Good News – More People Surviving Cancer!

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

Good News – More People Are Surviving Cancer!

The Boston Globe reported January 8th that “cancer deaths have fallen to their lowest rated since the numbers peaked in 1991,” based on a study done by the American Cancer Society.

Cancer Survivorship is a growing field offering education and specific programs addressing the long-term physical, mental-emotional, psychosocial, and financial, needs of those living with and living beyond cancer.

The Biennial Cancer Survivorship Symposium: Advancing Care and Research is taking place this weekend in San Francisco, CA. Sponsored by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO,) the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP,) and American College of Physicians (ACP) information is presented on treatment, research and support for patients with a cancer diagnosis and beyond.

Dana-Farber Institute Adult and Pediatric Survivorship* programs provide clinical care and services for cancer survivors, including research focused on finding solutions to key issues survivors may face after cancer treatment.

Reid R. Sacco Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Cancer Program at Tufts* Medical Center is for patients in this AYA age group who have been diagnosed with cancer or blood disorders. The clinic is also available to patients that are survivors of pediatric cancers and now, as adolescents and young adults, need to transition their follow-up to a facility specifically designed for them. Tufts AYA Cancer Program offers age-appropriate, comprehensive care using a team-based approach for a personalized Survivorship Care Plan.

*You do not need to have been treated at Dana-Farber or Tufts in order to be seen in their Adult, Pediatric, and AYA Survivorship Programs.

HOLD ONTO HOPE

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Friends of Mel Foundation holds an annual conference, The Art of Living; Life Beyond Cancer in Quincy MA, offering support and education for survivors and caregivers.

Contributing factors for increased survivorship:

Better screening and early detection
Better treatment
Genetic testing
Decreased rate of smoking

Is Cancer Preventable? According to the American Cancer Society, “all cancers caused by tobacco use and heavy alcohol consumption could be prevented completely.” Cancers related to infectious disease (eg. human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis (HepB and HepC,) human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and Heli-cobacter pylori (H. pylori) can be prevented through behavioral changes, vaccination, and treating the infection. Skin cancer can be prevented avoiding excessive sun exposure and indoor tanning. One study noted that “the number of Americans who have had skin cancer at some point in the last three decades is estimated to be higher than the number for all other cancers combined.”

The risk of cancer increases with age, “with 86% of all cancers in the United States diagnosed in people 50 years of age or older.”

Ways to Help Prevent Cancer:

Routine screening
Early detection and treatment
Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Maintain a healthy weight
Regular exercise
Healthy nutrition
Avoid exposure to sun/indoor tanning
Prevent sunburns, especially in children
Avoid smoking
Avoid excessive alcohol
Heightened awareness.

Check with your physician for information about your risk factors for cancer, preventions and screening guidelines. More information on cancer screening guidelines can be found here.

Know Your Body! Heightened awareness and early reporting of changes in certain parts of your body (Eg. breast, skin, mouth, eyes, genitalia) or changes in appetite, weight and digestion may also aid in early detection of cancer. Relaxation techniques such as meditation, mindfulness, reiki and yoga help increase self-awareness. Contact me for information on relaxation techniques that can help improve your health.

Some things are outside of your control, such as family history, environmental toxins and chemicals, and genetic makeup. But you can CHOOSE to CHANGE those thing that YOU CAN CONTROL for a Healthier You!

Wishing you the Best in Health, Karen

Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N., C.C.R.N. Alumnus. Certified Hypnotherapist, Tobacco Treatment Specialist, Usui Reiki Teacher/Komyo Shihan. Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness™ Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit www.DreamtimeWellness.com. Find us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussion about health and related subjects. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately licensed physician or other health care worker. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. The views expressed on this blog and website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, practice or other institution with which the authors are affiliated.

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