Friday, December 28, 2007

Top Ten Healthy Lifestyle Tips From 2007

We have listed ten practical tips for nutrition and environmental awareness from 2007research. Now, we continue our countdown with ten tips gleened from 2007 studies on lifestyle and cancer risk.

10. Sleep in darkness.
This month, night shift work has been classified as a probable human carcinogen. Studies have found women who work night shifts have an elevated risk of breast cancer (and men, prostate cancer), whereas blind women have a low incidence. It is felt that melatonin, manufactured by the brain in total darkness, may lower the risk.

9. Brush your teeth and see your dentist.
Gum disease raised the risk of developing pancreatic cancer by a factor of three, in a study published this year.

8. Look for alternatives to hormone replacement therapy.
The drop in post-menopausal breast cancer (16%), that hit the headlines, is felt due to fewer women using hormone replacement therapy after menopause. Women who find menopausal symptoms overly uncomfortable, should seek out a health care provider who is passionate about menopause care, and can discuss risks and benefits of the multiple integrative options available.

7. Get Insured.
Those who lack health insurance for whatever reason, are more likely to die from cancer. Hopefully, with health care issues playing a significant role in the 2008 election, options for those who "fall between the cracks" will open.

6. Know your family history.
Studies continue to find genetic predispositions to several types of cancer. Recently, the risk for men in a family with a genetic risk for breast cancer has also been brought forth. In some cases, special screening may be indicated. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has a form titled "My Family Health Portrait" for creating a family history. You can also get one by calling 1-888-275-4772.

5. Practice safe sex.
Although we have known for some time that roughly 25 percent of oral cancers are attributed to the human papillomavirus (HPV), the issue has surfaced to general awareness along with the HPV vaccine. The most important step you can take is to practice safe sex, and consult a health care professional if you develop anything suspicious in your mouth.

4. Research before you travel.
Infection as the cause of roughly 25 percent of cancers worldwide is also old news that has recently gained the attention of the media. Before you travel, check out the Center for Disease Control's website . Bird flu is not the only concern in our wonderlust for exotic destinations.

3. Exercise.
For those who can't afford the pricey health club, or don't want to leave home, a study published this year could even save you money without stepping over your threshold. Women who exercised had a reduction in breast cancer, but the group with the greatest reduction in risk were those who engaged in "domestic exercise." Say with me "vacuuming, dusting, washing windows, folding clothes..."

2. Get screened.
2007 has been a year where HPV, and the vaccine, became a common household word. No matter your take on the HPV vaccine, Pap smears can detect abnormalities on the cervix before cancer appears - and save lives.

1. Be lean.
Studies this year have not only called to attention the tremendous impact of overweight and obesity on cancer, but seem to suggest that, even for those of normal weight, leaner is better. Think slim for a plus-size life!

For further information on cancer prevention, buy Avoiding Cancer One Day At A Time: Practical Advice for Preventing Cancer.

Thursday, December 27, 2007

Top Ten Environmental Health Tips From 2007

According to the National Cancer Institute, two-thirds of cancer are related to our environment. Yesterday, we listed our top ten nutrition tips based on 2007 studies. Today we share our tips from studies that evaluated environmental risk and cancer.

10. Raise your awareness about environmental chemicals.

The Silent Spring Institute, in conjuction with Harvard University, the University of Southern California, and Roswell Park Cancer Institute, reviewed all animals studies that suggest a link between chemicals in our environment and breast cancer. Over 60 of these are found in common household products! Links to the study, including a list of the chemicals found suspect are available. We also created a table listing some of the common items these chemicals are found in, and alternatives available.

9. Purchase a water filter.

The news this year has frightened many, as they discovered municipal wells in their communities are contaminated by carcinogens. The study above also lists chlorinated water as a breast cancer carcinogen in animals. Having a water filter eliminates the need to worry.

8. Find a wet-cleaner or liquid CO2 cleaner, and skip the drycleaner.

Perchloroethylene, used in chemical drycleaning establishment, is a carcinogen, and those who work in drycleaning establishments have an elevated risk of developing cancer. To find alternatives by zip code, check out our August 28, 2007 blog entry.

