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Thursday, June 30, 2011

How to Know If You Have Brain Cancer, is it Hereditary?

A number of researchers have looked at how to know if you have brain cancer as regards the factor of heredity. Is the likelihood of having or getting brain cancer higher if someone in your family has it?   One problem with trying to substantiate a genetic relationship with brain cancer is separating out the genetic connection from the fact that the persons are also in the same environment, especially if they are immediate family.  

Doctors have long agreed that the risk of getting breast, colon and prostate cancers did have a relationship to a person's family history of such cancers. A study last year by the University of Utah and Tel Aviv University looked at family histories that went back 3 to 10 generations. Researchers have concluded that there is a hereditary correlation with brain cancer and that persons with a family history of the cancer are at higher risk of getting the disease themselves. The records of 1500 people were used with information going back to the early 1800s. While there have been earlier studies that suggested there was a hereditary relationship, this study effectively eliminated the shared environment possibility as the cause. The study showed as much as a 4 times greater risk of contracting the disease if one has a family history of brain cancer.  

After considering the results of the study it makes it that much more important to tell your doctor if there is any known brain cancer in your relatives or anywhere in your family history. While a family history of cancer in no way means you have it or will get it, it can guide you and your doctor to take precautionary steps to prevent onset of the disease. As well it could result in early detection if you indeed do have it which medical experts agree is extremely valuable. Cancer treatment and cure has a much higher success rate in persons in which the cancer was detected early.

About The Author:

Daniel Lorch is engaged in research into cancer, alzheimers and other diseases with the ultimate goal of finding and disseminating the most effective treatments and cures, especially according to those who have been cured. Mr. Lorch invites you to see some amazing cure claims at [http://howtoknowifyouhavebraincancer.blogspot.com/]


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Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Brain Cancer

We all know the function of brain. It is the main control center of our body that monitors/instructs everything thing in our body. Any disease that affects this central control system is really a big problem. And the worst thing to happen is brain cancer. Brain cancer is the development of brain tumors i.e. tumors in the brain. These could either be benign or malignant; the latter being the really harmful one.

Types of brain cancer

As most other types of cancer, brain cancer is also classified as primary brain cancer and secondary brain cancer. Primary brain cancer is the one that originates from the brain itself i.e. that originates in the brain cells. Secondary brain cancers is the one that doesn't originate from the brain cells but is instead passed on from another organ/ part of the body

Causes of brain cancer

As is the case with many other types of cancer, the causes of brain cancer is a big topic for researchers. However, certain genetic conditions and exposure of head to radiation (as received during radiotherapy as part of treatment of other conditions) are known to be causes of cancer. There are a number of other theories that keep coming up time and again, each suggesting different possible causes of brain tumor (one famous one is about mobile phones causing brain cancer). However, there really isn't a very convincing theory about what causes brain cancer.

Symptoms of brain cancer

Some very common symptoms of brain cancer are headaches and nausea; but these can really be caused by something else. So, headache and nausea shouldn't really be taken as brain cancer. Some other symptoms of brain cancer are related to incorrect working of some of the basic senses (that are mainly governed by brain) e.g. speech, vision and smell etc. Again, there is no point in getting worried all by yourself; you should, in any case, consult a qualified doctor and let them know clearly about the various symptoms that you have observed. The doctor can then diagnose whether it is brain cancer. You might be referred to a neurologist for further examination (if brain cancer is suspected).

Diagnosis and treatment of brain cancer

The diagnosis of brain cancer will include tests that are based on the working of the nervous system. So, testing of basic human senses like vision, speech, hearing, mental capability, reflexes is taken up for diagnosis of brain cancer. The treatment of brain cancer is done through surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy (and the combination of these).

Warren and Karen have been involved in the internet for a number of years and run several websites. They are most interested in providing opportunities for people to connect with information relating to business, health and creativity. Check out their Brain Cancer blog for more information.


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Four Emerging Breakthroughs In Solving Brain Tumors

Despite significant advances in cancer research and treatment, one form of cancer - brain tumors - remain particularly feared, and for good reason. Because of their location, brain tumors can severely impact an individual's personality, memories and basic motor skills, robbing the patient of their very being. The impact on family and friends is felt greatly, as their loved one may be "lost" to them even earlier than feared. While there are more than 120 types of brain tumors, for the most common and serious adult tumors, Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the chances of living 5 years is less than 3%. Most patients will live no more than a year or two despite aggressive therapy.

However, few maladies manage to both simultaneously confound researchers in their mystery, yet hold such promise for the cure and management as prominently as brain tumors. There is strong belief that some significant breakthroughs in brain tumor treatment may only be 4-6 years away. Complementing traditional chemotherapeutic and surgical approaches, four emerging breakthroughs are discussed here which are rapidly transforming the treatment of brain tumors and related conditions.

Gene Therapy

Gene therapy approaches involve the insertion of genes into growing brain tumors, rendering them more sensitive to some chemotherapeutic agents that are relatively non-toxic to the rest of the body. Some promising experiments have demonstrated that with insertion of genes into animal brain tumor cells and administration of chemotherapy, complete destruction of the tumor may be possible without spread of the tumor. Other approaches in gene therapy include substitution of abnormal genes for normal genes, the repair of abnormal genes via selective reverse mutation, and gene regulation (i.e., altering the instructions within a gene to "turn on or off").

Vaccines

One area showing substantial promise in brain tumor treatment is based on an immunotherapeutic approach; that is, using a patient's immune system as an instrument for cancer therapy. This approach is premised on a body's immune response toward cells bearing tumor markers or antigens. One major focus area has been "active immunotherapy", described as the administration of the tumor antigenic material to help "vaccinate" a patient against their own tumor. Other vaccine approaches, including Dendritic cell-based vaccines, Cytokine immunogene therapy, Bacterial and viral tumor vaccines, and GBM-specific molecular pathway vaccines are also being considered. The vaccine approach holds challenges that need to be evaluated against other treatment options that may require crucial patient choices, but they are continuing to emerge as an area of significant promise.

Stereotactic Radiosurgery/Radiotherapy

There is growing usage of stereotactic radiosurgery and radiotherapy among neurosurgeons. The tools, used for the non-invasive treatment of tumors and other brain, head, spine and neck conditions, use sophisticated mechanical systems and image-guided technology to treat tumors, using high, targeted doses of radiation (in a single session) to attack the tumor and minimizing contact with healthy tissue. The image guidance systems direct the radiation to the tumor; some systems shape the radiation beam to map to the exact shape of the tumor, and software can help direct the ideal access points to the tumor.

Dual Agent Drug Therapies

Some of the field's leading researchers have concluded that traditional treatment for many brain tumors has started with a faulty premise; namely, that interventions for brain tumors were simply a palliative effort designed to decrease patient discomfort and increase stabilization. The conclusion is that while these therapies have shown some success on their own, when multiple therapeutic agents are combined, (an approach more commonly used with cancers not as fatal) an increasing number of brain tumor patients are seeing increases in survival. Also, newer drugs are showing the ability to block the growth of tumors by attempting to interfere with their proteins that control tumor growth. And other, specialized treatment regimens are being formulated for patients whose tumors are shown to grow at an accelerated rate compared with typical tumors.

These are but four of the emerging approaches where we may continue to see major breakthroughs in treatment or management of brain tumors. The hope in all these courses is that ultimately, brain tumors may in some cases be curable or at least achieve status as a manageable disease, as with many other serious and chronic conditions such as diabetes.

Mike Tancredi provides services for http://www.unlockingbraintumors.org/ a non profit organization dedicated to raising and distributing funds for the continued research into brain tumors


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Brain Tumor Symptoms

My father recently was diagnosed with a brain tumor, and he exhibited some of normal Brain Tumor Symptoms. However he did not have all the typical symptoms of a brain tumor, this is quite common for someone to only exhibit a selection of the normal brain tumor symptoms.

So what are the brain tumor symptoms you should look out for?

Brain Tumor Symptoms are very much related to where in the brain the tumor is located.

This is a short summary of what symptoms are related to which part of the brain.

Frontal lobe - Tumors in the Frontal lobe can cause the following: changes in personality or intellect, unco-ordination especially in walking, some weakness usually in one side of the body, some speech difficulties.

Parietal lobe - Tumors in the Parietal lobe can cause the following: difficulty in understanding words reading and writing, problems with movements especially co-ordination of movements, disorientation
numbers and calculations, weakness on one side of the body.

Occipital lobe - Tumors in the Occipital lobe can cause the following: vision impairment especially on one side.

Temporal lobe - Tumors in the Temporal lobe can cause the following: Fits, strange feelings like fear or familiarity like dé jà vu, unusual smells, blackouts, difficulties with speech, memory problems.

Cerebellum - Tumors in the Cerebellum can cause the following: Co-ordination affecting walking and speech, unsteadiness, involuntary movement of the eyes - flickering, vomiting and nausea, neck stiffness.

Brain stem - Tumors in the Brain Stem can cause the following: Unsteadiness usually un-coordinated walking, Facial weakness can be one-sided smile or eyelid that droops, vision issues usually double vision, speaking and swallowing difficulties.

As you can see the different tumors exhibit different symptoms.
You need to look out for any brain tumor symptoms and if there appears to be a problem get it check by a qualified medical person immediately.

