Cancer Advances Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Researchers Admit: Chemo Worsens Quality of Life with No Benefit of Overall Survival in Advanced Stage Cancer

The AHA! Team — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 05:22:16 +0000

Dena Schmidt via NaturalHealth365 – Chemo, as a treatment for cancer, has always been controversial with many patients and healthcare providers doubting its efficacy and safety as a cancer treatment. Bottom line: chemotherapy does trigger more harmful effects than beneficial ones, in many cases. Now, researchers admit that chemotherapy can actually accelerate deterioration in cases of late-stage cancer who still have the mobility and energy for daily activities. Another study published in JAMA Oncology also showed that cancer patients with limited or moderate functioning ability feel worse when undergoing chemotherapy. Is chemo worth the effort? The risks and side effects exposed In the words of the study author and lead researcher, Dr. Holly Prigerson, cancer patients who feel good have “the most to lose and the least to gain” through undergoing chemotherapy. Prigerson is a palliative care researcher at New York Presbyterian Hospital in New York and Weill Cornell Medical College. The side effects of chemotherapy are numerous and include loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, anemia, constipation, bladder issues, bleeding, bruising, edema, hair loss, fatigue, infections, neutropenia, lymphedema, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, throat and mouth issues, nerve issues, pain, sexual and fertility issues, insomnia, and more. Other medical professionals have expressed similar concerns regarding chemotherapy administered near a patient’s death. Doctors have long debated whether the strong, toxic chemicals used in chemotherapy bring enough positive effects to justify the debilitating side effects of chemotherapy. Some have referred to this practice of administering chemo to clients with late-stage cancers as harmful at worst and wasteful at best. Cancer patient warning: Chemotherapy hazards outweigh gains and benefits The above study monitored the chemotherapy effects that 312 cancer patients experienced in their final week of life at six oncology clinics in the United States. Within this group, chemotherapy tended to be administered most often to those who were younger, more educated, receiving treatment at a university medical facility, had pancreatic or breast tumors, and presented additional issues besides cancer. They also were able to engage in their normal daily activities. To assess chemotherapy’s impact, caregivers were interviewed shortly after these patients died. Among those who had high functionality in their last week of life, chemotherapy was shown to reduce their quality of life dramatically, even beyond the impact of being in intensive care or on a ventilator. A lower quality of life was reported versus similar patients who didn’t receive chemo. Sound the alarm: Quality of life should be considered in end-stage cancer cases At the very least, clinical guidelines should be reviewed and revised to adjust for this potential harm from chemotherapy near the end of life. After all, quality of life matters in all cancer cases, and areas like pain control, addressing insomnia, and boosting mood, as well as the potential side effects of chemotherapy, should be given greater consideration. Clearly, chemotherapy isn’t helping patients feel better or live longer in many cases. While the objective is often to fight cancer and tumors with every option, terrible side effects and erosion of quality of life are a heavy price to pay. We would hope that medical professionals take a more cautious approach to prescribing chemotherapy, especially in late-stage cases. Editor’s note: Discover the best ways to avoid cancer cell growth naturally, own the Stop Cancer Docu-Class created by NaturalHealth365 Programs. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Jamanetwork.com Cancer.gov Reuters.com To read the original article click here.

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Research Links Excessive Oxalates to Breast Cancer

The AHA! Team — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 05:46:57 +0000

