Adrenocortical Carcinoma : There is never an end

What is adrenocortical carcinoma?

Adrenocortical carcinoma also called as adrenocortical cancer or cancer of the adrenal cortex, is a very rare form of cancer that originates in the outer layer of tissue of the adrenal gland. Adrenal gland is a small organ situated on the top of each kidney and is responsible for producing steroid hormones, adrenaline, and noradrenaline to control heart rate, blood pressure, and other body functions like balancing water and salt in body, controlling the body's use of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, etc.

What are the different types of adrenocortical carcinoma?

Adrenocortical cancer is usually classified as functioning or non-functioning, depending on the elaboration of adrenocortical hormones (glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, androgens, estrogens, rarely a host of possible peptides). 

• Functioning: In this form of cancer, hormones produced are more than the normal.

• Non-functioning: In this form of cancer, hormones are not produced at all.

Another classification of adrenocortical cancers divides them into the following variants:

• Sporadic, and

• Syndromic: These variants occur with multiple cancer predisposition syndromes, like Gardner syndrome, Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1, the SBLA syndrome, and Li-Fraumeni syndrome.

Other classifications are based on the cellular origin of the neoplasm.

What are the causes?

So far, no possible causes of cancer has been discovered although there is a small minority of patients with a hereditary component that can be related to genetic syndromes, such as those with p53 gene abnormalities.

Who is at risk?

Although there is no fixed scale, there are few studies that suggest that following factors may put you at more risk of getting this disease:

• If you are a female
• If you are are a child under age 5
• If you are between the age of 40-50
• In case, you have a hereditary disease that can affect your adrenal glands
• Have another form of cancer

What are the symptoms?

The exact symptoms vary depending on whether the cancer is functioning or non-functioning. The symptoms of functioning tumor depend on what hormones it is producing. For instance, if it is producing Testosterone and other androgen, you will observe increased facial and body hair and deepened voice in females; and if it is producing estrogen, you will see early signs of puberty in children. Non functioning tumors may not produce any hormonal changes or cause specific symptoms.

What are the treatments?

As with other cancers, the exact treatment procedure depends on stage of your cancer and your overall health. The usual treatments like immunotherapy for cancer, chemotherapy for cancer, surgery, radiation and biologic therapy.

The A to Z of Lung Cancer

The uncontrolled and abnormal growth of cells in the tissues of the human lungs is known as lung cancer. If it is left untreated, this malicious growth spreads beyond to other tissues and body parts, through a process known as metastasis.

In normal conditions, the human body maintains a system of check and balance on the growth of cells, i.e. new cells are produced only when they are needed. However, under atypical circumstances, this system gets disrupted, resulting in an uncontrolled multiplication of cells, which eventually leads to the formation of a mass like tumor.

Tumors can be malignant or benign, so when we are talking in terms of cancer, the malignant ones are being referred to. These tumors have an aggressive growth and invade the body in a very life threatening way.

The two main types of lung cancer-

1.       Small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC)

2.       Non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC)

Causes of lung cancer-

There are various causes responsible for lung cancer. Broadly, they can be categorized as under-

1.     Main cause of Lung cancer- Smoking is one of the leading causes of lung cancer. Tobacco use for an extended period causes about 80-90% cases of lung cancers. Tobacco contains approximately 4000 chemical compounds, of which polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and nitrosamines are the primary cancer-causing agents.

Passive Smoking - Inhaling smoke from external sources by nonsmokers is known as passive smoking. It is also a well known factor in the growth of lung cancer. Residing with a cigarette smoker significantly increase your chances of contracting the disease.

2.       Asbestos - Exposure to asbestos causes a number of lung ailments, lung cancer being one of them. In old times, one’s workplace was a major source of getting exposed to it, however, its use has been banned in a number of countries, considering its fatal effect on people’s health.

3.       Radon Gas - When radioactive radium faces a breakdown, it generates an odorless and colorless gas known as Radon gas. It is a product of naturally decayed uranium. It emits a kind of ionizing radiation, and travels through soil to enter homes due to gaps in drains, pipes, foundations and several other openings.

4.       Air Pollution - Not as significant as the other factors, but extreme and constant exposure to exhaust fumes can cause lung cancer in some people.

5.       Genetics - The genetic susceptibility of certain individuals makes them prone to lung cancer. Studies have shown that both non smoking and smoking people have developed the ailment due to familial history.

How is Lung Cancer treated at Cancer Healer Center?

Really effective against lung cancer, Cancer healer brings a remarkable improvement even during the last stages of the ailment. It works in unification with radiotherapy, chemotherapy and operations, without causing any kind of side effects.  

Use Your Body to Fight Cancer

Is the Cure of Cancer inside us?