7. Don't mix infant formula with fluoridated water.

The American Dental Association has adviced against the use of fluoridated water in infant formula. Not only does fluoridated water in formula fail to protect babies teeth, but can actually damage them -- while at the same time increasing later risk for osteosarcoma, a rare bone cancer.

6. Limit cell phone use in children.

While the jury is still out on the safety of cell phone use in children, many European countries have recommended children minimize use until more is known. Isn't the skyrocketing childhood obesity rate in the USA reason enough to follow suit?

5. Avoid products containing phthalates.

Several phthalates, plasticizers found in a wide range of products, have been banned or restricted for use in childrens products in Europe. Recently, California followed the lead and placed a similar ban. Ideally, look for products which carry the label "Phthalate free."

4. Go organic and avoid home and garden pesticides.

A Canadian study recently demonstrated an elevated risk of developing non-Hodgkins lymphoma in those exposed to organochlorine pesticides. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma has been steadily increasing in frequency in the U.S.

3. Choose lipstick without lead.

A scan of the headlines recently - which listed lipsticks containing lead, left us wondering how we can know whether or not a product is safe. For starters, check out the Environmental Working Group. This website has product information on thousands of personal care products, and not only lists carcinogens, but gives them a grade of one to ten based on safety.

2. Weigh risks and benefits of any medical procedure using radiation.

Earlier this year, cancer risk to women undergoing coronary angiography surfaced. More recently, the use of CT scans in children was again brought to the table, and it is felt that as many as 2 percent of all cancers may be related to CT scans given now. These tests can save lives, but warrant a careful discussion of risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. Questions to consider asking are listed in our July 25, 2007 blog entry.

1. Let the sun shine in!

Studies this year have vitamin D on center stage basking in the spotlight. Vitamin D has be associated with significant reductions not only in breast cancer, but colon cancer and now lung cancer as well. The magic number appears to be in the realm of 1000 IU's per day, something quite difficult to obtain by diet alone. Ten to fifteen minutes in the sun (without sunscreen) on most days, can result in the absorption of this cancer preventing dose. Canada, with a latitude where absorption of vitamin D in the winter is quite low, and a climate discourages exposure to the sun, a daily supplement of vitamin D has been recommended.

***2007 also marks the year where a renowned epidemiologist on the "inside," has shared her knowledge explaining why we fail to hear about so many measures we could be taking to lower our risk of cancer. Our thanks to Dr. Devra Davis for "having the guts" to publish "The Secret History of the War on Cancer," and to the Center for Evironmental Oncology at the University of Pittsburgh.

For more practical tips on the environment and cancer prevention, buy Avoiding Cancer One Day At A Time.

Top Ten Nutrition Tips For 2007

2007 was filled with studies loaded with tips for health and wellness. Nutrition begins our top ten countdown for a healthier 2008.

10. Limit soft drinks to less than one per day.

Those who drink more than one soft drink per day have a 44 percent greater risk of developing metabolic syndrome than those who drink less than one per day. And, it does not matter if the soft drink is regular or diet.Metabolic syndrome substantially raises the risk not only of heart disease, but several other conditions as well. The definition requires three or more of the following:

- excess waist circumference
- high blood pressure
- elevated triglycerides
- low HDL (good) cholesterol
- high fasting blood sugar

9. Limit foods containing acrylamide.

Acrylamide is a human carcinogen that is found in starchy foods that are heated, especially items such as french fries and potato chips. The attorney general of California settled a suit with one fast-food company this year, requiring that acrylamide content of foods carry a warning. More recently, foods high in acrylamide were linked with an increased risk of developing endometrial and ovarian cancer. Acrylamide content of various foods can be found at www.oehha.ca.gov/prop65/acrylamideintakefdaappendix.pdf.

8. Add these cancer fighting foods to your diet

- Apples - Apples have been known for some time to lower the risk of lung cancer, but appear to aid in the fight to prevent breast cancer as well. They may even reduce asthma and allergies in children.

- Black raspberries - Black raspberries slow the growth of a pre-cancerous condition that can lead to esophageal cancer, the fastest growing cancer in the U.S.

