breast cancer

Senin, 23 April 2012

Later Diagnosis of Breast Cancer in Poor Women: Higher Mortality Rates - Health - Mental Health

CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians report for 2011 shows that later detection of breast cancer in poor woman has lead to a higher mortality rate then that of non poor women - who generally receive more frequent screenings.

"In general, progress in reducing breast cancer death rates is being seen across races/ethnicities, socioeconomic status, and across the U.S.," said Otis W. Brawley, M.D., chief medical officer of the American Cancer Society. "However, not all women have benefited equally. Poor women are now at greater risk for breast cancer death because of less access to screening and better treatments. This continued disparity is impeding real progress against cancer of the breast, and will require renewed efforts to ensure that all women have access to high-quality prevention, detection, and treatment services."

More highlights from Breast Cancer Statistics as summarized by Science Daily, 2011 and Breast Cancer Facts & Figures 2011-2012 : Cancer of the breast mortality rates have declined steadily since 1990, with the drop in mortality larger among women under 50 (3.2% per year) than among women 50 and older (2.0% per year). In 2011, an estimated 230,480 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Excluding cancers of the skin, cancer of the breast is the most common cancer among women in the United States, accounting for nearly 1 in 3 cancers diagnosed. An estimated 39,520 women are expected to die from the disease in 2011. Only lung cancer accounts for more cancer deaths in women. In January 2008 (the latest year for which figures are available), approximately 2.6 million women living in the U.S. had a history of breast cancer, more than half of whom were diagnosed less than 10 years earlier. Most of them were cancer-free, while others still had evidence of cancer and may have b een undergoing treatment. From 2004 to 2008, the average annual female breast cancer incidence rate was highest in non-Hispanic white women (125.4 cases per 100,000 females) and lowest for Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders (84.9). During this time period, cancer of the breast incidence rates were stable among all racial/ethnic groups. Although overall breast cancer incidence rates are lower in African American than white women, African American women have higher rates of distant stage disease; are more likely to be diagnosed with larger tumors; and are more likely to die from the disease. From 1998-2007, female breast cancer death rates declined annually by 1.9% in Hispanics/Latinas, 1.8% in non-Hispanic whites, 1.6% in African Americans, and 0.8% in Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders. Death rates have remained unchanged among American Indians/Alaska Natives. Analyses by county level poverty rates showed that death rates were highest among women residing in affluent areas unt il the early 1990s, but since that time rates have been higher among women in poorer areas because the decline in death rates began later and was slower among women residing in poor areas compared to those in affluent areas. Trends in cancer of the breast death rates vary by state. During 1998-2007, death rates declined in 36 states and the District of Columbia, but remained relatively unchanged in the remaining 14 states (Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, and Wyoming). The lack of a decline in these states is likely related to variations in the prevalence and quality of mammography screening, as well as state differences in racial and socioeconomic composition. Despite much progress in increasing mammography utilization, screening rates continue to be lower in poor women compared to non-poor women. In 2008, 51.4% of poor women ages 40 and older had a screening mammogram in the pas t 2 years compared to 72.8% of non-poor women.

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Fruits, Phytochemicals & Breast Cancer - Health - Cancer

If you love sinking your teeth into juicy delectable fruits, you are in luck, particularly if you know someone with breast cancer or are a breast cancer patient yourself. New research indicates that substances found in pomegranates and mangoes may be natural alternatives to breast cancer medication and other treatment options. Pomegranates and mangoes are considered to be superfruits, or fruits that are known for their exceptional nutritional richness and antioxidant qualities. The wonderful thing about fruits as natural medicines is that they are delicious, contain a variety of nutrients, and there are no side-effects as a result of their consumption.

Both fruits have the potential to alter some of those dismal breast cancer statistics by preventing the spread of breast cancer!

Pomegranates

In reference to the results of a study published in the January issue of Cancer Prevention Research, researchers say they've found a natural substance in pomegranates that could prevent the development of hormone-dependent breast cancer and stop the growth of estrogen-responsive tumors. Pomegranate fruit contains phytochemicals, specifically Urolithin B, that work like aromatase inhibitors.

Aromatase inhibitors are used by physicians to block the synthesis of estrogen in an attempt to subdue the growth of estrogen-dependent breast cancer tumors. According to the Mayo Clinic website, AI drugs come choc-full of side effects such as severe joint pain, muscle aches, hot flashes, headaches, bone fractures, fatigue, and even a risk of heart disease.

The research team for the aforementioned study discovered that natural phytochemicals found in pomegranates suppress estrogen production, thereby preventing the spread of breast cancer cells and the growth of estrogen-responsive tumors. One particular substance found in pomegranates - dubbed Urolithin B - significantly inhibited the growth of cultured breast cancer cells in the laboratory.

Mangos

At Texas A&M University's AgriLife Research department, laboratory experiments indicated that mango fruit prevented or stopped cancer growth in certain breast and colon cell lines. The experiments also showed that mango extract demonstrated some anticancer abilities when tested on prostate, leukemia and lung cancer cells. When tested on the most common breast and colon cancers, however, mango compounds were found to have even stronger cancer fighting abilities than when tested on the other types of cancer cells.

In the experiments, the researchers documented that the cancer cell division process was interrupted by the mango extract. In fact, the mango extract caused the colon and breast cancer cells to undergo apoptosis, or programmed cell death.

What do mangoes contain that may eventually have the scientific and medical communities singing their praises as worthwhile adversaries of breast cancer? The answer is polyphenols, the natural phytochemicals found in plants. Polyphenols are antioxidants with the potential to protect the body from disease.

When husband and wife food scientists Dr. Suzanne and Steve Talcott performed the experiments at Texas A&M, they evaluated specific polyphenols for effectiveness. What they found was that gallotannins were the most active cancer-fighting agents in mangoes. Gallotannins are a class of natural polyphenolic compounds believed to aid in the prevention or halt the growth of cancer cells.

