Author Archives: Administrator

Jimmy Castor Loses Battle with Cancer

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Popular for his R&B percussion, saxophone and singing performances in the 1970s, Jimmy Castor passed away on January 16th. Born on January 23, 1940, James Walter Castor ultimately died of cardiac failure in a hospital in Nevada at the age of 71. The talented songwriter, singer and instrumentalist had been hospitalized since November before undergoing quadruple bypass heart surgery on top of cancer. The type of cancer Castor suffered as well as type of treatment …is being kept private. His beloved wife, four children and eight grandchildren survive him. Castor was the bandleader of the Jimmy Castor Bunch, a group

Joe Paterno Loses Battle with Lung Cancer

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Legendary college football coach Joseph Vincent Paterno lost his battle with lung cancer… on January 22, 2012. He held the record for the most victories by an NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) football coach with 409 wins. Former President George H. W. Bush’s tribute encapsulated Paterno’s famed athletic accomplishments, philanthropy and overall legacy by saying that Paterno was “an outstanding American who was respected not only on the field of play but in life generally…and he was, without a doubt, a true icon in the world of sports”. Paterno was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame

Federal Judge Allows Lawsuit Against Anti-Miscarriage Drugs for Cancer Link

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Between 1938 and the early 1970’s, up to six million women worldwide were prescribed Diethylstilbestrol (DES)…, a synthetic hormone meant to prevent a miscarriage. On January 19, 2012, fifty three woman were given the green light in a Boston based Federal Court to move forward with a lawsuit against 14 pharmaceutical manufacturers who made DES, claiming that their exposure to DES in utero has caused cancer. After a two-hour final hearing, Magistrate Judge Marianne B. Bowler denied the motion to dismiss made by the drug companies. The drug companies argued that the opinions of the women’s experts were not

What if Asbestos Causes Cancer…Twice?

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Asbestos related Mesothelioma is a well known legal issue, in large part due to heavy advertising by law firms seeking to bring legal claims on behalf of injured parties. One common issue that arises in Asbestos-related cancer cases is; what happens if a second cancer develops after the first case ends? Can the Asbestos-related cancer victim sue again? The answer is not clear, and it varies from state to state, but in 2000 the Texas Supreme Court set a major precedent for the nation in Pustejovsky v. Rapid-American Corp…. In Pustejovsky, Henry J. Pustejovsky, Jr. was exposed to asbestos

LIVESTRONG Celebrates 15 Years of Cancer Awareness

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Just 15 years ago, seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong created one of the most important non-profit brands in history, LIVESTRONG. The goal of this organization is to advocate for policies and funding opportunities that benefit cancer research, as well as providing direct services for those individuals who have survived cancer. Armstrong is a cancer survivor himself, having been diagnosed with testicular cancer (technically known as embryonal carcinoma…) at age 25. SInce founding the organization, LIVESTRONG has contributed over $275 million into various programs that aim to help cancer survivors. Here’s a quick breakdown of how that

New Radioactive Cream Used as Skin Cancer Treatment

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A new study of one thousand individuals in Rome found that skin cancer tumors were completely eradicated in ninety-five percent of the patients using a new type of skin cream. And thats after only one treatment! This particular therapy is for a specific type of cancer called basal cell carcinoma, which is actually the most common type of skin cancer…. The cream has not yet been approved for use, and is still undergoing further trials…but seems quite promising as an alternative to invasive surgery. It uses a radioactive isotope and kills cancerous cells in under an hour, and

Argentina’s President Cristina Fernandez Treated for Thyroid Cancer

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Just a few months ago, Argentina’s President Cristina Fernandez was re-elected for another four years in office at age 58. Yesterday, she underwent a procedure to deal with her ongoing battle with thyroid cancer. To be more specific, Fernandez has papillary carcinoma and was diagnosed right before Christmas during a regular check up. As you can imagine, her thyroid cancer diagnosis garnered much sympathy in Argentina where people still remember Evita Peron, wife of prior President Juan Peron. Evita made a lasting impact on her people when she passed away from uterine cancer… too soon at the age of

Christopher Hitchens Dies From Esophageal Cancer at the Age of 62

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After a long battle with cancer of the esophagus, Washington, D.C.-based writer, author and journalist Christopher Hitchens has died at the age of 62. Hitchins passed away at the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas from pneumonia, which was brought on as a complication of his cancer, and leaves behind his wife, 3 kids, and many fans and friends. Most people know Christopher Hitchens from his work with Vanity Fair, who broke the news about his passing yesterday. He was quite open about his battle with cancer… (making the announcement that he had cancer last year), and thus