Having recently had his father diagnosed with a brain tumor, Glenn has first hand knowledge and experience of just what can happen with brain tumors and how the person, family and friends can all be affected. Author of the popular website [http://www.dadsbraintumor.com/] and the blog [http://brain-tumor.blogspot.com/]


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Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Brain Tumors - What Are They and How Are They Treated?

The cause of brain tumors is not well understood by the medical profession. There are many different types of brain tumor and the symptoms they cause and the treatment given varies. A brain tumor is sometimes referred to as brain cancer.

Brain tumors can be either primary or secondary. Primary tumors develop from brain cells and can be either benign (they do not spread into other areas of the brain) or malignant (they do spread through the surrounding brain tissue). Secondary brain tumors occur when cancer cells from another part of the body such as the lung spread to the brain. When a cancer cells spreads from another part of the body this is referred to as a metastasize.

A doctor may suspect a brain tumor if a patient presents with, for example, seizures, persistent headaches with sickness, a change in behaviour (mental status) or visual or hearing problems. Sometimes the patient with suffer from photophobia (dislike of bright lights) or neck stiffness. A CT or MRI scan is usually required to confirm the diagnosis. If a brain tumor is suspected the doctor will need to undertake surgery to remove part of the suspect cells for testing.

This is known as a biopsy. The cells will then be examined under a microscope to see if they are benign or malignant. If the cells are malignant treatment will be required. Treatment may include surgery to remove the cancerous cells. The surgery will be undertaken by a neurosurgeon who specialise in operating on the brain. Other treatments include radiotherapy or chemotherapy which work by killing the malignant cells. Sometimes medication such as steroids will be prescribed to treat the brain tumor.

If a GP or Consultant fail to diagnose or correctly treat a brain tumor this may give rise to a claim for clinical negligence compensation. There are three main circumstances, which could lead to a clinical negligence claim as a result of a brain tumor:

Firstly there may be a delay in diagnosing the tumor. This could be because the doctor such as a GP has failed to pick up on signs and symptoms, which should have led to further investigations. For a claim to be successful it is necessary to show that the delay has resulted in a worse outcome. Delays are particularly significant in dealing with benign tumors as they are more likely to be curable and often the size of the tumor and the ease with which it can be removed relate directly to how good a recovery can be made.

Secondly once a diagnosis of a brain tumor has been made it is important that the doctors discuss the treatment options with the patient very carefully. In some case surgery may carry a significant risk of leaving the patient with severe disabilities and can cause a benign tumor to become malignant. Other options such as radiotherapy to kill the affected cells or simply monitoring the tumor by regular scanning might be preferable.

Thirdly if surgery is decided upon it may not be undertaken with sufficient care. Brain surgery is very complicated. Complications such as a stroke or damage to other parts of the brain may occur during the operation. If these complications could have been avoided with reasonable care, a claim for compensation may be made.

Head Injury UK are specialist solicitors who investigate cases of medical negligence connected with the diagnosis and treatment of brain tumors.

http://www.headinjuryuk.com/ are specilist solicitors who provide legal advice and medical information to those affected by traumatic brain injury and its potentially severe consequences. Contact us for a free, confidential, no obligation inquiry.


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Delta-24-RGD - A Virus Found to Target and Eliminate Cancer Cells of the Brain

Cancer is quite a hot topic in the scientific research community today, due to the obvious lack of knowledge underlying certain biological processes. Without the mastery of these biological pathways, it is not feasible to devise surefire treatment and/or prevention methods against specific types of cancer. One does not have to look very far to find criticism or an attempt at exploitation of these biological voids by the media. Despite the frequent scrutiny, the field of oncology (the study of tumors/cancer) has improved exponentially in understanding the manifestation, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of cancer. A simple look at the declining morbidity rates of cancer patients over the last few decades should provide some comfort even to the most skeptical individuals.

Despite the frequent advances in cancer research, the findings manage to fly under the radar of mainstream media. It lies within these small findings, which are the basis of future treatments and cures. Recently, a group of researchers came one step closer to solving their life saving puzzle.

The study, conducted by researchers at the UT-Houston M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and funded by the National Cancer Institute, analyzed the destructive effects on brain tumor stem cells of mice by introducing a tailored adenovirus (Delta-24-RDG). By tailored adenovirus, I mean a specific virus produced by scientists. This was tested on the most aggressive brain tumor, glioblastoma multiforme, which is known to be resistant to chemotherapy and radiation. The particular intrigue in this project stems from their attempt to build on well-known and studied research performed in 2003.

The 2003 study found that Delta-24 eliminated brain tumors in 60% of mice. The recent study however, was conducted on the actual stem cells that drive the continued tumor growth postoperatively, hence the testing on glioma stem cells. This led to a direct comparison in survival time between the control group (received no intervention) and the treatment group (received Delta-24 injection). The survival time of the mice who received treatment nearly doubled that of the control group. The result is obvious: the mice that received the injection of the adenovirus demonstrated prolonged life-spans. The success of the study did not simply end there.

The researchers attempted to analyze more than mere cause and effect. They sought to gain information on the actual physiological process contributing to the death of the stem cells in the brain. For the first time, adenovirus-mediated cell death (by autophagy) was noted as the direct method of cellular death in tumor stem cells of the brain. It was also noted that the therapeutic virus did not alter normal brain tissue. This finding carries with it tremendous hope because the tumors formed in the brains of these mice closely resemble brain tumors in humans. This resemblance lies in their irregular form and invasive metastatic, or spreading, properties. The study did mention the limitations of these findings and the need for further research, but it does postulate an exciting and possible method of cancer treatment, which may not be limited to the brain. This study only hints at the remarkable and constant efforts put forth by cancer researchers. One must remember that our race for a cure is not a sprint, but an ongoing marathon that must be carefully and methodically ran.

1) Fueyo J, Alemany R, Gomez-Manzano C, Fuller GN, Khan A, Conrad CA, Liu TJ, Jiang H, Lemoine MG, Suzuki K, Sawaya R, Curiel DT, Yung WK, Lang FF. Preclinical characterization of the antiglioma activity of a tropism-enhanced adenovirus targeted to the retinoblastoma pathway. J Natl Cancer Inst. 2003 May 7;95(9):652-60. PMID: 12734316.

2) Jiang H., Gomez-Manzano C., Aoki H., Alonso M.M., Kondo S., McCormick F., Xu J., Kondo Y., Bekele B.N., Colman H., Lang F.F., Fueyo J. Examination of the therapeutic potential of Delta-24-RGD in brain tumor stem cells: role of autophagic cell death. J Natl Cancer Inst. 2007 Sep 19;99(18):1410-4. PMID: 17848677.

Derek Gene Kroll

Surgical/Scientific Research - Houston, TX


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Is There a Link Between Cell Phones and Brain Tumors?

Today everyone is informed about the dangers of smoking cigarettes but back in the 1970's nine out of ten doctors recommended smoking Camels. My point being, there is a multi-billion dollar cell phone industry that has a vested interest in keeping the public unaware of the dangers of cell phones.

It's now official, the studies are out, there is a definite link between cell phones and malignant brain tumors.

An article published in The Sun titled "Cancer Risk in Mobile Phones: Official" starts with the sentence "MOBILE phones DO increase the risk of brain cancer, scientists claimed yesterday."

The article goes on to say French scientists found that a person who is a long-term mobile phone user is more likely to develop a malignant brain tumor called glioma.

"The chances of developing a malignant tumour are "significantly increased" for people who use a mobile for ten years. The shock finding is the result of the biggest ever study by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, part of the World Health Organisation."

This is just one newspaper article out of thousands that are saying essentially the same thing.

If you do some deeper research into the peer reviewed studies, you'll find out cell phones actually heat up the brain around the ear area by a degree or two. This effectively breaks down the blood brain barrier, which is a defense against the poisons in your body becoming lodged in your brain.

With an open blood-brain barrier, harmful things like heavy metals, are allowed to cross into your brain and cause permanent damage. Talking on your cell phone for ten minutes opens your blood-brain barrier for the next 14 hours.

Take your health into your own hands, do some research on cell phones and brain cancer, and then take steps to protect yourself and loved ones.

References
1. http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/news/article1814931.ece

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Monday, June 27, 2011

Brain Cancer - Symptoms of Brain Cancer

Brain cancer is a disease of the brain where cancer cells (malignant) grow in the brain tissue. Cancer cells grow to form a mass of cancer tissue (tumor) that interferes with brain tissue functions such as muscle control, sensation, memory, and other normal body functions. Tumors composed of cancer cells are called malignant tumors, and those composed of noncancerous cells are called benign tumors. Cancer cells that develop from brain tissue are called primary brain tumors. Statistics suggest that brain cancer is not rare and is likely to develop in about 20,000 people per year.

There are two main types of brain cancer. Primary brain cancer starts in the brain. Metastatic brain cancer starts somewhere else in the body and moves to the brain. Brain tumors can be benign, with no cancer cells, or malignant, with cancer cells that grow quickly.

Primary brain cancer rarely spreads beyond the central nervous system, and death results from uncontrolled tumor growth within the limited space of the skull. Metastatic brain cancer indicates advanced disease and has a poor prognosis.

Metastatic brain tumors are made of cancerous cells from a tumor elsewhere in the body. The cells spread to the brain from another tumor in a process called metastasis. About 25% of tumors elsewhere in the body metastasize to the brain.

