Cancer Resources

We hear a lot these days about stem cell research, but many of us are unaware of what exactly stem cells are and what can be done with them. There are several types of stem cells including adult stem cells and embryonic stem cells. Adult stem cells reside throughout the human body within tissue, blood and organs; they are plentiful and readily available. Adult stem cells refers to the stage or maturity of the stem cell. They are also found in the tissues of the umbilical cord (after live birth), spinal cord, fat, bone marrow, dental pulp, nasal cavity, brain, peripheral blood, blood vessels, skeletal muscle, skin, cornea, digestive system, retina, liver, and pancreas.

Peripheral stem cell transplantation is the process of removing the stem cells from one person and donating them to a recipient- in my case it was my brother. In most cases donors are siblings since tissue type is most identical to the patient’s own. After it had been determined that I was a perfect match for my brother, I had a physical and endless blood work. I passed my tests and then it was on to phase one.

This involved six days of receiving neupogen shots which stimulate the release of stem cells from the bone marrow into my blood so they can be harvested for my brother. It’s important during this period to drink plenty of water. I had decided to go to the hospital each day for the shots, but some people opt to inject themselves at home. The shots sting a bit and after the first several days, mild bone aches began- mostly in my hip and sternum. It was nothing that an occasional tylenol couldn’t remedy. Continue reading ‘A Personal Account of Stem Cell Donation’ »

As I continue to write, I continue to read from the wisdom of others. I especially like well researched scholarly works that gather and present facts that substantiate truths and beliefs as we struggle to find ways to justify decisions we make about life and health and wellness.

And so I read another well written, well researched article in the LA Times, this one, by Devon Schuyler, March, 22, 2010: “Obesity’s role in cancer. It may not cause the disease, but studies show a link between fat and certain types.” I hope you read it too.

I am neither a cancer doctor nor a reporter. Although, I like the facts, they reinforce my beliefs. I pay most attention to a picture bigger than isolated facts; i.e. that Excess Fat is related to and the cause of many obvious and provable health problems and is suspected to be the cause of many more. Continue reading ‘Fat’s Role In Illness’ »

Prostate cancer is the male equivalent of breast cancer, which plagues millions of women. Fortunately, a little precaution can reduce the dangers of prostate cancer, and might even help save your life. It is crucial for men to pay attention to their health, especially as they age. Prostate cancer is the third major cause of cancer-related deaths in men. Many men do not realize the severity of this hazardous disease and fail to receive regular prostate checkups.

Prostate cancer starts with the growth of a malignant tumor inside the prostate gland and spreads by extending into the bladder, seminal vesicles, and peritoneal cavity. It eventually metastasizes to the bones, lymph nodes, lungs, liver, and kidneys. The cause of prostate cancer is unknown, although recent studies find a small relation between increased testosterone levels and high dietary fat intake. Prostate cancer is rarely occurs in men under 40 years of age. The highest level of occurrence is greatest in African-American men over 60 years old. Increased occurrence is also associated environmental exposure to cadmium, a metallic element. The lowest incidence of prostate cancer occurs in vegetarians. Continue reading ‘The Man Killer: Prostate Cancer’ »