Dr. Veronique Desaulniers via NaturalHealth365 – A study conducted by the National University of Cordova in Argentina compared the oxalate levels of breast cancer tumor tissue and regular breast tissue. They found that “all tested breast tumor tissues contain a higher concentration of oxalates than their counterpart non-pathological breast tissue.” Information about little-known compounds called oxalates can be confusing and conflicting. They are often equated with the “bad” substances in foods, but, in reality, oxalates are neither good nor bad. They can become problematic, however, when too many of them accumulate in the body. When there are too many oxalates – they can overwhelm the kidneys and lead to kidney stones and immune deficiency. Furthermore, research indicates that high levels of oxalate in the mammary area have been linked to breast cancer tumor growth as well. The body itself forms most oxalates Oxalates (COOH), or oxalic acid, are strongly acidic substances that help plants and animals metabolize. The body’s functions form about 60% to 80% of oxalates. The other 20 to 40% of oxalates come from food. Most fruits and vegetables contain a small amount of oxalic acid, and they are found in the leaves of plants as opposed to the roots, stalks, and stems. The following foods contain a high amount of oxalates overall: Rhubarb Chocolate Spinach Beet greens Swiss chard Some nuts, especially almonds, cashews, and peanuts Some berries, especially gooseberries Lemon and lime peel Some grains and pasta (except brown rice) Some legumes, especially navy beans, black beans, and soybeans Okra Parsley How are oxalates linked to breast cancer? Oxalates are oxidizing substances. As such, they are extremely volatile and can damage tissue in large amounts. Oxalate crystals cause the formation of kidney stones, which can block the flow of urine and lead to kidney infection and bladder cancer. These crystals are also razor sharp and can cause direct damage and long-lasting inflammation to whatever internal tissues they come into contact with. Oxalate-iron crystals can lead to iron depletion. When calcium-oxalate crystals form, they can lodge in internal organs and bone. As they grow, they crowd out bone marrow, leading to immune deficiency and anemia. Excess oxalates also can chelate heavy metals. However, oxalates trap metals like mercury and lead in tissues, unlike other chelators. Excess oxalate has been linked to fibromyalgia, vulvodynia (vulvar pain), digestive disorders, and autism. The most startling new connection between excess oxalates and disease has to do with breast cancer, however. A study conducted by the National University of Cordova in Argentina compared the oxalate levels of breast cancer tumor tissue and regular breast tissue. They found that “all tested breast tumor tissues contain a higher concentration of oxalates than their counterpart non-pathological breast tissue.” The researchers also discovered that oxalic acid caused tumor proliferation and stimulated the expression of pro-tumor genes. Surprisingly, proliferation did not happen when oxalate was injected into the backs of laboratory mice. This indicates that high oxalate levels do not induce cancer tumor growth in all types of tissue. Three ways to reduce your oxalate levels Obtain calcium from natural foods, not calcium supplements. Calcium has an interesting relationship with oxalates. Approximately 5-15% of the world population will develop some form of kidney stone. Of those, 80% will be calcium-oxalate stones. When calcium is combined with foods that are high in oxalates within the intestines, the two together form an oxalate-calcium crystal that the body cannot absorb. When this happens, a “stone” is formed that will make its way to the kidneys to eventually be eliminated in the urine. The presence of oxalate-calcium crystals, which can block urine flow and cause kidney infection, can also lead to a higher risk of renal, pelvis, and bladder cancers. These same kinds of crystals can also form in the lungs, nerves, brain, bones, blood vessels, and joints. Does this mean you should limit calcium intake if you are prone to kidney stones? Not necessarily. Research conducted on vegetarians found that they did not have higher-than-normal rates of calcium deficiency or osteoporosis caused by oxalate interference. In fact, according to a study published in the European Journal of Epidemiology, vegetarians had a lower rate of kidney stones than meat eaters did. Those who consumed calcium supplements regularly, however, have shown time and again to have higher rates of kidney stones. Calcium supplementation has also been linked to both prostate and breast cancer. Stick to natural and preferably vegetable and fruit-based calcium sources to avoid kidney stones and cancer. Be aware of your protein intake. Be cautious about protein, especially if it is derived from meat and dairy. Oxalates are produced from amino acids in the liver. Amino acids are the building blocks on which proteins are made so some researchers make the connection between total protein amounts and total oxalates formed. For meat-eating women, the general recommendation is around 5 ounces a day. This is equivalent to a small hamburger patty or four eggs. The USDA states that, on average, Americans eat 30% more meat protein than the recommended allowance. Maintain good intestinal flora. According to research, some individuals have a physiology prone to higher levels of oxalate uptake in the digestive tract (thus, a higher risk of kidney stones). Although there is evidence to suggest that hereditary disposition plays a role for some people, there is also a strong link between kidney stone formation and disorders of the digestive system, such as inflammatory bowel disease, leaky gut, and Crohn’s. Could oxalate hyper-absorption have more to do with extreme gut flora imbalance than genetics? The jury is still out on that one. What is known, however, is that it is the job of specific flora, in particular, certain species of Oxalobacter formigenes, Lactobacillus, and Bifidobacteria, to process oxalic acid and prepare it for absorption. Currently, there are several studies underway which focus on the role of oral probiotics in this process. Let food work for you to keep oxalate levels in balance Remember that problems only emerge when there is an excess of oxalates in the system. The standard American diet contributes to oxalate overload, but you can also keep it in check by being proactive with prevention. Eating antioxidant-rich food, consuming citrate-rich lemon and lime juice (which experts say can help prevent calcium-oxalate kidney stones), staying hydrated, and watching your salt intake are other ways to keep kidney stones in check. Also, don’t let the fear of kidney stones prevent you from getting adequate amounts of vitamin C and D. One of the ways that oxalates are formed is through conversion from vitamin C. However, studies thus far have been inclusive as to whether high vitamin C intake actually leads to increased oxalate production. In regards to vitamin D, deficiency of this vital substance has reached pandemic proportions in the developed world, including among those who have experienced kidney stones. Be sure to get your levels checked the next time you get blood work done. Maintaining a healthy balance of all substances in the body, including oxalates, is the only way to achieve and experience true health naturally. Editor’s note: For the finest quality vitamin C and D plus many other supplements, shop LuvByNature today. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov NIH.gov Oxfordjournals.org MDPI.com NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov Sciencedaily.com Scientificamerican.com Nutrition.org To read the original article click here.

