Cancer 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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Hair Dye WARNING: Undeniable Link Between Hair Dye Chemicals & Cancer

The AHA! Team — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 05:04:18 +0000

Dena Schmidt via NaturalHealth365 – Surprisingly, 75 percent of people in the U.S., Japan, and Europe dye their hair regularly. Gray hair can make people look prematurely old, and hair color is used to preserve that more youthful appearance. Sometimes, people just want a change from their natural hair color, and dyeing it can help them make a ‘fashion statement.’ In truth, hair coloring is an ancient practice. However, in the past, people used natural substances such as henna and other pigments found in plants, soil, and clay. Today, most of the store-bought hair color options are made with harsh, toxic chemicals that can pose a serious health risk when used regularly over time. The dangers of hair color aren’t highly publicized Some of the risks and side effects of the chemicals found in hair dyes include cancers of the kidney, bladder, and breast, as well as blood-based cancers like leukemia and lymphoma. But don’t expect your local salon to post any warning signs soon – for obvious reasons. The “official word” on hair color products that contain harsh chemicals is far from cautionary. However, one of the common chemicals used, called P-phenylenediamine (PPD), is documented as causing side effects like asthma, gastritis, severe dermatitis, eye irritation, vertigo, tremors, convulsions, kidney failure, and coma in those who are exposed to it. Now, a new study adds to growing concerns by revealing that another synthetic hair dye pigment, 4-Chloro-orthophenylenediamine (4-Cl-OPD), can cause significant DNA damage when exposed to high nitric oxide levels. Researchers found that this damage leads to structural changes in DNA, triggering immune system reactions in those with prolonged hair dye use. The study even linked these immune responses to hepatocellular carcinoma, suggesting that chronic hair dye exposure could contribute to a pro-inflammatory, cancer-promoting environment. Some hair color products contain thousands of chemical compounds However, PPD and 4-Cl-OPD aren’t the only risks. Some hair color products contain as many as 5,000 chemicals, including lead acetate and ammonia. The chemicals in hair color products also interact with the substances in human hair to produce harmful effects. Hair colors come in temporary, semi-permanent, and permanent solutions. However, 80 percent of the market comprises permanent colors containing agents like couplers and intermediates that react with hydrogen peroxide. While the worst hair color product ingredients were banned in the 1970s, many products still contain dangerous substances. Research confirms the health hazards of hair color products Numerous studies have substantiated these hair color risks. A 1994 National Cancer Institute report covered the dangers of dark hair dyes used over extended periods. They were found to raise the risk of cancers like multiple myeloma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Another study by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) found that hairdressers who worked regularly with these products had an increased risk of bladder cancer, leukemia, and lymphoma. The scalp has a rich blood supply, making it easy for the toxic chemicals in hair dyes to soak into the skin. During the 30 minutes, hair dyes remain in contact with the scalp and can easily enter the blood supply. Fortunately, there is a better way. Avoid the cancer risk: Consider safer, non-toxic alternatives Fortunately, there are safer alternatives to these toxic products. Hairprint is a natural hair color brand developed by award-winning chemist John Warner. Instead of harsh chemicals, it contains non-toxic, plant-based, food-grade pigments and minerals. Best of all, Hairprint has a restorative effect on hair, enriching it and restoring the shine and luster that can be lost as hair ages. Hairprint products are also hypoallergenic and free of odor. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Beatcancer.org NIH.gov Oxfordjournals.org To read the original article click here.

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Ultra-Processed Foods Linked to Hypertension, Cancer, & Early Death

The AHA! Team — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 05:16:23 +0000

