MINIMIZE YOUR CHANCES OF HAVING CANCER/CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES BY EATING PHYTOCHEMICAL RICH FOODS.
Firstly I would like to define phytochemical as a chemical found in plants. Some phytochemicals may contribute to a reduced risk of cancer or other cardiovascular diseases in people who consume them regularly. Variety in your diet also contributes to diet adequacy and a healthier diet that improves your immunity to such deadly diseases as cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Variety in your diet means choosing a number of different foods within any given food group, rather than eating the “same old thing” day after day.
An added bonus in eating a variety of foods is the inclusion of a rich supply of what scientists call phytochemicals. These substances are not absolutely required elements of the diet . Still, many of these substances probably provide significant health benefits. Considerable research attention is focused on the various phytochemicals in reducing the risk for certain diseases. Because current vitamin and mineral supplements contain few or none of these potentially beneficial substances, they generally are available only from food.
Numerous populations studies show reduced cancer among people who regularly consume fruits and vegetables. This is true for cancer of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, breast, lung, bladder and the always-talked about mesothelioma cancer. RESEARCHERS SURMISE THAT SOME PHYTOCHEMICALS PRESENT IN THE FRUITS AND VEGETABLES BLOCK THE CANCER PROCESS. Remember that cancer develops over many years via a multistep process. If an agent such as a phytochemical can block any one of the steps in this process, the chances that cancer will ultimately appear in the body are reduced. Other phytochemicals have been linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Could it be that, because humans evolved on a wide variety of plant based foods, the body developed with a need for these phytochemicals to maintain optimal.
It will likely take many years for scientists to unravel the important effects of the myriad of phytochemicals in foods, and it is unlikely that it is will ever be available in supplement form. For this reason , leading heart disease and cancer researchers suggest that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is the most reliable way to obtain the potential benefits of phytochemicals.
PHYTOCHEMICAL COMPOUNDS UNDER STUDY
Phytochemical Food Sources
Allyl sulfides/organosulfurs Garlic,onions,leeks
Saponins Garlic, onions,licorice, legumes
Phenolic acids All plants
Monoterpenes Oranges, lemons, grapefruit
Carotenoids Orange, red, yellow fruits and vegetables (egg yolks are a source as well)
CANCER AND AMERICANS
Cancer used to be the second leading cause of death for American adults as at 2002. But recently in 2007, cancer has entered the first position with heart diseases.
Ten Leading Causes of Death in the United States.
Rank Cause of Death Percent of Total Deaths
All causes 100
1 Heart disease (primary heart attack) 27
2 Cancer 27
3 Cerebrovascular diseases (stroke) 7
4 Chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases
and conditions (lung diseases) 5
5 Pneumonia and Influenza 4
6 Accidents and adverse effects 4
Motor Vehicle accidents (2)
All other accidents and adverse effects (2)
7 Diabetes 3
8 Suicide 1
9 Kidney Disease 1
10 Liver Disease 1
(Wardlaw and Kessel, 2002)
The good news is that new cancer cases and cancer deaths for all cancers (except lung cancer in women ),has declined between 1990 and 1997 in the United States. The number of new cases per 100,000 persons declined on average of 0.8% each year between 1990 and 1997. The number of new cases each year peaked in 1992 and has been declining since. The decrease has been greater among men, who have a higher number of cases than women.
Lung, prostrate, breast , and colorectal cancers account for slightly over half of all cancers and were (through 1997) the leading cause of cancer death for every racial and ethnic group Cases are declining for prostrate cancer incidence and mortality. The incidence of breast cancer remains unchanged, but deaths have dropped since 1995. But has EXCALATED SINCE 2006 HERE. Overall deaths from lung cancer continue to decrease for men, but for women it is up. Colorectal cancer has been decreasing since 1985.
The only cancer that is increasing significantly is non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and what is normally called mesothelioma cancer.
DIET AND CANCER
Oxidative damage to DNA is likely to cause mutations and can be enhanced by some dietary factors or reduced by enzymes such as those that incorporate the trace mineral selenium. There is evidence that intake of selenium above the RDA has an anticancer effect in humans, but there aren’t enough data at this time to make a recommendation as to the extra amount needed.
Excessive energy intake in relation to need increases the risk of human cancer. Animal studies have shown that energy restriction during periods of rapid growth is protective against cancer. No doubt obesity increases the risk of cancers of the uterus, breast, kidney, and possibly the prostate, colon, and gallbladder. Excess body fat may affect sex hormones production, which increases cancer risk, or cancer cells may grow more easily when fuel is plentiful.
However, no link has been found between a low fat diet and the development of breast cancer, but excess body weight increases the risk. Perhaps certain fatty acids, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids in fish and olive oil are beneficial. Certainly, more research is needed in the area of body fat and the types of dietary fats consumed.
High intakes of vegetables and fruits have been associated with lower risks of many cancers. The constituents that are protective against cancer have not been identified, but the evidence supports the B-vitamins folate. Studies of colorectal cancer show an inverse relationship between folate status and the rate of cancer. An inadequate intake of folate could also influence the risk of mutation. Cruciferous vegetables are rich in cancer-preventing phytochemicals.
The data for vitamin C and protection from various cancers are either inconsistent or not specific enough to make a recommendation for intake.
High intake of meat and protein products has been associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer, which might be related to the saturated fat content of the food. Again, one should be cautious about concluding that all meat causes cancer, since there are so many types of meat consumed.
In addition, there is no question that excess alcohol consumption increases the risks of upper gastrointestinal tract cancers. Even moderate alcohol intake seems to increase the risk of cancers of the breast and colon.
Meat cooked at high temperature over an open flame, such as in charcoal broiling, produces polyaromatic hydocarbons, one being benzo-[a]pyrene. In generating benzo[a]pyrene, this cooking method produces a by product, which binds to DNA and produces tumors, such as in the colon.
Nitrosamines are carcinogenic. Nitrosamines are formed from nitrite. Nitrite exists in various foods and is produced endogenously from nitrate in vegetables. Nitrosamines compounds are found in cooked bacon, sausage, hot dogs, beer, cheese, and some nitrite-preserved foods.
Mycotoxins are toxins produced by fungi. Among the many examples is aflatoxin B1, a component of many moldy foods, such as moldy grain and peanuts. It is classified as a human carcinogen and is thought to cause liver cancer. Drought conditions in Asian and African countries have resulted in the widespread contamination of foods by aflatoxins. Even in the United States, corn has been found with increased carcinogen levels from aflatoxins B1 due to changing weather conditions, but grain elevators and FDA monitor grains for unsafe amounts. Current studies are focusing on various antioxidants that may protect us from environmental carcinogen, such as aflatoxins.
