protein in the diet. Cancer cells require the amino acids glycine, serine, glutamic acid, and aspartic acid to synthesize DNA, build new blood vessels or duplicate its entire contents of proteins. Also, cancer cells require these and certain other amino acids in order to synthesize other proteins that act as growth promoting hormones or tumor growth factors. CAAT impairs the synthesis of a protein called elastin, which is absolutely essential to the manufacture of new blood vessels. The Amino Acid Reduction Formula, diet, certain phytochemicals and herbs work efficaciously to attack cancer cells at each and every biological front.
The generous amounts of one cooked vegetable or a combination of such helps keep normal cells healthy. They are low in carbohydrates and proteins, and high in phytochemicals, compounds which help fight cancer. Patients are allowed to eat these vegetables and salads whenever desired.
The 8 to 10 olives are rich in squalene and oleic acid, nutrients that have been reported to inhibit certain cancer growth factors. The calories in olives also help control body weight and increases ketones in the blood. Ketones help fight cancer by impairing glycolosis – a process in which cancer cells depend almost exclusively upon for their daily supply of energy. Vinegar (and fructose) are two natural products that increase the production of both ACETIC ACID and CITRIC ACID in the body.
Acetic acid and citric acid also help fight cancer by shutting down the process of glycolosis.Normal cells derive most of their daily energy supply from acetic acid and citric acid, where as cancer cells derive most of their daily energy from glycolosis.
Dinner:
Amino acid formula (4 plastic level scoops) mixed with any of the following: Water & fructose; Sugar free Kool–Ade; Diet Ginger Ale; Fresh lemonade & Fructose; Chicken or Beef broth; V8 Juice.Generous amounts of One cooked vegetable or a combination of the following: asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, brussel sprouts, spinach, squash, string beans.One serving (1/2 cup) of stewed plums with fresh cream & fructose; use 4-ounces of orange juice if plums are not in season.Avacado salad with lettuce, tomatoes, celery, onions, with lemon juice and coconut oil or olive oil.2 tablespoons of vinegar (minimum of 5% acidity) add to vegetables or food.1 serving of grits or corn or pasta or rice (Add garlic and butter or tomato sauce)1 cup of green or black tea (Fructose as desired)
Mid Evening Snack: Ketogenic Cocktail – 2 ounces of fresh cream, ½ ounce each of both coconut & olive oil, 1 tablespoon of Fructose.Sugar free Jell-O with whipped cream & Fructose or 1 plum or 4 ounces of orange juice.
Explanation: The sugar free jell-o helps to appease the appetite. Plums contain quinlic acid, which is converted into benzoic acid in the body and which in turn helps to deplete the availability of the amino acid Glycine (Glycine is essential to the synthesis of DNA for cancer cells) and the proteins that cancer cells require to build new blood vessels and their tumor growth factors. If underweight take two ounces of light cream and one ounce of olive oil/coconut oil as needed to maintain weight.
Optional Meal:
3 to 4 ounces of Veal, Fish of choice, Beef, Chicken breast, and 1-slice of white bread.
Consume this meal with a minimum of 3 hours before or after taking the amino acids.
Explanation: If the patient is 10 or more pounds underweight or if their albumin levels are below normal is when the optional meal is allowed. This meal should be eaten a minimum of 3 hours before or after taking the amino acids. CAAT provides sufficient protein to maintain the health of normal cells and adequate amounts of calories to maintain desired body weight. Any proteins taken in excess of amounts recommended in the diet will counter act the benefits of the CAAT protocol.
Special Diets: A special diet will be created for any cancer patient whose ability to consume food and liquids has placed them in a critical situation. When a patient is using a feeding apparatus, or they have become too weak or lethargic to eat and drink the daily minimum amount for survival, we will break up the total breakfast, lunch, and dinner over a period of every 2 hours during the entire day until the patient is capable of returning to a daily diet as outlined above.
Carbohydrate and glucose reduction in this diet: CAAT’S dietary menu provides approximately 20 percent of its calories in the form of carbohydrates. Calories need not be a focal point or counted daily. It is recommended that all patients combat their cancers by keeping their body weight at normal or slightly below normal levels. A patient’s desired body weight is regulated by their rate of metabolism, which in turn is regulated by their blood levels of thyroxine, cortisone, insulin, and the amounts of fats and oils in the diet. Studies with human cancer patients and laboratory animals show that reducing the calories of carbohydrates (glucose) in their daily diet by only 10 percent reduced the size of cancerous tumors. When carbohydrate (glucose) calories were reduced 40 percent, the cancers disappeared. It is recommended that those patients who are obese gradually and systematically lose their excess weight to increase the efficiency of the CAAT protocol. Those patients who are underweight shoudn’t gain weight unless they are more than 10 pounds below normal levels. When a patient is underweight due to anorexia or cachexia, such illnesses must be addressed before the CAAT protocol can begin.
Why we use Fructose and Vinegar to treat cancer:
Nobel Prize winner Dr. Otto Warburg discovered more than 50 years ago that all cancer cells produce inordinate amount of lactic acid but he couldn’t explain why.
In 2001 our Institute published the first study to show that cancer cells produce excess amounts of lactic acid because they could not access the oxygen in compartments in the cells called the mitochondria. This provided evidence that cancer cells depend almost exclusively upon glycolosis or the metabolism of glucose as their major source of energy.
Dr. Spitz and Dr. Lee with other cancer researchers published studies showing that when cancer cells are deprived glucose, their energy supply is cut off which causes these cancer cells to commit suicide.
Therefore shutting down glycolosis would be one means of destroying cancer cells because energy can only be derived from glucose through the metabolic process called glycolosis.
Recently our Cancer Institute discovered that both acetic acid and citric acid could inhibit the activity of a key enzyme in glycolosis called phosphofructokinase, which in turn shuts down the process of glycolosis. Our cancer Institute is the first to introduce both fructose and vinegar as treatments for cancer because they either contain or produce acetic acid.
In conclusion, fructose and vinegar are added as supplements to the CAAT protocol because of their acetic acid properties that help shut down glycolosis, shutting off cancer cells energy supply and causing them to die off.
Phase 3: Nutritional Supplements
Nutritional supplements are based on each unique situation. For example, slow-growing cancers produce low levels of toxic free radicals. Tumor cells that grow aggressively produce large amounts of toxic free radicals. The patient will be instructed whether or not to take anti-oxidants (in a nutritional supplement), and at what dosage, according to the levels of toxic free radicals produced in the cancerous cells.
An example of how nutritional supplements can help manipulate cancer cells involves vitamin B-6 (pyroxidine) There are four amino acids essential to the synthesis of DNA. However, those amino acids cannot be synthesized without a certain enzyme, which includes vitamin B-6 among other components. Any supplement containing vitamin B-6 SHOULD NOT be taken during the first 2 months of the CAAT protocol.
The patient will be instructed as to which nutritional supplements or phytochemicals should be purchased and at what dosage strength. Keep in mind that each supplement only complements the CAAT protocol. However, when they are combined they augment the therapeutic benefits of the aminoacid, carbohydrate, and glucose reduction diet.
Parsley: Contains ingredients that can help shut down certain enzymes called Epithelial Growth Factors, which stimulate the growth and spread of cancer. ( CAAT’S amino acid reduction diet works in the same manner )
Vitamin D: Helps activate in many kinds of cancers enzymes called Phosphotases, which literally shut down the activities of other enzymes called Kinases, which are essential to the growth and reproduction of cancer cells.
Green Tea Extract: Phytochemicals in tea help shut down glycolosis (cancer cell’s main supplier of energy) and thereby help to starve cancer cells to death. These effects help complement the effects of CAAT’S carbohydrate reduction.
Anti-Oxidants: The controversy as to whether or not to treat cancer with anti-oxidants is slowly resolving with the current understanding of how they affect the activity of genes and enzymes in cancer cells. The prevailing data shows that the benefits or lack of benefits depend upon the oxidative state the cancer cells are in. Anti-oxidants taken when the cells are in a very high oxidative state may prevent cancer cells from entering apoptosis ( apoptosis is when a cancer cell commits suicide) When oxidative stress in cancer cells is only slightly above normal, anti-oxidants are then expected to stop their growth and reproduction.
Blood Chemistry: Blood tests are usually taken every 6 to 8 weeks, depending upon the results of each test. Not only is it important to monitor the tumor markers but equally important to keep abreast of the overall health of normal tissues and organs. For example, it is important to learn of the health of the kidneys and liver, whether the body is producing sufficient red and white blood cells, etc. Low albumin levels most often indicate insufficient intake of proteins in the diet and this problem would have to be addressed. CAAT is designed to attack cancer but keep the normal cells and tissues functioning harmoniously.
Whey Protein: This protein food is recommended at the breakfast meal to help meet the daily needs of amino acids for the normal cells of the body, and to help keep albumin levels normal and to help prevent edema. We recommend Whey protein purchased from the Vitamin Shoppe because it is the only brand that we have seen with no phosphorous or additional vitamins added to it.
Grits: Grits are also recommended at the breakfast meal in place of whole grains because it is low in vitamin B-6. Cancer cells require B-6 to manufacture the amino acid Glycine, which is required for DNA synthesis. Grits, instead of whole grains, therefore helps prevent cancer cells from manufacturing DNA and building new blood vessels.
Calcium D-Glucurate: This phytochemical helps the body to retain a compound called Glucuronic acid. This is necessary to eliminate both estrogen and testosterone from the body. This is why Calcium D-Glucurate is added to the regiments of patients with breast & prostate cancers. Calcium D-Glucurate is not to be confused with calcium carbonate, which is nothing more than a calcium supplement.
D-Limonene: This phytochemical found mostly in citrus fruits blocks the process called Isoprenylation, which is necessary for tumor growth factors such as the RAS gene, Epithelial Growth factor, Tyrosine Kinase, and Insulin-Like-Growth-factor, to send their signals into the nucleus of a cancer cell and directs them to grow and divide into more cancer cells.
Tocotrienols: This member of the Vitamin E family also helps shut down Isoprenylation and assists D-Limonene in blocking the actions of the various tumor growth factors. More specifically, tocotrienols shut down an enzyme called HMG-2, which is essential to the synthesis of the building blocks that form the Isoprenylation process.
Niacin: This B-Complex vitamin works with D-limonene and the Tocotrienols to shut down the process of Isoprenylation, which as mentioned above prevents the cancer promoting RAS genes from sending signals into the nucleus of the cell. Niacin also helps deplete thee amino acid Glycine, which cancer cells need to synthesize DNA. And by reducing cholesterole in the body, Niacin helps lower the production of estrogen and testosterone.
Choline: This B-complex vitamin is included in our supplement list to help the liver metabolize Niacin and other compounds and to help fight fatigue that accompanies most forms of cancer.
Selenium: Numerous studies show that this mineral can interfere with the activity of certain genes that promote the growth of cancer and to induce cancer cells to commit suicide (apoptosis)
Perilla Oil: This oil is rich in Alpha Linolenic Acid which can inhibit the growth of cancer cells in several ways. One way is to inhibit the synthesis in the body of a tumor growth promotin hormone called Prostaglandin-2, also, Alpha Linolenic Acid inhibits the actions of certain genes that promote the growth of cancer cells. Linolenic acid is not to be confused with linoleic acid, which is a bad fat that stimulates the growth of cancer cells. This bad fat, linoleic acid, is found in all vegetable oils and nuts (With the exception of coconut oil). Olive oil has the least amount of this bad fat.
Super Miraforte: This herb impairs the synthesis of estrogen from testosterone in the body and is included in the regiments of women with breast cancer.Licorice Root Extract & Pantothenic Acid: This herb and vitamin are added to the regiment when it is desirable to produce steroid like actions in the body. Also used to help patient’s gain weight and to inhibit the growth of lymphomas and leukemia’s.
Resveratrol: This phytochemical blocks the actions of a number of a number of cancer promoting genes thereby causing cancer cells to enter into apoptosis (cell death) and is included in the treatment of all cancers.
Indole-3 Carbinol & D.I.M.: These two phytochemicals block the actions of both estrogen and testosterone and are included in the regiments of both breast and prostate gland cancer.
Melatonin: Numerous studies show that this hormone blocks the synthesis of the cancer promoting chemicals in the body called Leukotrienes, and is included in the treatment of all cancers.
Artho Pro System: This combination of herbs and phytochemicals inhibits the synthesis of the cancer promoting hormone called Prostaglandin-2 and the Leukotriens and replaces the drug celebrex when liver problems are present. The Prostaglandin hormone is over active in most cancers and stimulates cancer growth. The body manufactures the Prostaglandin hormone from the bad fat, Linoleic acid, mentioned above.
Licorice Root Extract & Pantothenic Acid: This HERB and VITAMIN are added to the regiment when it is desirable to produce steroid like actions in the body. Used also to help patients gain weight and ti inhibit the growth of Lymphomas and Leukemias.

Breast Cancer I

2007-11-02T09:23:00.000-07:00

http://www.apjohncancerinstitute.org/cancer/breast-c.htm

Breast cancer is the most common cancer occurring in women (excluding cancers of the skin) and the second most common cause of death from cancer in women, after lung cancer. Men can also develop breast cancer, but male breast canceris rare, accounting for less than 1% of all breast cancer cases. If diagnosed at an early stage, breast cancer has a hopeful cure rate. Up to approximately 97% of women diagnosed with localized breast cancer will be alive five years after their diagnosis.Note: Estimated new cases and deaths from breast cancer (women only) in the United States in 2004:New cases: 215,990.
Deaths: 40,110.
The breast is comprised mainly of fatty tissue. Within this tissue is a network of lobes, which are made up of many tiny lobules that contain milk glands. Tiny ducts connect the glands, lobules, and lobes and carry the milk from the lobes to the nipple, located in the middle of the areola. Blood and lymph vessels run throughout the breast; the blood nourishes the cells, and the lymph drains the waste.
About 90% of all breast cancers occur in the ducts or lobes, with almost 75% of all breast cancers beginning in the cells lining the milk ducts. These cancers are called ductal carcinomas. Cancers that begin in the lobes are called lobular carcinoma and are more likely to be found in both breasts.
If the disease has spread away from its place of origin, it is called invasive or infiltrating ductal or lobular carcinoma. Disease that has not spread is called in situ, meaning "in place." The course of in situ disease, as well as its treatment, varies, depending on its place of origin. Currently, oncologists recommend that ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), which accounts for the majority of in situ breast cancers, be surgically removed to prevent progression to invasive disease.
Breast cancers grow at different rates, but some oncologists estimate the average tumor doubles in size every 100 days. Since cancers start with one irregular cell, even with this doubling time, they may not be palpable (able to be felt) for years. Mammography can find tumors that are too small to be felt, but even so, the tumors have probably been growing for years before they are large enough to be visible on a mammogram.
Breast cancer cells migrate to the lymph nodes under the arm (axillary), in the neck (cervical), or those just below the collarbone (supra-clavicular). The most common sites of metastasis, or spread, of breast cancer are skin, distant lymph nodes, bone, lung, and liver.
As we well know, there are many kinds of cancer; unfortunately they all come about because of the out-of-control growth of abnormal cells.
Healthy Cells vs. Cancer Cells
Healthy cells are like a cat. They need structure to determine the size of bones and shape of the body, tail and whiskers. The DNA in genes and chromosomes determine this. They need energy to play and prowl and sustain life. This is derived from chemicals in food. Cats need a system to deliver chemicals (food nutrients like amino acids, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals) to all parts of their body. These are the blood vessels. Growth factors take a kitten into a lazy old cat, all the while helping it to function normally.
The body and its cells are mostly made up of protein. The building blocks of proteins are substances called amino acids that in the form of enzymes and hormones literally control every chemical reaction within the cells. When these are modified, different messages are sent to a complex control system that can alter their function. There are twenty different kinds of amino acids that are essential to life. Twelve of these can be synthesized within the body however; eight must be supplied by the daily diet.
Age and health history can affect the risk of developing breast cancer.Anything that increases your chance of getting a disease is called a risk factor. Risk factors for breast cancer include the following:
Older age.
Menstruating at an early age.
Older age at first birth or never having given birth.
A personal history of breast cancer or benign (noncancer) breast disease.
A mother or sister with breast cancer.
Treatment with radiation therapy to the breast/chest.
Breast tissue that is dense on a mammogram.
Hormone use (such as estrogen and progesterone).
Drinking alcoholic beverages.
Being white. Breast cancer is sometimes caused by inherited gene mutations (changes). The genes in cells carry the hereditary information that is received from a person’s parents. Hereditary breast cancer makes up approximately 5% to 10% of all breast cancer. Some altered genes related to breast cancer are more common in certain ethnic groups.Women who have an altered gene related to breast cancer and who have had breast cancer in one breast have an increased risk of developing breast cancer in the other breast. These women also have an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer, and may have an increased risk of developing other cancers. Men who have an altered gene related to breast cancer also have an increased risk of developing this disease.Tests that examine the breasts are used to detect (find) and diagnose breast cancer.A doctor should be seen if changes in the breast are noticed. The following tests and procedures may be used:
Mammogram: An x-ray of the breast.
Biopsy: The removal of cells or tissues so they can be viewed under a microscope to check for signs of cancer. If a lump in the breast is found, the doctor may need to cut out a small piece of the lump. A pathologist views the tissue under a microscope to look for cancer cells. Four types of biopsies are as follows:
Excisional biopsy: The removal of an entire lump or suspicious tissue.
Incisional biopsy: The removal of part of a lump or suspicious tissue.
Core biopsy: The removal of part of a lump or suspicious tissue using a wide needle.
Needle biopsy or fine-needle aspiration biopsy: The removal of part of a lump, suspicious tissue, or fluid, using a thin needle.
Estrogen and progesterone receptor test: A test to measure the amount of estrogen and progesterone (hormones) receptors in cancer tissue. If cancer is found in the breast, tissue from the tumor is examined in the laboratory to find out whether estrogen and progesterone could affect the way cancer grows. The test results show whether hormone therapy may stop the cancer from growing. Certain factors affect prognosis (chance of recovery) and treatment options.The prognosis (chance of recovery) and treatment options depend on the following:
The stage of the cancer (whether it is in the breast only or has spread to lymph nodes or other places in the body).
The type of breast cancer.
Estrogen-receptor and progesterone-receptor levels in the tumor tissue.
A woman’s age, general health, and menopausal status (whether a woman is still having menstrual periods).
Whether the cancer has just been diagnosed or has recurred (come back). After breast cancer has been diagnosed, tests are done to find out if cancer cells have spread within the breast or to other parts of the body. The process used to find out whether the cancer has spread within the breast or to other parts of the body is called staging. The information gathered from the staging process determines the stage of the disease. It is important to know the stage in order to plan treatment.The following stages are used for breast cancer:Stage 0 (carcinoma in situ)There are 2 types of breast carcinoma in situ:
Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a noninvasive, precancerous condition in which abnormal cells are found in the lining of a breast duct. The abnormal cells have not spread outside the duct to other tissues in the breast. In some cases, DCIS may become invasive cancer and spread to other tissues, although it is not known at this time how to predict which lesions will become invasive.
Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) is a condition in which abnormal cells are found in the lobules of the breast. This condition seldom becomes invasive cancer; however, having lobular carcinoma in situ in one breast increases the risk of developing breast cancer in either breast. Stage IIn stage I, the tumor is 2 centimeters or smaller and has not spread outside the breast.Stage IIAIn stage IIA:
no tumor is found in the breast, but cancer is found in the axillary lymph nodes (the lymph nodes under the arm); or
the tumor is 2 centimeters or smaller and has spread to the axillary lymph nodes; or
the tumor is between 2 and 5 centimeters but has not spread to the axillary lymph nodes. Stage IIBIn stage IIB, the tumor is either:
between 2 and 5 centimeters and has spread to the axillary lymph nodes; or
larger than 5 centimeters but has not spread to the axillary lymph nodes. Stage IIIAIn stage IIIA:
no tumor is found in the breast, but cancer is found in axillary lymph nodes that are attached to each other or to other structures; or
the tumor is 5 centimeters or smaller and has spread to axillary lymph nodes that are attached to each other or to other structures; or
the tumor is larger than 5 centimeters and has spread to axillary lymph nodes that may or may not be attached to each other or to other structures. Stage IIIBIn stage IIIB, the cancer may be any size and:
has spread to tissues near the breast (the skin or chest wall, including the ribs and muscles in the chest); and
may have spread to lymph nodes within the breast or under the arm. Stage IIICIn stage IIIC, the cancer:
has spread to lymph nodes beneath the collarbone and near the neck; and
may have spread to lymph nodes within the breast or under the arm and to tissues near the breast. Stage IIIC breast cancer is divided into operable and inoperable stage IIIC. In operable stage IIIC, the cancer:
is found in 10 or more of the lymph nodes under the arm; or
is found in the lymph nodes beneath the collarbone and near the neck on the same side of the body as the breast with cancer; or
is found in lymph nodes within the breast itself and in lymph nodes under the arm. In inoperable stage IIIC breast cancer, the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes above the collarbone and near the neck on the same side of the body as the breast with cancer.Stage IVIn stage IV, the cancer has spread to other organs of the body, most often the bones, lungs, liver, or brain.Recurrent Breast Cancer Recurrent breast cancer is cancer that has recurred (come back) after it has been treated. The cancer may come back in the breast, in the chest wall, or in other parts of the body.There are different types of treatment for patients with breast cancer.Different types of treatment are available for patients with breast cancer. Some treatments are standard (the currently used treatment), and some are being tested in clinical trials. Before starting treatment, patients may want to think about taking part in a clinical trial. A treatment clinical trial is a research study meant to help improve current treatments or obtain information on new treatments for patients with cancer. When clinical trials show that a new treatment is better than the standard treatment, the new treatment may become the standard treatment. Four types of standard treatment are used:1. Surgery Most patients with breast cancer have surgery to remove the cancer from the breast. Some of the lymph nodes under the arm are usually taken out and looked at under a microscope to see if they contain cancer cells.Breast-conserving surgery, an operation to remove the cancer but not the breast itself, includes the following:
Lumpectomy: A surgical procedure to remove a tumor (lump) and a small amount of normal tissue around it.
Partial mastectomy: A surgical procedure to remove the part of the breast that contains cancer and some normal tissue around it. This procedure is also called a segmental mastectomy. Patients who are treated with breast-conserving surgery may also have some of the lymph nodes under the arm removed for biopsy. This procedure is called lymph node dissection. It may be done at the same time as the breast-conserving surgery or after. Lymph node dissection is done through a separate incision.Other types of surgery include the following:
Total mastectomy: A surgical procedure to remove the whole breast that contains cancer. This procedure is also called a simple mastectomy. Some of the lymph nodes under the arm may be removed for biopsy at the same time as the breast surgery or after. This is done through a separate incision.
Modified radical mastectomy: A surgical procedure to remove the whole breast that contains cancer, many of the lymph nodes under the arm, the lining over the chest muscles, and sometimes, part of the chest wall muscles.
Radical mastectomy: A surgical procedure to remove the breast that contains cancer, chest wall muscles under the breast, and all of the lymph nodes under the arm. This procedure is sometimes called a Halsted radical mastectomy. Even if the doctor removes all of the cancer that can be seen at the time of surgery, the patient may be given radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy after surgery to try to kill any cancer cells that may be left. Treatment given after surgery to increase the chances of a cure is called adjuvant therapy. If a patient is going to have a mastectomy, breast reconstruction (surgery to rebuild a breast’s shape after a mastectomy) may be considered. Breast reconstruction may be done at the time of the mastectomy or at a future time. The reconstructed breast may be made with the patient’s own (nonbreast) tissue or by using implants filled with saline or silicone gel. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has decided that breast implants filled with silicone gel may be used only in clinical trials. Before the decision to get an implant is made, patients can call the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiologic Health at 1-888-INFO-FDA (1-888-463-6332) for more information. 2. Radiation therapy Radiation therapy is a cancer treatment that uses high-energy x-rays or other types of radiation to kill cancer cells. There are two types of radiation therapy. External radiation therapy uses a machine outside the body to send radiation toward the cancer. Internal radiation therapy uses a radioactive substance sealed in needles, seeds, wires, or catheters that are placed directly into or near the cancer. The way the radiation therapy is given depends on the type and stage of the cancer being treated.3. Chemotherapy Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses drugs to stop the growth of cancer cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping the cells from dividing. When chemotherapy is taken by mouth or injected into a vein or muscle, the drugs enter the bloodstream and can reach cancer cells throughout the body (systemic chemotherapy). When chemotherapy is placed directly into the spinal column, an organ, or a body cavity such as the abdomen, the drugs mainly affect cancer cells in those areas (regional chemotherapy). The way the chemotherapy is given depends on the type and stage of the cancer being treated. Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) Treatment of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) may include the following:
Breast-conserving surgery with or without radiation therapy or hormone therapy.
Total mastectomy with or without hormone therapy.
Clinical trials testing breast-conserving surgery and hormone therapy with or without radiation therapy. Lobular Carcinoma In Situ (LCIS) Treatment of lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) may include the following:
Biopsy to diagnose the LCIS followed by regular examinations and regular mammograms to find any changes as early as possible. This is referred to as observation.
Tamoxifen to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.
Bilateral prophylactic mastectomy. This treatment choice is sometimes used in women who have a high risk of getting breast cancer. Most surgeons believe that this is a more aggressive treatment than is needed.
Clinical trials testing cancer prevention drugs. Treatment Options for Inflammatory Breast Cancer Treatment of inflammatory breast cancer may include the following:
Systemic chemotherapy.
Systemic chemotherapy followed by surgery (breast-conserving surgery or total mastectomy), with lymph node dissection followed by radiation therapy. Additional systemic therapy (chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or both) may be given.
Clinical trials testing new anticancer drugs, new drug combinations, and new ways of giving treatment. Treatment Options for Recurrent Breast Cancer Treatment of recurrent breast cancer (cancer that has come back after treatment) in the breast or chest wall may include the following:
Surgery (radical or modified radical mastectomy), radiation therapy, or both.
Systemic chemotherapy or hormone therapy. In the United States, a woman who lives to be 90 years old has a 1 in 8 risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer. With 215,990 cases expected, breast cancer will be the most frequently diagnosed nonskin malignancy in US women in 2004. In the same year, breast cancer will kill approximately 40,110 women, second only to lung cancer as a cause of cancer mortality in women. Breast cancer also occurs in men, and there will be about 1,450 new cases in 2004. Despite a prior long-term trend of gradually increasing breast cancer incidence, data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program show that from 1989 to 1992 there was a 5% decrease in breast cancer mortality. Diet and Vitamins A low-fat diet might influence breast cancer risk through hormonal mechanisms. Ecologic studies show a positive correlation between international age-adjusted breast cancer mortality rates and the estimated per capita consumption of dietary fat. When case-control studies have been used to evaluate the hypothesis that dietary fat is related to breast cancer risk, the results have been mixed. A pooled analysis of results from 7 cohort studies has addressed these issues and concluded that there is no evidence for an association between total dietary fat intake and breast cancer risk. Fruit and vegetable consumption (or specific fruits or vegetables) may be associated with reduced breast cancer risk. However, a pooled analysis of adult dietary data from 8 cohort studies, which included 351,823 women in whom 7,377 incident cases of breast cancer occurred, provides little support for an association. When examining the dietary data treated as continuous variables (based on grams of intake/day), there was no association. Comparing highest to lowest quartiles of intake, the pooled multivariate RRs of breast cancer were 0.93 (95% CI, 0.86-1.00) for total fruits, 0.96 (95% CI, 0.89-1.04) for total vegetables, and 0.93 (95% CI, 0.86-1.00) for total fruit and vegetables combined. Likewise, there was no statistically significant association between any of the specific fruits and vegetables examined and breast cancer risk. This analysis was subject to limitations common to attempts to combine dietary data across studies that have collected information using different food frequency questionnaires. However, it suggests that if there is any decreased risk of breast cancer associated with consumption of fruits and vegetables, the association is probably weak. Micronutrient intake may also play a role. Case-control studies show an inverse association between dietary beta-carotene intake and breast cancer risk. High intake of foods containing folate, beta-carotene, and vitamins A and C may also reverse the increased risk associated with alcohol use. In the Women’s Health Study, in which 39,876 women were assigned to take beta-carotene or placebo, cancer incidence was unaffected at 2 years.Fenretinide is a vitamin A analogue that has been shown to reduce breast carcinogenesis in preclinical studies. A phase III Italian trial compared the efficacy of a 5-year intervention with fenretinide versus no treatment in 2,972 women, aged 30 to 70 years, with surgically-removed stage I breast cancer or DCIS. At a median observation time of 97 months, there were no statistically significant differences in the occurrence of contralateral breast cancer (P=.642) or ipsilateral breast cancer (P=.177) between the 2 arms. There were no statistically significant differences between the 2 arms in tumors in other organs, incidence of distant metastases, and all-cause mortality.

