Cancer - Prevention
Many people have lesions on their pancreas, which can lead to cancer. Now, researchers are finding out who is at highest risk. Here’s what you need to know--including 7 warning signs.
Plus, how to avoid exposure to these cancer-causing substances.
How do these common tests detect potentially deadly cancers?
… And how you may be able to prevent them.
The importance of early detection--and a new option.
Can a daily dose of aspirin help prevent cancer?
Aspirin and other painkillers may reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence in obese women. Here s how it works.
Could you be at risk for cancers of the head and neck?
What the latest research on preventing, detecting, and treating breast cancer means for you.
Can weight loss help prevent breast cancer?
All the latest statistics on the most common cancer in women.
Shift work (working during the time when most people are asleep) may increase your risk of cancer learn what you can do about it.
Alcohol consumption is a significant risk factor for cancer, but the headlines may be a bit misleading.
One of the most psychologically and socially devastating side effects of chemotherapy is hair loss. Although not yet FDA-approved, cold caps have helped many women hold onto their locks.
Research shows bees can be trained to sniff out early-stage cancer.
Can citrus zest prevent skin cancer? It may. While more research needs to be done, there is an association between citrus peel consumption and a reduced rate of skin cancer. Don t toss that sunscreen just yet, though!
Many patients undergoing chemotherapy are in need of platelets. Here's how you can help.
In addition to knowing your blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol numbers, you should also know your white blood cell count. Here's the lifesaving reason why.
They've been touted as a less-toxic alternative to regular cigarettes. But research suggests e-cigarettes may have little effect on smoking cessation. Learn more.
The brain fog experienced by people with cancer can be controlled. Here's what it is, and what you, or a loved one, can do about it.
Both breast and ovarian cancers are strongly linked to two specific genes. Learn more about what options are available for women with mutations in these genes.
Scientists are learning much more about leukemia and lymphoma. This is good news for those with either condition. Here's the update.
Grapefruit juice can increase the potency of certain drugs, converting them to life-threatening doses. Here's what you need to know.
Here's how to understand the latest health news and what it means for your diagnosis.
It's a frightening topic. Fortunately, huge strides have been made in treatment, and a majority of cases go into remission.
Though most cases of breast cancer occur in women over 55, thousands under the age of 40 are diagnosed each year. Find out if you're at increased risk and what you can do to protect yourself.
Environmental factors account for about two-thirds of all cancer cases, according to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Here's what you need to know.
Understanding how melanoma metastasizes will help scientists develop potential new treatment therapies.
Learn how one person with Myeloproliferative Neoplasm (MPN) used his diagnosis to bring awareness to this rare type of blood cancer.
Don't let cancer cramp your style. These hints will help you thrive during treatment.
Think you're covered in case of cancer? You might need to think again.
The treatment of thyroid disease depends on many factors, including the type and severity of the disorder as well as the age and overall health of the patient.
This little-known herb has been used since ancient times to treat liver ailments. Learn more about it.
Angiogenesis is a controlled process through which new blood vessels form from pre-existing vessels. When the balance of angiogenesis is off-balance in the body, abnormal blood vessels grow, potentially leading to cancer. Can certain foods inhibit this loss of control?
After disclosing your cancer diagnosis, you may find friends and family behaving differently toward you. Here's how to put an end to the awkwardness.
Ever noticed how some people seem to be more resistant to getting sick? Preliminary research suggests this phenomenon may apply to cancer as well.
With many diseases, early detection results in better treatment results. But that's not the case with ovarian cancer. Here's why.
Raise a glass to this recent finding: A compound in red wine may make prostate tumor cells more responsive to radiation treatment.
The colonoscopy is both a screening tool and a preventative measure. Learn more about how this procedure can protect your health, and when it s time to have one.
Which natural foods are the top standouts when it comes to boosting your cancer-fighting power?
Oral cancer includes cancer of the mouth, back of the mouth, and lips. It usually begins in the flat cells that cover the surface of the mouth.
An estimated 750,000 Americans get sepsis each year and 28 and 50 percent will die from the infection. Who's at risk for sepsis, and what can be done to prevent it?
Get the health benefits without upsetting your stomach.
Cervical cancer used to be one of the most common causes of death from cancer for American women. Rates have improved, but it's still essential to have the facts.
A strong intestinal barrier may be key to preventing certain cancers and other diseases. Here's how to strengthen yours.
Here s why you should become familiar with the symptoms of Actinic Keratosis.
Smoking is a significant risk factor for lung (and other) cancers and is responsible for almost 90 percent of all lung cancer deaths. However, we all know individuals who smoke for a long time and never develop cancer.
