Tag Archives: cancer

Israeli scientists invent robot ‘sub’ that travels through human veins

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Tel Aviv: Israeli scientists have created a robot ‘submarine’ which is so small it can swim through the veins to provide medical treatment.

Dr Nir Schwalb, of the Judea and Samaria College, and Oded Salomon, of the Israel Institute of Technology, say their machine has the unique ability to ‘crawl’ through tubes the width of blood vessels and is even able to travel against the flow of blood, using magnetic power, as it passes through veins and arteries.

Previous micro-robots have been too large to enter the smallest and most complex areas of the body but the latest is one millimetre in diameter and has tiny arms which allow it to ‘grip’ as it travels along. The robot is still in development but it is hoped that in future it may be used to treat a variety of diseases including cancer.

Mr Salomon said: ‘We believe we have created a robot that will be tiny enough to pass through the body and at the same time have navigational abilities for performing-complex medical tasks. We are discussing with doctors from many different fields which application will be most useful.

Micro-surgery is usually carried out with catheters and endoscopes which are far too large for most parts of the body.

Europe’s first breast cancer clinic opens

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Manchester: Europe’s first breast-cancer centre opens in Manchester later this month.

The Nightingale Centre and Genesis Prevention Centre has been built with £12 million from the UK’s National Health Service (NHS)and £2 million from the Genesis Appeal, and will provide diagnostic and outpatients services for around 500 women every week.

The Genesis Appeal is the UK’s only charity entirely dedicated to preventing breast cancer. The Genesis Research team believes that research into prevention, screening and early diagnosis is the way forward to help the next generation to live free from the fear of breast cancer. Research at the new Centre will be headed by three world renowned, Manchester-based professors: Tony Howell, Gareth Evans and Nigel Bundred. The Centre will provide a base for one of the most ambitious breast cancer research programmes in Europe.

For more information about Genesis and The Genesis Prevention Centre see: www.genesisuk.org or call 08700 62 3000

Each year 50,000 women are invited for screening and the Nightingale Centre will diagnose around 650 cancers per year. The Nightingale Centre is one of six national mammography training centres and houses the largest family history clinic in the UK. Staff are delighted to move to the state-of-the art centre where patients will receive the highest quality care in a purpose built environment.

Breast cancer victims live longer with good diet and exercise

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San Diego: Eating healthy food and taking regular exerice, cuts the risk of dying by half in breast cancer victims, say scientists at the University of California.

Walking for thirty minutes and eating five portions of vegetables and fruit daily offers protection even in obese women.

The studyis the first to look at the combined effects of diet and exercise directly on the survival rates of cancer victims and studied 1,490 women with an average age of 50.

All the women, who had undergone primary therapy for early-stage breast cancer took part in the Women’s Healthy Eating and Living study.

It was concluded that women who were both physically active and had a healthy diet were much more likely to survive for between five and 11 years longer than the others. Only around 7 per cent of the ‘ healthyliving’ women died within 11 years – about half that seen for the others taking part in the study.

The findings are published in the latest issue of the Journal of Clinical Oncology.

Wheat germ extract inhibits cancer, says new expert report

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Chicago: A fermented wheatgerm extract has a greater tumor inhibiting effect on estrogen positive and estrogen negative breast cancers than the world’s best selling cancer drug, Tamoxifen, according to research published today at the 2007 meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).

Known as Avemar, this compound has been extensively studied in many cell lines, animal tumor models, and human clinical trials. In the current study, Andras Telekes, MD, Ph.D., head physician at the Hungarian National Institute of Oncology, and his colleagues, implanted estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) and estrogen receptor-negative (ER-) breast cancer cell lines from humans and mice into female mice and monitored tumor growth. They compared subjects treated with Avemar alone, with those monotherapy with three of the most widely used and studied breast cancer drugs, Tamoxifen (sold under the brand names Nolvadex, Istubal, and Valodex), Exemestane, (sold under the brand name Aromasin), and Anastrozole, (sold under the brand name, Arimidex), and subjects receiving those drugs along with Avemar.

Against the mouse derived estrogen receptor positive (ER+) cell line, MXT, compared to controls, Avemar inhibited growth by 50%, Exemestane by 46.7%, Tamoxifen by 34% and Anastrozole by 29.3%. Against the human ER+ cell line, T47T, Avemar inhibited growth by 49%, Tamoxifen 42%, Exemestane 25% and Anastrazole 25%. The effect of each agent was enhanced by 5 to 10% when combined with Avemar. The best result was obtained from the combination of Exemestane and Avemar, inhibiting both the mouse and human derived ER+ breast tumors by 60%.

Effects against estrogen receptor-negative (ER-) breast cancer was measured with the human derived, MDA-MB-231 cell line. Since prior research shows that these estrogen-blocking drugs are not effective against ER- breast cancers, they were not tested in this tumor model. However, Avemar did inhibit the growth of the ER-negative MDA-MB-231 breast tumors significantly (52%), suggesting to researchers that the mechanism by which the extract works is different from that of the anti-estrogen drugs, and is independent of a breast tumor’s estrogen receptor status.