Brain Cancer II

2007-11-01T10:04:00.001-07:00

http://www.apjohncancerinstitute.org/cancer/brain.htm

What are the side effects of treatment for brain cancer?
Cancer treatment often causes side effects. These side effects occur because treatment to destroy cancer cells damages some healthy cells as well.The side effects of cancer treatment vary. They depend on the type of treatment used and on the area being treated. Also, each person reacts differently. Attempts are made to plan the patient's therapy to keep side effects to a minimum. Patients are very carefully watched so that any problems which occur can be addressed.A craniotomy is a major operation. The surgery may damage normal brain tissue, and edema may occur. Weakness, coordination problems, personality changes, and difficulty in speaking and thinking can result. Patients can also have seizures. In fact, for a short time after surgery, symptoms may be worse than before. Most of the side effects of surgery lessen or disappear with time.Most of the side effects of radiation therapy go away soon after treatment is over. However, some side effects may occur or persist long after treatment is completed.Some patients have nausea for several hours after treatment. Patients receiving radiation therapy may become very tired as treatment continues. Resting is important, but doctors usually advise their patients to try to stay reasonably active. Radiation therapy to the scalp causes most patients to lose their hair. When it grows back, the new hair is sometimes softer and may be a slightly different color. In some cases, hair loss is permanent.Skin reactions in the treated area are common. The scalp and ears may be red, itchy, or dark. These areas may look and feel sunburned. The treated area should be exposed to the air as much as possible but should be protected from the sun. Patients should not wear anything on the head that might cause irritation. Good skin care is important at this time. The doctor may suggest certain kinds of soap or ointment, and patients should not use any other lotions or creams on the scalp without the doctor's advice.Sometimes, brain cells killed by radiation form a mass in the brain. The mass may look like a tumor and may cause similar symptoms, such as headaches, memory loss, or seizures. Doctors may suggest surgery or steroids to relieve these problems. About 4 to 8 weeks after radiation therapy, patients may become quite sleepy or lose their appetite. These symptoms may last several weeks, but they usually go away on their own. Still, patients should notify the doctor if they occur.Children who have had radiation therapy for a brain tumor may have learning problems or partial loss of eyesight. If the pituitary gland is damaged, children may not grow or develop normally. The side effects of chemotherapy depend on the drugs that are given. In general, anticancer drugs affect rapidly growing cells, such as blood cells that fight infection, cells that line the digestive tract, and cells in the hair follicles. As a result, patients may have a lowered resistance to infection, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, or mouth sores. Patients also may have less energy and lose their hair. These side effects usually go away gradually after treatment stops.Some anticancer drugs can cause infertility. Women taking certain anticancer drugs may have symptoms of menopause (hot flashes and vaginal dryness; periods may be irregular or stop). Some drugs used to treat children and teenagers may affect their ability to have children later in life.Certain drugs used in the treatment of brain tumors can cause kidney damage. Patients are given large amounts of fluid while taking these drugs. Patients also may have tingling in the fingers, ringing in the ears, or difficulty hearing. These problems may not clear up after treatment stops.Treatment with steroids to reduce swelling in the brain can cause increased appetite and weight gain. Swelling of the face and feet is common. Steroids can also cause restlessness, mood swings, burning indigestion, and acne. Patients should not stop using steroids or change their dose without consulting the doctor, however. The use of steroids must be stopped gradually to allow the body time to adjust.Loss of appetite can be a problem for patients during therapy. People may not feel hungry when they are uncomfortable or tired. Some of the common side effects of cancer treatment, such as nausea and vomiting, can also make it hard to eat. Yet, good nutrition is important because patients who eat well generally feel better and have more energy. In addition, they may be better able to withstand the side effects of treatment. Eating well means getting enough calories and protein to help prevent weight loss, regain strength, and rebuild normal tissues. Many patients find that eating several small meals and snacks during the day works better than trying to have three large meals.Patients being treated for a brain tumor may develop a blood clot and inflammation in a vein, most often in the leg. This is called thrombo-phlebitis. A patient who notices swelling in the leg, leg pain, or redness in the leg should notify the doctor right away. Doctors, nurses, and dietitians can explain the side effects of cancer treatment and can suggest ways to deal with them.
INTEGRATIVE THERAPY4. THE SCIENTIFICALLY FORMULATED AMINO ACID THERAPY
(Keep in mind, CAAT is much more than just a “diet”; it is an amino acid, carbohydrate, & glucose REDUCTION protocol which strategically uses the chemical reactions of amino acids, foods, and nutritional supplements to impair the development of cancer cells, thus starving them to death.) Clinical trials have already been done with humans using amino acid depravation formulas, and with much success. (Journal American Medical Association. 1967; 200:211)
CAAT is a course of therapy to control a patient’s amino acid intake. This is achieved by taking certain foods out of a persons’ daily food plan for a short time and by replacing them with a scientifically supported formula of amino acids. It is also important to emphasize that the food plan that accompanies the amino acid formula needs to be followed so not to offset any of the benefits we are creating by depriving the cancer cells the nutrients they need to grow. Also, it is important to realize that the patient does not need to abandon their conventional cancer treatment, (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormone treatments) nor is it recommended that they do so unless it has already failed them. CAAT works synergistically with chemotherapy and/or radiation to enhance their benefits (see study by Dr. Marco Rabinowitz of the National Cancer Institute). His report on amino acid deprivation, such as with Controlled Amino Acid Therapy (CAAT), proven to inhibit phosphofructokinase which shuts down the energy supply to cancer cells, simultaneously enhancing the benefits of chemotherapy while lessening their toxic side effects. CAAT has also proven to work successfully alone.
Phase 1: CAAT Formulation
The most important component of CAAT is the scientifically formulated amino acids. Based on the specific formula for each cancer, it consists of separate amino acids, citric acid, and small amounts of sodium benzoate. Each formula replaces most of the regular daily proteins found in meats, dairy, fish, beans and nuts, which cancer cells can derive their energy from. The CAAT formula taken two times per day will nourish the healthy cells while causing the cancer cells to starve to death. Of course each individual has specific needs concerning their diet, and this is explained in the second phase of the protocol as well as with a specialist at the Institute when beginning the CAAT therapy.
Phase 2: Daily Food Intake
DISCLAIMER: The following food program SHOULD NOT be consumed without the amino acid formula and without consent from your doctor and our Institute.
Breakfast:*1/2 Grapefruit or 1-orange or 6-ounces of fresh orange juice.Whey Enhanced Protein (Vanilla Flavor – Vitamin Shoppe Brand) approximately10 – 12 grams of protein – read label carefully, based on 150 lb. person ].A serving of Grits (Butter, cinnamon and other spices are okay).1 cup of green or black tea (Fructose is sweetener of choice).* Do Not have ½ grapefruit if taking Chemotherapy
Explanation: ½ Grapefruit or 1 orange or 6 ounces of fresh orange juice are rich in the natural nutrients called Limonene and Citric Acid. Limonene helps shut down the Ras cancer gene which is over active in 90 percent of all cancers. Citric Acid helps shut down glycolosis which in turn helps starve cancer cells to death.
Whey Enhanced Protein (Vanilla Flavor – Vitamin Shoppe Brand) Phosphorus is a nutrient that cancer cells must utilize in order to grow and reproduce. This brand of whey protein is very low in phosphorous and contains no additional vitamins, so when using approximately 10 – 12 grams of protein per 150 lb. person, it helps to protect normal cells, maintain a normal appetite, and also helps to fight edema. (Edema is the swelling or water build up in the legs or other sites in the body)Whey protein is included in the daily menu of all advanced or metastatic cancer patients. When treating cancers that are stable or have regressed in size, patients then have the option of including other protein foods at their breakfast meals such as cottage cheese, yogurt, or soy foods. Eggs are allowed in the diets of patients with lymphoma and brain cancers.
Grits or Cream of Wheat or 1 slice of white toast or ½ plain bagel or ½ English muffin (Butter is okay)Grits or white rice is the preferred carbohydrate food at each meal. The other choices are options once the patient’s cancer is stable or reduced in size. Unrefined carbohydrates are included in the CAAT menu instead of whole grains to deprive cancer cells of a certain B-complex vitamin called Pyridoxine (Vitamin B-6). Cancer cells require this vitamin to manufacture certain amino acids that we keep away from through CAAT’s amino acid reduction formula and diet. Grits is the preferred carbohydrate food at all meals instead of rice, corn, or pasta because it helps deplete Tryptophan in the body, which is essential for the growth and spreading of cancer cells.
1 cup of green or black tea, using fructose as the sweetener of choice. These teas are rich sources of several compounds that help shut down glycolosis and cut off the energy supply to cancer cells. Also, green or regular tea helps to prevent certain hormones and tumor growth factors from stimulating cancer cells to grow and metastasize to other parts of the body. Brassica teas can also be taken because they contain sulphorane, a nutrient that inhibits cancer growth, and also shuts down the cancer genes.* Why we use fructose as the sweetener of choice will be explained in detail at the end of this phase of the CAAT protocol.
Lunch:
Amino acid formula (4 level plastic scoops) mixed with any of the following: Water & Fructose; Sugar free Kool-Aid; Diet ginger ale; Fresh lemonade & Fructose; Chicken or Beef broth; V8 juice.Generous amounts of One cooked vegetable or a combination of the following: asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, brussell sprouts, spinach, squash, string beans.One serving (1/2 cup)of fresh fruit. Choice of: pear, orange, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries.1 serving (moderate) of grits or corn or rice or pasta (Add tomato sauce or butter)1 tablespoon of coconut oil8 to 10 black or green olives2 tablespoons of vinegar (minimum of 5% acidity) add to vegetables or food1 cup of green or black tea (Fructose as desired)
Explanation:
This Amino Acid Reduction Formula (4 level plastic scoops may vary) combined with the special diet, allows the CAAT Protocol to reduce certain amino acids in the daily diet of the cancer patient, and is designed to replace most of the animal protein in the diet. Cancer cells require the amino acids glycine, serine, glutamic acid, and aspartic acid to synthesize DNA, build new blood vessels or duplicate its entire contents of proteins. Also, cancer cells require these and certain other amino acids in order to synthesize other proteins that act as growth promoting hormones or tumor growth factors. CAAT impairs the synthesis of a protein called elastin, which is absolutely essential to the manufacture of new blood vessels. The Amino Acid Reduction Formula, diet, certain phytochemicals and herbs work efficaciously to attack cancer cells at each and every biological front.
The generous amounts of one cooked vegetable or a combination of such helps keep normal cells healthy. They are low in carbohydrates and proteins, and high in phytochemicals, compounds which help fight cancer. Patients are allowed to eat these vegetables and salads whenever desired.
The 8 to 10 olives are rich in squalene and oleic acid, nutrients that have been reported to inhibit certain cancer growth factors. The calories in olives also help control body weight and increases ketones in the blood. Ketones help fight cancer by impairing glycolosis – a process in which cancer cells depend almost exclusively upon for their daily supply of energy. Vinegar (and fructose) are two natural products that increase the production of both ACETIC ACID and CITRIC ACID in the body.
Acetic acid and citric acid also help fight cancer by shutting down the process of glycolosis.Normal cells derive most of their daily energy supply from acetic acid and citric acid, where as cancer cells derive most of their daily energy from glycolosis.
Dinner:
Amino acid formula (4 plastic level scoops) mixed with any of the following: Water & fructose; Sugar free Kool–Ade; Diet Ginger Ale; Fresh lemonade & Fructose; Chicken or Beef broth; V8 Juice.Generous amounts of One cooked vegetable or a combination of the following: asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, brussel sprouts, spinach, squash, string beans.One serving (1/2 cup) of stewed plums with fresh cream & fructose; use 4-ounces of orange juice if plums are not in season.Avacado salad with lettuce, tomatoes, celery, onions, with lemon juice and coconut oil or olive oil.2 tablespoons of vinegar (minimum of 5% acidity) add to vegetables or food.1 serving of grits or corn or pasta or rice (Add garlic and butter or tomato sauce)1 cup of green or black tea (Fructose as desired)
Mid Evening Snack: Ketogenic Cocktail – 2 ounces of fresh cream, ½ ounce each of both coconut & olive oil, 1 tablespoon of Fructose.Sugar free Jell-O with whipped cream & Fructose or 1 plum or 4 ounces of orange juice.
Explanation: The sugar free jell-o helps to appease the appetite. Plums contain quinlic acid, which is converted into benzoic acid in the body and which in turn helps to deplete the availability of the amino acid Glycine (Glycine is essential to the synthesis of DNA for cancer cells) and the proteins that cancer cells require to build new blood vessels and their tumor growth factors. If underweight take two ounces of light cream and one ounce of olive oil/coconut oil as needed to maintain weight.
Optional Meal:
3 to 4 ounces of Veal, Fish of choice, Beef, Chicken breast, and 1-slice of white bread.
Consume this meal with a minimum of 3 hours before or after taking the amino acids.
Explanation: If the patient is 10 or more pounds underweight or if their albumin levels are below normal is when the optional meal is allowed. This meal should be eaten a minimum of 3 hours before or after taking the amino acids. CAAT provides sufficient protein to maintain the health of normal cells and adequate amounts of calories to maintain desired body weight. Any proteins taken in excess of amounts recommended in the diet will counter act the benefits of the CAAT protocol.
Special Diets: A special diet will be created for any cancer patient whose ability to consume food and liquids has placed them in a critical situation. When a patient is using a feeding apparatus, or they have become too weak or lethargic to eat and drink the daily minimum amount for survival, we will break up the total breakfast, lunch, and dinner over a period of every 2 hours during the entire day until the patient is capable of returning to a daily diet as outlined above.
Carbohydrate and glucose reduction in this diet: CAAT’S dietary menu provides approximately 20 percent of its calories in the form of carbohydrates. Calories need not be a focal point or counted daily. It is recommended that all patients combat their cancers by keeping their body weight at normal or slightly below normal levels. A patient’s desired body weight is regulated by their rate of metabolism, which in turn is regulated by their blood levels of thyroxine, cortisone, insulin, and the amounts of fats and oils in the diet. Studies with human cancer patients and laboratory animals show that reducing the calories of carbohydrates (glucose) in their daily diet by only 10 percent reduced the size of cancerous tumors. When carbohydrate (glucose) calories were reduced 40 percent, the cancers disappeared. It is recommended that those patients who are obese gradually and systematically lose their excess weight to increase the efficiency of the CAAT protocol. Those patients who are underweight shoudn’t gain weight unless they are more than 10 pounds below normal levels. When a patient is underweight due to anorexia or cachexia, such illnesses must be addressed before the CAAT protocol can begin.
Why we use Fructose and Vinegar to treat cancer:
Nobel Prize winner Dr. Otto Warburg discovered more than 50 years ago that all cancer cells produce inordinate amount of lactic acid but he couldn’t explain why.
In 2001 our Institute published the first study to show that cancer cells produce excess amounts of lactic acid because they could not access the oxygen in compartments in the cells called the mitochondria. This provided evidence that cancer cells depend almost exclusively upon glycolosis or the metabolism of glucose as their major source of energy.
Dr. Spitz and Dr. Lee with other cancer researchers published studies showing that when cancer cells are deprived glucose, their energy supply is cut off which causes these cancer cells to commit suicide.
Therefore shutting down glycolosis would be one means of destroying cancer cells because energy can only be derived from glucose through the metabolic process called glycolosis.
Recently our Cancer Institute discovered that both acetic acid and citric acid could inhibit the activity of a key enzyme in glycolosis called phosphofructokinase, which in turn shuts down the process of glycolosis. Our cancer Institute is the first to introduce both fructose and vinegar as treatments for cancer because they either contain or produce acetic acid.
In conclusion, fructose and vinegar are added as supplements to the CAAT protocol because of their acetic acid properties that help shut down glycolosis, shutting off cancer cells energy supply and causing them to die off.
Phase 3: Nutritional Supplements
Nutritional supplements are based on each unique situation. For example, slow growing cancers produce low levels of toxic free radicals. Tumor cells that grow aggressively produce large amounts of toxic free radicals. The patient will be instructed whether or not to take anti-oxidants (in a nutritional supplement) and at what dosage, according to the levels of toxic free radicals produced in the cancerous cells.
An example of how nutritional supplements can help manipulate cancer cells involves vitamin B-6 (pyroxidine) There are four amino acids essential to the synthesis of DNA. However, those amino acids cannot be synthesized without a certain enzyme, which includes vitamin B-6 among other components. Any supplement containing vitamin B-6 SHOULD NOT be taken during the first 2 months of the CAAT protocol.
The patient will be instructed as to which nutritional supplements or phytochemicals should be purchased and at what dosage strength. Keep in mind that each supplement only complements the CAAT protocol. However, when they are combined they augment the therapeutic benefits of the aminoacid, carbohydrate, and glucose reduction diet.
Parsley: Contains ingredients that can help shut down certain enzymes called Epithelial Growth Factors, which stimulate the growth and spread of cancer. ( CAAT’S amino acid reduction diet works in the same manner )
Vitamin D: Helps activate in many kinds of cancers enzymes called Phosphotases, which literally shut down the activities of other enzymes called Kinases, which are essential to the growth and reproduction of cancer cells.
Green Tea Extract: Phytochemicals in tea help shut down glycolosis (cancer cell’s main supplier of energy) and thereby help to starve cancer cells to death. These effects help complement the effects of CAAT’S carbohydrate reduction.
Anti-Oxidants: The controversy as to whether or not to treat cancer with anti-oxidants is slowly resolving with the current understanding of how they affect the activity of genes and enzymes in cancer cells. The prevailing data shows that the benefits or lack of benefits depend upon the oxidative state the cancer cells are in. Anti-oxidants taken when the cells are in a very high oxidative state may prevent cancer cells from entering apoptosis ( apoptosis is when a cancer cell commits suicide) When oxidative stress in cancer cells is only slightly above normal, anti-oxidants are then expected to stop their growth and reproduction.
Blood Chemistry: Blood tests are usually taken every 6 to 8 weeks, depending upon the results of each test. Not only is it important to monitor the tumor markers but equally important to keep abreast of the overall health of normal tissues and organs. For example, it is important to learn of the health of the kidneys and liver, whether the body is producing sufficient red and white blood cells, etc. Low albumin levels most often indicate insufficient intake of proteins in the diet and this problem would have to be addressed. CAAT is designed to attack cancer but keep the normal cells and tissues functioning harmoniously.
Whey Protein: This protein food is recommended at the breakfast meal to help meet the daily needs of amino acids for the normal cells of the body, and to help keep albumin levels normal and to help prevent edema. We recommend Whey protein purchased from the Vitamin Shoppe because it is the only brand that we have seen with no phosphorous or additional vitamins added to it.
Grits: Grits are also recommended at the breakfast meal in place of whole grains because it is low in vitamin B-6. Cancer cells require B-6 to manufacture the amino acid Glycine, which is required for DNA synthesis. Grits, instead of whole grains, therefore helps prevent cancer cells from manufacturing DNA and building new blood vessels.
Calcium D-Glucurate: This phytochemical helps the body to retain a compound called Glucuronic acid. This is necessary to eliminate both estrogen and testosterone from the body. This is why Calcium D-Glucurate is added to the regiments of patients with breast & prostate cancers. Calcium D-Glucurate is not to be confused with calcium carbonate, which is nothing more than a calcium supplement.
D-Limonene: This phytochemical found mostly in citrus fruits blocks the process called Isoprenylation, which is necessary for tumor growth factors such as the RAS gene, Epithelial Growth factor, Tyrosine Kinase, and Insulin-Like-Growth-factor, to send their signals into the nucleus of a cancer cell and directs them to grow and divide into more cancer cells.
Tocotrienols: This member of the Vitamin E family also helps shut down Isoprenylation and assists D-Limonene in blocking the actions of the various tumor growth factors. More specifically, tocotrienols shut down an enzyme called HMG-2, which is essential to the synthesis of the building blocks that form the Isoprenylation process.
Niacin: This B-Complex vitamin works with D-limonene and the Tocotrienols to shut down the process of Isoprenylation, which as mentioned above prevents the cancer promoting RAS genes from sending signals into the nucleus of the cell. Niacin also helps deplete thee amino acid Glycine, which cancer cells need to synthesize DNA. And by reducing cholesterole in the body, Niacin helps lower the production of estrogen and testosterone.
Choline: This B-complex vitamin is included in our supplement list to help the liver metabolize Niacin and other compounds and to help fight fatigue that accompanies most forms of cancer.
Selenium: Numerous studies show that this mineral can interfere with the activity of certain genes that promote the growth of cancer and to induce cancer cells to commit suicide (apoptosis)
Perilla Oil: This oil is rich in Alpha Linolenic Acid which can inhibit the growth of cancer cells in several ways. One way is to inhibit the synthesis in the body of a tumor growth promotin hormone called Prostaglandin-2, also, Alpha Linolenic Acid inhibits the actions of certain genes that promote the growth of cancer cells. Linolenic acid is not to be confused with linoleic acid, which is a bad fat that stimulates the growth of cancer cells. This bad fat, linoleic acid, is found in all vegetable oils and nuts (With the exception of coconut oil). Olive oil has the least amount of this bad fat.
Super Miraforte: This herb impairs the synthesis of estrogen from testosterone in the body and is included in the regiments of women with breast cancer.Licorice Root Extract & Pantothenic Acid: This herb and vitamin are added to the regiment when it is desirable to produce steroid like actions in the body. Also used to help patient’s gain weight and to inhibit the growth of lymphomas and leukemia’s.
Resveratrol: This phytochemical blocks the actions of a number of a number of cancer promoting genes thereby causing cancer cells to enter into apoptosis (cell death) and is included in the treatment of all cancers.
Indole-3 Carbinol & D.I.M.: These two phytochemicals block the actions of both estrogen and testosterone and are included in the regiments of both breast and prostate gland cancer.
Melatonin: Numerous studies show that this hormone blocks the synthesis of the cancer promoting chemicals in the body called Leukotrienes, and is included in the treatment of all cancers.
Artho Pro System: This combination of herbs and phytochemicals inhibits the synthesis of the cancer promoting hormone called Prostaglandin-2 and the Leukotriens and replaces the drug celebrex when liver problems are present. The Prostaglandin hormone is over active in most cancers and stimulates cancer growth. The body manufactures the Prostaglandin hormone from the bad fat, Linoleic acid, mentioned above.
Licorice Root Extract & Pantothenic Acid: This HERB and VITAMIN are added to the regiment when it is desirable to produce steroid like actions in the body. Used also to help patients gain weight and ti inhibit the growth of Lymphomas and Leukemias.