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Adding Immunotherapy to Chemotherapy After Surgery Improves Survival in Colon Cancer

The AHA! Team — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 05:43:16 +0000

Mayo Clinic via News-Medical – Colon cancer is the third most prevalent form of cancer in the U.S., and while screening has helped detect and prevent colon cancer from spreading, major advancements in treating colon cancer have lagged. Now, new research led by Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center found that adding immunotherapy to chemotherapy after surgery for patients with stage 3 (node-positive) colon cancer – and with a specific genetic makeup called deficient DNA mismatch repair (dMMR) – was associated with a 50% reduction in cancer recurrence and death compared to chemotherapy alone. Approximately 15% of people diagnosed with colon cancer exhibit dMMR and, to date, these tumors appear less sensitive to chemotherapy. The results of the multi-center study were presented during a plenary session at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting in Chicago. “The findings from our study represent a major advance in the adjuvant treatment of dMMR stage 3 colon cancer and will now change the treatment for this type of cancer,” says oncologist Frank Sinicrope, M.D., who led the study. “It’s extremely rewarding to be able to offer our patients a new treatment regimen that can reduce the risk of recurrence and improve their chances of survival.” Until now, the standard treatment after surgery for any stage 3 colon cancer has been chemotherapy. However, the researchers note that approximately 30% of patients experience cancer recurrence despite this treatment. The clinical trial enrolled 712 patients with dMMR stage 3 colon cancer that had been surgically removed and who had cancer cells in their lymph nodes. The immunotherapy given in this study was an immune checkpoint inhibitor, known as atezolizumab, which activates one’s immune system to attack and kill cancer cells, which are responsible for cancer recurrence and spread. The patients – who lived in the U.S. and Germany – received chemotherapy for six months along with immunotherapy and then continued with immunotherapy alone for another six months. Dr. Sinicrope and others previously studied patients with colon cancer whose cells are unable to repair errors during DNA replication that create a nucleotide mismatch, a condition called dMMR. They noted that these patients’ tumors showed a striking increase in inflammatory cells within the tumor, including those that express the target of immune checkpoint inhibitors. This sparked the idea of using immune checkpoint inhibitors to make the immune cells more effective in attacking and killing the cancer cells. Based on the data from this study, Dr. Sinicrope recommends this combination of immunotherapy and chemotherapy treatment to be the new standard treatment for stage 3 deficient mismatch repair colon cancer. The research team plans to approach the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, a nonprofit organization consisting of 33 leading cancer centers, including Mayo Clinic, with this recommendation. The study included patients with Lynch syndrome, the most common form of hereditary colon cancer, as these patients can have tumors that show deficient mismatch repair (dMMR). We’re changing the paradigm in colon cancer treatment. By using immunotherapy at earlier stages of disease, we are achieving meaningful benefits for our patients.” -Frank Sinicrope, M.D., Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center Source: Mayo Clinic To read the original article click here.

