Cancer Blog: Lots To Live For!

Treatment Diaries - Community of Support for Chronic Illnesses

2011-12-19T06:25:00.000-08:00

Treatment Diaries is a social networking platform for those living with or caring for someone with chronic diseases to share their stories and connect. This support network can be especially important during the holiday season.

Sometimes it can be lonely to live with a chronic illness or be a caregiver for someone with a chronic illness. Treatment Diaries is a comforting place to journal experiences and express feeling privately or with others. Community members can ask questions about treatment options and receive support, all anonomyously.

Living your life with a chronic condition or caring for someone with an on-going illness is perhaps one of life’s greatest challenges, demanding significant perseverance and genuine support. Whether you are a patient, caregiver, family member or advocate - doctors offer medical assistance, loved ones provide empathy for a short period - but who really understands the daily struggle and the questions you live with; “Why me?” or “What can I do to help make it stop?” or “Why won’t the pain just go away?” The answer: ONLY you and those who share your condition and experience! The good news, at Treatment Diaries, no matter what the condition or situation - YOU are no longer alone.

Why Treatment Diaries?

Connections are powerful and made through shared conditions and the inspiration found in those who understand

Real information shared based on personal experience

Who you are and the sharing you do is kept anonymous

Search on a key word to make connections through shared treatments, experiences and emotions.

Read the diaries of others and be inspired.

Scribble in a diary of a fellow user to show encouragement and provide hope.

Extending support through experience is empowering - building a new sense of meaning in your life and a renewed sense of self. To help someone you can relate to is therapeutic and a large component of establishing overall personal well-being.
Founder Amy Ohm says “We want people to make authentic, quality, lifelong, and if they wish anonymous connections, and inspire others to live life to the fullest, no matter what their condition.” If you are searching for on line support checking out http://www.treatmentdiaries.com/ might be both comforting and uplifting.

If you are searching for a gift that will be usefual and appreciated by a cancer patient or someone with another chronic disease which has unpleasant side effects please visit http://www.lotstolivefor.com/

Minerva Health Technologies Inc. Partners with Lots To Live For, Inc.

2011-12-12T11:36:00.000-08:00

Minerva Health Technologies Inc. Partners with Lots To Live For, Inc. to Distribute Minerva® Health Manager Personal Health Record Software

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. – Minerva Health Technologies Inc. has partnered with Lots To Live For, Inc. to distribute Minerva® Health Manager, a Personal Health Record Manager system that organizes important health information for patients and families in one software solution.

Whether individuals and their family members are relatively healthy and going for a routine doctor’s visit, or managing a chronic condition and receiving extensive treatment, many want to be actively involved in their healthcare experience. Minerva Health Manager helps them securely manage their individual health history, without the use of the Internet; from detailed information on medical alerts, emergency contacts, health conditions, medications, allergies, immunizations, and insurance, to storing test results, treatments, and contents of their official advance directives.

And best of all, Minerva personal health records can be portable, so Healthcare Providers and Agents can have immediate access to their patient’s most current medical records – wherever, whenever, without the use of the Internet.

“Unfortunately, you can’t always rely on our healthcare system to have access to critical health information for accurate diagnoses or treatments. Anyone who has been in an emergency room likely has nightmares of all of the paperwork and chaos,” said Dan Schiavello, President, of Minerva Health Technologies. “With Minerva, you can have all of your health information stored on a lightweight wristband or tiny flash drive---smaller than a house key --- available in emergencies and for routine doctor visits.”

With a complete health history carried on their Minerva Wristband or Slimline Flash Drive, stored on a mobile device such as an iPad, iPhone or Android, or even as a printed report, they will be in a better position to receive the very best healthcare for themselves and their family members.

The Minerva personal health record software solution is comprehensive and easy to use, and it is surprisingly affordable for such a powerful software tool. Watch the 3‑minute Video Tour to learn how Minerva can help save lives. You can also download the free Trial and the Minerva PHR Viewer, a free app for your mobile device.

Lots To Live For, Inc. offers products to combat unpleasant and uncomfortable side effects of chemotherapy and radiation treatment. Importantly, Lots To Live For, Inc. sells items to help heal and soothe radiation burns. In addition they provide helpful cancer skin care products for sensitive and compromised skin, and hair care products to reduce and prevent hair loss. Lots To Live For, Inc offers thoughtful and appreciated cancer gifts and compassionate service. Now through the partnership with Minerva, Lots To Live For, Inc. also offers patients a way to organize, coordinate, store, and carry their important medical records.

About Minerva Health Technologies
Founded in 2000, Minerva Health Technologies Inc. is a software development company specializing in computer aided health software development and consulting. Minerva Health Technologies develops Consumer and Healthcare Provider software to manage personal health records and to optimize the interaction between patients and their healthcare providers.

Follow Minerva on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MinervaHealthManager.

For more information, please visit MyMinerva.com

About Lots To Live For
Lots To Live For, Inc. is a family business created to help individuals who are battling cancer. We offer help and solutions for side effects caused by radiation and chemotherapy treatments. We have carefully selected products that were extremely useful to various patients we've worked with, which include the courageous members of our own family. All of the products are available to order on our website.

Follow Lots To Live For on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LotsToLiveFor.

For more information, please visit LotsToLiveFor.com

CaringBridge.org allows creation of free, personal and private websites that connect people experiencing a health challenge with family and friends

2011-12-06T20:43:00.000-08:00

CaringBridge provides free websites that connect people experiencing a significant health challenge to family and friends, making each health journey easier. CaringBridge is free to users because it is powered and supported by generous donors.

Patients and caregivers who receive a difficult diagnosis should consider creating a CaringBridge website to document their personal health journey. CaringBridge can help those with serious health challenges to communicate with friends and family about their journey. And, friends and loved ones can leave messages and thoughts of inspiration for the patient. Because patients may have time constraints due to facility visiting hours or medication protocols, the CaringBridge guest book allows communication at convenience. Visitors to the guest book don't have to worry that their attempts to reach out might be intrusive or ill timed. And, the patient can communicate with supporters through journal postings. Those with serious health challenges are encouraged to explore this wonderful resource.

The following information is from the About Us section of the CaringBridge.org website:
CaringBridge websites offer a personal and private space to communicate and show support, saving time and emotional energy when health matters most. The websites are easy to create and use. Authors add health updates and photos to share their story while visitors leave messages of love, hope and compassion in the guestbook.

Connected by CaringBridge

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Each day, half-a-million people connect through CaringBridge.
More than 1 billion visits have been made to personal CaringBridge websites.
The CaringBridge community includes authors, visitors and/or donors in all 50 states and more than 225 countries/territories around the world.

Please visit our website for caring gifts at http://www.lotstolivefor.com/

Minerva Health Manager Video Tour - Describing Personal Health Record Software

2011-11-16T07:54:00.000-08:00

Please view this short video which describes the Minerva Health Manager personal health record software. Personal health records are important to maintain as healthcare in the US becomes more complicated. Personal health records can help you if you visit multiple doctors, for different diagnoses or for second opinions. Storing personal information electronically is the wave of the future. Minerva is highly rated by services which rate personal health record software.

There are many reasons to buy this product. Most important:
Minerva Health Manager can save your life!
As a reminder, some of Minerva’s main features are:
Keeps track of medical alerts
Track medications and check for side effects and drug interactions
Can store digital x-rays, videos, MRI’s and photos
Keeps doctor contact information organized and accessible
Keeps an updated list of Emergency Contacts
Keeps a record of diagnoses
Keeps a record of surgeries
Family history is coordinated
Keeps records of doctor visits
Can help prevent medical mistakes and duplicate testing
Easy access to important health information
Carry your family health records with you on your slimline or wristband flashdrive, or on your iphone, ipad or android
Create and access advanced directives including living wills

Minerva is essential for everyone, not just people with complicated, lengthy or significant health histories. It is also essential for families with young or college age children. It is especially helpful for children who participate in varsity athletics, children who are away at camp or college, and family members who may be traveling or studying abroad. It is essential for people who travel frequently for business and may encounter a health situation while traveling in a different city, state or country. It is essential for athletes who train vigorously and who might be at risk of traffic or other accidents during training.

To read more about the Minerva health manager click here.
To purchase the Minerva health manager click here.

Patients Want Coordinated Care - Personal Health Records and Portability

2011-10-24T16:39:00.001-07:00

Since our last post was about the importance of coordinating, organizing and maintaining personal health records and how Minerva Health Manager can help to accomplish this, we have decided to reprint a Q&A which was originally published in the magazine Cure Today on 9/14/2011. Dr. Lichtenfeld gives excellent advice about becoming your own health advocate.

Here is a complete reprint of the article which you can also access by clicking here.

Q & A: Patients Want Coordinated Care
BY LEN LICHTENFELD, MD PUBLISHED SEPTEMBER 14, 2011
Q: After switching doctors, I was surprised that I had to retrieve paper copies of my records. Weren’t patient records supposed to go digital?

A: Cancer patients and their caregivers see firsthand the problems we have in our healthcare system, not the least of which is how we transfer information from place to place. Patients, in transition from active cancer care to more routine follow-up in community settings, are particularly vulnerable when diagnostic and treatment data doesn’t flow easily from oncologists to primary care professionals.
Patients are beginning to recognize that they are caught in the middle of the muddle. A recent survey commissioned by the Center to Advance Palliative Care and supported by the American Cancer Society asked consumers what their biggest concerns were for patients with serious illnesses. A top issue was that doctors might not talk to and share information with each other—and these results aren’t surprising. Patients are letting it be known that from their perspective their care has become disjointed and uncoordinated as they move from place to place and doctor to doctor. The challenges are increasing as the ways in which we deliver care are morphing into new and more challenging systems.
Much of this was supposed to be addressed by expanding the influence of electronic medical records. Although there has been progress, it has been slow in coming. We still need widely accepted standards that allow different computer systems to use the same data—that way, test results could be easily available wherever the patient receives care, and scans wouldn’t have to be repeated. And, although the process of health information exchange is gaining traction, it may be some time before networks that will move patient information from one place to another, just like an ATM network, are up and running.
Until we arrive at that magical day when our treatment information follows us to where we get our health care, you must be your own advocate. Know your disease, know your treatment, and know what your healthcare team wants you to do and when you should do it. Keep copies of important records and even CDs of scans. If you don’t understand something, speak up and ask questions. No one is going to look out for you more than you do for yourself.
—Len Lichtenfeld, MD, is deputy chief medical officer for the American Cancer Society.
(end of article from Cure Today)

To learn more about how the Minerva Health Manager can help you organize personal health records click here.
To read about and order the Minerva Health Manager personal health software click here.

Minerva Health Manager Software Organizes Personal Health Records

2011-10-18T06:20:00.000-07:00

Many people associate electronic health records with healthcare providers. In fact, personal health records should be organized and consolidated as well. Many people don't realize that having thir personal health records available in an emergency can be lifesaving.

Minerva Health Manager is a personal health manager that organizes important health information for you and your family in one software solution.

