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Why the Risk of Colorectal Cancer is High among Millennials

A study has observed that many young people born in the 1990s are developing colorectal cancer at alarming rates. Furthermore, millennials are likely to develop the disease twice as much compared to the young adults born in the 1950s. As for older generations, it was found that colorectal cancer incidents have dropped tremendously.   The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations state that people to start screening for colorectal cancer at age 50. But with the new developments, this could change soon. What could really be the reason behind the increasing risks in millennials? Some oncologists attribute it to the rising cultural and lifestyle shifts that have taken place during the last century. Before, people had an active and healthy lifestyle. A diet full of freshly prepared foods from the farm. Today there is less activity and a more health-threatening sedentary lifestyle that leads to obesity in the younger generation. The rates of obesity keep increa...

7 Ways to Cope with Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy comes with side effects, mostly bad. But there are ways you can reduce this side effects with these helpful tips. 1. Listen to your body Your body before and after chemotherapy is different. You may experience the following symptoms after chemotherapy : • Nausea and vomiting • Fatigue • Hair loss • Skin changes, such as dryness or swelling • Loss of appetite • Weakened immune system The best treatment can be prescribed if you know exactly what you want to cure. 2. Slow Exercise I know this is a lot given that you have just come from chemo, but walking or swimming are great ways to curb such symptoms. Swimming especially relaxes the body and you sleep better. Just wading in water is enough. 3. Medication Medications can be prescribed to you to help you manage these symptoms better, especially nausea and vomiting. Although, avoid taking many at once as they may worsen your symptoms and general mood. 4. Stay Away from The Sun After chemo, y...

Why Colorectal Cancer Cases Are High In Young Adults

New data from the National Cancer Institute shows that colorectal cancer cases are getting more prevalent in young adults today . Experts think it’s due to the modern sugary diet, sedentary lifestyles or gut microbiome changes. But these are just speculations. The causes of this rise are not clear yet. Digestive issues, feeling bloated, low energy levels, rectal bleeding, feeling nauseous and much more are all symptoms of colorectal cancer. According to statistics, more young adults are affected by rectal cancer than colon cancer. Rectal cancer requires complex treatment compared to colon cancer. Factors Contributing to the Rise ·          A few cases of colorectal cancer are caused by hereditary factors such as Lynch Syndrome, family history, sedentary lifestyles and gut microbiome changes. ·          General factors for colorectal cancer among young adults include heavy alcohol consumpti...

New Study Shows That Moderate Exercise Can Enhance Survival in Colorectal Cancer

Experts from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute carried out research to show how low-intensity exercises affect survivability among cancer patients. Published in the Journal of Oncology, the study shows that even low-intensity exercises like walking for at least four hours a week could lead to almost 20% reduction in the progression of cancer or death. Metastatic colorectal cancer patients who exercised moderately  while on going through chemotherapy had a delayed progression of the cancer. The treatment side effects were also less severe in such patients. About the Study ·           The study showed that physically active patients had better tolerance towards chemotherapy. ·           At least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity daily was associated with 27% decline in severe toxicities related to treatment. ·           Previou...

Efforts Continue to Increase Lung Cancer Screening

Lung cancer is the fastest killing cancer disease. Cancer screening is essential for patients who are 55 to 74 years of age and who did not quit smoking 15 years ago. Continuous testing among patients has many morbidity benefits. Over 15,000 patients enrolled in the NELSON trial. Half of the patients received CT screening while the other half did not receive the scan. Ten years down the trial, results showed that screening reduced lung cancer mortality by 26% and the risk of diagnosis with lung cancer was reduced by 39% to 61% during the years of follow up. What you need to know about lung cancer screening : ·          Primary considerations for screening - Patients of ages of 55 to 74 who have smoked at least a pack of cigarette each day for 30 years are eligible for cancer standard procedures and screening.   Your primary care doctor can recommend you for cancer screening, but if the patient is severely ill, screening is postpon...

4 Ways Women Can Reduce Breast Cancer Risk

Breast cancer continues to affect an increasing number of women , with about one in eight American women encountering it some time in their lives. It leaves its victims battling for life and having to redefine themselves and their femininity, often causing a huge blow to their self esteem as well. Like with every disease, the best approach is prevention. With breast cancer, prevention entails making lifestyle adjustments. These include: ·          Regular exercise Exercise has been proven to reduce the risk of breast cancer especially in women past menopause. Any exercise that raises your heart rate and makes you breathe faster for about half an hour a day, at least four to five times a week. Regular exercise helps keep weight in check and this is important since obesity is a risk factor for breast cancer. ·          Healthy eating A balanced diet is important because the nutrients in heal...

4 Ways to Take Control of Breast Cancer Risk

Breast cancer is among the common diseases that affect women’s health. Studies reveal that breast cancer affects about one in eight women in the U.S. The good news is women have an opportunity to prevent this disease. Lifestyle changes are the most effective way for women to reduce the breast cancer risk . 1. Feed on a healthy diet Women ought to maintain a balanced and healthy diet, which includes fruits, whole grains, vegetables as well as lean proteins. Vegetables and fruits have phytochemicals that protect cells against damage that may cause cancer. On the other hand, while grains can help to reduce inflammation, which may destroy healthy tissues and cells or weaken the immune system. A healthy diet is also a good source of energy for staying active. 2. Exercise often Exercising has been proved to lower breast cancer among postmenopausal women. It’s recommended you exercise for 30 minutes minimum a day and repeat it four or five times a week. The exercise may i...