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Prostate Cancer Stages
Breast Cancer in the Family: What It Means
Breast Cancer in the Family: What It Means
After a Prostate Cancer Diagnosis
Have a Conversation With Your Family
First, you must discover all you can about your family tree. This could include an open to discuss the family tree with all family members, particularly those who are women.
“Often in families, women are the keepers of stories and will know the family history,” says Allison Werner-Lin, PhD. associate professor of Penn Medicine’s School of Social Policy and Practice in Philadelphia who is a specialist in the hereditary cancer.
“They may communicate this to their daughters rather than their sons, but it’s important to open the door so that everyone knows the family history and is open about risk,” she adds.
Relay This Information to Your Doctor
It is crucial that men communicate the information they’ve learned as well as any previous history of ovarian or breast cancer to their doctors. Knowing the family history of these illnesses can assist your doctor provide advice on your risk and next steps to take, Brander states.
See a Genetic Counselor
If you have any history of the ovarian or breast cancer within your family Your doctor is likely to refer you to a genetic counselor in order to examine your risk further, and the counselor may organize for you to undergo genetic tests done.
You can also locate an expert in genetic counseling by visiting the National Society of Genetic Counselors site. Brander suggests the Find a Genetic Counselor tool that can assist you to locate a counselor close to you.
Following your tests for genetics and are determined to be carrying BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation, you’ll most likely start the prostate cancer tests with your physician. This could include routine prostate-specific antigen testing and digital rectal examinations. Although men typically undergo this procedure between 45 to 50 years old however, those who have been confirmed positive for BRCA mutation could begin this process earlier, starting at age forty, Brander says.
Manage Your Risk
There is no way to completely get rid of from a cancer diagnosed all by itself, but studies suggest actions you can make to reduce the risk of getting cancer. It is recommended that you Mayo Clinic recommends eating a balanced, low-fat diet that includes more vegetables and fruits and avoiding dairy, with at minimum 30 minutes of exercise regular exercise every day throughout the day. Research indicate that more frequent Ejaculation could reduce your risk of being diagnosed.
Although the lifetime prostate cancer risks are quite high and rise with age for BRCA mutation carriers there’s an underlying conviction that hereditary cancers tend to be only a problem for women according to Dr. Werner-Lin states. “As many men traverse genetic counseling and come to terms with their risk, they may find that lots of the messaging isn’t about them — it’s about them protecting their daughters,” she says.
It is important to keep the lines of communication openespecially with your parents and sons brothers, as well as other males in your family. You should also continue in discussing your health background. “Part of what’s important is for men to have permission to focus on their own risk,” Werner-Lin explains. “Your risk may be lower than your sister’s and mother’s and daughter’s, but it’s okay for you — in concert with the rest of the family — to claim the space to care for yourself, too.”
Standing Up for Better Lung Cancer Care
The couple immediately went to the nearest hospital and, following some tests such as lung scans, were given the devastating report that Pearsall was diagnosed with the stage of 3A non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) -the most frequent kind of lung cancer in the United States, accounting for around 85 percent of cases.
NSCLC is the uncontrolled development of cancerous cells in the lung tissue which can cause tumors and expand to other parts of the body, eventually becoming life-threatening. The estimated number of men who could become diagnosed as having lung cancer this year in accordance with the American Cancer Society.
“The doctor stood by my bed, and told me, in front of my kids, that I had cancer and that I was going to die,” Pearsall is a machine operator located in New Haven, Connecticut, recalls. “When I asked him what he meant by that, he said, ‘Everybody has to die.’ I started yelling — I was so upset.”
Then, Pearsall was informed that he’d need surgery to remove the tumor.
“My wife is a nurse’s aide and she got very upset at that point,” Pearsall states. “She thought we should get a second opinion.”
Then, a few days later they spoke to Anne Chiang, MD PhD who is an Yale doctor who is a part of the Thoracic Oncology group located at the Yale Smilow Cancer Hospital in New Haven. In the Yale’s Interventional Oncology program, Dr. Chiang suggested Pearsall consider an alternative to surgery. This could be the following six weeks of getting a combination of chemotherapy and radiation.
Pearsall accepted and began his treatment. He suffered from severe fatigue and hair loss but had no long-lasting adverse effects, other than scar tissue and a little anxiety. He completed his treatment in January of 2015 and is in remission ever since.
“If you met me today, you would never believe I had cancer,” the doctor states. “I go for scans every year, and seeing Chiang gives me comfort even though she told me I don’t need to see her anymore.”
What’s changed is that since Pearsall’s diagnosis Pearsall became an advocate, encouraging people to raise the issue of the cancer and to campaign for better health care.
Here’s what Chiang and Chiang would like readers to be aware of playing an active part within getting your cancer treatment and how you can participate in the treatment plan you have created.
Pearsall’s Advice
No. 1: Push for the Right Treatment Course
Pearsall claims that it was wife that made him think twice about having surgery and to talk with a different doctor regarding your cancer treatments. “I would have gone ahead and had the surgery,” Pearsall declares. “Luckily, she was there to push me to get a second opinion.”
#2: Be Open About Your Diagnosis
Within his circle, Pearsall avoided talking about his cancer. However, that’s gradually changing. Also, he found it beneficial to attend support group meetings to talk about his experiences with fellow cancer patients. “I say you have to be open about it,” the doctor declares. “I look at all the ads of St. Jude’s and I can see how resilient those children are. I’ll never forget watching children coming out of chemotherapy while I was having my own. This gave me confidence. It is important to let people know that you are not alone and that you are able to overcome it.”
No. 3: Be There for Others
Pearsall is always willing to offer suggestions and advice for managing the effects of cancer treatment. “If someone asks me what cancer treatment is like I tell them how much it helped that my wife made me homemade chicken soup and I remind them that they have to make sure to drink Ensure to get the vitamins and minerals they need,” Pearsall states. He also reminds people that if they have a loved one who has cancer and they love them, they shouldn’t behave or treat the person differently. “Love them just the way they are.”
Dr. Chiang’s Advice
No. 1: Surgery Isn’t Always Better
While some patients may believe that surgery is the most effective alternative if a tumor has been discovered, this isn’t always the scenario. A treatment plan that includes radiation, chemotherapy or both could be more efficient. “There’s a lot of education that we try to do around this,” she states. “Taking it [the tumor] out isn’t always the answer.”