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Chemotherapy May Fuel Cancer Regrowth: New Research Reveals Disturbing Findings

The AHA! Team — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 05:27:38 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – According to current statistics, about one million people a year (in the U.S. alone) undergo chemotherapy in an attempt to beat cancer. Yet this toxic treatment has a poor success rate in treating most kinds of cancer, and its benefits can be short-lived. Making the picture even grimmer is the fact that cancer recurrence after chemotherapy is frequently deadly. Now, from the front lines of cancer research comes the disturbing news that one particular type of chemotherapy can actually lead to cancer regrowth and recurrence. One approach to treating cancer creates a breeding ground for cancer stem cells Chemotherapy-induced senescence, often touted as a new weapon in cancer therapy, involves “putting cancer cells to sleep.” The protocol is intended to place cancer cells in a state of arrested growth, where they are alive but not dividing. While senescence is supposed to prevent further cancerous growth, new research shows that it can serve as a sort of “nursery” and safe harbor for cancer stem cells – the most dangerous and treatment-resistant type of cancer cells. A pair of recent studies reveal the consequences of therapy-induced senescence. In an explosive article published in Frontiers in Oncology, Markus Schosserer, Ph.D., wrote that there is ample evidence that senescent cancer cells can produce inflammatory molecules that promote a rich environment for cancer regrowth. In a breakthrough German study published in Nature, the team presented startling conclusions: senescence not only helps cancer cells avoid death but actually transforms them into cancer stem cells. This is very bad news, as stem cells – which can break from a tumor and metastasize throughout the body – are also the most resistant to treatment. Cancer cells can “outmaneuver” induced senescence In the German study, researchers examined human lymphoma cells treated with drugs to induce senescence and discovered they were developing “stemness.” In other words, the lymphoma cells started to express genes vital for maintaining stem cell function. When the team “released” the cancer cells from senescence, they discovered an alarming outcome. The cells began to multiply again – and more rapidly than those that had not become senescent. Although senescence is supposed to be irreversible, the team found evidence that cancer cells can escape it on their own – without the help of the genetic manipulation they used. Testament to this unfortunate possibility is that the scientists found more previously senescent stem cells in tumor patients after lymphoma recurred than had existed in the same individuals when they received their initial treatment. This demonstrated to the scientists that at least some cells had “figured out” how to outwit senescence. Noted professor of experimental oncology Dr. Jan Paul Medema commented, ‘There is compelling evidence … that … when cancer cells escape from senescence, they have an enhanced ability to drive tumor growth.’ Study leader Dr. Clemens A. Schmitt reported that switching off a specific cell signaling pathway could work to neutralize stemness in the previously senescent cells. However, there is no doubt that the study findings pose a definite setback for a formerly promising protocol. In addition, other studies have emerged showing that chemotherapy can do more harm than good. Chemotherapy for breast cancer can spread cancer cells A common protocol for breast cancer patients is to surgically remove tumors after chemo has been administered. The theory is that the chemo will help shrink the tumor while preventing the spread of cancer throughout the body. However, the treatment may accomplish the opposite effect. The toxic chemo drugs may actually switch on a repair mechanism – creating more blood vessel pathways and permitting tumors to grow back even stronger. In a study at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, researchers found that chemotherapy triggered the circulation of more cancer cells throughout the lungs and the body. Chemotherapy features toxic side effects The American Cancer Society acknowledges that chemotherapy damages healthy cells – and reports that chemotherapy side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, anemia, hair loss, fertility problems, chronic fatigue, and infections. Neutropenia, the most serious side effect, involves the depletion of white blood cells needed to fight diseases and infections. Weight changes and mood changes – with depression, memory loss, and inability to concentrate – may also occur. Normal cells damaged by chemotherapy Normal cells most likely to be damaged by chemotherapy are cells in hair follicles, blood-forming cells in the bone marrow, cells in the mouth and digestive tract, and cells in the reproductive system. Experts report that in some situations – for example, the early stages of colorectal cancer – chemotherapy has been shown to provide some benefit, granting extra years of life. But on the whole, chemotherapy yields disappointing results and may even exacerbate cancer cell growth – as shown in this pair of startling studies. Editor’s note: Discover the many natural ways to stop cancer cell growth, own the Stop Cancer Docu-Class created by NaturalHealth365 Programs. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Medicalnewstoday.com Sciencedaily.com Cancer.org To read the original article click here.

