You probably have heard in recent decades that cancer has been linked with certain viruses. That is true. As reported in “The Dreaded ‘C’ Word, Part 2,” “Cells become cancer cells because of changes to their DNA.” Lisa Fayed is a cancer expert whose article on “Viruses and Cancer” has been reviewed by a board-certified physician and updated on December 29, 2014. Fayed tells us that while not all viruses are dangerous, some can compromise our health causing diseases such as cancer. She informs us “A virus is nothing more than DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) or RNA (ribonucleic acid) wrapped in a protein coat. What makes them unique is that they do not contain the necessary materials to function on their own. They are forced to invade a host cell in order to thrive and reproduce. There are several ways that a virus can cause cancer.”
As also reported in Part 2, Fayed continues “One way is for the virus…to alter the cell’s genetic coding (DNA), causing a mutation.”
Our cancer expert lists more common specific viruses that can lead to cancer:
1. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is linked to cancers such as cervical, vaginal, vulvar, and penile cancers. More recent research even connects HPV to the development of certain types of throat cancers.
2. Hepatitis B or C Viruses can put a person at great risk of developing liver cancer.
3. Epstein Barr Virus (EBV), most commonly recognized as the mononucleosis virus, can cause a few types of lymphoma and nasopharyngeal cancers.
4. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) or AIDS is believed to make the person more vulnerable to cancer because of his/her weakened immune system.
While tremendous research breakthroughs have been made recently in the treatment of cancer, the one strong truth in the fight against cancer, according to the Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA), is “knowledge is power.” Here are the centers’ suggested “Four things that every cancer patient must do after hearing their diagnosis:”
1. Get a second opinion to become aware of the accuracy of the first diagnosis, and the need for nutritional planning, the management of side effects, and the power of family support. 2. Find the right doctors, especially needed in advanced-staged cancers. For any new patient needing advice on treatment options, today’s oncologists can be very honest and informative.
3. Know what questions to ask. CTCA has put together a list of 10 important questions to better prepare the newly-diagnosed cancer patient in his/her future treatment.
4. Stay strong for the fight. The patient’s cancer care team (dietitians and therapists, etc.) will help build the individual’s immune system so that the patient can better withstand any side effects incurred from chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. Cancer Treatment Centers of America is available to answer questions for all cancer patients, especially those with complex cancers or advanced stages of cancer. Their web page is cancercenter.com and the centers’ phone number is 855-587-5528.
Many cancer patients ask how they can remain healthy and cancer-free once their treatments have ended. According to Women’s Health Advisor produced by Weill Cornell Medical College (Volume 19/Number 7/July, 2015), “Diet, exercise, smoking, and other lifestyle choices are known to have a significant impact on the risks of some types of cancer; ask your doctor which activities are most closely associated with the type of cancer you had.”
You don’t want to repeat previous mistakes. Weill Cornell Medical College also mentions, that although your treatment might have ceased, physical and psychological effects of cancer can continue. “For example, fatigue is common in cancer survivors, as are memory and concentration issues,” the newsletter adds. Again the medical college recommends that you speak to your physician who can recommend you to a specialist if needed. If stress and depression continue after your care has ended, it is important to seek help to prevent a weakening of your immune system caused by these two issues. Finally, support groups are highly recommended for camaraderie exchanged with other cancer survivors. Support group info can be obtained through the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Survivors Network (csn.cancer.org).
My Part 4 (next edition) will conclude my cancer topic. Look for research info and lifestyle changes made by Sun City cancer survivors.