Since Avemar works equally well against ER+ and ER- cell lines, this suggests that the mechanisms of action by which Avemar inhibits growth in breast tumors are the same mechanisms as those that inhibited tumor growth in multiple other cell lines and tumor types against which the extract has been tested (other breast; lung, pancreatic, colon, melanoma, leukemia, and pancreatic cancers). Avemar anti-tumor effects have been attributed to several mechanisms, in particular its proven ability to interfere with the excess use of glucose by cancer cells, (the Warburg effect), which interferes with the synthesis of DNA needed for cell proliferation.

Avemar is produced by Biromedicina, RT of Budapest, Hungary through the fermentation of wheat germ by baker’s yeast according to a patented process (US no. 6,355,474) and standardized on the compound methoxy-substituted benzoquinones. The Hungarian Ministry of Health has approved Avemar as a “medical food,” with an on-label indication for the treatment of colorectal and other cancers. In the US, Avemar is distributed as a dietary supplement under the brand name Avé™, by American BioSciences, Inc. in Blauvelt, NY and is available nationwide through vitamin retailers, doctors and pharmacies. Additional research on Avemar research can be found via the National Library of Medicine website, www.pubmed.gov, with the search term Avemar. Additional information is available from American BioSciences, 888-884-7770, and www.americanbiosciences.com

Soya supplement proven to relieve menopause symtoms without dangerous side effects, reveal two new studies

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London: Two new studies, each involving 400 menopausal women, who were given a natural soya supplement has shown that it did not cause the potential dangerous side effects sometimes associated with oestrogen such as a thickening of the womb lining or breast cancers.

The studies were carried out by the French pharmaceutical company Arkopharma in relation to its supplement Phyto Soya, which helps relieve menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes by boosting levels of the hormone oestrogen naturally.

Nearly 400 women took part in each of the studies. The first looked at the effects of Phyto Soya on the endometrium – the lining of the womb – in women aged 45 to 65 years old. In this case the 310 biopsies that were available for evaluation at the end of the trial showed no cases of hyperplasia – an abnormal increase in the number of cells or cancer.

Separately, in another international study, which hasn’t yet been published, the women who were taking Phyto Soya were checked for changes in their breasts with mammography and breast ultrasounds. It found no changes at all in any of the subjects, and therefore no risks of breast cancer associated with the supplement. This study also confirmed that it caused no cases of endometriosis.

The studies’ authors are keen to point out that their results only apply to the brand of soya known as Phyto Soya and do not apply to any other soya isoflavone extract.

The good news for women is that a third study showed that trialists taking Phyto Soya experienced significantly fewer hot flushes a day, with two-thirds of them saying their number of hot flushes had been halved and 73% rating it as good or excellent.

The study concludes that menopausal women worried about the long-term effects of taking HRT now have a new, safe alternative in the form of soya extract.

The low incidence of menopausal symptoms in countries like Japan, where people eat a lot of soya, has long caused some experts to claim that soya extracts could do the same job as HRT. However, there was no proof that it was any less risky to take – until now, that is. But these new clinical studies have shown that Phyto Soya not only significantly reduces hot flushes but also is definitely safe when taken over long periods of time.

Soya is one of a number of plants that includes extracts called phytoestrogens, which are chemicals that act like oestrogens in animal cells. Isoflavones, which are found chiefly in soybeans, are specific phytoestrogens that have a chemical structure that is very similar to human oestrogen. This means that they can affect the way that women’s bodies produce oestrogen, if the right types and amounts are used.

Superfood blueberry may protect against bowel cancer, says new research

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New Jersey: Blueberries may prevent colon cancer, a new US study has discovered.

The fruit which has already been labelled a “superfood” because it contains the anti-ageing compound pterostilbene, which could prevent cancer in humans.

Scientists at Rutger University in New Jersey and the US Department of Agriculture said that a pilot study on rats showed that those fed the anti-ageing compound had 57% fewer pre-cancer lesions in their colons. They carried out the experiment on two groups of rats all of which were fed a cancer causing compound called azoxymethan – the group given pterostilbene had least cancer.

Dr Bandaru Reddy, a professor of chemical biology at Rutgers said the blueberry compound was not a cure for cancer but might offer protection against the disease in humans.

It also appeared to reduce the rate at which cancer cells proliferate and inhibited certain genes involved in inflammation.

As well as having anti-ageing properties blueberries are also thought to help with memory loss.

Moderate alcohol increases breast cancer risk

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New York: Drinking just two glasses of wine a day raises a woman’s risk of breast cancer, say researchers at the University of Mississippi Medical Centre.

In an animal experiment, female mice given the human equivalent of two alcoholic drinks a day, developed breast tumours twice the size of those given none.

The six-week old mice were fed moderate amounts of alcohol over a four week period.

Lead researcher Jian-Wei Gu said alcohol consumption is the most important avoidable risk factor for women in contracting breast cancer.