Minerva Health Manager is portable, so you and your doctors can have access to your most current medical records – wherever you are, whenever you want.
Your personal health information will never be inaccessible or out of reach again.

With Minerva, your health records are organized, in your hands, and in your control.
Coordinate and organize your health records so you can be prepared in an emergency!
Minerva Health Manager can save your life!
Here are some of Minerva’s main features:
Keeps track of medical alerts
Keeps track of allergies
Track medications and check for side effects and drug interactions
Keeps track of immunization history
Can store digital x-rays, videos, MRI’s and photos
Keeps doctor contact information organized and accessible
Keeps an updated list of Emergency Contacts
Keeps a record of diagnoses
Keeps a record of surgeries
Family history is coordinated
Keeps records of doctor visits
Can help prevent medical mistakes and duplicate testing
Easy access to important health information
Carry your family health records with you on your slimline or wristband Flash Drive, or on your iPhone, iPad or Android
Create and access advanced directives including living wills

MORE POWER TO THE PATIENT

Whether you are relatively healthy or managing a chronic condition, you want to be actively involved in your healthcare experience. With Minerva, you can be. Minerva helps you privately manage your individual health history on your own computer; from detailed information on your health conditions, medications, allergies, immunizations, and insurance to storing your test results, diagnoses, treatments, and contents of your official advance directive.

This means that in any medical situation, from a routine doctor’s visit to a medical emergency, you are equipped with important aspects of your personal health, along with valuable emergency contact information. With your complete health history in hand – whether printed as a report from your own computer to your own printer, or carried on your Minerva slimline or wristband Flash Drive, iPhone, iPad or Android – you are in a better position to receive the very best healthcare for you and your family. Minerva Health Manager includes family health history reports that record hereditary health conditions in your family tree – so you can work with healthcare professionals to take the right steps to help maintain your good health, as early as possible. Minerva can empower you to make good choices for your health.

FEWER MEDICAL OVERSIGHTS

Lack of information can lead to devastating medical oversights. Access to that information, whether your healthcare happens down the street or around the world, can help keep you and your family safe. A doctor responds to a medical emergency with the information available. With Minerva, that information can be far more complete. And, when it comes to the care of family members, easy access to the details of each and every one of their medications, immunizations, allergies, conditions, and historic health events can enrich the quality of care they receive. Accurate information such as allergies to medications can be lifesaving in emergency situations.

YOUR HEALTH HISTORY – TO GO – WITH YOU WHEN YOU NEED IT

You probably won’t be seeing your doctor while sitting at your computer. That’s why Minerva Health Manager is completely portable: all of your health history on you Minerva slimline or wristband Flash Drive, iPhone, iPad, or Android. Where you go, it goes! Plus, with the click of you mouse, you can print as much of your health history as you want in a report, along with an emergency identification card that you can always carry in your wallet. If you have a chronic condition: just take your flash drive with you to your new specialist and you won’t have to detail a lifetime of information, or potentially forget details that could mean the difference between the right medical decision and the wrong one. You just have to hand your flash drive to your doctor, and he or she can see the information on their computer. And even more importantly and potentially lifesaving – if you are rushed to the emergency room, unable to communicate, your flash drive can do the talking for you – your medications, drug allergies, health conditions, medical alerts, and emergency contacts.

PERSONAL OR FAMILY SOFTWARE AVAILABLE

All of the features and benefits of Minerva that are available to you are also available to your parents and children. That’s because, unlike some other Personal Health Records, Minerva Health Manager is a solution for your entire family. With a unique login, your parents and children can access and manager their own Personal Health Record in the same software. Your parents and children can carry their Personal Health Records with them wherever they go. So, not only will you be protected at home and around the globe, so will the people you treasure most.

Minerva is the Roman goddess of wisdom, medicine and science and can protect you too.

If you would like to purchase a copy of Minerva Health Manager CLICKHERE. Go to the upper right where it says SHOP NOW (in red) and select whether you want the individual or family version.
To watch a short youtube video about Minerva Health Manager CLICK HERE
To watch a short youtube video that will convince you that portable personal health records can be lifesaving CLICK HERE

Help for Using the Internet to Research a Significant Health Diagnosis

2011-10-04T10:54:00.000-07:00

In this book Andrew Schorr gives helpful advice on how to best navigate the internet if you are researching a significant health diagnosis.

According to the book review on the Amazon website: Gone are the days when patients take life-changing diagnoses lying down. The first place people go to learn more about their health, especially when it is at risk, is the Internet. But this unregulated channel can be as harmful as it is beneficial when it comes to medical content. As a step-by-step guide, The Web-Savvy Patient: An Insider’s Guide to Navigating the Internet When Facing Medical Crisis explores topics such as wading through search engine results, connecting with online communities, defining conditions, identifying the specialists, and organizing the outcome of your research so that doctors will listen. Delivering practical instruction and supplying real-life reassurances, author and recognized patient empowerment pioneer Andrew Schorr encourages individuals and family members to retain control rather than fall victim to fear and worry. Schorr offers up true stories of empowered patients alongside the details of his own experience as a cancer patient, revealing how the Internet led him toward the physician, hospital, and treatment that he believes saved his life. Enlightening and logically organized, the book is easy to read and easy to relate to. Respected medical experts, support groups, and patients agree that when it comes to improving the quality of online health content, Schorr, a longtime patient educator, medical journalist, and leukemia survivor, is the ultimate expert.

The Continuing Shortage of Generic Cancer Drugs

2011-08-09T19:46:00.000-07:00

Shortchanging Cancer Patients
By EZEKIEL J. EMANUEL
Published: August 6, 2011
Getting to the roots of the real rationing crisis — a severe shortage of important cancer drugs.
Many generic cancer drugs are in short supply. Click here to view this article, published in the NY Times which offers a fascinating look at why the shortages have occurred and why they persist.

A Cookbook with Recipes to Lower the Risk of Breast Cancer by Nutrition Researcher Mary Flynn of Brown University

2011-07-26T19:37:00.000-07:00

Under the auspices of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation, Flynn, a research dietitian at the Miriam Hospital and assistant professor at Brown Medical School, studied the effects of a plant-based olive-oil diet ("PBOO") for overweight women who had undergone breast cancer treatment, compared to a low-fat diet recommended by the National Cancer Institute. Her conclusion--that the plant-based olive oil diet is both more effective and more satisfying--is the basis for this combination research/recipe book, penned with the help of Barr, a cookbook author formerly associated with Julia Child. The authors explain that the PBOO diet concentrates primarily on foods that women should eat in order to lower their risk of breast cancer or to ward off its recurrence, while omitting foods associated with risks; the focus on olive oil and veggies leads to improvement in blood lipids, blood sugar, and insulin, all biomarkers for breast cancer. Part II presents a 1,500-calorie diet that includes 150 simple, affordable, and enticing recipes, ranging from breakfasts, salads, and sandwiches to main courses and desserts. This user-friendly and preventive diet plan will benefit every woman concerned about breast cancer and health.

The Pink Ribbon Diet: A Revolutionary New Weight Loss Plan to Lower Your Breast Cancer Risk

The Pink Ribbon Diet: A Revolutionaly New Weight Loss Plan to Lower Your Breast Cancer Risk

© Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

CR Magazine - Another Great Resource for Cancer Patients, Survivors and Caregivers

2011-03-30T13:31:00.000-07:00

CR was launched by the American Association for Cancer Research in March 2006 to serve an unmet need: a forum for sharing credible, balanced information about cancer and perspectives on the pressing challenges in cancer research today. We believe that collaborations among members of the cancer community—survivors and those who care for and about them—will lead to results in cancer prevention, treatment and care.
CR Magazine has a print version and an on line version. The CR website offers some interesting podcasts which have been created to address specific issues of interest to cancer patients. Some examples of the podcasts which are accessible on the website are:
The Human Side of Cancer
With Dr. Jimmie Holland
By Kevin Begos
A new series of podcasts about coping with the psychological and emotional side of cancer.
Cancer News Podcast -Speeding Up Translational Research
By Kevin Begos
A proposed NIH center aims to move science from bench to beside faster.
Cancer Drug Shortages
By Kevin Begos
Doctors and pharmaceutical companies must find solutions to shortages of some tried-and-true medications.
Novel Strategies for Breast Cancer Therapy
By Kevin Begos
Improved understanding of breast cancer subtypes can lead to better treatments for the disease.
Pathobiology of Breast Cancer
By Kevin Begos
Scientists now have a greater understanding of how breast cancer works.
The above are just a few examples of the podcasts available on the website. To access the podcasts and to view additional titles click here.
You can subscribe to the print edition of CR Magazine by clicking here.

Lots To Live For, Inc. Facebook Fan Page

2011-03-21T04:34:00.000-07:00

Lots To Live For, Inc. has launched a Facebook Fan page. Please "like" the page so that you can get updates about our products. You can also read what our customers have to say about our products.

Lots To Live For, Inc. offers one stop web shopping for patients combating unpleasant side effects from chemotherapy and radiation treatment. There are also helpful resources for cancer patients and caregivers.

Lots To Live For, Inc. offers:
Products to help heal and soothe radiation burns

Cancer skin care products for sensitive and compromised skin
Cancer hair care products to reduce hair loss and stimulate hair regrowth
Oral care items for dry mouth and mouth sores
Nutritional products to help boost the immune system.
Cancer gifts for individuals undergoing radiation and chemotherapy
Natural, Botanical and Homeopathic products to relieve cancer side effects
Products for the Relief of Nausea associated with chemotherapy
An all natural Skin Care line of products made without perfumes or chemicals
Post radiation sun protection products

No other company offers such a complete collection of cancer care products to help all types of cancer side effects. We are also a cancer care resource offering cancer information and links to useful articles, organizations and research. Please take your time exploring and call or email us with your questions.

To view the Lots To Live For, Inc. facebook page please click here.
To view the Lots To Live For, Inc. website where you can view and order products on line click here.

Cure Today Magazine - A Great Resource - Free Subscription for Patients, Survivors and Caregivers

2011-03-19T13:44:00.000-07:00

CURE Media Group has become the source of information and inspiration for those on the cancer journey. CURE Media Group's flagship product, CURE magazine, is the indispensable guide for every stage of the cancer experience. Through the magazine, educational forums, a resource guide for the newly diagnosed, a national nursing award, books, and a variety of online tools, CURE Media Group combines science and humanity to make cancer understandable.

The Spring 2011 issue of CURE is now available on line or in print with the latest on chemobrain, advancements in ovarian cancer and the changing landscape of cancer drug approvals. In the cover story, "Lifting the Fog," the author explores what may cause chemobrain, also called cognitive dysfunction, and coping strategies some survivors are using to deal with the side effect. You'll also find information on oral mucositis, a survivor's reflection on losing her hair and newly approved treatments for breakthrough pain, anal cancer and follicular lymphoma.

Some other articles you will find in this issue are:
Breaking Out of the Silence
Advances in ovarian cancer gain ground.
Hitting Hard-to-Treat Cancers
Hampered by lack of screening tools, science is taking aim at the most lethal forms of the disease.
Bending the Rules
Yoga has earned accolades as a complementary therapy, and now studies are confirming its value.
Hurdles on the Faster Track
Patients & the FDA struggle over how to define success in the battle against metastatic disease.

