Jan
18
Be Warned Of Inflammatory Breast Cancer
January 18, 2008 | Leave a Comment
As women, we have been told and reminded repeatedly to go for mammograms and to do regular self exams. We are taught to look out for lumps in the breast, as an indication to breast cancer. But what most of us perhaps do not know of a far more aggressive form of breast cancer, known as Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC) that is usually not detected by mammograms or ultrasounds. I most certainly didn’t until I came across this video….
According to ibcresearch.org, IBD “usually grows in nests or sheets, rather than as a confined, solid tumor and therefore can be diffuse throughout the breast with no palpable mass. The cancer cells clog the lymphatic system just below the skin. Lymph node involvement is assumed. Increased breast density compared to prior mammograms should be considered suspicious.”
Surprisingly, a number of young women with IBC had their first symptoms during pregnancy or lactation. Hence, it is a misconception that women in this category are at lower risk for breast cancer. Be warned that “the fact that IBC is the most aggressive form of breast cancer may result in metastases when the diagnosis is made.”
Jan
16
Your BBQ May Be Causing You Cancer
January 16, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Many of us enjoy barbaques (BBQs). During a BBQ, it is always great fun to catch up while our sense of smell is being stimulated by the food cooking on the pit. However, the downside of barbaqued food is that it may contain carcinogens, which are formed during food preparation.
Polycyclic hydrocarbons, such as benzopyrenes, are formed when you are barbecuing meat on an open fire. Although the burnt parts of a honeyed chicken wing may taste delicious, they can cause cancer. In fact, polycyclic hydrocarbons are also one of the main components in cigarette smoke that cause lung cancer.
Most of us also like to consume barbaqued meat. However, an excessive intake of red meats can increase the risk of breast, distal colon, prostate and pancreas cancers. Foods like sausages which contain preservatives are also toxic for our bodies. So it is best not to let our kids consume too many barbaqued sausages.
In a BBQ setting, I notice that most people tend to overeat. I guess this is to be expected especially if there is something cooking the entire evening. In the company of great friends and beer, it is hard to stop munching away!
In a nutshell, it is best to remember that there are other healthier ways of cooking. So if you really want to organise a BBQ for family and friends, consider not having everything barbaqued. Include some foods that are steamed, baked and boiled. Also, do not forget about preparing fresh vegetable salads. While barbaquing, refrain from burning your foods. If you are attending a friend’s BBQ invitation, keep these tips in mind too.