The conclusion is based on the fact that studies in mice mimic the results in humans. It is thought that the increase in tumour size is a result of an increase in blood flow through vessels caused by the alcohol.

HRT blamed for 1,000 ovarian cancer deaths

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London: Women taking hormone replacement therapy are 20% more likely to suffer from ovarian cancer, claims a new report. More more than 1,000 women died in the last 15 years after contracting ovarian cancer following hormone replacement therapy it says.

The study published in the latest issue of The Lancet medical journal etimates that 70 deaths a yar are connected to taking the therapy which is dogged with controversy and confusion.

US researchers recently produced evidence to suggest that women int heir 50s on HRT are protected from heart attachs and premature death. This contradicted earlier claims that it put women at risk of heart disease.

This latest study, sponsored by Million Women Study, was started in 1996 suggests that more than 1,300 extra cases of ovarian cancer occured between 1991 and 2005. Of these women, 1,000 died of the disease. It reveals a 20 per cent increase in risk of the disease in women who have taken HRT for at least five years, but says it does not persist if women give up. The study, largely funded by Cancer Research UK, looked at responses from 948,576 postmenopausal women over seven years. It has previously linked HRT with breast cancer.

Overall the statistics mean that over a five-year period there is likely to be one extra case of ovarian cancer among every 2,500 women receiving hormone replacement therapy. For every 3,300 women on HRT, there is estimated to be one additional death from ovarian cancer.

HRT prescribed by the UK’s National Health Service is artificially made hormone replacement usually made from mare’s urine. It is used to combat symptoms of the menopause, including hot flushes, vaginal dryness and night sweats, with a range of drugs including tablets, implants and patches.

Safety concerns led to drug regulatory authorities in the UK and other countries issuing restrictions, including the advice to use it for the shortest time possible, which have continued to deter women from getting treatment. It has been blamed for both womb and breast cancer.GP data shows the number of British women on HRT halved from two to one million between 2002 and 2005.

Dr Ross Perry – Cosmetic Dermatology London

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Dr Ross Perry is a leading cosmetic doctor specialising in advanced non surgical treatments including botox, restylane and skin peels. He also has a large dermatology surgical practice for mole screening and mole removal. He founded Cosmedics UK in 2002 which now has 5 clinics throughout London and the South east. He is a member of General Medical Council as well as the British Association of Cosmetic Doctors. < ahref="http://www.cosmedics.co.uk">www.cosmedics.co.uk

Secondhand smoke – the invisable killer – new government ad campaign launches

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London: Secondhand smoke is an “invisible killer”, according to a shocking new advertising campaign, launched by Public Health Minister Caroline Flint today. Nearly 85 per cent of tobacco smoke is invisible and odourless, but it causes just as much harm to people’s health as the smoke that is visible(i).

In the TV advert, which will be broadcast on UK TV from Monday 5 March, pervasive, dark smoke curls around guests at a wedding reception revealing the actual amount of smoke emitted by a single cigarette. And the smoker’s well intentioned attempts to blow or waft smoke away from non-smokers does not reduce the potential risk of secondhand smoke to health. The ads make this “invisible killer” visible in this family celebration. The TV commercial will be supported by press, online and outdoor advertising from 5 March.

Whilst most smokers and non-smokers believe secondhand smoke can cause harm, a new survey released today to support the campaign shows over half of smokers continue to smoke in a room with adult non-smokers, and a further quarter will still smoke when they’re near children(ii).

Secondhand smoke contains around 4,000 different chemicals. It can increase your chance of developing lung cancer and heart disease and can also cause a variety of serious health conditions including respiratory disease and cot death in children(iii). It’s made up of both side stream smoke from the burning tip of the cigarette, and mainstream smoke exhaled by the smoker. Side stream smoke accounts for nearly 85 per cent of the smoke in a smoky environment and contains a much higher concentration of toxins, such as hydrogen cyanide, ammonia and carbon monoxide.

Launching the new campaign Public Health Minister Caroline Flint said:

“Smoking is harmful not just to smokers but to the people around them. What this new campaign brings home very clearly is the full impact of secondhand smoke. 85 per cent of smoke may be invisible and odourless but it is still damaging people’s health. Wafting and blowing away smoke may seem like the right thing to do but in reality, it makes little difference to the amount of secondhand smoke inhaled by people around you.

“With England going Smokefree on 1st July, there has never been a better time to stop smoking. We have already exceeded our three-year target to help 800,000 people quit by 2005/6, and still more and more people are successfully kicking the habit.”

Professor Jarvis, University College London commented: “Children are particularly affected by breathing the poisons in secondhand tobacco smoke, because their bodies are still developing. Their bronchial tubes and lungs are smaller and immune systems less developed, making them more vulnerable to the toxins in smoke. Despite smokers’ efforts to blow their smoke away, or to not sit near children, they are still causing harm. People need to see secondhand smoke for the invisible killer that it is.”