Lance D Johnson via Natural News – Study Exposes Hidden Dangers of Modern Diet In a world where convenience trumps nutrition, a groundbreaking study exposes the deadly consequences of ultra-processed foods—linking them to skyrocketing rates of hypertension, heart disease, cancer, and premature death. Presented at the ACC Asia 2025 conference in Singapore, the research analyzed data from 8.2 million adults across four continents, revealing a disturbing trend: the more ultra-processed foods people eat, the faster their health deteriorates. Key points: A new study reveals that ultra-processed foods increase the risk of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and early death. Every additional 100 grams consumed daily raises the risk of digestive diseases by 19.5% and all-cause mortality by 2.6%. Researchers warn of hidden additives, synthetic ingredients, and nutrient-deficient formulations in mass-produced foods. Governments and health officials urged to enforce stricter labeling and promote whole-food alternatives. The silent killers in your pantry Ultra-processed foods—those factory-made products loaded with synthetic additives, refined sugars, and industrial seed oils—are not just empty calories. They are engineered for addiction while stripping away essential nutrients. According to Dr. Xiao Liu, a cardiologist at Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, these foods disrupt metabolism, gut health, and even mental well-being through: Blood lipid imbalances Gut microbiome destruction Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress Insulin resistance and obesity Common offenders include: Sugar-laden cereals (high-fructose corn syrup, artificial dyes) Packaged cookies and candy (hydrogenated oils, emulsifiers) Processed meats (sodium nitrites, MSG) Soda and energy drinks (aspartame, phosphoric acid) A dose-dependent health crisis The study found that for every 100 grams of ultra-processed food consumed daily (roughly a small bag of chips or a sugary drink), the risks climb: 14.5% higher hypertension risk 5.9% increased cardiovascular events 19.5% spike in digestive diseases 2.6% greater chance of early death Even more alarming? The GRADE assessment confirmed high-to-moderate certainty in these findings—meaning the evidence is undeniable. Where did the term “ultra-processed food” come from? The term “ultra-processed food” (UPF) was introduced by Brazilian nutrition researcher Carlos Monteiro and his team in 2009 as part of the NOVA food classification system. This system categorizes foods based on their level of processing rather than just their nutritional content. The NOVA classification divides foods into four groups: Unprocessed or minimally processed foods (e.g., fresh fruits, vegetables, eggs, milk). Processed culinary ingredients (e.g., sugar, salt, butter, oils). Processed foods (e.g., canned vegetables, cheese, cured meats). Ultra-processed foods (e.g., sodas, chips, fast food, packaged snacks). Monteiro’s research highlighted how UPFs are linked to obesity and chronic diseases, leading to global awareness of their health risks. How do ultra-processed foods differ from processed foods? Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are industrially manufactured products containing numerous additives, artificial flavors, and minimal whole food content. Unlike processed foods—such as canned beans, cheese, smoked fish, and bread—which are altered mainly for preservation or taste and retain recognizable ingredients, UPFs (like soda, candy, instant noodles, chicken nuggets, and frozen pizza) rely on artificial colors, emulsifiers, sweeteners, and preservatives. While processed foods may still provide some nutrients despite often being high in salt, sugar, or fat, UPFs are typically calorie-dense, loaded with unhealthy fats, sugar, and salt, and lack fiber and essential nutrients. The primary purpose of processed foods is to extend shelf life or enhance flavor, whereas UPFs are engineered for hyper-palatability, convenience, and long shelf life, prioritizing low cost and mass appeal over nutritional value. Why are ultra-processed foods considered addictive? Research suggests UPFs may trigger addictive-like eating behaviors due to: Hyper-palatability – High levels of sugar, fat, and salt stimulate brain reward pathways. Artificial additives – Flavor enhancers (e.g., MSG) and sweeteners (e.g., high-fructose corn syrup) may increase cravings. Rapid digestion & absorption – Refined carbs and fats cause blood sugar spikes, leading to overeating. Marketing & convenience – Easy access and aggressive advertising reinforce habitual consumption. Studies comparing UPFs to addictive substances (like nicotine) suggest they may lead to loss of control over eating, similar to substance dependence. The solution to this is simple; making America healthy again won’t come from the top down. Individuals have to decide that their life is worth living and they have to choose to eat real foods, and maybe grow some of their own! Sources include: ScienceDaily.com ACC.org ACC.org To read the original article, click here

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Obesity’s Impact on Back Pain, Blood Pressure, Cancer, & Diabetes

The AHA! Team — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 05:26:48 +0000

