There is strong evidence that consuming alcohol and processed meat increases the risk of certain cancers.
**What is Processed Meat?**
Processed meat is defined as meat that has been preserved through methods such as smoking, curing, or the addition of preservatives. Examples of processed meat include bacon, sausages, ham, salami, and canned meats.
**The Link to Cancer**
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies both alcohol and processed meat as Group 1 carcinogens, which are linked to an increased risk of colorectal, stomach, head and neck, liver, pancreatic, prostate, and breast cancers.
**Why Is There an Increased Risk?**
Several factors contribute to this increased risk:
**Preservatives**: Sodium nitrite and nitrate can form carcinogenic compounds.
- **Heme Iron**: This iron, found in processed meat, may promote the formation of carcinogens.
- **Cooking Methods**: Cooking at high temperatures can create harmful compounds.
- **Alcohol Consumption**: Higher alcohol intake is associated with a greater cancer risk. Alcohol can also lead to DNA damage, changes in hormone levels (such as increased estrogen), and a weakened immune system.
**To Reduce Cancer Risk:**
1. Limit alcohol consumption and drink in moderation if you choose to drink.
2. Avoid binge drinking, which quickly raises blood alcohol levels.
3. Consider abstaining from alcohol if you are at high risk due to family history, heavy smoking, or other health concerns.
4. Opt for alternatives such as fresh meat, fish, beans, and eggs.
5. Cook meals from scratch to avoid processed options.
6. Limit portion sizes when consuming processed meat.
Remember, maintaining a balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce your cancer risk.
#eatforlife
Mouth Cancer
Mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer, refers to cancer that develops in the mouth or oral cavity. Here are some key facts and information about mouth cancer:
*Symptoms:*
1. Persistent mouth sores or ulcers
2. White or red patches on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth
3. Unexplained bleeding or numbness
4. Difficulty swallowing or speaking
5. Changes in voice or pronunciation
6. Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
7. Pain or discomfort in the mouth or jaw
*Causes and Risk Factors:*
1. Tobacco use (smoking, chewing)
2. Excessive alcohol consumption
3. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
4. Poor oral hygiene
5. Family history
6. Age (risk increases after 40)
7. UV radiation (lip cancer)
*Prevention:*
1. Quit tobacco and excessive alcohol use.
2. Practice good oral hygiene.
3. Limit UV radiation.
4. Get regular dental check-ups.
5. Consider HPV vaccination.
If you suspect mouth cancer or have concerns, consult your dentist or healthcare provider for an evaluation and guidance.
#trendingstories #mouthcancer
BRCA Gene
The BRCA gene!
The BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are human genes that produce proteins responsible for repairing damaged DNA and, therefore, play a key role in maintaining the genetic stability of cells.
When either of these genes is mutated, or altered, such that its protein product is not made correctly or not made at all, DNA damage may not be properly repaired. This increases the risk for cancer.
*Key points:*
1. BRCA stands for Breast Cancer Gene.
2. There are two main BRCA genes: BRCA1 and BRCA2.
3. Everyone has these genes in their DNA.
4. Mutations in BRCA genes increase the risk of:
- Breast cancer (up to 72% lifetime risk for BRCA1, up to 69% for BRCA2)
- Ovarian cancer (up to 44% lifetime risk for BRCA1, up to 17% for BRCA2)
- Other cancers (e.g., prostate, pancreatic, melanoma)
5. Mutations are inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, meaning:
- A single copy of the mutated gene is enough to increase cancer risk.
- Each child of a mutation carrier has a 50% chance of inheriting the mutation.
6. Genetic testing can identify BRCA mutations.
7. Risk-reducing options for mutation carriers include:
- Early screening and surveillance
- Risk-reducing mastectomy
- Salpingo-oophorectomy (removal of ovaries and fallopian tubes)
- Chemoprevention
*Prevalence:*
- About 1 in 500 people in the general population carry a BRCA mutation.
- Among Ashkenazi Jewish individuals, the prevalence is higher (1 in 40).
*Importance of genetic counseling:*
If you're concerned about your family history or cancer risk, consider speaking with a genetic counselor. They can:
1. Assess your family history.
2. Determine if genetic testing is right for you.
3. Interpret test results.
4. Discuss risk management options.
Do you have any specific questions about BRCA genes or genetic testing?
Video Credit : ABC News
#breastcancermonth #pinkoctober #brca
Breast cancer in men, while rare, accounts for about 1% of all breast cancer diagnoses. Here are some key facts and information:
*Risk Factors:*
1. Family history: Inherited mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes increase risk.
2. Age: Risk increases with age, especially after 60.
3. Radiation exposure: History of radiation therapy to the chest area.
4. Hormonal imbalance: High estrogen levels, often due to conditions like Klinefelter syndrome.
5. Obesity: Linked to increased estrogen levels.
6. Liver disease: Cirrhosis and liver dysfunction can lead to hormonal imbalances.
*Symptoms:*
1. Lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area
2. Change in breast size or shape
3. Dimpling or puckering of the skin
4. Redness or scaling of the skin
5. Nipple discharge or bleeding
6. Pain or tenderness
*Diagnosis:*
1. Physical examination
2. Mammography (less effective in men due to smaller breast tissue)
3. Ultrasound
4. Biopsy (core needle or excisional)
*Treatment:*
1. Surgery: Mastectomy or lumpectomy
2. Radiation therapy
3. Hormone therapy (e.g., tamoxifen)
4. Chemotherapy
5. Targeted therapy (e.g., trastuzumab for HER2-positive tumors)
*Prognosis:*
1. Similar to women's breast cancer, with 5-year survival rates around 90%
2. Early detection improves outcomes
*Awareness and Screening:*
1. Men should perform regular self-exams
2. Clinical breast exams by a healthcare provider (annually, starting at 40)
3. Consider mammography for high-risk individuals
#breastcancermonth🎀 #menwithbreastcancer
It's mammography day! You know, the day to remind us all about taking care of our breast health and the importance of mammograms in catching breast cancer early.