Symptoms of Brain Cancer

Brain tumors can damage vital neurological pathways and invade and compress brain tissue. Symptoms usually develop over time and their characteristics depend on the location and size of the tumor.

Cancers are typically painless at first. As they grow, the first symptom is often a mild discomfort, which may steadily worsen into increasingly severe pain as the cancer enlarges. The pain may result from the cancer compressing or eroding into nerves or other structures.

The symptoms are caused by the tumor pressing on or encroaching on other parts of your brain and keeping them from functioning normally.

A sign is also an indication that something is not right in the body. But signs are defined as things that can be seen by a doctor, nurse, or other health care professional. Fever, rapid breathing rate, and abnormal breathing sounds heard through a stethoscope may be signs of pneumonia.

As the skull is made of bone, there is a fixed amount of space for the brain to take up. The growing tumor increases the pressure inside this fixed space. This is called 'raised intracranial pressure'.

Motion sickness is a very common disturbance of the inner ear that is caused by repeated motion such as from the swell of the sea, the movement of a car, the motion of a plane in turbulent air, etc. In the inner ear (which is also called the labyrinth), motion sickness affects the sense of balance and equilibrium and, hence, the sense of spatial orientation.

Brain tumors can often present different symptoms depending on the location of the tumor. There are general brain tumor symptoms that need to be checked out by a doctor if they are experienced.

Fits are one of the commonest symptoms of brain tumors. About 1 in 4 people with a brain tumor first go to their doctor because they have had a fit. A fit can just be jerking or twitching of a hand, arm or leg.

At the late stages of the disorder, dramatic changes in blood pressure may occur. Seizures are a common symptom of benign brain tumors and slow-growing cancers. Tumors can cause a part of the body to weaken or feel paralyzed. Hearing, sight and the sense of smell can be affected.


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Children's Brain Tumor and Brain Cancer Awareness Opens Doors for Support, Education and Research

Every year, an estimated 3,400 children in the United States are diagnosed with a brain tumor or brain cancer. Approximately one third of these children will survive no more than five years, making brain and spinal cord tumors the deadliest of all childhood cancers.

These kinds of tumors are considered to be the toughest childhood cancers to treat successfully due to several factors, including:

Their precise cause is unknown;There are many different kinds of children's brain and spinal cord tumors;Because the disease is rare and tissue samples of tumors are small, it takes time to test and validate new treatment options;Doctors and researchers are dealing with a growing child's brain and body, so they must first ensure they avoid harming the child; andFunds for research and treatment options are limited, due to the relatively low rate of incidence, compared to other childhood cancers and diseases.

Today, across America...

Nine families will learn their child has a brain or spinal cord tumor;
A mother will grieve that her instincts about her child's health were right;
A father will allow himself to cry, but only alone in the shower;
A six-year old child may try to grapple with her mortality.

Three families across America will mourn the loss of their child to a brain or spinal cord tumor. Friends, family and community will try to make sense of an untimely death and the unfulfilled promise of a life. At the same time, these same friends, family and community will join to celebrate the joy a child's life brought to them, albeit brief and difficult.

Six families across America will transition to survivorship;
Parents will be grateful for another good MRI;
A mother will be too exhausted from providing constant care to her child to simply write checks to pay bills;
A father will again adapt his day, family and life to a new definition of normal, unlike any he had previously envisioned;
A sibling will wonder whether her parents will ever pay as much attention to her as they do her afflicted sister;
A survivor on the brink of adulthood will wonder if he'll ever date, marry or have a family.

There is hope for these children, as the survival rate has increased significantly over the past twenty years, with approximately 25,000 survivors living in the U.S. today. However, "survivorship" for children with brain or spinal cord tumors isn't as bright as the survivorship that is celebrated with some other cancers. Two-thirds of those afflicted will suffer late effects such as cognitive damage, physical challenges and social isolation. In addition, measures such as unemployment are much more dismal among pediatric brain tumor survivors than among other pediatric cancer survivors.

Families facing this dreadful disease need help. They need resources for education, services, networking, and just plain emotional support. There are several non-profit organizations, such as the Children's Brain Tumor Foundation that offer programs and assistance to these families in a variety of ways.

In addition, these organizations are tireless in their efforts to secure funding in support of ongoing research of the causes, treatment options, and possible cures of these deadly killers. A quick Internet search can offer up a plethora of resources that will fit the needs of almost every family traveling down this very difficult path.

While significant progress has been made in the areas of research, diagnosis and treatment, much more work remains to be done. Awareness is the first giant step in the right direction. From awareness comes education, and from education comes research, donations, and hopefully, someday - a cure.


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Sunday, June 26, 2011

An Overview Of Brain Cancer

Brain cancer is caused by abnormal growths of cells in the brain. Brain cancers can start from primary brain cells, from the cells that make other brain components, or from the expansion of cancer cells from other organs that have extend to the brain by the bloodstream.

Malignant tumors develop and multiply insistently, subduing healthy cells by acquiring their space, blood, as well as nutrients. This is particularly an issue in the brain, as the additional expansion within the closed limits of the cranium can cause a raise in intracranial stress or the deformation of adjoining critical structures, leading to their break down.

Tumors that do not grow insistently are known as benign. More or less all tumors that start in the brain do not extend to other parts of the body. The key distinction amid benign and malignant tumors is that malignant tumors can enter into the brain tissues and quickly grow.

In most cases, a benign tumor is not as grave as a malignant tumor. Nonetheless, a benign tumor can become the source of several problems within the brain.

Primary brain tumors

The brain is formed by several different kinds of cells. Cancers occur as one type of cell alters and changes its usual traits. Once altered, the cells develop and increase in abnormal means. When these abnormal cells grow, they are converted into an accumulation of cells, known as tumor.

Brain tumors that occur from this alteration and abnormal development of brain cells are termed as primary brain tumors as they start in the brain.

Brain tumors differ in their growth speed as well as capacity to show warning signs. To find out severity, tumors are categorized by using a grading system;

Grade I: The tissue becomes benign. The cells seem almost similar to normal brain cells, and cell growth is not fast.Grade II: The tissue becomes malignant. The cells seem less similar normal cells as compared to the cells in a 'Grade I' tumor.Grade III: The malignant tissue contains cells that appear significantly different from normal cells. The abnormal cells are rapidly growing. These rapidly growing cells are known as anaplastic.Grade IV: The malignant tissue contains cells that appear to be very abnormal and are likely to grow very rapidly.

Metastatic brain tumors

Metastatic brain tumors are the cancerous cells that reach other parts via the bloodstream from a tumor traced somewhere else in the body. The cells reach the brain from another tumor by a method called metastasis. Generally, the flow of blood in brain shows where the metastatic cancer cells are present.


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How To Lower The Risk Of Brain Cancer Recurrence And Secondary Brain Cancer

By Henry Relfield Henry Relfield
Level: Basic PLUS

Henry Relfield is a medical expert in cancer diseases for more than 15 years and he currently working in Jackson County Public Hospital at Maquoketa, ...

Conventional therapy can be effective at destroying brain tumor. However, it is a healthy body and immune system that provide ongoing surveillance and destruction of cancer tumor regrowth. An important part of a post-treatment healing program is to support optimal health and to employ brain cancer prevention strategies. These strategies will support the innate healing capacities within each of us. Optimal health rests upon a foundation of healthy eating, adequate exercise, sufficient sleep, and meaningful as well as joyful living.

In addition to food, movement is also healing. Our bodies are meant to move. The research on the importance of exercise in preventing brain cancer and its recurrence is substantial. At minimum, 30 minutes of moderately difficult exercise (brisk walking, jogging, bicycling, swimming, dancing, and so on) done every day is associated with a reduced risk of cancer and of dying from cancer. For instance, compared with a man who was inactive both before and after a diagnosis of brain cancer, a man who increased physical activity after diagnosis had a 45 percent lower risk of death, and the man who decreased physical activity after diagnosis had a four-fold greater risk of death.

The idea is to change the environment to be the least hospitable to cancer. We do this with exercise but we also do this with sleep. Sleep is critical to optimal health. Sleep is critical for a well-functioning immune system. In fact, several key anti-cancer immune actions are most active during sleep. Stress reduction is also a big part of the anti-cancer plan. Finding ways to manage stress is of utmost importance. Elevated levels of stress-induced chemicals and hormones unravel immunity, cripple cell repair, and increase the susceptibility of our cells to cancer-causing DNA damage. While we cannot eliminate all the stress in our lives, we can certainly change the way we perceive stress. Meditation, yoga, tai chi, and hobbies are just a few ways to create more inner calm and less stress. It is important to make relaxation a part of your daily routine.

The last component of brain cancer prevention plan is an appropriately tailored supplement program. This supplement program should include plant-based antioxidants such as green tea, turmeric, and proanthocyanidins (berries, grapeseed oil, or extracts). It may also include other cancer-preventive compounds such as melatonin, soy isoflavones, flaxseed lignans, essential fatty acids, medicinal mushrooms, and vitamins C, E, and D. Finally, there are nutrients specific to lowering the risk for each cancer type. Implementing a reasonable and appropriate cancer recovery and prevention supplement program is an important part of healing from cancer.

Henry Relfield is a medical expert in cancer diseases for more than 15 years and he has been writing many well-known cancer-related articles including, diagnosis and causes of tumors, cancer-fighting recipes, common signs and symptoms of tumors, treatment options, etc. To find out more about his articles, you can visit at: http://www.cancer-dictionary.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Henry_Relfield

Henry Relfield - EzineArticles Expert Author This article has been viewed 101 time(s).
Article Submitted On: January 09, 2011


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Is There a Correlation Between Cell Phones and Brain Tumors?