Popping a piece of chocolate every day may offer protection against colon cancer. Here's why and the best bites for you.
If detected early, many forms of cancer can be successfully treated. Here's a look at the disease by the numbers.
Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, but it is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer. Here's a look at the disease by the numbers.
A new test may save thousands of lives by helping doctors diagnose bowel and pancreatic cancers earlier.
Men can prevent health risks by paying attention to changes in their body and seeing their doctor when something isn't right.
Scientists are at work on a vaccine that would prevent the development of cancer cells in the body. Get the update.
What do the guidelines from the United States Preventive Task Force mean for you?
Skin cancer rates are likely to increase in the coming years. Find out how behavioral and dietary changes can reduce your risk.
Here are the risk factors, screening options, symptoms, and treatment methods for testicular cancer, a type of cancer that results in hundreds of deaths each year in the U.S.
There is no guaranteed protection against breast cancer, but there are things you can do to reduce your risk.
Keeping up with all your health screenings may seem daunting, but this list can get you started on a year of healthy living.
Screening is the process of looking for cancer in people who have no symptoms. Although it could potentially catch the disease in its early stages, it could also bring on unnecessary worry and angst. Learn more about the pros and cons of this controversial topic.
Fresh fruits and vegetables help fight disease, but do you know which ones are best to prevent developing bowel cancer?
Your scalp can be a hidden zone for skin cancer, but a new study and advocacy campaign gets behind an innovative solution.
Learn what researchers have found about caffeine's effect on skin cancer prevention.
Fresh fruits and vegetables can help fight cancer, but do you know which ones are best for your bowel?
While cancer is one of the leading causes of death in both men and women, there are particular factors unique to men that make them more susceptible of ending the battle against cancer sooner than in women.
While cancer treatments continue to become more effective and targeted, the number of people diagnosed with cancer is on the rise. Understand the high-level trends and how they could affect you.
Mammograms save lives. Or do they? Breast cancer deaths have declined over the past two decades. Is this due to routine screenings or better treatment techniques?
You know it does, but do you know how and why smoking is one of the greatest health risks out there? Understanding what's behind the risk might help you or a loved one give them up for good.
Many men may find this to be startling news, but breast cancer doesn't happen only in women. Although men don't have breasts in the sense that women do, they do have breast tissue and enough of it to make breast cancer possible.
You've heard they do. You've heard they don't. So, what are the experts saying about the real risk?
Over the last few years, some hair salons and barbers have been dispensing more than just trims. They've been giving out health advice, too.
Some physicians call ovarian cancer the silent killer because of its vague, non-specific symptoms. So on the surface, it sounds like regular screening would save lives. But it's not that simple.
Numerous studies have linked the consumption of red meat (beef, pork, and lamb) and processed meats to an increased risk for a wide range of cancers.
When you apply sunscreens that say "broad spectrum," "sweat-resistant," or "SPF 100," are you truly getting the protection you paid for? These new sunscreen regulations can help you make the right choice to protect yourself.
Did you know that many products used for personal hygiene and beauty can be major sources of human exposure to dangerous chemicals?
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. So, when fresh air and sunshine beckons your family outside to play, be sure to pack sunscreen along with your diapers, snacks, and other essentials. Here's all you need to know.
Although advancing age and being a woman are the two most significant risk factors for breast cancer, a family history also raises your risk of developing breast cancer and developing it at a younger age.
One chemo side effect is the potential to increase patients' risk for heart failure, particularly in those who already have heart disease. Here's what you should know and what you can do.
Did you know that basal cell carcinoma is the most common kind of cancer in America? It can ravage your skin and even cause disfiguration if not treated properly. Be sure you know how to detect and deal with signs of this skin cancer.
What could be the downsides of potentially detecting cancer or another serious disease before it advances to a more-difficult-to-treat stage? Well, 150 times more radiation than a chest x-ray, for one thing.
We all know that eating a diet rich in whole grains is good for your heart. Now a new study shows that the kind of fiber found in whole grains may also reduce your risk of dying at an early age from a variety of other causes.
The new technique of 3-D mammograms, or digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), overlays 3-D optical mammogram images with x-ray images.
Researchers have found that women are 11 times more likely to develop this serious condition if they are missing teeth or have gum disease. What's the connection?
Although prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men (lung cancer being number one) it's not clear if the benefits of screening outweigh the risks of treating what is generally a slow-growing and treatable (in the early stages) cancer.