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Curcumin Stops Cancer Cell Growth, New Research Confirms

The AHA! Team — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 05:24:05 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – With its spiky purple flowers and dull green leaves, milk thistle may appear to be nothing more than an ordinary weed growing wild in vacant lots and fields. Turmeric, a kitchen spice from India and Southeast Asia, has long been treasured by natural healers for its ability to fight inflammation, regulate blood sugar, and combat infections. But turmeric benefits extend even beyond these traditional uses. Ongoing research suggests that its active ingredient – a plant pigment known as curcumin – could be a valuable weapon in the fight against cancer. Many studies have supported turmeric’s anticancer effects, including its ability to reduce the number and size of tumors. However, studies also revealed a dramatic and encouraging “twist:” turmeric can potentially target several particularly aggressive and lethal forms of cancer while leaving noncancerous cells unharmed. For instance, recent research has shown that curcumin may help fight colorectal cancer by influencing how cancer cells clean out damaged parts (autophagy) and self-destruct when unhealthy (apoptosis), offering new hope in combating this common and deadly disease. An international team of scientists concludes that curcumin inhibits an enzyme involved in carcinogenesis Researchers at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, Peking University, and Zhejiang University collaborated on a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The researchers used multiple models to show that turmeric can powerfully inhibit a specific enzyme called DYRK2 (or dual-specificity tyrosine-regulated kinase 2). The team used cutting-edge X-ray crystallography to obtain 3D images – in which curcumin could be seen binding to the enzyme at the atomic level. This is significant because binding to and inhibiting DYRK2 impairs the activity of proteasomes – protein complexes involved in cancer development. The team noted that inhibiting proteasome activity in cancer cells interfered with proliferation, reducing tumors, slower cancer growth, and an overall lessening of the cancer burden. Curcumin targets the “Achilles heel” of lethal cancers Some cancers – including triple-negative breast cancer and multiple myeloma – are classified by scientists as “proteasome-addicted,” meaning they are dependent on proteasome complexes. Impairing the activity of the proteasome inhibits tumor development, leading scientists to theorize that this dependency may well be the “Achilles’ heel” of these aggressive, hard-to-treat cancers. Pharmaceutical proteasome inhibitors have already been developed and approved, but there is a catch: these medications damage noncancerous cells. In response, resourceful researchers have been focusing on inhibiting proteasome activity by identifying and manipulating proteasome regulators. This is where the power of turmeric comes into play. By depleting DYRK2, curcumin suppresses proteasome activity – with very little damage to healthy cells in the area. Curcumin strengthens the cancer-fighting effects of pharmaceutical proteasome inhibitors – meaning that smaller dosages – and fewer side effects – may be possible. When used with carfilzomib – an FDA-approved proteasome inhibitor used to treat multiple myeloma – curcumin increased apoptosis (cancer cell death) – while causing minimal harm to healthy cells. Curcumin uses multiple pathways to target cancer If curcumin’s only cancer-fighting abilities were impairing the DYRK2 enzyme and inhibiting proteasome activity, it would still be a promising area for study in cancer prevention and treatment. However, curcumin has an impressive variety of cancer-fighting pathways. Curcumin helps inhibit angiogenesis, the growth and development of new blood vessels to nourish and support tumors. It also “switches off” genes that promote tumor development while helping the immune system identify and destroy malignant cells. In addition, curcumin can help to protect your DNA from potentially cancer-causing mutations caused by radiation and environmental toxins. It also suppresses the production of MMPs or matrix metalloproteinases. These enzymes attack the extracellular matrix and facilitate the invasion of cancer cells. Finally, by reducing the production of adhesion molecules that cling to cell walls, curcumin stops cancer cells from settling in place – effectively “throwing a monkey wrench” into the ability of cancer cells to metastasize. Additional research supports curcumin’s effectiveness. In one study, curcumin supplementation caused a 36 percent reduction in the size of lung tumors. In another, it caused a 40 percent decrease in the development of colon tumors. And – in one particularly promising clinical study – curcumin cut the growth rate of prostate-specific androgen (a marker of tumor progression) in half. How can I take curcumin? Study co-author Sourav Banerjee, Ph.D., a postdoctoral scholar at UCSD School of Medicine, remarked on curcumin’s “chemical drawbacks,” noting that orally administered curcumin is broken down and eliminated by the human body very quickly. Dr. Banerjee says, “It (curcumin) needs to be modified to enter the bloodstream and stay in the body long enough to target the cancer.” This is why experts say that adding turmeric to food may not provide enough bioavailable curcumin to obtain therapeutic results. The best option currently is to seek a high-quality, high-potency organic curcumin extract standardized to contain at least 95 percent curcuminoids. Note: Do not attempt to treat cancer or any other serious medical condition with turmeric or curcumin without the guidance of a qualified doctor. Before supplementing with curcumin, get the go-ahead from your trusted holistic healthcare provider. Simply put, as scientists continue to discover curcumin’s multiple effects against cancer, this amazing flavonoid seems destined to play a major role in natural cancer therapies and cancer prevention. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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Cancers Can Be Detected in the Bloodstream Three Years Prior to Diagnosis