There have been many studies conducted that indicate that there could be a correlation between cell phones and brain tumors. As a matter of fact, these studies actually lead medical professionals and other types of specialists to believe that there is, in fact, a relationship between the development of brain tumors and frequent phone use.

As a matter of fact, legislators in the State of Maine recently tried to get a bill passed in which cell phone manufacturers would have to put the following warning on their phones prior to distributing them to retailers:

"...This device emits electromagnetic radiation, exposure to which may cause brain cancer..."

- Courtesy of CNN.com Video

While this particular request to pass this bill failed in March of 2010, the Federal Drug Administration is encouraging companies that manufacturer these devices to create phones that help eliminate the increased exposure to the radiation that increases the risks associated with brain tumors and the onset of brain cancer.

What do the Professionals Have to Say?

The medical professionals and various researchers that have studied the effect of long term cell phone use state that there could be a biological based issue involved that result in issues that pertain to the tissues in the body.

These professionals stand by the fact that cell phones have not really been in use long enough to provide concise statistical data that supports the claims, but they also stand by the fact that the possibilities are there that there could be a direct correlation between brain cancer and the use of this type of mobile device.

While cell phones are found to meet the FCC's standards for safety, but medical professionals are urging individuals that use these phones to understand that there could be a potential issue and to use the devices with caution.

Preventing Brain Tumors with Cell Phone Use

Based on the epidemiological studies conducted by those that are interested in establishing the link between cell phone use and brain tumors, the evidence is not conclusive enough to say that there is a direct link. However, these professionals do believe that there are some strategies that may be used to successfully prevent the possibility that brain tumors may develop as a result of phone use. The following prevention strategies seem to be logical based on what is known about this link:

? Individuals that use a cell phone should keep the mobile device as far away from their body as possible to reduce the exposure to the radiation that is emitted from the device.

? There are many hands-free and standard headsets that may be used in conjunction with cell phones. Those that are concerned about their exposure to radiation should use these cell phone accessories.

? Individuals that have a family history or a personal medical history that includes any type of tumor and/or cancer - specifically in the head and spinal cord region - should have regular checkups to ensure that they are in the clear on such medical complications as newly developed tumors.

If these strategies are incorporated when cell phones are used, an individual's chance of developing a brain tumor may be drastically reduced.

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About the Author: Anne Ahira is an established entrepreneur and successful coach in her country of Indonesia. Her success story has been published in many nationwide publications in Indonesia.

Making a lucrative income online is a challenging endeavor, but by getting the *right* information, it is an endeavor that you can succeed at!

If you want to LEARN how to make a LUCRATIVE income online from Professional Marketers you can TRUST, below is the *only* product Anne Ahira recommends: http://www.anneahirarecommends.com/

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Saturday, June 25, 2011

Brain Cancer Chemo-Related Nausea

Brain cancer chemo-related nausea is one of the most frustrating effects that often accompany chemotherapy. While it is true that chemotherapy is effective in killing cancerous cells and reducing the possibility that those abnormal growths that are part of brain cancer will spread throughout other areas of the brain and the body as a whole, not too many patients feel that this brain cancer treatment is enjoyable.

This is especially true if they experience the nausea that is quite common among many individuals that indulge in treatment for their condition. In this medical guide, you will learn important facts about brain cancer chemo-related nausea.

Risk Factors

It is important to understand that there are many risk factors that may indicate that an individual will develop brain cancer chemo-related nausea. One of the main factors in determining if this will be experienced relates directly to the drug that is issued during the course of the treatment. The following highlights some of the most common medications that may result in nausea that may or may not include vomiting:

? Oxaliplatin

? Cisplatin

? Altretamine

? Doxorubicin

? Carmustine

In addition to medications that may result in nausea, there are other risk factors that may mean that a patient has an increased chance of developing nausea while undergoing this brain cancer treatment option. These risks include, but are not limited to the following:

? If the patient is a female, they stand a higher chance of developing this form of nausea.

? Those that have issues with motion sickness are more likely to experience this symptom.

? If the patient typically vomits when they are suffering from a standard sickness, it is likely that they will do the same when it comes to brain cancer chemotherapy.

? If the patient is female and had bouts of morning sickness when they were pregnant in the past, they may develop nausea during chemotherapy.
? Those that experience any type of anxiety may experience nausea as well.

Preventing Chemo-Induced Nausea

There are several different techniques that may be used to prevent chemo-induced nausea. First, it is important to ensure that only small meals are eaten. While making changes to the diet when undergoing chemo, it is important to ensure that fluids are drunk on a regular basis. It is considered standard to drink at least eight different glasses of water on a daily basis.

However, if an individual is going through brain cancer treatment, it is absolutely vital to ensure that at least ten or more glasses of water are consumed on a daily basis. It is very important for patients to take the steps that are necessary to stay comfortable. If these prevention measures are taken, it could reduce the likelihood that brain cancer chemo-related nausea is experienced.

----------------------------
About the Author: Anne Ahira is an established entrepreneur and successful coach in her country of Indonesia. Her success story has been published in many nationwide publications in Indonesia.

Making a lucrative income online is a challenging endeavor, but by getting the *right* information, it is an endeavor that you can succeed at!

If you want to LEARN how to make a LUCRATIVE income online from Professional Marketers you can TRUST, below is the *only* product Anne Ahira recommends: http://www.anneahirarecommends.com/

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Brain Tumor - The Symptoms and Diagnosis

The signs of brain tumor depend on the size, location and type of tumor. Symptoms may appear whenever a tumor pushes a nerve or injures a particular area in the brain. They can also be caused if the brain enlarges or fluids build up in the skull.

Majority of the common signs of brain cancers are the following:

- Headaches (regularly worse at daybreak)
- Vomiting or nausea
- Problems in walking or balancing
- Changes in personality, mood or capacity to contemplate
- Memory problems
- Changes in vision, hearing or speech
- Muscle trembling or jerking
- Numbness or itchy feeling in legs or arms

If the symptoms indicate that there is indication of brain cancer, the doctor can do any of the subsequent procedures as basis of its diagnosis:

- Physical examination - the doctor examines general sign of health
- Neurologic examination - the physician checks the attentiveness, strength of muscle, reflexes, coordination and reaction to pain. The eyes are also examined to find out if there is any swelling due to the tumor pushing the nerve which attaches the brain and eyes.
- CT scan - an x-ray apparatus connected to computer which takes series of thorough pictures of a head. The patient is given an injection of special tint in order that the brain can be seen visibly in the picture. The picture may show growths or tumors inside the brain.
- MRI - a forceful magnet attached to computer which makes comprehensive pictures of sections in the body. These pictures are shown on a screen and can be printed also. Sometimes, a particular dye is inserted in order to help illustrate differences in the various tissues inside the brain.

The following tests are also considered to help diagnose brain tumor:

? Angiogram - a particular dye is injected to the bloodstream and runs in the blood vessels inside the brain in order for them to appear on x-ray. If a growth is present, it can be seen by the doctor.
? Skull x-ray - various forms of brain cancers cause calcium accumulation inside the brain or changes on the bones in the skull. Through x-ray, changes can be checked.
? Spinal tap - the physician may take a sample of CSF (cerebrospinal fluid - a fluid that fills up the spaces around the brain as well as the spinal cord). This is done with use of local anesthesia. The spinal tap can be done around thirty minutes. The patient lies flat within several hours after extraction of CSF to avoid headache. Laboratory test is done to check for the presence of cancer cells and other indications of problems.
? Myelogram - refers to the x-ray of the spine or spinal cord. Spinal tap is done by injecting a special dye in the cerebrospinal fluid. The patient tilts to let the dye combine to the fluid. This procedure assists the doctor discover cancer on the spinal cord.
? Biopsy - it is the removal of sample of tissue to search for cancer cells. The pathologist examines the cells under the microscope in order to verify abnormal cells. A biopsy may show tumor, tissue changes which might lead to tumor and other situations. This is the surest way in diagnosing brain cancer.


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Research Offers Hope for Better Treatments of Pediatric Brain Tumors and Brain Cancer

Pediatric brain tumors and brain cancer, while rare, are considered to be the deadliest of all childhood cancers. While the incidence rate may be relatively low, with approximately 3,400 new cases diagnosed annually in the United States, the mortality rate of children with these types of cancers is significantly higher than other childhood cancers and diseases. Roughly one-third of these kids will not survive beyond five years.

However, it is encouraging to note that, as a result of advancements in research and treatment methods, there have been noticeable decreases in overall cancer death rates since the early 1990s, with an estimated 25,000 survivors currently living in the U.S. Although "survivorship" for these kids comes with its own lingering effects, such as cognitive damage, physical challenges and social isolation, the research that is taking place today will hopefully, someday help to minimize these effects, and allow these survivors to live longer, healthier lives.

Hope for the children and families who face this dreadful disease comes from the tireless efforts of many non-profit organizations, research foundations, hospitals and other pediatric medical institutions who are dedicated to finding the cause, and ultimately, the cure for this deadly invader of children. A few of the more notable milestones of late include:

? The creation of a tissue bank consortium, a collaborative initiative involving the Children's Brain Tumor Foundation and a group of researchers at several leading pediatric oncology hospitals nationwide. The bank will enable researchers to obtain samples of brain tumor tissue that can be characterized, analyzed and used to evaluate treatments. The results can then be documented in a database that can be shared with pediatric cancer facilities across the country.