- Raw cruciferous vegetables - Even three servings a month can lower your risk of bladder cancer.

- Lemon to Green tea - Adding lemon to green tea results in much better absorption of catechins, the cancer fighters in green tea.

- Broccoli and tomatoes in unison - The combination of broccoli and tomatoes together packs a bigger punch against prostate cancer than addition alone would suggest.

7. Try to get your vitamins from dietary sources.

A study published in Cancer Research, demonstrated that diets high in vitamin B6, B12, and folate, were associated with decreases in the risk of pancreatic cancer of 81,73, and 57 percent respectively. Unlike those who got these vitamins through their diet, those who got vitamins in the form of a multivitamin supplement actually had a small increase in risk.

6. Limit alcohol intake.

Despite the studies on heart health and moderate alcohol consumption, a new study this year reinforced cancer risks with the consumption not only of hard liquor, but beer and wine as well.

5. Look for foods high in vitamin D and calcium.

Vitamin D and calcium intake are associated with a lower risk of pre-menopausal breast cancer. Dairy products, independent of vitamin D and calcium, are linked with a lower risk of prostate cancer.

4. A low fat diet isn't just for those with high cholesterol.

Women who lowered their intake of dietary fat for a period of four years, were 40 percent less likely to develop ovarian cancer.

3. Limit red and processed meats.

Regular consumption of red meat and especially processed meats is associated with an increased likelihood of developing cancer.

2. Eat your vegetables!

Despite a disappointing study that did not show improved survival from breast cancer with a vegetable rich diet, veggies have not lost their starring role in cancer prevention. In a large study this year, it was found that Chinese women who exchanged their traditional "vegetable-soy" diet for a "meat-sweet" western diet, were 60 percent more likely to develop breast cancer.

1. Limit your dietary intake - period.

This year the American Institute for Research on Cancer reviewed the evidence to date regarding the role of diet in cancer. Previous evaluation of the studies supports their claim that 30 to 40 percent of cancers could be prevented by a healthy diet and exercise alone. What clearly stood out this year was the impact of excess weight and calories on cancer risk. Currently, 20 percent of cancer in men and 14 percent in men are directly related to obesity.

Coming next, "Top Ten Environmental Health Tips from 2007." For further information on cancer prevention and the role of diet and the environment, read Avoiding Cancer One Day At A Time: Practical Advice for Preventing Cancer.

Sunday, December 23, 2007

Ten Tips For A Happy Holiday - Part Three

Part Three - Food Safety. In part one we talked about safety on the road, and in part two safety at home. Now, as loved ones gather around wonderful meals, we offer a few tips on safe eating. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that there are 76 million cases of food poisoning in the U.S. each year resulting in 325,000 hospitalizations and 5,000 deaths. Follow a few safety practices to avoid being a part of these statistics!

5. Wash. First and foremost, wash your hands frequently. Improper hand washing is one of the major sources leading to food poisoning. Make sure to wash all fruits and vegetables prior to cooking, but do NOT wash meats. Rinsing meats in the sink can leave harmful bacteria behind to contaminate other foods.

6. Cook meat thoroughly. Undercooked turkey during the holidays can rapidly turn a joyous occasion sour. Follow these tips:

- Use a meat thermometer. Poultry should be cooked to 185 degrees, at an oven temperature of at least 135 degrees. Insert the thermometer near the inner thigh by the breast. If the turkey comes with a "pop-out," use a meat thermometer to ensure it is done. It is best to avoid stuffing entirely, but if you choose to add stuffing, make sure it registers to 165 degrees.

- Fresh turkeys can be safely stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days before cooking. Avoid prestuffed turkey.

- Frozen turkeys can be stored indefinately, but require proper defrosting. Defrosting in the refrigerator is ideal, but for more rapid defrosting, place the turkey (in a leak proof bag) in cold water. Do not defrost on the counter. If you choose the cold water method, cook immediately after defrosting.

