Cancer Facts
Pinc Bubble provides information from the National Cancer Institute. Spend some time on they're informative web site. It is well organized, user friendly and brings with it a wealth of information. Below is a message from the director of the organization to you.
Become someone's miracle today.
"Welcome to the National Cancer Institute
Since the passage of the National Cancer Act in 1971, our nation has made great progress in reducing the burden of cancer. It was reported in February 2005 that cancer deaths in the United States have declined - for the first time since 1930, the year our country began compiling statistics on the disease's toll. The numbers were modest yet historic: 369 fewer people died from cancer in 2003 than in 2002.
Today's progress against cancer is the result of enhanced prevention strategies, along with earlier detection and better treatment - all made possible by years of dedicated intramural and extramural research.
While we have much more to learn about this complex disease, our increased understanding of cancer at the genetic, molecular, and cellular levels is opening up enormous opportunities to interrupt the initiation and development of the disease.
The National Cancer Institute's research programs are extensive and contain many innovative initiatives. I invite you to explore our Web site to find out more about the exciting work being conducted here at NCI and by NCI-supported scientists throughout the country.
You will also find valuable cancer-related information of all kinds. For the general public, patients, and health professionals, we offer consumer-oriented information on a wide range of topics as well as comprehensive descriptions of our research programs and clinical trials. Scientists will find detailed information on specific areas of research interest and funding opportunities.
Thank you for your interest in cancer research and the NCI.
John E. Niederhuber, M.D.
Director, National Cancer Institute"
Source: National Cancer Institute
www.cancer.gov/
We encourage you to read the following:
The American Cancer Society recommends the following as quoted.
'Special Requirements for Radiation'...ask your doctor before using any cream, lotion, makeup, sunscreen, perfume, or deodorant on or near treatment areas. If these areas are itchy or irritated, a light sprinkling of cornstarch may be allowed by your physician to offset discomfort; however,filmy skin products can hinder treatment. Generally, you should use only warm water on treated areas and gently pat dry. You should not scrub, scratch or shave treated skin. You also must not attempt to remove any radiation markings. (These eventually fade away) Finally, do not apply heat/cold-packs and be sure to follow doctor's orders on limiting sun exposure. After radiotherapy, ask your physician before using make-up or other skin-care products."
'Special requirements for Chemotherapy... Don't use hormone creams, such as those containing hydrocortisone. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and a sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher (unless otherwise directed by your doctor). Since even oily skin may become dry or flaky during chemotherapy, consider using moisturizer several times daily to lessen the impact.'
'Other Tips ... Cancer treatment can increase vulnerability to infection, so keep hygiene a high priority. Always wash your hands before using products and close lids tightly. Keep fingers out of containers, using clean cotton balls, swabs or disposable sponge-tip applicators for dispensing. Never share products and always replace them according to manufacturer's recommendation.'
Each of us has a mental picture of how we look, our "self-image." Although we may not always like how we look, we are used to and accept our self-image. Cancer and its treatment can change your self-image. You may have changes such as hair loss or scars from surgery. Some of these changes (hair loss) will go away when treatment is over. Other changes (scars) will always be a part of how you look. Every person changes in different ways. Some changes people will notice and other changes only you will notice. Some changes you may like and with some others, you may need time to adjust. Coping with these changes can be hard. But, over time, most people learn to accept them. Your family and friends can help by showing they love you the way you are. Staying Active Many people find that staying active can help. Whether you swim, play a sport, or take an exercise class, you may find that being active helps you accept your new self-image. Talk with your doctor about ways you can stay active. Hobbies and volunteer work can also help improve your self-image. You may like to read, listen to music, or sew. You may also want to teach a child how to read or volunteer at a homeless shelter. You may find that you feel better about yourself when you get involved in helping others and doing things you enjoy.
Breast Cancer Facts and Figures 2005-2006
American Cancer Society
(The American Cancer Society)
To date there are approximately 2.3 million people surviving breast cancer
This year an estimated 211, 240 women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer and an additional 58,000 will be diagnosed with in situ (non-invasive) breast cancer.
An estimated 40,000 women will die of breast cancer.
97% of breast cancer occurs in women over the age of 40
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, nearly 1 in 3 women will be diagnosed.
Although Caucasian women have a higher incidence rate of breast cancer than African American women after the age of 35; however, African American women are more likely to die from breast cancer and experience a higher incidence rate before the age of 35.
What is Breast Cancer?
A group of diseases that causes cells in the body to change and grow out of control. Most types of cancer cells form a lump or mass called a tumor and are named for the part of the body where the tumor originates.
Types of Breast Cancer
In Situ - When the cancer has not spread beyond the area where it began. Cancer is confined within the ducts (DCIS) or lobules (LCIS).
Invasive - When cancer starts in the ducts or lobules of the breast, but have broken through the ducts or gland walls to invade the surrounding fatty tissues of the breast.
Early Breast Cancer typically doesn't produce any symptoms when the tumor is small and treatable.
Diagnosing Breast Cancer Early
Breast Self Exam
Clinical Breast Exam
Mammography/Mammogram
Recommendations
Women aged 40 and older
Annual Mammogram
Clinical Breast Exam
Monthly Breast Self Exam (optional)
Women aged 20-39
Clinical Breast Exam, every 3 years
Monthly Breast Self Exam (optional)
Most breast abnormalities are benign (non-cancerous)
Some Common Risk Factors Associated with a Breast Cancer diagnosis
Age
Family History
Age at first full term pregnancy
Early Menarche
Late menopause
Obesity
Birth control pills
Alcohol consumption
Tobacco usage
Time since diagnosis, age at diagnosis, stage at diagnosis, race/ethnicity, and socioeconomic status all influence breast cancer survival.