Here's the deal:
- Mammograms can spot breast cancer super early, even before you feel anything.
- Getting regular mammograms can seriously lower the chances of dying from breast cancer by up to 30%.
- They're really good at diagnosing breast cancer accurately.
Now, when should you get one?
- If you're 40 or older, it's time for yearly mammograms.
- If breast cancer runs in your family, talk to your doc about starting earlier.
- If you have other risk factors, chat with your doc to figure out the best screening schedule for you.
To make your mammogram experience a breeze:
- Book your appointment in advance.
- Wear comfy clothes and skip the deodorant, perfume, and jewelry.
- Be ready to share your medical history and family history.
Take charge of your breast health!
Have you scheduled your mammogram yet?
Take a Loved One to The Doctor Day
Today is 'Take a Loved One to the Doctor' day! It's important to show your support by accompanying your loved ones to their medical appointments. Whether it's a routine check-up or a specialist visit, being there for them can make a world of difference. Let's prioritize their health and well-being together!
Our support and care can make a huge difference in their well-being. Let's show our loved ones that they are never alone in their health journey.
Stop Juicing if you have cancer
There are numerous health trends currently in vogue, and for many cancer patients, the most popular one is juicing.
When a person consumes juice, they ingest a high concentration of natural sugars and carbohydrates in a very short period of time. This presents a specific challenge for cancer survivors.
The influx of sugar causes a rapid increase in blood sugar levels, followed by a subsequent crash. This fluctuation leaves the individual with lower energy levels compared to before consuming the juice.
Additionally, the juicing process removes the fiber from fruits and vegetables. This discarded fiber plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of cancer.
Therefore, it is essential to explore alternative methods of incorporating fruits and vegetables into our diets. Some effective approaches include blending smoothies that retain the whole plant, preparing salads, incorporating fruits and vegetables into sauces and baking, and steaming them as a side dish.
There are numerous "superfoods" in our world, but the truth of the matter is that research has shown that including a variety of fruits and vegetables in your meals is more effective at maintaining good health than just one plant.
In my cancer journey, I have learned to find ways to include certain specific plants in my diet regularly, specifically ginger and cruciferous vegetables, tomatoes, garlic, carrots, beetroots, and fruits in season. However, today, we will be looking at ginger and cruciferous vegetables.
Certain scientific studies have suggested that ginger may have the remarkable ability to induce apoptosis (death) in various types of cancer, including skin, ovarian, colon, breast, cervical, oral, renal, prostate, gastric, pancreatic, liver, and brain. This potential anticancer effect may be attributed to ginger's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimutagenic properties, among other biological activities. However, it is important to note that ginger is a potent blood thinner and should be consumed with caution. A daily intake of 3 grams is generally considered safe and sufficient.
Cruciferous vegetables, including cabbage, broccoli, kale, cauliflower, and others, contain a phytochemical called sulforaphane. This plant compound has been associated with a reduced risk of prostate, breast, colon, and oral cancers. Sulforaphane helps prevent the formation of cancer cells and inhibits the growth of existing tumors by preventing their vascularization.
Ideal Weight
One of the guidelines for cancer survivors is maintaining a healthy weight. The challenge lies in identifying the ideal weight, as most individuals struggle to recognize it. Obesity is often the only time a person is perceived as overweight.
However, the discussion extends beyond weight and delves into body composition, specifically the ratio of fat to muscle. Nonetheless, for the majority of individuals, the initial step should be achieving a healthy weight. It is crucial to distinguish a healthy weight from being underweight, as both extremes pose health risks.
Maintaining a healthy weight can be demanding, requiring significant discipline, perseverance, and effort. However, it is certainly achievable with the right approach and commitment.
Alcohol has been classified as a type 1 carcinogen. 😱 All alcoholic drinks, including red and white wine, beer, and liquor, are linked to cancer. 🍷🍺🚫
Alcohol has been linked to cancers such as:
- Mouth and throat 👄
- Voice box 🗣️
- Esophagus 🤢
- Colorectal 💩
- Liver 🤢
- Breast 💔
Some studies show that drinking three or more alcoholic drinks per day increases the risk of stomach and prostate cancer. 😱
For those undergoing cancer treatment, alcohol can worsen the effects of chemotherapy. 🤢 Alcohol use also increases the risk of recurrence. 🔁
It can take several years before the risk of alcohol in the body is completely eliminated, so today would be a good day to quit and start working toward a healthier you.
💪 #QuitAlcohol #HealthierYou #CancerAwareness