The answer to this question is YES. The power to fight Cancer is within us. We can use our own immune system to fight against the cause. Immunotherapy for cancer treatment is one of the most recent advances in Cancer therapy. It is a new class of cancer treatment that works to harness the innate powers of the immune system to fight cancer. Traditional tools in the fight against cancer include radiation, chemotherapy & surgery.These treatments destroy the cancer cells by poisoning them (chemotherapy), removing them (surgery) or burning them (radiation). The use of these treatments can effectively remove or kill cancer cells but their efficacy is limited. Healthy cells also tend to be destroyed through these treatments. This often results in morbidity of the patients treated with them & in the worst of cases; it can sometimes result in the patient’s death.Immunotherapy is the painless treatment approach that empowers the human immune system to fight cancer, infection and other diseases. This therapy has proven effective in the fight against cancer.

There are two types of Immunotherapy for cancer: Active & Passive.

a) Active Immunotherapy for cancer treatment: This therapy engages the immune system & is potentially durable.

b) Passive Immunotherapy for cancer treatment: This therapy enhances pre-existing immune response & has a short life. 

Monoclonal Antibodies, Cytokines, Therapeutic Vaccines and Checkpoint Inhibitors can be used to treat certain cancers. Such immunotherapies have the potential to attack & destroy foreign bodies causing cancer. Immunotherapy can be used by itself to treat cancer, but it is more effective when used in the combination with traditional treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery.

Following benefits of Immunotherapy makes it different from the conventional approaches:

1. Non-Toxic as compared to Radiation, Chemotherapy & Surgery.
2. Chemotherapy & Radiotherapy have the high probability of killing the normal cells in addition to cancer cells. Normal cells are taken care of properly by Immunotherapy.
3.  Prevents cancer cells from growing rapidly.
4. Painless treatment. It involves no side-effects. Provides relief from hair loss, vomiting, nausea and  infections.
5. Offers a different mode of attack on tumor, thereby affording both patients & doctors a potential new treatment in the battle against cancer

Cancer Healer experts believe that every cancer patient has the right to be informed about this new therapy.  It is the duty of every oncologist to educate the patient about cancer, all treatment options available in the country or outside. This therapy is used to boost or restore the ability of the immune system to fight against cancer. This treatment mobilizes the body’s own powerful anticancer mechanisms to achieve the durable response.

Cure cancer with Immunotherapy- A painless cancer treatment. It is based on the generally accepted hypothesis that the immune system is the best tool humans have for fighting disease. Win the war against cancer with your immune system.

Coping with Cancer

Steps to Help You Cope With Cancer

When someone first hears that they have been detected with cancer, the news hits them like a ball of fire. People tend to become morose, miserable and low. However, an important thing to remember here is that being diagnosed with cancer is not the end of the world. Cancer is treatable and people with cancer lead normal lives post getting cured.

Firstly, don’t lose your calm when you discover that you've been affected with cancer. Think of it as just some unwanted growth on your body like a few bad cells that need to be thrown out so that the your body can be restored to its normal functionality.

How cancer is born in your body?

There are billions of cells in the human body. These grow, divide and ultimately die in a typical fashion. Cancer results when the abnormal cells divide uncontrollably anywhere in your body such as bones, lungs, liver, etc.

Coping with Cancer-

1. Detoxify your system- An important step towards cancer elimination is the removal of toxins from your

a) daily diet for Cancer Patients- eat food that is grown organically and is not chlorinated.

b) surroundings- use of natural and non toxic cleansers, furniture, cosmetics, clothing, etc.

You can detox with juice feasts (by drinking vegetable and fruit juices), water fasts, etc.

2. Exercise/engage in physical activity to increase your blood flow-

Poor circulation is a result of poor oxygenation. Cells become cancerous when they are oxygen deficient. Exercise or any kind of physical activity (for example, a good walk or a class of water aerobics) increases circulation in your body which improves oxygenation thereby helping to carry nutrients to your cells.

3. Appropriate Eating Habits-

A significant weapon in your cancer battling arsenal is diet. Even though your diet isn't what it used to be, it is crucial to not compromise on nutrition. Increase your consumption of organic foods to minimize toxins. Avoid using artificial sweeteners, refined grains and sugar. Instead, hunt for healthy sweeteners and use them.

4. Consume alkaline foods-

Reduce your intake of meats, junk foods, fried foods, alcohol, coffee, etc. And maximize the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables. The body heals itself through a vegetarian, organic diet that included fresh juices and natural supplements.

5. Fight Fatigue-

Fatigue is basically tiredness which can be fought effectively with a good sleep. A restful sleep can lower pain and stress. Try going to sleep at the same time everyday, this will help you build a proper sleeping pattern.

Following the above tips will greatly aid you in winning your battle against cancer.