Top 6 Ways To Prevent Cancer

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The next time you are out and about in public, take a look around and think…50% of all the men in here will get diagnosed with cancer, as will one-third of all women. Its crazy to think about it this way, especially when there are so many simple ways to avoid the big “C”. Below is a list of some of the best ways to prevent cancer: 1. DON’T SMOKE!!!! (DUH!) Using any form of tobacco is the quickest way to get yourself a visit with the oncology wing of your local hospital…! And we’re not just talking about

Open-Source Cancer Research (TED Talk)

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We recently came across this amazing Ted Talk by Jay Bradner and felt compelled to share! Jay asks the interesting question of, “How does cancer know it’s cancer”?  Bradner, a researcher at Harvard and Dana Farber in Boston (*also check out some other amazing cancer research centers…), works on a breakthrough approach for subverting cancer … and he’s giving the secret away. Jay and his team believe that they have found a molecule that might hold the answer, and its called JQ1. what even cooler, is that instead of patenting JQ1 themselves, they published their findings and mailed samples

New Breast Cancer Drug Pertuzumab Improves Survival Rate

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As we reported earlier this week, the science community is buzzing with joy over some new findings regarding breast cancer…. A new drug developed by Genetech called Pertuzumab, significantly delays the worsening of breast cancer within most women. The study was conducted around the world, and represents the greatest advances in breast cancer treatment in over 10 years. Dr. Sandra Swain, one of the leaders of the study and Medical Director of the Cancer Center at Washington Hospital, said “”You don’t see that very often. … It’s a spectacular result.” A similar study was put on by Novartis regarding

Breast Cancer Cure Now Possible with New Scientific Discovery

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Scientists have long understood the importance of the mitochondria, a membrane-enclosed organelle found in most eukaryotic cells. Now, the science community is now recognizing the mitochondria as the new Achilles heel of breast cancer. Studies are showing that there are now some new goals in dealing with breast, and other types of tumors. The mitochondria are responsible for producing energy in cells. This works in a negative fashion when discussing cancer cells, because their power is amplified by up to 5 times the capacity of normal cells. Says Dr. Michael Lisanti…, of the Thomas Jefferson University in

Gov. Rick Perry Announces Institute for Applied Cancer Science at MD Anderson Cancer Center

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The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center just got a turbo boost! This week, Gov. Perry made public the creation of the Institute for Applied Cancer Science which is aimed at turning scientific discovery into actual therapies! Back in 2007, Perry spearheaded a movement to make Texas a hub for the future of cancer treatment…. This initiative spawned the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) which was funded by bonds approved by voters, which allowed the state of Texas to finance research grants, allowing them to attract top talent. Since 2010, the Cancer Prevention and Research

Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees Fighting Liver Cancer

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Robin Gibb, 61, is battling liver cancer and is currently receiving treatment at a Harley Street clinic. He has been receiving treatment since May of this year, and is being watched closely by his wife Dwina. According to reports, the liver cancer treatments… have thus far been unsuccessful. someone close to the family said that Robin, “has been a pinnacle of strength and is showing enormous courage and dignity”.Know for their over 40 years of recording music, Brothers Gibb, otherwise know as Barry, Robin and Maurice, was one of the largest influences on the disco era. Robin appeared on

Top 5 Cancer Treatment Centers in America

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Cancer care is a multi-faceted task, and a reputable treatment center is critical in obtaining the best service for your medical needs. Listed here are 5 top cancer treatment centers in America, in a traditional hospital setting. Not all centers are alike; some will have a higher level of expertise in certain cancer types than others; therefore, it is suggested to do as much research as you can to find the center that is highly-ranked in your specialty. MD Anderson Cancer Center First on the list is the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center… , with a

Creator of Pink Ribbon, Evelyn Lauder, Dies from Ovarian Cancer

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The daughter-in-law of world famous cosmetics founder Estee Lauder, died from ovarian cancer on Saturday. Evelyn Lauder was 75, and was well known for her creation of the Pink Ribbon Campaign, now known around the world as a symbol of Breast Cancer Awareness…. Evelyn had been originally diagnosed in 2007, many years after she had already battled breast cancer. Lauder was a huge proponent of breast cancer research and awareness, and brought forward the pink ribbon campaign in the early nineties along side Alexandra Penney of Self Magazine. She also helped raise funds necessary to create the Evelyn

5 Cancer Organizations Doing Really Great Things

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Here’s another quick list of some cancer organizations you may have not heard of: Cancer Support Community On June 1, 2011, Gilda’s Club Worldwide and The Wellness Community merged to become the Cancer Support Community (CSC). The CSC advocates on behalf of cancer patients to provide them with care that is focused on the patients’ concerns and emotional wellness…. In addition, CSC worked with the American Cancer Society, the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship, and LIVESTRONG on the development of the 2012 accreditation standards for hospital cancer programs. The American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer has just