The National Academy of Sciences’ 1980 review of Diet, Nutrition, and Cancer recommended a fat intake of no more than 30% of calories, primarily to reduce the incidence of cancer. More recent evidence raises questions about this recommendation. The association between fat intake and cancer rates has come from large international differences in rates of breast, colon, prostrate, mesothelioma and endometrical cancer. These international differences are assumed to be due to the effect of animal fats, but the type of fat has remained controversial. Moreover, there are still more recent surveys that fail to find a correlation between fat intake and cancer. Certainly, there are wide gaps in the knowledge linking fat and cancer. A long-standing excess energy intake is likely a more important cause of cancer than fat per se.
Another recent discovery resulting from attempts to find prevention of cancer suggests that calcium intake is inversely related to cancer, especially colon cancer. It may be that calcium binds free fatty acid and bile acids in the colon, so that they are less likely to interact with certain types of intestinal cells, which in turn becomes cancer.
The hormone form of vitamin D-1,25(OH)2D-has been shown to inhibit the progression of human colorectal cells from cancerous polyps in patients with ulcerative colitis. These combined data suggest a chemopreventive action of vitamin D against colon neoplasms. This may be the beneficial effect of vitamin D-fortified dairy foods.
Based on our current knowledge of diet and cancer risk, the following guidelines are about all that can be recommended at this time: Remain physically active, avoid obesity, engage in physical training that promotes the formation of lean muscle, consume an abundance of fruits and vegetables and whole grains, consume plenty of low-fat and nonfat dairy products, avoid a high intake of red meat and animal fat, and avoid excessive use of alcohol.
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CANCER WARNING SIGNS
Remember also that , if a cancer is left untreated , it can spread quickly through out the body.When this happens, it is much more likely to lead to death. Thus, early detection is critical. Aids to early detection include the following warning signs:
¨ Unexplained weight loss
¨ A change in bowel or bladder habits
¨ A sore that does not heal
¨ Unusual bleeding or discharge
¨ A thickening or lump in the breast or elsewhere
¨ Indigestion or difficulty in swallowing
¨ An obvious change in a wart or mole
¨ A nagging cough or hoarseness
There are still other ways to detect cancer early. Colonoscopy examinations for middle-age and older adults, PSA (prostrate-specific antigen) tests for men over 50, and Papanicolaou tests (Pap smears) and regular breast examinations ( and mammograms) starting about age 40 to 50 ) for women are recommended. Finally, to learn still more about cancer, review these sources of credible cancer information on the internet.
American Cancer Society
CancerNet
Oncolink
Be on the lookout in order not to become one of the victims of killer cancer.Dr.Emmanuel E. Obiyo haven carried out many research projects on one of the world’s most dreaded disease called cancer came up with many generalizations including about the incidence of cancer in the western world or developed countries.In this particular study he outlined the following as the major causative factors for cancer.
(1)Over reliance on biologically/genetically improved foods.
(2)Over reliance on refined/artificially/ processed food items.
(3)Electromagnetic waves from the use of cellular phones and other electronic gadgets.
(4)Obesity.
(5)Alcoholism.
(6)Sedentary life style.
(7)Inherited genetic factors.
(8)Cigarette smoking.
(9)The use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides,herbicides in agriculture.
(10)Artificial breast feeding instead of exclusive breast feeding at the tender stage of infancy.
The western world in their plight for civilization, organization and development should try as much as possible strike a balance between nature and complex mechanization to avoid the harmful consequences of accumulative activities on the human race. (Ekeagwu, 2005) Africa should know what to emulate from the industrialized world before he can be infected. Non-Communicable Chronic Disease (NCCD)
Studies have shown that poor nutrition starts in utero and extends well into adolescent and adult life. Epidemiological evidences from both developing and industrialized countries now suggest a link between fetal under-nutrition and increased risk of various adults related chronic diseases the “fetal origin of disease hypothesis”. There is evidence3 of association between retarded fetal growth and blood pressure, non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), coronary hearth disease (CHD) and cancer in adult life. However, most of these diseases are diet related and sometimes called non communicable diet related diseases (NCDRD) and could result from inadequate consumption of some food component (sugar, antioxidant nutrient, fat, salt etc)
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Get it right by ekeagwu emmanuel obiyo
A cancer is defined as any malignant growth or tumor caused by abnormal and uncontrolled cell division; it may spread to other parts of the body through the lymphatic system or the blood stream.Foods that can help you develop immunity against cancer.Substantial information exists about the links between certain types of cancers and nutrition. It is important to note that other lifestyle factors, such as smoking, alcohol use, exercise level and obesity also play a role in the risk of developing cancer. The list below details common cancers and dietary choices which aid in prevention or increase the risk of the disease. Information provided by the article cancer and food on the victorian (australian) government website.Lung cancer - this is the leading cause of death from cancer in the world and smoking is mostly responsible. There is convincing evidence that diets high in vegetables and fruits are protective against lung cancer and that compounds called carotenoids, which are present in significant amounts in these foods, are probably responsible for some of this effect. However, the use of antioxidant supplements, such as beta-carotene and vitamin e, has not been proven to be effective in either prevention or treatment of lung cancer and may, in fact, increase the risk of developing cancer in those who smoke.Breast cancer - this is the most common type of cancer in women in the world. There is an increased risk of breast cancer with factors including rapid early growth, greater adult height and weight gain in adulthood. Much of the risk of developing breast cancer involves factors that influence oestrogen levels during a woman's reproductive life, such as age of menarche (first period), number of pregnancies and breastfeeding practices. Obese post-menopausal women have more than twice the average risk of breast cancer. Diets high in mono-unsaturated fat and high in vegetables and fruits may reduce the risk, while alcohol consumption increases the risk.Prostate cancer - this is the third most common cause of death of men in australia. Vegetables - soy in particular - may decrease the risk, while a high fat diet that comprises mostly animal fat sources (such as dairy products, fatty meats and takeaway foods) may increase the risk. Lycopene - a potent antioxidant found in tomatoes, tomato-based products, watermelon and strawberries - may help lower the risk.Bowel cancer - this is the fourth most common cancer in the world. Up to 70 per cent of cases can be prevented by following a healthy lifestyle. Physical activity and a diet high in vegetables and fiber are protective, while a high red meat intake (especially processed meat) and alcohol may increase the risk.What are the general guidelines for an anti-cancer diet?Over the last twenty-five years, cancer research has produced dietary guidelines that have become conventional wisdom when it comes to cancer prevention. Among the most common of these guidelines are:reduce unhealthy dietary fat. Since fat cells split apart easily, they contribute to a high population of free radicals, the molecular fragments which tear at the cell’s membrane, and in some cases, damage the cell’s dna structure. When the dna structure is interfered with, mutation can occur, which leads to the formation and growth of cancerous cells. It is recommended that you limit fat to 30 percent or less of your caloric intake. However, according to the harvard school of public health, studies have shown that what is most important is not the amount of fat in the diet, per se, but the type of fat. Thus, the latest advice is to cut out the unhealthy fats – saturated fats and trans fats.