Oesophageal Cancer Can Be Treated and Prevented

India witnesses maximum cases of oesophageal cancer. This is due to the malpractice of tobacco chewing and ‘bidi’ smoking. But, the good news is that 60% of cancer can be cured, as per Dr. Praful  B. Desai, Senior Surgical Oncologist.

Oesophageal cancer can be prevented. All we need to do is not smoke or chew tobacco products. This is one form of cancer that we give ourselves. Pan, gutka, biddhi are a part of Indian customary vices especially amongst rural and lower middle class. The tobacco and nicotine overdose damages the esophageal lining and eventually causes cancer.

Dr. Praful B Desai is of the opinion that cancer can be treated if diagnosed early. Appropriate treatment plan is mandatory.

What are the common procedures to treat esophageal cancer?

1. Chemotherapy
2. Radiation Therapy
3. Esophagectomy

Why is Immunotherapy better option?

It is known that along with cancer the adverse effect of conventional treatment plan are many.

Chemotherapy causes physical discomfort of aches, swelling, and nausea, loss of appetite and hair fall.

Radiation Therapy can increase exposure to high range radiation and developing new cancers.

Surgery like Esophagectomy is a procedure to removing a part of the food pipe. This is painful, expensive and physical discomfort is possible.

Immunotherapy is a non-invasive treatment option. It has been listed on top of list as best medical research invention of 2013, as per Science Journal. The medications enhance the immune system of the body to attack the cancer cells. There are absolutely no side-effects and chances of survival are very high.

Can oesophageal cancer be prevented?

Yes. Education the masses and informing them about the disease is a must. Cancer Healer team is dedicated to imparting knowledge to people on cancer, disease and management. Learning about beast steps to keeping healthy, eating right, exercise, maintaining biometrics, and controlling blood pressure along with avoiding carcinogens like tobacco is important.

How Mira Fought Cancer?

An aspiring story of Cancer Survivor on this Christmas

Mira is my buddy. We have been best of friends since 11th grade. Our parents nicknamed us ‘Siamese Twins’ as we were inseparable.

We had the same interests, similar hobbies and took up common educational courses. Life is fun when you have a friend who shares your passion and laugh about the little quirks of the day.

Nothing changed since 11th grade until the Christmas of 2011 when Mira suddenly seemed distracted. She didn’t have the same zest in life. We didn’t enjoy shopping sprees as she would get tired and nauseous after a meal. I could visibly see her pallor changing. She seemed sick.

I confronted her. Mira confessed, she was undergoing Chemotherapy for a tumor in her ovaries. I was devastated. Cancer was in our lives, our friendship. I couldn’t bear to lose a friend to cancer. We had plans, to get married on the same day, plan babies together, retire with a bakery shop.

All seemed far away. But, I am an optimistic person at heart. Nothing is impossible. “We will fight cancer, Mira”; I said to her on Christmas 2011. Today we are cancer free, our lives are cancer free.

How Did Mira Do It? Well, there’s lots that goes in to fighting cancer , this is how we did it:

Firstly, Mira and I started walking together. A time was fixed in the day and we always make sure we go for long walks, at whatever pace she can manage.

Secondly, we have hired a yoga instructor for the weekends. Every Saturday and Sunday , we have yoga sessions at Mira’s house where both our families join in for distress sessions and laughter exercise. We laugh our worries out, aloud.

Thirdly, the diet session with a cancer specialist dietitian was very helpful. All processed foods are banned in our homes. All produce is now bought locally and organic. Fried, Trans fatty acids and leftovers are not tolerated. Deviations and parties are allowed but we are all snob eaters now. It has to be fresh, natural and healthy else we rather not binge.

Next, all carcinogens were identified and avoided around our homes. Deodorants, fumes, agarbattis are no longer allowed in both our homes. Dust mites are cleaned up well. Mosquito repellents and floor cleaners are made using dried neem leaves; boiled and sprayed.

Most importantly, holistic healing was opted for. Immunotherapy instead of chemotherapy made Mira cancer free and she feels healthy, not sick.

Today, Mira no longer has cancer, so does both our homes. We look forward to every Christmas as a blessing and recollect our vows taken on Christmas 2011, our friendship is  cancer free.

Five Things A Cancer Patient Must Do

Cancer is dreadful. It creates an emotional imbalance of well being followed by a financial turmoil and excruciating physical pain always persists.

The disease is more than just a serious condition. Its effects are deep rooted that over-rides one’s whole faith in life.

But, Cancer Healer Team convinces every cancer patient that they can help. The doctors confidently preach and affirm that cancer can be treated; all it takes is persistence, good therapy and a positive state of mind.