So, pomegranate and mango lovers, drink and eat up!

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Stage 4 Breast Cancer A New Immunotherapy Treatment Brings Hope to Stage 4 Cancer Patients - Health - Cancer

=> Immunology Strengthens Fight Against Stage 4 cancer and Stage 4 Breast Cancer

The field of cancer immunology is now more than 30 years old and has developed rapidly, particularly over the last 10 years. Immunotherapy, the use of the stimulated immune system to fight off disease, has branched out into different subsets including immune system growth factors, monoclonal antibodies, cellular therapies, and even combinations of two or more of these immunotherapy strategies. Recent advances in adoptive immunotherapy (focused on the expansion of specific disease-fighting white blood cells and their infusion into patients) have led to breakthrough discoveries that will profoundly impact the treatment of stage 4 breast cancer and other stage 4 cancer over the next decade.

=> A Look at Traditional Breast Cancer and stage 4 cancer Protocols

Breast cancer treatment in the early stages has, for quite some time, been focused on lumpectomy combined with radio and chemotherapy to increase survival. With late stage or stage 4 breast cancer we typically see more of the same, however, it is not uncommon to see additional forms of radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatments if the patient had grown refractory (or is not responding to treatment) to the first regimen.

Immunotherapy for cancer and stage 4 cancer provides a complete new way of targeting metastasis and dealing with the primary site of the cancer all at one time. Data clearly shows that as tumors and cancer stages progress so do immune blocking mechanisms conjured (up regulated) by cancers to self-protect. By depleting such negative immune factors and rebuilding a specialized cancer vaccine that employs the body's own natural killer cells to fight - Envita has a powerful and innovative method to deal with stage 4 breast cancer and stage 4 cancer using the best immunotherapy.

=> Envita Leads the Field in Stage 4 Breast Cancer Immunotherapy

Multitudes of published studies have demonstrated the effects of adoptive immune therapy in cancer patients. Envita's renowned medical team assessed the best of these studies and focused on the strengths and weaknesses of each. Their findings established a protocol that incorporates only the best procedures for the expansion and application of cells as a powerful immunotherapy. Our protocols are based on the most recent published research in the field, from some of the most prestigious hospitals and universities in the nation and around the world. However, our treatment has been specially designed to deal specifically with stage 4 breast cancer and stage 4 cancer patients immune systems.

=> Cancer Killers for Stage 4 Breast Cancer and Stage 4 Cancer

It is common knowledge among scientists and physicians that three types of white blood cells can be activated by the immune system to kill cancer cells directly: cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), natural killer cells (NKs), and natural killer T cells (NKTs). These cells are found circulating in the body in low amounts; however, they are a major first-line immune system cancer defense. As cancer progress these cells can decrease in number and are often times being blocked by the cancer signaling. This plays an essential role in the progression of the disease. Envita has found an effective way to reverse this process.

=> Stage 4 Breast Cancer Patients and Understanding Natural Killer Cells

Over the past 20 years, scientific studies have repeatedly shown that breast cancer patients have significantly lower levels of natural killer cells than healthy individuals.1-3 Additionally, NK and NKT function is observably lower in those with breast cancer, meaning that the immune system is severely impaired.2-5

Research also shows that progression of disease in these patients is associated with decreasing NK activity, and that people with a significant family history of breast cancer had lower NK cell activity than people with minor family history of breast cancer.4,6 This strongly suggests that defects in NK activity itself may actually contribute to the onset of breast cancer.6 Not surprisingly, breast cancer patients typically have low levels of interferon-gamma, a major growth factor for NK cells that is naturally produced by the body.3

=> Natural Killer Cells Vital to Stage 4 Breast Cancer and Stage 4 Cancer Patients

Despite the impairments in NK and NKT cell number and function seen in cancer patients, these cells have been successfully expanded from patients via advanced laboratory techniques - providing the necessary cellular resources for effective immunotherapy.3,5 Published research from Stanford University, the Mayo Clinic, and Harvard University has recently illustrated and supported the importance of natural killer cells and natural killer T cells in patients with cancer.

In fact, adoptive immunotherapy composed of NK cell infusions has the capacity to cause clinical regressions in patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease, and leukemia. Moreover, NK cells and cytotoxic T lymphocytes have also been utilized in breast cancer patients with clinical successes noted.7,8 In patients with metastatic breast cancer, NK infusion was well-tolerated and resulted in complete response in 20% of patients.7 In 6 out of 16 patients infused with activated T lymphocytes, objective tumor regressions were observed.8 In animal models of breast cancer, the anti-tumor effects of agents such as interleukin-2 and interleukin-12 were determined to be dependent on NK cells.9,10 Additionally, the presence of activated NK cells and other tumor-fighting immune cells have proven to be key factors in the response of cancer patients to drugs such as thalidomide, Gleevec, and paclitaxel.11-13

=> Envita's Two-fold Stage 4 Breast Cancer and Stage 4 Cancer Immunotherapy

Envita Natural Medical Center in its Mexico office is currently utilizing NK cells and CTLs as immunotherapy Treatment for cancer patients. Envita's proprietary immune therapy vaccine is called AAIT (for autologous adoptive immune therapy,) and there are 4 major cell types involved - the great majority being natural killer cells and T cells. The types of cells that make up Envita's treatment are listed below:

=> Natural killer cells=> Natural killer T cells=> Cytokine-induced killer cells=> Cytotoxic T lymphocytes

The vaccine(s) is compiled by growing a patient's own antitumor immune cells into the billions. These cells are then analyzed for activation markers and tested for their ability to kill cancer cells in the laboratory, then re-infused into the patient.