Skin Cancer Overview: 5 Types of Melanoma You Should Be Aware Of

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Melanoma is a malignant (cancerous) tumor that is usually found on the skin but can also manifest in the eyes, ears, gastrointestinal tract, leptomeninges and mucous membranes. It is one of three main types of skin cancer; the other two being squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma…. Melanoma accounts for about 4% of skin cancer cases and about 79% of skin cancer deaths. With early detection and treatment, the five-year survival rate is over 99%. If melanoma spreads to the local lymph nodes, the five-year relative survival rate drops to 62% percent, but about 84% of melanoma

New Vaccine for Breast Cancer & Ovarian Cancer Shows Promise

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Could we one day see a vaccine for certain types of cancer? Those at the Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Biology, Center for Cancer Research at the National Cancer Institute are hoping so! Here’s the quick abstract: Purpose: PANVAC is a recombinant poxviral vaccine that contains transgenes for MUC-1, CEA, and 3 T-cell costimulatory molecules. This study was conducted to obtain preliminary evidence of clinical response in metastatic breast and ovarian cancer patients. You can read an overview of the results here…. Monthly shots of a cancer vaccine produced encouraging results in a small, very early trial of 26

Smokin’ Joe Frazier Once Beat Ali, Now Fights Liver Cancer

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He was once the boxing heavyweight champion of the world, beating the likes of Muhammad Ali, but now Smokin’ Joe Frazier has a tougher battler, liver cancer. Reports indicate that Frazier is now under hospice care…, and is weighing his alternatives in regards to cancer treatment. Frazier’s manager, Leslie Wolff, told the Associated Press that Joe was diagnosed about four to five weeks ago, and is unsure as how long he has to live. “We have medical experts looking into the all the options that are out there,” Wolff said. “There are very few. But that doesn’t mean

Singer Andy Williams Announces He Has Bladder Cancer

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Andy Williams, known for songs like “Moon River” and Emmy-winning variety television program “The Andy Williams Show,” announced to an audience at his Christmas show over the weekend that “I do have cancer of the bladder….” Interestingly enough, he also explained… “But that is no longer a death sentence. People with cancer are getting through this thing. They’re kicking it, and they’re winning more and more every year. And I’m going to be one of them.” Williams missed a few of his performances over the fall with an “undisclosed medical condition”. His appearance over the weekend came as a

“Sketchy Pink” Initiative to Raise Awareness for Breast Cancer Month

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With National Breast Cancer Awareness Month coming up in October, we wanted to ignite a meaningful initiative to raise money for Breast Cancer in a local community…and that’s exactly what we’ve done! We proudly introduce to you the “Sketchy Pink”… initiative! A partnership between Know Cancer and Sketchy Miami that will use caricature drawings to pay homage to local Miami breast cancer fighters and raise money for University of Miami’s, Braman Family Breast Cancer Institute. Sketchy Miami Sketchy Miami is an online art project that aims to connect Miami artists and the general public through portraiture. It’s a simple process:

Cancer Patients Take Control of Their Own Destiny

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Meet e-patient Dave! This riveting Ted Talk hits on one of the most important topics facing health care today, the engagement of patients in their treatment of cancer…, and other diseases. Dave deBronkart explains how e-patients are not just taking control of, but fixing health care. The e-patient movement focusses on the idea that the patient is the most underutilized resource in health care. He concludes with a mantra for this new breed of patient…LET PATIENTS HELP! Check out his incredible talk, and let us know what you think of this idea of patients getting involved:

Antioxidants, Free Radicals…and Cancer

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What are antioxidants and free radicals?… Free radicals (don’t you just love the name of these things?) are molecules in our bodies that have lost an electron and as a result are considered to be unstable. Free radicals affect other molecules in our bodies causing damage to DNA. It is suggested that free radical damage may lead to cancer. Sounds like an enemy to me. Enter the superhero to fight these villains: the Amazing Antioxidants. Antioxidants can help prevent damage to cells caused by free radicals. How, you ask? They neutralize the free radicals by providing the lost electrons to

What is a Tumor?

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We have all heard the word “tumor” and simply think of a mass of tissue. But what is a tumor, really? The definition of tumor implies abnormal cell growth; this results in an abnormal lump or mass of tissue. Tumors (also referred to as a neoplasm) are not always cancerous (malignant); they can also be non-cancerous (benign). Benign tumors usually grow more slowly than malignant tumors…; however their growth can interfere with the ability of healthy tissues to thrive. At times, they may grow large enough to apply pressure to vital body organs resulting in serious health problems.

Recent Breakthroughs in Cancer Drugs

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As long as there is the possibility for newer and better drugs to fight cancer, there remains hope. A few of the recent breakthroughs in cancer drugs are listed below: Breast cancer that has metastasized in patients who have already been treated with chemotherapy at least twice can be treated with a new drug called eribulin mesylate. The FDA approved use of this drug on November 15, 2010. Trademarked under the name Halaven…, it is manufactured by a company called Eisai, Ltd., and has been shown to improve overall survival in patients by 2.5 months on average.