No. 2: Make Sure You Understand Your Options
Your doctor will clearly explain the treatment suggested to you, says Chiang. They must also inform you about the possibility of a clinical trial, in case it’s available. “I feel strongly that you don’t have to understand cell physiology or drug pharmacology, but it’s important that patients understand what their options are and why your doctor favors one over the other,” she declares. “If you understand your treatment course you will be better able to participate in your care and ask the right questions.”
No. 3: Find an Advocate
Like Pearsall the majority of people turn on a family member to act as an advocate. You can, however, select a person to accompany you to appointments. “This person should be a second pair of ears who asks questions for you,” she adds. This person could also relay details for the cancer patient as well and, if required it is recommended that there be an interpreter for the language within the room. “We’re very aware of how important it is to engage and talk to family members — not just treat the patient but to offer the broadest support possible,” she says.
Tests to Diagnose Prostate Cancer
A Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) Test
A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is an blood test that could be given to you for routine screening as part of the routine checkup of the doctor of primary care or urologist.
However, using the test to screen routinely is not without controversy. A high-level of results from PSA tests PSA test could be due to reasons that are not related to cancer like an an enlarged prostate, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or an infection of the prostate known as prostatitis. The patients who experience an elevated PSA result could be referred to further testing. This is why the test should be conducted after a thorough discussion with the doctor and patient.
The American Cancer Society uses these criteria to assess PSA results:
- A PSA test result that is below the threshold of 4 nanograms per milliliter (ng/ml) signifies that, 85 percent of the time you aren’t likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer.
- A PSA between 4-10 is associated with one in four chance of developing prostate cancer.
- If your PSA is higher than 10, you are at risk. one in two possibility of developing prostate cancer.
However, doctors have not yet established a standard system for interpret PSA. The thresholds for concern and reference ranges differ greatly.
In the event that the PSA tests results show high, it’s likely you’ll be advised to repeat the tests.
A Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)
A digital rectal examination (DRE) is an examination of your prostate performed by a doctor as part of a routine checkup or as a reaction to symptoms suggesting problems with the prostate gland. When you undergo an DRE the doctor inserts an ungloved finger inside the rectum to look for nodules or areas that are asymmetric as well as irregularities in the shape, size and appearance in the prostate gland and may also be used to search for indications of prostate cancer.
As with similar to the PSA test, the results of a suspicious test on DRE results DRE does not necessarily indicate that you are suffering from prostate cancer. Instead, the results are taken into consideration in conjunction along with PSA Test results as well as any symptoms the patient might be suffering from.
Recently, there has been a lot of concern regarding primary care doctors who are unable to use the DRE efficiently. A study that was that was published in Annals of Family Medicine discovered that only half of the primary care physicians surveyed are comfortable with performing DREs. In fact the authors of the study advised against doctors who are primary care practitioners performing these tests.
Transrectal Ultrasound and Real-Time Biopsy
If you have the result of an increased PSA result or notice abnormal results from the DRE medical professional may suggest undergoing an ultrasound biopsy of your prostate. The most commonly used test to determine this is a transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) which is a procedure in which an ultrasound probe is placed into the rectum, and sound waves are created to form an image of your prostate.
When an ultrasound is performed biopsy, samples are typically taken from various locations of the prostate with the use of a hollow needle. This is known as real-time or Transrectal Prostate biopsy. The biopsy samples are evaluated in a pathology laboratory to determine if cancer cell lines are found.
Benefits of combining two methods are:
- The ability to target the suspicious regions of high grade (aggressive regions) and tumors that are clinically significant.
- Assisting in the prevention of false-positive diagnosis and overdiagnosis, or sampling areas that are not likely to be contaminated with cancer or more aggressive cancer.
- The best biopsy is one that is high-quality.
MRI Ultrasound Targeted Prostate Biopsy
The magnetic resonance image ( MRI) guided biopsies are also being utilized more often, in conjunction in conjunction with ultrasound, or on their own for guidance during the procedure of a prostate biopsy. MRI scans have the capability of revealing areas that could be cancerous with greater precision than ultrasound scans.
Research has suggested that the combination of the two techniques by using MRI to determine problematic areas prior to transrectal ultrasound and biopsy may help to detect cancer more precisely than a single TRUS biopsy. A case in point is a landmark study conducted by researchers from the National Cancer Institute’s urologic oncology division discovered that the MRI-fused method detected the more aggressive prostate cancer and less prostate cancers with low risk.
A joint statement from the American Urological Association and Society of Abdominal Radiologists recommends the use of MRI-fusion for those who are under active surveillance men who, with their doctors, have chosen to monitor the growth of a slow-growing cancer instead of treating it with aggressive treatment. It is also recommended for those who have had an elevated PSA test results, however, their previous biopsies have not been positive for cancer.
Preparing for Your Prostate Biopsy
In order to prepare yourself for the procedure Your urologist should inform you about the potential risks and advantages of having an ultrasound. The most frequent complications that occur following prostate biopsy include urine that is bloody semen, rectum or an urine tract infection and the acute retention of urine. These complications usually disappear quickly. Infrequently, erectile dysfunction is a possibility.
After this conversation with your doctor After this discussion, you will be required to fill out a consent forms. It is also possible to be asked to quit certain medicines, including anticoagulants, anti-inflammatory nonsteroidal drugs or herbal supplements and vitamins for a period of one to several days. The night prior to when the biopsy will be scheduled the doctor might ask you to perform an enema at your home. The day before, eating a light diet is generally suggested. Also, you may be asked to consume some antibiotic on the day prior or when you take the test.
If you are scheduled to undergo the procedure, you are asked to lie on your back and bend your knees. The doctor will place a small probe of the size of a finger inside the rectum. The probe allows the doctor look at pictures of the prostate. It also assists in determining where to inject local anesthetic. The images that the doctor observes can also guide the needle for biopsy. The doctor will collect 10 to 18 tissue samples from your prostate gland. These is then taken to a pathology lab. The entire process takes around 10 minutes. The doctor will notify you of results in the course of about one week.