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See how does reducing unhealthy fat in my diet lower my risk of cancer? For ideas on how to reduce unhealthy fat in your diet.Remove known carcinogens from your diet. Many studies have confirmed the presence of cancer-causing substances, or carcinogens, in particular foods and in methods of cooking food. See what are some tips for avoiding carcinogens and reducing my risk of cancer? For learning to avoid carcinogens.Cut down on meat. Limit consumption of meats, especially high-fat meats, to 3–5 ounces a day or less. As mentioned above, prepare meat by baking, broiling, or poaching, rather than by frying or charbroiling. Choose white meat such as chicken or turkey instead of red meat, which in some studies has been correlated with colorectal cancer. The non-profit cancer project states that vegetarians are the most well off in terms of cancer immunity. According to their website, vegetarians have about half the cancer risk of meat-eaters. But what if you eat meat, and don’t want to bother with measuring ounces? The american institute of cancer research promotes the ‘new american plate,’ a simple way to determine a healthy amount of meat at meals based on proportions. They suggest aiming for 2/3 (or more) fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans, and 1/3 (or less) animal protein on your plate.Eat food with ample nutrients shown to prevent cancer. The damaging effects of free-radicals are minimized by nutrients known as anti-oxidants. These include vitamins a, c, and e, calcium and vitamin d, the b vitamins and folic acid, the minerals selenium and zinc, the essential fatty acids, and beta carotene. Anti-oxidant rich foods, primarily fruits and vegetables, should be eaten in abundance (see what foods should i eat?).Limit or eliminate consumption of alcoholic beverages. Many studies suggest a higher risk of cancer of the liver, breast, rectum, mouth, esophagus, pharynx, larynx, digestive tract, bladder, and lungs among those who drink. It also appears that the combination of alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking has a synergistic effect: together they are more likely to cause cancer than either of them separately.Exercise care in food preparation and storage. Refrigerate or freeze leftover or unused foods, or consume them promptly. The food inspection and safety service of the usda says that perishable food should not be left out unrefrigerated for longer than two hours in temperatures between 40 and 90 degrees f, or for 1 hour in temperatures 90 degrees or above.Restrict sodium intake. Keep your sodium consumption to 6 grams or less per day—food and table salt combined.Take vitamin and mineral supplements when necessary. Considering the often challenging balancing act of getting proper nutrition through diet and maintaining an active, demanding lifestyle, supplementation for key nutrients is often advised. In people with already compromised immune systems, the extra nutritional support from supplements may be crucial. Consult your doctor to assess your need for a supplement program.How does reducing unhealthy fat in my diet lower my risk of cancer?The two most damaging fats are saturated fats and trans fats. The primary source of saturated fat is animal products, such as meat, seafood, whole-fat milk and milk products, and eggs. A twenty-year study called the nurses study, conducted by harvard university, showed saturated fats were correlated with a higher incidence of endometrial cancer. Trans fats, otherwise known as hydrogenated oils, come from heating vegetable oils, and are found mainly in commercially prepared baked goods, fried foods, margarines, snack foods, and processed foods. They have been implicated in increased risk for non-hodgkin's lymphoma.The harvard school of public health offers the following tips for lowering trans fat intake:check the ingredient list on food labels before buying. When foods containing hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils can't be avoided, choose products that list the hydrogenated oils near the end of theingredient list.Choose liquid vegetable oils or a soft tub margarine that contains little or no trans fats.Reduce intake of commercially prepared baked goods, snack foods, and processed foods, including fast foods. To be on the safe side, assume that all such products contain trans fats unless they are labeled otherwise.What are some tips for avoiding carcinogens and reducing my risk of cancer?Carcinogens are cancer causing substances found in food. Take the following precautions when making your food choices:avoid foods that look or smell moldy, as they likely contain aflatoxin, a potent liver carcinogen. Aflatoxin is most commonly found on peanuts.Do not cook oils on high heat. Low-heat cooking or baking (less than 240 degrees) prevents oils or fats from turning carcinogenic. When possible, replace heating and frying with boiling or steaming.Beware of cured, dried, and preserved meats. Nitrates and nitrites are compounds used to cure meat, and are metabolized into a substances called nitrosamine during the curing process. Nitrosamines are found in cooked bacon and sausage, cured pork, and dried beef. They are known to be a potent carcinogen. Nitrosamines are also formed during the drying process when beer is manufactured. The highest levels are found in dark beers.Go easy on the barbecue. Burning or charring meats creates substances called heterocyclic amines (hcas), which are released when high heat is applied to a compound called creatine, found in animal blood and tissue. Hcas are most often associated with cancers of the gastrointestinal tract, though some laboratory studies have suggested a connection to lung and breast tumors. One study of more than 40,000 women found that those who consistently ate well-done meat were nearly five times more likely to develop breast cancer than those who ate their meat rare or medium-cooked. One way to reduce hcas before barbecuing is to pre-heat the meat in the microwave, which dries up some of the juices and the creatine. This does not, however, eliminate the hcas altogether.Steer clear of smoked foods. Carcinogenic substances called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (pahs) form on the surface of food during the smoking process.Buy organic if possible. Additives and pesticides found in commercially grown produce and processed foods are also suspected carcinogens. It is best to buy organic fruits and vegetables whenever possible. The physicians’ desk reference (pdr) website offers a few simple steps you can take to protect yourself from food contaminants:use waxed paper rather than plastic wrap when microwaving.Wash or peel all fruits and vegetables. Use a vegetable brush for washing. Washing does not eliminate all pesticide residue, but it will reduce it.Buy local produce whenever possible. It is less likely to have been treated with chemicals to prevent spoilage than fruits and vegetables that travel a long distance to the market.What food guidelines are the most important to my cancer prevention diet?Taking the above points into consideration, a healthy diet for cancer prevention emphasizes the following foods:eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day (more are recommended: see what is the ‘5 a day’ program and how can it help prevent cancer?). A recent report sponsored by the world cancer research fund and the american institute for cancer study estimated that eating 400 or more grams daily of fruits and vegetables could prevent at least 20 percent or more of all cancers. In addition, those who eat the highest amount of fruits and vegetables have been shown to have one half the cancer risk as those eating the least amounts. Plant-derived foods contain phytochemicals, nutrients that act powerfully to prevent a healthy cell from turning cancerous. Phytochemicals have been studied for their role in boosting detoxification of the cells and stimulating the immune system, as well as their anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties—all hugely helpful in maintaining a healthful inner environment that reduces the likelihood of cancer from forming. Fruits and vegetables are high in vitamin a and beta carotene, the b vitamins, vitamin c, and essential minerals.Choose foods from other plant sources, such as breads, cereals, grain products, rice, or beans several times each day. Limit