Phil Mickelson – Golf Champion & Breast Cancer Supporter

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Phil Mickelson, the famous left-handed golf champion, has a number of impressive titles: winner of four major golf championships and the winner of 39 PGA events. But he also has another more impressive title: a cancer supporter. Rewind the clock a couple years when Phil’s wife, Amy, was diagnosed with the shocking news of her breast cancer in May, 2009. More shocking: only six weeks later, Phil’s mom, Mary, was also diagnosed with breast cancer…. While prayers and support were being sent out in abundance for Amy and Mary, it became evident that Phil’s world was rocked, too. To

The Know Cancer Resource Directory Overview

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The Know Cancer website is a great place to join a community in the fight against cancer. It is a support center,  a place to ask questions and a place to get general information about cancer. When you start browsing through the site, you will discover more and more resources! Particularly, the cancer resource section is huge and contains most anything you can imagine for dealing with cancer. Below is an overview of the Know Cancer Resource Directory… which will help you navigate the topics and get the support you need. Navigating through Know Cancer The site contains tabs at the top of the

How to Live a Happy & Meaningful Life

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There’s a plaque on my daughter’s wall: “Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.” I was thinking about the word “moments”. We require the use of so many of our moments in those mindless activities for general survival. You know, sleeping, eating, sleeping, eating some more. Add to that our routine activities such as working for a living, managing relationships, minding a home, planning a vacation, taking time to exercise, and the moments are used up faster than we can think about them. A cancer diagnosis…

How to Fight and Overcome Cancer

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“You have cancer.” I gasped. The doctor said these words to my husband after a week-long hospital stay which included an assortment of medical tests… to determine the source of his unexplained pain. We were forced into the battle. No swords, no shields, no plans in place; however, the battle against cancer had begun. After the shock wore off, I will always remember the next conversation with my husband when the doctors left the room to give us privacy to cry together. The first words my husband said were: “I’ll fight this thing.” Tears of gratitude poured down my cheeks.

Understanding Oncology: The Study of Cancer

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Oncology: its basic definition is “the study of cancer.” But there’s so much more to it. When you enter the world of cancer, you face more terminology than you imagined possible. It’s not a simple chest cold we’re discussing anymore! Let’s navigate some of the familiar phrases in oncology so we can sort out the medical jargon and make it easier to understand your situation.  First of all, what is cancer, anyway? Simply put, cancer is a disease where cells display uncontrolled growth. A group of uncontrolled cells is generally referred to as a tumor…. Tumors are not

Tidbits from the Know Cancer Forum – Take 3

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As you’ve probably heard by now from our last 2 posts…the Know Cancer Forum is a little over 2 years old now and is populated with fabulous little tidbits of information and inspiration! This is post #3 in the series here on our cancer blog… – where we are sharing some of what’s been said when we let you guys "Tawk amongst Ya'selves". :) Once more a LOUD KC SHOUT OUT to everyone who shares here on Know Cancer!!! Together we are changing the way we collectively & individually deal with cancer.  Check out some more posts and discussions

Tidbits from the Know Cancer Forum – Take 2

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As you may have heard in our last post about the Know Cancer Forum…we're just a little more than 2 years old now and the forum is filled with amazing tidbits of information and inspiration! This is post #2 in the series of posts here on our cancer blog…– where we are sharing some of what’s been said when we let you guys "Tawk amongst Ya'selves". Once again a BIG SHOUT OUT to everyone who shares here on Know Cancer!!! Together we are changing the way we collectively & individually deal with cancer. Check out the most next

Tidbits from the Know Cancer Forum – Take 1

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The Know Cancer Forum is a little over 2 years old now and is filled with amazing tidbits of information and inspiration. In a series of posts here on the know cancer blog… – we wanted to share some of what’s been said when we let you guys "Tawk amongst Ya'selves." :) Big ups and a whole lot of love to everyone who shares here on Know Cancer!!! The more we exchange with each other the better we collectively & individually deal with cancer. Without further ado, here’s your first gander at some topics, posts and discussions that went on…hope

Financial Assistance for Cancer Patients

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Cancer can be a financial burden for patients and their families due to the increased medical and prescription expenses incurred. In addition, unanticipated costs such as childcare, employment, transportation and household expenses all contribute to the need for financial assistance for cancer patients…. The key to navigating the financial issues is communication. First and foremost, be willing to communicate with your physicians about your financial assistance needs. They are your healthcare team and can refer you to resources available in the hospital’s business office. Ask them about the expected costs for your care before you begin treatment, if possible.