Following this procedure, the rectum could be a bit sore. You might notice tiny quantities that contain blood within your urine, stool or semen which can persist for several days or even weeks. The prescription of antibiotics may be for a few days to avoid the spread of infection.
Making Sense of Prostate Biopsy Results
If your biopsy shows that certain cells are unusual, however they may or might not be cancer or cancerous, your doctor may recommend a second biopsy. If your biopsy is positive, that means cancer cells were identified.
The pathology report you receive will contain:
- A Gleason score that aids doctors in predicting how rapidly growing prostate cancer is
- The number of samples from biopsy which contain cancer from the total sampled
- A diagnosis for each biopsy or core sample
- The proportion of cancer in every sample
- It is not clear if the cancer is located on either or both sides of the prostate gland
Understanding Your Gleason Score
You Gleason score is the total of all “grades” the pathologist has given the samples of the prostate gland. The more difficult the cancer appears, the higher the severity. The most minimal Gleason score you could receive for prostate cancer is a 6. The cancers are regarded as low-grade and are not likely to be very aggressive. A Gleason score of 8-10 will be more aggressive. It is also likely to spread and grow rapidly. A cancer that has an Gleason score of 9-10 is likely to be more active.
Steps to Take After a Prostate Cancer Diagnosis
Steps to Take After a Prostate Cancer Diagnosis
The diagnose from prostate cancer could be relatively new and you’re not certain of what’s going on or how to get assistance. That’s normal. Whatever your situation you’re going through, it’s a good odds that you’re not alone. Many people experience a mixture of confusion, surprise, and fear , in addition to other emotionswhen they learn they’ve been diagnosed with cancer.
You can make certain of: The next steps following the diagnosis will affect your outlook or how you’ll be coping in the fight against prostate cancer as time passes.
“It’s important to remember not to panic,” says Steven E. Canfield, MD, the chief of urology at the McGovern Medical School located at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) and The Memorial Hermann Texas Medical Center. Make sure you get all the information you require and talk with all the people you’ll need, says.
Although you might know people who were able to (or did not) perform well following having a prostate cancer diagnosis take note that your circumstances could be totally different.
“Prostate cancer represents a spectrum of disease,” says Peter Carroll, MD MPH Professor and Chairman for the department of Urology of the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). “Not all [ prostate cancers] are the same, and not all need the same type of treatment.”
He recommends “not to rush to a decision regarding treatment” and states”that “very, very few prostate cancers require urgent treatment.”
1. Ask These Key Questions About Your Cancer
The first step is to become informed. Doctor. Carroll recommends seeking multidisciplinary opinions from experts.
When speaking with your doctor when you visit your doctor, it’s a great idea to bring a few other people present along with you. Families and friends can be part of an emotional support system that is often useful, Carroll explains, since “people hear different things and tend to ask different questions.”
Doctor. Canfield adds that taking notes when looking over information found on the internet is important as “you are going to see so many things that may or may not apply to your specific cancer; it’s so common to forget what you were going to ask the doctor.”
For a start, Carroll suggests the following questions that can aid you in getting to the core of your problem.
- How serious is the cancer? In most instances prostate cancer develops slowly. However certain men might have more aggressive types. There are a variety of methods to determine this. Your doctor might make use of the Gleason score which, according to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, is an average of two scores that vary between 2 and 10 and 10, being considered the least difficult. The majority of patients diagnosed by prostate cancer are diagnosed with prostate cancer and have scores that is between 7 and 6. Another method to assess the aggressiveness for prostate cancer can be measured using that of Cancer of the Prostate Risk Assessment (CAPRA) score that was created at UCSF.
- Do I need an additional scan? The tests and procedures that are that are designed to pinpoint precisely where cancer is located in your body are becoming more precise and sophisticated in diagnosing cancer. These comprise Magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI), computed tomography (CT) and the positron electronic tomography (PET). Canfield states that “it’s important to be diagnosed somewhere that has access to the newest technology in imaging.” He declares that MRI combination biopsy is among the most advanced techniques doctors use to detect cancer significantly more precisely.
- Do I need to consider having my tumor evaluated by using customized medical treatment? Also referred to as genomic profiling or genomic testing the concept of personalized medicine is a relatively new method that allows cancer specialists to create an individual plan of cancer treatments that is based on prostate cancer cells that are analyzed in the procedure of a biopsy. Knowing the specific characteristics of cancer cells can aid in knowing the way your prostate cancer particularly might respond to various treatment options.
Other tools can also be used to determine your disease and aid in predicting probable outcomes of various treatments. For instance the prostate cancer predictors, referred to as nomograms, can be found via institutions such as the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Institute located in New York City.
2. Consider All Your Treatment Options
The most important question to ask, suggests Carrol The most important question to ask would be “Do I need to be treated?” Between 20-40 per cent of all prostate cancers that are discovered in today’s men are non-indolent (cause very little or any discomfort) Carrol states, and they will develop slowly or not change in any way in comparison to where they are currently.
For many men, a method known as “active surveillance” in place of treatment immediately is a very secure and tested alternative. This is a viable alternative if the cancer is not spreading and you are over 50 years old as well as if your Gleason score is not very high. According to the Prostate Cancer Foundation points out that this method of treatment is not a substitute for being inactive. Many follow-up procedures are part of active surveillance when it is done properly and safely.
If you are in need of medical attention beyond that of the scope of active monitoring, Carroll advises that you speak to your doctor:
- What do I need to know about my options for treatment? my options for treatment?
- If I’m diagnosed, what should I anticipate in terms of treatment, survival and adverse negative side effects? Carroll says that all treatments come with negative side effects, and that you must be aware of these before deciding on the best treatment method.
- What experience do you have with these treatment options?
- In your personal experience What is your opinion on how men like me performed in relation to the outcomes that were discussed? What are your thoughts on the results?
3. Get a Second Opinion
Consult your doctor for recommendations on other physicians or clinics you could visit for a second opinion. If your doctor isn’t willing to listen, Carroll says, you need to find a different doctor that you can locate at local clinics, hospitals as well as cancer centers, or by contacting sources such as The American Medical Association and the American Society of Clinical Oncology.