You can click here to sign up to receive a free subscription of Cure Today.
Cure Today is a wonderful and free resource for patients, caregivers and survivors.
The above information is taken from the Cure Today website.
To view the Cure Today Spring 2011 magazine on line click here.

You can view a collection of product lines which will effectively combat all types of cancer treatment side effects at our companion website Lots To Live For, Inc.
The products offered on www.LotsToLiveFor.com can help prevent and heal radiation burns, help improve and soothe dry, flaking and compromised skin, and help dry mouth and mouth sores. You can also find homeopathic remedies for skin care side effects. There are also hair care products to help prevent loss, and stimulate regrowth for thinning hair. Nutritional products, so helpful for compromised immune systems are also available.

Complete Guide to Nutrition for Cancer Survivors - Helpful Book

2011-02-17T15:02:00.000-08:00

A useful guide to nutrition for cancer patients and survivors:

American Cancer Society Complete Guide to Nutrition for Cancer Survivors: Eating Well, Staying Well During and After Cancer
Abby S. Bloch PhD RD (Editor), Barbara Grant MS RD CSO LD (Editor), Kathryn K. Hamilton MA RD CDN CSO (Editor), Cynthia A. Thomson PhD RD (Editor)

Dieticians can be extremely helpful for people who have cancer. Many cancer patients do not have access to nutritional counseling. This helpful book can serve as a useful resource.

Written for consumers, patients, and families seeking reliable information about nutritional support for people with cancer, this comprehensive guide offers the latest information about using nutrition to optimal advantage during the cancer journey. Also discussed is the role of sound nutritional choices before, during, and after cancer therapy and how they can help bolster energy levels, strengthen the immune system, fight off infection, and minimize the side effects of treatment. Charts, information on special diets, and level-headed advice about dietary supplements make this a valuable tool for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

About the Authors
Barbara Grant, MS, RD, CSO, LD, is the outpatient clinical nutritionist at the Saint Alphonsus Cancer Care Center and is a board-certified specialist in oncology nutrition. Abby S. Bloch, PhD, RD, is executive director of programs and research for the Robert C. and Veronica Atkins Foundation, was on staff at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer, and was chairperson for the American Cancer Society Advisory Committee on Nutrition and Physical Activity. Kathryn K. Hamilton, MA, RD, CDN, CSO, is an outpatient clinical oncology dietitian with the Carol G. Simon Cancer Center at the Morristown Memorial Hospital in Morristown, New Jersey; an assistant professor at College of St. Elizabeth in Morristown; and a board-certified specialist in oncology nutrition. Cynthia A. Thomson, PhD, RD, is an associate professor at the University of Arizona department of nutritional sciences, a board-certified specialist in oncology nutrition, and was a nominee for the Sidney Salmon Memorial Award for Cancer Research in 2009.

Breast Cancer Lymph Node Treatment Protocol Updated: For Up to 20% of Patients Removal of Cancerous Nodes Yields No Survival Advantage

2011-02-14T04:39:00.000-08:00

A somewhat surprising and counterintuitive recommendation is the result of a multiyear breast cancer study: approximately 20% of women with breast cancer should not have cancerous lymph nodes from under their arms removed. This new approach to treatment was adopted by Memorial Sloan-Kettering, a renowned cancer treatment hospital in New York City in September 2010. Dr. Monica Morrow, chief of the breast service at Sloan-Kettering is one of the author's of the study supporting this new protocol which was published in the Journal of the American Medical Association on 2/9/11. The study found that the survival rate for patients whose lymph nodes were removed is very similar to the survival of patients whose lymph nodes were not removed.

The study concludes that taking out the lymph nodes does not change the treatment plan, improve survival, or make the cancer less likely to recur. Often, the removal of lymph nodes causes dangerous, painful and potentially disabling complications such as infection and/or lymphedema.

Chemotherapy and radiation treatment are now standard therapy for women whose breast cancer has traveled to the lymph nodes. It is believe that this treatment is effective for wiping out any disease in these lymph nodes.

Importantly, the new results do not apply to all patients, only to those whose women who meet the specific criteria as laid out in the study with regard to lymph node descriptive details.

For products that can help you reduce and relieve side effects caused by chemotherapy and radiation for breast cancer, please visit http://www.lotstolivefor.com/

For more information you can refer to:
The article by Denise Grady in the NY Times entitled “Lymph Node Study Shakes Breast Cancer Treatment” dated 2/9/11
The article in the Journal of the American Medical Association entitled "Auillary Dissection vs No Axillary Dissection in Women With Invasive Breast Cancer and Sentinel Node Metastasis" with multiple authors including Armando E. Giuliano, MD
A followup article to the 2/9 article in the NY Times, also by Denise Grady "Implications of Study on Breast Cancer"

Shortages for Some Generic Drugs used for Cancer Chemotherapy Treatment

2011-02-05T09:41:00.000-08:00

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is seeing "a record number of shortages" this year, said Valerie Jensen of the FDA's drug shortage program. This is putting pressure on hospitals and doctors which in certain cases have been forced to search for acceptable alternative treatments. Most shortages are for injectable medications (also called sterile injectibles), including several for cancer, Ms. Jensen said.

Doxorubicin, a generic drug also known as adriamycin, is a common treatment for some breast cancers and lymphomas, is in short supply causing some patients to receive alterhative regimens.

The drug cisplatin is also in short supply. Cisplatin is a mainstay treatment for testicular cancer, and is also used for other cancers.

Shortages also exist for Leucovorin which is frequently used in combination with fluoruracil to treat cancers such as colon and rectal, head and neck, esophageal, and other cancers of the gastrointestinal tract. It can also be used as an antidote to effects of certain chemotherapy drugs such as methotrexate.

Bleomycin is a chemotherapy drug that is administered for the treatment of several types of cancer, including squamous cell carcinomas, testicular cancer, head and neck cancers, and lymphomas. It works as an antineoplastic drug, meaning that it is a tumor antibiotic and is toxic to fast growing cells. Some hospitals are experiencing difficulting in procuring Bleomycin.

In a recent MSNBC online story, Jensen said 40 percent of the shortages are due to manufacturing problems, 20 percent because a firm stops making a drug and 20 percent from production delays. The basic cause, she said, is the drugs are not as profitable as newer ones. According to a report on Fierce Pharma drugs run short for a variety of reasons: Increased demand for a particular treatment, short supplies of active ingredients, manufacturing problems, recalls...and because some older drugs are only made by a handful of manufacturers, when one company's production slows or stops, that affects the entire supply. For instance, the cancer drug cisplatin is made by three companies--APP, Teva Pharmaceuticals and Bedford--and both Teva and Bedford report manufacturing delays, while APP, understandably, is struggling to keep up with increased demand.

It is important to be vigilant and to inquire about the availilbity of enough medication to complete your prescribed regimen if a generic injectible cancer medication is prescribed.

For further information you can refer to these articles:
NCI Cancer Bulletin
http://www.cancer.gov/ncicancerbulletin/011111/page2
ONS Connect
http://www.onsconnect.org/2011/01/whats-up-with-all-these-cancer-drug-shortages
Seattle Times
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/health/2014118438_webdrugs04.html
Wall Street Journal
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/health/2014118438_webdrugs04.html

To learn about and purchase products that can help to reduce the side effects of cancer drug treatment you can view this website: www.LotsToLiveFor.com

Homeopathic Treatment for Radiation Burns and Other Skin Conditions

2011-01-16T07:10:00.000-08:00

7 Cream is a homeopathic treatment for radiation burns and radiation dermatitis, as well as an excellent cream for other skin conditions. The 7 ingredients are described below with their healing properties. You can order 7 Cream by clicking here.

7 CREAM'S ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
Shea Butter (Butyrospermum parkii) comes from the fat obtained from the karite tree from Africa. It is extremely therapeutic; helping to heal cracked and damaged skin. Shea butter penetrates the skin and leaves it feeling soft and smooth. It contains unsaponifiables and cinnamic esters, which have antimicrobial and moisturizing properties and provide protection from the UV rays of the sun.
Avocado oil (Persea americana) contains more than 20% essential unsaturated fatty acids. It also contains vitamins A, C, D and E, proteins, beta-carotene, lecithin, fatty acids and potassium. It has a superior moisturizing effect on the upper layer of the skin and reduces scars. A study at the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology found that avocado oil significantly increases the water soluble collagen content in the dermis. The AMA states that it reduces roughness, cracking and irritation.
Coconut oil (Cocos nucifera) is one of the safest most effective natural body moisturizers available. It is rich in lauric fatty acid. According to research as it appears to have significant antimicrobial, antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Manuka oil A unique oil extracted from the Manuka plant. We use a particularly concentrated form of it. For example it is effective against the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes and Propionibacterium acnes in concentrations as low as 1:3500.
Neem oil (Azadriachta indica) is used widely in India as an antibacterial, antiviral. antifungal, antiseptic and antiparasitic. It is used to treat skin disorders such as eczema, psoriasis, ringworm, scabies, syphilitic sores, chicken pox etc.
Manuka Honey is honey from the flower of the Manuka tree indigenous to New Zealand. Its healing properties have been known to the Maoris for a very long time. Manuka honey promotes a hydrated healing environment and rapidly clears bacteria from colonized and infected wounds. It has even been observed to be effective against antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria (MRSA). It has an anti-inflammatory action and prevents scarring. Manuka honey has been used to treat a range of skin problems including chronic sores, ring worm, eczema, fungal infections and dandruff. We use the most powerful and expensive form of Manuka Honey available.
Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis Miller) is a well known plant with many documented therapeutic effects. It has more than 200 biologically active components including polysaccharides, phytosterols and glycerol. Aloe Vera has been found to have anti-inflammatory, burn healing and wound and scar reducing properties. We use a pure, certified Organic, aloe Vera gel.
Calendula (Calendula officinalis) has been used by herbalists and homeopaths for hundreds of years. Its chief use is as a local application to help heal and prevent infection of wounds through its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. 7 Cream contains a powerful Organic, alcohol free Calendula extract made especially for us by Gaia Herbs and contains as much as most purely calendula creams.
7 Cream was developed by a homeopathic practitioner in Canada. The water used in 7 Cream is Canadian glacier water - the world’s purest and softest water
NO parabens, mineral oil, fragrances, lanolin, propylene glycol. The unavoidable preservative and stablisers are chosen for their gentleness and non-toxicity.

This cream, while excellent as a moisturizer, protective barrier cream, and infection preventer, was also designed to be a promoter of healing for damaged skin. It is therefore very useful for injuries and burns as well as eczema and otherdermatitis type conditions and fungal infections. It can also being used cosmetically for its moisturizing effect.

Lots To Live For, Inc. is a website that specializes in discovering excellent products to help reduce the unpleasant and uncomfortable side effects of cancer therapies. To view all of the RADIATION BURN products available through Lots To Live For, Inc. please click here.