consumption of refined carbohydrates, including pastries, sweetened cereals, soft drinks, and sugars. Choose whole foods that are rich in complex carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals over minimally-processed or highly-processed foods.Eat plenty of fiber. Fiber moves cancer-causing compounds out of the body before they can create harm. It is also thought to dilute potential carcinogens, and may effect hormone production, thus lowering the incidence of hormone-related cancers like breast and prostate cancers. The national cancer institute recommends 20-30 grams of fiber per day. Foods rich in fiber are:whole grains such as barley and oats, oat bran, and nutsapples, bananas, blackberries, citrus fruits, pears, and pruneslima , kidney, pinto, and navy beans, chick peas, black-eyed peas, and especially lentilsbrussel sprouts, carrots, tomatoes, potatoes, and broccoli to help you increase the fiber in the diet, the cancer research and prevention foundation suggests that you substitute:brown rice for white whole wheat bread or rye for white black beans for ground meatbran muffin for croissant or pastry popcorn for potato chips unpeeled apple for applesauce baked potato with skin for mashed potato bean dip or salsa for sour cream dippartake of healthy fats. Healthy fats are good for you, in moderation. Olive oil, for instance, has been shown to reduce the risk of breast cancer. The human body needs fat for normal cellular functioning. So when you eat fat, replace saturated fats with unsaturated fats. These include sunflower, corn, and soybean oils (polyunsaturated fats) and canola and olive oils (monounsaturated fats). Two of the most beneficial fats are omega-6 and omega-3 oils, known as essential fatty acids (efas). The body cannot manufacture these fats, so they must be provided through the diet. Omega-6 fat is found in abundance in vegetable oils, margarines, mayonnaise, and salad dressings; omega-3 fat in fish, fish oil, and green plant food sources, especially spinach and mustard greens. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil have been shown to have an anti-carcinogenic effect in the laboratory.Strengthen your immune system. The wellness community website put together some eating suggestions for maximum immunity. The following chart lists some of the most potent nutrients in the fight against cancer, along with their food sources:most potent nutrients in the fight against cancernutrient/food sourcevitamin a/fish liver oils, liverbeta carotene (provitamin a)/orange, yellow and dark green leafy vegetables including carrots, cantaloupe, apricots, spinachvitamin b2 (riboflavin)/whole and enriched cereals and breads. Lean meat, milk, eggs, liver, dried yeastvitamin b6 (pyridoxine)/bananasfolic acid/leafy green vegetables, meatspantothenic acid/brewer's yeast, legumes, salmon, whole grainsvitamin c/citrus; fruits, berries, broccoli, bell peppersvitamin e/leafy green vegetables, egg yolk, liver, wheat germselenium/garlic, legumes, fish, asparagusiron/liver, peas, egg yolk, asparaguszinc/liver, oysters, soybeans, sunflower seedsmagnesium/green leafy vegetables, nuts, seafoodmanganese/bananas, bran, pineapple, nutsprotein/lean meat, poultry, fish, shellfish, eggs, legumes, broccoli, sunflower seedsantioxidants/citrus fruits, legumes, whole grainsphytonutrients/all plant sources of food, especially dark and brightly colored fruits and vegetables.What is the ‘5 a day’ program and how can it help prevent cancer?In 1991, the national cancer institute (nci) and the produce for better health foundation launched a campaign to increase consumption of fruits and vegetables to 5 to 9 servings a day for every american. “there is no specific fruit or vegetable responsible for reducing cancer risk,” says the 5 a day for better health program website. “research shows that it is the regular consumption of a variety of fruits and vegetables that reduces risk.” Five servings is considered the minimum. For men, the recommendation is nine servings per day; for women, it is seven.To help people gauge their intake, the 5 a day website defines a serving size as the amount of fruit or vegetable that can fit in the palm of your hand. The following portions are examples of single serving sizes:a small (3/4 cup or 6 oz) glass of 100% fruit or vegetable juicea medium-size piece of fruit (an orange, small banana, medium-size apple)one cup of raw salad greens1/2 cup of cooked vegetables1/2 cup of cut-up fruit or vegetables1/4 cup of dried fruit1/2 cup of cooked beans or peasalthough the portions sizes are simple to understand, fitting them into a busy lifestyle is another matter. The cancer research and prevention foundation and the 5 a day program offer the following tips for meeting 7–9 fruit and vegetable servings per day:have a glass of 100% juice in the morning. Add fruit to your breakfast cereal.Snack on fresh fruit throughout the day. Grab an apple or banana on your way out the door.Eat a big salad at lunch. Always order lettuce and tomato on your sandwich.Snack on raw veggies with low-fat dip instead of chips or candy.Keep trail mix made with dried fruit on hand for a quick snack.Use the salad bar at your supermarket for precut fruits and vegetables.Enjoy your favorite beans and peas. Add them to salads. Try black bean and corn salsa for snacking.Replace creamy pasta sauces, with sautéed vegetables or tomato sauce made with healthy olive oil.Top a baked potato with broccoli and yogurt.Add fresh or frozen veggies to your favorite pasta sauce or rice dish.Eat at least two vegetables with dinner.Choose fruit instead of a richer dessert.African americans are at a higher risk for cancer and other diseases as compared to whites, and are also more likely to die from cancer. At the same time, african americans consume the least amount of fruits and vegetables of any ethnic group. To help address the disparity in consumption rates, the 5 a day initiative developed a wellness program for african american churches called body and soul. For the past ten years, this program has helped support healthy living, including increased fruit and vegetable consumption. Visit the 5 a day website for more information or to start a body and soul program at your own church.A final word about variety. Pay attention to the colors of the fruits and vegetables you choose—green, red, yellow, orange, purple, blue, and white—as nature has imbued each with unique nutrients and phytochemicals that deliver a more complete nutritional benefit when consumed together. Think of assembling a rainbow of colors on your plate; it’s more pleasing to the eye and will give you a good balance of phytonutrients at each meal.What specific foods have the most powerful preventative effect for cancer?Certain foods have come to the forefront in the past few decades of cancer research as heavyweights in the battle against cancer. The national institute for cancer research presents an all-star line up of foods known for their effective cancer-fighting properties:beans (or legumes), which include lentils and peas, are rich in fiber and contain several chemicals that boost immunity to cancer. Saponins have shown the ability to inhibit the growth of cancer cells in different tissues; protease inhibitors slow down cancer cells from multiplying and suppress proteases, potent cell destroyers; and phytic acid slows the growth of tumors. A study of 3,237 men of different ethnic backgrounds showed that the risk for prostate cancer was 38 percent lower in those who ate the most amount of beans, as compared to those who ate the least amount.Berries are good sources of vitamin c and fiber, as well as a wonderful substance called ellagic acid, which has been found in laboratory studies to prevent cancers of the skin, bladder, lung, esophagus and breast. Strawberries and raspberries are particularly high in ellagic acid, and blueberries are loaded with a class of anti-oxidants as powerful as any seen. So splurge on berries in your morning cereal.Cruciferous vegetables include broccoli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, cabbage, kale, swiss chard, and bok choy. Substances in these vegetables have shown the ability to stop the growth of cancer cells in laboratory studies, particularly by regulating a complex system of enzymes that provide a good line of cancer defense. High consumption of cruciferous vegetables has been associated with a decreased risk for lung, stomach