Rules for defrosting: In the refrigerator: In cold water:
4-12 pounds 1-3 days 4-6 hours
12-16 pounds 3-4 days 6-8 hours
16-20 pounds 4-5 days 8-10 hours
20-24 pounds 5-6 days 10-12 hours

If you have questions about food preparation or safety, the USDA has a hotline available at 1-800-535-4555.

7. Store food soon after eating. Food should be returned to the refrigerator within two hours of preparation. This is especially important with meats and foods containing mayonaise.

8. Use separate cutting boards for meats and other foods. Using the same cutting board for meats and other foods can result in contamination. In addition, never use the same platter for raw and cooked meats. Wood cutting boards can harbor bacteria. If you choose these, run them through a hot dishwasher after use.

9. Remember allergies. Allergies, especially those to nuts, have become more common and can be life threatening. For those at risk, even traces of nuts from another dish can pose a significant threat. If you are entertaining someone with a nut allergy, it is best to skip the nuts completely in any dish.

10. Eggnog safety. Eggnog recipes call for uncooked eggs that can be contaminated by Salmonella. If you make your own eggnog, be sure to use pasteurized eggs and cook yellows lightly during preparation.Happy holiday eating!

For further healthy tips and information on cancer prevention buy Avoiding Cancer One Day At A Time.

Friday, December 21, 2007

Health Insurance And Cancer Survival - The Convincing Reality

47 Million Uninsured = 47 Million More Likely To Die From Cancer

My friend David Kerns received this email "quote-of-the-day" from Don McCanne, a member of the Physicians for National Health Program. Many of us that practice or have practiced medicine have felt that a lack of health insurance is associated with an earlier demise. The American Cancer Society Research below lends numbers to that intuition.

I personally recall one special patient that yanks at my heart strings from beyond each time I think of the large number of working uninsured. She lived with symptoms suggestive of cancer for seven years before consulting me - after she knew she had lost the battle of deciding whether to make house payments for her modest home, or purchase health insurance.

The December 20, 2007 American Cancer Report Links Health Insurance Status With Cancer. Americans are less likely to get screened for cancer, more likely to be diagnosed with an advanced stage of the disease, and less likely to survive that diagnosis than their privately insured counterparts, according to a new American Cancer Society report examining the impact of health insurance status on cancer treatment and survival.

American Cancer Society researchers analyzed 598,635 cases using the most recent data from the National Cancer Data Base, a hospital-based registry held by the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons. The registry tracks approximately 70% of the cancer cases in the United States and collects data from about 1,500 hospitals. The patients included had either private insurance, Medicaid, or no insurance. The researchers also examined data from the 2005 and 2006 National Health Interview Survey, a nationwide in-person survey of approximately 40,000 U.S. households conducted by the National Center for Health Statistics of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

For all cancers combined, the researchers found that uninsured patients were 1.6 times as likely to die within 5 years compared to individuals with private insurance. People with lower incomes were less likely to have insurance, the report found. And those without insurance were less likely to use certain health services. About 54% of uninsured patients aged 18 to 64 did not have a usual source of health care. About 26% delayed care due to cost, while nearly 23% did not get care because of cost. An estimated 23% did not get prescription drugs because of the expense. Individuals with health insurance were about twice as likely as those without to have had a recent mammogram or cancer screening. People with insurance were also more likely to be diagnosed with early stage disease and less likely to be diagnosed with advanced stage disease than the uninsured. The researchers saw a survival difference in breast and cancer, too. About 89% of privately insured white women with breast cancer survived at least 5 years, compared to 76% of white women with Medicaid or no insurance. Among African-American women, 81% of breast cancer patients with private insurance survived 5 years, compared to 65% of those on Medicaid and 63% of those without insurance.

A similar pattern emerged in colorectal cancer. Among white patients with private insurance, 66% survived 5 years, compared to 50% of those with no insurance and 46% of those on Medicaid. Among African Americans, 60% with private insurance survived 5 years compared to 41% of the uninsured and Medicaid patients. The risk of being uninsured or underinsured varies. Almost anyone can be undrerinsured in the event of a major illness. Underinsured, commonly defined as people who spend more than 10% of their after-tax household income on out-of-pocket expenses in the event of a serious illness, often don't realize the gravity of their situation until faced with high premiums and deductibles, limits on terms for covered services, and caps on monthly, lifetime, or disease- specific coverage.