New Developments for Blood Test to Detect Circulating Cancer Cells

2011-01-03T13:58:00.000-08:00

Scientists from the Boston area who invented the concept, and drugmaker Johnson & Johnson announced today that they are joining forces to market an ultra-sensitive blood-test for cancer, the Associated Press reported. Click here for the AP report.

Daniel Haber, who heads Massachusetts General Hospital’s cancer center and is one of the test’s inventors, described the procedure as “like a liquid biopsy” that avoids painful tissue sampling and may be a more reliable way of monitoring patients than periodic scans, the newswire said.

Many doctors believe that stray cancer cells in the blood mean that a tumor has already spread, or is likely to spread. This test that can capture such cells and determine whether cancer cells are circulating in the blood, and the volume of the cells in the blood. This level can be monitored over time to determine if chemotherapy or other treatments are effective on a particular patient. Circulating Tumor Cells are also referred to as CTC's

The test was invented by Boston scientists from Massachusetts General hospital and Harvard University. The Veridex unit of Johnson & Johnson is joining with the doctors and scientists who invented it to further the research and refine the tool.

To read a CNN report about this test click here.

For products that can help reduce cancer treatment side effects click here.

Lots To Live For, Inc. Partners with Happy Chemo! To Offer Free Items With Orders

2010-12-20T11:14:00.000-08:00

Lots To Live For, Inc. has partnered with the Happy Chemo! website which offers discounts and support for cancer patients. This resource is helpful for both patients and caregivers. Great cancer gift ideas can be found through the Happy Chemo website partners. Happy Chemo is an oxymoron on a mission - the desire to make the cancer experience a little brighter and easier to endure.

Fighting cancer is a tough journey. Happy Chemo! partners with local and national companies to provide cancer patients and caregivers with exclusive special offers to provide relief before, during and after chemotherapy and/or radiation treatment. Cancer symptons can bring emotional and mental anxiety, not just to the patient, but to the caregivers and family as well. You can find the Lots To Live For, Inc. partner page by clicking here.

Check out the Happy Chemo! website for some support, some special offers, and new resources to explore.

31 Myths and Truths About Breast Cancer from the National Breast Cancer Coalition

2010-12-17T05:11:00.000-08:00

The website http://www.knowbreastcancer.org/ has a list of 31 myths and truths about Breast Cancer with the ultimate hope of educating and empowering women to help detect, prevent and ultimately cure this disease.

The following is from the website:

"It’s time to move beyond awareness to action. It’s time to peel back the pink to see what’s really happening in breast cancer research, treatment, prevention and cure.

Our breast cancer myths and truths are backed by science, documented by credible and trusted sources and chosen because they are often misunderstood by or misrepresented to the general public.

We challenge you to become educated, speak up on behalf of women and men everywhere and take action to end this disease. We also call on you to help us spread this message to people you know: friends, family, coworkers, anyone who cares about ending breast cancer.

We will show you the way and give you the tools to get involved and make a difference.

Please join us."

To view the thought provoking and informative 31 Myths and Truths you can visit the National Breast Cancer Coalition website by clicking here. When you click in to view the 31 Myths and Truths, you can then click on each item to get further information about that specific myth or truth.

For example Myth #12 is: Everyone's breast cancer is the same.
If you click on the myth you will be taken to a more detailed page about that statement (click here to complete the example and view the detail about this myth) and you will learn about some unique characteristics of different types of breast cancer, and why they are not all the same.

There is plenty of additional information worth reading behind this seemingly simple 31 item list.

For products that can help to reduce and relieve the side effects of breast cancer treatment you can reference our website at http://www.lotstolivefor.com/

San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium 2010 Information

2010-12-12T11:36:00.000-08:00

The San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium attracts academic and private physicians and researchers, as well as other health care professionals focused on curing breast cancer, to discuss and learn about new and late-breaking research including experimental biology, etiology, prevention, diagnosis, and therapy of breast cancer and pre-malignant breast disease, as well as new findings from clinical trials. With the addition of the AACR as a symposium collaborator, this year’s program will attract more thought-leaders and high-quality proffered papers in basic and translational breast cancer research as well as increase the participation of young investigators by providing superior education and training opportunities for the next generation of breast cancer researchers.
You can view information about the symposium: http://www.sabcs.org/
Abstracts from presentations are available on the website above.
The publication Cure Today has a daily email which reviews highlights of the presentations at the symposium each day. There are also video interviews with some of the presenters. You can view these daily hightlights at: http://media.curetoday.com/sabcs2010/day1.html
Following are two briefs that appear in the Cure Today highlights:
Highlights from the 2009 Symposium: An Update
COMPILED FROM STAFF REPORTS
Physicians, researchers and advocates from all around the world came away from the 2009 SABCS with answers to a number of important questions: Is beginning on an aromatase inhibitor better than switching from tamoxifen? Is Herceptin more effective with or following chemotherapy in HER2-positive breast cancer? Does Avastin slow progression of metastatic breast cancer and by how much? And how well does Xgeva work against bone pain and fracture when compared with Zometa? Get an update on last year's breaking news.
Preventing Cancer in BRCA Mutation Carriers
BY MELISSA WEBER
Every woman with a mutated BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene should have their ovaries removed to lower their risk of ovarian cancer, said speaker Susan Domchek, MD, during an educational session Wednesday at the SABCS. Calling the preventive surgery "mandatory" in BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers, Domchek said there's no evidence that current ovarian cancer screening is effective.
Click on the abstract name above to be taken to the full article referenced.
To view products that can help with side effects caused by breast cancer treatment, please visit: http://www.LotsToLiveFor.com

BioBands - Relief from Chemotherapy Nausea (CINV)

2010-12-07T06:47:00.000-08:00

BioBands are clinically proven, effective wristbands that provide relief of nausea associated with chemotherapy, anesthesia (post-operative), travel (motion sickness) and pregnancy (morning sickness).
A BioBands wristband is a safe, simple, effective and inexpensive way of relieving nausea: whether it’s from motion sickness, morning sickness, post-surgery anesthesia, or chemotherapy treatments. Biobands are safe and easy to use. They offer quick results with no side effects. Biobands are Drug Free and Chemical Free.
The wristband utilizes acupressure, a natural pressure therapy applied to a specific acupuncture point that controls nausea and vomiting. A small bead embedded in the adjustable band presses down on the P6 (Neiguan) point, located three finger widths above the wrist crease between the tendons of the flexor surface of the forearm, approximately in the area of a watchband.
Drug-free BioBands are easy to use and have no side-effects. Simply place the adjustable band correctly on either wrist. A built in bead provides customized pressure at the P6 acupressure point on the underside of the wrist. This gentle pressure interrupts the signals that trigger nausea. Several clinical studies have confirmed significant results regarding the effectiveness from P6 acupressure for nausea relief.
This simple and inexpensive product which is so easy to use can help you resume your normal lifestyle. It is a must buy purchase for anyone suffering from nausea as a side effect of chemotherapy and/or radiation treatments.
To learn more about BioBands or to buy BioBands please click here.
You can call us for more information about how BioBands can help both chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting (CINV)as well as radiation induced nausea and vomiting (RINV)
toll free 1-866-LIVE FOR or 1-866-548-3367
Click here for other natural products to treat chemotherapy and radiation side effects.

Great Holiday Gifts for Cancer Patients - Give the Gift of Natural Skin Care

2010-11-29T13:39:00.000-08:00

Skin Free Products offer an all natural skin care solution for cancer patients. The Skin Free product line is made with all natural ingredients and is an excellent product line for people with delicate, sensitive and very dry skin, or skin that is compromised by chemicals or medication. The products are innovative, effective and affordable.

A great holiday gift is the Basic Four Gift set: This fabulous gift has it all! A must for anyone with dry, broken, or delicate skin. This gift bag includes: Super Moisture Body Balm, 8 oz.; After Shower Moisture Spritz, 8 oz.;Niaouli Butter Stick, 1 oz. and Extra Moisturizing Soap, 3.5 oz.

The Skin Free products have the following attributes:
• All natural ingredients
• No harmful chemicals or preservatives
• No artificial fragrance
• No petroleum products
• No colorants
• No animal testing
• Non-greasy
• No steroids

Skin Free products contain oils obtained from vegetable sources that are readily absorbed by the skin, providing a pleasing feeling, and offer a variety of beneficial antioxidants, vitamins, and other healing nutrients. Many other skin care products have petroleum jelly or mineral oil bases are occlusive and not absorbed by the skin. This results in an unpleasant or “greasy” feeling.

Please visit our website by clicking here to read more about the Skin Free skin care product line.

Two New DNA Tests Could Offer Noninvasive Ways of Detecting Colon Cancer

2010-11-15T07:02:00.000-08:00

Two new DNA based tests could help most people avoid colonoscopies if they are ultimately approved by the FDA after completing clinical trials and testing. Colon cancer is diagnosed in approximately 150,000 people per year in the US.

Exact Sciences of Madison, WI uses stool samples, and searches for the presence of four altered genes that are diagnostic indicators of colon cancer. This test could catch cancerous and precancerous tumors at an early stage, when they are still curable. Doctors could then remove them promptly. Exact Sciences hopes to complete a trial in 2012 and the test, if approved by the FDA could be available shortly thereafter.

Epigenomics AG of Germany has developed another test that searches in blood for changes in a single gene, Septin 9. This single gene is not in the Exact Sciences’ panel of genes.

Both tests could be less expensive than a colonoscopy, and would presumably have better compliance because many people avoid colonoscopies due to their invasive nature and unpleasant preparation.

To read more about these tests please refer to the NY Times article by Nicholas Wade dated 10/29/10 by clicking here.

Cancer Gifts – Thoughtful Gifts for Cancer Patients Undergoing Radiation Therapy Treatment

2010-11-09T06:02:00.000-08:00

Cancer gifts express your caring, concern and support. If you are having trouble selecting just the right item for your friend or loved one consider buying a product or a collection of products to ease cancer side effects.

Patients who are undergoing radiation therapy often get radiation dermatitis, or radiation burns. There are some excellent creams and lotions that can help to prevent the burns, and then to soothe them if a person has already been burned. A few suggestions include:
• RADX radiation therapy gift kit – 4 products to help from before radiation starts to post radiation skin protection care. Using these products should keep your skin supple and healthy
• Alra therapy lotion - offers soothing relief to skin exposed to radiation therapy, and is also effective in the treatment of eczema, sunburn, and other severe dry skin conditions
• CoolMagic gel sheets - these light-weight, see-through polymer sheets provide instant cooling to burns, abrasions, skin tears, radiation reactions and sensitive wounds, effectively reducing pain.
• Skin cooler rolls - especially effective on hyper-sensitive, compromised skin. They can be used on radiation dermatitis, sunburn, “hot flashes”, or itchy, dry skin.

Other unpleasant and uncomfortable side effects of radiation and chemotherapy can be related to oral care, hair care, skin care (other than radiation burns), and nausea.
We will talk about gift suggestions for these side effects in future blog posts.