Brain Cancer I

2007-11-01T09:59:00.000-07:00

http://www.apjohncancerinstitute.org/cancer/brain.htm

What is Brain Cancer?
The brain and spinal column make up the central nervous system (CNS), where all vital functions of the body are controlled. When tumors arise in the central nervous system, they are especially problematic because a persons thought processes and movements can be affected. These tumors can also be difficult to treat because the tissues surrounding a tumor that may be affected by surgery or radiation may play a vital role in functioning.
There are two broad types of cancers occurring within this system. Primary tumors originate in the central nervous system, whereas secondary tumors migrate from cancers located elsewhere in the body, such as breast cancers. Secondary, or metastatic, brain tumors, are more common than primary brain cancers. This section focuses on primary brain cancers.What is the brain?
Together, the brain and spinal cord form the central nervous system. This complex system is part of everything we do. It controls the things we choose to do,like walk and talk,and the things our body does automatically,like breathe and digest food. The central nervous system is also involved with our senses; seeing, hearing, touching, tasting, and smelling, as well as our emotions, thoughts, and memory.The brain is a soft, spongy mass of nerve cells and supportive tissue. It has three major parts: the cerebrum, the cerebellum, and the brain stem. The parts work together, but each has special functions.
The brain is composed of:
A. The cerebrum, which is divided into two cerebral hemispheres. The cerebrum is the largest part of the brain and is divided into lobes where discrete functions occur. Higher reasoning takes place in the cerebrum.
B. The cerebellum, or little brain, located beneath the cerebrum. The cerebellum controls coordination and balance.
C. The brain stem, which is the lowest portion of the brain and connects to the spinal cord, controls involuntary functions essential for life, such as the beating of the heart and breathing.
D. The meninges, membranes that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. There are three meninges.
The types of primary brain cancers are classified according to the type of cells from which they originate. Oncologists describe the tumor based on its characteristics. For example, a noninfiltrating tumor can be expected to grow slowly and not invade surrounding structures. A well-differentiated tumor is also slow growing, but has the potential to be invasive. Anaplastic tumors are generally more aggressive.
Gliomas - Most brain tumors are gliomas, which originate in the glial cells (the supportive cells of the nervous system). Gliomas can be described as low-grade (slow-growing); intermediate-grade (more aggressive); or high-grade (very aggressive).
There are many different types of gliomas:
E. Astrocytoma, the most common type of glioma, which usually begin in cells called astrocytes within the cerebrum, or the cerebellum. Glioblastoma multiforme is a form of very aggressive astrocytoma.
F. Oligodendroglioma, a tumor that develops from oligodendrocytes. These cells are responsible for producing the myelin that surrounds nerves.
G. Brain stem glioma, which begins in the glial cells in the brain stem.
H. Ependymoma, which begins in the ependyma, the cells that line the passageways in the brain where cerebrospinal fluid is made and stored.
I. Mixed tumors, which are composed of more than one of the glial cell types.
Nonglial tumors include:
J. Acoustic schwannoma, which occurs in the vestibular nerve.
K. Craniopharyngioma, which begins near the pituitary gland.
L. Meningiomas, which originate in the meninges surrounding the brain and spinal column. Even though these tumors are generally benign, they may cause significant symptoms as they grow and press on the brain or spinal cord.
M. Medulloblastoma, which arises from granular cells in the cerebellum.
N. Primary CNS lymphoma.
O. The pineal and pituitary glands, located near the base of the brain, can also be the source of tumors.
Since brain and spinal cord tumors behave somewhat differently than tumors arising in other parts of the body, they are often referred to as low and high grade, rather than benign and malignant. Oncologists assign the terms low, intermediate, or high grade to a patient’s tumor based on parameters that predict how quickly the tumor can grow and its potential to spread to other parts of the brain.
Treating brain and spinal cord tumors can be difficult. The blood-brain barrier, which normally serves to protect the brain and spinal cord from damaging chemicals getting into those structures, also keeps out many types of potentially beneficial chemotherapy drugs. Surgery can be difficult if the tumor is near a delicate portion of the brain or spinal cord and radiation therapy can damage healthy tissue. However, research in the past two decades has improved the survival rates of patients with brain tumors. More refined surgeries, a better understanding of what types of tumors respond to chemotherapy, and precise delivery of radiation have resulted in longer life span and better quality of life for people with brain cancers.
As we well know, there are many kinds of cancer; unfortunately they all come about because of the out-of-control growth of abnormal cells.
Healthy Cells vs. Cancer Cells
Healthy cells are like a cat. They need structure to determine the size of bones and shape of the body, tail and whiskers. The DNA in genes and chromosomes determine this. They need energy to play and prowl and sustain life. This is derived from chemicals in food. Cats need a system to deliver chemicals (food nutrients like amino acids, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals) to all parts of their body. These are the blood vessels. Growth factors take a kitten into a lazy old cat, all the while helping it to function normally.
The body and its cells are mostly made up of protein. The building blocks of proteins are substances called amino acids that in the form of enzymes and hormones literally control every chemical reaction within the cells. When these are modified, different messages are sent to a complex control system that can alter their function. There are twenty different kinds of amino acids that are essential to life. Twelve of these can be synthesized within the body however; eight must be supplied by the daily diet
What causes brain tumors?
The causes of brain tumors are not known. Researchers are trying to solve this problem. The more they can find out about the causes of brain tumors, the better the chances of finding ways to prevent them.Doctors cannot explain why one person gets a brain tumor and another doesn't, but they do know that no one can "catch" a brain tumor from another person. Brain tumors are not contagious.Although brain tumors can occur at any age, studies show that they are most common in two age groups. The first group is children 3 to 12 years old; the second is adults 40 to 70 years old.By studying large numbers of patients, researchers have found certain risk factors that increase a person's chance of developing a brain tumor. People with these risk factors have a higher-than-average risk of getting a brain tumor. For example, studies show that some types of brain tumors are more frequent among workers in certain industries, such as oil refining, rubber manufacturing, and drug manufacturing. Other studies have shown that chemists and embalmers have a higher incidence of brain tumors. Researchers also are looking at exposure to viruses as a possible cause. Because brain tumors sometimes occur in several members of the same family, researchers are studying families with a history of brain tumors to see whether heredity is a cause. At this time, scientists do not believe that head injuries cause brain tumors to develop.In most cases, patients with a brain tumor have no clear risk factors. The disease is probably the result of several factors acting together.What are primary brain tumors?
Tumors that begin in the brain tissue are known as primary brain tumors. Secondary tumors are those that develop when cancer spreads to the brain. Primary brain tumors are classified by the type of tissue in which they begin. The most common brain tumors are gliomas, which begin in the glial (supportive) tissue. There are several types of gliomas:Astrocytomas arise from small, star-shaped cells called astrocytes. They may grow anywhere in the brain or spinal cord. In adults, astrocytomas most often arise in the cerebrum. In children, they occur in the brain stem, the cerebrum, and the cerebellum. A grade III astrocytoma is sometimes called anaplastic astrocytoma. A grade IV astrocytoma is usually called glioblastoma multiforme.Brain stem gliomas occur in the lowest, stemlike part of the brain. The brain stem controls many vital functions. Tumors in this area generally cannot be removed. Most brain stem gliomas are high-grade astrocytomas.Ependymomas usually develop in the lining of the ventricles. They also may occur in the spinal cord. Although these tumors can develop at any age, they are most common in childhood and adolescence. Oligodendrogliomas arise in the cells that produce myelin, the fatty covering that protects nerves. These tumors usually arise in the cerebrum. They grow slowly and usually do not spread into surrounding brain tissue. Oligodendrogliomas are rare. They occur most often in middle- aged adults but have been found in people of all ages.There are other types of brain tumors that do not begin in glial tissue. Some of the most common are described below:
Medulloblastomas were once thought to develop from glial cells. However, recent research suggests that these tumors develop from primitive (developing) nerve cells that normally do not remain in the body after birth. For this reason, medulloblastomas are sometimes called primitive neuroectodermal tumors (PNET). Most medulloblastomas arise in the cerebellum; however, they may occur in other areas as well. These tumors occur most often in children and are more common in boys than in girls.
Meningiomas grow from the meninges. They are usually benign. Because these tumors grow very slowly, the brain may be able to adjust to their presence; meningiomas often grow quite large before they cause symptoms. They occur most often in women between 30 and 50 years of age.
Schwannomas are benign tumors that begin in Schwann cells, which produce the myelin that protects the acoustic nerve, the nerve of hearing. Acoustic neuromas are a type of schwannoma. They occur mainly in adults. These tumors affect women twice as often as men.
Craniopharyngiomas develop in the region of the pituitary gland near the hypothalamus. They are usually benign; however, they are sometimes considered malignant because they can press on or damage the hypothalamus and affect vital functions. These tumors occur most often in children and adolescents.
Germ cell tumors arise from primitive (developing) sex cells, or germ cells. The most frequent type of germ cell tumor in the brain is the germinoma.
Pineal region tumors occur in or around the pineal gland, a tiny organ near the center of the brain. The tumor can be slow growing (pineocytoma) or fast growing (pineoblastoma). The pineal region is very difficult to reach, and these tumors often cannot be removed.
What are secondary brain tumors?
Metastasis is the spread of cancer. Cancer that begins in other parts of the body may spread to the brain and cause secondary tumors. These tumors are not the same as primary brain tumors. Cancer that spreads to the brain is the same disease and has the same name as the original (primary) cancer. For example, if lung cancer spreads to the brain, the disease is called metastatic lung cancer because the cells in the secondary tumor resemble abnormal lung cells, not abnormal brain cells.Treatment for secondary brain tumors depends on where the cancer started and the extent of the spread, as well as other factors, including the patient's age, general health, and response to previous treatment.What are adult brain tumors? Adult brain tumors are diseases in which cancer (malignant) cells begin to grow in the tissues of the brain. The brain controls memory and learning, senses (hearing, sight, smell, taste, and touch), and emotion. It also controls other parts of the body, including muscles, organs, and blood vessels. Tumors that start in the brain are called primary brain tumors. What are metastatic brain tumors? Often, tumors found in the brain have started somewhere else in the body and spread (metastasized) to the brain. These are called metastatic brain tumors.What are the symptoms of an adult brain tumor? A doctor should be seen if the following symptoms appear:
Frequent headaches.
Vomiting.
Loss of appetite.
Changes in mood and personality.
Changes in ability to think and learn.
Seizures.What is the treatment for brain tumors?
Treatment for a brain tumor depends on a number of factors. Among these are the type, location, and size of the tumor, as well as the patient's age and general health. Treatment methods and schedules often vary for children and adults. A treatment plan is developed to fit each patient's needs.The patient's doctor may want to discuss the case with other doctors who treat brain tumors. Also, the patient may want to talk with the doctor about taking part in a research study of new treatment methods. Such studies are called clinical trials.Many patients want to learn all they can about their disease and their treatment choices so they can take an active part in decisions about their medical care. A person with a brain tumor will have many questions, and the doctor is the best person to answer them. Most patients want to know what kind of tumor they have, how it can be treated, how effective the treatment is likely to be, and how much it is likely to cost.Many people find it helpful to make a list of their questions before they see the doctor. Taking notes can make it easier to remember what the doctor says. Some patients also find that it helps to have a family member or friend with them when they talk with the doctor,either to take part in the discussion or just to listen.Patients and their families have a lot to learn about brain tumors and their treatment. They should not feel that they need to understand everything the first time they hear it. They will have other chances to ask the doctor to explain things that are not clear. What tests are used to find and diagnose adult brain tumors? Tests that examine the brain and spinal cord are used to detect (find) adult brain tumor. The following tests and procedures may be used:
CT scan (CAT scan): A procedure that makes a series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body, taken from different angles. The pictures are made by a computer linked to an x-ray machine. A dye may be injected into a vein or swallowed to help the organs or tissues show up more clearly. This procedure is also called computed tomography, computerized tomography, or computerized axial tomography.
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging): A procedure that uses a magnet, radio waves, and a computer to make a series of detailed pictures of the brain and spinal cord. A substance called gadolinium is injected into the patient through a vein. The gadolinium collects around the cancer cells so they show up brighter in the picture. This procedure is also called nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMRI).Adult brain tumor is diagnosed and removed in surgery. If a brain tumor is suspected, a biopsy is done by removing part of the skull and using a needle to remove a sample of the brain tissue. A pathologist views the tissue under a microscope to look for cancer cells. If cancer cells are found, the doctor will remove as much tumor as safely possible during the same surgery. An MRI may then be done to determine if any cancer cells remain after surgery. Tests are also done to find out the grade of the tumor.What is the grade of a tumor?
The grade of a tumor refers to how abnormal the cancer cells look under a microscope and how quickly the tumor is likely to grow and spread. The pathologist determines the grade of the tumor using tissue removed for biopsy. The following grading system may be used for adult brain tumors: Grade IThe tumor grows slowly, has cells that look similar to normal cells, and rarely spreads into nearby tissues. It may be possible to remove the entire tumor by surgery.Grade IIThe tumor grows slowly, but may spread into nearby tissue and may become a higher-grade tumor.Grade IIIThe tumor grows quickly, is likely to spread into nearby tissue, and the tumor cells look very different from normal cells.Grade IVThe tumor grows very aggressively, has cells that look very different from normal cells, and is difficult to treat successfully. The chance of recovery (prognosis) and choice of treatment depend on the type, grade, and location of the tumor and whether cancer cells remain after surgery and/or have spread to other parts of the brain. How are adult brain tumors treated? Different types of treatment are available for patients with adult brain tumor. Some treatments are standard (the currently used treatment), and some are being tested in clinical trials. Before starting treatment, patients may want to think about taking part in a clinical trial. A treatment clinical trial is a research study meant to help improve current treatments or obtain information on new treatments for patients with cancer. When clinical trials show that a new treatment is better than the standard treatment, the new treatment may become the standard treatment.
Three types of standard treatment are used. 1. Surgery Surgery is used, when possible, to treat adult brain tumor2. Radiation therapy Radiation therapy is a cancer treatment that uses high-energy x-rays or other types of radiation to kill cancer cells. There are two types of radiation therapy. External radiation therapy uses a machine outside the body to send radiation toward the cancer. Internal radiation therapy uses a radioactive substance sealed in needles, seeds, wires, or catheters that are placed directly into or near the cancer. The way the radiation therapy is given depends on the type and stage of the cancer being treated.3. Chemotherapy Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses drugs to stop the growth of cancer cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping the cells from dividing. When chemotherapy is taken by mouth or injected into a vein or muscle, the drugs enter the bloodstream and can reach cancer cells throughout the body (systemic chemotherapy). When chemotherapy is placed directly into the spinal column, an organ, or a body cavity such as the abdomen, the drugs mainly affect cancer cells in those areas (regional chemotherapy). A dissolving wafer may be used to deliver an anticancer drug directly into the brain tumor site after the tumor has been removed by surgery. The way the chemotherapy is given depends on the type and stage of the cancer being treated.
How metastatic brain tumors are treated? Tumors that have spread to the brain from somewhere else in the body are usually treated with radiation therapy and/or surgery. Chemotherapy may be used if the primary tumor is the kind that responds well to chemotherapy. Clinical trials are under way to study new treatments. Brain Stem Gliomas Treatment of brain stem gliomas may include the following:
Hyperfractionated radiation therapy.
A clinical trial of new anticancer drugs and/or biologic therapy.Pineal Astrocytic Tumors Treatment of pineal astrocytic tumors may include the following:]
Surgery and radiation therapy, with or without chemotherapy.
A clinical trial of external radiation therapy plus hyperthermia therapy or new methods of delivering radiation therapy.
A clinical trial of new anticancer drugs and biologic therapy following radiation therapy.] Pilocytic Astrocytomas Treatment of pilocytic astrocytoma is usually surgery with or without radiation therapy.Diffuse Astrocytomas Treatment of diffuse astrocytoma may include the following:
Surgery, usually with radiation therapy.
A clinical trial of surgery and radiation therapy with or without chemotherapy for tumors that cannot be completely removed by surgery.
A clinical trial of radiation therapy delayed until the tumor progresses.
A clinical trial comparing high-dose and low-dose radiation therapy.Anaplastic Astrocytomas Treatment of anaplastic astrocytoma may include the following:
Surgery plus radiation therapy, with or without chemotherapy.
A clinical trial of external radiation therapy plus hyperthermia therapy or new methods of delivering radiation therapy.
A clinical trial of new anticancer drugs and biologic therapy following radiation therapy.
A clinical trial of chemotherapy combined with different methods of delivering radiation therapy.Glioblastoma Treatment of glioblastoma may include the following:
Surgery plus radiation therapy, with or without chemotherapy.
A clinical trial of chemotherapy placed into the brain during surgery.
A clinical trial of radiation and concurrent chemotherapy.
A clinical trial of external radiation therapy plus hyperthermia therapy or new methods of delivering radiation therapy.
A clinical trial of new anticancer drugs and biologic therapy following radiation therapy.
A clinical trial of chemotherapy and new methods of delivering radiation therapy.
Clinical trials of new treatments. Oligodendroglial Tumors Treatment of oligodendrogliomas may include the following:
Surgery, usually with radiation therapy.
A clinical trial of surgery and radiation therapy with or without chemotherapy for tumors that cannot be completely removed by surgery.Treatment of anaplastic oligodendroglioma may include the following:
Surgery plus radiation therapy with or without chemotherapy.
A clinical trial of external radiation therapy plus hyperthermia therapy or new methods of delivering radiation therapy.
A clinical trial of new anticancer drugs and biologic therapy following radiation therapy.Mixed Gliomas Treatment of mixed gliomas may include the following:
Surgery plus radiation therapy with or without chemotherapy.
A clinical trial of external radiation therapy plus hyperthermia therapy or new methods of delivering radiation therapy.
A clinical trial of new anticancer drugs or biologic therapy following radiation therapy.Ependymal Tumors Treatment of grade I and grade II ependymomas is usually surgery with or without radiation therapy.Treatment of anaplastic ependymoma may include the following:
Surgery plus radiation therapy.
A clinical trial of surgery followed by chemotherapy before, during, and after radiation therapy.
A clinical trial of chemotherapy and/or biologic therapy. Medulloblastoma Treatment of medulloblastomas may include the following:
Surgery plus radiation therapy to the brain and spine.
A clinical trial of surgery and radiation therapy to the brain and spine for tumors that are more difficult to treat successfully.
A clinical trial of chemotherapy.Pineal Parenchymal Tumors Treatment of pineal parenchymal tumors may include the following:
Surgery plus radiation therapy with or without chemotherapy.
A clinical trial of external radiation therapy plus hyperthermia therapy or new methods of delivering radiation therapy.
A clinical trial of new anticancer drugs and biologic therapy following radiation therapy.Meningeal Tumors Treatment of meningiomas may include the following:
Surgery with or without radiation therapy.
Radiation therapy for tumors that cannot be removed by surgery. Treatment of malignant meningioma may include the following:
Surgery plus radiation therapy.
A clinical trial of external radiation therapy plus hyperthermia therapy or new methods of delivering radiation therapy.
A clinical trial of new anticancer drugs and/or biologic therapy following radiation therapy.Germ Cell Tumors Treatment of central nervous system germ cell tumors depends on the type of cancer cells, the location of the tumor, whether the cancer can be removed in an operation, and other factors. Craniopharyngioma Treatment of craniopharyngiomas may include the following:
Surgery to remove the entire tumor.
Surgery to remove as much of the tumor as possible, followed by radiation therapy.Recurrent Adult Brain Tumor Treatment of recurrent adult brain tumors may include the following:
Surgery with or without chemotherapy.
Radiation therapy, if not used during previous treatment, with or without chemotherapy.
Internal radiation therapy.
Chemotherapy.
A clinical trial of new anticancer drugs.
A clinical trial of chemotherapy placed into the brain during surgery.
A clinical trial of biologic therapy. Metastatic Brain Tumors Treatment of a single metastatic brain tumor is usually surgery followed by radiation therapy to the brain.Treatment of more than one metastatic brain tumor may include the following:
Radiation therapy to the brain.
Surgery, for large tumors that are pressing on areas of the brain and causing symptoms.