According to a 2003 study sponsored by the Agency for Health Care Research and Quality, the prevalence of being underinsured increased from 6.7% to 8.5% among nonelderly adults between 1996 and 2003. These numbers shot up when the costs of health insurance premiums were factored in. Among people with cancer, 29% had out-of-pocket expenses that exceeded 10% of their family's income and about 11% exceeded it by 20% http://www.cancer.org/docroot/NWS/content/ _1_1x_Report_Links_Health_Insurance_Status_With_Cancer_Care.asp"

Association of Insurance with Cancer Care Utilization and Outcomes" January/February 2008 issue of CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, published by the American Cancer Society:http://caonline.amcancersoc.org/Quote-of-the-day@mccanne.orghttp://two.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/quote-of-the-day

As the 2008 election approaches, health care is a central issue. Both parties see a need, from a Democratic candidate promising universal health care, to a Republican candidate that met a need to insure all children in Arkansas. The issue rouses complex issues in political philosophy - but one thing remains the same. Cost is an issue. Hopefully, we will see a movement that emphasizes prevention, lowering the risk that individuals will develop chronic diseases - illnesses responsible for 70 percent of health care costs, and free up money so that patients, such as my patient, "Mrs. Failedbythesystem" above, can be insured.

My friend, David Kerns, the author of "Standard of Care", a heartwrenchingly honest yet fictional portrayal of the ethical dilemas in our current health care system, can be visited at http://www.davidkerns.com/.

For information on cancer prevention, buy Avoiding Cancer One Day At A Time.

Thursday, December 20, 2007

Are You Giving Yourself Cancer?

AOL Body recently published a "quiz" using ten of the twenty-five cancer prevention IQ test questions in our book, "Avoiding Cancer One Day At A Time."

Take the quiz on AOL Body

To see the rest of the questions, visit Avoiding Cancer One Day At A Time and click on the Cancer Prevention Quiz on the left side of the home page.

For those who want further reading on the question on drycleaning, and are interested in where to find wet-cleaners or liquid CO2 cleaners near their homes by zip code, visit our blog entry on drycleaning.

Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Ten Tips For A Healthy Holiday - Part Two

Part Two - Home Safety

Certainly snowy roads and enebriated drivers pose a threat during the holiday season, but hazards in the home deserve attention as well. Keep in mind these home safety tips as you enjoy the season.

2. Check your carbon monoxide detector Roughly 70 percent of non-fire related, unintentional deaths from carbon monoxide are related to home heating systems. Good ventilation is important, but there is no substitute for continuous monitoring. Early warning signs of exposure can mimic colds or the flu, illnesses common at this time of year - when we also rely more on warmth from fossil fuels. When you visit loved ones this season, check to make sure their carbon monoxide detectors are working as well - it could be the best gift you share!

3. Practice fire safety Each year, fire kills more Americans than all natural disasters combined. The cool weather combined with candles and Christmas trees make this time of year particularly dangerous. Overall, 74 percent of house fires are caused by some form of alternative heating, such as space heaters, wood burning stoves, and fireplaces. In 2005, 200 house fires were started by Christmas trees resulting in 24 fatalities and 27 injuries.

Tips for enjoying the season while lowering the risk:

- Make sure your smoke alarms are in good working condition, and change them if needed.

- Keep all items, especially flammable objects like bedding, away from alternative heating sources - Never leave burning candles unattended .

- Keep your Christmas tree well watered and remove it from the house if too dry.

- Carefully inspect electrical lights you place on your tree and around your home (nearly half of tree fires are started by shorts in electical lights)

- Keep a fire extinguisher on hand.

- Periodically review what to do in case of a fire with your family.

4. Keep an eye on your children The careful child-proofing we do most of the year to make sure our homes are safe for our children, tends to give way during the holiday season - as we make way for lights and decorations. This, combined with the distraction of baking and wrapping, can be a set up for disaster. Take a moment to get down on the floor and "think" like a child. What dangers are tempting? Then, make sure the distractions don't interfere with a watchful eye. If you can't do it all - ask for help!