“CANCER” is a six-letter word

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My husband was sent to the hospital a few months ago with familiar symptoms: abdominal pain radiating to his back. We expected the usual myriad of tests to provide the same result we had experienced before: ulcers. Ulcers are no piece of cake, but treatable. But now: cancer. Seriously? Our first reaction was to go into crisis mode. I couldn’t even say the word “cancer” without an extra swallow to choke it down. I resorted to referring to it as the “c” word but soon realized my word games were giving it more power than it deserved. I started to…

Doctors Develop New Cancer-Fighting Drug

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According to a recent ABC News story, a new experimental drug being tested in a number of clinical trials around the country have given both doctors and patients new optimism in the battle against certain types of cancer. The drug, called Vernuraferib, is being used in several experimental trials across the United States. Doctors have discovered that certain types of lung cancer and melanoma are caused by genetic mutations within the patient’s DNA which this drug specifically targets. Melanoma patients who were undergoing chemotherapy were given this drug, and no longer needed additional treatment. Melanoma is the most common …

How to Choose an Oncologist

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Finding a reputable, compassionate oncologist who can help you navigate the scary waters of cancer is an important step in your treatment plan. Since you’ll be working closely with your oncologist, you want to be sure you do your homework and find an oncologist who is a good fit with your personality, beliefs, and desired course of treatment. Below are a few more helpful tips for finding an doctor: Ask for referrals Ask folks you trust for a …recommendation. Family, friends, colleagues, your personal family doctor—if someone in your inner circle has had a good experience with a particular oncologist,

Cancer and Your Career: Overcoming Obstacles

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You’ve been diagnosed with cancer and a million thoughts are going through your mind. Of course you worry about your health, you go on an emotional roller coaster ride and you struggle with the uncertainty that the future brings. You feel strong enough to fight and overcome cancer…. But then it hits you – will I lose my job? How do I deal with this while working full time? What do I tell my employer? How much time am I going to need off from work? During a time filled with many emotional and physical stresses, the last thing

Christina Applegate’s Courageous Battle with Breast Cancer

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As someone who made her living for many years as the sexy (although ditzy) daughter of Al Bundy on Married With Children, Christina Applegate knew as well as any actress the pressures to look good in Hollywood. Yet when she was diagnosed with breast cancer… in 2008 she decided rather quickly to have a double mastectomy. Her mother had also suffered from cancer and Christina inherited the BRCA1 mutation. Christina had a tough decision to make, but she rightly put her health above any Hollywood standards regarding her looks. The decision for any celebrity to come out about their cancer

Celebrating Survival in Style

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A friend of mine from high school is an awesome cake decorator. She does it as a hobby and always posts pictures of her cakes on Facebook. Recently she posted that she had done a “booby cake” for a friend’s “survivor party”. The only “survivor” parties I had ever heard of are the ones where fans of the TV show Survivor get together to watch the show’s finale. She said the cake was a little too graphic to post on Facebook, but to email her if you wanted to see it. I was so intrigued by the idea of a…

Winning the War in the Fight Against Cancer!

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Perhaps more than any other disease, dealing with and recovering from cancer is often thought of in the same terms as warfare. In the language used to describe recovering from cancer we hear words like courage, fight, battle, winning, and losing. Singer Carly Simon was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1997. She said that in some ways cancer brought focus to her life. She is quoted as saying, “When you actually have a battle, it’s better than when you don’t know who to fight.” The battle against cancer… does invoke many of the same images used in war. It is

“Garden variety” breast cancer?

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When my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer… last year I was amazed that the doctor called her at her office, during work hours, to tell her the news. I guess I thought these things were told to you in person, maybe with the support of a family member or friend by your side. I was even more surprised when we went to meet with him and he called her cancer “garden variety breast cancer”. I suppose that’s a good thing, but when you think of your mother and cancer, “garden variety” are not the next words you expect to

Welcoming our newest “Expert” Oncologist Dr. Wascher

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For those of you who are unfamiliar with Know Cancer’s “Ask the Expert” section…, you need to take a break from your day and check it out! This section has archives of Q & A from patients, survivors, caregivers and family members – as well as the ability to ask your own question to our on site oncologists and receive an answer without sitting in a waiting room or being poked & prodded! At this time we are very excited to welcome our newest oncologist to KnowCancer.com…Dr. Robert A. Wascher!!! Dr. Wascher is a Surgical Oncologist, cancer researcher, professor

Crossing Items Off Your Bucket List

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"As of lately in life, I've started really diving headfirst into writing a bucket list — and as quickly as I've been writing it, I've also been crossing it off. I'm a big believer in the power of positive thinking and I very much like to believe that the Zig Ziglers, Tony Robbins, and Buddhas in the world, really know what they're talking about. So it comes as no surprise that I'm a seeker outter of all things inspirational…, motivational, moving, etc whenever surfing the web…. whether it's for ideas of where in this big world to go to