To view our cancer gift page click here.
http://www.lotstolivefor.com/category/cancer_gifts

Scalp Cooling to Prevent Chemotherapy Hair Loss

2010-11-04T08:10:00.000-07:00

We have received a number of questions about scalp cooling with ice or gel caps to prevent hair loss during chemotherapy. We have researched some literature and found an article which has reviewed a number of studies relating to Scalp Cooling During Chemotherapy. We suggest that if you are interested in this that you refer to the full article we highlight and reference in this blog piece. The article is entitled “Prevention of Chemotherapy-Induced Hair Loss by Scalp Cooling” by E. G. Grevelman and W.P.M. Breed of the Netherlands, and was published by the Annals of Oncology on January 10, 2005. This article is available on line and can be accessed by clicking here. The abstract from this article is shown below:

Abstract
Background: Chemotherapy-induced temporary hair loss is one of the most common and distressing side-effects of cancer therapy. Scalp cooling to reduce this hair loss is a controversial issue for many doctors and nurses. This may be due to inadequate knowledge.
Methods: This review from 53 publications and three personal communications focuses on the efficacy of the treatment, side-effects, possible disadvantages and the controversies in these areas.
Results: Scalp cooling has become an increasingly effective method to prevent hair loss, especially when anthracyclines or taxanes are used. Unfortunately, many studies were small and badly designed and are therefore difficult to compare. There is a considerable variation in the success rates in the various studies. This remains unexplained, but the cooling time, the chemotherapy used and the temperature seem to be influential. Scalp cooling should not be used if chemotherapy is given with a curative intent in patients with generalised haematogenic metastases. The majority of patients tolerate cooling very well.
Conclusion: Based on the results of these studies, scalp cooling should be applied more. However, it is not possible to advise on the optimum application of the cooling methods (system, duration and temperature). Careful application of the cooling cap might be more important than the cooling system itself. In addition, scalp cooling is effective but not for all chemotherapy patients. Further psychological, clinical and biophysical research is needed to determine exact indications for cooling and to improve the effect, tolerance, side-effects and the cooling procedure. Multicentre trials should be carried out to gather this information.

On our website we sell several products that can help people who are dealing with chemotherapy hair loss. We sell shampoos that can help to reduce or prevent hair loss during chemotherapy, and if the hair has already fallen out, we have some products that can help to cleanse the scalp and the hair follicles. Please refer to our website for information about the Thymuskin Product line, the Anasazzi Hair Care line, and Alra Shampoo.

Expert Guidance on Treatment and Prevention for People with Cancer and their Allies

2010-11-02T06:55:00.000-07:00

We would like to introduce you to Ralph W. Moss, PhD. He has been thinking and writing about cancer — especially its less-conventional treatments — for over 35 years. During this time he has written or edited twelve books and three film documentaries on questions relating to cancer research and treatment. Moss is a graduate of New York University (BA, cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa, 1965) and Stanford University (MA, 1973, PhD, 1974, Classics).
The former science writer and assistant director of public affairs at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York (1974-1977), Moss evaluates the claims of various conventional and non-conventional cancer treatments. He currently directs The Moss Reports, an up-to-date library of detailed reports on more than 200 varieties of cancer. Since 2001 he has published a weekly online newsletter that reaches tens of thousands of readers. Although not a medical doctor, he is noted for his critical acumen on health topics and is listed in Marquis Who’s Who in America, Who’s Who in the World, Who’s Who in HealthCare, etc.
Ralph Moss has a very informative blog with guidance on treatment and prevention for people with cancer. You can access this blog by clicking here: http://themossreports.wordpress.com/
Some recent topics he has written about are:
Overcoming Side Effects of Tamoxifen
A Dietary Supplement for Breast Cancer
In addition to his cancer blog, Ralph Moss also has a website called Cancer Decisions and you can subscribe to a weekly e-newsletter through this website.

Lots To Live For, Inc. is now on Facebook

2010-10-29T07:03:00.000-07:00

Lots To Live For, Inc. is now on Facebook! Please check out our facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/LotsToLiveFor

Please be sure to visit our Facebook page and “Like” us so you will receive updates about our product offerings. We will share our new product announcements and post new pictures of our products on our Facebook page.

Ten Surprising Places You’re Being Overexposed to Radiation

2010-10-26T07:41:00.000-07:00

Radiation. The word alone scares us, but we’re exposed to it on a daily basis in some unlikely places. While there’s no reason to dictate where you go based on radiation, know that extreme exposure to certain types of radiation can be hazardous to your health. Illnesses include vomiting, nausea and in some cases, a loss of white blood cells (the good cells that fight bad germs in our system). Excessive cumulative exposure to radiation over many years should be avoided. So while our Cancer Blog! Typically talks about radiation oncology risks and side effects, we thought that it might be helpful to remind readers that radiation also comes from other sources.

Maureen Denard reviews the ten most surprising places that you might be exposed to radiation in her posting on http://www.msndegree.com/ and the article can be accessed by clicking here.

In summary, the 10 most surprising places are:
1. Airplanes
2. Living in the plateaus of New Mexico or Colorado
3. Color TV’s
4. Tobacco smoke
5. Military service
6. Packaged food
7. Working in hospitals or clinics where x-rays are performed
8. Smoke detectors
9. Camping out frequently
10. Radon gas

Her conclusion is simple – be aware and exercise caution. “Radiation can be hazardous, but with a heads-up on where you may be overexposed, you can live life carefully. Understand some instances that expose us to radiation are harmless because they’re in such small doses such as getting an x-ray or standing near a microwave, so there’s no need to overhaul your life to stay away from the scary buzzword.”

Remember, if you are out in the sun, we sell some excellent sun protection products on our website. They are SolRx Skin Care products and you can read about them by clicking here.

Coping With Cancer, What You Can Do To Reduce Stress

2010-10-21T04:43:00.001-07:00

We recently came upon a fabulous cancer resource - a website called Coping With Cancer.
This month's feature article is entitled "What You Can Do to Reduce Stress" and is written by Reji Mathew, PhD. Here is a little excerpt from the article:
Stress management is an essential skill set for coping with a cancer diagnosis. Taking the time to learn how to manage stress can yield invaluable benefits; it can build your emotional resilience to buffer the ups and downs of treatment, boost immunity, and help you stay connected to what is meaningful in your life as you go through medical care.

To read the full article on Stress Management for Cancer Patients please click here.

Short Summaries from the European Society for Medical Oncology Conference

2010-10-14T05:24:00.000-07:00

Erbitux, a product manufactured by Eli Lilly and Merck KGaA of Germany delayed the spread of breast cancer, when given in conjunction with cisplatin, by about two months in a study of women with metastatic triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) an aggressive breast tumor with few treatment options. Adding Erbitux to chemotherapy lengthened the time before progression from 1.5 months to 3.7 months according to a mid-stage Phase II study. Twenty percent of Erbitux patients saw their cancer shrink or disappear compared to ten percent of those on chemotherapy only. Erbitux is already approved for advanced colon cancer as well as head and neck tumors. In another finding relating to bowel cancer, the drug may not be effective with some oxaliplatin based chemotherapy combinations. To view a full press release from Reuters click here.

ImmunoGen, Inc. announced some encouraging clinical data for lorvotuzumab mertansine, a targeted anti cancer compound. Lorvotuzumab mertansine is designed to target and kill cancer cells that express CD56, a protein and uses ImmunoGen’s patented Targeted Antipbody Payload technology. This targeted compound (also called IMGN901) is a potential treatment for Merkel cell carcinoma, small cell lung cancer, ovarian cancer, multiple myeloma, and other CD56+ tumors. The finding was from an early stage clinical trial, and will have to be followed up with further disease specific studies. To read more about this study click here.

ImmunoGen TAP Technology Receives Endorsement from Novartis through Collaboration Agreement

2010-10-12T05:01:00.000-07:00

ImmunoGen, Inc. announced on Monday 10/11 that it has entered into a collaboration agreement with Novartis to discover and develop targeted anticancer therapeutics using antibodies to several antigen targets to be named by Novartis.
Novartis will pay a $45 million upfront fee to ImmunoGen for exclusive rights to the Targeted Antibody Payload (TAP) technology with antibodies to a specified number of antigen targets. ImmunoGen is also entitled to receive milestone payments plus royalties on product sales for each target resulting in an anticancer therapeutic.
A TAP compound consists of a tumor-targeting manufactured antibody with one of ImmunoGen’s proprietary, highly potent cancer killing agents attached as a payload. The antibody serves to deliver the payload specifically to tumor cells, and the payload serves to kill these cells. Essentially it is as if a bomb is sent into the tumor, and explodes inside, killing the cancer cells, but preserving the surrounding tissue. The objective is more targeted delivery of chemotherapy and subsequently lower side effects. Described in a different way, the Company's proprietary TAP, technology combines extremely potent small molecule cytotoxic agents with monoclonal antibodies that bind specifically to cancer cells. The Company's TAP technology is designed to increase the potency of tumor-targeting antibodies and kill cancer cells with only modest damage to healthy tissue.
There are currently seven TAP compounds in the clinic, with a wealth of clinical data reported with the technology. ImmunoGen collaborative partners include Amgen, Bayer Schering Pharma, Biogen Idec, Biotest, Genentech (a member of the Roche Group), Sanofi-Aventis, and now Novartis. The most advanced compound using ImmunoGen's TAP technology, T-DM1, is in Phase III testing through the Company's collaboration with Genentech (as highlighted in our prior blog).
For more information about ImmunoGen you can view the comapany website: http://www.immunogen.com/wt/home/home
For the specific press release about the Novartis agreement click here.

Roche’s Drug T-DM1 for Breast Cancer – Phase II Results are “Stunning”

2010-10-10T06:09:00.000-07:00

In advance of the oncology conference of the ESMO (European Society for Medical Oncology) in Milan on Monday, Severin Schwan, Chief Executive Officer of Roche Holding AG announced his opinion that the data from the Phase II trial for T-DM1 was “stunning.” T-DM1is in clinical trials for breast cancer. It is the first of a new kind of “armed antibody” that can carry a cell-killing payload into cancer cells. The drug is being developed with partner ImmunoGen. T-DM1’s results were better than than that of Herceptin plus Taxotere. In addition, clinically adverse side effects were lower.
Herceptin, also a Roche drug, and currently has sales of about $5 billion annually.
More details will be released this week.

T-DM1 has advanced to Phase III testing.
For further details about this press information from Reuters please click here.

For products that can help alleviate unpleasant side effects from current breast cancer treatments including radiation and chemotherapy please view our website www.LotsToLiveFor.com

Celldex Brain Cancer Vaccine Update – More Good News on Immunotherapy

2010-10-07T07:46:00.000-07:00

The Celldex Therapeutics Inc. vaccine brain cancer received an encouraging result according to US Researchers. Patients with the brain cancer glioblastoma who were treated with this vaccine lived nearly twice as long as those who received radiation and chemotherapy.

This type of cancer often kills patients within a year; patients rarely survive more than three years. In this study, many patients are still alive after five years.