Coming next, food safety.

For information on a healthy lifestyle and cancer prevention, buy Avoiding Cancer One Day At A Time.

Ten Tips For A Healthy Holiday - Part One

Part One - Drive Safely We anxiously await and plan for the holidays. The lights, sights, and sounds of the season, and time spent with family and friends are cherished for the next twelve months. Too often, the joy of the season comes to a sharp halt - through accidents or illness.

As you prepare for the festivities, take a moment to consider a few safety tips.

1. Buckle up, and stay home if the weather is frightening. Fear of flying may keep some people home this holiday season, but fatalities from motor vehicle accidents are equivalent to a full plane crashing every day. The days surrounding Christmas and New Years include four of the deadliest days on the road. Of all traffic fatalities, December 23rd ranks third, the 24th fourth, the 22nd fifth, and January 1st seventh, according to a report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The deadliest time of day is between 3PM and 6PM - the time many are traveling to visit family and friends.

The causes? Some are due to alcohol. Some due to rushing to hit that next all-important holiday party without being unfashionably late. Many are due to weather conditions at this time of year. Tips: First, buckle up. Second, do not be afraid to decline an invitation due to weather. And third, and most important, do not drive if you consume alcohol. Half of car crashes on New Years involve alcohol. Perhaps the best preparation you can make - if you are the host or hostess - is to watch the weather. Reshedule your party if the weather turns frightful. Ask the question, would you want to drive in that weather? And if not, take the initiative so those - who will risk the drive because of your hard planning - can save face and stay home!

Coming next, safety at home.

For information and tips on cancer prevention buy Avoiding Cancer One Day At A Time.

Thursday, December 13, 2007

Two New Votes For Raw Foods - New Research On Diet And Cancer Prevention

Two New Votes For Raw foods!

Two studies presented at the recent Sixth Annual International Conference on Frontier's in Cancer Prevention, cast another vote for raw foods.

The first study, conducted at the MD Anderson Cancer Center, investigated the role of diet in the development of lung cancer. It was found that those who ate less than three servings of salad per week, were twice as likely to develop lung cancer as those who ate four or more salads per week, regardless of smoking history. The reduction was, however, more dramatic in those who had smoked.

The second study,performed by researchers at the Roswell Park Cancer Institute, looked at raw cruciferous vegetables and the development of bladder cancer. In this study, individuals who ate three or more servings of raw cruciferous vegetables per month, cut their risk of developing bladder cancer by 40 percent.

Most noteworthy, the conference emphasized again that there are things we can do to lower our risk of developing cancer, and diet plays an important role.Practical Tips from the studies:

- Try to eat at least four servings of salad per weekFor variety, and to add an extra punch of cancer prevention, top these with broccoli sprouts, watercress, green onions, avocados, and a low-cal vinaigrette.

- Eat a minimum of three servings of cruciferous vegetables per monthKeep in mind that even elected officials may dislike broccoli, but there is a wide range of vegetables classified as cruciferous. These include: cauliflower, cabbage, brussel sprouts, bok choy, kale, kohlrabi, turnips, rutabaga, arugula, wasabi, radishes, and collard greens.

For further information on cancer prevention, buy Avoid Cancer One Day At A Time.

Friday, December 7, 2007

Black Raspberries For Taste - And A Lower Risk Of Cancer

Would you like to lower your risk of developing the fastest growing cancer in the U.S?

We can hear the groans. "OK, tomorrow I'll lose 90 pounds, start exercising two hours a day, quit smoking, and go organic."But there is something simple you can do today - and it doesn't even require willpower!Eat a few black raspberries!

Black raspberries may lower the risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC), the fastest growing cancer in the U.S. Chronic gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), can damage the esophagus and lead to esophageal cancer. Many people have experienced the most common symptom, heartburn, but some people experience chest pain, difficulty swallowing, or in some cases, no symptoms at all. A pre-cancerous condition known as Barrett's esophagus develops in approximately 10 to 20 percent of people with GERD. Of these people, up to 1 percent go on to develop esophageal cancer in a given year.

