Andrea's Buddy Blog

Dense Breast & the Risk Of Recurrence

AndreaRoane — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 13:53:00 GMT

Good Morning Buddies,

Wishing you a very gopod day ahead. Just wanted to share this interesting article on breast desnity & the chance for a recurring cancer. As always, please read and share with a Buddy and the next time you visit your doctor or nurse practitioner---ask them what they think wbout the study.

A new study finds that women treated for breast cancer are at higher risk of cancer recurrence if they have dense breasts. Published in the December 15, 2009 issue of CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society, the study?s results indicate that breast cancer patients with dense breasts may benefit from additional therapies following surgery, such as radiation.

Previous studies indicate that women with dense breast tissue are at increased risk of breast cancer. Researchers have suspected that high breast density may also increase the risk of cancer recurrence after lumpectomy, but this theory has not been thoroughly studied.

Researchers led by Steven A. Narod, MD, of the Women?s College Research Institute in Toronto, reviewed the medical records of 335 patients who had undergone lumpectomy for breast cancer. Investigators monitored the patients for cancer recurrence and compared recurrence with breast density as seen on mammogram, categorized as low density (<25 percent dense tissue), intermediate density (25 percent to 50 percent dense tissue) or high density (>50 percent dense tissue).

The researchers found that patients with the highest breast density had a much greater risk of cancer recurrence than did women with the lowest breast density. Over ten years, women in the highest breast density category had a 21 percent chance of cancer recurrence, compared with a 5 percent chance among women in the lowest category. The difference in the recurrence rates at ten years was even more pronounced for women who did not receive radiation. In those women, 40 percent with high-density breast tissue had a recurrence compared with none of the patients with low density.

?The composition of the breast tissue surrounding the breast cancer is important in predicting whether or not a breast cancer will return after surgery,? concluded Dr. Narod. The authors say their findings indicate that women with low breast density, who have a low chance of recurrence after surgery, may not need radiation but that women with high breast density could significantly benefit from the additional therapy.

Read other Breast Cancer News on my the Buddy Check 9 Facebook Fan Page @
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Buddy-Check-9-NEWS-NOW-DC/56149334325?ref=ts

Have a great day!!!!!!

What Do Women Want From Their Oncologist????? Honesty Is ALWAYS The Best Policy

AndreaRoane — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:41:00 GMT

Hi Buddies,

     Here is an article I found very interesting on what women really want and don't always getting from their oncologist. As always, please read it carefully and then share it with your Buddies.

                      Cancer patients want honesty, compassion from their oncologist [Eureka News Service]

            What do patients want from their radiation oncologists? The most significant preference is that more than one-third of female cancer patients (37 percent) prefer to have their hands held by their radiation oncologists during important office visits, compared to 12 percent of men, according to a randomized study presented November 4, 2009, at the 51st Annual Meeting of the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO).
           Another significant finding is that almost three-quarters of the patients (72 percent) preferred to be called by their first name, even among elderly patients. There is a greater preference for this among females than males (76 percent to 66 percent), and white patients compared to blacks (74 percent to 56 percent).
          The study also shows that while 95 percent of all patients want their oncologist to be honest with them about their chances of cure and expected survival, there is a significantly increased preference for honesty among prostate cancer patients versus lung cancer patients (97 to 91 percent).
          "In oncology, a strong physician-patient relationship is essential because the patient's interactions with their doctor can help the patient confidently make life or death decisions, such as what cancer treatment is best for them," Ajay Bhatnagar, M.D., lead author of the study, a radiation oncologist at Cancer Treatment Services International in Casa Grande, Ariz., and Adjunct Assistant Professor of Radiation Oncology at the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute in Pittsburgh said. "Oncologists can use these results to provide greater patient satisfaction for their patients, and therefore significantly improve patient care."
            The study sought to find out what cancer patients wanted from their patient-doctor relationship and whether their physicians would be able to change their behaviors to satisfy their patients' preferences if they had knowledge of these preferences.
           The prospective randomized trial took place between June 2006 and March 2008 and involved 508 patients, who underwent radiation for breast, prostate or lung cancer. Patients answered a survey about their preferences of their radiation oncologist, with a variety of questions focusing on the patient-doctor relationship.
            The survey was given at three time periods: prior to initial consultation, midpoint of radiation treatment, and at completion of radiation therapy.
            The patients were randomized into two groups, based on whether their oncologist reviewed their initial patient preference survey responses (experimental group) or did not (control group). At time of completion, the patient also completed a satisfaction survey. In addition to other findings, nearly three-quarters of all patients (70 percent) are neutral about their radiation oncologist wearing a white coat or professional clothing.
           The study also shows that 95 percent of high school graduates show a greater preference for having their radiation treatment described in everyday language by their radiation oncologists, compared to 91 percent of college graduates and 84 percent of post-graduate patients.