The AHA! Team — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 05:20:22 +0000

Johns Hopkins Medicine via Newswise – The study, partly funded by the National Institutes of Health, was published May 22 in Cancer Discovery. Genetic material shed by tumors can be detected in the bloodstream three years prior to cancer diagnosis, according to a study led by investigators at the Ludwig Center at Johns Hopkins, Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center, the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. The study, partly funded by the National Institutes of Health, was published May 22 in Cancer Discovery. Investigators were surprised they could detect cancer-derived mutations in the blood so much earlier, says lead study author Yuxuan Wang, M.D., Ph.D., an assistant professor of oncology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. “Three years earlier provides time for intervention. The tumors are likely to be much less advanced and more likely to be curable.” To determine how early cancers could be detected prior to clinical signs or symptoms, Wang and colleagues assessed plasma samples that were collected for the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study, a large National Institutes of Health-funded study to investigate risk factors for heart attack, stroke, heart failure and other cardiovascular diseases. They used highly accurate and sensitive sequencing techniques to analyze blood samples from 26 participants in the ARIC study who were diagnosed with cancer within six months after sample collection, and 26 from similar participants who were not diagnosed with cancer. At the time of blood sample collection, eight of these 52 participants scored positively on a multicancer early detection (MCED) laboratory test. All eight were diagnosed within four months following blood collection. For six of the eight individuals, investigators also were able to assess additional blood samples collected 3.1–3.5 years prior to diagnosis, and in four of these cases, tumor-derived mutations could also be identified in samples taken at the earlier timepoint. MCED tests “This study shows the promise of MCED tests in detecting cancers very early, and sets the benchmark sensitivities required for their success,” says Bert Vogelstein, M.D., Clayton Professor of Oncology, co-director of the Ludwig Center at Johns Hopkins and a senior author on the study. Detecting cancers years before their clinical diagnosis “Detecting cancers years before their clinical diagnosis could help provide management with a more favorable outcome,” adds Nickolas Papadopoulos, Ph.D., professor of oncology, Ludwig Center investigator and senior author of the study. “Of course, we need to determine the appropriate clinical follow-up after a positive test for such cancers.” The study was supported in part by National Institutes of Health grant #s R21NS113016, RA37CA230400, U01CA230691, P30 CA 06973, DRP 80057309, and U01 CA164975. Additional funding was provided by the Virginia and D.K. Ludwig Fund for Cancer Research, the Commonwealth Fund, the Thomas M Hohman Memorial Cancer Research Fund, The Sol Goldman Sequencing Facility at Johns Hopkins, The Conrad R. Hilton Foundation, the Benjamin Baker Endowment, Swim Across America, Burroughs Wellcome Career Award for Medical Scientists, Conquer Cancer – Fred J. Ansfield, MD, Endowed Young Investigator Award, and The V Foundation for Cancer Research. The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities study has been funded in whole or in part with federal funds from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, under contract numbers 75N92022D00001, 75N92022D00002, 75N92022D00003, 75N92022D00004, and 75N92022D00005. To read the original article click here.

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Early Detection of Melanoma

The AHA! Team — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 05:23:11 +0000