“Inspiration” – by Katie Johnston

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When I first started toying with what to write about this week, I went down three other possible avenues before finally detouring to other websites that stopped me in my tracks so suddenly, that I knew I wouldn’t be choosing a topic this time, but it would be choosing me. While perusing websites, reading the news, doing some research of my own; I stumbled upon an article at random that led me to a great quote that ironically led me to even more great inspirational quotes…… so alas, here’s some food for thought today. Among the first article I

Nutrition for Cancer Survivors

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As you may already know from previous mention, Moffitt Cancer Center is based out of Tampa, Fla., and focuses on the prevention and cure of cancer. However, for those of you who haven’t heard, they are one of the world’s most sophisticated cancer centers and have a staff of physicians & medical researchers who are among the best in their respective fields. We recently did a Moffitt post about their take on proper “Diet During Cancer Treatment,”… and if you have not read it yet, you should! However, this time they are back to let us survivors know a

Diet During Cancer Treatment

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We are extremely excited to introduce Moffitt Cancer Center to the Know Cancer Community!   Moffitt is based out of Tampa, Fla., and focuses on the prevention and cure of cancer. It is one of the world’s most sophisticated cancer centers and has a staff of physicians & medical researchers who are among the best in their respective fields. As someone who has been through cancer, I fully recognize the role that diet plays in overall health and its importance during cancer treatment. … Most of us recognize that food represents much more than nourishment and plays an important role

Alternative Treatment May Not Be So Alternative Anymore

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The phrase “alternative medicine” comes with a lot of baggage.  To some patients, it offers a pathway to healing.  To others, it suggests charlatans and quacks. But to a growing number of health care professionals, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), the umbrella term for these practices, is a growing field with much to offer, particularly for cancer patients…. According to a recent report in the Journal of Patient Study, inpatient integrative medicine, a relatively new field of medical practice that combines CAM therapies with conventional treatments, has proven highly effective for pain relief, one of the most common and

Ice Age: Cryotherapy may be the future of cancer treatment

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For more than 100 years, doctors have used extreme cold to destroy and prevent the spread of abnormal tissue growth, a method known as cryotherapy, to treat everything from unwanted freckles to stomach ulcers. Though early researchers suggested cryotherapy might be effective in treating cancer, it was originally determined to be too complicated. In recent years, however, cryotherapy research has once more come to the forefront as a legitimate alternative to cancer surgery.  With new technologies that prevent damage to healthy tissue and nearby organs, doctors have started using it to treat prostate and liver cancers…, and new

Pressing Pause: The day I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer

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So often, my life has seemed to move in fast forward.  One minute I’m graduating college. The next I’m getting married and buying a house and starting a career. Now I’m quaking as I bring my first baby home from the hospital. Before I know it, I’m putting that same child on the school bus for her first day of school. Bang, zoom, zip.  All I can do is try to grab memories as they fly past, stuff them in my pocket and hope like hell they’ll still be there when things slow down and I have a moment to…

What Nobody Tells You About Major Surgery

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I have always been pretty healthy, and my hospital experience had been limited to the labor and delivery of my three kids. I’ve never even had a cavity, let alone major surgery. So when I entered the hospital early on the morning of December 7 to undergo bilateral mastectomies…, there were some surprises. Walking My first big shock of the day was when the nurse came to take me to the OR for surgery—and she MADE ME WALK THERE! The movies always show patients being wheeled down the hall on a gurney while their loved ones hold their hands

Can changing your diet change your lungs?

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Everyone knows smoking can cause lung cancer. In fact, smokers are ten times more likely to be diagnosed than non-smokers, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Quitting smoking at any time decreases your risk of developing lung cancer,” says Christopher Azzoli, an oncologist at Memorial Sloane-Kettering Cancer Center in New York….  “Quitting smoking after a diagnosis of lung cancer can improve chance of cure, improve tolerance of and decrease side effects of treatment.” But besides trashing the Marlboros, a change of diet may also improve respiratory health, suggests research at the Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute

Beyond Chemo: Reducing Stress Gives You an Edge Against Cancer

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It may come as no surprise that happy people are healthy people (and vice versa). Researchers are finding that this may be especially important when it comes to cancer. Although treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation are typically essential for combating cancer, recent research shows that psychological health may be just as important to surviving—and perhaps even preventing—the disease. Eleven years ago, researchers at Ohio State University in Columbus began a clinical study called the Stress and Immunity Breast Cancer Project. Women with breast cancer… were divided into two groups: Some received counseling on topics such as learning