Mikis Euripides, Asthma UK’s Assistant Director of Policy & Public Affairs said: ‘For people with asthma the effects of smoking can be deadly. 82% of people with this serious condition tell us that other people’s cigarette smoke triggers their asthma and many cannot go out to bars and clubs without the fear of a fatal asthma attack. About 800,000 people with asthma in England are also smokers themselves(iv), increasing their risk of asthma symptoms, asthma attacks and permanent damage to the airways.”

The ads will run until 8th April coinciding with National No Smoking Day on Wednesday 14th March: nosmokingday.org.uk

The best way to protect your family and other adults from secondhand smoke is to stop smoking. For further information phone the NHS Smoking Helpline free on 0800 169 0 169. Smokers who want to quit can also find details of their local NHS Stop Smoking Service by visiting gosmokefree.co.uk texting ‘GIVE UP’ and their full postcode to 88088 or asking at their local GP practice, pharmacy or hospital.

The NHS Smoking Helpline (0800 169 0 169) provides expert, free, and friendly advice to smokers and those close to them. Since its launch it has received over one million calls and a year after first calling the helpline, nearly a quarter of callers said they had successfully stopped and were still not smoking. Advisors can also refer callers to a local NHS Stop Smoking Service offering ongoing free face-to-face support and advice near their own home. There are over 170 throughout the country, offering a range of services including one-to-one meetings and group discussions with trained cessation advisors. Government research shows that smokers are up to four times more likely to stop successfully if they use their local NHS Stop Smoking Service together with NRT than they are if they use willpower alone.

Quitters can also sign up to a new website: justgiving.com/smokefree and quit smoking whilst raising money for a charity of their choice. The NHS also offers an interactive cessation support programme, Together, which helps smokers to quit by providing advice at key stages of the giving up process through a range of communication methods including email, text messages, mailings and phone calls.

Sources for statistics
(i) Chief Medical Office Annual Report 2003/US Surgeon General. The Health Consequences of Smoking: Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease, 1984.

(ii) 90% of UK population believes secondhand smoke can cause harm. However 56% smokers will still smoke in a room with adult non-smokers and 24% smokers will still smoke in a room with children. Research conducted amongst 1,600 adults aged 16-74 in England by BMRB’s Access Omnibus survey, Feb 2007.

(iii) Secondhand smoke increases the risk of lung cancer by 24% and heart disease

by 25%. Scientific Committee on Tobacco and Health (SCOTH) report, 2004.

(iv) 23% of adults with asthma in England are smokers (National Asthma Panel 2006) based on England adult population of 3.49 million with asthma

Immune bank cell storage to fight cancer

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London: A UK company has opened up a cell “bank” that stores an individual’s immune cells for use against any future illness such as cancer.

Lifeforce Immune System Bank, which is already operating after receiving the regulatory approval of the UK’s Medicines Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

It already has 170 customers who have paid the initial £ 395 together with the £12 monthly storage charge.

Stem cells from their baby’s umbilical cord are already stored by some parents for use in case of future illness. But the idea behind the bank in Wales is that white blood cells which have been stored in liquid nitrogen at minus 200c can be reactivated and returned to the body via a drip.

White blood cell treatment is already a recognised way of treating cancer in America, where it is being used for melanoma, liver, kidney and lung cancers.

A recent US study on the therapy showed that two out of 15 patients with melanoma treated with adoptive immunotherapy remained diseasefree two years later — despite having been given just weeks to live.

Currently, white blood cells used in immunotherapy are collected from patients after they have fallen ill and are therefore of inferior quality.

But with the immune system bank, healthy people can have their cells collected and stored — the theory being that these cells will be even more effective fighting diseases such as cancer.

The bank is the brainchild of Dr Alison Davies, a respiratory physiologist from South Wales, who set it up with Professor Bradley Stringer, a specialist in bone cell therapy at Cardiff University.

The bank uses the same kind of collection procedure as the National Blood Service. Blood is taken from the donor and put in a centrifuge, where it is separated into three constituents — plasma, red cells and white cells.

Although immunotherapy is still a relatively new science, the American Cancer Society states that it is now recognised as the fourth way of treating cancer (the others are surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy).

For more information, visit < a href="http://www.immunesystembank.org">www.immunesystembank.org

Newer breast cancer drugs more effective that standard NHS treatment

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London: Studies of female patients in Europe show that new treatments are more effective in fighting breast cancer than the UK’s National Health Service standard drug.

In a report published in the Lancet Oncology medical journal the study demonstrated that taking Arimidex, rather than tamoxifen – which has been used for nearly 30 years – reduces the risk of dying by almost a third and halves the risk of the cancer returning.

Next week the Government is due to approve the use of the three aromatase inhibitors – Arimidex, Femara and Aromasin – alongside the ‘gold standard’ drug tamoxifen. Currently, tamoxifen is prescribed for five years after surgery to cut the risk of the cancer recurring.

The results of the study compared the outcomes for 4,000 postmenopausal breast cancer patients who either remained on tamoxifen for the full five years or switched to Arimidex after two to three.

The results showed fewer disease recurrences and fewer deaths in women who switched to the newer drug.