The Link Between Breast Cancer & Smoking

AndreaRoane — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:35:00 GMT

Hi Buddies,

      Finding all sorts of interesting material from Breast Cancer News. This article gives women, especially younger women, a reason to stop or never even put a cigarette to their lips in the first place. Please pay careful attention to the information in this story and then share it with your Buddies.


       Until recently, the evidence surrounding the link between breast cancer and tobacco smoke was inconclusive. Now, according to an international panel of experts convened by the Ontario Tobacco Research Unit (OTRU) sufficient scientific evidence exists linking second-hand smoke exposure to pre-menopausal breast cancer and active smoking to breast cancer in women of all ages. In support of these findings, Physicians for a Smoke-Free Canada are calling on health advocates and delegates at the 6th National Conference on Tobacco or Health to support the inclusion of this risk factor in the new set of health warning labels currently being developed by Health Canada. "Detailed analysis of new and existing research has led us to conclude there is persuasive evidence linking smoking and second-hand smoke exposure to breast cancer in pre-menopausal women," said Neil Collishaw, Chair of the International Panel and research director of Physicians for a Smoke-Free Canada. "Evidence also links breast cancer to active smoking in post-menopausal women." ..... "It is imperative that young women know that any exposure to tobacco smoke, whether through active smoking or passive inhalation, increases their risk of developing breast cancer," said Cynthia Callard, executive director of Physicians for a Smoke-Free Canada. "Given that breast cancer affects the lives of so many women, Health Canada needs to include this risk factor in their new set of health warning labels so that smokers are deterred from smoking and exposing women unnecessarily to this deadly disease." Tobacco use is the single largest cause of preventable death and disease and one of the biggest strains on Canada's healthcare system.

Hooray for Maimah!!!!!

AndreaRoane — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:38:00 GMT

Hi Buddies,

     In October, our Heroes Central Project featured Maimah Karmo, founder of the Tigerlily Foundation. It's mission, to alert younger women that they too are at risk for breast cancer. Maimah was in her 30s when she was diagnosed. You can find her profile on the Buddy Check 9 home page. And I was pleased to serve as the M-C of the Foundation's first gala in October @ the Willard Hotel.
     Now news from Maimah that her efforts are being recognized by L'Oreal. Here's the email she sent with the fantastic news. There's also a way you can help Maimah's Foundation.

From Maimah: L’Oreal Paris has awarded me the prestigious honor of Women Of Worth, 2009 for my efforts to increase awareness of the issue of young women and breast cancer. As you know, Tigerlily Foundation works to educate, advocate for, empower and provide support and services to young women – before, during and after breast cancer. As a recipient, my organization will be awarded $5000.00! I'm thrilled about this amazing recognition and the prize which will be so helpful for our charity. Now our organization has the opportunity of winning an additional $25,000 but we need your help! There will be a public online vote for National Women of Worth beginning November 9th. I need your vote to help further the efforts of Tigerlily Foundation. Winning an additional $25,000 donation would mean that we will be able to do additional outreach and services to young women in need. You can vote now at http://www.womenofworth.com/home/home.aspx. Please also send this to everyone you know. As you know, a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every 3 minutes. Young women in particular, have more aggressive breast cancers and higher mortality rates. Awareness and early detection could save a young woman’s life. Please help us win so that we can further our mission! To learn more please visit the Women of Worth L’Oréal Facebook page and become a fan. Hurry, voting ends November 24, 2009!