The prostate cancer patients who suffer from cancer might be treated too much or not treated, Carroll says. Particularly, those who have advanced prostate cancer aren’t receiving adequate treatment, while some patients with local disease are treated too often. Learn more about the disease, and seek as many opinions and inputs as you require.
4. Find a Doctor You Like
Find the urologist you’re at ease with. “Believe it or not, you’re going to be seeing your urologist for a long time,” Canfield says. Canfield, “so you should choose someone who is an ideal one for you. You must like the person. You should be able to trust them and trust that they will be there to support you in any situation.”
It’s not a guarantee He says, “but at least you can rely on the fact that your doctor will be available and there to care for you — no matter what.”
5. Make Smart Lifestyle Moves
A balanced diet regularly exercising and weight management are crucial to keep you healthy during menopausal cancer treatment as well as preventing other ailments which can be a result of ageing.
Another way to think about the issue, according to Canfield The other approach can be it is that diet and exercise boost the immune system and prostate cancer appears to be slightly affected by this immune system. An active lifestyle can certainly hinder your treatment and could be beneficial.
Below are some particular diet suggestions from the UCSF:
- Consume a wide variety of vegetables that include cooked tomatoes (which have the antioxidant lycopene) as well as cruciferous veggies like cabbage and broccoli. certain studies suggest could reduce the chance for developing prostate cancer.
- Avoid eating processed meats and poultry. Instead, opt for healthier sources of protein such as salmon and other fish that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
- Concentrate on healthy fats. Instead of frying food items or saturated fat opt for nuts, olive oil as well as other sources of vegetable fats.
- Get ample calcium from low-fat sources like skimmilk and vegetables such as the kale as well as spinach as well as high-quality foods such as whole-grain cereals, soy or nut milks.
In addition to the food you eat, try to do intense physical activity for minimum 30 minutes every day when you’re able to do so, keep an appropriate weight and do not smoke.
Prostate Cancer Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment
Prostate Cancer Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment
How Important Is the Prostate Gland?
Prostate glands are a part of reproductive systems. It plays a significant role in both erectile and urinary function. It is important in erectile function and urinary functions. prostate gland protects the urethra the tube that is responsible for moving semen and urine from the body. It is located under the bladder, and just in the rectum’s front. The gland is usually described as having a walnut-like shape, but as we get older, they tend to get larger.
The fluids produced by the prostate gland combine with sperm to form semen, which is important for reproduction as well as protecting the urinary tract as well as the sperm from infections. If something goes wrong with the prostate gland issues with urination may develop.
How Common Is Prostate Cancer — and Who Is At Risk?
Prostate cancer is most commonly a problem for men aged 55 to 69. There’s a significant disparity between people diagnosed by prostate cancer and those who’s health and life span are impacted due to the disease. American men face an annual risk of 16 percent of getting prostate cancer but just 2.9 percent who die from prostate cancer.
In reality, many prostate cancers are thought to be growing slowly as men die from other causes that prostate cancer. Studies of autopsy confirm this notion, with one study of 19 autopsy studies concluding that there is a significant increase in undiagnosed prostate cancer in people who are as young as 30 and in over 50% of those over 80.
Certain factors increase the risk of developing prostate cancer These include:
Race African-American men are significantly more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer than white men– 203.5 against. 121.9 cancer cases for 100,000 males. Also, they are more than twice as likely white men to die from prostate cancer — 44.1 and. 19.1 mortalities per 100,000.
Family Background A positive family background for prostate cancer is a risk factor in itself.
Obesity Obesity is a different risk factor associated with an increase in the chance of mortality due to prostate cancer and biochemical recurrence among patients with prostate cancer.
PSA Screening for Prostate Cancer: A Controversial History
The background of the significance that the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test to diagnose prostate cancer is a source of controversy.
The prostate-specific antibody (PSA) test for blood was first developed in the latter half of the 1980s and it tests for high amounts of antigen. The presence of elevated levels could be a sign for prostate cancer. The test itself isn’t sufficient to determine prostate cancer and was originally thought of as a signpost for prostate cancer the possibility of recurrence or disease progress. However, doctors soon began using it to aid in cancer examinations across in the United States.
Also, in the 1980s, surgeons in both the United States and Europe perfected the procedure for radical prostatectomy that involves the taking out the prostate gland, as well as any cancer inside it. At first, it appeared to be the ideal scenario: men could undergo a straightforward blood test , and prostate cancers that have not been able to spread beyond this gland might be removed.
As time passed there were issues which were not planned for at the time PSA screening was made available:
- PSA may be increased through infections or other effects to the prostate.
- Biopsies were necessary to prove the existence of cancer however it was difficult to differentiate between cancers that could be aggressive and ones that had a slow growth. The majority of prostate cancers had unnecessarily aggressive treatment.
- The issue of overdiagnosis was raised. Patients were being treatment for prostate cancer even when their cancers were slow-growing and not life-threatening.
- The issue of overtreatment was raised. Radial prostatectomy and radiation therapy typically have negative side negative effects, like sexual, urinary, and bowel disorders. This was especially problematic given that many patients with low-grade prostate cancer might not have required these procedures.
- Doctors began to be concerned that these effects could be affecting men’s lives but not helping them live longer.
Current PSA Screening Recommendations
PSA-based screening is the process of testing healthy men with no symptoms.
In the past, medical societies did not agree on screening guidelines however, following the release of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force Guideline in May 2018, all major medical groups are in agreement with that of American College of Physicians (ACP) as well as ACP, the American Cancer Society (ACS), American Urological Association (AUA) and the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO):
- They also advise men to support them so that they can make an informed decision about screenings which reflect their individual values and preferences.
- Screening routinely is not recommended for men aged between 40 to 54 with normal risk.
- For males between 55 and 69 yearsold, it was the U.S. Preventive Services Task Committee found “with moderate certainty that the net benefit of PSA-based screening … is small for some men, making the decision up to the judgment of the physician and the values of the patient.”
- For men who are 70 years old or over, they advise against routine screening as the risks expected are thought to be greater than the benefits.
- Your doctor should not test you for a condition unless you have expressed an interest in it.
- The discussion on the benefits and drawbacks of screening include the possibility of a familial history of prostate cancer races or other ethnicities, health conditions that impact the overall health and life span, as well as the factors that determine your the risk and benefits.