The Celldex Therapeutics Inc. vaccine works by targeting a mutation in a gene called the epidermal growth factor receptor, which fuels cancer growth.

The results were published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology online. Researchers contributing to the study were Dr. John Sampson of Duke University in conjunction with researchers from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

To read more about this study access the article on Thompson Reuters here.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/39505662/ns/health-cancer/

You can also refer to The Journal of Clinical Oncology here.
http://jco.ascopubs.org/

For products to help alleviate unpleasant and uncomfortable side effects of radiation and chemotherapy treatment, please click here.
http://www.LotsToLiveFor.com

A Different Approach to Clinical Trials for Breast Cancer – Personalized Treatments

2010-10-05T08:07:00.000-07:00

A recent Wall Street Journal article entitled “A New Rx for Medicine” discussed an entirely new approach to clinical trials for potential breast cancer drugs. The trial, called I-Spy 2 is a joint study between Dr. Laura Esserman, Director of the Breast Care Center at the University of California, San Francisco, and Dr. Don Berry at the MD Anderson Hospital in Houston. I-Spy 2 attempts to match experimental drugs from three companies (currently testing 5 drugs from Abbot Laboratories, Amgen Inc, and Pfizer) with the patients who might have the best response to them, as determined by the molecular makeup of the patient’s tumor. It tests multiple drugs at once with the aim to get the most effective ones into later stage trials more quickly. Conventional treatment is also combined with the drugs being tested.

A few important and differentiating points about the trial are:
1. All tumors are tested for biomarkers or molecular traits.
2. The study focuses on women with aggressive breast cancers that have not spread to other organs.
3. MRI identification and evaluation of the tumor is performed periodically to check the size.
4. Chemotherapy is given before surgery (six months of treatment with chemotherapy)
5. Standard chemotherapy is used as well as the experimental agents.
6. All data and results are evaluated during the treatment as compared to conventional trials where the results may be blind until the study reaches completion.

“The goal is to pair drug and biomarker signatures and graduate them into a small phase III trial that has gotten rid of the subset of patients that don’t benefit” stated Dr. Berry.

To read the full Wall Street Journal Article please click here.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703882404575520190576846812.html

For products to help with side effects of chemotherapy and radiation please click here.
http://www.LotsToLiveFor.com

Gel Sheets for Radiation Burn Care – Cool Magic Gel Sheets and Lind Skin Cooler Rolls

2010-09-08T07:45:00.000-07:00

Gel sheets are a handy and noninvasive product that can be used for radiation burn care. They help to soothe and calm radiation burns. Some of our customers tell us they provide incredible relief from pain and itching and that allows them to continue with daily chores and especially to sleep at night! The great thing about gel sheets is that they can be left on for long periods of time (for some people, up to 3 days) and they provide continuous relief. You can also put the gel sheets over radiation creams such as the RADX radiation therapy cream or Alra Therapy Lotion.

We carry two kinds of gel sheets on our cancer care product website: http://www.LotsToLiveFor.com/.
Cool Magic gel sheets receive rave customer reviews.
Cool Magic Hydrogel Sheets come in 2 sizes
3.75 inches x 3.75 inches OR 6 inches x 8 inches
They can be purchased individually or in a box of 10 sheets all the same size.
• This light-weight, see-through polymer sheet provides instant cooling to burns, abrasions, skin tears, radiation reactions and sensitive wounds, effectively reducing pain.
• The sterile hydrogel polymer sheet consists of 90% water, 10% inactive crosslinked polyethylene oxide matrix, and it transfers heat away from the wound, providing a cooling effect.
• Cooling action relieves pain of burning, itching, or sore skin
• Can be refrigerated for greater cooling capacity
• Allows oxygen flow while preventing bacteria or foreign material from entering wound.
Cool Magic is mentioned enthusiastically in several cancer blogs by cancer patients who have used these dressings and received relief. (for example cancercompass.com)
Suggestions for use for Cool Magic gel sheets:
Apply over wound for a cool, soothing effect.
Change the dressing every 24 to 36 hours.
Hold in place with tape or stretch gauze (you may not need tape or gauze).
Why it works:
Semi-occlusive: allows flow of oxygen
Prevents bacteria and foreign matter from entering wound
Hydrophilic and absorptive – absorbs three times its weight
Cools live nerve endings due to 90% water-10% polyethylene formulation
Will not damage tissue when removed
The dressing can easily be cut to fit the wound
The dressing leaves no wet or sticky feeling when removed
DO NOT USE Cool Magic FOR:
• Full Thickness Wounds
• Infected Wounds
• 3rd Degree Burns

Lind Skin Cooler Rolls which have aloe vera are also featured on our website.
Lindi Skin Coolers provide intense relief to areas that are burned or dehydrated.
Skin Coolers are especially effective on hyper-sensitive, compromised skin. They can be used on radiation dermatitis, sunburn, “hot flashes”, or itchy, dry skin. During radiation therapy, skin should always be washed and free of any product. Skin Coolers should be used after each treatment.
To relieve areas that are burned or dehydrated, look to the immediate cooling comfort and intense hydration of the Lindi Skin Cooler Roll. The natural properties of water and aloe vera combine to help soothe any compromised area and promote a moist, healing environment for healthy skin. Leave on area for 20-45 minutes. Lindi Skin Cooler Roll is designed to be custom cut for your needs and conform to the size and shape of the wound. Simply cut, apply to skin and then discard after one-time use.
The size of the lindiskin cooler roll is - 1 roll (4 in x 60 in)
Lindi Skin cooler rolls are Dermatologist Tested - Allergy Tested - Non-Irritating
Suggestions for use: open the package and drain the excess liquid. Cut Lindi Skin Cooler to the desired size and peel off backing. For maximum comfort, place on skin for 20-45 minutes. Discard used product. Unused product may be stored in a sealed bag or container in the refrigerator. Do not freeze or leave it uncovered.
Caution – the Skin cooler roll is for external use only. Not for use on broken skin.
The Cool Magic gel sheets and the Lind Skin cooler rolls can be cut to size. They can be refrigerated before use, but they don’t have to be. They will naturally adhere to the skin, and peel off easily when you want to remove them.
To order Cool Magic gel sheets or Lind Skin cooler rolls you can click here.
You can also view our other radiation care products by clicking here.
To view all the products we offer click here.

Treatment Options for Dry Mouth and Mouth Sores from Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy

2010-08-17T08:30:00.000-07:00

Oral complications are very common for cancer patients. They can result from chemotherapy medications and / or radiation to the head and neck area. Some common oral complications that can occur are dry mouth and mouth sores.

Dry mouth is not just an uncomfortable side effect; it is also a precursor to what can become further oral complications. Your mouth’s protection comes from three pairs of salivary glands. Cancer treatments can cause salivary gland dysfunction which increases the risk of oral infections and can compromise mouth function and comfort. Persistent dry mouth can also increase decay, and cause bad breath and gum disease.

Biotene Products can help counter some of the effects that chemotherapy and radiation have on the mouth and gums. Click here to view and order Biotene Products.

Oral Hygiene Protocol for cancer patients

1. Cut your food up into small pieces. Take small bites of your food and chew it slowly.
2. Drink plenty of liquids with meals.
3. Avoid sharp or crunchy foods that could scrape or cut your mouth or gums.
4. Gently brush teeth, gums and tongue with an extra soft toothbrush.
5. Use oral care products that are specifically developed for cancer patients and people taking other medications that can affect the mouth.
6. Sip water frequently and suck on ice chips.
7. Stay away from hard sugar candy and carbonated soda.

Product suggestions for cancer mouth sores and cancer dry mouth.

Use a toothpaste that is specifically developed for cancer patients. Biotene toothpaste contains enzymes that boost and replenish your oral defense system. Biotene does not contain Sodium lauryl sulfate, which is a detergent found in many other toothpastes which is known to promote canker sores and mouth ulcers in sensitive mouths.

Biotene sugar-free gum can help to stimulate salivary flow and protect between brushing.

Oral balance gel and Oral Balance Liquid can provide instant relief to serious dry mouth sufferers. Oral Balance products are a saliva substitute. Used before bed, they can provide up to 8 hours of overnight relief. Apply Oral Balance directly onto the tongue and around the mouth.

You can purchase all of the Biotene and Oral Balance products from our website at http://www.lotstolivefor.com/

Salmonella Bacteria May Help Trigger Immune Response to Cancer Cells

2010-08-12T10:49:00.000-07:00

Scientists have discovered that treating tumors with salmonella bacteria can induce an immune response that kills cancer cells, scientists have found -- a discovery that may help them create tumor-killing immune cells to inject into patients.

Researchers from Italy and the United States who worked with mouse and human cancer cells in laboratories said their work might help in developing a new drug in a class of cancer treatments called immunotherapies or therapeutic vaccines, which harness the body's immune system to fight disease.

To read the full article from abc news that this short abstract was excerpted from click here.

The full study was published in the journal Science Translational Medicine on Wednesday 8/11/10.

Skin Care during Chemotherapy and Radiation Oncology Treatments

2010-06-22T11:05:00.000-07:00

Chemotherapy medications can affect a patient’s skin, hair, and nails. The side effects vary by patient and more broadly by the type of chemotherapy that is being administered.

Before starting treatment, it is suggested that the patient ask their oncologist or oncology nurse what specific skin/hair/nail reactions might be caused by the regimen prescribed. That way, they can better prepare by exploring products that will be helpful.

Some common side effects are dry, flaky or itchy skin. If a patient is receiving radiation, the skin can become burned, or an itchy bumpy rash can develop.

Tarceva can cause a rash and other skin changes. Soon after you start taking Tarceva, a rash may appear—most often on your face, upper chest and back. However, a rash may appear anywhere on your body with symptoms such as itching, tenderness, burning, dryness, or cracked skin on your fingers and hands. It may look like acne or dry skin. Rash is a common side effect of Tarceva. If you get a rash while on Tarceva, call your doctor about what to do, as some rashes have been serious. (Source: http://www.tarceva.com/patient/taking/effects.jsp)

Erbitux can also cause a very bad rash, sometimes called an acne-form rash. It can be mild, but sometimes it is severe. You can read more about this rash on the Chemocare website by clicking here, or on the Oncocare website by clicking here.

Another side effect that can occur is hand-foot syndrome (sometimes referred to as Palmar-Plantar erythrodysesthesia). This is an irritation, cracking and peeling of the skin on the hands, and feet. Some medications that can cause hand-foot syndrome in patients are Capecitabine (Xeloda®), 5-Flurouracil (5FU), continuous-infusion doxorubicin, doxorubicin liposomal (Doxil®), and high-dose Interleukin-2.

A study that was published in the Journal of Supportive Oncology (March/April 2009) reviewed some of the skin, hair and nail effects from the toxicities of targeted biologic agents. This article is called Dermatotoxicity Linked to Targeted Biologic Agents and you can read it by clicking here.

A further description about the side effects that can be caused by EGFR Inhibitors including Erbitux, Tarceva and Vectibix can be found on the Mayo Clinic website.