There is no guaranteed way to PREVENT breast cancer at this time.
Facing Forward: Life After Cancer
Who is a survivor?
This booklet uses the term "cancer survivor" to include anyone who has been diagnosed with cancer, from the time of diagnosis through the rest of his or her life. Family members, friends, and caregivers are also part of the survivorship experience.
You may not like the word, or you may feel that it does not apply to you, but the word "survivor" helps many people think about embracing their lives beyond their illness.
People Respond to Cancer in Many Ways
This book was written to help you learn from other people with cancer. Finding out how others respond to cancer might help you understand your own feelings. Learning how others manage the special problems that cancer brings might help you find your own ways of coping with the problems that come along for you.
Sharing Ideas about Ways to Live with Cancer
Many people helped to write this book--people who have had cancer and their family members, friends, and caregivers. We thank each of them for sharing their ideas and suggestions about ways to live with cancer. You will find their comments in italic type throughout this book.
We also thank the many health care providers who reviewed Taking Time. Their comments and practical suggestions are based on years of experience helping people with cancer.
Source: www.cancer.gov
Cancer Information Service
CIS answers questions about cancer, clinical trials, and cancer-related services and helps users find information on the NCI Web site. It also provides NCI printed materials.
Phone: 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237)
TTY: 1-800-332-8615
Web site: www.cancer.gov
Chat online: www.cancer.gov/help
Administration on Aging
The Administration on Aging provides information, assistance, individual counseling, organization of support groups, caregiver training, respite care, and supplemental services.
Phone: 1-202-619-0724
TTY: 1-800-877-8339
Web site: www.aoa.gov
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services provides information for consumers about patient rights, prescription drugs, and health insurance issues, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Phone: 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)
Web site: www.medicare.gov or www.cms.hhs.gov (for the free booklet Medicare Basics: A Guide for Caregivers)
Phone: Web site: (for Medicare information)
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
EEOC provides fact sheets about job discrimination, protections under the Americans With Disabilities Act, and employer responsibilities. It also coordinates investigations of employment discrimination.
Phone: 1-800-669-4000
TTY: 1-800-669-6820
Web site: www.eeoc.gov
National Association of Area Agencies on Aging/Eldercare Locator
The Eldercare Locator is a nationwide directory assistance service designed to help older persons and caregivers find local resources for support. Areas of support include transportation, meals, home care, housing alternatives, legal issues, and social activities.
Phone: 1-800-677-1116
Web site: www.eldercare.gov
U.S. Department of Labor/Office of Disability Employment Policy
The U.S. Department of Labor provides fact sheets on a variety of disability issues, including discrimination, workplace accommodation, and legal rights.
Phone: 1-866-ODEP-DOL (1-866-633-7365)
TTY: 1-877-889-5627
Web site: www.dol.gov/odep
Nonprofit Organizations
American Cancer Society/National Cancer Information Center
ACS provides cancer information and support to patients, families, and caregivers. It also supports research, community education, and advocacy and public policy issues.
Phone: 1-800-ACS-2345 (1-800-227-2345)
Web site: www.cancer.org
CancerCare
CancerCare provides free, professional support services to anyone affected by cancer: people with cancer, caregivers, children, loved ones, and the bereaved. CancerCare programs - including counseling, education, financial assistance and practical help - are provided by trained oncology social workers and are free of charge.
Phone: 1-800-813-HOPE (1-800-813-4673)
Web site: www.cancercare.org
Cancer Hope Network
Cancer Hope Network matches patients and families with trained volunteers who have recovered from a similar cancer experience.
Phone: 1-877-HOPENET (1-877-467-3638)
Web site: www.cancerhopenetwork.org
Family Caregiver Alliance
FCA addresses the needs of families and friends who provide long-term care at home.
Phone: 1-800-445-8106
Web site: www.caregiver.org
Gilda's Club, Inc.
Gilda's Club provides social and emotional support for patients, families, and friends.
Phone: 1-888-GILDA-4-U (1-888-445-3248)
Web site: www.caregiver.org
Lance Armstrong Foundation
The Lance Armstrong Foundation seeks to inspire and empower people living with, through, and beyond cancer to live strong. It provides education, advocacy, and public health and research programs.
Phone: 1-512-236-8820 (general number)
1-866-235-7205 (LIVESTRONG SurvivorCare program)
Web site: www.livestrong.org
National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship
NCCS provides information and resources on cancer support, advocacy, and quality-oflife issues to cancer survivors and their loved ones.
Phone: 1-877-NCCS-YES (1-877-622-7937)
Web site: www.canceradvocacy.org
National Family Caregivers Association
NFCA provides information, education, support, public awareness, and advocacy for caregivers.
Phone: 1-800-896-3650
Web site: www.nfcacares.org
NeedyMeds
The NeedyMeds Web site lists medicine assistance programs available from drug companies. NOTE: Usually, patients cannot apply directly to these programs. Ask a doctor, nurse, or social worker to contact NeedyMeds on your behalf.
Web site: www.needymeds.com
Patient Advocate Foundation
PAF provides education, legal counseling, and referrals to cancer patients and survivors. It specializes in matters related to managed care, insurance, financial issues, job discrimination, and debt crisis.
Phone: 1-800-532-5274
Web site: www.patientadvocate.org
The Well Spouse Association
The association provides support to wives, husbands, and partners of chronically ill and/or disabled persons.
Phone: 1-800-838-0879
Web site: www.wellspouse.org
The Wellness Community
The Wellness Community is a national organization that provides support groups, stress reduction and cancer education workshops, nutrition guidance, exercise sessions, and social events.
Phone: 1-888-793-WELL (1-888-793-9355)
Web site: www.wellness-community.org
Source: www.cancer.gov
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