Cancerkin’s news update….
CANCERKIN’S TOMBOLA EXTRAVAGANZA and Christmas card sale will be held at the Royal Free Hospital between 11am and 4pm outside the Atrium on the ground floor on 9th December; there are lots of fantastic prizes to be won. We look forward to seeing you there.
PATIENT SUPPORT GROUP – the next meeting will be held between 11am and 1pm on 8th December at the Cancerkin Centre. The speaker will be Norma Goldman (a pharmacist with a Masters degree in health promotion) author of a newsletter called Menopause Exchange. She will be talking about the menopause generally, with particular reference to issues relating to breast cancer. All are welcome!
In the news…
NICE REJECTS USE OF AVASTIN FOR BOWEL CANCER SUFFERERS…on the basis that they calculate that the annual cost is £36,000 p/a, whereas their maximum limit is £30,000 p/a. Campaigners for the drug estimate that 4-5,000 people with advanced forms of the disease could benefit from the drug which it is claimed can extend life for up to 2 years. Avastin is also used to treat some cases of secondary breast cancer, but according to the Daily Mail, its use in the NHS is in limbo until the bowel cancer issue is resolved. Read more about this here: Daily Mail
BENEFITS OF PETS - a report close to my own heart says that stroking a pet can help patients to halve the amount of painkillers they take. Julia Harvey who led the research project at Loyola University of Chicago said that pet therapy could play an important role in healing. She said: “Evidence suggests animal assisted therapy can have a positive effect on a patient’s emotional and physical well being.” A study for Warwick University found that having a pet dog or cat helped women beat the pain and fear of breast cancer and provided more support than a loving husband! Previous US research has shown that having pets is a great stress buster, with pet owners having lower heart rates and blood pressure. See the story here: Pets
INTERNAL BRA - The Daily Express reports on a new ‘internal’ bra that has been designed to improve sagging or misshapen breasts. It has been designed by Israeli plastic surgeon Professor Eyal Gur of Tel Aviv’s Sourasky Medical Centre who claims that it has none of the drawbacks of breast implants and will look good for years. He said “It would be really beneficial to women who have had partial or full mastectomies. They often complain about their breast shape or position.” The ‘bra’ is fitted under the skin, using keyhole surgery and performed under a local anaesthetic. It is anticipated that this procedure will become available In Europe within 18 months.
TUMOUR CAUSING ENZYME – a breast cancer study published in the journal Cell has identified an enzyme (LOX) that is crucial for turning tissue in the breast into a tumour. Blocking LOX reduced the size and frequency of tumours in mice. Dr Jamie Erler from the Institute of Cancer Research said: “The enzyme triggers a clear physical change in breast tissue and if we could stop this happening, we expect it would slow the growth of any cancers that did develop and make them easier to eradicate”. Dr Alex Willett, head of policy at Breakthrough Breast Cancer said: “The next stage will be to test whether LOX has the same effect in humans…” Read the full story here: BBC news
Nicky Waldman (n.waldman@cancerkin.org.uk) 25 November 2009
Monday, 30 November 2009
Wednesday, 18 November 2009
On the pulse...for people affected by breast cancer
Cancerkin’s news update….
PATIENT SUPPORT GROUP – the next group meeting is on 24th November, 11am - 1pm and we will be demonstrating relaxation techniques.
NEW THERAPIES – dance therapy, hypnotherapy and soul therapy – please ask Jean Hafezi for more info.
CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR – the Cancerkin Centre will be closed 24th December 2009– 1st January 2010 inclusive.
In the news…
10 WAYS TO REDUCE YOUR RISK OF CANCER
World Cancer Research Fund has developed 10 recommendations for people to follow to reduce their risk of cancer. They say that nearly 80,000 cases of cancer in the UK annually could be prevented by following their suggestions, including over 19,000 cases of breast cancer. They emphasise that having a healthy lifestyle is no guarantee against cancer, but that the risk can be reduced considerably. You can read more about these recommendations in WCRF’s press release on their website and on the front page of the Daily Express (16th November 2009).
BREAST REGROWTH TRIALS PLANNED
This story was widely reported last week in the national press and refers to an exciting new technique that scientists hope will enable women who have had a mastectomy to re-grow their breast, using their own cells. There are two trials planned – one in the UK and one in Australia. If the trials are successful, it is thought that this technique, of injecting stem cell enhanced fat tissue (from the patient’s body) into a cavity under the skin, could revolutionise breast reconstruction, potentially producing a result that feels and looks more natural. Professor Kefah Mokbel of the London Breast Institute and St George’s Hospital said: “This is the next step in breast reconstruction surgery. It is potentially a very exciting development”. For more information on this story click here.
ANTI CANCER VACCINE FOR BREAST CANCER SUFFERERS
An article in the Daily Express reports on the start of trials for an anti cancer vaccine. The aim of the drug, called Stimuvax, is not to prevent cancer, but rather to stimulate the immune system to recognise the cancer cells and to destroy them. So far it has been used with some success on patients with lung cancer, but it is hoped that it can be developed to treat other cancers. Currently it is being tested on patients with advanced breast cancer. Dr Oliver Kisker, head of cancer treatment at Merck, which has designed the drug, said: “We are extremely excited about this vaccine. We have seen amazing effects in lung cancer patients and we believe it will work in the future with breast cancer patients.”
Nicky Waldman (n.waldman@cancerkin.org.uk) 16 November 2009
PATIENT SUPPORT GROUP – the next group meeting is on 24th November, 11am - 1pm and we will be demonstrating relaxation techniques.
NEW THERAPIES – dance therapy, hypnotherapy and soul therapy – please ask Jean Hafezi for more info.
CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR – the Cancerkin Centre will be closed 24th December 2009– 1st January 2010 inclusive.
In the news…
10 WAYS TO REDUCE YOUR RISK OF CANCER
World Cancer Research Fund has developed 10 recommendations for people to follow to reduce their risk of cancer. They say that nearly 80,000 cases of cancer in the UK annually could be prevented by following their suggestions, including over 19,000 cases of breast cancer. They emphasise that having a healthy lifestyle is no guarantee against cancer, but that the risk can be reduced considerably. You can read more about these recommendations in WCRF’s press release on their website and on the front page of the Daily Express (16th November 2009).
BREAST REGROWTH TRIALS PLANNED
This story was widely reported last week in the national press and refers to an exciting new technique that scientists hope will enable women who have had a mastectomy to re-grow their breast, using their own cells. There are two trials planned – one in the UK and one in Australia. If the trials are successful, it is thought that this technique, of injecting stem cell enhanced fat tissue (from the patient’s body) into a cavity under the skin, could revolutionise breast reconstruction, potentially producing a result that feels and looks more natural. Professor Kefah Mokbel of the London Breast Institute and St George’s Hospital said: “This is the next step in breast reconstruction surgery. It is potentially a very exciting development”. For more information on this story click here.
ANTI CANCER VACCINE FOR BREAST CANCER SUFFERERS
An article in the Daily Express reports on the start of trials for an anti cancer vaccine. The aim of the drug, called Stimuvax, is not to prevent cancer, but rather to stimulate the immune system to recognise the cancer cells and to destroy them. So far it has been used with some success on patients with lung cancer, but it is hoped that it can be developed to treat other cancers. Currently it is being tested on patients with advanced breast cancer. Dr Oliver Kisker, head of cancer treatment at Merck, which has designed the drug, said: “We are extremely excited about this vaccine. We have seen amazing effects in lung cancer patients and we believe it will work in the future with breast cancer patients.”
Nicky Waldman (n.waldman@cancerkin.org.uk) 16 November 2009
Wednesday, 4 November 2009
On the pulse...for people affected by breast cancer
Cancerkin’s news update….
Children’s Corner – as mentioned a few weeks ago, the Hampstead Women’s Club have generously created a fantastic area for children at the Cancerkin Centre. It is stacked with toys, games, crayons and books and is a lovely environment for Mum’s who are being treated in hospital to spend time with their children away from the ward. The area is now open – so please do visit. On the topic of children, Breast Cancer Care has produced a book called Mummy’s Lump that tries to help explain to young children what their Mum is going through. Copies of the book can be ordered from BCC.
Fundraising events & activities – as you will know, all of our services are provided free of charge. We receive no income from the NHS or other statutory bodies, which means we have to raise all the funds needed to keep Cancerkin running. We are constantly thinking of new ways to raise funds, but we would like to know what you think? Please tell us what sort of events you like going to, whether you would like to hold an event yourself or be involved in one we are running. WE WANT YOUR IDEAS NOW! You can email us at n.waldman@cancerkin.org.uk
In the news…
New Lymph Node Test
The Times and the Daily Mail report on a relatively new procedure to check if cancer in the breast has spread to the lymph nodes. It is called a breast lymph node assay and it could make a real difference to the treatment time for breast cancer.
With this technique, patients having breast cancer surgery to remove a tumour can be tested immediately to see if the disease has spread to their lymph nodes. Usually, a small piece of tissue will be sent for testing, after the initial surgery, to see if the lymph nodes are affected; the tests can take 2-3 weeks. If the nodes are affected, the patient may require further surgery and thus a delay in starting chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. The assay produces results within 30-45 minutes, meaning that if necessary, the surgeon can treat the nodes during the same initial operation, thereby avoiding the need for further surgery. In addition it is thought that this method of testing is much more accurate than sending a sample to a lab for analysis.
This technique is already being used at two hospitals in the UK and in 2010 it is due to be recommended for implementation across the NHS.
Dr Graham Layer, breast surgeon at the Royal Surrey County Hospital in Guildford, who started using the technique in 2007 said:
‘We can see cases where cancer has spread that we could not have spotted with conventional ultrasound or biopsy tests. For those women with a positive result, we are able to deal with that much more quickly than if we had waited for the results of routine pathology tests following a traditional breast cancer operation.’
For more information see:
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/health/article6897567.ece
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-1224258/30-minute-breast-cancer-test-save-lives-thousands.html
Nicky Waldman (n.waldman@cancerkin.org.uk) 4 November 2009
Children’s Corner – as mentioned a few weeks ago, the Hampstead Women’s Club have generously created a fantastic area for children at the Cancerkin Centre. It is stacked with toys, games, crayons and books and is a lovely environment for Mum’s who are being treated in hospital to spend time with their children away from the ward. The area is now open – so please do visit. On the topic of children, Breast Cancer Care has produced a book called Mummy’s Lump that tries to help explain to young children what their Mum is going through. Copies of the book can be ordered from BCC.
Fundraising events & activities – as you will know, all of our services are provided free of charge. We receive no income from the NHS or other statutory bodies, which means we have to raise all the funds needed to keep Cancerkin running. We are constantly thinking of new ways to raise funds, but we would like to know what you think? Please tell us what sort of events you like going to, whether you would like to hold an event yourself or be involved in one we are running. WE WANT YOUR IDEAS NOW! You can email us at n.waldman@cancerkin.org.uk
In the news…
New Lymph Node Test
The Times and the Daily Mail report on a relatively new procedure to check if cancer in the breast has spread to the lymph nodes. It is called a breast lymph node assay and it could make a real difference to the treatment time for breast cancer.