and colorectal cancers.Dark green leafy vegetables like spinach, romaine lettuce, leaf lettuces, kale, mustard greens, collard greens, and swiss chard all contain high amounts of fiber, folate and a wide range of anti-oxidants which attack and remove hazardous free radicals from the body. Researchers have found that carotenoids in dark green leafy vegetables are effective in inhibiting the formation of breast and skin cancer tumors, and preventing lung and stomach cancer. High folate levels in men who ate diets rich in green leafy vegetables have been correlated with a reduced risk of lung cancer, particularly among men who smoke. Results from the iowa women’s health study showed a 44%lower risk rate for breast cancer in women who ate the most green leafy vegetables, as compared to those who ate the least.Flaxseed is the best known dietary source for a substance called lignans, which appear to replicate the action of estrogen in the body. Flax oil does not contain lignans, though they are often added by the manufacturers. In some short-term human studies, flaxseed consumption modified estrogen metabolism such that there appeared to be a possible protective effect against breast cancer. It has also been shown to inhibit the formation of colon, breast, skin and lung tumors in more than one laboratory study. Flaxseed is also high in omega-3 fats essential fatty acids.Garlic is a natural antibiotic and immune system enhancer, a free radical attacker, and it increases the enzymes that break down carcinogens in the body. Ample research has shown garlic to be one of the best foods to eat for cancer prevention, linking its consumption with slowing or stopping the growth of tumors in prostate, bladder, and stomach tissue, and preventing cancers of the skin and lung. The evidence is particularly compelling for garlic as a preventative agent against prostate and stomach cancers. The iowa women’s health study found that women who regularly ate garlic had a lower risk for colon cancer. Eat as much of this mighty food as you can stand!Grapes, especially red and purple varieties, contain high levels of resveratrol, which belongs to a classification of plant chemicals called polyphenols. Resveratrol has been shown to slow the growth of cancer cells and inhibit the formation of tumors in lymph, liver, stomach and breast cells.Green tea is the best source of catechins in the human diet, containing about three times as many catechins as there are in black tea. The catechins found in tea selectively inhibit specific enzyme activities that lead to cancer and may also repair cellular damage caused by free radicals. Green tea has been shown to inhibit or block cancer development in colon, liver, breast, and prostate cells. Studies done in asia show that frequent use of green tea lowers the risk for bladder, colon, stomach, pancreatic, and esophageal cancers. It has also been shown to aid in preventing recurrence of stage 1 breast cancer.Soy foods, which include tofu, soymilk, soybeans, soynuts, miso (soy paste), tempeh, and soy burgers, are particularly relevant in their effects on hormone-related cancer. Soy contains phytoestrogens, a plant-derived, weaker form of estrogen that some scientists believe replaces the body’s stronger form of estrogen at estrogen receptor sites in the breast, thereby reducing the probability of developing cancer. Several human and laboratory studies have suggested that soy consumption early in life may help protect against breast cancer later in life. However, according to breastcancer.org, many doctors worry that phytoestrogens in soy may increase the risk of women who have already had breast cancer. In another human study, men who said they drank soymilk more than once per day for 20 years were found to have 70% lower prostate cancer risk than men who never drank soymilk.Tomatoes contain the phytochemical lycopene, which is also found to a lesser extent in watermelon, papaya, and pink grapefruit. More than 35 studies have confirmed a lower risk of cancer as a result of high lycopene and tomato intake, especially cancers of the prostate, stomach, and lung. Lycopene compounds tend to concentrate in tissues of the prostate, so its protective agency there has received the most attention. Tomatoes have the highest anti-cancer potential when taken in a processed form such as tomato sauce, tomato paste, and tomato juice, because of easier absorption. The pdr website reported a study that found that people with the lowest levels of lycopene are three times more likely to get lung cancer than those with the highest levels. African americans in the same study were found to have eight times the risk of developing cancer when lycopene levels were lowest.Turmeric is the spice most often used in curry powder. It has an active ingredient called curcumin that has shown resistance to colon, breast,liver, oral, skin, and stomach tumors in laboratory testing on animals.Yogurt consumed in high quantities has been linked in some population studies to reduced risks of cancer, particularly of the breast and colon.Mesothelioma in the united statesduring the industrialization associated with the early 20th century in the united states, asbestos was viewed as a "wonder" product, having the capability to save lives due to its fire retardant and durability characteristics. Between 1940 and 1979 an estimated 27 million workers in the united states were exposed to asbestos fibers. Since the early 1900s industrialization of the united states brought about the mining, processing and use of more than 30 million tons of asbestos. The most prevalent use of asbestos has been in the construction industry. In 1988, 6,300,000 workers in the united states were employed in the construction trades. Two-thirds of asbestos produced in the united states is used in this construction. Carpenters, utility workers, electricians, pipe fitters, steel mill workers, sheet metal workers, boiler makers, and laborers are at risk for exposure of asbestos through construction materials; insulation coverings of pipes, boilers, industrial furnaces, and other sources. Automobile mechanics working with brake and transmission products also are exposed to asbestos. Add to this the exposure from renovating and demolition and the risk to these workers from exposure to asbestos becomes considerable. Additionally, the families of these workers were also affected through secondary exposure.Secondary exposure occurs when asbestos fibers are released into the air and are inhaled by persons not directly working with asbestos. This secondary exposure can be as extensive and as harmful as direct exposure to asbestos workers themselves. An asbestosis prevalence of 11% in wives, 8% in sons, and 2% in daughters was reported in families of asbestos-exposed shipyard workers. Mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases have developed in members of workers' families whose only contact with asbestos was dust from an exposed worker's clothing. Mesothelioma and other asbestos related diseases also have developed in persons who as children lived within one-half mile of an asbestos factory. In the workplace persons not directly working with asbestos or asbestos products also have had secondary exposure to asbestos. An example is the four to 5 million shipyard workers who were exposed when insulation workers applied asbestos to ships' pipes and hulls. People in contact with work clothes of asbestos workers or with asbestos containing household products have developed pleural abnormalities. Low exposures from work-related, household, and natural sources can induce pleural plaques. For diffuse, pleural thickening, higher exposure levels might be required.Mesothelioma is one of the deadliest cancerous diseases known to man; the average life span of an inflicted person from the time of diagnosis until death is less than 24 months. It’s a disease that strikes approximately 3,000 united states citizens each and every year; hard working people who have labored for a lifetime to provide for their families, doing the work that keeps this country running and a great place to live. They worked in factories, at shipyards, in mines, for the us military, as engineers, as pipefitters, as steel workers, as auto mechanics, and in so many other professions. They came home to their loved ones exhausted and covered in dirt and dust; tired, but content that they had a job and were providing for their