Even light drinking was associated with an increase in cancer deaths among older adults in Britain, researchers reported on Monday in a large study. But the risk was accentuated primarily in those who had existing health problems or who lived in low-income areas. Contrary to what we’ve been told in the past, light or occasional drinking not only increases the chance of cancer in older adults, but it also does not protect the heart.
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What happens to you when you get the ‘good’ type of cancer?
Sheilagh Foley travelled to Boston to the Hodgkins International Symposium to learn more about how other patients recover from this ‘good’ cancer’, and finds solace and support from doctors and other patients dealing with the disease.
Patients First: Samantha & Samuel Siegel’s Marriage of Medicine and Advocacy
I “met” Samantha Siegel, fellow Hodgkin’s survivor via Zoom last year and knew immediately that she was a true kindred spirit. “Sam” is a fierce advocate for cancer survivors. She brings both a personal and a professional perspective to the world of advocacy, with the added “plus” that her husband, Samuel, is also a survivor and a physician. I was lucky to meet both Samuel and Samantha in person in late June at the National Coalition For Cancer Survivorship’s CPAT meeting where they shared their amazing story.
Physical Exercise Prevents Nerve Damage Caused by Chemotherapy
This article describes the results of recent study published in the JAMA Internal Medicine. It explores a fairly common side effect of some cancer treaments, “chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy,” or CIPN. More than just an annoying condition, CIPN can have a significant effect on the quality of life for survivors. The study presented here offers some exciting news about possible treatments for this condition.
National Standards For Cancer Survivorship Care
Comprehensive, quality care for cancer survivors has been an elusive dream for many. It is well-recognized in the U.S. that we could be doing a MUCH better job of caring for survivors. Cancer survivorship programs have been haphazard at best and non-existent for too many people who are in desperate need of help. NCI has put forth a well-thought-out document with suggested standards of care. Questions remain regarding its enforceability, and there are still gaps in the services and research that would affect long-term survivors, but it is certainly a place to start.
Follow the Heart
Oncologists and researchers increasingly focus on how to predict, treat, and monitor for cardiovascular problems that develop before and after treatment.
Follow The Heart
Oncologists and researchers increasingly focus on how to predict, treat and monitor for cardiovascular problems that develop before and after treatment.
Study Finds Early Menopause May Be Linked to Greater Risk of Breast and Ovarian Cancers
Many women who are long-term Hodgkin’s survivors experience early menopause as a result of their radiation and chemotherapy treatments, especially if they received them at a young age. As we are already at risk for breast cancer due to the same treatments, it is important to be aware of any additional risk factors.
In The US, Cancer Survivors Form A Vocal Community. In Switzerland, Some Patients Want To Change A Culture of Silence.
In the U.S., cancer patients must often be their own health care advocates. This has helped create a community of cancer survivors that offers the long-term support Swiss patients lack. A visit with doctors, activists and patients in Chicago and Bern.
Even in remission, childhood cancer is rarely ‘done.’ A survivor’s building community around ‘long effects.’
This week’s Joy Beat honoree is proof that even in the darkest of times, when life throws you its biggest challenges, there are people who can turn moments of adversity into joy. Erin Cummings joined GBH’s All Things Considered host Arun Rath to discuss her organization and how it has helped cancer survivors find community.