The evidence is overwhelming that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables helps prevent cancer. Cruciferous vegetables, in particular, deliver compounds that help prevent the transformation of normal cells into cancer.
Also known as hereditary hemochromatosis, the body absorbs too much iron from foods you eat. The excess iron then gets stored in your organs, especially the liver, heart, and pancreas, which over time can damage them and lead to life-threatening illnesses.
Who would have thought that having allergies could actually be good for you? You may hate the sneezing, coughing, and itching that come with allergies, but researchers have discovered a new reason to appreciate this misery.
When it comes to kids and secondhand smoke, is there a safe level? And what does secondhand smoke affect?
All eyes have been on Japan as residents struggle to recover from the earthquake and tsunami. Fears of nuclear radiation leaks persist, raising questions and concerns whether radiation will reach the U.S. and how much of a potential danger it would pose.
If you can't remember the last time you saw a doctor (taking your kids to the pediatrician doesn't count), you're probably long overdue for a checkup. Whether it's ego, lack of time, or just not fond of needles, men are known to resist medical care.
It turns out that these sweet little berries may play a key role in preventing colon cancer. And there are creative ways you can incorporate this super fruit into your daily menu.
The standard of care for ovarian cancer treatment has changed over time. What's the latest in the battle against this hard-to-diagnose disease?
Almost a quarter of a million Americans are diagnosed with Squamous Cell Carcinoma every year, and the numbers are growing. But what are the causes and warning signs? And are you doing enough to protect yourself?
Recall the days of your childhood. Does it involve you drinking a half pint of milk each day at school? If so, it can have a tremendous impact on whether or not you're at risk for colon cancer.
While cancer researchers have often come to conflicting conclusions in their studies, to date the results are encouraging.
Does radiation from the airport x-ray scanners pose a health risk, including increased risk of cancer? Here are the facts.
Eating the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables can feel a bit daunting, especially for busy families on the go. The good news is that it's a lot easier than you might imagine.
The goal of cancer treatment is to put the disease in remission. But cancer can recur in several different ways.
Ovarian cancer is among the sneakiest cancers. Its symptoms can be so vague that 80 percent of women who develop it don't know they have it until it's spread to other organs. Recent studies, however, reveal new genetic clues about who's at risk.
Is it possible that certain widely-used pain relievers may have a role in cancer prevention and treatment?
The key to effective supplementation is to know what you're taking and why you're taking it.
The National Cancer Institute predicts approximately 25,000 people will develop throat cancer in 2010.
The most common type of cancer in the United States is also widely misunderstood. Take action to keep you and your family safe from skin cancer.
Find out what makes this form of cancer so fatal.
It s hard to imagine anything positive about having asthma or eczema. However, a recent study suggested that men who have either immune system disease have a lower risk for common types of cancer.
This supplement has a big reputation, but what do the studies show when it comes to cancer prevention?
Scientists have been accumulating evidence that a poor diet is a strong risk factor for colon and rectal cancer (colorectal). A new study provides additional, convincing support.
One study stated that women with the highest self-reported use of household cleaning products had twice the risk of developing breast cancer. What should you do?
Most men are more likely to get a tune-up for their car than they are a checkup for themselves. Don't let health take a backseat. Here, six health tests every man should have.
According to the National Cancer Institute, about 55 million pap smears are performed each year and of those, only 3.5 million are abnormal, requiring further medical follow-up.
Despite all the warnings about the link between the sun and skin cancer, many people still try to keep tanned. So that prompts us to ask the question: how much tanning is too much?
Here's the information you need to know to protect yourself when it comes to the herpes virus.
Doctors and researchers are not clear on what causes this disease, which affects approximately 8,000 new patients each year, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI).
Although the recommended testing procedure for prostate cancer is controversial, the truth is that prostate health should be of top priority for men ages 45 and older.
Urine tests, which have been used to some degree to help screen for prostate, bladder, breast, and lung cancer, may also be effective for detecting and diagnosing colon cancer.
In late 2009, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) created a brouhaha among cancer organizations, physicians, women's advocacy groups, and patients when it released its updated mammography screening recommendations. Here are the highlights from these guidelines.
Recent findings by the US Environmental Protection Agency found that air inside the home may be more polluted than outdoor air, because of toxins contained in common cleaning solutions.
The Pap smear, or Papanicolaou test, looks for abnormal changes on the cells of the cervix that may indicate cervical cancer.
Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that can strike in unexpected places, including the eye.
The National Cancer Institute implicates environmental factors in about two-thirds of cancer cases.