? The publishing of a landmark study of medulloblastoma*, a type of brain tumor typically found in children. The study team found that the number of mutations in pediatric medulloblastoma tumors is five to ten times fewer than in adult medulloblastoma tumors, which suggests that, compared to adult tumors, pediatric tumors may respond better to drugs that target the genes and pathways altered by mutations that drive cancer progression.

Pediatric brain and spinal cord tumors are difficult to diagnose because their signs and symptoms may mimic those of other disorders, and vary according to the exact location of the tumor. Once a diagnosis is made, successful treatment is also difficult because there are so many different kinds of brain tumors and cancers, and their precise causes are unknown.

Research holds the key to quicker, more accurate diagnoses and subsequently, better treatments. While progress is being made on a number of research platforms, it continues to be challenging for several reasons:

? There are many different kinds of children's brain and spinal cord tumors, which has stymied research as investigators face the challenges of collecting and analyzing tissue, as well as the ethical issues posed in treating children.

? Because the disease is rare and tissue samples of tumors are small, it takes time to test and validate new treatment options, and there is currently not an adequate database for recording and sharing this information.

? Doctors and researchers are dealing with a growing child's brain and body, so they must first ensure they avoid harming the child.

? Funds for research and treatment options are limited, due to the relatively low rate of incidence, compared to other childhood cancers and diseases.

As any research investigator would attest, much work has been done, much progress has been made, but it is not enough. It is never enough. The efforts will continue, and the unshakable commitment of so many will stand strong until the statistics dwindle from 3,400 to 0.

This article was written for the Children's Brain Tumor Foundation; Joe Fay, Executive Director. For more information, or to make a donation, please visit http://www.cbtf.org/. Contact Joe Fay at jfay@cbtf.org or 800-228-4673. This article is free to be reprinted as long as the bio remains intact.

*"The Genetic Landscape of the Childhood Cancer Medulloblastoma," Science, published online Dec. 16, 2010.

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Friday, June 24, 2011

Brain Cancer Radiation Therapy

Brain cancer radiation therapy is the process in which a particular form of energy is used to destroy cancerous cells in the body. This treatment is also used to reduce the size of the tumors that are present within the body. This is made possible by the fact that the genetic information on the abnormal cells is eliminated.

Once this occurs, the cells are no longer able to go through their traditional characteristics of dividing and spreading through the body. The ultimate goal associated with this type of brain cancer treatment is to successfully eliminate the largest number of abnormal cells as possible while not damaging the cells that surround the abnormal ones that are considered to be healthy. Here, you will learn more information pertaining to brain cancer radiation therapy.

External Therapy

Individuals that require brain cancer radiation therapy may opt for the external therapy treatment. This type of radiation therapy is made possible by a machine in the external environment of the patient. The technologically advanced machine will emit a large amount of radiation towards the area that the cancer is present.

Those that choose this type of treatment may have it performed on an outpatient basis. While used in other types of cancer such as those that affect the bladder, the prostate and similar areas, this form of treatment has proven to be highly successful for those suffering from the uncomfortable symptoms associated with brain tumors. There are two subtypes of radiation treatment that is considered to be external. They are "Intraoperative Radiation Therapy" and "Prophylactic Cranial Irradiation".

Internal Therapy

Internal therapy is another type of brain cancer radiation therapy that many doctors and patients agree is highly beneficial in killing cancerous cells and reducing the sizes of tumors within the body. Instead of using a machine that emits radiation, the radiation is typically contained within a container that is often identified as an implant.

Individuals that engage in this type of treatment are typically admitted to the hospital. This is because of the fact that the implant must be placed within the body so that the medication may start to work against the cancerous cells. Internal therapy is identified by the way that the medication implant is placed in the body. There are two subtypes. The first is called "Interstitial Radiation". The second type of internal based radiation is identified as "Intracavitary Radiation".

Conclusion

Brain cancer radiation therapy has been successful in nine of ten cases. While there are some side effects and symptoms that may be potentially dangerous, this is rare as medical doctors watch the individual undergoing therapy very closely. This means that if any complications come up, they may be dealt with quickly. If you have brain cancer, it is important to ensure that you discuss all of your treatment options with a doctor prior to initiating brain cancer radiation therapy.

About the Author: Anne Ahira is an established entrepreneur and successful coach in her country of Indonesia. Her success story has been published in many nationwide publications in Indonesia. Making a lucrative income online is a challenging endeavor, but by getting the *right* information, it is an endeavor that you can succeed at! If you want to LEARN how to make a LUCRATIVE income online from Professional Marketers you can TRUST, below is the *only* product Anne Ahira recommends: http://www.anneahirarecommends.com/.

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Thursday, June 23, 2011

Brain Cancer Symptoms

Brain Cancer is a malignancy that can be detected and treated only with a detailed medical examination. It is not a routine ailment since in most cases it is fatal. It normally strikes when one type of the brain cell transforms and loses its normal characteristics and starts multiplying to form an abnormal mass of cells called a tumor. However, not all brain tumors are malignant. Benign brain tumors pose no threat and can be successfully removed.

The malignant brain tumors grow very aggressively and they destroy the healthy brain cells. Continuous growth of abnormal cells also increases the intracranial pressure resulting in malfunctioning of other brain organs and tissues.

There are two types of Brain Cancer. The Primary Brain Cancer originates in the brain itself and generally confines itself to the brain only. The second type is the Secondary Brain Cancer which is an extension of a cancer in some other part of the body gradually spreading to the brain.

The symptoms of brain tumor depend on the part of the brain affected i.e. the location of the tumor. There are numerous symptoms which if not cured by basic medication need to be examined in detail for indications of brain tumor. These are:

* Headaches - most common due to increased intracranial pressure as a result of the growing tumor.
* Nausea, Vomiting & Seizures.
* Difficulty in maintaining body balance.
* Short lapses in memory.
* Swelling in the brain.
* Weakness in the arms or legs or both.
* Poor motor functions.
* Slurring.
* Lowered eye vision.
* Spells of dizziness.
* Lack of coordination in speech and action.
* Numbness of limbs.
* Difficulty in recollecting events.
* Hallucinating.
* Persistent general weakness.
* Falling or stumbling.
* Changes in pupil sizes of both eyes.
* Change in gait.
* Cognitive decline.
* Mood changes.

It is advisable to see a doctor whenever you feel you have a tumor. If you do not share your concerns with your doctor, they may not get addressed timely.


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Cell/Cordless Phones and the Link to Malignant Brain Tumours

Until recently, there had been a lack of information about the health risks from cell phones by doctors and scientists in the Unites States and Canada. Dr. Ronald B. Herberman's recommendation to drastically reduce the use of cell phones, especially with children, has begun to shine a light on the information regarding phone radiation that has been lacking in the U.S. Dr. Herberman is by no means the first to bring attention to the dangers of cell phone radiation.

Research by University of Washington professor Dr. Henry Lai shows brain cells are clearly damaged by microwave levels far below the U.S. government's 'safety' guidelines. Dr. Lai notes that even tiny doses of radio frequency can accumulate over time and lead to harmful effects. He warns that public exposure to radiation from wireless transmitters 'should be limited to a minimum.'

Dr. Henry Lai's studies confirm that cell and cordless phone microwave can:

Damage nerves in the scalpCause blood cells to leak hemoglobinCause memory loss and mental confusionCause headaches and induce extreme fatigueCreate joint pain, muscle spasms and tremorsCreate burning sensation and rash on the skinAlter the brain's electrical activity during sleepInduce ringing in the ears, impair sense of smellPrecipitate cataracts, retina damage and eye cancerOpen the blood-brain barrier to viruses and toxinsReduce the number and efficiency of white blood cellsStimulate asthma by producing histamine in mast cellsCause digestive problems and raise bad cholesterol levelsStress the endocrine system, especially pancreas, thyroid, ovaries, and testes

For the last 40 years everyone has been told of the dangers of smoking. Today, wireless phone research stands where smoking research stood then. Recent news has stated that cell and cordless phones can lead to brain tumors. Dr. Vini Gautam Khurana, a Mayo Clinic-trained neurosurgeon with an advanced neurosurgery Fellowship in cerebral vascular and tumour microsurgery from the Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix, Arizona, published a critical review stating that "malignant brain tumour incidence and its associated death rate will be observed globally to rise within" the next 10 years due to cell phone use. Dr. Khurana believes that children are at the greatest risk due to brain tissue that is still developing. Still today, with the dangers we know about smoking, hundreds of thousands of people die yearly from smoking related ailments. Dr. George Carlo, Ph.D, M.S., J.D, is a public health scientist, epidemiologist, lawyer, and the founder of the Science and Public Policy Institute, believes that by 2015, "one out of every four people will suffer from some symptom of illness from cell phone use." Starting today, we need to limit the use of cell phones, especially among children, and eliminate non-essential calls.