The study was led by Professor Walter Jonat, from the University of Kiel, Germany, who said: “A lot of people have been waiting to see whether aromatase inhibitors will show a survival advantage, and I think these data will assure them that five years of tamoxifen is no longer the standard of care.”

Stress may lead to mouth cancer

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London: More than one in three Brits admit to alleviating stress by drinking and one in five by smoking, but nearly two out of three were unable to identify both of these as leading causes of mouth cancer.

The new research, conducted for Mouth Cancer Awareness Week (12-18 November) by dental payment plan company Denplan found that while most Brits could identify smoking as a cause of mouth cancer, nearly two-thirds could not identify drinking as a leading risk factor of the disease.

Moreover, respondents in the most at-risk age group for contracting the disease (those aged 45 and older) were the least able to identify smoking and drinking as a major cause of mouth cancer.

Almost half of those questioned admitted to feeling stressed at least oncea day and, given the high percentage of those who turn to cigarettes and alcohol to cope, this indicates that the prevalence of mouth cancer in the UK may be linked to the way we relieve the pressures of modern life. 4,400 new cases of mouth cancer are diagnosed each year in the UK, and the disease kills more than 1,700 annually.

Although Brits regularly drink and smoke as an escape from the stresses of jobs, family life and other commitments, more than 20 per cent did not recognise one of the early warning signs of the disease, an ulcer that does not heal, and a quarter of people would not go to the dentist if they had a mouth ulcer that persisted for weeks.

The results suggest a worrying lack of awareness, and a danger that today’s over-stressed population may be in for a big health scare later in life. The chances of surviving mouth cancer can increase from 50 per cent to nearly 90 per cent if they are detected and treated early.

Dr. Henry Clover, Dental Advisor for dental payment plan company Denplan, said: “While alcohol and cigarettes may help alleviate feelings of stress in the short-term, over time this lifestyle can pose a serious health risk and significantly increase the likelihood of developing mouth cancer.

“As people are increasingly resorting to these methods of relieving stress, it is becoming more and more important that they are able to identify early symptoms of the disease. The most common of these are long lasting sores or ulcers, white or red patches on the gums, tongue or the lining of the mouth
and difficulty swallowing.”

The research also found that: * 44% of 25 – 34 year olds regularly have a drink if they have had a stressful day compared to the 35% who relieve stress through exercise * Seven out of ten respondents over 55 could not name drinking as a majorcause of mouth cancer * When asked to identify common symptoms of the disease, 21% of respondents could not identify an ulcer lasting longer than 2 weeks; and 44% were not able to identify the appearance of white or red patches on the inside of the mouth * Nearly half of us admit to feeling stressed once a day

About the research:- The research was carried out for Denplan by Tickbox.net from the 22nd September to the 5th October 2006 using a survey sample base of 1783.

About AXA AXA is a world leader in financial protection. AXA’s operations are diverse with major operations in Western Europe, North America and the Asia/Pacific area. AXA employs 120,000 staff and tied agents and, as of 31 December 2005, had €1,064 billion in assets under management. AXA reported total IFRS revenues of €72 billion and IFRS underlying earnings of €3,258 million for the full year 2005. Our previous company performance is not a guide to how we may perform in the future.

AXA ordinary shares are listed on the Paris Stock Exchange; AXA American Depositary Shares (ADSs) are listed on the NYSE under the ticker symbol AXA. About Denplan Denplan Ltd., part of the AXA Group, is the UK’s leading dental plan provider with an approximately 80% market share. Denplan has more than 6,000 member dentists nationwide (around a third of General Dental Practitioners) and over 1.6 million registered patients. The company was established in 1986 by two dentists who pioneered the concept of dental payment plans.

Today Denplan provides a range of plans for adults and children, enabling patients to spread the cost of their dental care through a fixed monthly fee. Denplan supports regular attendance and preventive care, reducing the need for clinical intervention and helping patients to maintain healthy teeth and gums for life. Denplan Care: all routine and restorative care + worldwide dental A & E cover Denplan Essentials: routine care only + worldwide dental A & E cover Plans for Children: routine and other agreed care + worldwide dental A & E
cover

Denplan Emergency: worldwide dental A & E cover only Denplan Enhance: interest-free patient loans of £250 – £25,000 for dental treatment Company Dental Plans: company funded, voluntary and flexible benefit
schemes Denplan also provides a range of professional services for its member dentists, including the Denplan Quality Programme, Denplan Excel
accreditation programme and Denplan Training. Patient enquiries telephone: 0800 401 402 Dentist enquiries telephone: 0800 328 3223 www.denplan.co.uk

Impotency drug helps prostate cancer sufferers

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Rotterdam: Rotterdam: The impotence drug Tadalafil is being studied by doctors in Holland to treat prostate cancer patients.

Prostate cancer which can be cured by surgery and radiotherapy often leaves sufferers with nerve damage leaving them impotent.