Enhancing the immune system is a major benefit to fighting cancer, but this vaccine-driven routine may be added upon through subtraction. Simply put, we can improve results by not only bolstering critical components of the immune system, but simultaneously depleting it of negative factors that impede its functionality. Depleting the negative factors is extremely important. It is no secret that cancer cells effect the release of T-regulatory cells, or "negative T cells." The numbers of these cells correlate directly with specific cancer stages - respective to each cancer type. The more advanced the cancer, the higher the T-regulatory cells. These cells block your body's immune system ability to fight. The immune system is the first and last defense against cancer.

Naturally, by stepping in and acting to deplete these cells along with other key enzymes that block critical immune system, cancer cell-killing action will be expedited exponentially. Imagine your immune system being targeted and ready to go, yet something in your body suddenly applies the brakes. This is in fact what most stage 4 breast cancer and stage 4 cancer patients are dealing with in regards to high regulatory T cells. Envita's treatment protocols build a targeted vaccine by using the body's most powerful cancer killers, but also depletes the portion of the immune system that inhibits the body from functioning efficiently in such regard.

Case in point, there is no treatment (conventional or alternative) that can be effective in the later stages of cancer if these negative T-cells are not effectively down-regulated.

Unlike other immune therapies found in the published literature, Envita's AAIT can be used as a stand-alone treatment. AAIT can also be given in conjunction with other therapies that will act to enhance the effects of cells once they are in the patient. This is a key improvement over many of the published studies in the scientific literature. Envita's AAIT therapy is not just focused on expanding cells in the laboratory; the ultimate goal is to also expand them and keep them activated after they are infused back into the body. Making AAIT next important piece to stage 4 breast cancer and stage 4 cancer therapy.

=> AAIT Available for stage 4 breast cancer at Envita Mexico

The activated natural killer cells in Envita's AAIT are considerably more effective in the realm of tumor obliteration than other similar treatments offered in Mexico or across the globe. Backed by scientific research and clinical results, Envita's AAIT offers a powerful option for stage 4 breast cancer and stage 4 cancer patients who are looking to fight cancer while keeping their immune system intact. If you have any questions concerning Envita's AAIT, please consult with our team of physicians and patient educators. This particular therapy is offered in Envita Mexico's international cancer center.

=> References

1)Balch CM, Tilden AB, Dougherty PA, Cloud GA. Depressed levels of granular lymphocytes with natural killer (NK) cell function in 247 cancer patients. Ann Surg. 1983 Aug;198(2):192-9.

2)Konjevic G, Spuzic I. Evaluation of different effects of sera of breast cancer patients on the activity of natural killer cells. J Clin Lab Immunol. 1992;38(2):83-93.

3)Caras I, Grigorescu A, Stavaru C, Radu DL, Mogos I, Szegli G, Salageanu A. Evidence for immune defects in breast and lung cancer patients. Cancer Immunol Immunother. 2004 Dec;53(12):1146-52.

4)Garner WL, Minton JP, James AG, Hoffmann CC. Human breast cancer and impaired NK cell function. J Surg Oncol. 1983 Sep;24(1):64-6.

5)Crough T, Purdie DM, Okai M, Maksoud A, Nieda M, Nicol AJ. Modulation of human Valpha24(+)Vbeta11(+) NKT cells by age, malignancy and conventional anticancer therapies. Br J Cancer. 2004 Nov 29;91(11):1880-6.

6)Strayer DR, Carter WA, Brodsky I. Familial occurrence of breast cancer is associated with reduced natural killer cytotoxicity. Breast Cancer Res Treat. 1986;7(3):187-92.

7)deMagalhaes-Silverman M, Donnenberg A, Lembersky B, Elder E, Lister J, Rybka W, Whiteside T, Ball E. Posttransplant adoptive immunotherapy with activated natural killer cells in patients with metastatic breast cancer. J Immunother. 2000 Jan;23(1):154-60.

8)Bishop MR, Fowler DH, Marchigiani D, Castro K, Kasten-Sportes C, Steinberg SM, Gea-Banacloche JC, Dean R, Chow CK, Carter C, Read EJ, Leitman S, Gress R. Allogeneic lymphocytes induce tumor regression of advanced metastatic breast cancer. J Clin Oncol. 2004 Oct 1;22(19):3886-92.

9)Divino CM, Chen SH, Yang W, Thung S, Brower ST, Woo SL. Anti-tumor immunity induced by interleukin-12 gene therapy in a metastatic model of breast cancer is mediated by natural killer cells. Breast Cancer Res Treat. 2000 Mar;60(2):129-34.

10)Joshi SS, Tarantolo SR, Kuszynski CA, Kessinger A. Antitumor therapeutic potential of activated human umbilical cord blood cells against leukemia and breast cancer. Clin Cancer Res. 2000 Nov;6(11):4351-8.

11)Hayashi T, Hideshima T, Akiyama M, Podar K, Yasui H, Raje N, Kumar S, Chauhan D, Treon SP, Richardson P, Anderson KC. Molecular mechanisms whereby immunomodulatory drugs activate natural killer cells: clinical application. Br J Haematol. 2005 Jan;128(2):192-203.

12)Borg C, Terme M, Taieb J, Menard C, Flament C, Robert C, Maruyama K, Wakasugi H, Angevin E, Thielemans K, Le Cesne A, Chung-Scott V, Lazar V, Tchou I, Crepineau F, Lemoine F, Bernard J, Fletcher JA, Turhan A, Blay JY, Spatz A, Emile JF, Heinrich MC, Mecheri S, Tursz T, Zitvogel L. Novel mode of action of c-kit tyrosine kinase inhibitors leading to NK cell-dependent antitumor effects. J Clin Invest. 2004 Aug;114(3):379-88.