Tasigna Approved for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia

2007-10-31T09:16:00.000-07:00

By: Scott Roberts

MONDAY, Oct. 29 (HealthDay News) -- Tasigna (nilotinib) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) in people who are resistant or intolerant to other therapies, maker Novartis AG said Monday.

CML, among the most common forms of leukemia, affects about 4,500 people in the United States each year. Some have become resistant to or cannot tolerate a standard therapy for CML, Gleevec.
Tasigna, taken twice daily, targets a protein that is produced only by cells that have an abnormal chromosome in people with Philadelphia chromosome-positive CML, Novartis said in a statement. The protein is a key cause of the over-production of the white blood cells that characterizes this form of CML.
Reported side effects of the drug include rash, nausea, fatigue, headache, constipation, diarrhea, and vomiting. Users should avoid food two hours before and one hour after taking Tasigna, Novartis said.

Smoking Does Not Worsen Breast Cancer

2007-10-31T09:14:00.000-07:00

By Madeline Vann

MONDAY, Oct. 29 (HealthDay News) -- It may be unhealthy in many other ways, but smoking does not appear to raise the odds that a woman with breast cancer will have more aggressive or later-stage malignancy at the time of diagnosis, researchers report
Their results come from an analysis of data gathered on more than 6,000 women for more than 35 years.
"Smoking did not affect treatment options either," noted lead researcher Dr. Matthew Abramowitz, a resident in radiation oncology at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia.
Abramowitz said he had expected to find that smokers were less likely to have surgeries, such as mastectomies, because of the physical health problems associated with smoking, but the data showed otherwise. Women with breast cancer who smoked or had ever smoked were just as likely to have surgery as those who did not smoke.
About one in 10 of the breast cancer patients was a smoker when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, Abramowitz said.
The findings were expected to be presented Sunday at the annual meeting of the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, in Los Angeles.
Smoking has been shown to be a risk factor for cancers of the lung, head, neck, esophagus and bladder. However, studies testing for a possible link between smoking and breast cancer risk have been inconclusive.
"This study says nothing about the rate of breast cancer or whether women are more likely to get breast cancer if they smoke. But it's interesting that smoking did not affect the cancer that we saw," said Abramowitz.
Despite the findings, women who smoke are still putting their health at great risk, stressed Dr. Michael J. Thun, vice president of epidemiology and surveillance research at the American Cancer Society.
"The study results don't change anything for women who smoke. They still have a one in two chance of being killed by smoking if they don't quit and a one in eight lifetime risk of developing breast cancer. More American women have died from lung cancer than breast cancer since 1987," Thun noted.
In fact, lung cancer remains the leading killer of both women and men. According to the American Cancer Society, about 70,880 U.S. women will die from lung cancer in 2007, compared to 40,460 who will succumb to breast cancer.
In their study, Abramowitz and his research team analyzed data from 6,162 breast cancer patients who were initially evaluated between 1970 and 2006 at the Fox Chase Cancer Center. The women were asked about their past and present smoking habits as part of the initial health interview. Almost half (45 percent) had ever smoked, although only 9 percent were smokers at the time of diagnosis.
The researchers found no statistically significant correlation between smoking and tumor stage or aggressiveness at the time the women were diagnosed.
There was a slight but statistically insignificant trend toward smokers having more Her2/Neu positive tumors than nonsmokers. Her2/Neu positive tumors are more aggressive and difficult to treat, said Abramowitz, although treatment options have improved in recent years.
The possible correlation between smoking and Her2/Neu tumors could not be explored due to the small number of patients who had undergone Her2/Neu screening, which was not available for the full 35 years of the study period. However, it's a potential avenue for future research, Abramowitz said.
His team also found no correlation between tumor stage at diagnosis and family history of breast cancer, use of hormone therapy or menopausal status. According to Abramowitz, the promotion of early screening for breast cancer during the study period might have had an effect on the stage of the tumors at diagnosis.
Still, too many women continue to put their health in jeopardy by smoking. "The major challenges are to help women who are addicted to nicotine quit smoking and to prevent adolescents from starting," emphasized Thun.
SOURCES: Matthew Abramowitz, M.D., radiation oncology resident, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pa.; Michael J. Thun, M.D., vice president, Epidemiology and Surveillance Research, American Cancer Society; Oct. 28, 2007, presentation, American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology annual meeting, Los Angeles

Precancerous Lesions Raise Cervical Cancer Risk

2007-10-30T08:50:00.000-07:00

By Steven Reinberg
HealthDay Reporter

FRIDAY, Oct. 26 (HealthDay News) -- Women who have had advanced precancerous lesions of the cervix are still at risk for invasive cancers up to 25 years later, Swedish researchers report.
Currently, the American Cancer Society recommends that women who have had precancerous lesions called severe dysplasia/carcinoma in situ (CIS) continue getting Pap tests for 10 years after treatment. But, based on this study, these guidelines may need to be changed, said Debbie Saslow, the society's director of breast and gynecologic cancer, who was not involved with the research.
Saslow added, however, that even though these women continue to be at risk for developing cervical or vaginal cancer, the risk is low. "Women who have been treated for advanced precancer do need to remain vigilant," she said.
"This paper is going in my file for when we update our guidelines in the next two years," Saslow added. "We will see if we want to stick with 10 years or go to a much wider interval."
The study was led by Dr. Bjorn Strander, a senior consultant with the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Sahlgren's Academy at the University of Gothenburg. The researchers collected data on 132,493 women who had a diagnosis of severe dysplasia/CIS between 1958 and 2002. The statistics came from the National Swedish Cancer Register.
The researchers found 881 women had developed cervical cancer, and 111 had developed vaginal cancer more than one year after the initial diagnosis. This was almost seven times higher than expected, the researchers said.
Women with a diagnosis of severe dysplasia/CIS were more than twice as likely to develop cancer compared with the general female population. The women were also twice as likely to develop invasive cervical cancer after diagnosis of CIS if that diagnosis was made between 1991 and 2000, compared with the same diagnosis made from 1958 to 1970. This increased risk might be due to changes in treatment over that period, particularly because fewer hysterectomies are being done as part of treatment for CIS, the study authors said.
Strander's team also found a particularly high risk for women over age 50, and this risk continued to increase with age. "The risk after treatment hardly decreases at all after treatment and is still sustained after more than 25 years," he said.
"While well-screened women after 50 to 60 years of age are very well protected from cervical cancer and have little, if any, further use of screening, this does not apply to women who have been treated for grade 3 CIS," Strander said. "They need, and should have, long-term follow-up, perhaps lifelong," he said.
The results are published in the Oct. 26 edition of the British Medical Journal

What Women Don't Know About Cancer

2007-10-30T08:49:00.002-07:00

By Salynn Boyles
WebMD Medical News

Oct. 26, 2007 -- Nearly two-thirds of women mistakenly believe having no family history of cancer means they have a low risk of developing the disease, and most do not know that oral contraceptive use is protective against ovarian and uterine cancer, a new survey shows.
Commissioned by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the poll results were released Friday to coincide with the launch of a new web-based guide designed to help women better understand their cancer risk.
ACOG past president Douglas W. Laube, MD, says the survey findings reveal a "worrisome gap in women's knowledge about cancer."
"This knowledge gap, as well as their fears about cancer, may be putting women at risk," he said at a Friday morning media briefing.
Among the highlights from the survey:
Two out of three women did not know that the vast majority of cancers occur in women with no family history of the disease. Only about 5% to 10% of breast cancers are thought to be hereditary, according to the American Cancer Society.
"While we know that having a family history of cancer is a risk factor, the fact is that most cancers occur in people with no family history of this disease at all," Laube says. "So those without a family history cannot assume that they are not at risk."
Only 11% of women knew that taking oral contraceptives is associated with a reduced risk of ovarian, uterine, and possibly colorectal cancer.
"Unfortunately the pill remains one of the best kept secrets in medicine," Laube says, adding that oral contraceptive use is still linked in many women's minds with an increased risk of breast cancer, even though many studies have found little or no association.
Only about half of the women surveyed felt they were doing enough to reduce their cancer risk, and 10% said they had done nothing to reduce their risk in the past year.
Almost one in three women (29%) reported that they did not see a health care provider on a regular basis and had not had a Pap test or mammogram during the previous year.
About a third of women without regular medical care cited lack of health insurance or other economic barriers as the reason.
"The greatest potential to further reduce cancer deaths in women will come from efforts to improve screening and access to preventive health care, particularly for women without insurance," Laube says.
The online survey conducted by Harris Interactive included 1,664 adult women aged 18 and older and took place Oct. 1 through Oct. 3, 2007.
New Colorectal Cancer Guidelines
Also on Friday, ACOG released new guidelines identifying colonoscopy as the preferred screening method for colorectal cancer.
The group is the first major health care organization to do this.
The guidelines call for most average-risk women to begin screening at age 50, with repeat screenings every 10 years or as needed. Women should be screened earlier if they have a family history of the disease or of adenomatous polyps, a personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps, or inflammatory bowel disease.
Advantages of colonoscopy over other screening methods include its ability to visualize the entire colon and to remove potentially dangerous polyps that could become malignant.
"While we want ob-gyns to encourage this method, they should still discuss the advantages and limitations of the other screening options with their patients," says Carol Brown, MD, of Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. "The bottom line is we want women to get tested by whichever method they are most likely to accept and follow through with."
Lung Cancer Bucking the Trend
ACOG's web guide titled "Protect and Detect: What Women Should Know About Cancer," was designed to educate women about the cancers that affect them most, including breast, cervical, colorectal, lung, ovarian, and uterine cancers.
While the death rate from most of these cancers has either declined or remained steady in recent years, lung cancer deaths among women has climbed.
Fully 80% of lung cancers in women are caused by smoking, and 5% to 10% may be due to 'passive' exposure to cigarette smoke, Sharon Phenlan, MD, professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine, said Friday.
Though more women get more breast cancer than lung cancer, far fewer breast cancer patients die. In 2007, the American Cancer Society estimates that 70,880 women will die of lung cancer, compared with 40,460 who will die of breast cancer.