        Thanks & Congratulations Maimah. Buddies, please check out the websites Maimah included in her email and vote!!!!!!!

Andrea

Fit For The Cure

AndreaRoane — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:26:00 GMT

Hi Buddies,

    Two items I want you to consider.

      WACOL is sponsoring FIT FOR THE CURE today at Lord & Taylor. From 11AM to 4PM today, get fitted for a bra at the Chevy Chase, DC and Tysons Corner locations. 2-dollars from every WACOL bra purchase goes to finding a cure. Every woman deserves support!

    Also, Deb Russell, a pediatric nurse and breast cancer survivor, is asking for a small act of kindness from you on behalf of a young child fighting cancer. Here's that story and what you can do to help.

5yr old Noah Biorkman is in the last stages of a 2 year battle with Neuroblastoma Cancer. His family is celebrating Christmas next week and Noahs request is to get lots of Christmas cards. Please send cards to: Noah Biorkman 1141 Fountian View Circle South Lyon, MI 48178 Lets see How many cards we can get to this Little guy.

Thanks to Deb for getting us in the true meaning of the holiday spirit---early.
Have a great day!!!!!
Andrea

When you Look Good, You Do Feel Better

AndreaRoane — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:43:00 GMT

Hi Buddies,

A very interesting study from the University of Pennsylvania on weight training, body image and survivorship. Click on the link below, read and then share with your Buddies.

http://www.uphs.upenn.edu/news/News_Releases/2009/11/cancer-survivors-self-esteem/

Andrea

Buddy Check 9 November Reminder

AndreaRoane — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:17:00 GMT

Hi Buddies,

     This is your early reminder. Monday is the 9th of the month. Please call your Buddies. Remind the women & men in your life to take the necessary steps to good health and practice Early Detection. That means monthly breast exams for women starting at age 17-20 and for men in the high risk category. Also, annual mammograms for women over 40 and men who are at high risk, and regular clinical exams by a doctor or nurse practitioner.
      On Monday, I will profile Jeanelle Williams. The PG County suvivor learned she had breast cancer just after celebrating her 40th. bitrthday. She has insurance but the therapies, medicines, plus the day to day responsibilities: mortgage, private schooling for her 7-year old daughter, food, and utilities depleted her income and savings.
      Too sick to work full time and facing a shutoff by PEPCO, the single mother of 3 heard about the All Shades Of Pink Utilities Assistance Program.

Find out how ASOP came to Jeanelle's rescue and how you can All Shades Of Pink in its mission of easing the financial stress so that women and men facing breast cancer can focus on wellness.
See Jeanelle's story Monday, 9 November on 9 News @ 5 AM.

Andrea

http://www.allshadesofpink.org/

Going Global With Komen

AndreaRoane — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 12:40:00 GMT

Good Mornig Buddies,

As we begin the last week of observing breast cancer awareness month, I want to share with you this article about some of the activities Komen For the Cure is pursuing around the globe.

Home > About Us > Our Global Reach > Impacting Breast Cancer in Egypt this October

Impacting Breast Cancer in Egypt this October

Somewhere in the world, a woman dies from breast cancer every 68 seconds. In Egypt, this harsh reality is magnified by the cultural stigmas surrounding the disease. Most breast cancer cases in Egypt are diagnosed at advanced stages, significantly reducing a patient’s chances for survival.