Georgia M. Beasley, MD, MHSc, via Duke Health – Melanoma can be cured if detected early. Here, Georgia M. Beasley, MD, MHSc, a surgical oncologist at Duke Health, talks about what to look for and how to know if you are at high risk. How to Detect Melanoma Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer, responsible for the majority of all skin cancer deaths. Close to 100,000 new melanomas will be diagnosed this year. Fortunately, these cancers are usually curable if detected early. According to Dr. Beasley, patients diagnosed in the earliest stage of melanoma have over a 90% survival rate at five years, while those diagnosed at the most advanced stage have a 20 to 30% survival rate. Early detection is not always easy. Of all the moles in the United States, only one in 20,000 to 200,000 is a melanoma, so searching for an early-stage melanoma is a lot like looking for a needle in a haystack. The commonly recommended “ABCD” detection technique — looking for moles that are asymmetrical, have an irregular border, have uneven color, or a diameter larger than a pencil eraser — is quite helpful in detecting advanced melanomas, but to catch these cancers earlier, it’s important to take additional steps. Understand Your Risk Profile About half of melanomas occur in just 1 to 5% of the population. The average age of people when it is diagnosed is 65. But melanoma is not uncommon even among those younger than 30, said Dr. Beasley. In fact, it’s one of the most common cancers in young adults, especially young women. High-risk groups include people who have: A personal or family history of melanoma (two or more close relatives who have been diagnosed with invasive melanoma) Dysplastic (atypical) moles Numerous moles (generally more than 50) If you have one or more of these traits, regular skin checks may help save your life. Look Beyond Your Moles Many people are told that they have “pre-cancerous” moles, but this is a poor term: dysplastic (or atypical) moles may never progress to melanoma, and instead, are better considered a risk marker for melanoma. At least half of melanomas appear in normal skin. Look for Moles that Don’t Match Everyone’s moles are different, explained Dr. Beasley, so it’s hard to come up with a blanket description of normal moles versus early melanomas. If you see a new mole that looks different than your other (average) moles — a different color, irregular shape, a more pronounced border — you should have that different mole checked by a doctor. Look for Changes in Your Moles Identifying changing moles is one of the keys to early detection. All moles are new at some point, especially in young adults, so a new or enlarged mole is not necessarily a melanoma. However, if you note a changing mole, it is appropriate to seek medical advice. Don’t Rely on Memory If you have had a previous melanoma, dysplastic moles, or numerous moles, Dr. Beasley recommends asking your doctor about total-body photography. Instead of relying on memory to determine whether a mole has changed or is new, Duke dermatologists offer total-body photography to provide a baseline for comparison at future examinations. Total body photography CDs can be used in the clinic and at home to allow for comparisons. Heed Your Own Concerns If you are concerned about an area on your skin, that is enough reason for your doctor to be concerned as well. Don’t hesitate to ask for a second opinion if needed. To read the original article click here.

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Cancer Patients Benefit Greatly from the Right Type of Exercise, New Research Reveals

The AHA! Team — Fri, 23 May 2025 05:09:16 +0000

Sara Middleton via NaturalHealth365 – It’s safe to say that most American adults need to exercise more. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, about 80% of adults and adolescents fail to meet the daily recommended requirements for aerobic and/or muscle-strengthening exercise. It’s a grim statistic, considering that the many physical and mental benefits of exercise are well-documented, including the prevention of health problems like, heart disease, obesity, and cancer. Two recent studies highlight the profound impact of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on cancer. Research published in the Journal of Physiology found that HIIT prevents cancer and can also slow tumor growth by increasing beneficial immune responses. Additionally, a 2023 randomized controlled trial in the Journal of Sport and Health Science revealed that HIIT significantly improves cardiovascular fitness, quality of life, and emotional well-being in breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant endocrine therapy. Research results: A single HIIT session has a positive effect on cancer cells Research already shows physical activity improves outcomes for people with cancer. In one study, researchers set out to determine how exactly exercise can offer this type of beneficial effect. The researchers specifically wanted to understand how high-intensity interval training, or HIIT, affected people with colon cancer. HIIT is defined as short bursts of intense exercise followed by periods of rest. For their study, the researchers had 20 colon cancer survivors participate in HIIT exercise sessions. One session was defined as four-by-four minutes of work at 85–95% peak heart rate. The researchers then measured the participants’ blood serum levels. Half of the participants had their serum levels checked immediately before, immediately after, and 120 minutes after a HIIT session. The other half had their serum levels checked before the intervention and four weeks later (after 12 sessions). The authors found something promising: In the blood samples taken immediately after a HIIT session (but not while at rest 120 minutes later), the number of colon cancer cells decreased, and the number of cytokines (immune cells that help fight off infection and modulate inflammation) increased, including a cytokine called tumor necrosis factor-alpha (necrosis means cell death). The authors summarize their major takeaway as follows: “Repetitive exposure to these acute effects [of HIIT training] may contribute to the relationship between exercise and improved colorectal cancer survival.” In other words, if you regularly participate in HIIT exercise, you’ll get repeated exposure to the beneficial immune system changes that are present immediately after your workout! This is good news whether you’re currently being treated for cancer or simply trying to prevent it. How to get more HIIT into your weekly exercise routine Only 1 in 3 Americans get the recommended weekly physical activity (even though gym memberships have climbed steadily over the past two decades). But while modern life may seem ill-suited to a life of exercise and movement (we sit in chairs all day and too often plug into television and social media), adding in a few HIIT sessions to your week is relatively easy: They don’t require much time. If done correctly, you can get a great workout. The “high intensity” portion of the exercise session typically is 15 seconds – 4 minutes in duration, depending on your fitness level. They don’t require a lot of equipment. You can use simple bodyweight movements done in your living room. Movements like spinning on a stationary bike, squats, lunges or even “burpees” (squat, push-up and jump) can work well for you. High intensity movement is followed up with easier movement for the same amount of time (or longer – if needed – depending on your fitness level). This type of exercise can even accelerate weight loss for you. In fact, you burn a large amount of calories during AND after a HIIT session, thanks to a phenomenon known as excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC). The higher the exercise intensity, the greater the EPOC effect. So, while HIIT sessions are somewhat challenging, they’ll be over quickly – and they’re as effective as they are short-lived, making them a great value for your effort! Remember, we always recommend speaking with your physician or a qualified health coach before starting a new exercise routine. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Wiley.com ACEFitness.org MayoClinic.org Cancer.org HHS.gov Statista.com To read the original article click here.