With this technique, patients having breast cancer surgery to remove a tumour can be tested immediately to see if the disease has spread to their lymph nodes. Usually, a small piece of tissue will be sent for testing, after the initial surgery, to see if the lymph nodes are affected; the tests can take 2-3 weeks. If the nodes are affected, the patient may require further surgery and thus a delay in starting chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. The assay produces results within 30-45 minutes, meaning that if necessary, the surgeon can treat the nodes during the same initial operation, thereby avoiding the need for further surgery. In addition it is thought that this method of testing is much more accurate than sending a sample to a lab for analysis.
This technique is already being used at two hospitals in the UK and in 2010 it is due to be recommended for implementation across the NHS.
Dr Graham Layer, breast surgeon at the Royal Surrey County Hospital in Guildford, who started using the technique in 2007 said:
‘We can see cases where cancer has spread that we could not have spotted with conventional ultrasound or biopsy tests. For those women with a positive result, we are able to deal with that much more quickly than if we had waited for the results of routine pathology tests following a traditional breast cancer operation.’
For more information see:
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/health/article6897567.ece
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-1224258/30-minute-breast-cancer-test-save-lives-thousands.html
Nicky Waldman (n.waldman@cancerkin.org.uk) 4 November 2009
Wednesday, 28 October 2009
On the pulse - for people affected by breast cancer
Cancerkin’s news update….
On 2nd November, we are starting Hypnotherapy treatments at the Cancerkin Centre. We have also started Spiritual Healing sessions and appointments are available; however, if you would like to know more about it, Kathryn Scorza is holding a group meeting on 17th November, where people can have a 15 minute ‘taster’ session. To book an appointment or for more information on these or any other treatments, please contact Jean Hafezi (020 7830 2323) at the Cancerkin Centre.
In the news…
NICE to refuse use of drug for women with advanced breast cancer
I reported in March 2009 that GlaxoSmithKline, the manufacturers of the drug Lapatinib (also known as Tyverb), were appealing the decision by NICE[1] to reject funding for use of the drug by the NHS, on the basis that they considered it was not a cost effective use of resources. Lapatinib is commonly used to treat a particular type of advanced breast cancer which has returned, despite use of standard treatments. It is not a cure, but can delay the progression of the cancer. It is thought that about 2000 women could be eligible for the drug.
The appeal has now been heard, but it seems that it will be turned down again, essentially for the same reasons as last time - cost. NICE have reached this decision despite the fact that GSK had offered to fund the first 12 weeks of treatment with the drug and despite their own new rules whereby they were going to be more flexible in their approach to end of life cancer drugs.
This story was carried in many newspapers, including The Guardian at:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2009/oct/21/women-denied-cancer-drug
The Guardian also quotes Alison Jones, member of Cancerkin’s Medical Advisory Panel and Consultant Medical Oncologist at the Royal Free Hospital as saying:
"This is a useful drug for patients with breast cancer. It is not the cure. This is second-line disease and you don't expect stunning results," she said. "Anywhere else in Europe you can have it. I think it should be here."
Triple Negative Breast Cancer
In a regular column on health issues in the Daily Express, Dr Rosemary Leonard gives some information on triple negative breast cancer, explaining what it is and how it can be treated. See the article at www.express.co.uk/ourcomments/view/135147 and more detailed information on this type of breast cancer, which affects approximately 15% of those diagnosed with the disease, can be found at:
http://www.cancerhelp.org.uk/about-cancer/cancer-questions/triple-negative-breast-cancer
Nicky Waldman (n.waldman@cancerkin.org.uk) 26 October 2009
[1] The National Institute for Health & Clinical Excellence – drugs watchdog for England & Wales
On 2nd November, we are starting Hypnotherapy treatments at the Cancerkin Centre. We have also started Spiritual Healing sessions and appointments are available; however, if you would like to know more about it, Kathryn Scorza is holding a group meeting on 17th November, where people can have a 15 minute ‘taster’ session. To book an appointment or for more information on these or any other treatments, please contact Jean Hafezi (020 7830 2323) at the Cancerkin Centre.
In the news…
NICE to refuse use of drug for women with advanced breast cancer
I reported in March 2009 that GlaxoSmithKline, the manufacturers of the drug Lapatinib (also known as Tyverb), were appealing the decision by NICE[1] to reject funding for use of the drug by the NHS, on the basis that they considered it was not a cost effective use of resources. Lapatinib is commonly used to treat a particular type of advanced breast cancer which has returned, despite use of standard treatments. It is not a cure, but can delay the progression of the cancer. It is thought that about 2000 women could be eligible for the drug.
The appeal has now been heard, but it seems that it will be turned down again, essentially for the same reasons as last time - cost. NICE have reached this decision despite the fact that GSK had offered to fund the first 12 weeks of treatment with the drug and despite their own new rules whereby they were going to be more flexible in their approach to end of life cancer drugs.
This story was carried in many newspapers, including The Guardian at:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2009/oct/21/women-denied-cancer-drug
The Guardian also quotes Alison Jones, member of Cancerkin’s Medical Advisory Panel and Consultant Medical Oncologist at the Royal Free Hospital as saying:
"This is a useful drug for patients with breast cancer. It is not the cure. This is second-line disease and you don't expect stunning results," she said. "Anywhere else in Europe you can have it. I think it should be here."
Triple Negative Breast Cancer
In a regular column on health issues in the Daily Express, Dr Rosemary Leonard gives some information on triple negative breast cancer, explaining what it is and how it can be treated. See the article at www.express.co.uk/ourcomments/view/135147 and more detailed information on this type of breast cancer, which affects approximately 15% of those diagnosed with the disease, can be found at:
http://www.cancerhelp.org.uk/about-cancer/cancer-questions/triple-negative-breast-cancer
Nicky Waldman (n.waldman@cancerkin.org.uk) 26 October 2009
[1] The National Institute for Health & Clinical Excellence – drugs watchdog for England & Wales
Monday, 26 October 2009
on the pulse - for people affected by breast cancer
Cancerkin’s news Update….