- If you’re lower than 10 years of time expectancy, screening isn’t advised.
Should Men at Elevated Risk Be Screened More Aggressively?
It may seem reasonable to check for at a younger age for high-risk men or encourage men to lead a healthy way of life to lower their risk of prostate cancer however, these areas aren’t extensively studied. So, doctors’ organizations advocate additional research and individualizing the decision regarding whether or not to undergo a screening. In addition, several leading organizations have issued guidelines for screening, such as:
- The American Urological AssociationThe AUA suggests individualizing decision-making for males less than 55 years old who are at risk due to the fact that their race or ethnicity is african-american or has an ancestral history of positive.
- The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force The USPSTF mostly agrees with AUA’s position. Its 2019 recommendations have been formulated based on the AUA’s evidence-based review.
- The American Cancer Society The ACS takes this step further by urging discussions about screening to begin earlier for African-American men as well as those with relatives of the first degree who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
What You Should Know About Skin Cancer
What You Should Know About Skin Cancer
The skin cancers of Squamous cells are cancerous, nonmelanoma tumors that originate from a specific type of skin cell that is located within the middle and outer parts of your skin. Following basal cell carcinoma, SCC is the second most frequently diagnosed skin cancer as per the Skin Cancer Foundation. It’s usually caused by over radiation to UV (UV) radiation.
Squamous cells cancer is highly curable provided it is diagnosed and treated immediately. Nearly 2,000 people across the United States die each year from squamous and basal cell cancers, according to according to the American Cancer Society publishes.
“If left untreated, squamous cell cancer can become locally invasive, aggressive, and destructive to the skin and nearby tissue,” states Farah Succaria MD of the department of dermatology, assistant professor at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore. In the same way, it could grow (spread) in the body and result in significant and possibly fatal damage.
What Makes SCC Different in Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Additionally, SCC is most often caused by excessive sunlight exposure. This could be the case for those with HS who are diagnosed with SCC on areas of the skin that aren’t usually hidden in folds of skin or in clothes. Other factors can be involved in the way Squamous cell cancer develops and develops when it’s related to HS.
Most important is the inflammation that may cause any kind of cancer more difficult, according to Luis Andres Garza, MD Dr. Professor of dermatology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore. The inflammation that occurs in the body as a result of HS could be a factor in the higher risk of developing the skin cancer squamous cells cancer Garza says.
The treatment of HS can increase the likelihood of SCC. Certain HS treatments reduce your immune system such as that is associated with an increased chance for developing cancer as per doctor. Garza. A study that looked at this, for instance, identified that immune suppression is a risk factor that is associated with poorer outcomes for those suffering from the cutaneous (skin) Squamous Cell Carcinoma.
Another distinctive characteristic of squamous-cell carcinoma in HS is its location. “HS primarily occurs in places where skin rubs on skin,” claims Rita Pichardo, MD, dermatologist from Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, who manages an HS clinic. “These areas can become continuously inflamed for a long time. It makes specific areas in your body — such as the perianal, vulvar and perineal regions particularly susceptible to develop the skin cancer.”
In reality the review of studies that were published by 2021’s International Journal of Dermatology focused on SCC due to HS and discovered that the most frequently affected places of cancer included the buttocks the perianal area and the genitals.
SCC could also be more likely to spread , and possibly cause death in those with HS than other individuals. In the review of 2021 the study showed that in over half of individuals (mostly male) who had HS, and had squamous cell tumors that the cancer became metastatic. About 40 percent had a recurrence SCC as well as more than fifty percent died due to cancer metastases, as well as sepsis.
Finally, chronic woundsthose that persist that make up HS are essentially and are related to the type of skin cancer which typically develops into squamous cell carcinoma, according to Garza. Also known as Marjolin’s ulcer this rare, dangerous skin cancer is found in scar tissue as well as persistent ulcers and in areas that are affected by inflammation.
Catching SCC Early
Squamous cell cancer can be particularly problematic when it is HS-related, since the lesions that result from both conditions are often like the skin cancer might be overlooked as per an study published by the end of 2020 The latest advances on Skin & Wound Care.
This is why it’s crucial for people suffering from HS to visit an expert in dermatology every six up to twelve months, for complete body cancer examination according to the dermatologist Dr. Pichardo. However, “It can be difficult, even for a doctor, to spot skin cancer just by looking at it,” says Garza, “so we’ll perform a biopsy on anything we find that’s concerning.”
Self-exams in between examinations of your skin are also recommended. Each month, look at your skin using mirrors to look for areas that you aren’t able to see and look for any signs that are unusual or strange, suggests Garza. “Trust your intuition,” Garza adds. “If something looks weird or you’ve never noticed it before, bring it to the attention of your doctor.”
Certain signs to be aware of: “A place on your skin that bleeds by itself is a red flag,” Garza says. Garza. It’s not unusual for people with HS to see the presence of pus from their skin but if it appears that there may have more blood flowing in one part of the skin, that area should be investigated.
Also, within the area of HS lesions getting better with treatment If you notice an area of the bump that isn’t going away or looks odd consult your doctor Garza. Garza.
Tips for Preventing Skin Cancer
There are a variety of simple methods to reduce the chance from skin cancer that is a result of high-risk sexes to a minimal.
Be diagnosed immediately . If you’re suffering from signs of having HS for example, an uncomfortable nodule which appears like a cyst, or a boil that is visible in your armpits or inner thigh the groin area, consult an expert dermatologist immediately. The earlier you begin treatment and the less inflammation you’ll feel in the course of time.
Make sure you follow your management plan to the letter. “There are no studies that show with certainty whether or not managing HS well can reduce associated skin cancer risk, but it’s probably the case,” Garza says. Garza.
Avoid sunburn . This is done by staying out of direct sunlight whenever possible wearing sunglasses and an hat with a brim, and applying sunblock on skin that is exposed (but not on lesions on the HS that are hidden or covered) even on days with cloudy skies.
The most important thing, says Garza, “If you have HS, it’s important to be aware of your skin cancer chance so you’re vigilant and visit your dermatologist frequently, however, I would suggest paying attention to general health. This includes controlling your disease and adhering to an appropriate diet and a healthy lifestyle overall.”