13)Kubo M, Morisaki T, Matsumoto K, Tasaki A, Yamanaka N, Nakashima H, Kuroki H, Nakamura K, Nakamura M, Katano M. Paclitaxel probably enhances cytotoxicity of natural killer cells against breast carcinoma cells by increasing perforin production. Cancer Immunol Immunother. 2005 May;54(5):468-76. Epub 2004 Dec 9.

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Unlock Stage 4 Breast Cancer and Stage 4 Cancer with New Immunotherapy Technique - Health - Cancer

=> New Immunotherapy Strengthens Fight Against Stage 4 Breast Cancer and Stage 4 Cancer

The field of cancer immunology is now more than 30 years old and has developed rapidly, particularly over the last 10 years. Immunotherapy, the use of the stimulated immune system to fight off disease, has branched out into different subsets including immune system growth factors, monoclonal antibodies, cellular therapies, and even combinations of two or more of these strategies. Recent advances in adoptive immunotherapy (focused on the expansion of specific disease-fighting white blood cells and their infusion into patients) have led to breakthrough discoveries that will profoundly impact the treatment of stage 4 breast and other stage 4 cancer over the next decade.

=> Traditional Breast Cancer Protocols Come Up Far Too Short Bring About Stage 4 Breast Cancer and Stage 4 Cancer

Breast cancer treatment in the early stages has, for an extensive period of time, been mostly confined to lumpectomy, combined with radio and chemotherapy to increase survival. With late stage breast cancer or stage 4 breast cancer we typically witness a similar focus, however, it is not uncommon to see additional forms of radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatments if the patient had grown refractory to the initial regimen.

Immunotherapy provides an innovative way of targeting metastasis and pinpointing the primary site all at one time. Data clearly shows that as tumors and cancer stages progress so do immune blocking mechanisms deemed(up regulated) by cancers to self-protect. By depleting such negative factors and integrating a specialized cancer vaccine that employs the body's own natural killer cells - Envita has instituted a powerful and ambitious method designed to tackle stage 4 breast cancer.

=> Breast Cancer Immunotherapy Led by Envita

Litanies of published studies have demonstrated the effects of adoptive immune therapy in cancer patients. Envita's renowned medical establishment has assessed the most favorable of these studies and focused on the core strengths and weaknesses of each. Their findings established a protocol that definitively imbues only the ultimate procedures for the expansion and application of cells as a powerful immune therapy. Our protocols are based on the most recent published research in the field, from some of the most esteemed hospitals and universities nationwide and around the world.

=> The Cells That Cancer Fears Important for Stage 4 Breast Cancer and Stage 4 Cancer

It is decidedly common knowledge among scientists and physicians that three types of white blood cells can be activated by the immune system to kill cancer cells: cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), natural killer cells (NKs), and natural killer T cells (NKTs). These cells can be found circulating in the body in low amounts; however, they are clearly a major first-line immune system cancer defense.

=> Stage 4 Breast Cancer Patients and Stage 4 Cancer and Natural Killer Cells

=> Natural Killer Cells Vital to Stage 4 Breast Cancer and Stage 4 Cancer Patients

Natural killer cells have been successfully expanded from patients via advanced laboratory techniques - providing the necessary cellular resources for effective immunotherapy, despite impairments in cell numbers and function prior to immunotherapy treatment.3,5 Published research from Stanford University, the Mayo Clinic, and Harvard University has recently illustrated and supported the importance of natural killer cells and natural killer T cells in patients with cancer.

=> Envita Immunotherapy - Giving Stage 4 Breast Cancer the "One-Two" Punch

Envita Natural Medical Center is currently utilizing NK cells and CTLs as supportive immunotherapy for cancer patients. Envita's proprietary immune therapy vaccine is referenced as AAIT (for autologous adoptive immune therapy,) and there are 4 major cell types involved - the overall majority being natural killer cells and T cells. The types of cells that make up Envita's treatment are hence listed below:

=> Natural killer cells=> Natural killer T cells=> Cytokine-induced killer cells=> Cytotoxic T lymphocytes

The vaccine(s) is compiled by expanding a patient's own antitumor immune cells into the billions. These cells are then analyzed for activation markers and tested for their ability to eradicate cancer cells in the laboratory, then subsequently re-infused into the patient.

Enhancement of the immune system is a major benefit in the stampede against cancer, but this vaccine-driven routine may be added upon through subtraction. Simply stated, we can indeed improve results by not only bolstering critical components of the immune system, but simultaneously depleting it of negative factors that impede its functionality.It is common knowledge that cancer cells effect the release of T-regulatory cells, or "negative T cells." The numbers of these cells correlate directly with specific cancer stages - respective to each cancer type. The more advanced the cancer, the higher the T-regulatory cells.

Naturally, through intervention and acting to deplete these cells, along with other key enzymes that block critical immune system, cancer cell-killing action will be accelerated exponentially. Imagine one's immune system being targeted and at the ready, yet something in the body suddenly applies the brakes. This is precisely what most advanced cancer patients are confronted with, regarding high regulatory T cells. Envita's treatment protocols create a targeted vaccine by incorporating the body's most powerful cancer killers, but also depletes the portion of the immune system that inhibits the body from functioning efficiently. Be advised, there is no treatment (conventional or alternative) that can be effective in the later stages of cancer if these negative T-cells are not effectively down-regulated.

Unlike other immune therapies found in the published literature, Envita's AAIT can be used as a solo treatment. AAIT can also be administered in conjunction with additional therapies that will serve to enhance the effects of cells once they are in the patient. This is a key improvement over many of the studies in the published scientific literature. Envita's AAIT therapy is not just focused on expansion of cells in the laboratory; the ultimate goal is to also keep them activated after they are infused back into the body.