Doctors Make Progress On Personalized Cancer Prevention

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With a cure for cancer still frustratingly absent, doctors argue that the best defense is prevention. In a press release from the annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research in Washington, D.C., in April, Ernest Hawk, an oncologist with The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, stated that maintaining a healthy lifestyle… could effectively prevent “at least half of all cancer deaths”. It’s an impressive number and one that could potentially be even larger if doctors are able to create personalized lifestyle recommendations for each patient in their care. New research presented at last week’s meeting brings

Food and Cancer: How To Interpret the Research

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There is no shortage of advertising and news articles about the health benefits of everything from ginger to green tea, but often claims are based on preliminary or incomplete research findings. Here are four questions to ask yourself when you’re reading about the latest health craze. The answers will help you navigate ‘superfood’ claims so that you can make educated decisions about whether or not you really need to eat, say, sea kelp. Have these claims been tested in humans? A recent study by researchers at the University of Michigan showed that sulforaphane—a chemical found in broccoli—destroyed breast cancer cells…

Cancer Doctors Recognize the Potential Benefits Of Yoga Therapy

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Physicians are beginning to understand the relationship between stress and cancer. As a result, a growing number are advising patients to practice their downward and upward dogs as they undergo conventional cancer treatments like surgery and chemotherapy. By complementing the state-of-the-art biomedical therapies of Western medicine with practices like yoga and counseling, oncologists… hope to improve quality of life and symptoms while aggressively attacking cancer cells. There are many factors to consider when deciding which type of yoga therapy is best. Here are some guidelines that cancer patients can discuss with their physicians. Finding a Yoga Instructor A properly

Cancer Treatment: Five Drugs To Watch

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Scientists may not have found a cure for cancer yet, but these five drugs could be the next best things: Denosumab Denosumab—a human monoclonal antibody developed by Amgen—targets RANKL, a protein essential for bone cell formation and normal function. In June, the drug, whose brand name is Prolia, was approved to treat osteoporosis. New research shows that the drug could also be effective against breast cancer…. Scientists have found that the RANKL protein appears to play more than a role in bone formation; it may also be activated by progesterone to cause breast cancer. Amgen scientists discovered that blocking

Breast Cancer By The Numbers: Raising Awareness About Risk

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In September, Congress declared the last week of the month as National Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Week. The resolution was sponsored by Representative—and breast cancer survivor—Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D, Fl.) who testified before Congress that “knowledge is power” when it comes to breast and ovarian cancer. “Hopefully, the resolution that we have today will raise awareness so that we can continue to catch more cancer earlier, so that we can have more survivors,” Wasserman Schultz said. Along with increasing the awareness of hereditary cancer, the week also includes National Previvor Day. Previvors are women who understand the risk …

5 Things Every Woman Should Know about Breast Cancer Screening

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In the last two decades, breast cancer screening… with mammography exams has reduced the number of deaths from the disease by one-third. Still, there has recently been confusion over when women should begin screening (age 40? 50?), and some women aren’t undergoing routine testing at all. In sorting fact from fiction, here are five things every woman should know about this very important—and life-saving—diagnostic test. 1. Don’t wait According to the American Cancer Society, women should begin annual mammography exams at the age of 40. Yearly testing should continue until the age of 70. 2. Go to a specialist Certain

From Brain Tumor to Dream Changer

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Cancer is many things. For Mark Young…, 25, it was a dream changer. Young was a college student living a charmed life. Tall, handsome, witty and talented, Young had countless friends and was the oldest son in a close knit family led by mom, Penny, and dad, Mark. As a baseball player for Norfolk State University, it seemed certain that Young was going to be one of the lucky ones who truly gets to live his dream: to play professional baseball. Baseball scouts were interested in him, and as his college career drew to a close, it didn’t seem

A Mother’s Words Help Heal Her Children’s Grief

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Losing a mother is always a traumatic event. When Omar Sneed, 22, and Sienna Sneed, 23, lost their mother, Ernestine, to Acute Myelogenous Leukemia earlier this year they were, as would be expected, overcome with grief…. Sienna had an infant daughter, Lorynn Graycee Bennett, that her mother doted over constantly and it saddened her that Lorynn would never fully know the love of her grandmother and what an amazing woman she was. As they dealt with their grief, they began to go through their mother’s things. It was during this sad process that they found something that would help

Massage Therapy as an Alternative Treatment for Cancer Patients

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The period following a diagnosis of cancer can be a devastating, stressful time for the patient. Immediately following the diagnosis, the patient will meet with his/her oncologist to discuss treatment options. Traditional treatment usually includes chemotherapy and radiation treatments to eliminate the cancerous cells. Other options that may be discussed include life style changes, diet, and exercise to be utilized with the traditional treatments. Many doctors are now also seeing the benefit of massage therapy in cancer patients. Massage therapy is used in addition to, not as a replacement for, traditional cancer treatment. Check out our directory of message therapists… to find