Breast Cancer Awareness Month:
As one of our many initiatives during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Cancerkin had a stand in the Royal Free promoting the work that we do and the various treatments that we offer patients affected by breast cancer (and their families). We were delighted to welcome so many visitors to the stand, who were treated to delicious fairy cakes! We sold a variety of our goodies, including tee shirts, cosmetics, books and key rings. We raised a massive £1,000 for Cancerkin! So a big thank you to all those who gave so generously and to our volunteers who (wo)manned the stand during the course of the day.
Hampstead Women’s Club:
We are delighted to report on a new collaboration with the Hampstead Women’s Club – a multi national social organisation for women living in the London area, who provide a sense of community through social, educational and charitable activities. They have kindly given their time and resources to creating a new Children’s Corner at the Cancerkin Centre. This will provide a welcoming facility for Mums receiving care at the hospital to be with their children in a comfortable child friendly environment, away from the ward. Children’s Corner will be open soon…watch this space!
In the news…
Vitamin and Mineral Supplements and Cancer Risk:
According to an expert at World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF), high doses of vitamin and mineral supplements can do more harm than good in terms of cancer risk and the message from WCRF and Cancer Research UK is to try and get all the minerals and vitamins you need from a healthy, balanced diet. Yinka Ebo, health information officer at Cancer Research UK, said: "Many large studies have looked at the effects of vitamin supplements on cancer risk and most have found that these supplements have no effect. But some studies have found that, far from improving your health, high doses can be harmful and even increase the risk of cancer."The best way to get your full range of vitamins and minerals and help protect against cancer is to eat a healthy, balanced diet with a wide variety of fruit and vegetables."
For more on this article, follow this link to the Cancer Research website: http://info.cancerresearchuk.org/news/archive/newsarchive/2009/october/19414129
Relationships and Illness:
The Times (15th October 2009) reported on the effect that serious illness can have on a relationship and the different ways in which men and women respond to this. http://women.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/women/relationships/article6875081.ece
The article looks at various studies that have been carried out, with particular reference to the effect of a cancer diagnosis and there are also several stories by cancer sufferers, relating their own experiences.
Nicky Waldman (n.waldman@cancerkin.org.uk)
19th October 2009
Breast Cancer Awareness Month:
As one of our many initiatives during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Cancerkin had a stand in the Royal Free promoting the work that we do and the various treatments that we offer patients affected by breast cancer (and their families). We were delighted to welcome so many visitors to the stand, who were treated to delicious fairy cakes! We sold a variety of our goodies, including tee shirts, cosmetics, books and key rings. We raised a massive £1,000 for Cancerkin! So a big thank you to all those who gave so generously and to our volunteers who (wo)manned the stand during the course of the day.
Hampstead Women’s Club:
We are delighted to report on a new collaboration with the Hampstead Women’s Club – a multi national social organisation for women living in the London area, who provide a sense of community through social, educational and charitable activities. They have kindly given their time and resources to creating a new Children’s Corner at the Cancerkin Centre. This will provide a welcoming facility for Mums receiving care at the hospital to be with their children in a comfortable child friendly environment, away from the ward. Children’s Corner will be open soon…watch this space!
In the news…
Vitamin and Mineral Supplements and Cancer Risk:
According to an expert at World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF), high doses of vitamin and mineral supplements can do more harm than good in terms of cancer risk and the message from WCRF and Cancer Research UK is to try and get all the minerals and vitamins you need from a healthy, balanced diet. Yinka Ebo, health information officer at Cancer Research UK, said: "Many large studies have looked at the effects of vitamin supplements on cancer risk and most have found that these supplements have no effect. But some studies have found that, far from improving your health, high doses can be harmful and even increase the risk of cancer."The best way to get your full range of vitamins and minerals and help protect against cancer is to eat a healthy, balanced diet with a wide variety of fruit and vegetables."
For more on this article, follow this link to the Cancer Research website: http://info.cancerresearchuk.org/news/archive/newsarchive/2009/october/19414129
Relationships and Illness:
The Times (15th October 2009) reported on the effect that serious illness can have on a relationship and the different ways in which men and women respond to this. http://women.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/women/relationships/article6875081.ece
The article looks at various studies that have been carried out, with particular reference to the effect of a cancer diagnosis and there are also several stories by cancer sufferers, relating their own experiences.
Nicky Waldman (n.waldman@cancerkin.org.uk)
19th October 2009
Monday, 19 October 2009
ON THE PULSE… for people affected by breast cancer
Cancerkin’s news Update….
Intrabeam handover and Santy Parbhoo
On 8th October, Cancerkin celebrated the formal handover of the Intrabeam Machine to the Royal Free Hospital and honoured the work of our much loved Chairman, Mr Santilal Parbhoo, who stepped down from the Chair and became our Life President.
The Intrabeam machine is part of Cancerkin’s commitment to research into breast cancer and its treatment. Cancerkin raised over £200,000 to buy the machine to study the effect of a single dose of intra-operative radiotherapy as against several weeks of conventional radiotherapy. The study is part of a multi centre international study known as TARGIT and during the evening Mo Keshtgar, consultant surgical oncologist and member of the TARGIT team, updated the guests on exciting developments in the study. He, along with Trustee Chair of the hospital, Dominic Dodd and new Chair of Cancerkin, Dr John Carrier, also praised the pioneering work of Santy Parbhoo at this hospital and in the creation of Cancerkin and its renowned lymphoedema clinic. Santy was presented with a silver photograph frame as a small token of appreciation by his fellow trustees and after his response and thanks to those with whom he has worked over the years, guests enjoyed champagne and nibbles!