=> AAIT Available at Envita Mexico

The activated natural killer cells in Envita's AAIT are considerably more effective in the realm of tumor obliteration than other similar treatments offered in Mexico or across the globe. Backed by scientific research and clinical results, Envita's AAIT offers a powerful option for breast cancer patients who are looking to fight cancer while keeping their immune system intact. If you have any questions concerning Envita's AAIT, please consult with our team of physicians and patient educators. This particular therapy is offered in Envita Mexico's international cancer center.

=> References

1) Balch CM, Tilden AB, Dougherty PA, Cloud GA. Depressed levels of granular lymphocytes with natural killer (NK) cell function in 247 cancer patients. Ann Surg. 1983 Aug;198(2):192-9.

2) Konjevic G, Spuzic I. Evaluation of different effects of sera of breast cancer patients on the activity of natural killer cells. J Clin Lab Immunol. 1992;38(2):83-93.

3) Caras I, Grigorescu A, Stavaru C, Radu DL, Mogos I, Szegli G, Salageanu A. Evidence for immune defects in breast and lung cancer patients. Cancer Immunol Immunother. 2004 Dec;53(12):1146-52.

4) Garner WL, Minton JP, James AG, Hoffmann CC. Human breast cancer and impaired NK cell function. J Surg Oncol. 1983 Sep;24(1):64-6.

5) Crough T, Purdie DM, Okai M, Maksoud A, Nieda M, Nicol AJ. Modulation of human Valpha24(+)Vbeta11(+) NKT cells by age, malignancy and conventional anticancer therapies. Br J Cancer. 2004 Nov 29;91(11):1880-6.

6) Strayer DR, Carter WA, Brodsky I. Familial occurrence of breast cancer is associated with reduced natural killer cytotoxicity. Breast Cancer Res Treat. 1986;7(3):187-92.

7) deMagalhaes-Silverman M, Donnenberg A, Lembersky B, Elder E, Lister J, Rybka W, Whiteside T, Ball E. Posttransplant adoptive immunotherapy with activated natural killer cells in patients with metastatic breast cancer. J Immunother. 2000 Jan;23(1):154-60.

8) Bishop MR, Fowler DH, Marchigiani D, Castro K, Kasten-Sportes C, Steinberg SM, Gea-Banacloche JC, Dean R, Chow CK, Carter C, Read EJ, Leitman S, Gress R. Allogeneic lymphocytes induce tumor regression of advanced metastatic breast cancer. J Clin Oncol. 2004 Oct 1;22(19):3886-92.

9) Divino CM, Chen SH, Yang W, Thung S, Brower ST, Woo SL. Anti-tumor immunity induced by interleukin-12 gene therapy in a metastatic model of breast cancer is mediated by natural killer cells. Breast Cancer Res Treat. 2000 Mar;60(2):129-34.

10) Joshi SS, Tarantolo SR, Kuszynski CA, Kessinger A. Antitumor therapeutic potential of activated human umbilical cord blood cells against leukemia and breast cancer. Clin Cancer Res. 2000 Nov;6(11):4351-8.

11) Hayashi T, Hideshima T, Akiyama M, Podar K, Yasui H, Raje N, Kumar S, Chauhan D, Treon SP, Richardson P, Anderson KC. Molecular mechanisms whereby immunomodulatory drugs activate natural killer cells: clinical application. Br J Haematol. 2005 Jan;128(2):192-203.

12 Borg C, Terme M, Taieb J, Menard C, Flament C, Robert C, Maruyama K, Wakasugi H, Angevin E, Thielemans K, Le Cesne A, Chung-Scott V, Lazar V, Tchou I, Crepineau F, Lemoine F, Bernard J, Fletcher JA, Turhan A, Blay JY, Spatz A, Emile JF, Heinrich MC, Mecheri S, Tursz T, Zitvogel L. Novel mode of action of c-kit tyrosine kinase inhibitors leading to NK cell-dependent antitumor effects. J Clin Invest. 2004 Aug;114(3):379-88.

13) Kubo M, Morisaki T, Matsumoto K, Tasaki A, Yamanaka N, Nakashima H, Kuroki H, Nakamura K, Nakamura M, Katano M. Paclitaxel probably enhances cytotoxicity of natural killer cells against breast carcinoma cells by increasing perforin production. Cancer Immunol Immunother. 2005 May;54(5):468-76. Epub 2004 Dec 9.

==onlinebreastcancertreatment==

Read more >>

Key Immunotherapy Treatment in Stage 4 Breast Cancer and Stage 4 Cancer - Health - Cancer

=> Stage 4 Breast Cancer and stage 4 cancer Outcomes Strengthened Through Immunotherapy

The field of cancer immunology is ostensibly greater than 30 years old and has developed with fervor, particularly over the last 10 years. Immunotherapy, the management of the stimulated immune system to ward off disease, has systematically branched into given subsets including immune system growth factors, monoclonal antibodies, cellular therapies, and even combinations of two or more of these strategies. Recent advances in adoptive immunotherapy (zeroing in on the expansion of specific disease-fighting white blood cells and their infusion into needy patients) have led to renowned discoveries that shall profoundly impact the treatment of stage 4 breast cancer and other stage 4 cancer over the upcoming decade.

=> Stage 4 Breast Cancer Protocols - Traditional Approach Begs Improvement

Breast cancer treatment early on, has, for quite some time, been focused on lumpectomy combined with radio and chemotherapy to increase survival rates, With late stage breast cancer we typically notice a similar approach, however, it is not uncommon to see added forms of radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatments if the patient had grown refractory (not responding) to the first regimen.

Immunotherapy inculcates a totally new way of confronting metastasis and focusing on the primary site all at once. Collective data clearly shows that as tumors and cancer stages progress so do immune blocking mechanisms devised (up regulated) by cancers to self-protect. By depleting such negative factors and developing a specialized cancer vaccine which regulates the body's own natural killer cells - Envita has a powerful and innovative method poised to reckon with stage 4 breast cancer and stage 4 cancer.