Myths About Prostate Cancer
Myths About Prostate Cancer
If you’re uncertain about prostate cancer it’s not a problem. Learn the truth about common myths. The truth could save your life.
Learn the Facts About Prostate Cancer
“Most people don’t think prostate cancer is going to happen to them, unless their father or brother had it,” says Oliver Sartor, MD who is a professor of urology and medicine of Tulane University. Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans.
In reality, since around 268,000 males in the United States will be diagnosed with the disease in 2022, as per the American Cancer Society (ACS) the odds are for you to know someone who could be affected. Prostate cancer is the second most common cause of death due to cancer in American males, just ahead of the lung cancer.
Although it’s a gruelling disease that can kill people, most men do not die of it. In fact the ACS states that more than 2.9 million Americans who have received a diagnosed as having prostate cancer are living today.
Despite this fact, misinformation and confusion are commonplace in the process of knowing your personal risk level, and what to do if your doctor states that you have prostate cancer.
“The diagnosis [of prostate cancer] almost always hits people out of the blue,” Dr. Sartor says. “It’s not what you planned on, and, of course, it’s extremely disruptive. For many men who suffer from prostate cancer, cancer can cause an overall mental dissonance What’s the matter with me? What could I have done wrong? What should I take to fix it in the event to ensure that my personal life doesn’t end up threatened?”
When it comes to discussing prostate cancer the emotions of men are often triggered. “What I see all the time,” Sartor says, “is people overestimating the timeframes for prostate cancer. There are some very terrible cancers however, I’m not saying that prostate cancer cannot be a threat. But , it’s not common for people to make distinctions on how their prognosis will be when compared to other people who has the “big C. There’s a certain signs of imminent doom that some patients might experience and this could be the case.”
I hope we can make people realize that prostate cancer isn’t an end-of-life sentence for the majority of us Sartor states. The majority of men die from prostate cancer and not from prostate cancer. One method to clear things up — dispel the myths and fight prostate cancer according to him is to find out more about the nature of prostate cancer is and how it’s treated and who’s at risk of it.
Myth: Prostate Cancer Is for Older Men
Fact It’s certain that most those diagnosed as having prostate cancer are older, it is possible to (and can) affect younger men too. Around 40 percent of cases happen in men older than 65, according to ACS. “It’s not uncommon at all for men in their fifties and some in their forties to have prostate cancer,” says Sartor. (It’s uncommon in males older than 40, however.)
The age at which you must begin getting regular screenings for prostate cancer remains a matter of controversy and uncertainty. It’s best to start talking with the doctor regarding PSA (prostate-specific antigen) screening once you’re over 50 years old as the ACS suggests. The only exception is when you have a family history of prostate disease occurs in your family and in that case, it’s best to begin PSA testing earlier, around the age of either 40 or 45.
Myth: My Dad Had Prostate Cancer, So I Will, Too
The fact: “If a man has one relative with prostate cancer, say a father or brother, his chances of getting it are two times higher than someone who doesn’t have this history,” says John Wei, MD Professor of Urology in the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. Two relatives with prostate cancer increase the risk by fivefold.
However, not every person who has a family experience or prostate cancer will develop it. If prostate cancer is a family trait consult your doctor regarding when you should begin regular PSA tests. Your doctor may be more adamant about suggesting following-up tests.
Myth: Prostate Cancer Isn’t Deadly
Fact Although the five-year survival rate for prostate cancer is very high90%, according to the ACSit’s still the second most deadly reason for cancer death among males. The one cancer that can kill more men than prostate cancer is cancer of the lung. cancer.
The majority of prostate cancers are “indolent,” which means they develop slowly and are usually watched over several years, without any other treatment. But occasionally, cancers of the prostate cancer is aggressive and can grow rapidly.
“While most men don’t have a prostate cancer that’s fast and deadly,” says Sartor, it is a possibility. You won’t be able to tell what kind you’re dealing with until it’s been thoroughly examined.
Also, believing that prostate cancer isn’t a serious issue — and not having any further tests due to this assumptionit could be a fatal way of approaching the illness.
The risks and dangers from the prostate cancer aren’t equally distributed between American males, neither. It’s the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Minority Health has reported that African-American males are 2.3 times more likely to suffer from prostate cancer in comparison to white non-Hispanic men.
Is Therapy Helping? Steps to Take if It’s Not
Is Therapy Helping? Steps to Take if It’s Not
If you’re a parent and are worried concerning your child’s mental and physical health You’re not alone.
Recent reports, including a December 2021-based advisory by the U.S. Surgeon General as well as an official statement released in October 2021 , by various major medical associations which includes the American Academy of Pediatrics -has deemed the condition of young people’s mental health within the United States either a crisis or an emergency. These reports have highlighted the high rate for young patients of hospitalizations owing to mental health issues as well as suicide attempts.
One out of 10 American children between the ages of 5 and 17 were treated with counseling or therapy to improve their mental health in the year 2019 in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This data, the most up-to-date information available on the proportion of children using mental health therapy is prior to the onset of COVID-19 epidemic that has certainly led to an increase in mental health issues for all age groups experts claim.
“The mental health crisis was there before the pandemic, but the pandemic really brought it to light,” says Jill Emanuele, PhD who is a New York City-based clinical psychologist , and vice director for clinical education at Child Mind Institute, a national non-profit organization dedicated to changing the lives of families and children who are struggling with mental health as well as learning disabilities.
“Things are really problematic and troubling right now,” she says.
Behind every one of them is a worried parent or caregiver looking to determine whether their child is receiving the support and care they deserve, and how to do when they’re not.
Here’s a helpful guide to help your child make the most of therapy.
First, Determine if Your Kid’s Therapist Is a Good Fit
A crucial part in helping to ensure that your kid receive the attention they need is knowing if they are receiving the appropriate care to help them overcome the current issues they face.
“I always encourage people to be aware it’s a partnership. The process of selecting a therapist is like choosing any other professional you interact alongside,” Dr. Emanuele declares. The therapist you choose should be someone that you as well as your child feel familiar with.
It is possible to ask the therapist in advance about their education and methods of therapy, Emanuele says. It’s an excellent sign the therapist has had experience working with children with symptoms similar to the ones your child is experiencing right currently. The way the therapist addresses your questions and address your questions right away will give you an idea that you’re safe. Emanuele states.