Health experts have long linked processed foods, such as hot dogs, sausages, and most lunchmeats to many forms of cancers, including esophageal, lung, pancreatic, stomach, colorectal, endometrial, and prostate. Now they ve added ovarian cancer to the list.
The statistics are sobering: According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), more than 145,000 people each year are diagnosed with colon cancer, and nearly 50,000 people die from the disease. But most cases can be caught before they turn into full-blown cancer.
Men who have asthma are less likely to be diagnosed with common forms of cancer than their healthier counterparts. Common asthmatic symptoms such as wheezing, difficulty breathing, and chest discomfort can play an important role to ward off cancer.
Sun exposure is the single biggest risk factor for skin cancers, so here's what you need to know about sunscreens.
Do multivitamins help prevent cancer? Or do they contribute to the risks? Find out here.
A positive result on a cancer screening test means you have cancer, right? Not necessarily.
Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecological cancer in women over 45, and the fourth most common cancer in women. When detected and treated early, however, endometrial cancer patients have extremely good survival odds.
Research suggests that your TV-viewing habit can be a deadly pastime.
You can significantly reduce your risk for breast cancer recurrence by addressing three lifestyle-related risk factors: being overweight, smoking, and drinking excess alcohol.
An easy way to help prevent breast cancer and increase survival in breast cancer patients may be as close as your medicine cabinet. Two new studies add to the growing body of evidence that aspirin could possibly play a role inhibiting the development and recurrence of breast cancer.
Studies suggest the mango may be effective in preventing the growth of colon cancer cells. An added benefit? It may ward off breast cancer, too.
With all the emphasis on early cancer screening, it s no surprise that at-home screening tests are becoming widely available. However, just because you can screen yourself for some cancers, does that mean you should?
Physicians routinely use the simple urine test to monitor patients health and diagnose disease. Recently, however, scientists have discovered that urine tests may be helpful in detecting cancer as well.
Amidst gloomy reports about the rates of cancer, there is a ray of good news. Over the past several decades, the incidence of colon and rectal cancers (colorectal, or CRC) has declined significantly.
Sex has innumerable benefits, and growing evidence is proving that improved heart health is one of them.
You probably don't associate asthma and cancer, but researchers may now have reason to believe that a new form of cancer treatment may also help improve your breathing difficulties.
Americans are exposed to about 100,000 chemicals daily, and scientists have linked at least 220 of them to the development of cancer.
Electrical pollution from cell phones and WiFi known as "electrosmog" is hazardous to our health, according to recent research.
Women who have survived breast cancer are understandably concerned that they will develop a second breast cancer. However, recent research shows that by limiting their alcohol consumption, breast cancer survivors significantly reduce their risk recurrence.
HPV is commonly linked with cervical cancer. Recently, researchers are fearful of HPV-related throat cancer.
If you're experiencing symptoms of an enlarged prostate, you may unnecessarily jump to the conclusion that you have prostate cancer. That said, BPH could be a warning sign of things to come.
Dr. Anne Wallace, professor of clinical surgery and director of UCSD Moore's Cancer Center Breast Care Unit, answers a reader's question about tests that can detect breast cancer.
Tri Dinh, M.D., FACOG, answers a reader's question about taking precautions to prevent cervical cancer.
In an ideal world, we could prevent cancer instead of just treating it after the fact. For men, the possibility of one or more vaccines for preventing prostate cancer is looming large.
There's good news for post-menopausal women who are at high risk for developing certain types of breast cancers. Researchers say a common spice may protect against some breast cancers. Even better, this ingredient is probably already in your kitchen pantry.
Although 35,000 people in the U.S. develop brain cancer annually, physicians generally diagnose it after symptoms appear, when it s usually too late to cure.
Mammograms save lives. This is the prevailing message from the medical community to women about breast cancer screening. But is it the right message?
Stopping melanoma is a fight you can take on yourself. Here, tips on how to keep your skin cancer-free.
Until recently, the traditional mammogram was the gold standard for breast cancer screening. Today, digital mammograms are also an option. Which is better?
Have you or a loved one survived a life-threatening disease? Are you currently struggling with depression, chronic pain, heart disease, or other health-related condition? Have you gone to extraordinary lengths to help someone in a health crisis? If so, we want to hear from you!
There's more reason than ever to get your daily five servings.
Genes play a large role in whether or not someone is susceptible to a particular disease or condition. Find out if your family history raising your risk of skin cancer.
Controversy is brewing about whether routine PSA testing for prostate cancer is beneficial and whether it saves lives.
Find out what links your diet and your risk for developing this form of cancer.
Learn about a surprising side effect of this common therapy.
How can this procedure help you? Find out here.