=> Stage 4 Breast Cancer Immunotherapy Led by Envita

=> Cancer's "Natural Born" Killers for Stage 4 Breast Cancer and Stage 4 Cancer

It is common agreed among scientists and physicians that three types of white blood cells can be activated by the immune system to marginalize cancer cells: cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), natural killer cells (NKs), and natural killer T cells (NKTs). These cells are generally found circulating in the body in limited amounts; however, they are a notable first-line immune system cancer defense

=> Stage 4 Breast Cancer Patients and Natural Killer Cells

Historically,(over the past 20 years), research studies have repeatedly illustrated that breast cancer patients maintain lower levels of natural killer cells than healthy individuals.1-3 Additionally, NK and NKT function is remarkably limited in persons with breast cancer, meaning that the immune system suffers a severe impaired state.2-5

Research also affirms that progression of disease in these patients is associated with decreasing NK activity, and that persons with a significant family history of breast cancer had lower NK cell activity than those with minor family history of breast cancer.4,6 This primarily suggests that defects in NK activity itself may actually contribute to the onset of breast cancer.6 Minus conjecture, breast cancer patients typically have low levels of interferon-gamma, a major growth factor for NK cells that is naturally produced by the body.3

=> Natural Killer Cells Vital to Stage 4 Cancer Patients

Despite the impairments in NK and NKT cell number and function readily seen in cancer patients, these cells have been successfully enhanced via advanced laboratory techniques - providing the necessary cellular resources for effective immunotherapy.3,5 Published findings from Stanford University, the Mayo Clinic, and Harvard University have recently illustrated and supported the importance of natural killer cells and natural killer T cells in patients ridden with cancer.

In fact, adoptive immunotherapy composed of NK cell infusions has the virtual capacity to cause clinical regressions in patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease, and leukemia. Moreover, NK cells and cytotoxic T lymphocytes have also been utilized in breast cancer patients with clinical successes noted.7,8 Furthermore ,in those patients with metastatic breast cancer, NK infusion was well-tolerated and resulted in complete response in 20% of patients.7 In 6 out of 16 patients infused with activated T lymphocytes, objective tumor regressions were observed.8 In animal models of breast cancer, the anti-tumor effects of agents such as interleukin-2 and interleukin-12 were determined to be dependent on NK cells.9,10 Pointedly, the presence of activated NK cells and other tumor-fighting immune cells have proven to be key factors in the response of cancer patients to drugs such as thaliodomide, Gleevec, and paclitaxel.11-13

=> Envita's Two-fold Stage 4 Breast Cancer Immunotherapy and Stage 4 Cancer Treatment

Envita Natural Medical Center is, in real time, utilizing NK cells and CTLs as supportive immunotherapy for cancer patients. Envita's proprietary immune therapy vaccine is aptly named AAIT (presumptively, autologous adoptive immune therapy,) and there are 4 major cell types involved - the great majority being natural killer cells and T cells. The types of cells that make up Envita's treatment are listed as follows:

=> Natural killer cells=> Natural killer T cells=> Cytokine-induced killer cells=> Cytotoxic T lymphocytes

The vaccine(s) is advanced by growing a patient's own antitumor immune cells into the billions. These cells are then analyzed for activation markers and checked for their ability to abort cancer cells in the laboratory, then re-infused into the patient.

Enhancing the immune system is a major boon to suppressing cancer, but this vaccine-driven routine may be emboldened through subtraction. Simply, we can improve results by not only bolstering critical components of the immune system, but simultaneously depleting it of negative factors that impede its functionality. It is well documented that cancer cells effect the release of T-regulatory cells, or "negative T cells. The multiplication of these cells correlate directly with specific cancer stages - respective to each cancer type. The more advanced the cancer, the higher the T-regulatory cells.

Naturally, by interceding and acting to deplete these cells, along with other notable enzymes that block critical immune system, cancer cell-killing ability will be expedited exponentially. Imagine an immune system erstwhile targeted and ready to go, yet something in the body randomly applies the brakes. This is in fact what most advanced cancer patients are experiencing with regard to high regulatory T cells. Envita's treatment protocols assemble a targeted vaccine by using the body's most powerful cancer killers, but also depletes the portion of the immune system that inhibits the body from functioning efficiently in such regard.

Case in point, there is without question, no treatment (conventional or alternative), that can be effective in the later stages of cancer if these negative T-cells are not effectively down-regulated.

Unlike other immune therapies published in scientific literature, Envita's AAIT can be used as a lone treatment. AAIT can also be given in conjunction with other therapies that will serve to enhance the effects of cells once they are present in the patient. This is a profound improvement over many of the published studies in the research literature. Envita's AAIT therapy is not just focused on expanding cells in the laboratory; the ultimate goal is to expand them and continue activation after they are infused back into the body.

AAIT Available at Envita Mexico

The activated natural killer cells in Envita's AAIT are deemed more effective in the realm of tumor obliteration than other similar treatments touted in Mexico or across the globe. Supported by scientific research and clinical results, Envita's AAIT offers a powerful option for breast cancer patients who are hoping to fight cancer while keeping their immune system intact. If you have particular questions regarding Envita's AAIT, please consult with our team of physicians and patient educators. This favorable therapy is offered in Envita Mexico's international cancer center.

References

1)Balch CM, Tilden AB, Dougherty PA, Cloud GA. Depressed levels of granular lymphocytes with natural killer (NK) cell function in 247 cancer patients. Ann Surg. 1983 Aug;198(2):192-9.

2)Konjevic G, Spuzic I. Evaluation of different effects of sera of breast cancer patients on the activity of natural killer cells. J Clin Lab Immunol. 1992;38(2):83-93.