In the news…
The annual conference of the National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) has resulted in a lot of headline material on breast cancer and its treatment. Also, with October being breast cancer awareness month, there have been many articles in the press on this subject. Here is a selection of the articles:
In the Mirror on Sunday magazine (04.10.09), there was an article on what they call ‘cancer-fighting foods’ - foods they say can help cut your risk of cancer and those that should be avoidedhttp://www.mirror.co.uk/life-style/sex-health/2009/10/05/eat-your-way-to-beating-cancer-115875-21723000/
The Cancer Research UK website reports on the results of a survey published online in the British Journal of Cancer which shows that an estimated 40% of people in Britain would delay going to their GP with cancer symptoms because they did not want to bother them, were worried what they would find or did not want to waste their time. Professor Jane Wardle, from Cancer Research UK said: "A lot of work now needs to be done to help people feel like they can go to their doctor as soon as they find something that could be a symptom of cancer."Changes to public attitudes along with changes within the healthcare system will be fundamental to making a difference."Cancer is more likely to be treated successfully when it's spotted early, so it's crucial that we do something with the results of this survey quickly." http://info.cancerresearchuk.org/news/archive/pressreleases/2009/october/late-cancer-diagnosis
BBC News reports on a government grant that has been awarded to a charity called ‘My New Hair’ (www.mynewhair.org.uk) set up by celebrity hairdresser Trevor Sorbie. The charity aims to train hairdressers in wig styling and hair-care for cancer patients who have lost their hair after chemotherapy. The government grant will extend training and education to nurse led training to hairdressers in aftercare for patients whose hair is growing back and the psychological implications of hair loss.
In Monday’s edition of the Daily Telegraph: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/women_shealth/6256195/Breast-Cancer-Why-are-so-few-women-having-reconstructive-surgery.html
They report on the findings from the National Mastectomy and Breast reconstruction Audit that just 48% of women with breast cancer were offered the option of reconstruction in 2007/08. This is despite the fact that NICE guidelines say that 100% of eligible patients should be offered this procedure. They also talk about various breast reconstruction options with Dr Charles Nduka a consultant plastic and reconstructive surgeon.
Reuters http://www.reuters.com/article/latestCrisis/idUSL5638086 has an article on tamoxifen and a study in Germany that has identified a gene enabling some people to respond to the drug better than others. If all patients could be tested for this gene, it seems that it might be possible to prescribe from the start one of the alternative drugs for those who will be unable to benefit from tamoxifen, thereby creating a more personalised treatment.
An article in the Daily Mail talks about a technique using stem cells and liposuction to replace missing breast tissue after removal of a lump and also to smooth out scars. Fat is removed from the stomach, hips or thighs of the patient and the stem cells are separated and treated before being recombined with the fat cells and then injected back into the breast. Mr Nader Khonji, a plastic surgeon who is leading the trial at the Singleton Hospital in Swansea said: “There are no new scars involved and the system encourages the growth of new blood vessels which has been the failing of fat grafts in the past”. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-1218860/Stem-cells-hide-scars-New-hope-women-disfigured-cancer.html
Finally, back to the Daily Telegraph, for a report on the possibility of a stem cell vaccine for cancer. Research in the US and China is still in its infancy and is related to bowel cancer at the moment, but the hope is that the work could be widened to provide a vaccine for all cancers.http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/healthnews/6269084/Stem-cell-vaccine-for-cancer-step-nearer.html
14th October 2009
Intrabeam handover and Santy Parbhoo
On 8th October, Cancerkin celebrated the formal handover of the Intrabeam Machine to the Royal Free Hospital and honoured the work of our much loved Chairman, Mr Santilal Parbhoo, who stepped down from the Chair and became our Life President.
The Intrabeam machine is part of Cancerkin’s commitment to research into breast cancer and its treatment. Cancerkin raised over £200,000 to buy the machine to study the effect of a single dose of intra-operative radiotherapy as against several weeks of conventional radiotherapy. The study is part of a multi centre international study known as TARGIT and during the evening Mo Keshtgar, consultant surgical oncologist and member of the TARGIT team, updated the guests on exciting developments in the study. He, along with Trustee Chair of the hospital, Dominic Dodd and new Chair of Cancerkin, Dr John Carrier, also praised the pioneering work of Santy Parbhoo at this hospital and in the creation of Cancerkin and its renowned lymphoedema clinic. Santy was presented with a silver photograph frame as a small token of appreciation by his fellow trustees and after his response and thanks to those with whom he has worked over the years, guests enjoyed champagne and nibbles!
In the news…
The annual conference of the National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) has resulted in a lot of headline material on breast cancer and its treatment. Also, with October being breast cancer awareness month, there have been many articles in the press on this subject. Here is a selection of the articles:
In the Mirror on Sunday magazine (04.10.09), there was an article on what they call ‘cancer-fighting foods’ - foods they say can help cut your risk of cancer and those that should be avoidedhttp://www.mirror.co.uk/life-style/sex-health/2009/10/05/eat-your-way-to-beating-cancer-115875-21723000/
The Cancer Research UK website reports on the results of a survey published online in the British Journal of Cancer which shows that an estimated 40% of people in Britain would delay going to their GP with cancer symptoms because they did not want to bother them, were worried what they would find or did not want to waste their time. Professor Jane Wardle, from Cancer Research UK said: "A lot of work now needs to be done to help people feel like they can go to their doctor as soon as they find something that could be a symptom of cancer."Changes to public attitudes along with changes within the healthcare system will be fundamental to making a difference."Cancer is more likely to be treated successfully when it's spotted early, so it's crucial that we do something with the results of this survey quickly." http://info.cancerresearchuk.org/news/archive/pressreleases/2009/october/late-cancer-diagnosis
BBC News reports on a government grant that has been awarded to a charity called ‘My New Hair’ (www.mynewhair.org.uk) set up by celebrity hairdresser Trevor Sorbie. The charity aims to train hairdressers in wig styling and hair-care for cancer patients who have lost their hair after chemotherapy. The government grant will extend training and education to nurse led training to hairdressers in aftercare for patients whose hair is growing back and the psychological implications of hair loss.