Our most precious resource, our nation's children are exposed to a risk that no one seems to notice: cell phone radiation. While scientists around the world are pressuring their local governments to restrict the use of wireless devices by children, the U.S. and Canada do nothing. Go to any mall, movie theater, or school and you'll see young people all with one ear to the newest devices on the market. The brain of a child is constantly developing, undergoing changes and obtaining more information in a few short years at a rate that won't be matched for the rest of their lives. Add to this the radiation from cell phone exposure through the inner ear and it creates a laboratory with unknown consequences. Studies over the last five years have shown that the rate at which children develop autism is concurrent with increased cell phone use. The studies also suggest the electromagnetic radiation from wireless devices (like cell phones) in conjunction with environmental and genetic factors all increase the incidence of autism.

With the prevalence of the link of cell phone use to cancer in the media as of late, professions other than just those in the medical community are beginning to take notice. The article Cell Phone Use and Cancer: The Debate Continues from LawyersandSettlements.com discusses not only the possible link of Senator Ted Kennedy's brain tumor to cell phone radiation, but the Larry King Live show from earlier this month on cell phones.

On May 23, 2008, The Larry King Show's topic was "Are Cell Phones Dangerous?" CNN Medical Director, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, was very supportive of the fact that mobile phones could be dangerous. Guests on the program that evening included Johnnie Cochran's widow and his neurosurgeon. Johnnie Cochran had died from a brain tumor three years ago. At that time, his daughter had attributed his death to his cell phone use. The tumor which killed him was located behind the ear the he had used while talking on his phone.

Near the end of the program, Dr. Gupta made two suggestions which he felt would decrease the potential risk from mobile phone usage:

Use a case on your hip to hold your phone.Use a wired headset to keep the cell phone away from the ear.

Both of these suggestions are wrong!

The reason why carrying a mobile phone on the hip isn't any safer than carrying it in your pocket is the fact that it transmits radiation directly into the body while your cell phone is on. For men, studies done by the American Society for Reproductive Health have shown that this radiation affects men's fertility and can lower sperm count. For pregnant women, carrying a mobile phone this way may affect the unborn child's future behavioral patterns, according to a recent UCLA study. What should be done is when the cell phone is not being used, shut it off.

As for wired headsets, studies in Europe by one of the most influential consumer protection organizations concluded that wired headsets increase radiation into the ear by as much as 300%! Bluetooth devices are nearly as dangerous since the signal from the phone transmits radiation directly into the ear. The solution to this is the WaveShield.


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Brain Cancer Nutrition Therapy

Medical doctors have established the fact that brain cancer nutrition therapy is beneficial for those that suffer from mild to severe cases of brain cancer. Cancer is an illness that has the capability of depleting the body of essential vitamin, minerals, and other types of nutrients. When an individual undergoes brain cancer treatment, even more of those important nutrients are wiped out in the body.

Not only this, but the cancer patient often experiences issues when it comes to having an appetite. Individuals that have brain cancer are already quite vulnerable, but when poor nutrition is added to the mix, it could wreck devastation upon the health of the patient. In this guide, you will discover a new form of brain cancer therapy that focuses on nutrition.

Assessing Nutritional Needs

If you want to engage in a brain cancer nutrition therapy treatment plan, it is important to have your nutritional needs evaluated by a medical professional. There are many tests that may be performed so that the medical doctor may get a good snapshot of what nutritional needs you require.

One of the most common is the test that evaluates your blood. This test will validate whether or not your base figures are either low or high when it comes to protein and other nutrients in the blood. In addition to this, the medical professional will likely inquire about the health history that you have had. It is also common for them to ask questions about the way that you eat, immediately followed by an examination pertaining to your body mass index.

The Nutrition Therapy Plan

Once your doctor establishes your nutritional needs, they will determine which type of diet will work best for you. You will be encouraged to consume only those foods with provide you with the optimal health benefits. If you have brain cancer, this is typically always individualized for you.

In addition to encouraging you to consume only those foods that are positive to your overall health, the nutrition therapy plan will also include exercises that you will be safe performing during the course of your disease and the treatment of your disease. You may also be encouraged to take nutritional supplements. There are many supplements that have been found to benefit brain cancer patients in one way or another. These include Selenium, Vitamin E, and Beta Carotene.

Support

If you are going to indulge in brain cancer nutrition therapy, it is important to know and understand that this is not just about changing your lifestyle; it is about modifying your behavior so that you may optimize your health. It is important to have a good support system in place.

This could be relatives, friends, neighbors, a community support group, clergy members, and even medical doctors. If you have a good support team in place, succeeding in brain cancer nutrition therapy will likely be both positive and productive for your health - both inside and outside.

----------------------------
About the Author: Anne Ahira is an established entrepreneur and successful coach in her country of Indonesia. Her success story has been published in many nationwide publications in Indonesia.

Making a lucrative income online is a challenging endeavor, but by getting the *right* information, it is an endeavor that you can succeed at!

If you want to LEARN how to make a LUCRATIVE income online from Professional Marketers you can TRUST, below is the *only* product Anne Ahira recommends: http://www.anneahirarecommends.com/

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Long-Term Use of Mobile Phones Increase Risk of Suffering From Brain Cancer

Scientists have pointed out that long-term use of mobile phones can increase the risk of cancer. But the World Health Organization had conducted a 10-year study on the safety of mobile phones and concluded that mobile phone didn't cause cancer because the relevant evidence is not sufficient to draw a conclusion. In order to find impact on human health from cell phone, they spent at least 15 million pounds in the past 10 years, but the authors of this paper had to admit that this effect requires further study in order to give the final conclusion.

Reports from World Health Organization would be released until this week later, but two national newspapers in the United Kingdom reported that invoked the scientific evidence use the phone less than 30 minutes per day at least 10 years would increase the risk of suffering from brain cancer, Over the past 10 years, they have been carried out this phone research in 13 countries, which is regarded the largest study by far.

Although we clearly that when we put the phone at the ear, radiation from cell phone is absorbed by the mind, but it is not confirmed that more often use cell phones are hazardous to health, it may be due to the time of the widely use of mobile phones in public is not long. From 2000 to 2004, researchers conducted a study which 1.3 million people was participated to see the time they use the phone. Among them, some people suffer from cancer while some people are very healthy.

Some research has been published, which showed that people who used cell phone at least 30 minutes a day suffered from an increased risk of Glioma. The place where brain tumor lie is just the side they always put phone calls. In addition, the study found another big question: short term use of mobile phones, in fact, helps prevent cancer. Even if the authors think this is unlikely. As the problem, they want more research to get a final conclusion and the investigation should firstly be launch among young people.

Although the Ministry of Health in British has not updated the relevant guidelines in the past 4 years, but the experts pointed out that adults should discourage small children playing phone chat, as for adult, try to answer the phone as shorter as possible. Other countries have also taken corresponding measures, such as encouraging people to use headphones to answer the phone or using text messaging instead of phone.


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Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Coffee, Tea, Caffeine and Brain Cancer Risk

The information in this column is intended for informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice or recommendations by the author. Please consult with your physician before making any lifestyle or medication changes, or if you have any other concerns regarding your health.

Coffee and tea are widely enjoyed around the world, and both have been the subject of numerous health claims (most of them unproven). Tea, and green tea in particular, has been the focus of extensive research, with many prior studies suggesting that tea may improve cardiovascular health and, to a much lesser extent, may decrease the risk of some cancers. Much of the published research regarding coffee has, on the other hand, been focused on trying to disprove purported links between coffee consumption and a potential increase in the risk of some cancers. (Fortunately, the overwhelming majority of such research has not identified a strong link between moderate coffee consumption and an increased risk of cancer.)

The European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study is a huge ongoing prospective multinational public health study, and several of this enormous study's preliminary results have already been published. The EPIC study is focused on potential links between diet, nutritional status, lifestyle, and environmental factors and the incidence of cancer (among other chronic diseases). (EPIC is one of the largest studies of diet and health ever undertaken, and has already recruited 520,000 research volunteers in Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.) Now, a new update from this historic public health study suggests that increased coffee and tea consumption may be associated with a decreased incidence of malignant brain tumors. This new update from the EPIC study appears in the current issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Following an average duration of follow-up of nearly 9 years, 588 new cases of brain tumors were diagnosed among the EPIC research volunteers. Gliomas, the most common and most aggressive type of brain tumors that occur in adults, were found to be 34 percent less common among people who drank at least 100 milliliters (3.4 ounces) of coffee or tea per day. (Although not statistically significant, this association was also noted to be stronger in men, with a 41 percent lower risk of gliomas in men, as compared to a 26 percent reduction in glioma incidence in women.)

Although it is not clear what causes gliomas of the brain, prior public health studies have at least suggested a link between glioma brain tumors and chronic occupational exposure to high-intensity electrical and magnetic fields, and to rubber and plastics manufacturing. (As I discuss in "A Cancer Prevention Guide for the Human Race, there is also some data linking prolonged cell phone use with an increased incidence of gliomas and other brain tumors.)

Other smaller public health studies have also identified an apparent link between increased caffeine intake and a decreased incidence of gliomas, and there is laboratory evidence available suggesting that caffeine may reduce the growth of malignant glioma cells growing in culture dishes. Thus, these new findings from the giant EPIC study further suggest the possibility that coffee, tea, and other caffeinated beverages might be able to reduce the risk of gliomas of the brain.

For a groundbreaking overview of cancer risks, and evidence-based strategies to reduce your risk of developing cancer, order your copy of my new book, "A Cancer Prevention Guide for the Human Race," from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, Vroman's Bookstore, and other fine bookstores!