What Women Don't Know About Cancer

2007-10-30T08:49:00.000-07:00

Bladder Cancer II

2007-10-29T09:07:00.000-07:00

http://www.apjohncancerinstitute.org/cancer/bladder.htm

After bladder cancer has been diagnosed, tests are done to find out if cancer cells have spread within the bladder or to other parts of the body. The process used to find out if cancer has spread within the bladder lining and muscle or to other parts of the body is called staging. The information gathered from the staging process determines the stage of the disease. It is important to know the stage in order to plan treatment. The following tests and procedures may be used in the staging process:
Cystoscopy: A procedure to look inside the bladder and urethra to check for abnormal areas. A cystoscope (a thin, lighted tube) is inserted through the urethra into the bladder. Tissue samples may be taken for biopsy.
CT scan (CAT scan): A procedure that makes a series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body, taken from different angles. The pictures are made by a computer linked to an x-ray machine. A dye may be injected into a vein or swallowed to help the organs or tissues show up more clearly. This procedure is also called computed tomography, computerized tomography, or computerized axial tomography.
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging): A procedure that uses a magnet, radio waves, and a computer to make a series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body. This procedure is also called nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMRI).
Physical exam and history: An exam of the body to check general signs of health, including checking for signs of disease, such as lumps or anything else that seems unusual. A history of the patient’s health habits and past illnesses and treatments will also be taken.
Chest x-ray: An x-ray of the organs and bones inside the chest. An x-ray is a type of energy beam that can go through the body and onto film, making a picture of areas inside the body.
Bone scan: A procedure to check if there are rapidly dividing cells, such as cancer cells, in the bone. A very small amount of radioactive material is injected into a vein and travels through the bloodstream. The radioactive material collects in the bones and is detected by a scanner.The following stages are used for bladder cancer:Stage 0In stage 0, the cancer is found on tissue lining the inside of the bladder only. Stage 0 is divided into stage 0a and stage 0is, depending on the type of the tumor:
Stage 0a is also called papillary carcinoma, which may look like tiny mushrooms growing from the lining of the bladder.
Stage 0is is also called carcinoma in situ, which is a flat tumor on the tissue lining the inside of the bladder.Stage 0 Bladder Cancer (Carcinoma in Situ) Treatment of stage 0 bladder cancer may include the following:
Transurethral resection with fulguration.
Transurethral resection with fulguration followed by intravesical biologic therapy or chemotherapy.
Segmental cystectomy.
Radical cystectomy.
A clinical trial of photodynamic therapy.
A clinical trial of biologic therapy.
A clinical trial of chemoprevention therapy given after treatment to stop cancer from recurring (coming back).Stage IIn stage I, the cancer has spread to the layer below the inner lining of the bladder. Stage I Bladder Cancer Treatment of stage I bladder cancer may include the following:
Transurethral resection with fulguration.
Transurethral resection with fulguration followed by intravesical biologic therapy or chemotherapy.
Segmental or radical cystectomy.
Radiation implants with or without external radiation therapy.
A clinical trial of chemoprevention therapy given after treatment to stop cancer from recurring (coming back).
A clinical trial of intravesical therapy.Stage IIIn stage II, cancer has spread to either the inner half or outer half of the muscle wall of the bladder. Stage II Bladder Cancer Treatment of stage II bladder cancer may include the following:• Radical cystectomy with or without surgery to remove pelvic lymph nodes.
External radiation therapy combined with chemotherapy.
Radiation implants before or after external radiation therapy.
Transurethral resection with fulguration.
Segmental cystectomy.
A clinical trial of chemotherapy before or after surgery.
A clinical trial of chemotherapy combined with external radiation therapy.Stage IIIIn stage III, cancer has spread from the bladder to the fatty layer of tissue surrounding it, and may have spread to the reproductive organs (prostate, uterus, vagina). Stage III Bladder Cancer Treatment of stage III bladder cancer may include the following:
Radical cystectomy.
External radiation therapy with or without radiation implants.
Segmental cystectomy.
External radiation therapy combined with chemotherapy.
A clinical trial of chemotherapy before or after surgery.
A clinical trial of chemotherapy combined with external radiation therapy.Stage III Bladder Cancer Treatment of stage III bladder cancer may include the following:
Radical cystectomy.
External radiation therapy with or without radiation implants.
Segmental cystectomy.
External radiation therapy combined with chemotherapy.
A clinical trial of chemotherapy before or after surgery.
A clinical trial of chemotherapy combined with external radiation therapy.Stage IVIn stage IV, cancer has spread from the bladder to the wall of the abdomen or pelvis. Cancer may have spread to one or more lymph nodes or to other parts of the body.Stage IV Bladder Cancer Treatment of stage IV bladder cancer may include the following:
Radical cystectomy.
External radiation therapy (may be as palliative therapy to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life).
Urinary diversion as palliative therapy to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
Cystectomy as palliative therapy to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
Chemotherapy.
A clinical trial of chemotherapy before or after surgery.
A clinical trial of chemotherapy combined with external radiation therapy.There are different types of treatment for patients with bladder cancer. Different types of treatment are available for patients with bladder cancer. Some treatments are standard (the currently used treatment), and some are being tested in clinical trials. Before starting treatment, patients may want to think about taking part in a clinical trial. A treatment clinical trial is a research study meant to help improve current treatments or obtain information on new treatments for patients with cancer. When clinical trials show that a new treatment is better than the “standard” treatment, the new treatment may become the standard treatment.
Four types of standard treatment are used:1. Surgery One of the following types of surgery may be done:
Transurethral resection (TUR) with fulguration: Surgery in which a cystoscope (a thin lighted tube) is inserted into the bladder through the urethra. A tool with a small wire loop on the end is then used to remove the cancer or to burn the tumor away with high-energy electricity. This is known as fulguration.
Radical cystectomy: Surgery to remove the bladder and any lymph nodes and nearby organs that contain cancer. This surgery may be done when the bladder cancer invades the muscle wall, or when superficial cancer involves a large part of the bladder. In men, the nearby organs that are removed are the prostate and the seminal vesicles. In women, the uterus, the ovaries, and part of the vagina are removed. Sometimes, when the cancer has spread outside the bladder and cannot be completely removed, surgery to remove only the bladder may be done to reduce urinary symptoms caused by the cancer. When the bladder must be removed, the surgeon creates another way for urine to leave the body.
Segmental cystectomy: Surgery to remove part of the bladder. This surgery may be done for patients who have a low-grade tumor that has invaded the wall of the bladder but is limited to one area of the bladder. Because most of the bladder remains intact, a patient is able to urinate normally after recovering from this surgery.
Urinary diversion: Surgery to make a new way for the body to store and pass urine.Even if the doctor removes all the cancer that can be seen at the time of the surgery, some patients may be given chemotherapy after surgery to kill any cancer cells that are left. Treatment given after surgery, to increase the chances of a cure, is called adjuvant therapy.2. Radiation therapy Radiation therapy is a cancer treatment that uses high-energy x-rays or other types of radiation to kill cancer cells. There are two types of radiation therapy. External radiation therapy uses a machine outside the body to send radiation toward the cancer. Internal radiation therapy uses a radioactive substance sealed in needles, seeds, wires, or catheters that are placed directly into or near the cancer. The way the radiation therapy is given depends on the type and stage of the cancer being treated. 3. Chemotherapy Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses drugs to stop the growth of cancer cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping the cells from dividing. When chemotherapy is taken by mouth or injected into a vein or muscle, the drugs enter the bloodstream and can reach cancer cells throughout the body (systemic chemotherapy). When chemotherapy is placed directly into the spinal column, a body cavity such as the abdomen, or an organ, the drugs mainly affect cancer cells in those areas. Bladder cancer may be treated with intravesical (into the bladder through a tube inserted into the urethra) chemotherapy. The way the chemotherapy is given depends on the type and stage of the cancer being treated.
What are the side effects of bladder cancer treatment?
The methods used to treat bladder cancer are very powerful. It is hard to limit the effects of treatment so that only cancer cells are destroyed; healthy tissue may also be damaged. That is why treatment can cause unpleasant side effects. Side effects depend on the type of treatment used and on the part of the body being treated.When the bladder is removed, the patient needs a new way to store and pass urine. Various methods are used. In one, the surgeon uses a piece of the person's small intestine to form a new pipeline. The ureters are attached to one end, and the other end is brought out through an opening in the wall of the abdomen. This new opening is called a stoma. (It is also called an ostomy or urostomy.) A flat bag fits over the stoma to collect urine, and it is held in place with a special adhesive. A specially trained nurse or enterostomal therapist will show the patient how to care for the ostomy.A newer method uses part of the small intestine to make a new storage pouch (called a continent reservoir) inside the body. The urine collects there and does not empty into a bag. Instead, the patient learns to use a tube (catheter) to drain the urine through a stoma. Other methods are being developed that connect a pouch made from the small intestine to a remaining part of the urethra. When this procedure is possible, a stoma and bag are not necessary because urine leaves the body through the urethra.Radical cystectomy causes infertility in both men and women. This operation can also lead to sexual problems. In the past, nearly all men were impotent following this procedure, but improvements in surgery have made it possible to prevent this in many men. In women, the vagina may be narrower or shallower, and intercourse may be difficult.During radiation therapy, patients may become very tired as the treatment continues. Resting as much as possible is important. Radiation treatment to the lower abdomen may cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Usually, certain foods or medications can ease these problems. Radiation therapy can also cause problems with fertility and can make sexual intercourse uncomfortable.causes side effects because it damages not only cancer cells but other rapidly growing cells as well. The side effects of chemotherapy depend on the specific drugs that are given. In addition, each patient reacts differently. Chemotherapy commonly affects blood-forming cells and cells that line the digestive tract. As a result, patients may have side effects such as a lowered resistance to infection, loss of appetite, loss of hair, nausea and vomiting, less energy, and mouth sores. These are short-term side effects that usually end after treatment stops. When drugs are put directly into the bladder, these side effects may be limited. However, it is common for the bladder to be irritated. Loss of appetite can be a serious problem for patients during therapy. Patients who eat well may be better able to withstand the side effects of their treatment, so good nutrition is an important part of the treatment plan. Eating well means getting enough calories to prevent weight loss and having enough protein to build and repair muscles, organs, skin, and hair. Many patients find that eating several small meals and snacks during the day is easier than trying to eat three large meals.Side effects during cancer treatment vary for each patient. They may even be different from one treatment to the next in the same person. Attempts are made to plan treatment to minimize problems. Fortunately, most side effects are temporary. Doctors, nurses, and dietitians can explain the side effects of cancer treatment and can suggest ways to deal with them.What happens after treatment for bladder cancer?
Regular follow-up exams are very important after treatment for bladder cancer. The bladder needs to be checked with a cystoscope, any superficial tumors that may have recurred are removed. The urine is checked for cancerous cells and a chest x-ray, an IVP, or other tests may be performed.A patient who has had bladder cancer should be closely monitored for several years, because bladder tumors can come back. If the cancer does recur, early detection is important so that additional treatment can be started.Bladder Cancer At A Glance
While the exact cause(s) of bladder cancer is not known, risk factors have been identified.
The most common warning sign of bladder cancer is blood in the urine.
The diagnosis of bladder cancer is supported by findings of the medical history and examination, blood, urine, and x-ray tests, and confirmed with a biopsy (usually during a cystoscope exam).
Treatment of bladder cancer depends on the growth, size, and location of the tumor as well as the age and health of the patient.
INTEGRATIVE THERAPY4. THE SCIENTIFICALLY FORMULATED AMINO ACID THERAPY
(Keep in mind, CAAT is much more than just a “diet”; it is an amino acid, carbohydrate, & glucose REDUCTION protocol which strategically uses the chemical reactions of amino acids, foods, and nutritional supplements to impair the development of cancer cells, thus starving them to death.) Clinical trials have already been done with humans using amino acid depravation formulas, and with much success. (Journal American Medical Association. 1967; 200:211)
CAAT is a course of therapy to control a patient’s amino acid intake. This is achieved by taking certain foods out of a persons’ daily food plan for a short time and by replacing them with a scientifically supported formula of amino acids. It is also important to emphasize that the food plan that accompanies the amino acid formula needs to be followed so not to offset any of the benefits we are creating by depriving the cancer cells the nutrients they need to grow. Also, it is important to realize that the patient does not need to abandon their conventional cancer treatment, (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormone treatments) nor is it recommended that they do so unless it has already failed them. CAAT works synergistically with chemotherapy and/or radiation to enhance their benefits (see study by Dr. Marco Rabinowitz of the National Cancer Institute). His report on amino acid deprivation, such as with Controlled Amino Acid Therapy (CAAT), proven to inhibit phosphofructokinase which shuts down the energy supply to cancer cells, simultaneously enhancing the benefits of chemotherapy while lessening their toxic side effects. CAAT has also proven to work successfully alone.
Phase 1: CAAT Formulation
The most important component of CAAT is the scientifically formulated amino acids. Based on the specific formula for each cancer, it consists of separate amino acids, citric acid, and small amounts of sodium benzoate. Each formula replaces most of the regular daily proteins found in meats, dairy, fish, beans and nuts, which cancer cells can derive their energy from. The CAAT formula taken two times per day will nourish the healthy cells while causing the cancer cells to starve to death. Of course each individual has specific needs concerning their diet, and this is explained in the second phase of the protocol as well as with a specialist at the Institute when beginning the CAAT therapy.
Phase 2: Daily Food Intake
DISCLAIMER: The following food program SHOULD NOT be consumed without the amino acid formula and without consent from your doctor and our Institute.
Breakfast:*1/2 Grapefruit or 1-orange or 6-ounces of fresh orange juice.Whey Enhanced Protein (Vanilla Flavor – Vitamin Shoppe Brand) approximately10 – 12 grams of protein – read label carefully, based on 150 lb. person ].A serving of Grits (Butter, cinnamon and other spices are okay).1 cup of green or black tea (Fructose is sweetener of choice).* Do Not have ½ grapefruit if taking Chemotherapy
Explanation: ½ Grapefruit or 1 orange or 6 ounces of fresh orange juice are rich in the natural nutrients called Limonene and Citric Acid. Limonene helps shut down the Ras cancer gene which is over active in 90 percent of all cancers. Citric Acid helps shut down glycolosis which in turn helps starve cancer cells to death.
Whey Enhanced Protein (Vanilla Flavor – Vitamin Shoppe Brand) Phosphorus is a nutrient that cancer cells must utilize in order to grow and reproduce. This brand of whey protein is very low in phosphorous and contains no additional vitamins, so when using approximately 10 – 12 grams of protein per 150 lb. person, it helps to protect normal cells, maintain a normal appetite, and also helps to fight edema. (Edema is the swelling or water build up in the legs or other sites in the body)Whey protein is included in the daily menu of all advanced or metastatic cancer patients. When treating cancers that are stable or have regressed in size, patients then have the option of including other protein foods at their breakfast meals such as cottage cheese, yogurt, or soy foods. Eggs are allowed in the diets of patients with lymphoma and brain cancers.
Grits or Cream of Wheat or 1 slice of white toast or ½ plain bagel or ½ English muffin (Butter is okay)Grits or white rice is the preferred carbohydrate food at each meal. The other choices are options once the patient’s cancer is stable or reduced in size. Unrefined carbohydrates are included in the CAAT menu instead of whole grains to deprive cancer cells of a certain B-complex vitamin called Pyridoxine (Vitamin B-6). Cancer cells require this vitamin to manufacture certain amino acids that we keep away from through CAAT’s amino acid reduction formula and diet. Grits is the preferred carbohydrate food at all meals instead of rice, corn, or pasta because it helps deplete Tryptophan in the body, which is essential for the growth and spreading of cancer cells.
1 cup of green or black tea, using fructose as the sweetener of choice. These teas are rich sources of several compounds that help shut down glycolosis and cut off the energy supply to cancer cells. Also, green or regular tea helps to prevent certain hormones and tumor growth factors from stimulating cancer cells to grow and metastasize to other parts of the body. Brassica teas can also be taken because they contain sulphorane, a nutrient that inhibits cancer growth, and also shuts down the cancer genes.* Why we use fructose as the sweetener of choice will be explained in detail at the end of this phase of the CAAT protocol.
Lunch:
Amino acid formula (4 level plastic scoops) mixed with any of the following: Water & Fructose; Sugar free Kool-Aid; Diet ginger ale; Fresh lemonade & Fructose; Chicken or Beef broth; V8 juice.Generous amounts of One cooked vegetable or a combination of the following: asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, brussell sprouts, spinach, squash, string beans.One serving (1/2 cup)of fresh fruit. Choice of: pear, orange, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries.1 serving (moderate) of grits or corn or rice or pasta (Add tomato sauce or butter)1 tablespoon of coconut oil8 to 10 black or green olives2 tablespoons of vinegar (minimum of 5% acidity) add to vegetables or food1 cup of green or black tea (Fructose as desired)
Explanation:
This Amino Acid Reduction Formula (4 level plastic scoops may vary) combined with the special diet, allows the CAAT Protocol to reduce certain amino acids in the daily diet of the cancer patient, and is designed to replace most of the animal protein in the diet. Cancer cells require the amino acids glycine, serine, glutamic acid, and aspartic acid to synthesize DNA, build new blood vessels or duplicate its entire contents of proteins. Also, cancer cells require these and certain other amino acids in order to synthesize other proteins that act as growth promoting hormones or tumor growth factors. CAAT impairs the synthesis of a protein called elastin, which is absolutely essential to the manufacture of new blood vessels. The Amino Acid Reduction Formula, diet, certain phytochemicals and herbs work efficaciously to attack cancer cells at each and every biological front.
The generous amounts of one cooked vegetable or a combination of such helps keep normal cells healthy. They are low in carbohydrates and proteins, and high in phytochemicals, compounds which help fight cancer. Patients are allowed to eat these vegetables and salads whenever desired.
The 8 to 10 olives are rich in squalene and oleic acid, nutrients that have been reported to inhibit certain cancer growth factors. The calories in olives also help control body weight and increases ketones in the blood. Ketones help fight cancer by impairing glycolosis – a process in which cancer cells depend almost exclusively upon for their daily supply of energy. Vinegar (and fructose) are two natural products that increase the production of both ACETIC ACID and CITRIC ACID in the body.
Acetic acid and citric acid also help fight cancer by shutting down the process of glycolosis.Normal cells derive most of their daily energy supply from acetic acid and citric acid, where as cancer cells derive most of their daily energy from glycolosis.
Dinner:
Amino acid formula (4 plastic level scoops) mixed with any of the following: Water & fructose; Sugar free Kool–Ade; Diet Ginger Ale; Fresh lemonade & Fructose; Chicken or Beef broth; V8 Juice.Generous amounts of One cooked vegetable or a combination of the following: asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, brussel sprouts, spinach, squash, string beans.One serving (1/2 cup) of stewed plums with fresh cream & fructose; use 4-ounces of orange juice if plums are not in season.Avacado salad with lettuce, tomatoes, celery, onions, with lemon juice and coconut oil or olive oil.2 tablespoons of vinegar (minimum of 5% acidity) add to vegetables or food.1 serving of grits or corn or pasta or rice (Add garlic and butter or tomato sauce)1 cup of green or black tea (Fructose as desired)
Mid Evening Snack: Ketogenic Cocktail – 2 ounces of fresh cream, ½ ounce each of both coconut & olive oil, 1 tablespoon of Fructose.Sugar free Jell-O with whipped cream & Fructose or 1 plum or 4 ounces of orange juice.
Explanation: The sugar free jell-o helps to appease the appetite. Plums contain quinlic acid, which is converted into benzoic acid in the body and which in turn helps to deplete the availability of the amino acid Glycine (Glycine is essential to the synthesis of DNA for cancer cells) and the proteins that cancer cells require to build new blood vessels and their tumor growth factors. If underweight take two ounces of light cream and one ounce of olive oil/coconut oil as needed to maintain weight.
Optional Meal:
3 to 4 ounces of Veal, Fish of choice, Beef, Chicken breast, and 1-slice of white bread.
Consume this meal with a minimum of 3 hours before or after taking the amino acids.
Explanation: If the patient is 10 or more pounds underweight or if their albumin levels are below normal is when the optional meal is allowed. This meal should be eaten a minimum of 3 hours before or after taking the amino acids. CAAT provides sufficient protein to maintain the health of normal cells and adequate amounts of calories to maintain desired body weight. Any proteins taken in excess of amounts recommended in the diet will counter act the benefits of the CAAT protocol.
Special Diets: A special diet will be created for any cancer patient whose ability to consume food and liquids has placed them in a critical situation. When a patient is using a feeding apparatus, or they have become too weak or lethargic to eat and drink the daily minimum amount for survival, we will break up the total breakfast, lunch, and dinner over a period of every 2 hours during the entire day until the patient is capable of returning to a daily diet as outlined above.
Carbohydrate and glucose reduction in this diet: CAAT’S dietary menu provides approximately 20 percent of its calories in the form of carbohydrates. Calories need not be a focal point or counted daily. It is recommended that all patients combat their cancers by keeping their body weight at normal or slightly below normal levels. A patient’s desired body weight is regulated by their rate of metabolism, which in turn is regulated by their blood levels of thyroxine, cortisone, insulin, and the amounts of fats and oils in the diet. Studies with human cancer patients and laboratory animals show that reducing the calories of carbohydrates (glucose) in their daily diet by only 10 percent reduced the size of cancerous tumors. When carbohydrate (glucose) calories were reduced 40 percent, the cancers disappeared. It is recommended that those patients who are obese gradually and systematically lose their excess weight to increase the efficiency of the CAAT protocol. Those patients who are underweight shoudn’t gain weight unless they are more than 10 pounds below normal levels. When a patient is underweight due to anorexia or cachexia, such illnesses must be addressed before the CAAT protocol can begin.
Why we use Fructose and Vinegar to treat cancer:
Nobel Prize winner Dr. Otto Warburg discovered more than 50 years ago that all cancer cells produce inordinate amount of lactic acid but he couldn’t explain why.
In 2001 our Institute published the first study to show that cancer cells produce excess amounts of lactic acid because they could not access the oxygen in compartments in the cells called the mitochondria. This provided evidence that cancer cells depend almost exclusively upon glycolosis or the metabolism of glucose as their major source of energy.
Dr. Spitz and Dr. Lee with other cancer researchers published studies showing that when cancer cells are deprived glucose, their energy supply is cut off which causes these cancer cells to commit suicide.
Therefore shutting down glycolosis would be one means of destroying cancer cells because energy can only be derived from glucose through the metabolic process called glycolosis.
Recently our Cancer Institute discovered that both acetic acid and citric acid could inhibit the activity of a key enzyme in glycolosis called phosphofructokinase, which in turn shuts down the process of glycolosis. Our cancer Institute is the first to introduce both fructose and vinegar as treatments for cancer because they either contain or produce acetic acid.
In conclusion, fructose and vinegar are added as supplements to the CAAT protocol because of their acetic acid properties that help shut down glycolosis, shutting off cancer cells energy supply and causing them to die off.
Phase 3: Nutritional Supplements
Nutritional supplements are based on each unique situation. For example, slow growing cancers produce low levels of toxic free radicals. Tumor cells that grow aggressively produce large amounts of toxic free radicals. The patient will be instructed whether or not to take anti-oxidants (in a nutritional supplement) and at what dosage, according to the levels of toxic free radicals produced in the cancerous cells.
An example of how nutritional supplements can help manipulate cancer cells involves vitamin B-6 (pyroxidine) There are four amino acids essential to the synthesis of DNA. However, those amino acids cannot be synthesized without a certain enzyme, which includes vitamin B-6 among other components. Any supplement containing vitamin B-6 SHOULD NOT be taken during the first 2 months of the CAAT protocol.
The patient will be instructed as to which nutritional supplements or phytochemicals should be purchased and at what dosage strength. Keep in mind that each supplement only complements the CAAT protocol. However, when they are combined they augment the therapeutic benefits of the aminoacid, carbohydrate, and glucose reduction diet.
Parsley: Contains ingredients that can help shut down certain enzymes called Epithelial Growth Factors, which stimulate the growth and spread of cancer. ( CAAT’S amino acid reduction diet works in the same manner )
Vitamin D: Helps activate in many kinds of cancers enzymes called Phosphotases, which literally shut down the activities of other enzymes called Kinases, which are essential to the growth and reproduction of cancer cells.
Green Tea Extract: Phytochemicals in tea help shut down glycolosis (cancer cell’s main supplier of energy) and thereby help to starve cancer cells to death. These effects help complement the effects of CAAT’S carbohydrate reduction.
Anti-Oxidants: The controversy as to whether or not to treat cancer with anti-oxidants is slowly resolving with the current understanding of how they affect the activity of genes and enzymes in cancer cells. The prevailing data shows that the benefits or lack of benefits depend upon the oxidative state the cancer cells are in. Anti-oxidants taken when the cells are in a very high oxidative state may prevent cancer cells from entering apoptosis ( apoptosis is when a cancer cell commits suicide) When oxidative stress in cancer cells is only slightly above normal, anti-oxidants are then expected to stop their growth and reproduction.
Blood Chemistry: Blood tests are usually taken every 6 to 8 weeks, depending upon the results of each test. Not only is it important to monitor the tumor markers but equally important to keep abreast of the overall health of normal tissues and organs. For example, it is important to learn of the health of the kidneys and liver, whether the body is producing sufficient red and white blood cells, etc. Low albumin levels most often indicate insufficient intake of proteins in the diet and this problem would have to be addressed. CAAT is designed to attack cancer but keep the normal cells and tissues functioning harmoniously.
Whey Protein: This protein food is recommended at the breakfast meal to help meet the daily needs of amino acids for the normal cells of the body, and to help keep albumin levels normal and to help prevent edema. We recommend Whey protein purchased from the Vitamin Shoppe because it is the only brand that we have seen with no phosphorous or additional vitamins added to it.
Grits: Grits are also recommended at the breakfast meal in place of whole grains because it is low in vitamin B-6. Cancer cells require B-6 to manufacture the amino acid Glycine, which is required for DNA synthesis. Grits, instead of whole grains, therefore helps prevent cancer cells from manufacturing DNA and building new blood vessels.
Calcium D-Glucurate: This phytochemical helps the body to retain a compound called Glucuronic acid. This is necessary to eliminate both estrogen and testosterone from the body. This is why Calcium D-Glucurate is added to the regiments of patients with breast & prostate cancers. Calcium D-Glucurate is not to be confused with calcium carbonate, which is nothing more than a calcium supplement.
D-Limonene: This phytochemical found mostly in citrus fruits blocks the process called Isoprenylation, which is necessary for tumor growth factors such as the RAS gene, Epithelial Growth factor, Tyrosine Kinase, and Insulin-Like-Growth-factor, to send their signals into the nucleus of a cancer cell and directs them to grow and divide into more cancer cells.
Tocotrienols: This member of the Vitamin E family also helps shut down Isoprenylation and assists D-Limonene in blocking the actions of the various tumor growth factors. More specifically, tocotrienols shut down an enzyme called HMG-2, which is essential to the synthesis of the building blocks that form the Isoprenylation process.
Niacin: This B-Complex vitamin works with D-limonene and the Tocotrienols to shut down the process of Isoprenylation, which as mentioned above prevents the cancer promoting RAS genes from sending signals into the nucleus of the cell. Niacin also helps deplete thee amino acid Glycine, which cancer cells need to synthesize DNA. And by reducing cholesterole in the body, Niacin helps lower the production of estrogen and testosterone.
Choline: This B-complex vitamin is included in our supplement list to help the liver metabolize Niacin and other compounds and to help fight fatigue that accompanies most forms of cancer.
Selenium: Numerous studies show that this mineral can interfere with the activity of certain genes that promote the growth of cancer and to induce cancer cells to commit suicide (apoptosis)
Perilla Oil: This oil is rich in Alpha Linolenic Acid which can inhibit the growth of cancer cells in several ways. One way is to inhibit the synthesis in the body of a tumor growth promotin hormone called Prostaglandin-2, also, Alpha Linolenic Acid inhibits the actions of certain genes that promote the growth of cancer cells. Linolenic acid is not to be confused with linoleic acid, which is a bad fat that stimulates the growth of cancer cells. This bad fat, linoleic acid, is found in all vegetable oils and nuts (With the exception of coconut oil). Olive oil has the least amount of this bad fat.
Super Miraforte: This herb impairs the synthesis of estrogen from testosterone in the body and is included in the regiments of women with breast cancer.Licorice Root Extract & Pantothenic Acid: This herb and vitamin are added to the regiment when it is desirable to produce steroid like actions in the body. Also used to help patient’s gain weight and to inhibit the growth of lymphomas and leukemia’s.
Resveratrol: This phytochemical blocks the actions of a number of a number of cancer promoting genes thereby causing cancer cells to enter into apoptosis (cell death) and is included in the treatment of all cancers.
Indole-3 Carbinol & D.I.M.: These two phytochemicals block the actions of both estrogen and testosterone and are included in the regiments of both breast and prostate gland cancer.
Melatonin: Numerous studies show that this hormone blocks the synthesis of the cancer promoting chemicals in the body called Leukotrienes, and is included in the treatment of all cancers.
Artho Pro System: This combination of herbs and phytochemicals inhibits the synthesis of the cancer promoting hormone called Prostaglandin-2 and the Leukotriens and replaces the drug celebrex when liver problems are present. The Prostaglandin hormone is over active in most cancers and stimulates cancer growth. The body manufactures the Prostaglandin hormone from the bad fat, Linoleic acid, mentioned above.
Licorice Root Extract & Pantothenic Acid: This HERB and VITAMIN are added to the regiment when it is desirable to produce steroid like actions in the body. Used also to help patients gain weight and ti inhibit the growth of Lymphomas and Leukemias.
CAAT is designed to attack cancer, while keeping normal cells and tissues functioning harmoniously