Michael Greger M.D. FACLM via Nutrition Facts – Losing weight can reduce sciatica, hypertension, and cancer risk, as well as reverse type 2 diabetes. A is for Arthritis In the ABCs of the health consequences of obesity, A is for Arthritis, as I discussed in my previous blog post, and B is for Back Pain. Being overweight is not just a risk factor for low back pain, but it is also a risk factor for sciatica (a radiating nerve pain), as well as degenerating lumbar discs and disc herniation. Similar to what we learned in the arthritis story, this may also be due to a combination of the excess weight, high cholesterol, and inflammation associated with being overweight. Why cholesterol? Studies of autopsies and angiographies show that the lumbar arteries that feed our spine can get clogged with atherosclerosis and starve the disks in our lower back, as you can see below and at 0:47 in my video The Effects of Obesity on Back Pain, Blood Pressure, Cancer, and Diabetes. B is also for Blood Pressure. Excess visceral fat—for example, internal abdominal fat—can physically compress our kidneys. The increased pressure can effectively squeeze sodium back into our bloodstream, increasing our blood pressure. Together, the combination of obesity and hypertension can have “disastrous health implications,” but the good news is that just a few pounds of weight loss can help take off the pressure. Losing excess weight has been described as “a vital strategy for controlling hypertension.” In fact, researchers found that losing around nine pounds (4 kg) may lower blood pressure about as much as cutting salt intake approximately in half can. C is for Cancer. As many as three-quarters of people surveyed “were unaware that being overweight or obese increased a person’s risk of cancer,” when, in fact, based on a comprehensive review of more than a thousand studies, excess body fat raises the risk of most cancers, including esophageal, stomach, colorectal, liver, gallbladder, pancreatic, breast, uterine, ovarian, kidney, brain, thyroid, and bone marrow (multiple myeloma) cancers, as you can see below and at 2:00 in my video. It could be the chronic inflammation of obesity or perhaps it is the high insulin levels due to insulin resistance. (Besides controlling blood sugars, insulin is also “a potent growth factor” that can promote tumor growth.) In women, it could also be the excess estrogen. After the ovaries shut down at menopause, fat takes over as the principal site of estrogen production. That’s why women who are obese have up to nearly twice the estrogen levels circulating in their bloodstream, which is associated with an increased risk of developing breast cancer and dying from it. The data on prostate cancer aren’t as strong, though obesity is associated with increased risk of invasive penis cancer. Cause-and-Effect One of the reasons we’re confident the link between obesity and cancer is cause-and-effect—and not just an indirect consequence of eating poorly—is that the overall risk of cancer goes down when people lose weight, even through bariatric surgery. Researchers found that those experiencing a sustained weight loss of about 40 pounds (19.9 kg) after surgery went on to develop around one-third fewer cancers over the subsequent decade, compared with matched individuals in the nonsurgical control group who continued to slowly gain weight over time. The exception, though, is colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer “Colorectal cancer is the only known malignancy where the risk of being diagnosed with disease seems to increase after obesity surgery.” Indeed, after bariatric surgery, the rate of rectal cancer death may triple. The rearrangement of anatomy involved in one of the most common surgeries—Roux-en-Y gastric bypass—is thought to increase bile acid exposure along the intestinal lining. This causes sustained pro-inflammatory changes even years after the procedure, which is thought responsible for the increased cancer risk. In contrast, losing weight by dietary means has the potential to decrease obesity-related cancer risk across the board. D is for Diabetes. As presented in a consensus statement from the International Diabetes Federation, obesity is considered the single most important risk factor for the development of type 2 diabetes, which is the leading cause of kidney failure, lower-limb amputations, and adult-onset blindness. Ironically, many of the leading drugs used to treat diabetes (including insulin itself) cause further weight gain, creating a vicious cycle. So, again, using lifestyle medicine to treat the underlying cause is not only safer, simpler, and cheaper, but can also be most effective. If you missed my previous video, check out The Best Knee Replacement Alternative for Osteoarthritis Treatment. Coming up next? See related posts below. I continue the topic of weight control with these videos that may be of interest to you: Is the Obesity Paradox Real or a Myth? and Friday Favorites: What’s the Ideal BMI and Waist Size?. For more on back pain, blood pressure, cancer, and diabetes, check out their topic pages. Key Takeaways Obesity increases the risk of low back pain, sciatica, and lumbar disc degeneration due to excess weight, high cholesterol, and inflammation, which may restrict blood flow to the spine, and the loss of even a few pounds, can help reduce blood pressure and prevent related health complications. Obesity raises the risk of many cancers, including breast, liver, and colorectal cancer, due to chronic inflammation, high insulin, and, in women, increased estrogen levels post-menopause. Weight loss, including through bariatric surgery, significantly lowers cancer risk, except for colorectal cancer, where the surgery may increase the risk due to bile acid exposure. Obesity is the primary risk factor for type 2 diabetes, which can lead to severe complications. Lifestyle changes targeting obesity can be more effective than medications, which may cause further weight gain. 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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Chemotherapy Linked to Persistent Nerve Pain in 4 in 10 Cancer Patients

The AHA! Team — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 06:33:48 +0000