If your child is struggling with different factors of mental health (which isn’t unusual) the therapy program should reflect this, as per the Child Mind Institute.
And if your child’s requirements alter over the course of beginning therapy with one therapist it could be beneficial to reconsider if the therapist you have chosen for your child remains a great match.
“Key to ensuring good therapeutic outcomes in therapy are open and direct communication between parent or guardian, the therapist, and, most importantly, the child or adolescent,” states Patrice Harris MD, MA, FAPA, psychiatrist who is a specialist in psychiatry for children and adolescents and is Everyday Health’s top health physician editor. “This should occur prior to seeking therapy and throughout the process.”
Also, don’t forget to inquire with your child what they prefer especially when it comes to gender and race the Dr. Harris says. There may not be an individual who can meet the needs of your child within your region or network however, getting your child involved to participate in conversations can help.
Is Therapy the Wrong Treatment Option?
Getting Involved: Help Your Kid Show Up and Do the Work
Effective therapy is a process that requires consistency as a parent you have a crucial part to play.
Your child can be supported to make it to their appointments, whether in person or via the internet, punctually, every time.
Parents can help physically assist their children through the doors of their office or log into telehealth, says Alysha Thompson PhD Clinical psychologist and the clinical director in the Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine Unit at Seattle Children’s and assistant professor in the department of psychiatry, behavioral and social sciences within University of Washington. University of Washington.
If your child isn’t ready to leave, taking the time to listen to them and then thoughtfully talk about their concerns will help in the words of the Child Mind Institute.
For therapy to be efficient your child may be required to improve their mental health in between sessions also. Therapists often assign assignments in between sessions. Talk to your child about their therapy homework and find ways to complete it.
“A Therapist doesn’t hold an magic wand to transform everything. It’s a process that involves collaboration between the therapy provider, the parent along with the child” states Emanuele. This is different from the typical child’s doctor’s appointment, in which the doctor does most of the tasks, she says.
The right amount of parental involvement is determined by the specific situation. For young children the amount of involvement can be high. The Therapist may be more engaged with you rather than your child during sessions the doctor. Thompson says.
A method known as parenting training in management (in which parents are taught strategies to manage the behavior of their kids) is supported by plenty of evidence to support it and demands that parents practice the techniques at home during sessions.
It could take the time to develop, Harris adds. “Some therapeutic goals may take time to achieve, and it often takes time for youth to develop a therapeutic alliance with their mental health professional.”
How to Tell if Your Kid Is Getting the Help They Need
After therapy has begun you’ll naturally wonder whether it’s actually working. Utilize these methods to assess what the child’s therapy is working as it’s supposed to:
- Check for any changes to your child’s behaviour. If therapy is aiding, you might notice your child’s behavior change differently. It could mean wanting to be with acquaintances after a time of withdrawal, or showing interest in an activity they’ve always enjoyed after appearing bored. “Some people make slow and steady progress,” says Emanuele. “Most times but it’s a bumpy path with days where it’s better , and other days it’s not so good. However, you’re generally seeking the upward trend.”
- Have your kid ask questions. Go straight to the source. Even if your child isn’t able to respond immediately, frequently asking them open-ended questions will aid in getting them ready to talk to you when they are at ease to speak. Emanuele recommends asking them questions such as What do you think of how therapy has been going? Do you believe it’s effective? Which one do you believe is not working? If your child is prone to negative remarks but it’s not a signal to stop the treatment. “Parents know their kids, so they’ll know if you can count on that statement right away or if it’s better to wait,” Emanuele says. Emanuele.
- Talk to the therapist for your child. “One one of the issues that I observe repeatedly is that parents have doubts and aren’t certain which direction to take. The only person they’re not speaking about it is their therapy therapist. And that’s the person you’ll need to speak about it,” says Emanuele. You can ask your child’s therapist, for example Do you think your child’s progress is going? Do we have to try something else? “Therapists are trained to have those open, frank conversations about what’s going well, what’s not,” Thompson says.
Be aware that there is there is no rule that sets what frequency you have to engage in these discussions. It’s likely that you’ll have more check-ins in the beginning of the process, and less in the course of time However, it’s acceptable to check in at any time.
If your child doesn’t feel that therapy is working well, and you’re witnessing them behave in ways that are causing you concern or even showing warning signs of suicide it could be a sign that your child’s requirements aren’t being met by therapy, Thompson says.
Steps to Take
1. Educate Yourself About Mental Health
If you are aware of your child’s mental health diagnosis or are able to guess what it could be You can search for non-profit organizations that specialize in the condition. If, for instance, your child has depression or anxiety, you can look up the Anxiety and Depression Association of America.
It’s not necessary to be diagnosed with a condition in your mind to begin studying mental health. There is no need to have a diagnosis. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) provides a no-cost online course with six sessions called NAMI Basics On Demand for caregivers and parents who wish to help their children who suffer from mental health indicators.
2. Cultivate Healthy Lifestyle Habits at Home
Healthy lifestyles aren’t a replacement in mental health treatment According to the Child Mind Institute, but they can be a crucial supplement to mental health care.
Particularly, a good night’s sleep is an important factor since a variety of mental health illnesses are associated to poor sleep, such as depression study shows.
3. Draw on Social and School Support
Emanuele as well as Thompson both urge caregivers to rely on the strength of their communities. Family and friends can be a source of support for you in general and might have specific advice on therapists or other organizations who have helped children within your circle. It’s also essential to be involved with your child’s school, which will connect you with local resources.
4. Give It Time
If your child is suffering, it’s normal to want to end it today. However, mental health therapy isn’t working in the same way.
“Therapy is more a long game than a short game,” says Emanuele. A regimen of scientifically-based therapy generally lasts between 8 to 16 weeks, Thompson says. Thompson. The more complex and serious instances may take longer. If you’re feeling like the child’s therapy isn’t functioning, it might be because it’s not functioning at all.
