Abstract This paper discusses three basic classifications of skin cancer that exist - basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. It describes each type of skin cancer, its causes and its symptoms. The paper then discusses the similarities that the three types of skin cancer share and the ways that they vary in severity and characteristics.
From the Paper "Melanoma is dangerous because if undetected it can advance to other parts of the body including organs. Once the cancer spreads it becomes more difficult to treat and even fatal. Melanoma is believed to be somewhat hereditary because in more than half of cases an individual with melanoma had a relative with it as well. People who suffered from basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma are also put on a higher risk of getting melanoma. Once you have been diagnosed with melanoma the next step is to figure out what stage of the disease you have. The stages are in ascending order from the earliest stage (stage one) to the latest more serious stage (stage four). The stages are named due to the thickness of the tumor and how far the tumor has spread in the body (Skin Cancer foundation)."
Abstract The paper examines the adenoma to carcinoma sequence proposed by B. Volgenstein and E.R. Fearon. The paper explains how this model acts as a basis for understanding the mechanisms which are thought to cause eighty per cent of sporadic colon cancers and cases of familial adenematous polyposis. The paper also describes an alternative pathway resulting in microsatellite instability and thought to underlie cases of hereditary non polyposis colon cancer. In addition, the paper looks at the molecular events involving mutated mismatch repair enzymes.
From the Paper "Colorectal cancer causes approximately 15,000 deaths per year in the U.K and about 30,000 individuals are diagnosed with it each year making it the second most common cause of death from cancer. Of these, about 70% are colon cancers which affect men and women and are much more prevalent in the Western World than India or Asia. About 25% of colon cancers occur where there's a family history of it but only 5% are due to known familial syndromes. These include Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP); a mendelian dominant disorder which sees a germline mutation of APC and hereditary non polyposis colon cancer (HNPCC); a disorder in which germline mutations in mismatch repair enzymes are caused. The other 20% of clusters of colon cancer in families are unexplained but postulated risks are "mild" APC and mismatch repair gene mutations or polymorphisms of genes involved in nutrient or carcinogen metabolism and also non genetic factors. The main proportion of colon cancer though arises from sporadic adenomatous polyps (75%)."
Abstract This paper looks at the sensitive medical condition known as testicular embolism or testicular carcinoma. It looks at the reasons that the disease often goes undetected, the medical treatment for the disease, and the sensitivity required by physicians and attending medical staff when treating someone with testicular carcinoma.
From the Paper "Researchers from Nijmegen's University Medical Center St Radboud warned that a treatment delay of more than three months for testicular carcinoma was associated with a "significantly decreased" five-year survival rate. The most commonly cited reason for this critical diagnostic delay was not monetary issues. Instead, the delay was often due to patients fear and embarrassment of the condition and the location of the condition in the body. (Health Media Ltd., 2002) One way to prevent the spread of testicular carcinoma is speedy detection and treatment. Patients must conduct self-examinations on a regular basis, of course, and take responsibility for their own health. However, after detection has been made of a suspicious testicular mass, the next step often is the procedure of testicular embolism, as performed by a hospital's radiology department."
Abstract The paper explains that the liver is the biggest internal organ in the body and is essential to the body's vital functions. The paper describes the two main types of liver cancer; hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinomas. The paper discusses risk factors, symptoms that can lead to a diagnosis of liver cancer and identifies conventional and complimentary/alternative cancer treatments. The paper shows how this form of cancer is more common in men than women. The paper notes that liver cancer is particularly dangerous because it has usually been growing in the body for some time before it is diagnosed.
Outline:
Introduction
Liver Cancer
Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Cholangiocarcinomas
Risk Factors
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Treatment
Conclusion
From the Paper "According to the American Cancer Society, the liver is the bigest internal organ in the body. It is located underneath the right ribs, just unde the right lung and diaphragm. The American Cancer Society explains that the liver looks like a pyramid and is divided into right and left lobes(What is Liver Cancer, 2006). The liver also receives blood from 2 sources(What is Liver Cancer, 2006). The first source is the hepatic artery which supplies the liver with blood that is rich in oxygen. In addition the portal vein carry the nutrient-rich blood from the intestines to the liver (What is Liver Cancer, 2006)."
Abstract This paper discusses the role of soybean consumption in cancer prevention. A review of the relevant literature on the anti carcinogenic activity of soybeans is presented. A proposal for a research study to determine the effects on cancer prevention of providing a soy-rich diet for cattle used for human consumption is offered.