But the study, carried out at the Erasmus MC-Daniel den Hoed Cancer Center in Rotterdam, published in the International Journal Of Radiation Oncology Biology Physics says that successful sexual relationswere reported in 48 per cent of the survivors who took Tadalafil versus 9 per cent of the men who were given placebo. Sixty-seven per cent of patients reported their erectile function improved versus 20 per cent of the placebo group.

Scientists invent plaster for common skin cancers

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British scientists have developed a plaster that treats skin cancer.

The patch emits a photodynamic ight, similar to that already in use to treat skin cancers, and is powered by a battery. The light is used to stimulate an anti-cancer cream on the skin.

The treatment allows a patient to be treated without spending hours in a hospital.

Professor Ifor Samuel of the Universityof St Andrews is one of the scientists who developed the patch.

The technology could also be used to deliver other treatments for conditions such as acne and also for cosmetic treatments.

Women should examine breasts monthly for cancer, say experts

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London: With Breast Cancer increasing by 1% a year in the UK1 it’s becoming vital for all women to perform a Self Breast Examination each month.

A 2005 survey by BreastTalk.co.uk found out that only 8% of women examine their breasts on a regular basis and 75% of women are not sure what to look for BreastTalk.co.uk has put together simple, easy to follow instructions for performing a breast examination.

Carol Tromans, Owner of BreastTalk.co.uk says, “The examination we’ve put together should only take around 5 – 10 minutes, is quite thorough, and should be carried out each month.”

The examination is divided into 5 steps:
1. Looking at your breasts in front of a mirror.
2. Looking at your breasts and nipples with hands above your head.
3. Lying on a bed and examining each breast with your fingertips.
4. Checking your breasts with fingertips whilst standing with an arm
above your head.
5. A thorough inspection of your nipples.

Carol explains, “ The important thing to look for when performing a self
examination is any changes to the breasts. We provide a simple Examination Diary Sheet for download on our website so any changes can be noted.”

Important changes to look for include: Size – Changes in the size of one of the breasts or if one breast starts to hang lower than the other. Nipples – Look for changes in the nipples shape and size. Also look for any rashes or discharge. Skin Changes – Look for dimpling or puckering of the skin and also any changes in colour. Swelling – Look for any swelling under the armpits or around the collarbone. Pain – If you develop continuous pain in a breast consult your GP. Lumps – Look for any lumps or thickening of the breast tissue or any changes in the feel of your breast. If you want to read more about this examination then visit www.breasttalk.co.uk The instructions and an examination diary are also available as a download.

UK women with family history of breast cancer to be offered free MRI scans

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London: UK women with a family history of breast cancer are to be offered free MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans from the state health service, the NHS.

Currently, women who have lost close family members to the disease can undergo a genetic test to see if they carry genes that greatly increase their likelihood of developing the cancer.

If they test positive for the faulty versions of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes they are able at the age of 40 onwards, to have an annual mammograms, an X-ray scan to detect the disease.

Now carriers of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes – will be given scans from the age of 30. The tests, which use magnetic waves rather than X-rays, are twice as effective at detecting breast tumours in younger women.

Studies have yet to show if MRI scans are also better at picking up tumours in older women.

GPs will assess eligibility for MRI scanning, which will start within three months.

Refined cereals linked to kidney cancer

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Milan: Refined foods such as bread increase the risk of kidney cancer, according to new reaserach from Milan’s Institute of Pharmacological Research.

People who eat five slices of bread each day, for example, are nearly twice as likely to develop the disease compared to those who eat 1.5 slices.

The elevated risk is caused by an increase in blood sugar and insulin as a result of eating refined cereals which result in the growth of cancer cells. The researchers, whose work is reported in the International Journal of Cancer, recommend replacing refined cereals with whole cereals.

The researchers studied more than 2,300 Italians – 767 who had the disease and 1,534 who did not – and asked them detailed information about their diet over the previous two years.

The scientists found a clear link between eating lots of bread and the risk of getting the cancer.

Overall those in the group that ate the most bread – equivalent to 35 slices weekly or five a day – were almost twice as likely to develop the cancer as those who had just 11 slices a week – around one and a half a day.

In contrast, those who ate a high proportion of poultry, meat and vegetables had a lower risk of getting the kidney cancer.

The study did not establish exactly what in bread may be to blame, however the researchers believe it may be linked to the high Glycaemic Index of many types.

Foods with a high GI cause a draondmatic rise in blood sugar levels which leads to the release of insulin and in turn chemicals that can fuel cell growth.

The theory is that cancer cells use these chemicals and the glucose to fuel their own unchecked, and therefore dangerous, growth.

Past studies have also found women who follow a low GI diet after the menopause have a lower risk of breast cancer than those who have lots of high GI foods.

The diet is also advised for people with diabetes to help prevent peaks and troughs in blood sugar levels.

Lead researcher Dr Francesca Bravi said her study suggested a diet with fewer cereals and more vegetables may help reduce the risk of renal cell carcinoma.

‘On the basis of the study we can also suggest reducing the consumption of refined cereals and increase that of wholegrain ones’ she added.