5. Request a Second Opinion and Consider Switching Therapists
If you’re not sure about the child’s therapy or treatment, you may seek an opinion from a different source. The therapist you are currently working with may be able to give an introduction or refer you to an acquaintance for a consult. If you decide to end consulting with your therapist it’s not enough to stop attending to them, says Emanuele. A formal ending can help bring closure and foster healthy interactions to your kid.
6. Consider More Intensive Therapy Options
If biweekly or weekly sessions do not help with the child’s mental health problems there are more extensive alternatives. Families who are in this position might want to think about various more intense mental health options, such as partially hospitalization programmes (PHP) and IOP, intensive outpatient programmes (IOP) as well as day treatment programs and residence-based treatment services, as per the PACER Centre’s Inspiring Opportunities Project, a non-profit organization that is funded by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs.
The look of these programs is dependent on your location and your child’s age and also your child’s particular needs. Some of these programs are that they meet every day for an assortment of individual therapy and group therapy as well as skill-building as well as medication administration.
Studies suggest that more intensive levels of care, such as PHPs, could have a long-lasting positive effects in the children’s mental health without needing more strict forms of care (like the full hospitalization).
Ask your therapist about any programs in your local area, or inquire with parents in your area which programs have been successful for their children. You may also utilize this search tool for treatment provided by the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and includes intense mental health treatment options for children.
7. Get Help in a Crisis
Consider it a serious matter If the child you love is in therapy but is showing warning signs for suicide similar to those in the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide (PDF) lists.
It is possible to call the number of the national 988 Crisis and Suicide Lifeline in the event of a emergency. If you think that your child requires urgent assistance and assistance, go to the ER. “If a parent is really concerned that their child is going to imminently harm themselves or has already harmed themselves, they should bring them to the ER,” Thompson advises Thompson. The hospital staff will protect your child and assist you with your next step.
Is Therapy Ever the Wrong Treatment Option?
Is Therapy Ever the Wrong Treatment Option?
There are many who affirm that all people should seek therapy. Although therapy may be and is beneficial for many people, it’s just like other forms of health treatment, it may not be the ideal treatment for all.
To begin, everyone needs to be aware that beginning therapy doesn’t mean that by simply attending every week, you’ll feel better every time you go out the door or finish off an online health session. Therapy is a long-term commitment however, it’s worth the effort. Studies show that over 70% of those who go to therapy have improvements. 1
Understanding the signs that therapy may not be the best option for you is just as taking care of yourself as going to therapy is and you should read this article to learn the signs that indicate therapy isn’t the best option for you at the moment. (FYI even though now is not the best time to seek therapy does not mean that it will never be.)
When Therapy Is the Wrong Treatment Option
There are several reasons why therapy may not be the best treatment option. These include the cost of therapy, time, or simply not prepared to change your ways yet. Find out why therapy may not be the best option for you.
Money
Financial limitations could be the main obstacles in the path to therapy. Although there are cost-free and free therapy programs and services accessible, the reality is that therapy isn’t cheap.
But, research has shown that this could go both ways. Studies conducted on England 2 revealed that therapy can be as much as 32 more more effective in making people happy than an increase. (This would be, in all likelihood, for a population with needs that are already being met).
A study in Kenya Three times in which one group with low income received cash while the other group with a low income received therapy demonstrated that those who received money did better psychologically than those who received therapy. Stress from financial situations can trigger mental health problems. In cases of low income, therapy may not be beneficial if it is not able to deal with the systemic imbalances that cause poverty.
Time
If you’re a stressed person with many things to do–and without anything you are able to remove, trying to make time to go to therapy every week, even through telehealth, could be more than what you have the capacity for.
Too Angry
It is possible to be angry enough to warrant therapy! If you’re facing a problem that’s in the process of being resolved or occurred recently and is extremely emotionally traumatic in your case, you may not be ready to deal with the situation if you’re not prepared to let go of that anger.
If you’re experiencing intense anger as the idea of working on it makes you angry You might not be in the right place to go through therapy which is better than nothing! The anger you feel is keeping your safe even though you’re not really ready to experience the emotions.
When Therapy Could Even Be Dangerous
While in general therapy is generally secure, there are a couple of distinct instances where therapy may do greater harm than benefit, specifically because therapy could cause you to feel a little more uncomfortable before you start feeling better when you start exploring topics that you’ve never thought about prior to.
Intimate Partner Violence
In the case of intimate violence between partners and abuse, it can be risky for one to go to therapy due to reasons like the person who is the victim being aware of the credit charge and becoming angry or a therapist trying to convince clients to make a change in their lifestyle and quit the relationship.
Removing the abuser is the moment that the person who survived may be the most vulnerable, fiveso it is essential to create a thorough plan.
Suicidal Ideation or Self-Harming
“When there are high levels of suicidal ideation or self-harming behaviors,” states Racine Renee Henry doctoral student, “it may actually be harmful to start therapy because there’s not enough risk management in place.” The Dr. Henry notes that other sources are also needed.
Severe Mental Illness
The term “severe” refers to mental illness can be defined by anything that is included in the SCID (structured clinical interview) (SCID) of DSM-5 (SCID) , which includes:
- Schizophrenia
- Schizophrenia or schizophreniform or schizoaffective disorder
- Major depressive disorder, recurrent
- Bipolar I Acute manic
- Bipolar 1. Or Bipolar II Depressed
- Adult ADHD
If you suffer from one of the serious mental diseases listed above, and you’re experiencing an acute phase and/or are not on medications, therapy probably isn’t the best option at this time, according to Henry. “However, if you are on medication, you shouldn’t be without a therapist.” Research has shown that the most effective combination is therapy as well as medicine. 6
What If You Decide That Therapy Isn’t Right For You at This Time?
If you realize that therapy might not be right for you right now, there are many resources out there that can help you manage your own mental health if you’re otherwise feeling relatively stable and safe, but here are a few that come therapist-recommended by Dr. Henry.
Recognize What Your Baseline Is
Henry. Henry recommends thinking about what your ideal baseline could be. Also, think about your self in a state of calm and peace.
To determine what you are aiming for, you should ask yourself these questions:
- What’s my diet?
- What time should I get to bed?
- Do you take a shower every day? bathe?
- With whom am I spending my my time with?
She suggests either sharing the information with someone else or writing down the things you’re thinking of doing for yourself, and remembering how much you’re off from the baseline.