family. Content that they were putting food on the table and a house over their loved one’s heads. Content that they were working to make a better life for their families in this generation and the next...But what they didn’t know was that while they were working so hard, they were not only slowly killing themselves, but those that they were working so hard to help; their family, their loved ones.Mesothelioma is a disease that is almost 100% preventable; the only known cause is via exposure to the deadly mineral asbestos. It comes from inhaling the particles of dust as the asbestos degrades; eating away at the lining of your lungs and developing into a deadly cancer. Dust that was inhaled in clouds of white powder, dust that was carried home on the clothes of the men who built this country, dust that was cleaned from the clothes by the wives and children who supported their sole provider at home, dust that was packed around the heating systems in houses and offices and schools, dust that carried a deadly price; and dust made a fortune in blood money for the companies that produced it.Unfortunately, the effects of asbestos on the human body were known to be deadly for years by the companies who employed the ‘greatest generation’ and made hundreds of millions, if not billions, of dollars off of their backs. But instead of taking simple steps to alleviate the problem and save the lives of thousands of their workers, they choose to do nothing and continue to make a “healthy” profit with a “deadly” product. Many even went so far as to hide the truth from their workers and their families. And because the normal latency period for mesothelioma (the time from exposure until the patient falls ill) is 20 to 30 years, many got away with this for years. We are only now beginning to see the full effects of the disease, and feel the terrible outcry of the people against those who put profits before human lives to a degree that is simply unfathomable.canceroscope.blogspot.com is a site created to provide you with up to date information on the deadly disease mesothelioma. We strive to provide the most complete overview of the disease and all aspects of it. This includes general information on the disease, breaking news on the search for a cure and perspective legislation designed to limit you as well as all other news on the subject, links to other sites and online resources that can provide important and in-depth mesothelioma and cancer related information, and a legal guide to help you with the complex legal issues involved with mesothelioma.Take a moment to browse through the various sections of mesolink.org by clicking on any of the links to your right, left, or below.Asbestos is responsible for a number of side effects, which can cause anything from discomfort to death. Asbestosis and pleural plaques can result from exposure to asbestos, and more notably so can mesothelioma, a deadly cancer that can take many decades to develop but only a matter of months from the onset of symptoms to kill...Mesothelioma is caused by ingesting or breathing in loose asbestos fibres, which can then cause scarring and ultimately can lead to this cancer. The cancer can affect the lung, chest, or abdominal cavities, but it also has a very long latency period, which means that it could be thirty years or more before the person even realizes that they have contracted the cancer because this is how long it can take to manifest. The onset of symptoms can take up to fifty years or more in some cases, but once the symptoms have manifested the lifespan of the person can be as short as several months.Current treatmentonce mesothelioma has been diagnosed a treatment procedure can be recommended and begun. The correct treatment will depend on a number of factors. They include the location of the tumor, the stage of the disease and how far the cancer has spread in the patient. The recommended treatment for mesothelioma will also depend on the age and overall health of the patient...How mesothelioma is currently treatedmesothelioma treatment depends on several factors, including the stage of mesothelioma, the location of the tumor, and the age and overall health of the patient.1. Surgery - removal of malignant mesotheliomasurgical removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue may be used depending on how far the mesothelioma has spread (the stage). The more advanced the stage, the less likely that surgery will be effective in treating mesothelioma.Surgery for malignant mesothelioma can be used for long-term control or to cure the disease (aggressive surgery) or can be used to relieve pain (palliative). A) aggressive surgery aggressive mesothelioma surgery involves removal of the pleura, lung, diaphragm, or pericardim. (the type involving removal of the pleura is called extrapleural pheumonectomy.) The goal is to remove as much of the mesothelioma tumor as possible. This type of surgery, also called extraplueral pneumonectomy, typically is performed on younger patients in stage 1 of mesothelioma.Because of the complexity and the high risks involved with this type of surgery, some mesothelioma hospitals do not perform the procedure. Also, different mesothelioma treatment centers may have different criteria for accepting patients for surgery. Therefore, it is important to check with a mesothelioma hospital to see if you meet its criteria.B) palliative surgerypalliative surgery is typically used in the more advanced stages of mesothelioma. The goal is to relieve or control symptoms caused by fluid collection or by the tumor compressing the lung or other organs. It is not intended to cure mesothelioma.Pleurectomy/decortization is usually a palliative operation. It is used in situations where the entire tumor cannot be removed. It is effective in controlling the accumulation of fluid in the lungs (effusion), and the pain caused by mesothelioma.Thoracentesis is also used to treat effusion in pleural mesothelioma. This treatment involves inserting a needle into the chest in order to drain the fluid. Thoracentesis does not involve surgical removal of the mesothelial cells.2. Radiationradiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays to kill mesothelioma cancer cells and to shrink tumors. There are two types of radiation therapy.External radiation therapy uses a machine outside the body that beams x-rays to the location of the mesothelioma.Brachytherapy involves putting chemicals that produce radiation directly into the site of the mesothelioma cancer. This is done by inserting a thin plastic tube into the chest or abdomen.Because of the location of malignant mesothelioma, it is very difficult to deliver high-enough doses of radiation to kill the tumor without damaging surrounding organs. As a result, it is unclear whether radiation therapy is a successful method of treating mesothelioma. It has, however, been effective in killing remaining tumor cells after surgery has been performed.Radiation therapy is also used as a palliative therapy to relieve symptoms of mesothelioma, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and internal bleeding.Radiation therapy has several side effects, such as fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. Although these side effects are sometimes temporary, you should let your doctor know, since they often can be controlled. 