Instant mole screening with MoleMate

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London: MoleMate, a non-invasive and pain-free melanoma screening device, will enable General Practitioners and skin specialists to scan and evaluate suspicious lesions within seconds and make instant clinical decisions ‘on the spot’.

The handheld device which has been developed by Cambridge, UK-based Astron Clinica, utilises the clinically proven Hunter Scoring System, along with an easy-to-use decision support system, to provide clear guidelines on how to assess a suspect mole against a database of examples.

MoleMate will make it possible for doctors to identify the best course of action for an unusual mole – whether it be to refer, excise or provide reassurance – during the first consultation with a patient.

MoleMate features a magnified dermoscopic view for those medical professionals familiar with dermoscopy and also the complete SIAscopy imaging suite: haemoglobin, melanin, dermal melanin and collagen up to 2mm beneath the surface of the skin.

‘Working with dermatologists in the UK for years, it became very clear that many innocent moles were being referred, causing a great deal of stress and worry to the patient, increased spending costs for the NHS through unnecessary excisions, and a reduction in the amount of time dermatologists had available for treating confirmed melanoma patients. We decided to develop a new system specifically for GP practices that would give them access to the same technology that many dermatologists were using to scan suspicious moles so that they can offer a screening service in situ.

MoleMate is the answer,’ says Annie Brooking, CEO, Astron Clinica. Melanoma, one of the most treatable of cancers if caught in time, kills over 1,700 people in the UK needlessly every year. Increasing awareness among the general public, driven by Cancer Research’s annual SunSmart campaign, has led to a significant increase in referrals of suspect moles to dermatologists. MoleMate scans could significantly increase the number of melanomas referred early, providing Primary Care Trusts and GP practices with greater budget flexibility for the treatment of positive melanoma lesions.

At the same time, MoleMate could provide an invaluable role in reassuring and advising patients on the best course of action following an instant scan, rather than having to wait for an appointment with a dermatology consultant or for the results of an excision.

“MoleMate is clear and simple to use”, said Dr. Rob Howlett, a General Practitioner in Thaxted, Cambridge. “It produces high quality images to aid in clinical diagnosis and also provides great reassurance to patients. My patients loved it!”

MoleMate consists of a hand held scanner and software that uses SIAscopy, Astron Clinica’s patented skin imaging technology that scans and visualises haemoglobin, melanin, dermal melanin and collagen up to 2mm beneath the surface of the skin.

The Hunter Scoring System, developed by Miss Jude Hunter in conjunction with GP practices and Cambridge University Teaching hospital, aids the detection of many types of suspicious lesions during the early stages of their development. MoleMate produces a patient report that includes the patient’s SIAscans together with data required for referral, or for the patient to take home. SIAscopy, developed by Astron Clinica, is used by skin specialists and medical professionals including GPs. Astron Clinica’s products quantify and manage skin health and skin conditions and assist specialists to identify a variety of skin cancers.

Astron Clinica, based in Cambridge UK, designs, develops and brings to market its skin imaging products that incorporates its proprietary skin imaging technology SIAscopy, further information available at www.astronclinica.com

SIAscopy uniquely enables medical, pharmaceutical and cosmetics industry professionals to visualise up to 2mm beneath the surface of the skin using both a proprietary hand held scanner and an off-the-shelf digital camera. Astron Clinica’s customers include dermatologists, plastic surgeons, GPs and aesthetic medicine practitioners.

Free special report on prostate cancer – detection and treatment

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Johns Hopkins Health Alerts, the consumer health information website published by University Health Publishing in conjunction with Johns Hopkins Medicine, today released an important new Special Report on treating and preventing prostate cancer.

The special report stresses that early detection and treatment are keys to defeat prostate cancer, and also outlines strategies for prostate cancer prevention, and dealing with prostate cancer’s most common side effects, including erectile dysfunction.

Who is at risk for prostate cancer? Every man. The risk increases with age. Men over 50, African-American men, and men with family medical histories of prostate cancer face the greatest threat. Regular testing is crucial.

Even if a person does not fall into any of these risk categories, education is their best weapon. The special arms people with clear, practical advice on what they can do to prevent prostate cancer.

The free special report 7 Keys to Treating Prostate Cancer explains the process of screening and detection, and discusses the treatment options available should the diagnosis prove to be prostate cancer.

The seven keys include:

1-Understand Your Prostate Biopsy

2-Get a Second (and Third or Fourth) Opinion

3-Choose the Right Treatment

4-Dealing with Erectile Dysfunction

5-Seek Extra Help-If Needed

6-Understand the Role of Diet

7-Consider Complementary Techniques

The author, Dr. Jacek L. Mostwin, is one of the leading surgeons at Johns Hopkins’ James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute, ranked #1 in America for 16 consecutive years.

Dr. Mostwin clearly guides the reader through the diagnostic tools and innovative treatments for prostate cancer so that anyone concerned about it or suffering from it can make the best decisions about their medical care, to try to insure the best outcome.