From the Paper "Soybeans are used for human consumption as well as animal consumption. It is put through a heat process so that the nutritional value is enhanced. ?The so-called protease inhibitors have received the most attention in this regard and have been shown to exert their antinutritional effect in the short term by causing pancreatic hypertrophy and hyperplasia in the rat, the underlying cause for an inhibition of growth in these animals(Liener, 2000). The prolonged feeding of raw soy flour or an enriched trypsin inhibitor fraction from soybeans to rats results in the development of hyperplastic and neoplastic nodules of the pancreas, including carcinomas(Liener, 2000). It should be emphasized that all of these adverse effects are seen when protease inhibitors are present in relatively high concentrations in the diet and may be completely unrelated to the anticarcinogenic effects seen at low concentrations of the Bowman-Birk inhibitor(Liener, 2000).?"
Abstract This paper discusses the fatal disease of lung cancer. The different types of lung cancer are described. The paper outlines the various possible causes and symptoms of lung cancer. The paper examines diagnostic procedures, treatment programs and prevention strategies. Statistical data is provided on the topic.
From the Paper "The average age for the diagnosis of lung cancer is 60 years of age, and it is rarely seen in people less than 40 years of age. Lung cancer affects both men and women, but rates are decreasing among both white and African-American men, but are increasing among white and African-American women (American Cancer Society; American Lung Association). Lung cancer is the leading cause of death from cancer in America, accounting for an estimated 28% of cancer deaths. Lung cancer kills more people than breast, prostate, and colon cancer combined. An estimated 169,400 cases of lung cancer will be diagnosed in 2002, and 156,900 people will die from the disease in the same year (American Cancer Society; American Lung Association). Second-hand smoking is responsible for approximately 3,000 lung cancer deaths each year in America (American Lung Association)."
Abstract This paper reminds us that even though cancer causes many deaths throughout the world, most causes of this devastating disease are unknown. Current research is now looking at genetic causation, which may lead to cures. The author discusses in detail cancer classifications that have a genetic link: Breast cancer, colorectal, mutations in tumor suppressor genes, childhood carcinomas and many other cancers. The author comments that there appears to be a lack of a genetic link between minority and white populations; therefore, the higher rates of cancer among minorities may be due to familial causes: Environment, occupation or environment.
From the Paper "A gene mutation in BNC1 has been identified in glioma, a brain cancer; the inactivation of the gene may advance the malignant nature of tumors. Glioma is the leading killer of children with cancer. Brain tumors spread faster then other tumors. BNC1 may also be involved in the development of other tumors. An additional gene has been found that may be involved in multiple forms of cancer. The gene, MMAC1 or PTEN is found along chromosome 10. Two research teams working on separate cancer types found this gene. The brain tumor with involvement of this gene is glioblastoma multiforme, which is responsible for 5,000-6,000 deaths per year. As stated above, this gene is also seen in cases of breast cancer. The mutation was also found in melanoma, kidney and prostate cancer. The non-mutated form of the gene seems to act as a tumor suppressor, and the gene may determine malignancy in tumors as well. A rare genetic disorder called Bloom's syndrome combines chromosomal instability and a high rate of neoplasia. Increased recombination along with mutation may cause the increased rate of neoplasia. A study on twins gives information on genetic links to cancer. Results of this study suggest a genetic link for the following cancers: colon and rectum in males, female breast cancer and in situ cervical cancer, prostate cancer, and total cancer. The only cancer listed without a heritable link was lung cancer in both males and females."
Abstract "Smoking is a factor, and an important factor, in the production of carcinoma in the lung,? wrote Richard Doll and Bradford Hill some fifty years ago. It was this first study which would initiate all others. It was this first study which would be expanded and eventually establish smoking as a major health risk linking it to problems including everything from heart disease to bronchitis, from indigestion to impotence. And it was this first study which would spark the controversies still surrounding smoking, smokers and the tobacco industry. The paper argues that for over fifty years the tobacco industry has repeatedly demonstrated a callous and irresponsible demeanor. Throughout the years, the industry has lied to the public about the harmful effects of cigarettes and they have consciously marketed their product toward youth, minorities and the poor. This paper looks closely at issues surrounding cigarettes, smoking and the multi-billion dollar industry which supports and promotes mass consumption of tobacco throughout the world.
From the Paper "In 1995, ABC News reported that tobacco companies manipulate the amount of nicotine ? the primary addictive ingredient ? in their cigarettes. They do this by removing nicotine from the tobacco and then restoring it, thus making it more potent. Unfortunately, ABC used the term "spike" in their report, leading many to believe that tobacco companies add more nicotine to their product. Though the vast majority of the report was valid, that single word gave the tobacco companies the opening that they required. The executives at Phillip Morris were not amused by the report at all, so they took that opening and sued ABC for ten billion dollars. (Glass, Pg 3)"
Abstract This paper discusses how and why it occurs that a mammogram might not always detect breast cancer. It discusses the various biological and technical factors and also looks at ways that this phenomenon might be reversed.
From the Paper "Mammography is a particular type of imaging which use a low-dose x-ray system for the purpose of detecting breast cancer, at a very early stage. But even with the help of Mammography, in 10-30% of cases breast cancers would be missed. In this paper an attempt has been made to understand the factors, which cause missed breast cancers, and discuss ways to reduce the false negative rate of mammography."