Find out how you can catch prostate cancer before it takes hold.
This simple blood test measures the level of PSA, a protein produced in the prostate, present in a man s body.
Colonoscopy isn't the only way to screen for colon cancer.
In 2006, the Food and Drug Administration approved Gardisall, a vaccination to prevent cervical cancer. We know for a fact that HPV human papilloma virus causes cervical cancer. Although less common, HPV can also cause other cancers as well.
Study sheds new light on the diabetes and breast cancer link.
Find out if getting some support is the boost you need to kick the habit.
Who would have thought that your allergies could be a blessing in disguise?
Here's a simple way to get to know your moles.
As fans mourn the passing of Patrick Swayze from pancreatic cancer, learn about this deadly disease and how to reduce your risk.
Younger men who are very active sexually seem more prone to prostate cancer.
Just because some are more notorious than others, doesn't make these cancers less deadly.
Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging, or thermography, may be the best breast cancer screening tool you ve never heard of.
Here, the link between diabetes and pancreatic cancer and a diabetes medication that can lower the risk.
It's not possible to be addicted to tanning...is it?
Is brain cancer treatable? The death of Ted Kennedy has sounded the alarm of this rare disease. New advances in treatment offer more hope than before.
Here s a look at the five deadliest cancers and the factors that may increase your risk.
Learn how to protect your fertility when you have cancer.
Numerous studies over the past seven years have produced conflicting results as to whether certain antidepressants reduce the effectiveness of tamoxifen, a drug women with breast cancer often take.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reviews the safety of autoimmune disorder drugs.
Find out how this one procedure can make all the difference.
Getting a colonoscopy is one of the best ways to prevent colon cancer. However, there are a few things you should know before heading into this procedure.
If you have Crohn s disease, you are probably already familiar with what it s like to have a colonoscopy. Physicians use this procedure to diagnose bowel disease and it s invaluable in screening for colon and rectal cancer.
With so many women being diagnosed with breast cancer every year, it may seem inevitable that you or someone you know will get it. The good news is there are many things you can do to help prevent the disease.
After 20 years of treating breast cancer with less invasive techniques such as a lumpectomy, the pendulum has swung in the opposite direction. Now, many women are opting to have both breasts removed after they develop cancer in one breast. If you are facing breast cancer, here s what you should know.
A new help for cancer patients may be on the horizon.
If you re trying to quit smoking to reduce your risk of lung cancer, a journal may be an invaluable addition to your smoking cessation toolbox.
From symptoms to treatments, here's a rundown of what every woman should know.
How are these most feared diseases related?
Can you utilize the power of antioxidants for breast cancer treatment?
You know exercise is good for your heart, but did you know it also plays an important role in preventing and treating breast cancer?
The very latest in colorectal cancer developments.
Reducing your alcohol consumption reduces your risk of developing cancer.
Those who stand in the limelight also stand up to and for cancer.
Are you at higher risk for cancer because of your genes?
You can reduce your risk of developing breast cancer--using your diet.
This silent disease is more common than you may think.
When it comes it sun exposure, too much of a good thing can lead to skin cancer.
Don't let outdoor activities put you at risk for skin cancer.
Colon cancer--common and highly curable
You may be at higher risk, but there are ways you can protect yourself.
If caught early, colon cancer has a very high cure rate. Learn what signs to look for.
This silent disease is more common than you may think. Learn how you can protect yourself.
You exercise, eat right, get plenty of sleep, and avoid excess stress. Complete your health puzzle by learning your family's health history.
The next time you have a craving for deli meats, think twice. There could be health dangers lurking behind that deli counter. Here is the information you need to know before you make or buy your next sandwich.
When it comes to UV exposure, is your town savvy or foolish? Find out here.
A diet rich in whole grains can help lower the risk of some serious health conditions.
Are French fries dangerous? Can popcorn make you sick? Find out which foods may cause cancer.
Some may be hard to believe, but all are true.
Could today's innovations be hazardous to your health? Read on to get the real story.
Find out how you can reduce your risk of acquiring this disease.
Simple screw-ups are a part of life, but in medicine, these mistakes can be fatal. Learn how to protect yourself.
Colon cancer is the third most common form of cancer in the United States. Here, a guide to the disease, from screening to treatment.
Get the inside scoop on how certain countries manage to stay so slim.
More people are being diagnosed with brain tumors than ever before. Find out why.
The relationship between human papillomavirus and cervical cancer is a complex one. Get the facts now.
Heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), if it occurs regularly is a common digestive disorder that affects about 15 million Americans. Learn about symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.