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Tuesday, June 21, 2011

The Challenges of Being a Caregiver When Brain Cancer is Involved

My husband has glioblastoma multiforme, an incurable form of brain cancer. Ted Kennedy died from it. The early challenges I am experiencing as a caregiver are disbelief, feeling overwhelmed, trying to define my role as caregiver, maneuvering a change in my marital relationship, recognizing the need for financial and legal planning, and caring for myself.

Disbelief. It is difficult for me to stay focused. It is hard to grasp what is going on. There are a few facts that I hold onto. My husbands' symptoms developed rapidly during a four week interval. From being able to speak normally, he started searching for words, and then progressing to not remembering the names of objects, substituting words and phrases which didn't make sense, to not being able to spell. He had an emergency MRI, which showed a large mass over his left temporal lobe. A rushed appointment for brain surgery was made in the next state. I was told that he would not be expected to live more than one or two years even with the tumor removed and aggressive treatment undertaken.

Overwhelmed. Initially I felt completely overwhelmed, like I didn't know whether I was coming or going. Ten days after surgery, I am going in and out of feeling overwhelmed. I realize that I'm not attentive to my surroundings, as though I'm zoned out somewhere. My center of my chest hurts. I know this to be a major sign of stress. Also my breathing is shallow. I must tell myself to breathe.

Caregiver Role. I'm abruptly being thrust into the role of caregiver, and I'm trying to figure out what this means practically. My husband's expressive language limitations cause major problems in communication and in joint decision making. I need help in defining my role. Hopefully, when we go to the Cancer Center, the social worker will help educate me.

Marital Relationship. I'm having to take over decision making and financial management. My husband needs reminders and direction. We are both distressed. Both of us become frustrated and irritable with each other. He says things to push my buttons, and I react. I'm on a sharp learning curve. I need a support group and will go to a meeting this coming week. I also need personal counseling, and my appointment is made.

Financial and Legal Planning. I need to make sure that our affairs are in order. My husband had this role before his surgery. I'm discovering that our papers are in disorder. He may have allowed his life insurance, naming me as beneficiary, to lapse. I will go to a lawyer even though my husband does not want me to, nor does he want me to spend our money on legal fees. I feel conflicted in going ahead without our discussing and agreeing to a plan, but this is the new reality of our relationship and my role as caregiver.

Self Care. It is critical that I take exceptionally good care of myself. I have my own health issues and must not get run down or stressed. Otherwise, I will rapidly decline and then both of us would need caregivers.


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Metastatic Brain Tumors at a Glance

Most individuals that suffer from brain tumors have metastatic brain tumors. When it comes to brain tumor diagnoses, this is the most common type of brain tumor identified in patients. When an individual suffers from this type of tumor, it means that it is a type of cancer that has developed in the brain that has originated from another region of the body.

There are many different types of cancers that a person may acquire that have the capability of spreading to the brain region. Cancers that affect the lungs, the kidneys, the breasts, the bladder, and other areas of the body may result in the onset of metastatic brain cancer.

Symptoms

There are many symptoms that may develop when an individual develops a metastatic brain tumor. These symptoms come as a result of the fact that tumors have the capability of destroying cells in the brain, the inflammation that typically occurs with tumors, and the pressure that the tumor may cause as it grows.

The symptoms that are experienced are typically unique to the individual that experiences them. No two patients typically have the same symptoms. The following represents the symptoms that may be experienced when a patient has a metastatic brain tumor:

? It is quite common for individuals to experience complications when it comes to basic coordination. It is not at all unusual for a person to appear to be quite clumsy, to drop things that they are carrying, or to fall. Weakness in various areas of the body is also quite common when it comes to the physical complications associated with brain tumors.

? Emotional changes are quite common when it comes to those that have brain tumors. These changes usually occur quite rapidly and the person may exhibit an entirely different personality than they normally exhibit.

? For most people that suffer from any type of brain tumor, headaches are common. These may be mild, moderate, or severe.

? Cognitive changes and complications are quite common among those that experience a metastatic brain cancer. These may include the inability to retain information as well as they used to, a general form of memory loss, judgment that is impaired, and even complications associated with numbers and basic complications.

? Many patients will start to experience seizures. When seizures are experienced, it is typically a new issue for those that have a tumor.

? Complications with both the vision and the speech are relatively common among patients with this common tumor type.

? Many will experience a general feeling of malaise that may or may not be accompanied by a low grade to moderate fever when they experience a metastatic brain tumor.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many challenges for the individual that suffers from a metastatic brain tumor. This is the most common type of tumor that an individual may suffer from. Since doctors deal with this tumor type on a regular basis, there are many treatments available that may assist in eliminating the tumor and/or reducing it in size so that the symptoms are reduced and the patient is more comfortable overall.

If you are diagnosed with this condition, be certain to work closely with a medical doctor in order to ensure that you have the opportunity of improving your quality of life by reducing symptoms.

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About the Author: Anne Ahira is an established entrepreneur and successful coach in her country of Indonesia. Her success story has been published in many nationwide publications in Indonesia.

Making a lucrative income online is a challenging endeavor, but by getting the *right* information, it is an endeavor that you can succeed at!

If you want to LEARN how to make a LUCRATIVE income online from Professional Marketers you can TRUST, below is the *only* product Anne Ahira recommends: http://www.anneahirarecommends.com/

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Monday, June 20, 2011

An in-Depth Review on Brain Cancer Symptoms

In a world where improving health is consistently being expressed as a priority in the media, at the doctor's office, and other resources many are now showing an interest in learning what the most common brain cancer symptoms are. While there are many tumors that do produce symptoms in individuals that are suffering from them, there are many tumors that simply do not result in any symptoms whatsoever.

As a matter of fact, many brain tumors are not identified in an individual until after they have experienced death. The symptoms most commonly associated with these tumors often mimic other medical conditions. It is important to understand that knowing what the brain cancer symptoms are does not mean that you may do a self diagnosis based on the symptoms. Diagnostic tools are necessary for an official diagnosis.

What Causes Brain Cancer Symptoms?

There are many contributing factors that may result in brain cancer symptoms. If you are attempting to learn more about these symptoms, it is important that you gain an understanding of the factors that result in the symptoms. The first factor is that the tumor presses against certain regions of the brain and results in complications.

In many instances, the symptoms come as a result of inflammation that occurs in and around the brain. The size of the tumor and the rate of speed that the tumor grows also has a large impact on the symptoms that an individual experiences. Many medical professionals also agree that the type of tumor that an individual has may have a direct impact on the symptoms that the person experiences.

Common Symptoms

There are many symptoms that are considered to be common. Based on statistical data, the following symptoms happen the most among those that have brain cancer:

• Most individuals will experience mild to severe headaches if they have brain cancer.

• Weakness in various areas of the body and the effects of this weakness, such as appearing to be clumsy, is common among those with cancer in the brain area. Challenges involving motor skills, such as walking, are also common.

• Many individuals will start to experience seizures when cancer is present in and around the brain.

• The mental status may become altered in one way or another. This means that the sufferer may find that they are unable to concentrate appropriately; they may experience issues with memory, and may even have a dramatic reduction as far as their inattentiveness is concerned.

• Changes with the speech, the vision, and other basic skills may be altered rapidly and dramatically.

• The emotional capacity of the brain cancer patient may be altered. In addition to this, it has been established that the intellect of the person may quickly start to decline.

There are many brain cancer symptoms that may be experienced. If you have been diagnosed with brain cancer and start to exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, unusual headaches, a sense of lethargy, and seizures, it is important to seek medical care for your condition.

There are many different brain cancer symptoms that may be experienced. It is important to learn as much as possible so that you may understand what to expect from your tumor. If you suspect something is off, it is important to make an appointment with your doctor.

----------------------------
About the Author: Anne Ahira is an established entrepreneur and successful coach in her country of Indonesia. Her success story has been published in many nationwide publications in Indonesia.

Making a lucrative income online is a challenging endeavor, but by getting the *right* information, it is an endeavor that you can succeed at!

If you want to LEARN how to make a LUCRATIVE income online from Professional Marketers you can TRUST, below is the *only* product Anne Ahira recommends: http://www.anneahirarecommends.com/

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Sunday, June 19, 2011

What Do You Need To Know About Brain Cancer?

By Henry Relfield Henry Relfield
Level: Basic PLUS

Henry Relfield is a medical expert in cancer diseases for more than 15 years and he currently working in Jackson County Public Hospital at Maquoketa, ...

While data are inconclusive, those concerned about developing brain cancer may want to reduce their exposure to possible contributing factors, such as regular use of cell phones and consumption of aspartame (a synthetic sweetener sold under the brand names NutraSweet and Equal, and added to many sugar-free foods and beverages). Preliminary reports have indicated exposure to pesticides may increase risk of brain tumor, but these reports are not conclusive. There have also been reports of higher incidences of brain tumor in children with high exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs), for instance, those living near high-voltage power lines. However, more recent research discounts the link between electromagnetic fields and childhood brain cancer.

A whole food diet that minimizes processed foods and artificial ingredients is recommended. Eating organic foods will support overall health and may provide food-based nutrients that will support apoptosis of brain cancer cells. Aside from the data showing a potential link between pesticides and brain tumor as well as aspartame and brain cancer, no conclusive relationships between diet and brain tumor have been found. For now, avoiding consumption of pesticides and aspartame by keeping to an organic whole foods diet seems to be the best dietary advice.