Anyone with symptoms of GERD should consult a health care provider, and it has been recommended that those who have symptoms for a period of five or more years be screened by endoscopy.

In the meantime, add a few luscious black raspberries to your cuisine. Not only are they a low calorie treat (obesity increases the risk of esophageal cancer), but appear to decrease oxidative stress (a process which can lead to cancer) in those with Barrett's esophagus.

Of course, eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, and avoiding tobacco are the most important steps in lowering cancer risk. But, even little steps may make a long term difference. While you are in the produce department select a few of these other cancer fighters as well: red delicious apples (preferably organic), avocados, papayas, pomegranates, brocolli sprouts, and red grapes.

For further information on cancer prevention through nutrition and environmental awareness, see Avoiding Cancer One Day At A Time.

Wednesday, December 5, 2007

Beyond Cancer Prevention - Living Consciously, Dying Gracefully

Sometimes, those who least deserve to get cancer - do.

Our blog has been centered on cancer prevention, yet, we're keenly aware that many have suffered the diagnosis of, and too often the loss of, loved ones from cancer. Many of these people were "doing everything right," and following the principles we discuss. Our condolences go out to you.

In "Living Consciously, Dying Gracefully: A Journey with Cancer and Beyond," authors Nancy Manahan and Becky Bohan "relive" the life of Nancy's sister-in-law Diane Manahan. From her diagnosis of breast cancer, integrative approach to treatment, planning her own death at home, and even moments after her death where she touched those she loved, her story brings a wonderful comfort, and renewed joy to those left behind.

The holidays can stir up emotions for those who have feared, or felt this loss. Having cancer take loved ones in our own lives, we are grateful for the work of these two exceptional women - a work that can bring comfort and joy to those heavy with grief and sorrow at this time of year.

Diane's gift, captured in this book, will be my gift this year to many!"

One of the finest books I have ever read! Impeccably written...like a good friend talking with you over tea and a warm fire. The book is juicy, alive, and vital--a compelling read about a woman I wish I'd met."Editor of Marriage Magazine"

Stunning...an unforgettable, deeply touching and honestly written book. It's not about fearing death--it's about embracing life."Armchair Interviews.

Further information, including how to order, can be found at http://www.nanbec.com/.

For information on cancer prevention, visit Avoiding Cancer One Day At A Time.

Friday, November 30, 2007

Cancer And The Environment: Paddling For The Cause

Many of us have raced for the cure for cancer. Now, a remarkable man has initiated a similarly healthy approach, paddling, to raise money to find the cause. And, not just for breast cancer.

Rich Pagen, a conservation biologist, has combined his love for friends with his love of nature. Inspired by friends that developed cancer far too young, and fueled by his knowledge, he "jumped in the water." In September, he paddled the waters of the boundary waters canoe area, to raise money to study the environmental causes of cancer. If you do not read another word today, make it his website. For those who were shocked by the sinking of the ship Explorer in Antarctica last week, this came as an even greater shock to Rich, who in addition to his many other endeavors, instructed many about sea mammals and conservation aboard this ship.

Can you imagine the world if we find the elusive cures? Eutopia? Oh - but a cure still implies cancer was present, and too many of us know what that experience is like for our loved ones or ourselves.

Now, imagine a world where we know the causes. A world where we hear about the causes so we can act accordingly. A world where searching for the causes is considered important - even though it does not cater to any shareholders best interests. A world where the two-thirds of cancers caused by the environment and the world around us, simply do not exist.

Impossible? A century ago we scoffed at those that thought humans could get off the ground. As each new discovery brought us closer to flying, each penny donated, will bring us closer to that ideal. The only thing lacking is enough people like Rich Pagen, and enough resources to pull it off. Our thanks and praises to Rich, whom I am honored to have finally had the opportunity to meet in person this past week. The generous use of his time and resources will most likely benefit many - who may never hear his name.

Rich will be taking donations until December 8th at his website. After that time, donations can be directed to the University of Pittsburg Cancer Institute, Center for Environmental Oncology (Director Devra Davis). For those still looking for the perfect Christmas gift, consider the beautiful jewelry depicting the beauty in nature created by Rich's special someone.