The progress Dr. Mostwin and his fellow specialists have made in the battle against prostate cancer is remarkable, yet much more can be done to prevent this disease.

Anyone wishing to receive this free information can download this invaluable special report for free at www.hopkinsreports.com/prostate

The Johns Hopkins Special Reports website is produced by University Health Publishing, which has been publishing health-related information for people over 50 since 1988 through the monthly newsletter *Johns Hopkins Medical Letter: /Health After 50/* and the Johns Hopkins White Papers.

New gene link to breast cancer

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London: A gene that puts women at an increased risk of developing breast cancer has been discovered by scientists.

They have identified that a faulty version of the BRIP1 gene means that those with it are twice as likely to develop the disease.

Other faulty genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 have already been linked with an increased risk. Those who carry these faulty genes have an 85 per cent risk of developing breast cancer and a 40 per cent risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Researchers from The Institute of Cancer Research in London decided to look at faults in the BRIP1 gene because it interacts with the known cancer-causing gene BRCA1.

According to the scientists, carrying a faulty version of BRIP1 doubles a woman’s risk of the disease – taking it from one in 12 to around one in six by the age of 70.

Liquorice trials in prostate cancer

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New York: Men with prostate cancer are taking part in a medical trial to see whether liquorice has the power to help stop tumour growth.

Around 50 men are taking part in the trial in which they will take dailycapsules along with other medication as part of the research at the Cancer Institute of New Jersey.

Phytonutrients have already been shown to be powerful antioxidants in the body and it is thought that liquorice acts in a similar way.

Prostate Cancer Now

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Prostate Cancer Now is a web site offering the lastest information and advice on humane therapies – www.prostatecancernow.org

Heavy industry link to lung cancer

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Newcastle: Living close to heavy industry may increase the risk of developing lung cancer, says a report published in the UK by the University of Newcastle.

Over 200 women under the age of 80 with primary lung cancer were compared with 339 healthy women matched for age and sex in Teeside, north east England.

Rates of lung cancer among women are high in this particular area of England, where heavy industry expanded rapidly throughout the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, and where poverty and deprivation are common.

By 1945, Billingham on Teeside was the larges single chemical production complex in the world, and houses for the workforce were built as close as possible to the industrial sites.

All the study participants were interviewed at length about their lives, including full histories of where they had lived, their employment, as well as their smoking habits, and exposure to second hand smoke.

The distances from heavy industry sites were grouped into three zones: less than 5 km (zone A) away; 5 to 10 km away (Zone B); and more than 10 km away (Zone C) .

The average length of time that all participants had lived in the area was over 55 years.

After taking account of smoking and other factors likely to influence the results, the data showed that women who had lived in zone A for more than 25 years were almost twice as likely to develop lung cancer as those who had not lived there.

The findings are broadly consistent with those of other studies, say the authors, who suggest that the impact of air pollution on the development of lung cancer warrants further study.

Diet for your age and gender, say food scientists

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London: A healthy diet is eating the right food for your age and gender.That is the advice from one of the UK’s leading food scientists, Dr Sian Astley, who belives that in the future food will be formulated for different ages and sexes.

She said the same diet is not for everyone that the sensible approach is best. Young women, for example, who those hoping to become pregnant should eat foods with folic acid such as green leafy vegtables, asparagas, citrus fruit, wholemeal breads and cereals. This form of vitamin B helps prevent defects such as brain and spinal impairments.
At the samt time they should also have an adequate intake of iron, as many women of child-bearing age do not eat enough red meat.

But as people age the body’s food requirements change. Busy people and mothers need to keep energy levels up therefore its wise to eat complex carbohydrates to provide a slow steady release of energy.

And in old age we need to prevent some of the common diseases such as osteoporosis and Alzheimer’s by eating calcium rich goods, vitamin B and plenty of oily fish.

Dr Astley, of the Institute of Food Research in Norwich speaking at the British Association Festival of Science, said: ‘The way we process vitamin B, for example, changes dramatically as we reach old age. Our body can still process it but really struggles to extract it from the food we eat. There might be an argument for a fortified food or there may be a reason for taking a supplement.’

Men becoming increasingly at risk of prostate cancer as they age so they should boost their intake of anti-oxidants that boost the immune system such as tomatoes.These foods may also help women who may be at risk from herediary cancers.

This new study is the latest to support the growing body of evidence that eating healthily is the biggest contributor to longevity.

Comments Dr Astley: “As we get older, our bodies are less effective at avoiding disease; our immune systems are less able to detect and mount a defence. This results in an increased risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cataract and arthritis.

‘Poor diet can accelerate this process whilst 80 per cent of casecontrolled studies support the hypothesis that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can reduce the risk of age-related illness.’ She cautioned-however, that there is no guarantee that even the healthiest of diets will be able to ward off illness.

For instance, cereal manufacturers may provide versions fortified with particular age-groups or sexes in mind. ‘We are not expecting 500 types of Weetabix for every type of person, but perhaps five that are formulated differently for different types of diet or age,’ said Dr Astley.