We have products on our website that can help with many skin related side effects.

We sell many products to help radiation burns. They can be found by clicking here

The Lindiskin product line can help with many skin issues. These products can be viewed by clicking here.

Soothing balm can help hand-foot syndrome and you can read about it by clicking here.

Face serum, which comes in either a lavender scent or a citrus scent, can be viewed here. Face serum is an excellent product for individuals who are taking EGFR inhibitors and who might be experiencing the acneform rash as a side effect.

This information is published for informational and helpful purposes and is accumulated from sources that are believed to be reliable. It is not meant as a substitute for individual medical advice. It is suggested that you contact your healthcare provider with any questions you have that are specific to your disease and treatment protocol.

Jevtana Approved for Prostate Cancer Three Months Ahead of Expectations

2010-06-21T10:02:00.000-07:00

The Food and Drug Administration on today approved the first prostate cancer chemotherapy drug found to extend the survival of men who are no longer being helped by other treatments.
The drug is called Jevtana and it is made by Sanofi-Aventis of France. The FDA approved Jevtana to treat prostate cancer that does not respond to hormone-deprivation treatments or to docetaxel, the cancer drug most commonly used to fight prostate tumors. Earlier this year, a study showed Jevtana prolonged survival for those patients by 10 weeks.
Jevtana was approved for use in combination with the steroid prednisone, which is often used in cancer treatment.
In that study, patients who received a treatment regimen including Jevtana lived for about a year and three months after starting treatment. Those who received standard treatment lived for about a year and three weeks. There is hope the drug will have a stronger effect on patients who are not as sick.
Jevtana is given by injection. In the study, patients on Jevtana were more likely to have their tumors shrink than those who were on standard chemotherapy. However no patients in the study experienced a complete remission, or disappearance of all signs of the disease.
This is the second prostate cancer drug that was approved this year, giving prostate cancer patients new options. Prostate cancer, which usually occurs in older men, is the second-most common cause of cancer death among men in the U.S., behind lung cancer, according to Sanofi.

Sources: Associated Press OnLine, Sanofi-Aventis and Federal Drug Adminsistration

More Highlights on New Cancer Treatments and Studies from the American Society of Clinical Oncology Conference

2010-06-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

Chrionic Myeloid Leukemia
Dasatinib (Sprycel) which is made by Bristol-Myers Squibb is effective as an initial treatment for newly diagnosed patients with chronic phase (early stage) chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), according to a phase II clinical trial from The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.
CML is a cancer of the blood-producing cells of the bone marrow. Patients with CML have an acquired genetic mutation (change) in their bone marrow cells called the Philadelphia chromosome, which produces the BCR-ABL protein. This protein causes the bone marrow cells to grow uncontrollably.
Dasatinib is currently approved as a second-line treatment when imatinib (Gleevec), the standard initial treatment, is no longer effective. Dasatinib and imatinib are targeted therapies that disrupt BCR-ABL. Both medications are given as a pill by mouth.
About ten years ago, Gleevec (manufactured by Novartis SA) was considered an amazing discovery with its ability to prolong lives in this deadly form of leukemia. Another drug called Tasigna, also from Novartis showed promise on CML as well. Soon doctors and patients will have a couple of other alternatives to combat this disease.
Advanced Prostate Cancer
For the first time, a new drug called cabazitaxel helped men with advanced prostate cancer that had stopped responding to standard treatment live longer. Currently, men with advanced prostate cancer receive hormone therapy and when hormone therapy does not work, they receive chemotherapy with the drug docetaxel (Taxotere). When the prostate cancer cells stop responding to treatment with docetaxel, meaning that the drug is no longer able to kill the cancer cells, there is no standard treatment, although mitoxantrone (Novantrone) is commonly used. In this study of almost 1,000 men with prostate cancer no longer responding to docetaxel, men who received cabazitaxel lived longer than men who received mitoxantrone. “There are no effective treatments available to help men with advanced hormone-resistant prostate cancer whose disease continues to grow despite standard chemotherapy, and this large study shows that patients who received cabazitaxel live longer,” said lead author Oliver Sartor, MD, Piltz Professor for Cancer Research at Tulane Cancer Center in New Orleans. “This treatment offers men with this advanced form of prostate cancer a new option.” Cabazitaxel is not currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The study referenced is a Phase III study. The drug cabazitaxel is manufactured by Sanofi-Aventis.
Metastatic Breast CancerWomen with breast cancer that has spread lived about two and a half months longer when they received a new drug called eribulin mesylate (manufactured by Eisai) compared with patients who received other treatments recommended by their doctors. Currently, there is no standard treatment for advanced breast cancer and this is the first study to look at this drug. Side effects included a low white blood cell count, fatigue, and nerve problems. This drug is not yet approved.
The source of the information in this post is from the conference highlights and related news releases found on the ASCO website (www.cancer.net). Please consult your medical practitioner to confirm and verify the topics discussed herein.

Advances in Cancer Drugs from the ASCO conference 2010

2010-06-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

June is a month of hope and inspiration for cancer patients and the medical professionals who treat them. The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) holds its annual conference in early June. Companies report on clinical trials of their promising drugs in this forum. Several encouraging studies were presented during the conference this year and are briefly highlighted below.

Pfizer has a prospective drug for patients with advanced non small cell lung cancer called crizofinib which was promising in an expanded Phase 1 study. The drug targets just a small percentage of lung cancer patients, those with a specific alteration of the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene. The results are encouraging and dramatic because the drug stopped the progression of disease in 87% of the patients and reduced tumor size in 57% of this very targeted group of patients. An expanded trial is planned. This is another new targeted therapy as it is very effective on a very small group of patients.

In another study, the targeted therapy drug Avastatin (bevacizumab), which is manufactured by Roche Holding AG, helped to slow the growth of advanced ovarian cancer. In the study Avastatin was shown to extend the time that women with ovarian cancer survived without disease progression from ten to fourteen months. This improvement occurred when patients were given Avastatin with chemotherapy and when the women continued Avastatin for up to 48 weeks after the chemotherapy had ended. Robert A. Burger, MD, Director of the Women’s Cancer Center at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia. said “Based on these results, bevacizumab can be used as an initial treatment for patients with advanced ovarian cancer and other related cancers.”
Avastatin works by starving tumors of their blood supply.

Bristol Myers reported encouraging results from ipilimumab, under development for prolonging the life of melanoma patients. Ipilimumab works by stimulating the body’s immune system to combat the cancer. Patients receiving ipilimumab survived almost four months longer than patients who did not receive this drug. According to lead researcher Steven O’Day, MD, Chief of Research and Director of the Melanoma Program at The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute in Los Angeles, and Clinical Professor of Medicine at the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine. “These results are an important advance for patients with advanced melanoma.”

The source of the information in this post is from the conference highlights found on the ASCO website (www.cancer.net). Please consult your medical practitioner to confirm and verify the topics discussed herein.

Skin Care After Oncology Radiation Therapy

2010-05-27T09:00:00.000-07:00

It is imperative to protect skin that has been exposed to oncology radiation therapy from sun exposure. The skin is very sensitive for up to three years from radiation treatments. We have found that many radiation therapy patients are not aware that their skin remains vulnerable even after their therapy treatments are complete. Below we share some products that offer excellent protection. They are packaged conveniently, and most can be carried on to airplanes when flying.

SolRx Dry Zinc SPF #40 (.25 oz. $4.00)

SolRx Dry Zinc SPF #40 is excellent for facial blocking. This product is truly exceptional. It goes on clear and dries quickly, leaving a matte finish. It stays on in the water. Reapplication is not necessary. Overall it has a great feel and easy application. Small, easy to carry, and great for airline carry on luggage, cycle bags, sport bags.

SolRx MD Matte Zinc SPF #40 (2 oz. $29.00)

SolRx MD Matte Finish SPF #40-8 Hour Waterproof Clear Zinc Sunscreen: Sal-Free, Paraben-Free, Paba-Free, Oil-Free, Unfragranced, goes on clean and dry, stays put for 8 hours and is invisible on the skin: no white sheen. Product rated SPF 40 in the industry's 8 hour waterproof test. This is a fabulous high end sunscreen product. This product is very similar to the SolRx Dry Zinc, but is available in a larger packaging.

SolRx Spray-Dry 8 Hour Spray-On Sun block SPF #35 (2.5 oz. $7.00)

SolRx spray sun block uses a trademarked Water Block waterproof system, and it will stay on all day in the water. Spray-Dry goes on light and dries rapidly. This product is safe for face, hands, seniors, and children. The spray goes on best when held 12 – 18 inches from the body for good, wide coverage. Great for carry on luggage.

RĀDX SPF #44 8 hour Waterproof Sun block with Parsol 1789 - $10.00 (2 oz.)
also available: SolRx SPF #44 or SPF #30 or SPF #15 Sunblock

This sunscreen should be worn daily on treated areas that might be exposed to the sun. Organic aloe gel based, and PABA-free, the formulation is made with an 8 hour waterproof system, so one application per day is usually sufficient. This product is made with Parsol 1789 UVA blocker, and the tubes have flip-top lids. The product leaves an almost matte finish so makeup can be easily applied over it.

SolRx Lip Ice SPF 30 - or TriSport Lip Protectant SPF 30 - $3.00 (per stick)

Daily use of SolRx or Tri Sport Lip Protectant will help to prevent dry lip syndrome. Made with super moisturizers, aloe and vitamins A and E, this SPF 30 product has a real vanilla flavor. SolRx: Long-wearing, moisturizing. As effective after a day outside, as it is in protection against sunburn & wind chap TriSport: Applied once, stays well, moisturizes, protects from both sunburn and wind chap, warm weather, cold weather, swimming, cycling, running.

Lindi Sun from LindiSkin – 4 oz. $25.00 Tropical Scent (spray on mist)

Alcohol free, Lindi Sun offers broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection for everyday use. This lightweight SPF 30+ sunscreen mist provides total coverage, and it's so easy to use. Lindi Sun dries quickly and offers great protection from the sun's damaging rays with a light tropical scent. Lindi Sun is water & perspiration resistant and contains no alcohol, oil or PABA. Parsol ® 1789 is one of the sunscreen ingredients.

There are numerous other skin issues that can develop after radiation therapy. Above we have highlighted the sun protection products. Other products will be discussed in future posts.

FDA Approves Provenge for Men With Advanced Prostate Cancer

2010-04-29T13:58:00.000-07:00

This information is directly from the Dendreon Website (The manufacturer of Provenge)
PROVENGE® (sipuleucel-T) Is Now FDA Approved
PROVENGE is an autologous cellular immunotherapy for the treatment of asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic metastatic castrate resistant (hormone refractory) prostate cancer.

PROVENGE is made using cells from a patient's own immune system, so it cannot be warehoused like many other drugs and requires specialized manufacturing facilities.

Within the first year of FDA approval, Dendreon anticipates being able to manufacture PROVENGE to support the treatment of about 2,000 patients. At launch, treatment will be available through approximately 50 centers across the country previously approved as clinical trial sites. As our manufacturing capacity increases over the next 12 months, PROVENGE will become more broadly available.