The Day I Found Out

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The day a person is diagnosed with cancer is one of the most difficult days of his or her life. While the Internet holds an endless supply of cancer related information, genuine emotional support can be hard to find.  TheDayIFoundOut.com features 22 compelling videos of cancer survivors, young and old, offering inspiration, insight, and advice to help cancer patients take the first steps toward beating their disease.   Currently the site profiles patients diagnosed with breast cancer, cervical cancer, colon cancer, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, leukemia, lung cancer, prostate cancer, sarcoma and testicular cancer…. The site

Movember Foundation on a Course to Create a Global Men’s Health Movement

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November is well-known as American Diabetes Month and the month of Thanksgiving. It's also Aviation Month, Vegan Awareness Month, Stamp Collecting Month, Novel Writing Month, and Peanut Butter Lover's Month.  But what not everyone knows is that November is also the month in which tens of thousands of men from around the world grow out their moustaches to raise millions of cancer-fighting dollars. The initiative is called Movember…, a combination of "moustache" and "November."  Here is an explanation of the idea behind the moustache movement from the Movember Foundation website: "The idea for Movember was sparked in 2003 over

5 Things Every Woman Should Know about Breast Cancer Screening

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In the last two decades, breast cancer screening… with mammography exams has reduced the number of deaths from the disease by one-third. Still, there has recently been confusion over when women should begin screening (age 40? 50?), and some women aren’t undergoing routine testing at all. In sorting fact from fiction, here are five things every woman should know about this very important—and life-saving—diagnostic test. 1. Don’t wait. According to the American Cancer Society, women should begin annual mammography exams at the age of 40. Yearly testing should continue until the age of 70. 2. Go to a specialist. Certain

Celebrity Breast Cancer Fighters

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Though we are nearing the end of October and Breast Cancer Awareness Month, there are still many women that will be given the hard news of breast cancer this year. Although breast cancer has many risk factors associated which can increase your chances, it can appear shockingly to many across the spectrum regardless of health, race, or income. Though there are things you can do to lower your chances of breast cancer, getting a regular breast screening… is the best way to catch it at its most treatable stages. Indeed, many women have lived through breast cancer, and use

“Living With a Brain Tumor” Conference

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With October just around the corner, its easy to find plenty of information about breast cancer awareness and all of those celebrities affected by the disease. However, there are still plenty of other great initiatives that deserve just as much attention. We recently spoke with the good folks at The National Brain Tumor Society who let us know about an important event coming up soon. The National Brain Tumor Society… invites you and your family to join us at our exciting conference, "Living With a Brain Tumor" – A Conference for Patients and Families on October 8-9, 2010 in Dallas-Ft. Worth.

Orlando Executive Health – VIP Healthcare

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Dr. Hennessy and the Orlando Executive Health team were a phenomenal addition to our Martini’s for Mammograms breast cancer awareness… event @ Blue Martini Orlando last month! We are very grateful for their support as they helped to make it a pink tie affair to remember!! Orlando Executive Health (OEH) is a new type of primary care practice where the focus is strictly on YOU. Their facility was conceived, designed and built around the healthcare needs of busy people who value their time and health, but are tired of not being able to get timely appointments and sitting endlessly in

The Center for Natural and Integrative Medicine

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I met Dr. Kirti Kalidas M.D., N.D., last year through a friend who recommended that I speak with him about his overall approach to cancer treatment…and wow was she right! Dr. Kalidas is the founder and medical director of  The Center for Natural and Integrative Medicine (TCNIM) in Orlando. He is a leading proponent of blending conventional medical practices with scientifically validated alternative and natural therapies – and he has the experience to back it up…! Read on to see how his incredible approach can help… Dr. Kalidas is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and a Licensed Naturopathic Physician. He

Xeros Dry Mouth Pump Aids Cancer Survivors

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Hi. I’m Al Toman, and I am a cancer survivor. I live in eastern North Carolina so all y’all are welcome to stop by anytime and share stories or just talk about things! If you like the beach we’re just 6 miles up the road from the white sands and blue water. If travel is out of the question, please drop by our site… and leave us your story. Your story will help the next person who’s about to go through what you already did, and they will thank you for it. The kind people of Knowcancer.com invited me to

Peapod: Who Says Grocery Shopping has to be a Chore

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Peapod began in 1989 when two brothers, Andrew and Thomas Parkinson, decided to improve the lives of others with this phenomenal convenience. Since that time, Peapod’s online grocery has served over 13 million customers in 22 U.S. markets and is busier than ever. Determined to change the way Americans shop for food and dedicated to provide an excellent experience to every single customer, Peapod has grown into an online industry leader. Peapod even allows people to easily find specific nutritional products, create shopping lists, use manufacturer coupons and take advantage of weekly specials. Need a recipe that includes the items…