In Monday’s edition of the Daily Telegraph: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/women_shealth/6256195/Breast-Cancer-Why-are-so-few-women-having-reconstructive-surgery.html
They report on the findings from the National Mastectomy and Breast reconstruction Audit that just 48% of women with breast cancer were offered the option of reconstruction in 2007/08. This is despite the fact that NICE guidelines say that 100% of eligible patients should be offered this procedure. They also talk about various breast reconstruction options with Dr Charles Nduka a consultant plastic and reconstructive surgeon.
Reuters http://www.reuters.com/article/latestCrisis/idUSL5638086 has an article on tamoxifen and a study in Germany that has identified a gene enabling some people to respond to the drug better than others. If all patients could be tested for this gene, it seems that it might be possible to prescribe from the start one of the alternative drugs for those who will be unable to benefit from tamoxifen, thereby creating a more personalised treatment.
An article in the Daily Mail talks about a technique using stem cells and liposuction to replace missing breast tissue after removal of a lump and also to smooth out scars. Fat is removed from the stomach, hips or thighs of the patient and the stem cells are separated and treated before being recombined with the fat cells and then injected back into the breast. Mr Nader Khonji, a plastic surgeon who is leading the trial at the Singleton Hospital in Swansea said: “There are no new scars involved and the system encourages the growth of new blood vessels which has been the failing of fat grafts in the past”. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-1218860/Stem-cells-hide-scars-New-hope-women-disfigured-cancer.html
Finally, back to the Daily Telegraph, for a report on the possibility of a stem cell vaccine for cancer. Research in the US and China is still in its infancy and is related to bowel cancer at the moment, but the hope is that the work could be widened to provide a vaccine for all cancers.http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/healthnews/6269084/Stem-cell-vaccine-for-cancer-step-nearer.html
14th October 2009
Monday, 5 October 2009
ON THE PULSE… for people affected by breast cancer
Cancerkin’s news Update….
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and this is already proving to be a busy month for Cancerkin. On 1st October, Floris held a fundraising event for us at their Jermyn St shop. For more details of the evening, see the ‘latest news’ section on our website at www.cancerkin.org.uk
On 8th October, we are celebrating the formal handover of the Intrabeam machine to the Royal Free Hospital; Cancerkin raised over £200,000 towards the cost of this piece of equipment, which it is hoped could revolutionise radiotherapy treatment for women with breast cancer. We will also be celebrating with our much loved Chairman, Santy Parbhoo, who is standing down from this position to become President of Cancerkin.
On 14th October, we will be manning a stand in the hospital, telling visitors and patients about Cancerkin and the work that we do. Please do come along and visit us on the day, just by the Atrium or indeed on any weekday 9am – 5pm in the Cancerkin Centre.
In the news…
Critical Illness and travel insurance
A report in Telegraph Money on Saturday 3rd October http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/personalfinance/insurance/criticalillness/6251215/How-important-is-critical-illness-cover.html talked about the importance of critical illness cover in an age where medical advances mean that many more people are surviving conditions (e.g. cancer and heart attacks) that have killed previous generations. They point out that according to the Office for National Statistics, more than 80% of women diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK are still alive 5 years later. The article refers to the fact that one in five claims for this type of cover is for breast cancer, but points out that there may be conditions attached to the policy preventing a full or even partial pay out. Kevin Carr, spokesman for PruProtect said: “Breast cancer is covered by critical illness policies, but many policies exclude ‘early stage cancer’ which is when cancer is considered to be non-invasive. Breast cancer may be considered to be ‘early stage’ even if a lumpectomy or mastectomy is required and therefore, many insurers will not pay out”.
However, there are insurers who will pay out in whole or in part. It is important to check the wording and conditions covered or excluded. Many people do have critical illness cover and have either forgotten about it or are not aware that it could cover the hard financial situation they are in.
A further article in the same section of the newspaper talks about the difficulty many cancer patients (some, who were successfully treated many years ago) have in finding travel insurance. In some cases, they are charged significantly higher premiums and in others, they are refused altogether. However, they do give examples of specialist providers such as Insurepink, Free Spirit, MRL, GetMy.com, Saga, Flexicover Direct, Cancertravelinsurance.com and insurecancer.com. Please note that these companies are not recommended, but are mentioned on the basis that they are known to offer insurance to those with pre existing medical conditions.
5th October 2009
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and this is already proving to be a busy month for Cancerkin. On 1st October, Floris held a fundraising event for us at their Jermyn St shop. For more details of the evening, see the ‘latest news’ section on our website at www.cancerkin.org.uk
On 8th October, we are celebrating the formal handover of the Intrabeam machine to the Royal Free Hospital; Cancerkin raised over £200,000 towards the cost of this piece of equipment, which it is hoped could revolutionise radiotherapy treatment for women with breast cancer. We will also be celebrating with our much loved Chairman, Santy Parbhoo, who is standing down from this position to become President of Cancerkin.