3)Caras I, Grigorescu A, Stavaru C, Radu DL, Mogos I, Szegli G, Salageanu A. Evidence for immune defects in breast and lung cancer patients. Cancer Immunol Immunother. 2004 Dec;53(12):1146-52.

4)Garner WL, Minton JP, James AG, Hoffmann CC. Human breast cancer and impaired NK cell function. J Surg Oncol. 1983 Sep;24(1):64-6.

6)Strayer DR, Carter WA, Brodsky I. Familial occurrence of breast cancer is associated with reduced natural killer cytotoxicity. Breast Cancer Res Treat. 1986;7(3):187-92.

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Minggu, 22 April 2012

ORBS - A New Era in Breast Cancer Surgery - Health - Cancer

Breast cancer is the commonest cancer amongst the Indian women and an estimated 400,000 women die annually from this disease worldwide. Though the mortality rates have fallen over last two decades, the incidence continues to rise with an average life time risk of approx.10 %. The incidence recorded in Delhi is 24.8 new cases of breast cancer a year per 100,000 women which rose to 32.2 in 2005. The incidence begins to rise in the early thirties of age and reaches a peak in the 50-65 age group of the population. The risk of breast cancer approximately doubles if woman has a first-degree relative (mother, sister, and daughter) who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. The most significant risk factors for breast cancer are gender (being a woman) and age (growing older). About 90% of breast cancers are due to genetic abnormalities that happen as a result of the aging process and life in general.About 20-30% of women diagnosed with breast cancer have a family history of breast cancer. About 5-10% of breast cancers are caused by gene mutations inherited from mother or father. Mutations of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are the most common. Women with these mutations have up to an 80% risk of developing breast cancer during their lifetime and they often are diagnosed at a younger age (before age 50). The early diagnosis of Breast cancer plays an instrumental role to achieve a cure for this cancer. The Era of surgical management started with supraradical operations down to Radical operations i.e. Traditional Halsted mastectomy then came an era of modified approach. These aggressive surgical operations have not shown any improvement in overall survival (OS). Patients used to have not only a psychological trauma but in long-term they have lots of other complications like Lymph edema of arm etc. To overcome these shortcomings of aggressive approach, we started the conservative surgery. Then favorable results were reported as an outcome of largest long term trials which demonstrated comparable survival which is independent of the surgical modality i.e. mastectomy versus BCT. This overview has prompted us to incorporate the aesthetic approach in conservative surgeries for Breast Cancer. This has led a new era in the surgical management of Breast Cancer and the modality is called an ORBS.

ORBS mean oncoplastic and reconstructive Breast surgery. Oncoplastic surgery combines Oncosurgical principles with plastic surgical techniques.

The oncoplastic concept is a wave of future for surgical management of Breast Cancer. This is a fast emerging and most innovative technique which has not only changed the surgical management of Breast cancer but had alleviated psychological trauma of loosing their breast or living with disfigured breast. Gone are the days when surgeons simply left the cavity to fill with haematoma or allow forming a seroma. The oncoplastic surgery is becoming an essential skill for all dedicated Breast Surgeons, or General Surgeon and Plastic Surgeon in combination.Today, breast conserving therapy has become the standard of care for many women diagnosed with breast cancer. Till now we were practicing the Breast conserving Surgery a part of Standard BCT where the primary treatment is partial mastectomy (Lumpectomy or Quadrantectomy) with adjuvant radiation and chemotherapy. But the incidence of poor cosmetic results is relatively high with standard BCT. Now the oncoplastic technique has not only preserved the breast but maintains a breast that is aesthetic, symmetrical, and well shaped. The poor planning in breast conserving surgery (BCT) had resulted some times an unacceptable deformity. This technique eliminates the poor cosmetic results after wide excision of the Tumor. Oncoplastic resection is a therapeutic procedure, not a breast biopsy. It is performed on patients with a proven diagnosis of breast cancer. Our main goal is to go to the operating room a single time and to perform a definitive procedure that does not require re-operation. Whenever possible the initial breast biopsy, should be made using a minimally invasive percutaneous technique i.e. vacuum assisted syringe and needle or a core biopsy. The cut of core biopsy is very small and can be closed with a Steri Strip.The ORBS is basically a lumpectomy or quadrantectomy combined with rotating the same breast tissue or mobilizing the flap to fill up the resected cavity in one surgical procedure at th e same time. It also includes to correct the comparative change in shape and size in relation to unaffected breast and if need arises reshaping the unaffected breast. The deferred plan of reconstruction is not included in the oncoplastic technique. Both the procedures are carried out by dedicated breast surgeon. PRINCIPLE:The goal of breast reconstruction after Tumor resection is to improve the appearance when the woman is full clothed and avoids the external prosthesis. The oncoplastic technique extends the scope for conserving surgery by combing an extensive local excision of the breast parenchyma with a simultaneous reconstruction of the defect to avoid local deformity. This technique does not compromise oncological principles as it gives a free hand to the Onco Breast surgeon.

The sole guiding factor for the evolution of this technique was that we might have compromise the oncological principle for effective local control to achieve the cosmetic results while operating the patient with standard BCT. Secondly Standard BCT may produce the poor cosmetic results which may be difficult to correct after the radiotherapy.

Broadly it means the adaptation of breast reduction and mastopexy techniques to some of the cancer surgery procedure.

The ORBS uses either the adjoining breast tissue which is rotated to fill the defect at the time of Lumpectomy or larger "quadrantectomy" procedures or transfer the tissue from distant area by means of Flap which serves dual purposes to fill up the cavity and cover the skin loss.We have to take in account the potential delay in adjuvant treatment which may occur as a result of complications.Secondly, we have to consider the adverse effect of adjuvant treatment upon the reconstruction.Decision of the patientAll the patients who are opting for ORBS must be informed in details about this technique so that she can take a suitable decision herself. These patients usually have very high expectations about the out come of reconstruction. She should be aware of potential long term implications, may require multiple surgical procedures in case she wants Nipple - Areola reconstruction.The women who decide against immediate reconstruction should be told about the delayed reconstructi on also.