Some herbs and nutrients are showing promise as potential complementary treatments for brain cancer, such as:
Curcumin: Several cellular studies have found that curcumin significantly repressed invasion of glioma and other brain cancer cells in vitroDong Quai: Early research on this herb commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine indicates promise for primary brain tumor treatment. Research in Taiwan demonstrated that Dong Quai had anti-cancer effects on glioblastoma cells.Ginseng: A recent report in the International Journal of Cancer indicates that a component in Panax ginseng (which the researchers call compound K) may help control the growth and invasiveness of brain tumors.Green tea: Canadian researchers found that epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), an active ingredient in green tea, may help halt the progression of glioma cells in vitro.Phosphatidylserine and ginkgo biloba: Other supplements to consider for primary brain tumors include phosphatidylserine and ginkgo biloba, which are known to enhance brain functions. These nutrients may reduce treatment-related side effects such as cognitive dysfunction and memory loss. Additionally, they may exert some preventive effects by stimulating apoptosis and reducing genetic damage to brain cells.

Henry Relfield is a medical expert in cancer diseases for more than 15 years and he has been writing many well-known cancer-related articles including, diagnosis and causes of tumors, cancer-fighting recipes, common signs and symptoms of tumors, treatment options, etc. To find out more about his articles, you can visit at: http://www.cancer-dictionary.com/

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Henry Relfield - EzineArticles Expert Author This article has been viewed 107 time(s).
Article Submitted On: January 09, 2011


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What Are The Symptoms And Stages Of a Brain Tumor?

From the latest research in the field of medicine it is evident that there are lots of patients who are suffering from the painful condition of brain tumor. It is a disease which has taken many lives and still many are struggling hard to survive from this detrimental syndrome. For the cure, many neurologists have been successful in fighting back this disease but still there is a lot more to do to face this challenge. And for this reason, the experts from cancer treatment and radiation therapy are coming forward to participate in the fight against cancer.

Brain tumor is a very harmful and dangerous disease. It only results in the patient's death if it is not controlled in its earlier stage. By reading this article you will know more about Brain tumor, its symptoms and its treatment process. This information will be helpful if you are suffering from the same condition.

Symptoms:

There are many symptoms of brain tumor which neurologist describe. Among them, the most common symptoms are Headaches, Nausea, Hearing troubles, Sight misperception, Vision problem and sometimes problems in the behavioral functioning.

Headaches:

Regular headaches are common in a brain tumor patient. These are regular and frequent and can take place at any instant. When the headaches are in the primary stage, they are preventable, but when the disease enters a severe stage, they are unstoppable and can even take the patient's life. Well it can be and cannot be a complete sign of a brain tumor. If the patient is receiving constant headaches then it can be a sign but consulting the experienced practitioner to find out if it is really a symptom of this condition or not.

Vomiting and Nausea:

These symptoms are sometimes rare and sometimes frequent in the patient. Vomiting and nausea can be a middle stage symptom of the brain tumor, but for confirmation the patient should consult the neurologist. With the latest research, the experts have declared that there are 22 patients out of hundred who had called Nausea as brain tumor's symptom.

Loss of hearing and vision:

According to the latest report, there are 25% patients who had loss of hearing and vision. But it is also not a true symptom for brain tumor. Sometimes, it depends upon the tendency of the patient as to what sort of symptoms he or she is carrying with the disease.

Stages:

Stage 1:

This is a very primary stage of brain tumor in which the cells are not fully shaped and they do not even start to multiply. The cure is easy in this stage as the cells can easily be separated from the brain through a surgery.

Stage 2:

This is a stage where the cell activates in a slow growth form. This stage requires instant surgery; otherwise there is chance for the disease to go into its third stage which is more dangerous and risky,

Stage 3:

This stage is proficient for the cells to split up. They starts growing more rapidly and it requires a serious attention if the patient is to be recovered.

Stage 4:

This stage is the extreme of all stages where the cure becomes very difficult because the tumor cells have populated the entire brain section. This stage is very difficult to cure but can be cured if an urgent surgery is carried out. Most of the brain tumor's patient die in this last stage as many times the surgery does not remove the disease. That is why many neurologists advice the patients to treat it the very first stage so that the disease stops spreading.


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Saturday, June 18, 2011

What is Brain Cancer?

Brain cancer is a serious medical condition that is often referred to by medical professionals as "Meningioma" and also as "Glioma". When an individual has this type of cancer, it means that there are abnormal cells growing in and/or around the brain. This form of cancer may develop from the brain cells that are considered to be primary, but it could develop from cells that are specific to certain locations in and around the brain.

These regions include the membranes and even the small blood vessels within or around the brain. There are types of cancer that result from cells that spread from other regions in the body - such as organs. In this brain health guide, you will learn about details pertaining to brain cancer.

What is a Brain Tumor?

When an individual has brain cancer, it indicates that they also have a brain tumor. The abnormal cell growth that indicates brain cancer is referred to as a tumor. Tumors, while abnormal, are not always cancerous. Those that are simple growths and are not cancerous are identified as "Benign". Tumors that are found to possess cells that are cancerous are identified as "Malignant".

If these tumors are identified in the brain or the area surrounding the brain, they are considered to be quite serious and even have the potential to be life-threatening. This is mostly due to the fact that the cancer contained within these tumors has the capability of spreading in a rapid fashion. Tumors are further identified as "Primary" and "Secondary" among medical professionals.

The Cause

There are many theories on why brain cancer develops, but there is no one specific cause that has been identified. Scientists and medical researchers are still conducting tests and researching the onset of brain cancer in order to better understand it.

The tumors that are identified as "Primary" are believed to be a result of abnormal cell growth in the actual tissues of the brain, while the "Secondary" tumors appear to result from abnormal cell growths from other locations of the body and then travel through the bloodstream until they reach the brain. The other theories surrounding the development of brain cancer identify the following as risk factors:

? Many seem to have a genetic predisposition towards developing brain cancer when someone in the family had the condition in the past.
? Certain individuals are at a higher risk for developing this condition due to the fact that they work in certain professions, such as those that are professional embalmers and those that work in refineries for oil production.
? Radiation exposure or overexposure may result in brain cancer.
? Smoking has been established as a common risk factor of developing this form of cancer.
? There are many theories that are considered a bit unusual, yet are being investigated to determine if they result in brain cancer. These theories include the use of sweeteners that are artificial, cell phone use, consistent computer exposure, head traumas, and even consuming foods that are processed and/or heated in a microwave.

If you are concerned that you or a loved has this cancer, it is important to make an appointment with a medical professional as soon as possible. Many cases of brain cancer may be resolved immediately if they are caught early enough. Even if there is no way to treat the cancer, there are treatments that will soothe the symptoms associated with cancer.

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Author: Anne Ahira, CEO of Asian Brain Company

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Symptoms and Signs of Brain Cancer and Treatment

Every individual having brain tumors should receive unique and individual brain cancer treatment. The treatment generally depends on the individual's age, general health, and size and location of the tumor.

There are several questions surrounding brain cancer treatment. The nature of treatment, its effects, and the long-term outcomes are some of them. Doctors are best equipped to handle these questions.

Overview of brain cancer treatment

Brain cancer treatment is generally complex. Some treatment plans will require multiple doctors.

1. The medical team usually comprises neurosurgeons, oncologists, radiation oncologists, and a general practitioner. Individuals may also want to include a dietitian, social worker, and physiotherapists.
2. The nature of the treatment will depend on location, size and type of the tumor. Existing medical conditions and age are other factors that need considerations when deciding the nature of treatment.

Brain Cancer Surgery

Most individuals who have a brain tumor are required to undergo surgery.

1. Surgery helps confirm the abnormality seen in the brain scans. Nature of the tumor and method of removal are also determined at the time of surgery. Surgeons will most probably take a sample of the tumor that needs to be removed.
2. When it comes to benign tumors, most symptoms vanish with the removal of the tumor.
3. A modern method for removal of tumors can be performed without a knife and is called stereotactic surgery. The tumor is removed without opening the skull. MRI and CT scans are used to determine the exact location of the tumor within the brain. Radiation beams are focused on the tumor from different directions. Radiation helps destroy the tumor. This method is also known as 'gamma knife'.
4. Knifeless surgeries have fewer complications. The recovery time, too, is much shorter.

Before surgery, individuals may have to undergo several treatment plans.

1. Administration of dexamethasone helps reduce swelling. It is also a steroid drug.
2. Treatment with anticonvulsant drugs, such as carbamazepine, relieves seizures. It also prevents its formation.
3. Excessive cerebrospinal fluid around the brain can be drained away by a thick plastic tube known as a shunt. One end of the shunt is fixed in the cavity where the fluid gathers. The other end is threaded under the skin to another body part. The fluid drains into a site from where it can be easily eliminated.

Brain Cancer Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, involves usage of high-energy rays to destroy cells of the tumor. This prevents tumors from growing and multiplying.

1. Individuals who cannot undergo surgery are prescribed radiation therapy. In some cases, it may be used after surgery to destroy tumor cells.
2. Radiation therapy is local in nature, which means that only targeted cells are affected. Other brain and body cells are not affected.

Palliative treatments are designed to elevate the comfort levels of the patient. It also helps ease pain. Patients can also explore the field of latest treatments by signing up for clinical trials.


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