On 14th October, we will be manning a stand in the hospital, telling visitors and patients about Cancerkin and the work that we do. Please do come along and visit us on the day, just by the Atrium or indeed on any weekday 9am – 5pm in the Cancerkin Centre.
In the news…
Critical Illness and travel insurance
A report in Telegraph Money on Saturday 3rd October http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/personalfinance/insurance/criticalillness/6251215/How-important-is-critical-illness-cover.html talked about the importance of critical illness cover in an age where medical advances mean that many more people are surviving conditions (e.g. cancer and heart attacks) that have killed previous generations. They point out that according to the Office for National Statistics, more than 80% of women diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK are still alive 5 years later. The article refers to the fact that one in five claims for this type of cover is for breast cancer, but points out that there may be conditions attached to the policy preventing a full or even partial pay out. Kevin Carr, spokesman for PruProtect said: “Breast cancer is covered by critical illness policies, but many policies exclude ‘early stage cancer’ which is when cancer is considered to be non-invasive. Breast cancer may be considered to be ‘early stage’ even if a lumpectomy or mastectomy is required and therefore, many insurers will not pay out”.
However, there are insurers who will pay out in whole or in part. It is important to check the wording and conditions covered or excluded. Many people do have critical illness cover and have either forgotten about it or are not aware that it could cover the hard financial situation they are in.
A further article in the same section of the newspaper talks about the difficulty many cancer patients (some, who were successfully treated many years ago) have in finding travel insurance. In some cases, they are charged significantly higher premiums and in others, they are refused altogether. However, they do give examples of specialist providers such as Insurepink, Free Spirit, MRL, GetMy.com, Saga, Flexicover Direct, Cancertravelinsurance.com and insurecancer.com. Please note that these companies are not recommended, but are mentioned on the basis that they are known to offer insurance to those with pre existing medical conditions.
5th October 2009
Monday, 21 September 2009
ON THE PULSE… for people affected by breast cancer
Cancerkin’s news Update….
EXERCISE CLASSES
Please remember that we run the following weekly exercise classes:
Alexander Technique; Pilates (twice a week); Tai Chi (twice a week); Yoga
The classes are a good opportunity for a gentle work out and to meet old and new friends in a welcoming environment.
All are welcome at these classes, but it is helpful if you can let us know in advance if you plan to be there.
Remember that all classes are free of charge.
We look forward to seeing you soon.
In the news…
NEW DRUG TO TREAT UP TO A THIRD OF CANCERS
PARP inhibitors have already shown promise in dealing with some breast and ovarian cancers, which are strongly linked to BRCA gene mutations; but according to a recent study[1], there is a possibility that they could be used to treat several other cancers too.
Cells with faulty PTEN genes have been found to be 25 times more sensitive to the inhibitors than cells with normal PTEN. Faults in the PTEN gene account for 30-80% of breast, prostate, melanoma, womb and colon cancers.
Dr Chris Lord, lead researcher at Breakthrough Breast Cancer said: ‘This new class of drugs could potentially make a big difference for many thousands of cancer patients, including some with very limited treatment options’.
Professor Alan Ashworth, director of Breakthrough Breast Cancer Research Centre at the Institute of Cancer Research said:‘These results are exciting because they show that PARP inhibitors are potentially a powerful targeted treatment with few side effects which may help a broad range of cancer patients.’
See the following for further information:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/8256494.stm
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/news/2639319/Wonder-drug-is-hailed-as-a-cancer-buster.html
16th September 2009
[1] The study appears in the EMBO Molecular Medicine journal.
EXERCISE CLASSES
Please remember that we run the following weekly exercise classes:
Alexander Technique; Pilates (twice a week); Tai Chi (twice a week); Yoga
The classes are a good opportunity for a gentle work out and to meet old and new friends in a welcoming environment.
All are welcome at these classes, but it is helpful if you can let us know in advance if you plan to be there.
Remember that all classes are free of charge.
We look forward to seeing you soon.
In the news…
NEW DRUG TO TREAT UP TO A THIRD OF CANCERS
PARP inhibitors have already shown promise in dealing with some breast and ovarian cancers, which are strongly linked to BRCA gene mutations; but according to a recent study[1], there is a possibility that they could be used to treat several other cancers too.
Cells with faulty PTEN genes have been found to be 25 times more sensitive to the inhibitors than cells with normal PTEN. Faults in the PTEN gene account for 30-80% of breast, prostate, melanoma, womb and colon cancers.
Dr Chris Lord, lead researcher at Breakthrough Breast Cancer said: ‘This new class of drugs could potentially make a big difference for many thousands of cancer patients, including some with very limited treatment options’.
Professor Alan Ashworth, director of Breakthrough Breast Cancer Research Centre at the Institute of Cancer Research said:‘These results are exciting because they show that PARP inhibitors are potentially a powerful targeted treatment with few side effects which may help a broad range of cancer patients.’
See the following for further information:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/8256494.stm
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/news/2639319/Wonder-drug-is-hailed-as-a-cancer-buster.html
16th September 2009
[1] The study appears in the EMBO Molecular Medicine journal.
Monday, 7 September 2009
MANY THOUSANDS A YEAR COULD BE SAVED BY EXERCISE AND DIET…
…so says the latest study by the World Cancer Relief Fund (WCRF) in an update of their cancer prevention report in 2007, which looked at many different types of the disease.
The study says that up to 4 in 10 cases could be avoided (up to 18,000 per annum) if women in this country were more active, drank less and kept a healthy weight.
This report was picked up by a number of newspapers including the Daily Mail[1] and the Guardian[2].
Professor Martin Wiseman, medical and scientific adviser for the WCRF said the report:
“represents the clearest picture we have ever had” on how lifestyle affects the risk of breast cancer.