Bladder Cancer I

2007-10-29T09:05:00.000-07:00

http://www.apjohncancerinstitute.org/cancer/bladder.htm

What is Bladder Cancer?
The bladder is an expandable, hollow organ in the pelvis that stores urine (the body's liquid waste) before it leaves the body during urination. The urinary tract, made up of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra, is lined with a layer of transitional cells called the urothelium. This layer of cells is separated from the bladder muscles (called the muscularis propria) by a thin, fibrous band called the lamina propria. The lamina propria separates tumors that have spread into muscle (called invasive cancer) from those that have not (superficial or non-invasive cancers).
Bladder cancers are malignant tumors that begin in the bladder. Different bladder cancers are described by how deep they grow and if they grow into the bladder or through the muscles around the bladder (superficial or invasive).
There are three types of bladder cancer: transitional cell carcinoma, or TCC (about 90% of bladder cancer cases); squamous cell carcinomas (about 8%); and adenocarcinomas (about 2%). There are other less common types of cancer that arise in the bladder, including sarcomas (which begin in the muscle layers of the bladder) and small cell anaplastic cancers (a rare type very likely to spread to other parts of the body).
All three types can metastasize beyond the bladder. The tumor can grow into the surrounding organs (uterus and vagina in women; prostate in men), called locally advanced disease. It can also spread to the nearby lymph nodes, and/or into the liver, bones, or lungs; this is called distant metastasis. In some cases, it can spread to other parts of the body.
As we well know, there are many kinds of cancer; unfortunately they all come about because of the out-of-control growth of abnormal cells.Leading Cancers in Women, Men, & ChildrenFor Women: Breast cancer is the leading cancer for women in the US. Lung cancer is the second most common form of cancer and colorectal cancer is third among white women. The number 2 and 3 cancers are reversed among black and Asian/Pacific Island women. For all women, the fourth leading cancer is cancer of the uterus.For Men: Prostate cancer is the leading cancer for men in the US. It is followed by lung cancer and then colorectal cancer. The fourth most common cancer is race-dependent. It is bladder cancer for white men, cancer of the mouth and throat for black men; and stomach cancer for Asian/Pacific Island men.For Children: The most common malignancies in childhood are leukemia, followed by brain tumors, and lymphoma.Cancer that is confined to the lining of the bladder is called superficial bladder cancer. Cancer that begins in the transitional cells may spread through the lining of the bladder and invade the muscle wall of the bladder or spread to nearby organs and lymph nodes; this is called invasive bladder cancer.Bladder cancer is a fairly common form of cancer in the United States. Whites contract bladder cancer twice as often as blacks, and men are affected two to three times as often as women. Most bladder cancers occur after the age of 55, but the disease can also develop in younger people. Each year, more than 50,000 people in the United States find out they have bladder cancer. The outlook for patients with early bladder cancer is very good. The chances of recovery from more advanced bladder cancer are improving as researchers continue to look for better ways to treat this disease.Smoking, gender, and diet can affect the risk of developing bladder cancer. Risk factors include the following:
Smoking.
Being exposed to certain substances at work, such as rubber, certain dyes and textiles, paint, and hairdressing supplies.
A diet high in fried meats and fat.
Being older, male, or white.
Having an infection caused by a certain parasite. Possible signs of bladder cancer include blood in the urine or pain during urination.
These and other symptoms may be caused by bladder cancer or by other conditions. A doctor should be consulted if any of the following problems occur:
Blood in the urine (slightly rusty to bright red in color).
Frequent urination, or feeling the need to urinate without being able to do so.
Pain during urination.
Lower back pain.
What is hematuria?
Hematuria means blood in the urine. Microscopic hematuria indicates that the blood is only seen when the urine is examined under a microscope, while gross hematuria means that there is enough blood in the urine so that it can be seen with the naked eye. Despite the quantity of blood in the urine being different, the types of diagnoses that can cause the problem are the same, and the workup or evaluation that is needed is identical. Since blood in the urine must come from one of the organs involved in making or transporting the urine, the evaluation of hematuria requires that we consider the entire urinary tract. This organ system includes the kidneys, ureter (the tube that carries the urine from the kidney to the bladder), bladder, prostate, or urethra (tube leading out of the bladder). It must be emphasized that even a single episode of hematuria requires evaluation, even if it resolves spontaneously. What are the causes of hematuria?
There are multiple causes of hematuria. Some are serious, including cancers, trauma, stones, infections, and obstructions of the urinary tract. Others are less important, and may require no treatment. These may include viral infections, nonspecific inflammations of the kidney, medications which thin the blood's clotting ability, and benign prostate enlargement. How is hematuria evaluated?
The evaluation for hematuria consists of taking a history, performing a physical examination, evaluating the urine under a microscope, and finally, obtaining a culture of the urine. A significant history would include whether or not there was any pain or discomfort associated with the hematuria; whether the blood was in the beginning, end, or throughout the urinary stream; and finally, whether there is a personal history of smoking, kidney stones, injuries to the urinary tract, trouble urinating, or previous urologic evaluation. No matter how obvious the reason for hematuria appears to be, a complete evaluation is almost always necessary to rule out a serious underlying disease, such as a cancer. There are usually three diagnostic tests necessary to give us a look at the entire urinary tract, and these include the intravenous pyelogram (IVP), cystoscopy, and urine cytology. The intravenous pyelogram, or IVP, is an x-ray evaluation of the urinary tract. In this procedure, a dye is injected into the veins, and this is filtered by the urinary tract. A series of x-rays are then taken over a thirty-minute period, looking for abnormalities. This study is especially useful for evaluating the kidneys and ureter, but not the bladder, prostate, or urethra. Therefore, a second examination called a cystoscopy is necessary. In this procedure, a small viewing tube, or cystoscope, is used to visually inspect the bladder and the urethra. In most instances, this can be done without discomfort by the use of local anesthetic jelly. The cystoscope is passed up the urethra into the bladder, and the inspection is carried out. The entire examination takes less than ten minutes. The final test is a urine cytology, which involves voiding urine into a cup and having that urine examined by a pathologist to look for cancer cells. How is hematuria treated?
Management of hematuria depends upon the underlying cause. Many times a cause cannot be found, which is fortunate, because it generally suggests that there is not a harmful situation present. Remember that the real reason for a hematuria workup is not to prove a specific cause, but to rule out a serious problem. If no cause is found for the hematuria, the urine should be checked on a yearly basis to make certain that no changes are occurring. However, if gross hematuria were to recur, repeat evaluation may be necessary, and a physician should be consulted. A blood test to check kidney function and a blood pressure check should be done as well. Men over fifty should have a yearly PSA, or prostate specific antigen, to screen for prostate cancer. Further discussion of the treatment for hematuria would depend upon the results of the previously mentioned workup and the exact cause for the hematuria. The urologist who performs this examination would direct any further treatment or workup that would be necessary. Tests that examine the urine, vagina, or rectum are used to help detect (find) and diagnose bladder cancer.The following tests and procedures may be used:
CT scan (CAT scan): A procedure that makes a series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body, taken from different angles. The pictures are made by a computer linked to an x-ray machine. A dye may be injected into a vein or swallowed to help the organs or tissues show up more clearly. This procedure is also called computed tomography, computerized tomography, or computerized axial tomography.
Urinalysis: A test to check the color of urine and its contents, such as sugar, protein, blood, and bacteria.
Internal exam: An exam of the vagina and/or rectum. The doctor inserts gloved fingers into the vagina and/or rectum to feel for lumps.
Intravenous pyelogram (IVP): A series of x-rays of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder to find out if cancer has spread to these organs. A contrast dye is injected into a vein. As the contrast dye moves through the kidneys, ureters, and bladder, x-rays are taken to see if there are any blockages.
Cystoscopy: A procedure to look inside the bladder and urethra to check for abnormal areas. A cystoscope (a thin, lighted tube) is inserted through the urethra into the bladder. Tissue samples may be taken for biopsy.
Biopsy: The removal of cells or tissues so they can be viewed under a microscope to check for signs of cancer. A biopsy for bladder cancer is usually done during cystoscopy. It may be possible to remove the entire tumor during biopsy.
Urine cytology: Examination of urine under a microscope to check for abnormal cells. Certain factors affect prognosis (chance of recovery) and treatment options.The prognosis (chance of recovery) depends on the following:
The stage of the cancer (whether it is superficial or invasive bladder cancer, and whether it has spread to other places in the body). Bladder cancer in the early stages can often be cured.
The type of bladder cancer cells and how they look under a microscope.
The patient’s age and general health. Treatment options depend on the stage of bladder cancer.
Healthy Cells vs. Cancer Cells
Healthy cells are like a cat. They need structure to determine the size of bones and shape of the body, tail and whiskers. The DNA in genes and chromosomes determine this. They need energy to play and prowl and sustain life. This is derived from chemicals in food. Cats need a system to deliver chemicals (food nutrients like amino acids, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals) to all parts of their body. These are the blood vessels. Growth factors take a kitten into a lazy old cat, all the while helping it to function normally.
The body and its cells are mostly made up of protein. The building blocks of proteins are substances called amino acids that in the form of enzymes and hormones literally control every chemical reaction within the cells. When these are modified, different messages are sent to a complex control system that can alter their function. There are twenty different kinds of amino acids that are essential to life. Twelve of these can be synthesized within the body however; eight must be supplied by the daily diet.

Most Asian Men Have Better Prostate Cancer Survival Rates

2007-10-27T09:56:00.000-07:00

Asian men have better survival rates than white males, while South Asians have the worst survival rates, according to results of a study of men living in California.
"Nearly all Asians do far better when they get prostate cancer," said study lead author Dr. Anthony Robbins, of the California Cancer Registry in Sacramento. "But Indian men didn't do as well as other Asian men, and they did worse than all other men, including blacks and whites," he added.
The reasons for these racial and ethnic differences in prostate cancer survival aren't known, Robbins said, adding, "We just couldn't explain it."
Not only couldn't the researchers explain the finding, they were left with an apparent paradox. The Asian men were usually older and had more advanced disease at the time of diagnosis, Robbins said. "Based on their risk factors, you would think they were going to do worse," he said.
In the study, Robbins and his colleagues collected data on 116,916 men (108,076 whites and 8,840 Asians from the six largest represented Asian ethnicities -- Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, Korean, South Asian, and Vietnamese) diagnosed with prostate cancer. The researchers compared prognostic factors and survival rates among the men.
The researchers found that for Asians, risk profiles were worse compared with whites. For example, Asians were more likely to have more advanced disease and use non-curative therapies. But, for Asians -- except for South Asians -- survival rates were equal to or better than rates for whites.
Japanese-American men were 34 percent less likely to die from prostate cancer compared with whites. But South Asian men -- those from India, Pakistan,Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bhutan -- were 40 percent more likely to die from the disease, Robbins said.
The study was published online Monday in the journal Cancer.
Some of the factors that may influence the findings include diet, exercise and genetics, Robbins speculated.
"Doctors that are seeing patients for prostate cancer need to be aware that these differences can be used as factors in planning the patient's treatment and telling the patient what their survival might be," Robbins said.
Dr. Durado Brooks, director of prostate and colorectal cancer at the American Cancer Society, thinks this study demonstrates the need to better understand how different racial and ethnic groups respond to diseases.
"This study points out the potential misleading conclusions we can come to when we use these large groups to lump different subpopulations into," he said.
"If you lump in the South Asian subgroup with other Asians, as is traditionally done, you totally miss the fact that these folks have a strikingly higher chance of dying from prostate cancer," Brooks said.
Brooks said the study finding can provide a basis for research to try to understand why these differences exist between populations.
Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer to strike American men, other than skin cancer, according to the American Cancer Society, which estimates there will be about 218,890 new cases of prostate cancer in the United States in 2007, and about 27,050 men will die of the disease. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in males. While one in six men will get prostate cancer during his lifetime, only one man in 34 will die of the disease. The death rate for prostate cancer is declining, due in large part to earlier diagnoses, the society said.
Another paper in the same issue of the journal also found racial differences among women who survive breast cancer; with black women having poorer survival regardless of the stage of the disease.
It is known that black women had larger tumors and are more likely to have invasive breast cancer. But the study, lead by Dr. Alfred Neugut from Columbia University Medical Center and Russell McBride from Mailman School of Public Health, found that mortality among black women was up to 56 percent higher than whites.
Neugut's team says that the disparities in survival were surprising and suggest that non-clinical factors, such as access to and quality of care, may play a part.
SOURCES: Anthony Robbins, M.D., Ph.D., California Cancer Registry, Sacramento; Durado Brooks, M.D., director, prostate and colorectal cancer, American Cancer Society, Atlanta; Aug. 13, 2007, Cancer, online

Prostate Cancer Prevention

2007-10-27T09:53:00.000-07:00

Introduction:

The male hormone testosterone is considered a major factor in the development of prostate cancer. In the January l997 issue of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute is a report showing that testosterone stimulates cells in the prostate to produce the cancer causing free radicals.

In the December l996 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association, a report shows that men who took a nutritional supplement called selenomethionine over a seven year period had a 67 percent reduction in the incidence of cancer of the prostate.

Selenium is a mineral and a major component of the enzyme called glutathione, which is considered one of the most potent anti-oxidants in existence, and one of the most powerful members of the Cancer Detox System. Methionine through its production of cysteine makes possible the synthesis of glutathione within the cells of the body. Selenomethionine therefore protects the prostate against cancer by neutralizing or destroying the toxic, cancer causing free radicals produced in the cells by testosterone and other metabolic factors.

Other major factors that stimulate the cells of the prostate to produce an excess of the oxygen free radicals, which increase one's risk of developing cancer of this gland, include:
OBESITY & ISCHEMIA. Overeating, regardless of whether carbohydrates, fats or proteins, leads to obesity. Excess fat cells impair the flow of blood to the cells of the prostate (ischemia), which prevents these cells from synthesizing a chemical called ATP. This deficiency causes a whole series of chemical reactions to take place in the cells, causing them to produce an excess of the cancer-causing free radicals. Constipation can also cause ischemia. Large fecal stools with delayed elimination can reduce blood flow to the prostate. After the elimination the ischemia is broken, resulting in a rush of flow of blood to the prostate. This process of occlusion and reperfusion of blood results in a build up of the cancer causing free radicals, henceforth, increasing the risk of prostate cancer.

OVER-THE-COUNTER & PRESCRIPTION DRUGS. The daily abuse of these drugs depletes the body's stores of glucuronic acid. The Cancer Detox System uses glucuronic acid to regulate blood levels of testosterone and to eliminate cancer causing chemicals from the body. A phytochemical found in fruits and vegetables called d-glucarate enhances the process known as glucuronicidation (a process by which glucuronic acid is conjugated with testosterone or a cancer causing chemical and flushed out of the body). This helps to prevent against cancer of the prostate. We recommend every man over the age of 35 take supplements of calcium d-glucarate daily as a preventative to prostate cancer.

SMOKING. The chemicals in cigarette smoke can produce ischemia to the prostate and thereby increase one's risk of developing cancer of this gland by increasing production of free radicals in the cells.

ALCOHOl. Abuse of alcohol can impair the liver's production of glucuronic acid. This increases the risk of prostate cancer.

DIETARY DEFICIENCIES. Poor eating habits can weaken the Cancer Detox System. This increases the risk of prostate cancer. A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association shows that vitamin E supplements reduce the incidence of prostate cancer by 25%. A healthy Cancer Detox System is the key to the prevention of cancer of the prostate gland.

INSULIN-LIKE GROWTH FACTOR (ILGF). Most current studies now show that blood levels of the insulin-like growth factors (ILGF), to be a more accurate marker for determining the presence of cancer of the prostate than the PSA levels.

The Cancer Institute recommends that every man begin at the age of 35 to test his blood levels of the ILGF. He should then follow up with tests every 3 to 5 years, depending upon the results of each test.

The Cancer Institute also cautions men not to take a nutritional supplement called DHEA, or the growth hormone, without first testing blood levels of these compounds.

Following the Cancer Institute's dietary and nutritional supplements guidelines is the best possible means of maintaining a healthy and effective Cancer Detox System. Keep in mind that life-style abuses can overload the Cancer Detox System and increase the risk of cancer in any part of the body, including the prostate gland

Source: http://www.apjohncancerinstitute.org/prostate.htm

When Viruses Attack

2007-10-26T04:33:00.000-07:00

By: Kristen Philipkoski

It's not a lunar lander and it's not a new breed of killer mosquito. It's a very common bacteria-eating virus and researchers have a closer look at it now than ever before.
Researchers at Purdue University combined traditional crystallography and cryoelectron microscopy with imaging software to create detailed pictures of a virus called T4. The Purdue scientists also made a video that shows how the virus attaches to a cell surface, infects it and replicates.
The work isn't just visually impressive, it gives researchers insight into the T4 virus that could elucidate the secrets of viral infection and possibly improve gene-therapy techniques, the Purdue researchers said. Their work was published in the Aug. 20 issue of Cell.
"By changing the receptor molecule at the ends of the long tail fibers," said Michael Rossmann, a structural biologist at Purdue, "you may be able to target specific cells or add to the genome of the virus to get it to insert additional genes into target cells."
T4 is a bacteria-eating virus called a bacteriophage, or phage for short. The word "bacteriophage" was forged from "bacterium" combined with the Greek "phagein," to eat. Each phage eats just one specific type of bacteria. The T4 phage feasts on E-coli. Because overuse is rapidly rendering antibiotics ineffective, researchers are turning to phage viruses as possible replacements. Bacteriophage therapy has been used in Eastern Europe and Russia for decades, but antibiotics have been more popular in the West.
Video Watch the animation of a virus infecting a cell.
Felix d'Herelle of the Pasteur Institute in France dubbed the bacteria-eaters bacteriophages in 1917. They're one of the simplest life forms on Earth, with a head made of DNA, and spidery legs that grab the bacterium. The video shows how T4 latches on to E-coli with its seven appendages and injects the bacteria with its DNA. Next, it will make copies of itself, eventually causing the E-coli to explode, launching hundreds of new phage particles into the area.
Honing this process into a successful gene therapy is likely decades away. But Rossmann and his colleagues continue their research primarily for the thrill of gaining knowledge.
"In research, one question always leads to the next question," he said. "We may stop working on a particular virus, but there's always one around the corner."

Cancer-Killing Virus Modified to Deliver a One-Two Punch

2007-10-26T04:32:00.001-07:00

By Alexis Madrigal

Scientists hacking a smallpox-like virus into doing battle with cancer have given a new weapon to their microscopic warrior.
Researchers at Stanford University and Jennerex Biotherapeutics have tweaked the cancer-killing vaccinia virus JX-963 so that it also stimulates the body to generate cancer-fighting white blood cells. The company intends to take the virus into clinical trials based on a promising animal study.
"This is a very powerful and potent approach," said Dr. Antonio Chiocca, a professor at Ohio State University and a specialist in oncological neurosurgery, who was not involved in the study. "You can think of each of these viruses as a new drug."
Cancer-fighting viruses are the latest attempt to harness viruses' infectious powers for therapeutic treatments. Modified viruses have been used in experimental gene therapies to "fix" faulty inherited genetic code. Gene therapy has generated much hype but little clinical success. Scientists claim to have made recent progress targeting cancer cells with modded cold, herpes and smallpox viruses. These viruses infect and kill cancer cells while leaving healthy cells alone. A different Jennerex virus, JX-594, is already entering Phase II clinical trials for the treatment of liver tumors.
In a study appearing Thursday in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, the researchers report that the new JX-963 treatment resulted in the suppression of colon tumors in the rabbits on which it was tested.
"The results are very encouraging," said Dr. Stephen Thorne, a co-author of the study and professor of surgical oncology at the University of Pittsburgh. "I would envisage clinical trials starting next year."
Thorne is a Jennerex consultant.
Until now, virus therapies have had limited success targeting and killing all the cancer cells in the body, and not just some. With the new JX-963 therapy, the virus doesn't have to do the work alone -- it elicits the body's own defenses to mop up cancer cells.
The chemical that the virus secretes, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, or GM-CSF, is a protein that stimulates the production of white blood cells. The scientists must be careful, however, not to overstimulate the immune system so that it kills the virus before it has a chance to attack the cancer.
"You have to make sure you give the virus enough time to do its job," said Chiocca.
Paradoxically, the answer might lie in temporarily suppressing the immune system with drugs to allow the virus to spread rapidly. Then, after the virus has destroyed most of the tumor, GM-CSF stimulates an elevated immune system response.
The obvious risk of using viruses to attack cancer cells is that the virus might mutate into a deadly form. Since a death in a clinical trial in 1999, gene-therapy research has been on the back burner. Similar problems in the field of cancer-killing viruses could halt research.
Chiocca downplayed the risk from viruses that target humans, like the one used by the Stanford researchers. He said that most people already have been exposed to the smallpox, cold and herpes vaccines, so our immune systems are unlikely to be compromised by any of their forms.
However, there are more risks when researchers use viruses that attack other species. There are a small number of preclinical trials using viruses that don’t target humans, Chiocca said.
"You worry about injecting a bird virus into humans, which could potentially become adapted to the human population and create a supervirus," he said.

