Many medical breakthroughs have resulted for the mapping of the human genome which has been ongoing for quite sometime now. In a move that combines some of the most powerful super-computers and the most advanced genetic research, they have been able to discover a great deal of what the various genes we have play in our daily lives. There is a new form of breast cancer detection tool that combines the patient’s medical history and a high-tech genomic profile which can give clues to possible treatments that would work best for each and every individual. Cancer treatment and prevention has benefited from the study and it doesn’t end there, for they are still making headway in the fight against one of the world’s biggest killers.
February 29, 2008
The Genome Project – mapping the human Genome
February 25, 2008
Lymph Node Biopsies
Patients are advised on seeking several opinions when seeking treatment for breast cancer due to the extreme differences of treatments available for non-invasive and invasive forms. The non-invasive form of breast cancer sits just below the surface of the skin and can be treated with radiation therapy or other more benign techniques. It is only when the cancer has invaded the underlying tissue that more aggressive treatment options are recommended for the treatment to be effective. Lymph nodes are small ducts which drain fluids from the tissues on the human body sending them back into the circulatory tract. These nodes once infected by disease spreads fast due to their direct link to the circulatory system allowing the cells to migrate to areas far from the origin of the disease. So seek all the information that you can and try to do a lot of research before committing to a particular form of treatment. When hesitant about a diagnosis, you should always voice out your doubts or go to seek other opinions on the matter.
February 9, 2008
Family History and Cancer
Experts advise people to have at least general knowledge of any history of cancer within the family tree. This comes to light for of all cancer cases 5 to 10% are inherited and a family history of the disease allows you to get recommendations from your doctor regarding screening schedules and preventive measures to take. Mothers and Daughters are also encouraged to both have regular checkups and the younger generation be given HPV vaccines to prevent the occurrence of cervical cancer in later life. As with many forms of cancer, diet and other environmental factors can play a large part whether you do or do not get the disease so better understanding and regular screenings as part of the annual check-up is best especially in the later years of life. The older you get, the weaker the immune system along with the bodies organs that can lead to cancer.