3. Chemotherapychemotherapy uses drugs to treat mesothelioma cancer. It is administered either orally (through pills) or by injecting the drugs directly into the veins (intravenously), the muscles, the chest cavity (intrapleurally), or the abdominal cavity (intraperitoneally). The goal of mesothelioma chemotherapy is for the drug to enter the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body in order to destroy the cancer cells.Several drugs have been used, either individually or in combination with others, to treat mesothelioma. Some of the single-agent drugs include:adriamycin (doxorubicin), which is the most studied and, currently, the most effective single agent;epirubicincarboplatindetorubicinpirarubucinmitomucincisplatin.Single-agent therapy has been only modestly successful in treating mesothelioma, with studies showing a response rate in the 10 to 20% range.Because of the relatively low response rate of single-agent therapy in treating mesothelioma, combinations of these drugs have been used to increase their effectiveness. Although some researchers have reported high response rates to these therapies, these rates have not been consistent, and more research is necessary.Chemotherapy drugs are generally very toxic. Therefore, a doctor must be very careful in monitoring the condition of a patient during therapy. Some of the more common side effects include nausea, vomiting, loss or appetite, hair loss, and fatigue. Chemotherapy can also result in low blood cell counts, which increases the risk of infection and bleeding or bruising.Side effects vary depending on the treatment, and generally disappear after treatment is completed.Causes and risk factorsthe fine fibers of asbestos make it a great source for insulation and a fire retardant however the entry of asbestos into the human body can trigger the onset of mesothelioma. It is widely known now that mesothelioma is almost always caused by exposure to asbestos. Sometimes the fibers enter the body through the lungs by an unsuspecting individual just breathing air containing asbestos fibers. Once they are taken in through the respiratory passages these fibers lodge themselves in the mesothelial cells around the lungs. This can cause direct damage to the lungs by traveling to the ends of their small passages and reaching the pleura area surrounding the lungs.What is asbestos and how does it relate to mesothelioma?asbestos is the only known cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos is a combination of several minerals held together by silky strands of fibers. These fireproof fibers do not burn, and do not conduct heat or electricity. Because asbestos does not conduct heat well and is resistant to melting or burning, asbestos was used widely in all types of construction products up to the mid-1970s. Other products made with asbestos, such as insulation materials and automotive clutches and brakes, were designed principally to contain heat and sound.Mesothelioma chrysotilechrysotile asbestos is the main cause of malignant pleural mesothelioma. The three most common forms of asbestos are chrysotile, amosite, and crocidolite. Chrysotile or white asbestos accounts for approximately 95% of the asbestos used in us production of asbestos products and is the only member of the serpentine group of minerals. The fine fibers of asbestos made it a great source for insulation and as a fire retardant but they their entry into the human body can trigger the onset of mesothelioma. Sometimes the asbestos fibers enter the body through the air and are breathed into the lung area of the body. Once they are taken in through the respiratory passages these fibers lodge themselves in the mesothelial cells around the lungs. This can cause direct damage to the lungs by traveling to the ends of small passages and reach the pleura area around the lungs.once lodged in the plural area these fibers can injure lung cells and cause lung cancer or asbestosis which is a term used to describe replacing healthy lung tissue with damaged or scar tissue. In addition, asbestos fibers can also be directly swallowed by people working in close of confined spaces with exposed asbestos. These fibers can go directly to the stomach and abdominal cavity and may lead to the development of stomach cancer or peritoneal mesothelioma.the most common way to get is through directly working with asbestos as part of a job or career. Many people get mesothelioma as a result of their jobs working in mining, construction, shipbuilding and any other job that required a regular exposure to asbestos fibers. It is possible as well to get mesothelioma from being exposed to asbestos fibers in your home of office. Many houses still contain asbestos lined insulation that can be a grave danger if it becomes opened or exposed to humans. As long as the asbestos remains in a sealed unit or wrapped around a pipe with its exterior sealant intact, there is little danger. But if any of these materials break out of their sealed units they could easily contaminate any one who comes into contact with them.finally it is also possible to develop mesothelioma through direct physical contact with the clothes of someone else that has come directly into contact with asbestos. There are numerous cases of wives and spouses of miners and construction workers who have developed mesothelioma from breathing in the fibers that their husbands or wives brought home with them from the plant, mine or construction site. If that person worked in the insulation industry at a time when asbestos use was at its peak they have a much higher chance of developing this deadly disease than others who may have had minimal exposure to asbestos fibers as a result of their daily working activities.today mesothelioma is one of the most commonly recognized industrial or workplace diseases and special programs have been developed to recognize mesothelioma symptoms and to provide support to those who suffer from this disease.helpful resources to help you learn more about asbestos:see pictures of asbestos search for asbestos related articlessearch the latest mesothelioma news for asbestossearch all government resources for asbestos related information on mesothelioma medicalnational cancer institute for more asbestos exposure factscenters for disease control and prevention website for more asbestos informationoccupational safety & health administration government website for more asbestos informationenviromental protection agency government website for more asbestos informationarticle / case studies on chrysotile asbestos being the main cause of malignant mesothelioma.over thirty-three mesothelioma clinical trials.Symptomssince mesothelioma takes a long time to develop inside a human body it is often difficult to identify the symptoms. In the early stages there may not even be any symptoms at all. When they do appear the most common early mesothelioma symptoms are shortness of breath and chest pains. These symptoms on their own will not usually identify the disease and are often misdiagnosed as asthma or other respiratory problems like pneumoniamesothelioma symptomsit often is difficult to diagnose malignant mesothelioma. Because it is an uncommon form of cancer, many doctors, particularly those who are not cancer specialists, are not familiar with mesothelioma.Many of the symptoms of mesothelioma are not very different from those associated with other health problems. Also, in its early stages some patients experience no symptoms at all.A. Pleural mesothelioma symptomssome of the symptoms of pleural mesothelioma (mesothelioma cancer of the lung lining) include:pain in the lower back or the side of the chestshortness of breatha persistent coughdifficulty swallowing foodfever and sweatingfatigueweight loss.These symptoms are also common to many minor ailments and, therefore, may not cause a doctor to suspect mesothelioma.pleural effusion-fluid in the lungsone of the most common and specific symptoms of pleural mesothelioma is the accumulation of fluid between the lungs and chest cavity. This generally causes shortness of breath, and requires a doctor to drain the fluid, called fine-needle aspiration, to make breathing easier and relieve chest pain. This symptom is more unique to mesothelioma, making it more likely that you may have the disease.B. Peritoneal mesothelioma symptomssymptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma (abdominal mesothelioma - mesothelioma of the lining of the stomach) include:stomach painnausea and vomitingweight loss.Like pleural mesothelioma, these symptoms are also common to many minor ailments and, therefore, may not cause a doctor to suspect mesothelioma.Tests and diagnosisas discussed previously, mesothelioma takes a long time to incubate within a human body before symptoms may appear and cause suffering to the carrier. To be more specific, it can take fifteen to twenty years for this deadly disease to fully show itself and the damage it has done. This presents a very difficult challenge for doctors and the medical community in diagnosing mesothelioma and in many cases patients with this disease are either not aware that they have it or do not ask the doctor to specifically check for symptoms.Diagnosing mesothelioma1. Physical examinationas with all diseases, a doctor begins the mesothelioma diagnosis by doing a complete physical exam and reviewing your medical history. Because mesothelioma is almost always caused by breathing in asbestos exposure (see causes of mesothelioma), you should tell your