BMJ Group via News-Medical – The drugs used to treat cancer damage healthy cells and tissues, including the nervous system. Worldwide, cancer chemotherapy is linked to persistent severe peripheral nerve pain (neuropathy) for around 4 in every 10 patients treated with these drugs, suggests a pooled data analysis of the available evidence, published in the open access journal Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine. Notwithstanding wide regional variations, platinum based drugs, taxanes, and lung cancer seem to be associated with the highest rates of persistent painful neuropathy, lasting at least 3 months, the findings suggest, prompting the researchers to call for tailored approaches to pain relief. The drugs used to treat cancer damage healthy cells and tissues, including the nervous system. The effects can manifest in movement disturbances, such as loss of balance or coordination, and sensory disturbances, such as loss of sensation; numbness, tingling, “pins and needles”; or a burning sensation on the skin. Several factors influence the frequency and severity of chronic peripheral neuropathic pain, including type and dose of chemotherapy, pre-existing neuropathy, and the use of other drugs that can damage the nervous system, explain the researchers. The condition is thought to be caused by direct peripheral nerve cell damage which disrupts or rewires normal nerve signalling pathways, resulting in persistent pain, they add. Prompted by the growing number of cancer survivors and increasingly aggressive treatment of the disease, the researchers wanted to gauge the global prevalence of chronic painful peripheral neuropathy linked to chemotherapy. They scoured research databases for relevant studies published between 2000 and 2024, focusing on potentially influential sociodemographic, clinical, and methodological (study design, funding source, for example) factors. In all, they pooled the results of 77 eligible studies, involving 10,962 participants from 28 countries, all of whom had peripheral neuropathy that was associated with cancer drug treatment. In 4545 of these participants, this was painful and persistent, lasting for at least 3 months. The highest number of studies were carried out in the US (13) and Japan (10), and almost half were prospective observational studies. The cancers that featured most often were those of the bowel (25; 33%) and breast (17; 22%), while the largest proportion of studies focused on patients treated with either platinum based agents (13;17%), or taxanes (11; just over 14%), or both (6 ;8%), or the FOLFOX combination of folinic acid plus 5-fluorouracil plus oxalplatin (5; 6.5%). Pooled data analysis of the study results showed that the overall prevalence of persistent painful peripheral neuropathy was just over 41%. When stratified further, the analysis indicated that the highest prevalence was among patients treated with platinum based agents (40.5%) and taxanes (just over 38%). Prevalence was lowest among those treated with the FOLFOX combination (16.5%). Prevalence was also highest among those with primary lung cancer (just over 62%), possibly because of the complexities of treatment for this disease, suggest the researchers. Prevalence was lowest among those with primary ovarian cancer (31.5%) and lymphoma (36%). When stratified by continent, studies of patients in Asia reported the highest prevalence of persistent painful neuropathy (46.5%), while studies of patients in Europe reported the lowest (36%). Prevalence rates were similar in both men and women. The researchers emphasize that the design and methodology of the included studies differed substantially. And the overall certainty of evidence was considered to be low. Researchers emphasize that the design and methodology of the included studies differed substantially But they write: “Understanding the prevalence and predictors of chronic painful [chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy] is critical for promoting early diagnosis and developing personalized treatment strategies. “Our findings emphasize that chronic painful [chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy] represents a substantial global health challenge, affecting more than 40% of those diagnosed with [it].” And they conclude: “The wide variability in prevalence rates across different countries, continents, chemotherapy regimens, and primary cancer history underscores the need for tailored strategies to address this debilitating condition. “Future studies should focus on elucidating the mechanisms underlying these disparities and developing interventions that can reduce the burden of chronic painful [chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy] globally.” Source: BMJ Group Journal reference: D’Souza, R. S., et al. (2025). Global estimates of prevalence of chronic painful neuropathy among patients with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: systematic review and meta-analysis of data from 28 countries, 2000–24. Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine. doi.org/10.1136/rapm-2024-106229 To read the original article click here.

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Scientists Warn: Men’s Cancer Deaths Predicted to Soar by 93% by 2050

The AHA! Team — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 06:53:51 +0000