Prostate Cancer III

2007-10-25T09:44:00.000-07:00

Can prostate cancer be prevented?

No specific measures are known to prevent the development of prostate cancer. At present, therefore, we can hope only to prevent progression of the cancer by making early diagnoses and then attempting to cure the disease. Early diagnoses can be made by screening men for prostate cancer. Screening is done, as mentioned previously, by routine yearly digital rectal examinations beginning at age 40 and the addition of an annual PSA test beginning at age 50. The purpose of the screening is to detect early, tiny, or even microscopic cancers that are confined to the prostate gland. Early treatment of these malignancies (cancers) can stop the growth, prevent the spread, and possibly cure the cancer.Based on some research in animals and people, certain dietary measures have been suggested to prevent the progression of prostate cancer. For example, low fat diets, particularly avoiding red meats, have been suggested because they are thought to slow down the growth of prostate tumors in a manner not yet known. Soybean products, which work by decreasing the amount of testosterone circulating in the blood, also reportedly can inhibit the growth of prostate tumors. Finally, other studies show that tomato products (lycopenes), the mineral selenium, and vitamin E might slow the growth of prostate tumors in ways that are not yet understood.
INTEGRATIVE THERAPYTHE SCIENTIFICALLY FORMULATED AMINO ACID THERAPY
(Keep in mind, CAAT is much more than just a “diet”; it is an amino acid, carbohydrate, & glucose REDUCTION protocol which strategically uses the chemical reactions of amino acids, foods, and nutritional supplements to impair the development of cancer cells, thus starving them to death.) Clinical trials have already been done with humans using amino acid depravation formulas, and with much success. (Journal American Medical Association. 1967; 200:211)
CAAT is a course of therapy to control a patient’s amino acid intake. This is achieved by taking certain foods out of a persons’ daily food plan for a short time and by replacing them with a scientifically supported formula of amino acids. It is also important to emphasize that the food plan that accompanies the amino acid formula needs to be followed so not to offset any of the benefits we are creating by depriving the cancer cells the nutrients they need to grow. Also, it is important to realize that the patient does not need to abandon their conventional cancer treatment, (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormone treatments) nor is it recommended that they do so unless it has already failed them. CAAT works synergistically with chemotherapy and/or radiation to enhance their benefits (see study by Dr. Marco Rabinowitz of the National Cancer Institute). His report on amino acid deprivation, such as with Controlled Amino Acid Therapy (CAAT), proven to inhibit phosphofructokinase which shuts down the energy supply to cancer cells, simultaneously enhancing the benefits of chemotherapy while lessening their toxic side effects. CAAT has also proven to work successfully alone.

Phase 1: CAAT Formulation

The most important component of CAAT is the scientifically formulated amino acids. Based on the specific formula for each cancer, it consists of separate amino acids, citric acid, and small amounts of sodium benzoate. Each formula replaces most of the regular daily proteins found in meats, dairy, fish, beans and nuts, which cancer cells can derive their energy from. The CAAT formula taken two times per day will nourish the healthy cells while causing the cancer cells to starve to death. Of course each individual has specific needs concerning their diet, and this is explained in the second phase of the protocol as well as with a specialist at the Institute when beginning the CAAT therapy.

Phase 2: Daily Food Intake

DISCLAIMER: The following food program SHOULD NOT be consumed without the amino acid formula and without consent from your doctor and our Institute.
Breakfast:*1/2 Grapefruit or 1-orange or 6-ounces of fresh orange juice.Whey Enhanced Protein (Vanilla Flavor – Vitamin Shoppe Brand) approximately10 – 12 grams of protein – read label carefully, based on 150 lb. person ].A serving of Grits (Butter, cinnamon and other spices are okay).1 cup of green or black tea (Fructose is sweetener of choice).* Do Not have ½ grapefruit if taking Chemotherapy

Explanation: ½ Grapefruit or 1 orange or 6 ounces of fresh orange juice are rich in the natural nutrients called Limonene and Citric Acid. Limonene helps shut down the Ras cancer gene which is over active in 90 percent of all cancers. Citric Acid helps shut down glycolosis which in turn helps starve cancer cells to death.
Whey Enhanced Protein (Vanilla Flavor – Vitamin Shoppe Brand) Phosphorus is a nutrient that cancer cells must utilize in order to grow and reproduce. This brand of whey protein is very low in phosphorous and contains no additional vitamins, so when using approximately 10 – 12 grams of protein per 150 lb. person, it helps to protect normal cells, maintain a normal appetite, and also helps to fight edema. (Edema is the swelling or water build up in the legs or other sites in the body)Whey protein is included in the daily menu of all advanced or metastatic cancer patients. When treating cancers that are stable or have regressed in size, patients then have the option of including other protein foods at their breakfast meals such as cottage cheese, yogurt, or soy foods. Eggs are allowed in the diets of patients with lymphoma and brain cancers.
Grits or Cream of Wheat or 1 slice of white toast or ½ plain bagel or ½ English muffin (Butter is okay)Grits or white rice is the preferred carbohydrate food at each meal. The other choices are options once the patient’s cancer is stable or reduced in size. Unrefined carbohydrates are included in the CAAT menu instead of whole grains to deprive cancer cells of a certain B-complex vitamin called Pyridoxine (Vitamin B-6). Cancer cells require this vitamin to manufacture certain amino acids that we keep away from through CAAT’s amino acid reduction formula and diet.Grits is the preferred carbohydrate food at all meals instead of rice, corn, or pasta because it helps deplete Tryptophan in the body, which is essential for the growth and spreading of cancer cells.
1 cup of green or black tea, using fructose as the sweetener of choice. These teas are rich sources of several compounds that help shut down glycolosis and cut off the energy supply to cancer cells. Also, green or regular tea helps to prevent certain hormones and tumor growth factors from stimulating cancer cells to grow and metastasize to other parts of the body. Brassica teas can also be taken because they contain sulphorane, a nutrient that inhibits cancer growth, and also shuts down the cancer genes.* Why we use fructose as the sweetener of choice will be explained in detail at the end of this phase of the CAAT protocol.

Lunch:

Amino acid formula (4 level plastic scoops) mixed with any of the following: Water & Fructose; Sugar free Kool-Aid; Diet ginger ale; Fresh lemonade & Fructose; Chicken or Beef broth; V8 juice.Generous amounts of One cooked vegetable or a combination of the following: asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, brussell sprouts, spinach, squash, string beans.One serving (1/2 cup)of fresh fruit. Choice of: pear, orange, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries.1 serving (moderate) of grits or corn or rice or pasta (Add tomato sauce or butter)1 tablespoon of coconut oil8 to 10 black or green olives2 tablespoons of vinegar (minimum of 5% acidity) add to vegetables or food1 cup of green or black tea (Fructose as desired)

Explanation:
This Amino Acid Reduction Formula (4 level plastic scoops may vary) combined with the special diet, allows the CAAT Protocol to reduce certain amino acids in the daily diet of the cancer patient, and is designed to replace most of the animal protein in the diet. Cancer cells require the amino acids glycine, serine, glutamic acid, and aspartic acid to synthesize DNA, build new blood vessels or duplicate its entire contents of proteins. Also, cancer cells require these and certain other amino acids in order to synthesize other proteins that act as growth promoting hormones or tumor growth factors. CAAT impairs the synthesis of a protein called elastin, which is absolutely essential to the manufacture of new blood vessels. The Amino Acid Reduction Formula, diet, certain phytochemicals and herbs work efficaciously to attack cancer cells at each and every biological front.
The generous amounts of one cooked vegetable or a combination of such helps keep normal cells healthy. They are low in carbohydrates and proteins, and high in phytochemicals, compounds which help fight cancer. Patients are allowed to eat these vegetables and salads whenever desired.
The 8 to 10 olives are rich in squalene and oleic acid, nutrients that have been reported to inhibit certain cancer growth factors. The calories in olives also help control body weight and increases ketones in the blood. Ketones help fight cancer by impairing glycolosis – a process in which cancer cells depend almost exclusively upon for their daily supply of energy. Vinegar (and fructose) are two natural products that increase the production of both ACETIC ACID and CITRIC ACID in the body.
Acetic acid and citric acid also help fight cancer by shutting down the process of glycolosis.Normal cells derive most of their daily energy supply from acetic acid and citric acid, where as cancer cells derive most of their daily energy from glycolosis.

Dinner:
Amino acid formula (4 plastic level scoops) mixed with any of the following: Water & fructose; Sugar free Kool–Ade; Diet Ginger Ale; Fresh lemonade & Fructose; Chicken or Beef broth; V8 Juice.Generous amounts of One cooked vegetable or a combination of the following: asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, brussel sprouts, spinach, squash, string beans.One serving (1/2 cup) of stewed plums with fresh cream & fructose; use 4-ounces of orange juice if plums are not in season.Avacado salad with lettuce, tomatoes, celery, onions, with lemon juice and coconut oil or olive oil.2 tablespoons of vinegar (minimum of 5% acidity) add to vegetables or food.1 serving of grits or corn or pasta or rice (Add garlic and butter or tomato sauce)1 cup of green or black tea (Fructose as desired)

Mid Evening Snack: Ketogenic Cocktail – 2 ounces of fresh cream, ½ ounce each of both coconut & olive oil, 1 tablespoon of Fructose.Sugar free Jell-O with whipped cream & Fructose or 1 plum or 4 ounces of orange juice.

Explanation: The sugar free jell-o helps to appease the appetite. Plums contain quinlic acid, which is converted into benzoic acid in the body and which in turn helps to deplete the availability of the amino acid Glycine (Glycine is essential to the synthesis of DNA for cancer cells) and the proteins that cancer cells require to build new blood vessels and their tumor growth factors. If underweight take two ounces of light cream and one ounce of olive oil/coconut oil as needed to maintain weight.

Optional Meal:
3 to 4 ounces of Veal, Fish of choice, Beef, Chicken breast, and 1-slice of white bread.
Consume this meal with a minimum of 3 hours before or after taking the amino acids.
Explanation: If the patient is 10 or more pounds underweight or if their albumin levels are below normal is when the optional meal is allowed. This meal should be eaten a minimum of 3 hours before or after taking the amino acids. CAAT provides sufficient protein to maintain the health of normal cells and adequate amounts of calories to maintain desired body weight. Any proteins taken in excess of amounts recommended in the diet will counter act the benefits of the CAAT protocol.

Special Diets: A special diet will be created for any cancer patient whose ability to consume food and liquids has placed them in a critical situation. When a patient is using a feeding apparatus, or they have become too weak or lethargic to eat and drink the daily minimum amount for survival, we will break up the total breakfast, lunch, and dinner over a period of every 2 hours during the entire day until the patient is capable of returning to a daily diet as outlined above.
Carbohydrate and glucose reduction in this diet: CAAT’S dietary menu provides approximately 20 percent of its calories in the form of carbohydrates. Calories need not be a focal point or counted daily. It is recommended that all patients combat their cancers by keeping their body weight at normal or slightly below normal levels. A patient’s desired body weight is regulated by their rate of metabolism, which in turn is regulated by their blood levels of thyroxine, cortisone, insulin, and the amounts of fats and oils in the diet. Studies with human cancer patients and laboratory animals show that reducing the calories of carbohydrates (glucose) in their daily diet by only 10 percent reduced the size of cancerous tumors. When carbohydrate (glucose) calories were reduced 40 percent, the cancers disappeared. It is recommended that those patients who are obese gradually and systematically lose their excess weight to increase the efficiency of the CAAT protocol. Those patients who are underweight shoudn’t gain weight unless they are more than 10 pounds below normal levels. When a patient is underweight due to anorexia or cachexia, such illnesses must be addressed before the CAAT protocol can begin.

Why we use Fructose and Vinegar to treat cancer:
Nobel Prize winner Dr. Otto Warburg discovered more than 50 years ago that all cancer cells produce inordinate amount of lactic acid but he couldn’t explain why.
In 2001 our Institute published the first study to show that cancer cells produce excess amounts of lactic acid because they could not access the oxygen in compartments in the cells called the mitochondria. This provided evidence that cancer cells depend almost exclusively upon glycolosis or the metabolism of glucose as their major source of energy.
Dr. Spitz and Dr. Lee with other cancer researchers published studies showing that when cancer cells are deprived glucose, their energy supply is cut off which causes these cancer cells to commit suicide.
Therefore shutting down glycolosis would be one means of destroying cancer cells because energy can only be derived from glucose through the metabolic process called glycolosis.
Recently our Cancer Institute discovered that both acetic acid and citric acid could inhibit the activity of a key enzyme in glycolosis called phosphofructokinase, which in turn shuts down the process of glycolosis. Our cancer Institute is the first to introduce both fructose and vinegar as treatments for cancer because they either contain or produce acetic acid.
In conclusion, fructose and vinegar are added as supplements to the CAAT protocol because of their acetic acid properties that help shut down glycolosis, shutting off cancer cells energy supply and causing them to die off.

Phase 3: Nutritional Supplements
Nutritional supplements are based on each unique situation. For example, slow-growing cancers produce low levels of toxic free radicals. Tumor cells that grow aggressively produce large amounts of toxic free radicals. The patient will be instructed whether or not to take anti-oxidants (in a nutritional supplement), and at what dosage, according to the levels of toxic free radicals produced in the cancerous cells.
An example of how nutritional supplements can help manipulate cancer cells involves vitamin B-6 (pyroxidine) There are four amino acids essential to the synthesis of DNA. However, those amino acids cannot be synthesized without a certain enzyme, which includes vitamin B-6 among other components. Any supplement containing vitamin B-6 SHOULD NOT be taken during the first 2 months of the CAAT protocol.
The patient will be instructed as to which nutritional supplements or phytochemicals should be purchased and at what dosage strength. Keep in mind that each supplement only complements the CAAT protocol. However, when they are combined they augment the therapeutic benefits of the aminoacid, carbohydrate, and glucose reduction diet.
Parsley: Contains ingredients that can help shut down certain enzymes called Epithelial Growth Factors, which stimulate the growth and spread of cancer. ( CAAT’S amino acid reduction diet works in the same manner )

Vitamin D: Helps activate in many kinds of cancers enzymes called Phosphotases, which literally shut down the activities of other enzymes called Kinases, which are essential to the growth and reproduction of cancer cells.

Green Tea Extract: Phytochemicals in tea help shut down glycolosis (cancer cell’s main supplier of energy) and thereby help to starve cancer cells to death. These effects help complement the effects of CAAT’S carbohydrate reduction.

Anti-Oxidants: The controversy as to whether or not to treat cancer with anti-oxidants is slowly resolving with the current understanding of how they affect the activity of genes and enzymes in cancer cells. The prevailing data shows that the benefits or lack of benefits depend upon the oxidative state the cancer cells are in. Anti-oxidants taken when the cells are in a very high oxidative state may prevent cancer cells from entering apoptosis ( apoptosis is when a cancer cell commits suicide) When oxidative stress in cancer cells is only slightly above normal, anti-oxidants are then expected to stop their growth and reproduction.

Blood Chemistry: Blood tests are usually taken every 6 to 8 weeks, depending upon the results of each test. Not only is it important to monitor the tumor markers but equally important to keep abreast of the overall health of normal tissues and organs. For example, it is important to learn of the health of the kidneys and liver, whether the body is producing sufficient red and white blood cells, etc. Low albumin levels most often indicate insufficient intake of proteins in the diet and this problem would have to be addressed. CAAT is designed to attack cancer but keep the normal cells and tissues functioning harmoniously.

Whey Protein: This protein food is recommended at the breakfast meal to help meet the daily needs of amino acids for the normal cells of the body, and to help keep albumin levels normal and to help prevent edema. We recommend Whey protein purchased from the Vitamin Shoppe because it is the only brand that we have seen with no phosphorous or additional vitamins added to it.

Grits: Grits are also recommended at the breakfast meal in place of whole grains because it is low in vitamin B-6. Cancer cells require B-6 to manufacture the amino acid Glycine, which is required for DNA synthesis. Grits, instead of whole grains, therefore helps prevent cancer cells from manufacturing DNA and building new blood vessels.

Calcium D-Glucurate: This phytochemical helps the body to retain a compound called Glucuronic acid. This is necessary to eliminate both estrogen and testosterone from the body. This is why Calcium D-Glucurate is added to the regiments of patients with breast & prostate cancers. Calcium D-Glucurate is not to be confused with calcium carbonate, which is nothing more than a calcium supplement.

D-Limonene: This phytochemical found mostly in citrus fruits blocks the process called Isoprenylation, which is necessary for tumor growth factors such as the RAS gene, Epithelial Growth factor, Tyrosine Kinase, and Insulin-Like-Growth-factor, to send their signals into the nucleus of a cancer cell and directs them to grow and divide into more cancer cells.

Tocotrienols: This member of the Vitamin E family also helps shut down Isoprenylation and assists D-Limonene in blocking the actions of the various tumor growth factors. More specifically, tocotrienols shut down an enzyme called HMG-2, which is essential to the synthesis of the building blocks that form the Isoprenylation process.

Niacin: This B-Complex vitamin works with D-limonene and the Tocotrienols to shut down the process of Isoprenylation, which as mentioned above prevents the cancer promoting RAS genes from sending signals into the nucleus of the cell. Niacin also helps deplete thee amino acid Glycine, which cancer cells need to synthesize DNA. And by reducing cholesterole in the body, Niacin helps lower the production of estrogen and testosterone.

Choline: This B-complex vitamin is included in our supplement list to help the liver metabolize Niacin and other compounds and to help fight fatigue that accompanies most forms of cancer.
Selenium: Numerous studies show that this mineral can interfere with the activity of certain genes that promote the growth of cancer and to induce cancer cells to commit suicide (apoptosis)

Perilla Oil: This oil is rich in Alpha Linolenic Acid which can inhibit the growth of cancer cells in several ways. One way is to inhibit the synthesis in the body of a tumor growth promotin hormone called Prostaglandin-2, also, Alpha Linolenic Acid inhibits the actions of certain genes that promote the growth of cancer cells. Linolenic acid is not to be confused with linoleic acid, which is a bad fat that stimulates the growth of cancer cells. This bad fat, linoleic acid, is found in all vegetable oils and nuts (With the exception of coconut oil). Olive oil has the least amount of this bad fat.

Super Miraforte: This herb impairs the synthesis of estrogen from testosterone in the body and is included in the regiments of women with breast cancer.Licorice Root Extract & Pantothenic Acid: This herb and vitamin are added to the regiment when it is desirable to produce steroid like actions in the body. Also used to help patient’s gain weight and to inhibit the growth of lymphomas and leukemia’s.

Resveratrol: This phytochemical blocks the actions of a number of a number of cancer promoting genes thereby causing cancer cells to enter into apoptosis (cell death) and is included in the treatment of all cancers.

Indole-3 Carbinol & D.I.M.: These two phytochemicals block the actions of both estrogen and testosterone and are included in the regiments of both breast and prostate gland cancer.

Melatonin: Numerous studies show that this hormone blocks the synthesis of the cancer promoting chemicals in the body called Leukotrienes, and is included in the treatment of all cancers.

Artho Pro System: This combination of herbs and phytochemicals inhibits the synthesis of the cancer promoting hormone called Prostaglandin-2 and the Leukotriens and replaces the drug celebrex when liver problems are present. The Prostaglandin hormone is over active in most cancers and stimulates cancer growth. The body manufactures the Prostaglandin hormone from the bad fat, Linoleic acid, mentioned above.

Licorice Root Extract & Pantothenic Acid: This HERB and VITAMIN are added to the regiment when it is desirable to produce steroid like actions in the body. Used also to help patients gain weight and ti inhibit the growth of Lymphomas and Leukemias.
CAAT is designed to attack cancer, while keeping normal cells and tissues functioning

Prostate Cancer II

2007-10-25T09:37:00.000-07:00

What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?

In the early stages, prostate cancer often causes no symptoms for many years. As a matter of fact, these cancers frequently are first detected by an abnormality on a blood test (the PSA, discussed below) or as a hard nodule (lump) in the prostate gland. Usually, the doctor first feels the nodule during a routine digital (done with the finger) rectal examination. (Note in the diagram that the prostate gland is right in front of the rectum.)
As the cancer enlarges and presses on the urethra, the flow of urine diminishes and urination becomes more difficult. Patients may also experience burning with urination or blood in the urine. As the tumor continues to grow, it can completely block the flow of urine, resulting in a painfully obstructed and enlarged urinary bladder.In the later stages, prostate cancer can spread locally into the surrounding tissue or the nearby lymph nodes, called the pelvic nodes. The cancer then can spread even farther (metastasize) to other areas of the body. The doctor on a rectal examination can sometimes detect local spread into the surrounding tissues. That is, the physician can feel a hard, fixed (not moveable) tumor extending from and beyond the gland. Prostate cancer usually metastasizes first to the lower spine or the pelvic bones (the bones connecting the lower spine to the hips), thereby causing back or pelvic pain. The cancer can then spread to the liver and lungs. Metastases (areas to which the cancer has spread) to the liver can cause pain in the abdomen and jaundice (yellow color of the skin) in rare instances. Metastases to the lungs can cause chest pain and coughing.

Healthy Cells vs. Cancer Cells

Healthy cells are like a cat. They need structure to determine the size of bones and shape of the body, tail and whiskers. The DNA in genes and chromosomes determine this. They need energy to play and prowl and sustain life. This is derived from chemicals in food. Cats need a system to deliver chemicals (food nutrients like amino acids, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals) to all parts of their body. These are the blood vessels. Growth factors take a kitten into a lazy old cat, all the while helping it to function normally.
The body and its cells are mostly made up of protein. The building blocks of proteins are substances called amino acids that in the form of enzymes and hormones literally control every chemical reaction within the cells. When these are modified, different messages are sent to a complex control system that can alter their function. There are twenty different kinds of amino acids that are essential to life. Twelve of these can be synthesized within the body however; eight must be supplied by the daily diet.

What are the screening tests for prostate cancer?