doctor about your exposure to asbestos if you suspect you may have mesothelioma.After performing the physical exam, a doctor should have x-rays of the chest performed and, in some cases, pulmonary function tests to determine if the symptoms are consistent with malignant mesothelioma.2. Ct scans and mri'sin many cases, a doctor may order ct scans and/or mri's to aid in the mesothelioma diagnosis. These tools allow a doctor to assess the size, location, and extent of the mesothelioma tumor in the chest or abdomen.3. Biopsy to diagnose mesotheliomaall of the steps described above are only preliminary indications of mesothelioma. If, after performing these tests, a doctor suspects mesothelioma, a biopsy should be taken to confirm the mesothelioma diagnoses.A biopsy is the procedure used for obtaining a tissue sample of the tumor. The two most common methods for removing tissue samples are a thorascoscopy and a broncoscopy.a thoracoscopy is obtained by inserting a telescope-like instrument connected to a video camera (thoracoscope) through a small incision in the chest. The doctor then removes the tumor using special forceps with the aid of the camera. This procedure is used for diagnosing both pleural mesothelioma and pericardial mesothelioma.a bronchoscopy involves inserting a flexible lighted tube through the mouth into the bronchi to remove tissue in the airway. This procedure is used for diagnosing pleural mesothelioma.Although a biopsy is the most effective procedure for diagnosing mesothelioma, malignant mesothelioma cells can look like other types of cancer. Therefore,special laboratory testsare sometimes performed or electron microscopes are used to confirm a diagnosis of mesothelioma.Colon and rectum cancer:overview: colon and rectum cancerwhat is colorectal cancer?Colorectal cancer is a term used to refer to cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. Colon and rectal cancers begin in the digestive system, also called the gi (gastrointestinal) system. This is where food is processed to create energy and rid the body of waste matter.After food is chewed and swallowed, it travels down to the stomach. There it is partly broken down and sent to the small intestine. The word "small" refers to the diameter of the small intestine. The small intestine is really the longest segment of the digestive system. It is about 20 feet long.The small intestine continues breaking down the food and absorbs most of the nutrients. The small intestine joins the large intestine (large bowel), a muscular tube about five feet long. The first part of the large bowel, called the colon, absorbs water and nutrients from the food and also serves as a storage place for waste matter. The waste matter moves from the colon into the rectum, the final 6 inches of the large bowel. From there the waste passes out of the body through the opening called the anus during a bowel movement.The colon has 4 sections, as shown in the picture above. Cancer can start in any of the four sections or in the rectum. The wall of each of these sections (and rectum) has several layers of tissues. Cancer starts in the inner layer and can grow through some or all of the other layers. Knowing a little about these layers is helpful because the stage (extent of spread) of a cancer depends to a great degree on which of these layers it affects.Cancer that starts in the different areas may cause different symptoms. In most cases, colon and rectum cancers develop slowly over a period of several years. We now know that most of these cancers begin as a polyp – a growth of tissue into the center of the colon or rectum. A type of polyp known as adenomacan become cancerous. Removing the polyp early may prevent it from becoming cancer.Over 95% of colon and rectal cancers are adenocarcinomas. These are cancers of the cells that line the inside of the colon and rectum. There are some other, more rare, types of tumors of the colon and rectum, but the facts given here refer only to adenocarcinomas.Colon and rectal cancer have many features in common and are often referred to simply as “colorectal cancer.” They are discussed together here except for the section about treatment. At that point they will be discussed separately.
THE BEAUTIFUL WOMAN/THE HANDSOME MAN
10 Foods that Enhance Your Looks
As the saying goes, “You are what you eat”. So, what effect does your diet really have on your appearance? We know that eating sensibly helps to maintain a healthy appearance.When you feel good about the things you eat and when the things you eat are good for you, chances are you’ll look that way, too.Here are 10 foods that not only help you feel great, but help you look great, too.
WATER
Drinking plenty of water every day helps the skin look soft, supple and more youthful. By keeping the body hydrated skin texture, hair and nails. If you’re feeling bloated, it may be due to an increase in consumption of salt or high-sodium foods. Increase your intake of water to help flush it out. Also, water helps in the weight loss process by reducing water weight and replenishes water loss during workout activity.
VITAMIN C
Vitamin C helps the body fight infection and disease. It pumps up the immune system and promotes healing. Did you know that vitamin C is also essential to collagen production? Collagen helps the skin wrinkle and line free. Citrus fruits, strawberries, tomatoes, broccoli and cabbages are all vitamin-C-rich foods. Keep in mind that their juices are also packed with this important vitamin.
GREEN TEA
Also rich in antioxidants, green tea has also been shown to lower cholesterol, improve immune function and reduce the risk of specific types of cancer. If you’re a big coffee drinker, try replacing your morning cup o’joe with a cup of green tea. Without cream, sugar or other artificial flavorings, you may notice a metabolic boost and a reduction in weight while satisfying your caffeine your caffeine fix.
SOY Soy proteins are rich in amino acids, vitamin E and many antioxidants. These components help the skin stay smooth, retain moisture and elasticity.
ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS
Essential fatty acids (EFAs) like omega-3 and omega-6 are known as “good fat,” which helps cellular functioning. This helps skin , hair, nails, muscles and practically everything involved in your physical appearnce. Like other “good” foods, EFAs help the cells to function properly, which help in clearing up the skin, preventing blemishes, reducing wrinkles, and improving hair condition and nail growth.
MILK
The phrase “milk does a body good” isn’t only a catchy marketing phrase: it’s also a fact. Milk is rich in calcium, vitamins B2, B-12 and D. Calcium paired with the calcium-absorption booster vitamin D, helps to maintain strong bones, and healthy teeth. Vitamins B2 AND B-12 are essential for red blood cell growth, which helps to carry much needed oxygen to cells. What does this mean to your looks? Hair and skin will look livelier and healthier.
GREEN VEGETABLES
Vegetables such as spinach, pumpkin leaves, okra, are rich in Vitamin A, C, E, iron and fiber. We’ve already discussed the benefits of vitamin C, but equally important to looking great is your intake of vitamin A and E. Vitamin A has antioxidant properties and maintains moisture for eyes, skin and mucous membranes. Vitamin E is essential for healthy, smooth and younger looking skin.
YOGURT
Since yogurt is a dairy product, all the benefits of milk also hold true for yogurt. Yogurt contains friendly bacteria, which aids in digestion, improves the immune system and (when used as a mask) can help hydrate and cleanse the skin.
GARLIC
The effects of garlic have been widely known for centuries, but only recently taken seriously by modern science. In studies, potent food has been shown to reduce blood pressure, lower cholesterol and even prevent cancer. Although your partner may not want to kiss you after eating it, keep in mind that garlic is also high in antioxidants, which will help you stay looking young. If you can’t stand the pungent smell or taste, take it in capsule.
CHOCOLATE
Alright already! So chocolate isn’t the most health-conscious food on the planet. However, chocolate does have positive effects on your mood by pumping up your ‘feel-good’ hormones (endorphins and serotonin), which help to give you an overall calm and pleasant feeling. And when you feel good, you look good. Now isn’t that a good excuse to eat chocolate?