News Staff via NaturalHealth365 – Cancer is a diagnosis nobody wants to receive – it’s terrifying. While cancer rates have steadily climbed for most types, deaths from cancer have gone down. That’s good news, but it’s not the whole story. Few epidemiological studies have examined cancer cases versus deaths from the disease, so researchers have decided to investigate this gap. They focused on men’s cancer rates versus mortality, mainly because men’s cancer risk factors tend to be more controllable than women’s or children’s. What they found is concerning, but there is hope. We’ll look at their results and methods, what we can expect for men’s cancer rates going forward, and what you can do to lower your risks. Men’s cancer rates: A growing but preventable crisis The study we’re looking at was conducted in 2022 when cancer incidence was about 212 per 100,000 men surveyed. While this might not sound like a huge number, it is significant – and the research suggests these numbers could jump by up to 93% by 2050. Generally speaking, women face certain cancer risks due to their biology. The hormonal changes they experience throughout life make them more susceptible to cancers men simply don’t have to worry about – either because men lack ovaries and a uterus or because they don’t go through the same hormonal shifts. Men, however, have a different problem: they tend to make riskier lifestyle choices and pay less attention to their health than women, driving up their cancer rates for largely preventable reasons. While men don’t face the risks of breast, uterine, ovarian, or other female reproductive cancers, they tend to smoke more, drink more, and make poorer lifestyle choices than women, including bad diet and lack of exercise. These factors account for a huge portion of cancer rates – and they’re largely preventable. Are men’s cancer rates rising faster than we can handle? The researchers analyzed global epidemiological data to develop what they call an MIR (mortality to incidence ratio). They hypothesized that men in societies with lower Human Development Index (HDI) scores would have a much closer MIR to men in higher HDI countries. This makes sense – poor access to medical care, low socioeconomic status, war, disease, famine, and social unrest create low HDI societies. At the same time, countries like Australia, the U.S., and most of Europe rank higher on the HDI scale. They collected statistical data on males across several age groups: 15 to 64, 15 to 39, 40 to 64, and 65 and older. By sampling these diverse age groups and breaking them down by HDI status, they could better understand mortality versus incidence rates. The researchers then used this data to project men’s cancer rates 25 years into the future, assuming current societal conditions remained unchanged. The results were troubling. In low and medium HDI countries, the MIR was significantly closer – meaning cancer rates and deaths from cancer were nearly matched. Higher HDI countries showed high cancer incidence but lower mortality rates. This difference partly stems from richer countries having more access to cancer-promoting lifestyles, but researchers also noted better diagnostic capabilities in countries with stronger healthcare systems. One of the study’s most striking findings focused on men over 65, who showed the highest mortality rates when diagnosed with almost any type of cancer, especially rare ones like pancreatic or unusual blood cancers. The researchers suggested this might be because older men are less likely to seek treatment, have lower treatment tolerance, or lack access to necessary care due to economic factors. What the study says about men’s cancer rates The study projects a nearly 93% increase in men’s cancer rates by 2050 if current trends and variables remain unchanged. It emphasizes the critical role of wealthier nations in supporting poorer countries to strengthen global cancer diagnosis and treatment. The researchers advocate for creating a robust network of interconnected medical data sharing to improve outcomes worldwide. How to lower your cancer risk: Simple steps every man can take As research shows, men’s cancer risks often stem from preventable factors we impose on ourselves. Men are more likely to use tobacco and alcohol, engage in risky behaviors, maintain poor diets, live sedentary lifestyles, and work jobs with carcinogen exposure. We’re also less likely than women to see doctors and often ignore cancer symptoms for months – choices that can seriously impact treatment success. Nature offers many tools to fight disease, though we often overlook these natural protections. Quit smoking – period. There’s no benefit to smoking, only downsides. Lung cancer has the highest incidence and mortality rate for men worldwide, with smoking as a leading cause. Monitor alcohol intake. While moderate drinking might be okay, most men drink more than safe amounts. Excessive drinking doesn’t just harm your liver and heart – it increases cancer risk across the board. Your diet matters enormously in cancer prevention. Add cancer-fighting foods like organic walnuts, black beans, turmeric, chilies, and ginger. Increase your fruit and vegetable intake while removing processed foods. These changes particularly help prevent colon cancer. Exercise regularly – it helps trigger death in damaged cells. Consider beneficial supplements like ashwagandha, curcumin, vitamin D, and green tea. These have shown promising results in cancer prevention. Manage stress through regular exercise and meditation. High stress causes inflammation, which can promote cancer development. Make stress management a priority in your daily routine. Cancer rates are rising, but you can take action now to lower your risk. Many of these changes aren’t about adding new habits but stopping harmful ones. Taking charge of your health brings multiple benefits: lower blood pressure, reduced cardiovascular disease risk, less inflammation, and better overall well-being. Don’t make it easier for disease to take hold – start protecting your health today. Editor’s note: Discover the best ways to naturally avoid the threat of cancer from many of the best holistic cancer experts, own the Stop Cancer Docu-Class created by NaturalHealth365 Programs. Sources for this article include: Wiley.com To read the original article click here.

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