How It Works

PROVENGE (PROH-venj) is designed to stimulate a patient’s immune system to target prostate cancer cells. The process of making PROVENGE involves the introduction of a patient’s immune cells to a protein that functions as a prostate cancer-associated antigen. An antigen is a substance that causes the body to react with an immune response. This process activates the patient’s immune cells against prostate cancer cells to help the immune system better fight the disease.

Additional information is provided in the FDA news release located on PR Newswire.

This is very exciting news for the cancer community because it is the first cancer immunotherapy product sometimes called an "individualized cancer vaccine" to receive FDA approval.

We have highlighed Dendreon on our Lots To Live For, Inc. Resources Page for many years.

Here is a NY Times article about the Provenge approval.
F.D.A. Approves Vaccine for Prostate Cancer
By ANDREW POLLACK
Published: April 29, 2010
The treatment is the first to use a so-called cancer vaccine that trains the body’s immune system to fight the disease.

Lots To Live For, Inc. Sponsors a Biathlon to Benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation

2010-04-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

We all wish that many new and innovative ways to treat Breast Cancer will be discovered over the next decade. The Breast Cancer Research Foundation is helping to fund research to discover these treatments.

On May 8, 2009 approximately 200 women will participate in the first annual Upper Saddle River Biathlon to raise money for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

The mission of The Breast Cancer Research Foundation is to achieve prevention and a cure for breast cancer in our lifetime by providing critical funding for innovative clinical and translational research at leading medical centers worldwide, and increasing public awareness about good breast health. A minimum of 85 cents of every dollar goes to research and awareness programs. For more information about the BCRF please refer to their website at: http://www.bcrfcure.org/

For more information about the race you can check out the website at: http://www.usrbiathlon.org/
The race consists of a 2 mile run, a 10 mile bike ride, and concludes with another 2 mile run. There is still space if you would like to join us! Come down to Lion’s Park to encourage the participants, or stand along the course on race day and support us!

We all know someone who has courageously battled breast cancer, and there has been so much progress, but so much more is possible!

Lots To Live For, Inc. offers one stop web shopping for patients combating uncomfortable and unpleasant side effects from chemotherapy and radiation treatment. We have helped many breast cancer patients.

Our website offers high quality:
• Products to help heal and soothe radiation burns
• Cancer skin care products for sensitive and compromised skin
• Cancer hair care products to reduce hair loss and stimulate hair re-growth
• Oral care items for dry mouth and mouth sores
• Nutritional products to help boost the immune system
• Cancer gifts for individuals undergoing radiation and chemotherapy
• Natural, Botanical and Homeopathic products to relieve cancer side effects
• Post radiation sun protection products and unique and effective sunscreen products for everyone

No other company offers such a complete collection of cancer care products to help all types of cancer side effects. Lots To Live For, Inc. is also a cancer care resource offering cancer information and links to useful articles, organizations and research.

In keeping with the Good-Bye to Cancer theme for this Biathlon, Lots To Live For, Inc. has contributed two protective Skin Care products and a sanitizer pen to USR Biathlon participant goody bags.

SolRx Dry Zinc SPF #40
SolRx Dry Zinc SPF #40 is excellent for facial blocking. This product is truly exceptional. It goes on clear and dries quickly, leaving a matte finish. It stays on in the water. Reapplication is not necessary. Overall it has a great feel and easy application.
Tri Sport SPF #30-Lip Ice (Vanilla Flavoring) – Lip Protection
Simply the best for triathlon participants. Applied once, stays well, moisturizes, protects from sunburn and wind chap, warm weather, cold weather, swimming, cycling, running.

If you would like to make a contribution, please write a check payable to:
The Breast Cancer Research Foundation
You can send it to us at:
Lots To Live For, Inc.
PO Box 660
Saddle River, NJ 07458

"There is in every true woman's heart a spark of heavenly fire, which lies dormant in the broad daylight of prosperity; but which kindles up, and beams and blazes in the dark hour of adversity." — Washington Irving

Skin and Personal Care Products for Cancer Patients

2010-04-25T10:00:00.000-07:00

Alra Therapy Lotion for skin care during radiation therapy, Alra Non-Metallic Deodorant and Alra Shampoo

ALRA (short for "all-radiation") Therapy Lotion was the first lotion to specifically address the skin care needs of individuals undergoing radiation therapy. Developed in 1987 by Cosmetic Chemist Henry Ott, in collaboration with Dr. Ronald W. Thompson, F.A.C.R., Director of Radiation Therapy at Cedars-Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA, ALRA Therapy Lotion continues to be widely used and recommended in the nations’ finest cancer treatment centers. For more information about Alra Therapy Lotion including a list of ingredients:
http://www.LotsToLivefor.com/products/therapy-lotion

Responding to requests of oncology professionals, two other ALRA formulations were added to address other side effects of cancer treatment: ALRA Mild Conditioning Shampoo for gentle scalp and hair cleansing during chemotherapy and ALRA Non-Metallic Deodorant, formulated without any metallic salts that can interfere with radiation treatments.

Over 2.5 million Americans have some degree of alopecia, and though there are many causes, hair loss is often the most visible aspect of cancer treatment. Important as the right wigs and head coverings may be, taking extra care of the scalp with a special chemotherapy shampoo is important at this challenging time. And that is exactly why Alra Mild Conditioning Shampoo was created.
.
As hair loss begins, the scalp is often dry, itching, irritated, and tender. Sensitivity to fragrances is common. Alra Mild Conditioning Shampoo is free of any chemical fragrances, artificial color, or drying additives. Natural Oil of Rosemary, along with 100% Aloe Vera Gel help to replenish the scalp.

Oncology nurses came to the developers of Alra in the early 1990’s with a request for a deodorant without aluminum for breast cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy treatments. Why? Because metallic ions have been shown to accelerate, intensify, or misdirect the treatment rays, with potential adverse results. The solution? Alra Non-Metallic Deodorant.

More recently, fears and questions have arisen about the possible linking of antiperspirants and deodorants with subsequent development of breast cancer and/or Alzheimer’s. Research continues with no conclusive evidence to support this hypothesis.

For these reasons, plus underarm irritation and allergic reactions, women now seek a natural deodorant that is radiation safe and does not contain metallic ions. It is vital to read the ingredient listing and avoid products that are labeled as mineral salts or “crystals” (as they contain alum (potassium aluminum sulfate), as well as those containing aluminum and zirconium. All contain metallic ions.

Be safe, select Alra Non-Metallic Deodorant.

All three ALRA products are aloe-vera based, with high levels of efficacy, and contain no alcohol, added colors or fragrance.
http://www.LotsToLiveFor.com/category/alra

Introduced nationally at the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology (ASTRO) in 1988; ALRA Therapy Lotion has been evaluated favorably and recommended by oncologists, oncology nurses and radiation therapists for over twenty years.

ALRA Care products are available without a prescription. ALRA has helped thousands of cancer patients worldwide, as they cope with the side effects of their treatment.

The information in this posting is intended to be helpful and educational, but is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You can print detailed information about the products, including ingredients, and show them to your medical practitioner.

Cancer Side Effects: Radiation Burns

2010-04-17T09:28:00.000-07:00

The purpose of this blog is to serve as a source of information and inspiration to patients, friends and caregivers who are interested in learning about options to reduce some of the uncomfortable side effects of radiation and chemotherapy.

When two courageous members of our own family experienced debilitating side effects from cancer treatment, we searched for products that could help them. We discovered some great items, but also found that they were hard to obtain. We founded Lots To Live For, Inc. (http://www.lotstolivefor.com/) as a one stop shopping resource for cancer side effect solutions.

In our blog posts we will talk about products, give patient feedback, and link to important and current articles relating to oncology and radiation care.

For our first post we focus on Radiation Burns. We have a number of products that are helpful for the skin during radiation therapy. Most of these products have been developed by individuals and families who have undergone radiation therapy treatment themselves, and created their products to target their own uncomfortable side effects.

In this posting we highlight the RADX Product line.
http://www.lotstolivefor.com/category/radx
RADX was developed specifically for the founder of the product line’s brother who, going through intensive radiation treatments, developed burn and skin irritation that the usual prescription products did not help. With over 24 years in the burn relief/skin care business (including sun protection/sun care products), and having been named one of the top 500 privately held companies in America, the founders used their technological expertise to create the RADX products. RADX has been proven repeatedly – in several hundred cancer treatment facilities in the US, including some of the most renowned – to prevent radiation dermatitis and to relieve many of the skin related side effects of radiation therapy.

RADX Moisture Therapy
This is the first line of defense used at the onset of treatments, and then also as a last phase treatment used on irradiated skin after completion of radiation treatment. RADX Moisture Therapy is a lightly fragranced lotion made with Prickly Pear Cactus Gel; this product is excellent for use in reducing and eliminating redness and inflammation. It helps moisturize skin, and if used at start, or early during treatments, has been shown to slow down the process of radiation reaction which frequently occurs with treatments. This is an exceptional product, often used by the nurses themselves. For more information, and an ingredient list:
http://www.lotstolivefor.com/products/moisture-therapy

RADX Radiation Therapy (also called RADX OTC Skin Therapy)
The best selling item in the RADX line - an unfragranced 2 % lidocaine cream made with 61% fresh ground aloe (differentiated from “drug store” aloe in that all the commercially available aloe products are made with freeze dried aloe—like comparing concentrate orange juice with fresh squeezed). This product provides almost immediate (within 5 minutes) relief from radiation reaction/burn. Used regularly during a treatment series, it can slow down point at which skin reactions occur and minimized severity of skin damage. This product is paraben free. For more information, and an ingredient list:
http://www.lotstolivefor.com/products/radiation-therapy

RADX Lip Protectant and SolRx Lip Ice
SPF #30 stick lip product made with vanilla, vitamins A & E, and aloe. Provides needed moisturizer and protectant for head and neck patients. It comes with a cap or is available on a sports cord, and is often worn by nurses nationally while on duty. This lip product is also great for all outdoor enthusiasts including triathletes. For more information:
http://www.lotstolivefor.com/products/lip-ice-spf-30

RADX SPF #44 Sunblock
Packaged specifically for cancer patients and laser clients, irradiated skin should not have sun exposure for 3 years following treatments; and use of a sunblock is commonly prescribed. This product is a Parsol 1789 formulation (the most effective UVA blocker), and features the WaterBlock 8 hour waterproof system (shown to function at 97% to 100% after 8 hours in and out of water—the highest rating in the industry). Female patients have been impressed by this—the product is an exceptional moisturizer, and is light enough that make-up may be applied over it. Entering the summer season, this is a product that everyone can benefit from! For more information:
http://www.lotstolivefor.com/products/8-hour-waterproof-sunblock

Reminder – do not use any of these products immediately before a radiation treatment.

The information in this posting is intended to be helpful and educational, but is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You can print detailed information about the products, including ingredients, and show them to your medical practitioner.