7th September 2009
[1] www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1210331
[2] www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2009/sep/01/breast-cancer-report-diet-health
The study says that up to 4 in 10 cases could be avoided (up to 18,000 per annum) if women in this country were more active, drank less and kept a healthy weight.
This report was picked up by a number of newspapers including the Daily Mail[1] and the Guardian[2].
Professor Martin Wiseman, medical and scientific adviser for the WCRF said the report:
“represents the clearest picture we have ever had” on how lifestyle affects the risk of breast cancer.
7th September 2009
[1] www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1210331
[2] www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2009/sep/01/breast-cancer-report-diet-health
LOW TAKE UP RATE FOR FREE PRESCRIPTIONS
Since 1st April 2009, cancer patients in England have been entitled to free prescriptions, but it seems that only a minority are taking advantage of this, with approximately 90,000 of an estimated 150,000 people with cancer in England still paying for their prescriptions (£7.20 each).
To get the exemption from charges, patients must complete a form which they can get from their GP or cancer specialist and which needs to be signed by the GP or specialist. The form is then sent to the NHS Business Services Authority and the patient is given a five year exemption certificate, in the form of a credit card sized document, which you can carry in your wallet.
The scheme is available to people undergoing treatment for cancer or for the effects of cancer treatment.
Martin Ledwick, head of Cancer Research UK's information nurses, said:
“It's disappointing if cancer patients are missing out on the free prescriptions they're now entitled to have. These prescriptions will help tens of thousands of people struggling with the heavy cost of having cancer.”
For more information see: www.news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/8227371.stm
7th September 2009
To get the exemption from charges, patients must complete a form which they can get from their GP or cancer specialist and which needs to be signed by the GP or specialist. The form is then sent to the NHS Business Services Authority and the patient is given a five year exemption certificate, in the form of a credit card sized document, which you can carry in your wallet.
The scheme is available to people undergoing treatment for cancer or for the effects of cancer treatment.
Martin Ledwick, head of Cancer Research UK's information nurses, said:
“It's disappointing if cancer patients are missing out on the free prescriptions they're now entitled to have. These prescriptions will help tens of thousands of people struggling with the heavy cost of having cancer.”
For more information see: www.news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/8227371.stm
7th September 2009
Wednesday, 19 August 2009
A STORY OF TWO MOTHERS
Here are links to two stories in the news this week concerning mothers and breast cancer.
The first was reported in The Daily Telegraph and is an extract from Sarah Gabriel’s book Eating Pomegranates: A Memoir of Mothers, Daughters and Genes. The author lost her own mother to breast cancer and the book deals with how she tries to tell her own young daughters about her diagnosis.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/6016056/How-do-I-tell-my-children-Ive-got-cancer.html
The second story was reported in the Daily Mail and concerns Rebekah Gibbs, actress, who stars in BBC1’s Casualty. She was diagnosed with HER2 breast cancer at 36, just 9 weeks after giving birth to her first child, although she had found a lump part way through the pregnancy. She is taking part in a trial of the drug Lapatinib[1] (which can be taken in pill form), to see if it can be used as an alternative to Herceptin[2] (which is taken intravenously) in reducing the recurrence of cancer. At the moment, Lapatinib is used to treat secondary breast cancers that are not responding to other treatment.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-1207194/Why-Casualty-star-Rebekah-Gibbs-trying-new-potentially-dangerous-breast-cancer-drug.html
19th August 2009
[1] http://www.breastcancercare.org.uk/server/show/nav.800
[2] http://www.breastcancercare.org.uk/server/show/nav.397
The first was reported in The Daily Telegraph and is an extract from Sarah Gabriel’s book Eating Pomegranates: A Memoir of Mothers, Daughters and Genes. The author lost her own mother to breast cancer and the book deals with how she tries to tell her own young daughters about her diagnosis.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/6016056/How-do-I-tell-my-children-Ive-got-cancer.html
The second story was reported in the Daily Mail and concerns Rebekah Gibbs, actress, who stars in BBC1’s Casualty. She was diagnosed with HER2 breast cancer at 36, just 9 weeks after giving birth to her first child, although she had found a lump part way through the pregnancy. She is taking part in a trial of the drug Lapatinib[1] (which can be taken in pill form), to see if it can be used as an alternative to Herceptin[2] (which is taken intravenously) in reducing the recurrence of cancer. At the moment, Lapatinib is used to treat secondary breast cancers that are not responding to other treatment.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-1207194/Why-Casualty-star-Rebekah-Gibbs-trying-new-potentially-dangerous-breast-cancer-drug.html
19th August 2009
[1] http://www.breastcancercare.org.uk/server/show/nav.800
[2] http://www.breastcancercare.org.uk/server/show/nav.397
Monday, 17 August 2009
DEADLY STING OF NANOBEES
There has been much reporting in the press this week of new trials using ‘nanobees’ that effectively sting cancerous tumours to death. The poisonous chemical in a bee sting, melittin, is attached to ‘nanoparticles’ (tiny molecules) which are in turn injected into the patient. The melittin attacks cancerous cells, but leaves healthy cells alone. So, one of the potential advantages of this form of treatment over chemotherapy is that it is more targeted, meaning doses could be lower with far fewer side effects. Tests on groups of mice with cancerous breast tumours showed that after 4-5 injections of melittin-carrying nanobees over several days, the growth of these tumours was slowed by nearly 25%. The team working on these studies plan to start human trials next year.
The study was published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation on 10th August 2009.
Read more about these trials at:
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/health/article6790927.ece
and
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/08/090810174226.htm
12th July 2009
The study was published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation on 10th August 2009.
Read more about these trials at:
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/health/article6790927.ece
and
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/08/090810174226.htm
12th July 2009
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