Further information on the environment and cancer, including what we can do today to lower our risk, is available at Avoiding Cancer One Day At A Time.

Friday, November 23, 2007

Cancer Prevention Gift Ideas

Holiday Gift Ideas With Cancer Prevention In Mind

We spend time agonizing over the right gift during the holidays to express our love. Why not make the time and money spent, help keep your loved ones around for more holidays? We offer a list of ideas that will not only express your love, but many lower their risk of cancer as well!

FOR ADULTS

A Fire Chimney For Barbeque Fans. A fire chimney eliminates the need for lighter fluid, which contains cancer causing substances.

A Pedometer. Preferably given to a few recipients that can compare mileage. Exercise reduces the risk of developing cancer, and even modest increases in daily activity count.

Houseplants. Indoor air is ranked 4th in environment causes of cancer by the environmental protection agency. Houseplants can absorb many of the carcinogens in our households! Our favorites include: Peace lilies, palms, ferns, ficus, chrysanthemum, and English ivy.

Gift Certificates For Seattle Sutton, or similar stores, where you can go for a few hours a month and prepare meals to freeze and reheat on busy days. Rather than purchasing gift certificates to restaurants that may not be used, or worse yet fast food chains, invest in your loved ones opportunity to eat home cooked food despite a hectic life. For the "foodies" in your life, consider a gift certificate to an organic or raw food restaurant near their home.
Slippers. These will not only warm the feet of those you love, but putting on these new slippers at the door, can lower their exposure to carcinogens dragged in on the bottoms of shoes.

A Vegetable Steamer. 97% of the cancer fighting chemicals in brocolli are destroyed in the microwave.

Healthy Cookbooks With A Flare. Our suggestion would be one of the excellent Mediterranean cookbooks now available. Many studies have demonstrated a lower risk of developing cancer in those who consume a Meditteranean diet.

Gift Certificates to health food/natural food stores.

Meat Marinades For The Barbeque Lover. Marinading meats for at least 40 minutes prior to barbequing greatly decreases the content of heterocyclic amines, cancer causing chemicals created by grilling.

Gourmet Olive Oil. Olive oil is increasingly becoming recognized for it cancer fighting properties.

Cooking Utensils Without Non-Stick Finishes. Choose glass, stainless or ceramc-coated pans.

Potpourri Or Cinnamon Sticks. Many air fresheners, both standing and electric, can emit carcinogens. The aroma from potpourri can spice up the air and ignite your loved ones olfactory receptors, without contributing to cancer risk.
Music They Will Find Relaxing. Music can lower stress levels. A lower level of stress may lower the risk of developing cancer.

A Water Filter. We recommend a reverse osmosis filter for your kitchen tap. Carcinogens have been found in both private well and municipal water supplies. In addition, chlorinated water has been shown to cause cancer in animals.

Hot Cocoa And Dark Chocolate. Hot cocoa has twice the antioxidants of green tea, and a bar of dark chocolate has as many polyphenols (cancer fighting antioxidants) as that found in two days diet of fruits and vegetables.

A Workout With A Personal Trainer. Consider making it a two-person session and write a note that you will join them.

A 3 Month Memberhsip To Your Local Fitness Club Or Community Center. Make sure to include a brochure describing available classes.

A Copy Of The Book Avoiding Cancer One Day At A Time. Not fanatical, and grounded in credible research, this book......provides simple ideas everyone can do every day to lower their risk!

FOR CHILDREN

Physical activity in girls in childhood, is associated with a significantly lower risk of developing breast cancer later in life.

Instead of cell phones & video games, or in addition to them, consider:

Balls Of Any Kind
Jump Ropes
Tennis Rackets
Sidewalk Chalk
A Ping Pong Table
Bicycles
Toy Rakes & Shovels
A Hula Hoop
Ice Skates
Running Shoes
Kites
Bocce Ball Sets
Badminton Net & Paddles
A Canoe
Frisbees
Swim Goggles
A Pet They Are Required To Walk