Abstract The purpose of this paper is to introduce, discuss and analyze the topic of skin cancer. It looks at how skin cancer is a growing problem in society because so many people misunderstand it and how, since it is the most common form of cancer, so much more needs to be done to educate people about the dangers of skin cancer to help control the disease and its spread.
From the Paper "In 1993, it was estimated that 700,000 new cases of skin cancer would be diagnosed (Sherry 81), and every year the numbers get larger, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, a worldwide group working to treat and prevent the disease. In addition, "About 41,600 Americans were diagnosed with malignant melanoma in 1998, and 7,300 died from the disease" (Goff 28). These numbers have increased dramatically since 1930, and it seems as more Americans have fun in the sun, they will pay later when skin cancer attacks. There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Each one has slightly different characteristics, but they are all dangerous, especially if left untreated."
Abstract This extensive paper examines a number of issues related to African-American women and breast cancer, with an emphasis on detection, treatment and survival. The paper gives a brief overview of cancer, the breast and types of breast cancers. The author then describes the purpose of this study, which was to determine the impact of racial disparity on breast cancer survival. The study also addresses socio-economic factors, such as lack of health insurance, and low incomes. The study attempts to identify the reasons why African-American women have a higher mortality rate than all other ethnic groups. Finally, the author questions whether education, community out-reach programs, resources would influence the probability of reducing breast cancer mortality rates among African-American women.
Outline:
Introduction and Problem Background
The Breast
Development of the Breast
What is Cancer?
What is Breast Cancer?
Major Types of Breast Cancers
Risk Factors for developing Breast Cancer
Purpose of Study
Research Objectives
Limitation
Assumptions
Definition of Terms
Scope of Study
Review of Related Literature
Historical and General Background
Possible Barriers to The African-American Women having Mammograms
Existing Studies
Another Study of Racial Disparities in Breast Carcinoma Survival Rates
Methodology
Instrumentation
Statistical Approach
Relevant Results and Significant Studies
Summary of the Literature Reviewed
Findings
Association Between Socio-economic Status and Breast Cancer Survival
Relationship between racial difference in treatment, and breast cancer mortality among the African-American women and the Caucasian-women
Summary, Conclusions, Recommendations
Summary
Conclusions
Recommendations
References
From the Paper "The incidence of breast cancer among the African-American women is slightly lower than it is for the Caucasian women. In any given year, 95 out of 100,000 African-American women are diagnosed with breast cancer, compared to 112 out of every 100,000 the Caucasian women. However, the African-American women are slightly more likely to develop breast cancer after age 50 (www.netwellness.org, 2004). Breast cancer is the cancer with the second highest death rate for both the African-American women and the Caucasian women. The overall lifetime risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer is 10% for the African-American women and 14% for the Caucasian women. However, about 31 out of every 100,000 the African-American women died from the disease each year compared to just 27 out of every 10,000 the Caucasian women from 1989 to 1992, but the rate also rose by 2% for the African-American women during the same period."
Abstract This paper explains that laryngeal cancer is cancer of the larynx or voice box, which is essential for normal vocal production. The paper describes several types of degrees of laryngectomy, the complete or partial removal of the larynx, which is usually performed to contain and stop the cancer from metastasizing to other cells. The paper then explains that, in addition to regular post surgical care, a speech pathologist should be included in the treatment team as soon as possible. The speech pathologist helps the patient learn to communicate, provides counseling and gives emotional support. Several illustrations are included with the paper.
From the Paper "It is the responsibility of the speech language pathologist to be the main intermediary between the patient and communication, postoperatively, as speech pathologists seek to help the patient learn effective communication in whatever manner possible so the individual may gain as close to pre-surgical communication effectiveness as possible. This means that the speech pathologist is responsible for training the individual on devices, pneumonic and electric as well as helping the individual to use pneumonic devices for communication and or teaching the individual a greater expression of sign language development."
Tags: squamous detection devices intermediary, family intervention
Abstract The paper explores the risk factors for developing colorectal carcinoma, which include one's diet, hereditary factors and syndromes and having inflammatory bowel disease. The paper discusses the symptoms, findings of a physical examination, prognosis for patients and treatment options.
From the Paper "The gastrointestinal tract is our body's pathway where food travels from the mouth, through the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestine within where the nutrients are extracted for the needs of the body. The first part of the pathway is the esophagus. It is the conduit that guides food from the mouth, where it is prepared by chewing, down to the stomach where it is stored. Then, the stomach, which is both a storage space and a secretory organ that produces the gastric acid necessary for digestion. Then the tract is followed by the duodenum when involuntary muscle contractions (peristalsis) empties the food gradually into it, the first part of the small intestine."