Susan G. Komen for the Cure^® is collaborating with the Breast Cancer Foundation of Egypt (BCFE), The Suzanne Mubarak Regional Center for Women’s Health and Development (SMC), The Suzanne Mubarak Women’s International Peace Movement and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), to showcase Egypt’s leadership in the fight against breast cancer and ignite the breast cancer movement throughout the region. This collaboration is in support of the Ministry of Health's National Program to Combat Breast Cancer in Egypt.

This October, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Komen will shine a light on the life-saving work of health professionals, advocates and survivors who are on the front lines of Egypt’s battle against breast cancer. Komen will support and participate in a series of breast health education and outreach activities, including the following:

OCTOBER 23—EVE OF RACE RECEPTION AT THE MENA HOUSE: Susan G. Komen for the Cure will host a special reception honoring H.E. Mrs. Suzanne Mubarak and Egyptian NGOs working on breast health education and outreach programs in Egypt. Komen Founder Ambassador Nancy G. Brinker, Medal of Freedom recipient and WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Cancer Control, will deliver remarks and be joined by a U.S. delegation of breast cancer advocates, survivors and donors supporting the mission.
OCTOBER 24—EGYPT RACE FOR THE CURE^®: The Breast Cancer Foundation of Egypt (BCFE) will partner with Susan G. Komen for the Cure in hosting the first-ever Egypt Race for the Cure around the Pyramids of Giza, under the patronage of H.E. Mrs. Suzanne Mubarak. Egyptian and Middle Eastern women will demonstrate their courage and strength as they break the silence and stigmas associated with breast cancer by participating in this historic event. The Race for the Cure originated 26 years ago in Dallas, Texas and is recognized as the world’s largest and most successful series of run/walk events designed to break the silence about breast cancer, celebrate survivorship and raise awareness about early detection. More than 130 annual Race for the Cure events are held across the globe attracting 1.5 million participants and over 100,000 volunteers. Fourteen international Race events will take place in 2009.
OCTOBER 22-27—U.S. DELEGATION TRIP: Susan G. Komen for the Cure will bring a high-level delegation of advocates, donors and breast cancer survivors to Egypt. Ambassador Nancy G. Brinker, Komen Founder, Medal of Freedom recipient and WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Cancer Control, will lead the U.S. delegation. The goals of the trip are to create an understanding of the state of breast cancer in Egypt through first-hand visits with medical professionals and patients, to witness the impact of collaboration between leading non-profit and government organizations, and actively engage the Delegation in raising awareness and funds for breast health programs in Egypt. The delegates will also join the regional advocates in roundtable discussions on breast cancer in the region.
OCTOBER 25—UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA’S 15^th ANNUAL MULTIDISCIPLINARY SYMPOSIUM ON BREAST DISEASE: Since 1995, the University of Florida has been hosting the annual Multidisciplinary Symposium on Breast Disease. The symposium will take place at the Grand Hyatt in Cairo from October 24-27 with the support of BCFE, Egypt’s National Cancer Institute, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the American Cancer Society and others. The purpose of the Symposium is to bring together leading medical experts from around the globe to address disparities in quality of care, preventative practices and clinical outcomes associated with breast cancer. Ambassador Nancy G. Brinker, Komen Founder, Medal of Freedom recipient and WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Cancer Control, will deliver the keynote address at the morning opening session of the Symposium on Sunday, October 25.

