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Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Biologic or Targeted Therapy Method of Treatment for Cancer

Cancer Treatment - Biologic therapy is a term for drugs that target characteristics of cancerous tumors. Some types of targeted therapies work by blocking the biological processes of tumors that allow tumors to thrive and grow. Other types of therapies cut off the blood supply to the tumor, causing it to basically starve and die because of a lack of blood.

Targeted therapy is used in select types of cancer and is not available for everyone. It is given in conjunction with other cancer treatments.

Binge Eating

Eating Disorder - Binge eating is an eating disorder characterized by the total lack of control with food intake. This means that the subject consumes excessive amounts of food in one sitting, often until he experiences physical discomfort.
Binge eaters are often overweight or obese and have a hard time losing weight although there are people who suffer from this condition who are able to maintain their normal weights. Binge eating is considered a psychiatric disorder but it is still unknown what causes it. Binge eaters are aware of the amount of food they eat, are often embarrassed about their eating habits and yet are unable to control their binge-eating episodes. They usually become depressed, feel guilty or disgusted after a binge-eating episode. Some binge eaters also suffer from Bulimia Nervosa.
Binge eating is as much a health risk as Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa. Since binge eaters have no control over the amount and kinds of food they consume, often consuming too much of the unhealthy things, they are largely malnourished. Binge eaters have a high-risk of acquiring diabetes, heart diseases, and even certain cancers.
It is recommended that binge eaters consult with qualified medical professionals that can help them undergo cognitive-behavioral therapy, monitor personal binge eating triggers and modify eating habits.

Monday, January 18, 2010

Radiation Therapy Method of Treatment for Cancer

Cancer Treatment - Radiation therapy uses certain types of energy to shrink tumors or eliminate cancer cells. It works by damaging a cancer cell's DNA, making it unable to multiply. Cancer cells are highly sensitive to radiation and typically die when treated. Nearby healthy cells can be damaged as well, but are resilient and are able to fully recover.
Radiation therapy may be given alone, along with chemotherapy, and/or with surgery. The decision to combine radiation therapy with other types of treatment depends on the stage of cancer and other factors.

Sunday, January 17, 2010

Chemotherapy Method of Treatment for Cancer

Cancer Treatment - Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses of drugs to eliminate cancer cells. Unlike surgery, chemotherapy affects the entire body, not just a specific part. It works by targeting rapidly multiplying cancer cells. Unfortunately, other types of cells in our bodies also multiply at high rates, like hair follicle cells and the cells that line our stomachs. This is why chemo can cause side effects like hair loss and an upset stomach.
Chemotherapy is most commonly given by pill or intravenously (IV), but can be given in other ways. A single type of chemotherapy, or a combination of drugs, may be prescribed for a specific length of time. Like surgery, chemotherapy can be prescribed alone, in conjunction with radiation therapy or biologic therapy.