Sometimes women may be benefited with the service of psychologist who help them through the decision making process. The patient has to be told about the scaring, loss of sensation, changes at any donor site, or complications of surgery. The family and the partner of the patient should be equally involved. It have been observed that women opting ORBS over mastectomy are more concern about their body image and strongly believe for good figured breast a necessity for their good image. They react very badly to the idea of losing the breast. The personality characteristics also influence a woman's decision. An Informed Consent The pre-operative preparation, assessment and type of Anesthesia are the same as for other operations but of course the risk factor should be recorded.IndicationsORBS should be considered in those patients where adequate local excision can not be achieved without significant risk of local deformity. This usually happens:(1)When wide resection has to be d one for central, medial and inferior quadrant tumor. (2) When there is a loss of more than 20% breast volume.(3) When we undertake axillary dissection through lumpectomy excision. (4)When a woman has a Large volume breast and wants a breast reduction. Contraindications:(1) Patients with inflammatory carcinoma(2) Patients with T4 tumors (3) Multicentric disease in breast (4) Extensive malignant mammographic microcalcification Selection of the reconstructive Procedure:The principle to select a reconstructive procedure depends upon three important points (1) whether we want to either replace the volume or displace the volume (2) This further depends upon the site of the tumor, extent of resection in relation to the size of opp.breast (3) The likelihood displacement of Nipple -Areola complex has to be considered. The most common reconstructive technique for volume replacement is the use of latissimus dorsi flaps.The mobilization of local glandular or dermoglandular flaps is the most accepted technique used for volume displacement.Simultaneous contra lateral reduction to achieve the symmetry is always a point for consideration. The details of above said procedures or other techniques are beyond the scope of this article and can be referred in the Text book.Advantages:(1) This technique gives us greater margins of resection -Size of the breast tissue that is excised surrounding the Tumor.(2) The inframammary fold is preserved.(3) The resulted operated area is of good quality and least scarred.(4) Both breasts will look the same.The reduced breasts are functional and have full sensation whereas the reconstructed breasts lack both. The rate of recurrences, survival (OS), and disease -free survival (DFS) with oncoplastic surgery are all equivalent to those of traditional breast cancer treatment.This technique may further widen the scope of conservative surgical treatment i.e. after Neoadjuvant chemotherapy.Disadvantage:The long term results of this technique are to be published as yet. Patients with tumor larger than 2 cm were at greater risk of local recurrences and distant metastasis but are same as for standard BCT.Procedure:The surgical procedure is depicted by the fallowing conditions:Volume Displacement (*) Planning Tumour Exision Depth(*) Glandular Flap Final Result & Implant Shown Volume Replacement(*)Planning Exition & Depth(*)Overhanging Ld Flap Final Result Review Of Literature: The published data indicates that the immediate breast reconstruction does not adversely affect breast cancer outcome. The reconstruction does interfere with further treatment and there is no significant difference in the overall survival rates between immediate or delayed reconstruction. Conclusion:To conclude this article it is stated with firmity that this technique achieves both ultimate goals: Firstly an adequate local control of the disease and good aesthetic results, secondly it provides survival equivalent to mastectomy. The oncoplastic surgery adds to the oncological safety of breast conserving treatment because a large volume of breast tissue can be excised and a wider negative margin can be obtained. It is especially indicated for large tumors, for which standard breast conserving treatment has a high probability of leaving positive margins with disfigured breast. The long term results of this technique are to be published as yet but they are comparable. It is safe to offer this technique to our women who are more concern for their body image.

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Breast Cancer Alerts - Health - Cancer

Breast Cancer, also known as Malignant Breast Neoplasm, is caused from the inner lining of the breast tissues called milk ducts or lobules. Breast cancer which primarily originates from the milk ducts is known as ductal carcinomas. However, it can also instigate from the lobules, in those cases they are called lobular carcinomas. Mostly women aged above 45 years are victims of this dreadful disease. Although 100 times less, but men are also found to be victim of breast cancer.

With the rate at which the disease is increasing its prominence, it has become very important to spread awareness against this ailment. Breast cancer awareness programme have been initiated in different places with a motive to protect and create awareness about the disease amongst women. October is recognized as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month around the world.

Proper and immediate treatment, right after the disease is diagnosed is very important. There are several breast cancer treatment centers all over the world which are equipped to fight the ailment. The treatment for breast cancer is usually surgery along with radiation or chemotherapy. In some cases where breast cancer is due to hormones like estrogen or/and progesterone, the treatment is done by blocking off the effects of these hormones in the target tissue.

There are several symptoms that can be very useful for recognizing breast cancer but the most important breast cancer symptom is the feeling of a lump in the breast which is unusual from the rest of the part. This lump develops through several years and the time it is noticeable it has already grown to an alarming level. Other than lump there are other symptoms as well such as, change in the size of the breast, unusual change in the shape of the breast, nipple inversion, skin dimpling, or it may be single- nipple discharge. Lumps may also be found in the armpits which can be breast cancer.

There is different stage of breast cancer, from stage 0- 4. Stage 0 is known to be the pre-malignant disease or marker, whereas Stages 13 are described as 'early' cancer and possibly curable and stage- 4 is explained as 'metastatic' or advanced cancer and is incurable.

Proper awareness and breast cancer information is very essential to avoid the disease. To avoid breast cancer each of us should be alert and should know what the sign of breast cancer is to evade it. Each woman should actively enquire about the disease and should take part in different awareness programmes to eradicate it from the core. They should search the most important breast cancer site which has most relevant information and addresses of nearest treatment centre. Dont be shy- protect yourself against this adversary.

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