Screening tests are those that are done at regular intervals to detect a disease such as prostate cancer at an early stage. If the result of a screening test is normal, the disease is presumed not to be present. If a screening test is abnormal, the disease is then suspected to be present, and further tests usually are needed to confirm the suspicion (that is, to make the diagnosis definitively). Prostate cancer usually is suspected initially because of an abnormality of one or both of the two screening tests that are used to detect prostate cancer. These screening tests are a digital rectal examination and a blood test called the prostate specific antigen (PSA).In the digital rectal examination, the doctor feels (palpates) the prostate gland with his index finger in the rectum to detect abnormalities of the gland. Thus, a lump, irregularity, or hardness felt on the surface of the gland is a finding that is suspicious for prostate cancer. Accordingly, doctors usually recommend doing a digital rectal examination annually in men age 40 and over.The PSA test is a simple, reproducible, and accurate blood test. It is used to detect a protein (the prostate specific antigen) that is released from the prostate gland into the blood. Most importantly, the level of the PSA is usually higher in people with prostate cancer than in people without the cancer. The PSA, therefore, is valuable as a screening test for prostate cancer. Accordingly, doctors usually recommend doing a PSA annually in men age 50 and over. Furthermore, for men who have high risks for prostate cancer as discussed above, most doctors recommend starting the PSA screening at an even younger age (for example, at age 40).Results of the PSA test under 4 nanograms per milliliter of blood are generally considered normal. (See the next two sections on false-positive elevations of the PSA and on refinements in the PSA test.) Results between 4 and 10 are considered borderline. These borderline values are interpreted in the context of the patient's age, symptoms, signs, family history, and changes in the PSA levels over time. Results higher than 10 are considered abnormal, suggesting the possibility of prostate cancer.The higher the PSA value, the more likely the diagnosis of prostate cancer. Moreover, the level of PSA tends to increase when the cancer has progressed from organ-confined prostate cancer to local spread to distant (metastatic) spread. Very high values, such as 30 or 40 and over, are usually caused by prostate cancer.

What are false-positive elevations in the PSA test?

False-positive elevations in the PSA are increases in the PSA that are caused by conditions other than prostate cancer. For example, benign prostate hypertrophy (BPH) and infection or inflammation of the prostate (prostatis) from whatever cause can elevate the PSA. Note also that a rectal examination or an ejaculation within the prior 48 hours can sometimes elevate the PSA. False-positive elevations are usually in the 4 to10 range, but they can go as high as 25 or 30. At these higher levels, however, caution in the interpretation of the test is warranted because a prostate cancer may well be present. Non-prostatic diseases or infections, medications, foods, smoking, and alcohol do not cause false-positive elevations of the PSA.The ability of the PSA test to detect prostate cancer (called the sensitivity of the test) is high. The reason for this is that most patients, although not all, with prostate cancer have a borderline or an abnormally elevated PSA. The ability of the test to exclude other diagnoses (called the specificity of the test), however, is lower because of the other conditions that can cause false-positive elevations of the PSA.

What refinements have been made in the PSA test?

Recently, several refinements have been made in the PSA blood test. The purpose of these refinements is to help doctors to better assess a borderline or an elevated PSA. The goal is to determine more accurately who has prostate cancer and who has a false-positive elevation of the PSA from another condition. In other words, the purpose of the improvements is to improve the sensitivity and the specificity of the test.One refinement is called the PSA ratio. This ratio is determined by dividing the amount of PSA that circulates freely in the blood stream by the amount of PSA that is bound to proteins in the blood stream. Research has shown the PSA that circulates freely in the blood tends to be associated with benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) whereas the PSA that is bound to protein tends to be linked with prostate cancer. Thus, a high PSA ratio suggests a false-positive elevation of the PSA and weighs against the diagnosis of prostate cancer. In contrast, a high PSA with a low PSA ratio favors the diagnosis of prostate cancer.Another recent modification of the PSA test is based on the observation that as men age, the amount of PSA in the blood can normally rise without the presence of a prostate cancer. Thus, doctors can use what is referred to as an age-specific
PSA, especially to evaluate borderline values. In the age-specific PSA, the normal values are adjusted for the age of the patient. Accordingly, the age-specific normal ranges are 0 to 2.5 for men in their 40s, 0 to 3.5 in their 50s, 0 to 4.5 in their 60s, and 0 to 6.5 for men 70 and over. Therefore, as an example, a PSA of 4 would be considered borderline for men in their 30s and 40s, but could be normal for men in their 50s, 60s, and 70s.Yet another improvement of the PSA test is called the PSA velocity or slope. The velocity is calculated as the rate at which the PSA changes with repeated testing over time. The more rapid the rise in the PSA, the more likely is the presence of a prostate cancer. The less rapid the rise in the PSA, the less likelihood there is that a prostate cancer is present.

How is prostate cancer diagnosed?

Prostate cancer is diagnosed from the results of a biopsy of the prostate gland. If the digital rectal exam of the prostate or the PSA blood test is abnormal, a prostate cancer is suspected. A biopsy of the prostate is usually then recommended. The biopsy is done from the rectum (trans-rectally) and is guided by ultrasound images of the area. A small piece of prostate tissue is withdrawn through a cutting needle. A pathologist then examines the tissue under a microscope for signs of cancer in the cells of the tissue.When prostate cancer is diagnosed on the biopsy tissue, the pathologist will then grade each of two pieces of the tissue from 1 to 5 on the Gleason scale. The scale is based on certain microscopic characteristics of the cancerous cells and reflects the aggressiveness of the tumor. The two scores are then added together. Sums of 2 to 4 are considered low, indicating a slowly growing tumor. Sums of 5 and 6 are intermediate, representing an intermediate degree of aggressiveness. Sums of 7 to 10 are considered high, signaling a rapidly growing tumor with the worst prognosis (outcome).Gleason scores can be helpful in guiding treatment that is based, at least in part, on the aggressiveness of the tumor. The principal application of the Gleason score, however, is in predicting the risk for death from a prostate cancer. Thus, recent studies have shown that men with Gleason scores of 2 to 4 face a minimal risk (4 to 7%) of death from prostate cancer over the ensuing 15 years, while men with scores of 8 to 10 face a high risk (60 to 87%) of death from prostate cancer over the 15 year period.

How is the staging of prostate cancer done?

The staging of a cancer refers to determining the extent of the disease. Once a prostate cancer is diagnosed on a biopsy, additional tests are done to assess whether the cancer has spread beyond the gland. For this assessment, biopsies of the surrounding organs, such as the rectum or urinary bladder, or of the nearby (pelvic) lymph nodes might be done. In addition, imaging tests are usually performed. For example, radionuclide bone scans can determine if there is a spread of the tumor to the bones. Additionally, CAT scans (coaxial tomography) and MRIs (magnetic reonance imaging) can determine if the cancer has spread to adjacent tissues or organs such as the bladder or rectum or to other parts of the body such as the liver or lungs.In brief, doctors do the staging of prostate cancer based primarily on the results of the prostate biopsy, possibly other biopsies, and imaging tests. In staging a cancer, doctors assign various letters and numbers to the cancer, depending on which of the classifications for staging they use. The numbers and letters in the different classifications define the volume or amount of the tumor and the spread of the cancer. The stage of the prostate cancer, therefore, helps to predict the expected course of the disease and determine the choice of treatment.Two main systems are used to stage prostate cancer. In the American urologic staging system, stage A describes a minimal cancer that can neither be palpated (felt) on physical examination nor seen by imaging techniques. Such a tumor is so small that it can be detected only by viewing it under a microscope. Stage B refers to a larger cancer that may be palpated, but that still is confined (localized) to the prostate gland. Stage C indicates local spread beyond the prostate into the surrounding tissues. Stage D1 signifies a spread to the nearby (pelvic) lymph nodes and D2 is for distant spread (metastasis), for example, to the bones, liver, or lungs.The other main system for staging prostate cancer is called the tumor, nodes, and metastasis (TNM) classification. In this system, T1 and T2 are equivalent to stage A and B (respectively) in the American urologic system. T3 describes cancer that extends just beyond the capsule (coat) of the prostate, and T4 describes cancer that is fixed to the surrounding tissues. N1 is equivalent to Stage D1 and M1 is equivalent to D2.

What are the treatment options for prostate cancer?

Deciding on treatment can be daunting, partly because the options for treatment today are far better than they were ten years ago, but also because not enough reliable data are available on which to base the decisions. Accordingly, scientifically controlled, long term studies are still needed to compare the benefits and risks of the various treatments.To decide on treatment for an individual patient, doctors categorize prostate cancers as organ-confined (localized to the gland), locally advanced (a large prostate tumor or one that has spread only locally), or metastatic (spread distantly or widely). The treatment options for organ-confined prostate cancer or locally advanced prostate cancer usually include surgery, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, cryotherapy, combinations of some of these treatments, and watchful waiting. A cure for metastatic prostate cancer is, unfortunately, unattainable at the present time. The treatments for metastatic prostate cancer, which include hormonal therapy and chemotherapy, therefore, are considered palliative. By definition, the aims of palliative treatments are, at best, to slow the growth of the tumor and relieve the symptoms of the patient.Other factors considered in choosing treatment include the age, general health, and preference of the individual and the Gleason score and stage of the cancer. The results of the PSA test sometimes also can help to decide on the treatment. For example, a borderline elevation of the PSA (4-10), if shown to be due to a prostate cancer, suggests that the cancer is confined to the gland. If other tests also point to an organ-confined tumor, surgery or possibly radiation can be considered to attempt a cure. In contrast, a very high PSA (for example, over 30 or 40) raises the possibility of metastases. If the metastases are then confirmed by other tests, the treatment options would be limited to hormonal therapy or chemotherapy.PSA tests also should be done periodically after treatment to help assess the results of treatment. For example, an increasing PSA suggests growth or spread of the cancer, despite the treatment. In contrast, a decreasing PSA indicates improvement. As a matter of fact, a post-treatment PSA of zero may indicate complete control or cure of the cancer.

What about surgical treatment for prostate cancer?

The surgical treatment for prostate cancer is commonly referred to as a radical or total prostatectomy, which is the removal of the entire prostate gland. Since 1990, the radical prostatectomy has been the most common treatment for prostate cancer in the United States. This operation is done in about 36% of patients with organ-confined (localized) prostate cancer. The American Cancer Society estimates a 90% cure rate nationwide when the disease is confined to the prostate and the entire gland is removed. The potential complications of a radical prostatectomy include the risks of anesthesia, local bleeding, impotence (loss of sexual function) in 30%-70% of patients, and incontinence (loss of control of urination) in 3%-10% of patients.Great strides have been made in lowering the frequency of the complications of radical prostatectomy. These advances have been accomplished largely through improved anesthesia and surgical techniques. The improved surgical techniques, in turn, stem from a better understanding of the key anatomy and physiology of sexual potency and urinary continence. Specifically, the recent introduction of nerve-sparing techniques for the prostatectomy has helped to reduce the frequency of impotence and incontinence.If post-treatment impotence does occur, it can be treated by sildenafil (Viagra) tablets, injections of such medications as alprostadil (Caverject) into the penis, various devices to pump up or stiffen the penis, or a penile prosthesis (an artificial penis). Incontinence after treatment often improves with time, special exercises, and medications to improve the control of urination. Occasionally, however, incontinence requires implanting an artificial sphincter around the urethra. The artificial sphincter is made up of muscle or other material and is designed to control the flow of urine through the urethra.

What about radiation therapy for prostate cancer?

The goal of radiation therapy is to damage the cancer cells and stop their growth or kill them. This works because the rapidly dividing (reproducing) cancer cells are more vulnerable to destruction by the radiation than are the neighboring normal cells. Clinical trials have been conducted using radiation therapy for patients with organ-confined (localized) prostate cancer. These trials have shown that radiation therapy resulted in a rate of survival (being alive) at 10 years after treatment that is comparable to that for radical prostatectomy. Incontinence and impotence can occur as complications of radiation therapy, as with surgery, although perhaps less often than with surgery. More data are needed, however, on the risks and benefits of radiation therapy beyond 10 years, especially because late recurrences (reappearances) of the cancer can sometimes occur after radiation.Choosing between radiation and surgery to treat organ-confined prostate cancer involves considerations of the patient's preference, age, and co-existing medical conditions (fitness for surgery), as well as of the extent of the cancer. Approximately 30% of patients with organ-confined prostate cancer are treated with radiation. Sometimes, oncologists combine radiation therapy with surgery or hormonal therapy in efforts to improve the long-term results of treatment in the early or later stages of prostate cancer.Radiation therapy can be given either as external beam radiation over perhaps 6 or 7 weeks or as an implant of radioactive seeds (brachytherapy) directly into the prostate. In external beam radiation, high energy x-rays are aimed at the tumor and the area immediately surrounding it. In brachytherapy, radioactive seeds are inserted through needles into the prostate gland under the guidance of transrectally taken ultrasound pictures. Brachy, from the Greek language, means short. The term brachytherapy thus refers to placing the treatment (radiation therapy) directly into or a short distance away from the cancerous target tissue. The theoretical advantage of brachytherapy over external beam radiation is that delivering the radiation energy directly into the prostate tissue should minimize damage to the surrounding tissues and organs. The actual advantages or disadvantages of brachytherapy as compared to external beam radiation, however, are still being studied.

What about hormonal treatment for prostate cancer?

The male (androgenic) hormone is called testosterone. It stimulates the growth of cancerous prostatic cells and, therefore, is the primary fuel for the growth of prostate cancer. The idea of all of the hormonal treatments (medical and surgical), in short, is to decrease the stimulation by testosterone of the cancerous prostatic cells. Testosterone normally is produced by the testes in response to stimulation from a hormonal signal called LH-RH. The LH-RH stands for luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone and is also called gonadotropin-releasing hormone. This hormone comes from a control station in the brain and travels in the blood stream to the testes. Once there, the LH-RH stimulates the testes to produce and release testosterone.Hormonal treatment, also referred to as androgenic deprivation (depriving the prostate of testosterone), can be accomplished surgically or medically. The surgical hormonal treatment is removal of the testes in an operation called an orchiectomy or a castration. This surgery thus removes the body's source of testosterone. The medical hormonal treatment involves taking one or two types of medication. One type is referred to as the LH-RH agonists. They work by competing with the body's own LH-RH. These drugs thereby inhibit (block) the release of LH-RH from the brain. The other type of drug is referred to as anti-androgenic, meaning that these drugs work against the male hormone. That is, they work by blocking the effect of testosterone itself on the prostate.Today, most men electing hormonal treatment choose medication over surgery, probably because they view surgical castration as more devastating cosmetically or psychologically. Actually, however, the effectiveness and side effects of medical hormonal treatment as compared to surgical hormonal treatment are very much the same. Both types of hormonal treatment usually effectively eliminate stimulation of the cancer cells by testosterone. Some tumors of the prostate, however, do not respond to this form of treatment. They are referred to as androgen-independent prostate cancers. The principal side effects of all of these hormonal treatments (that is, the side effects of androgenic deprivation) are enlarged breasts (gynecomastia) that often are tender, flushing (like hot flashes), and impotence.The LH-RH agonists, leuprolide (Lupron) or goserelin (Zoladex), are given as monthly injections in the doctor's office. The anti-androgenic drugs, flutamide (Eulexin) or bicalutamide (Casodex), are oral capsules that are used usually in combination with the LH-RH agonists. The LH-RH agonists are often effective alone. The anti-androgenic drugs are added, however, if the cancer progresses despite the use of the LH-RH agonists. The hormonal treatments may have value, as well, when combined with radiation therapy. Studies are currently being conducted to determine if hormonal therapy enhances the therapeutic effect of radiation.Generally, hormonal treatment is reserved for individuals who have advanced prostate cancer with local spread or metastases. Occasionally, an individual with organ-confined (localized) prostate cancer will receive hormonal treatment because he has severe associated medical problems or simply because he refuses to undergo surgery or radiation. Hormonal treatment is used in less than 10 percent of men with organ-confined (localized) prostate cancer. Remember that the intent of hormonal therapy usually is palliative. This means that the goal is to control the cancer rather than cure it because a cure is not possible.

What is cryotherapy for prostate cancer?

Cryotherapy is one of the newer treatments that is being evaluated for use in the early stage of prostate cancer. This treatment kills the cancer cells by freezing them. The freezing is accomplished by inserting a freezing liquid (for example, liquid nitrogen or argon) through needles directly into the prostate gland. The procedure is accomplished under the guidance of ultrasoundimages. Actually, cryotherapy is not a new technique. Rather, it is a modification of a procedure that was tried previously, but had an unacceptably high rate of complications. Thus, cryotherapy was used in the 1960s to freeze the lining of the stomach to treat ulcers, but was discontinued because it also severely damaged the lining of the stomach.At present, cryotherapy is recommended for patients with locally advanced prostate cancer who, for whatever reason, are not candidates for the more established treatments. Cryotherapy is further being studied to determine which other patients might benefit from this treatment. For example, studies are underway to establish whether cryotherapy is beneficial as an initial treatment for organ-confined (localized) prostate cancer. The effectiveness of cryotherapy in eliminating prostate cancer, however, has not yet been proven. We do know that sometimes the freezing liquid fails to kill all of the cancer cells. Moreover, the potential side effects of this treatment include damage to the urethra and bladder. This damage can cause obstruction (blockage) of the urethra, fistulas (abnormal tunnels) that leak urine, or serious infections.

What is chemotherapy for prostate cancer?

Chemotherapeutic agents, or chemotherapy, are anti-cancer drugs. They are used as a palliative treatment (palliation) in patients with advanced cancer for whom a cure is unattainable. Recall that the goal of palliation is simply to slow the tumor's growth and relieve the patient's symptoms. Chemotherapy is not ordinarily used for organ-confined or locally advanced prostate cancers because a cure in these cases is possible with other treatments. Currently, chemotherapy is used only for advanced metastatic prostate cancers that have failed to respond to other treatments.Several chemotherapeutic agents have been used effectively to palliate metastatic prostate cancer. One such agent is estramustine (Emcyt). Another agent, mitoxantrone (Novantrone), has been shown to be effective in combination with prednisone for palliating androgen-independent prostate cancer. As mentioned previously, metastatic tumors that have not responded specifically to hormonal therapy are referred to as androgen-independent (hormone-refractory) prostate cancers.The more common side effects of chemotherapy include weakness, nausea,hair loss, and suppression of the bone marrow. The suppression of marrow, in turn, can decrease the red blood cells (causing anemia), the white blood cells (leading to infections), and the platelets (resulting in bleeding).New chemotherapeutic agents for prostate cancer are continually being studied for their effectiveness and safety in cancer centers throughout the United States and elsewhere. For example, cancer specialists (oncologists) have been evaluating paclitaxel (Taxol) or docetaxel (Taxotere) for metastatic prostate cancer. (These two drugs are effective in palliating metastatic breast cancer.) Another one of the newer chemotherapeutic agents under investigation for androgen independent prostate cancer is Suramin.

Prostate Cancer I

2007-10-25T09:34:00.000-07:00

What is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer is a malignant tumor that begins in the prostate gland of men. Over 95% of prostate cancers are adenocarcinomas, cancers that develop in glandular tissue. Another important type of prostate cancer is known as neuro-endocrine or small cell anaplastic cancer. This type tends to spread (metastasize) earlier, but does not produce prostate specific antigen (PSA), a tumor marker discussed below.
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located behind the base of the penis, in front of the rectum and below the bladder. It surrounds the urethra, the tube-like channel that carries urine and semen through the penis. The prostate's main function is to produce seminal fluid, the liquid in semen that protects, supports and helps transport sperm.
Some prostate cancers grow very slowly and might not cause problems for years. Many men with slow-growing prostate cancer may co-exist with their disease and die of something else. But if cancer does spread quickly to other parts of the body, treatment can help manage cancer and control pain, fatigue, and other symptoms.
As we well know, there are many kinds of cancer; unfortunately they all come about because of the out-of-control growth of abnormal cells.

Why is prostate cancer important?

In 2003, 235,000 new cases of prostate cancer were diagnosed in the United States. What's more, 41,000 deaths related to prostate cancer are expected in the year 2004. Thus, prostate cancer is the most common malignancy in American men and the second leading cause of deaths from cancer, after lung cancer. Most experts in this field, therefore, recommend that beginning at age 40, all men should undergo yearly screening for prostate cancer.

What causes prostate cancer?

The cause of prostate cancer is unknown, but the cancer is thought not to be related to benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). The risk (predisposing) factors for prostate cancer include advancing age, genetics (heredity), hormonal influences, and such environmental factors as toxins, chemicals, and industrial products. The chances of developing prostate cancer increase with age. Thus, prostate cancer under age 40 is extremely rare, while it is common in men older than 80 years of age. As a matter of fact, some studies have suggested that among men over 80, between 50 and 80 percent of them may have prostate cancer!Genetics (heredity), as just mentioned, plays a role in the risk of developing a prostate cancer. For example, black American men have a higher risk of getting prostate cancer than do Japanese or white American men. Environment, diet, and other unknown factors, however, can modify such genetic predispositions. For example, prostate cancer is uncommon in Japanese men living in their native Japan. However, when these men move to the United States, their incidence of prostate cancer rises significantly. Prostate cancer is also more common among family members of individuals with prostate cancer. Thus, a person whose father, grandfather, or even uncle has prostate cancer is at an increased risk for also developing prostate cancer. To date, however, no specific prostate cancer gene has been identified and verified. (Genes, which are situated on chromosomes within the nucleus of cells, are the chemical compounds that determine specific traits in individuals.)Testosterone, the male hormone, directly stimulates the growth of both normal prostate tissue and prostate cancer cells. Not surprisingly, therefore, this hormone is thought to be involved in the development and growth of prostate cancer. The important implication of the role of this hormone is that decreasing the level of testosterone should be (and usually is) effective in inhibiting the growth of prostate cancer.Environmental factors, such as cigarette smoking and diets that are high in saturated fat, seem to increase the risk of prostate cancer. Additional substances or toxins in the environment or from industrial sources might also promote the development of prostate cancer, but these have not yet been clearly identified