Breast Cancer Awareness & Men

AndreaRoane — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 09:06:00 GMT

Good Morning Buddies,

       October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. On thing we should all remember this month--- breast cancer affects men too --- like our Buddy Eric Hansen.
       I profiled Eric in June 2008. As a volunteer with the ACS Relay For Life in Poolesville, Maryland, Eric knew that men could be diagnosed with breast cancer. He was also fortunate enough to have a doctor who did not dismiss his breast cancer concerns.
       Eric's cancer was stage one. He had a mastectomy and was able to avoid chemo and radiation and was considered cancer free. But cancer is a tough opponent. This is the latest from Eric in his own words:
             About three weeks ago during a routine check-up with my Oncologist, I pointed out a small growth that I had been monitoring near my original mastectomy scar that had been growing for several months. She didn’t originally feel that it was a recurrence (at least not similar to one she’d seen before in women) but cut it out and sent it off for a biopsy. Four days later I again heard the words none of us want to hear (and it wasn’t any easier this time) I had Cancer…..again. I just had some additional surgery this week to remove more tissue from the area hoping to get into clean tissue (negative margins) and those tests came back good. Unlike last time though, we are going to be more aggressive in the treatment and radiation (every day for 6 weeks) will begin near the end of the month. Not exactly how I expected to celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness month but if my case brings more awareness to other men to get checked out and pay attention to any changes in their bodies then I guess it all has a purpose. As always, you can contact me with any questions and certainly pass on my contact information to those men out there who have questions.

   Eric wears a tattoo on his arm as his badge of survivorship. He hopes it tells others, especially men you can fight back and win. Please keep Eric in your thoughts and prayers

       Here's the link so you can watch & read my original profile of Eric Hansen. Don't forget to share Eric's story with your Buddies --- both women and men.

http://www.wusa9.com/rss/local_article.aspx?storyid=71652

What's Better Than Early Detection?

AndreaRoane — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 16:30:00 GMT

IN THIS ISSUE

Breast Thermography
Dental Bytes
Vaccination Conference
SkinCeutical Sale
Upcoming Classes HOLISTIC MEDICAL TEAMIntegrative MedicinePaul Beals MDTracy Freeman MD
Charles Gant MD PhDMark Garzon MDCharlene Kannankeril NDBruce Rind MD
Cathy Scoblionko MSNBarbara Solomon MD
Ralph Wilson NDPeter Jun Wu CMD
DENTAL TEAMBiological Dentistry Mark J. McClure DDSArman Davoudian DMDMichelle Janbakhsh DDSBryon Lew DDSLowell Weiner DDSLaurie DeRosa RDH HEALTH TEAMBrigitte Everett LMT
Lisa Klein PT, IMT

REGISTERED NATUROPATHS
Deborah McCabeMaureane O'ShaugnessyScott Richards NUTRITION TEAMEve Colantoni CHCKathy Kramer CNLisa Wilson CHC

Visit the NIHA Website Holistic & Integrative Medicine
www.nihadc.com

What's better than a cure for cancer?
Not getting it to begin with!

Please join us for a

Breast Thermography Webinar

Tuesday, October 13
8 - 9 PM
Presented by Bruce Rind MD
What is Thermography?

Empower yourself with knowledge
Learn how breast thermography can help anticipate an oncoming cancer risk, years ahead of time
Early detection tool for early prevention
Non-invasive assessment
For women of all ages Register nowFor thermography, Dr. Bruce Rind uses state of the art equipment. This permits excellent imaging quality which is useful not only for assessing breast health or risk but also for monitoring treatments so that we can see if a treatment is working. We can also monitor to see if changes in the appearance of the breast thermogram are occurring over time. Thus the value of the thermogram increases over time as it allows us to monitor for changes. In this presentation, Dr Rind will explain what is thermography and share details about it that most people are unaware of yet are quite fascinating. Dr. Rind is a holistic physician, practicing for for 28 yrs. In addition to being a board certified anesthesiologist, he has had osteopathic training, acupuncture and nutritional training. His areas of interest are endocrinology, non-surgical correction of orthopedic and musculo-skeletal problems, osteopathy, reversal of brain injury, stroke injury and cerebral palsy based on a technique he developed 15 yrs ago to accomplish this with a nutritional intravenous therapy, and of course, thermography. Using his diverse background, he has developed ways to help women rapidly shrink lumps, clear fibrocystic breast disease, and take a thermography image that looks pre-cancerous and restore breast health so that the thermographic image will then look healthy as it should. Empower yourself with knowledge. Register now

You can check out how Thermography worrks at wusa9.com.. My Buddy Check 9 report appeared in January.