Medical experts at the Immunotherapy centre Cancer Healer share the five must do’s for all cancer patients:

1. Understand your condition in depth. Do not refrain from asking your doctor on the stage of cancer in the body and probability of success rate in treatment. Second and third medical opinion will not confuse you but actually give you better perspective on your disease and choices to be made, accordingly.
2. Learn about the treatment plans available. There is plenty of information available on the online medical resource centres. It is important to have a better perspective on your cancer and learning about all available treatment options.
3. Research indicates that combination therapy works well for many cancer patients. Besides, chemotherapy, surgery and radiation there are more holistic treatment plans one can consider. For instance, immunotherapy and Ayurveda show good curative results.
4. Eat a healthy diet. Food is your medicine. There are potential healing properties in green leafy vegetables, bright fruits, sprouts and herbs. Diet is the focus in cancer healing. Eating a good meal is important. Register with a clinical dietician who will assist you in every step to treat cancer. The dietician also assists in modifying your plans based on physical symptoms or adverse effects of cancer are like nausea related to chemotherapy.
5. Live holistic. Do not demoralise yourself. Adopt a hobby, go for long nature walks, join support groups and actively socialise with positive people. Talk and let your worries out. Make friends with your spouse or partner and doctor. Connect with someone who empathizes with you.

The experts at Cancer Healer counsel the cancer patient and family at every step. Moral boosting is the first medication along with Immunotherapy medication that is guaranteed to have no adverse effects.

Yuvraj Singh’s Fight Against Cancer

What would you do when one miserable day, your doctor tells you those three dreaded words, “You have cancer”. Most of us, would probably go numb for a few minutes, curse God, wonder what wrong had we done to deserve it and maybe even refuse treatment initially (yes, we’re self destructive like that). But these ways do not work. They fail to work chiefly because the human spirit is invincible, and has a way of bouncing back. The quintessential example of such an exemplary spirit  would be ace cricketer and batsman, Yuvraj Singh.

Diagnosed with a malignant tumor in the left lung in year 2011, Yuvraj’s tumor developed between his heart and lung, and is commonly referred to as seminoma. Seminoma, which commonly develops as a tumor on the reproductive organ of males, was found on the upper portion of his lungs, medically known as superior mediastinal region.

Yuvraj Singh’s memoir, The Test Of My Life, is an account of his struggle and victory over cancer, a disease, he says that “turns you upside down. In body, in mind, in spirit”. Nations favorite son and the God of cricket, Sachin Tendulkar, who formally launched Singh’s book, said, “When I went to meet him in London, I was telling my wife (Anjali) that I don't want to break down when I see him. I met him and gave him a tight hug. We enjoyed a meal and from the way he (Yuvraj) ate, I was convinced that he is back on track.” Sachin further added, “When I saw my wife discussing medical terms with Yuvraj, I realized what he has been going through. He is like my younger brother and I would ask God why it (the illness) had to happen to Yuvraj."

Over the years, Sachin and Yuvraj have played some amazing cricket together and Sachins recent retirement has left the entire nation missing him more than ever. An emotional Yuvraj commented, "It's been amazing to play with him for so many years. He is one of the greatest players to have played the game”.

Therefore, it wouldn't be wrong to say that Yuvraj Singh sets a perfect example to the millions of people suffering from cancer, because in the end, what matters is your courage and the hope to live.

Facts About Cancer and Treatments

Amazing Facts On Cancer & Treatment.

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• Venom of the Blue Scorpion is used to create a drug called Escozine by Medolife to treat cancer. The manufactures claim 80% success rate in treating cancer patients but American Oncologists are sceptical as it is not yet approved by FDA.
• Five risk factors to curb cancer should be taught in school- reducing high body mass index, increasing fruit and vegetable intake, more physical activity, avoiding tobacco and alcohol use.  These are five behavioural and dietary risks that contribute to about 30 per cent of cancer deaths in India.
• Healthcare Global, a centre for cancer treatment, has introduced a mobile application for women as a progressive initiative to help them detect early signs of breast cancer.
• The combination treatment of thermotherapy and chemotherapy may significantly increase the rate of the treatment of cancerous tumor.
• Pancreatic cancer is considered one of the most fatal forms of cancer due to the fact that it is not as easily detected and diagnosed as other cancers like breast and lung cancer. November is International Pancreatic Cancer Awareness month. But a new study suggests that a simple blood test might help spot the disease earlier
• Prostate cancer is hereditary.
• Women who walk an hour every day can reduce significant chance of developing breast cancer.
• Body fat is known to trigger the release of hormones that could promote cancer development. Eat a low calorie but high fiber diet to prevent cancer growth.
• Screening for the human papillomavirus (HPV) is more effective than Pap tests for protecting women against invasive cervical cancer.

Nowadays use of Immunotherapy is increasing as it has no side effect and it is a painless treatment for any stage of cancer.