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Brain Imaging + Virtual Reality Shows Promise for Effectively Managing Cancer Pain

The AHA! Team — Wed, 14 May 2025 05:38:10 +0000

Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center via Newswise – Roswell Park-led study takes a significant step toward relief without opioids Highlights Advanced brain imaging gauges pain objectively Virtual-reality relaxation program found clinically effective for pain relief More than 75% of patients who used VR reported a decrease in pain A clinical research study Newswise — BUFFALO, N.Y. — A clinical research study led by Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center has identified a way to objectively measure pain in cancer patients and treat it effectively without opioids. Published in Scientific Reports, the study advances the goal of better managing cancer pain using a non-invasive brain imaging technology and a non-drug treatment that incorporates virtual reality (VR). The project was led by principal investigator Somayeh Besharat Shafiei, PhD, Assistant Professor of Oncology in Roswell Park’s Department of Urology, and co-investigator Oscar de Leon-Casasola, MD, Chief of Pain Medicine at Roswell Park, and included team members from Roswell Park and the University of Guelph in Ontario. A new strategy They propose and assess a new strategy combining brain imaging with the use of functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) — a way to gauge the severity of pain using a head cap fitted with optical sensors — and the use of virtual reality to provide pain relief. All participants wore fNIRS head caps to record brain activity by measuring changes in blood oxygenation and deoxygenation. This made it possible for the researchers to identify brain-based biomarkers that distinguish between three levels of pain: no/mild, moderate and severe. Some participants also used VR headsets equipped with software that allowed them to explore realistic underwater scenes. The researchers believe VR may influence a person’s perception of pain by modulating pain-related neural circuits in the regions of the brain. The study enrolled 147 participants, including: 13 healthy patients, who wore fNIRS head caps for 10 minutes 93 cancer patients experiencing pain, who wore fNIRS head caps for 10 minutes 41 cancer patients experiencing pain, who wore fNIRS head caps and VR headsets for a total of 29 minutes —10 minutes before VR, nine minutes during VR and 10 minutes after VR Of the pain-afflicted cancer patients who used the VR program, more than 75% self-reported a decrease in pain — indicating a noticeable improvement well beyond the clinically relevant threshold of 30%. Results of the brain imaging suggest that VR has an effect on both the cognitive and emotional aspects of pain. “This study signals a new era in precision medicine where neuroimaging and digital therapeutics revolutionize pain assessment and treatment,” says Dr. Besharat Shafiei, first author of the study, who notes that an estimated 60-80% of cancer pain is not properly managed. “This combination therapy could reshape clinical pain management protocols, reduce reliance on opioids, and improve the quality of life for millions of cancer patients worldwide.” To read the original article click here.

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