a holistic approach to cancer prevention

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Holistic Approach to Cancer Prevention:

A Natural Health on the Web Special Report

By Health Advocate Frank Mangano

1 © Mangano Publishing Corporation



Holistic Approach to Cancer Prevention:

A Natural Health on the Web Special Report

By Health Advocate Frank Mangano




Medical Disclaimer

This report is intended for purposes of reference and for your own education, and does not seek to replace professional or medical advice. The author intends to equip you with the right tools tomake wise and informed decisions regarding your health. This should not be used to substituteany treatment or plan that is recommended or prescribed by your doctor.

The author and the publisher of this material are not health care professionals, and expresslydisclaim any responsibility for the effects that will arise due to the application of the information presented in this material.

Always consult a qualified health care provider prior to engaging in a supplementary, dietary, or exercise program. Your use of the information herein indicates your agreement to these terms.




Table of Contents

Understanding Cancer 5

•Malignant tumors 5

• Benign Tumors 6

Naming Cancer 6

Prevalence and Mortality rates 7

The Most Common Types of Cancer 8

Causes 8

Treatment Vs Holistic Cancer Prevention 9

Prevention: A Better Approach Against Cancer 10

• The Risk Factors, Definition and Classification 10

• Unavoidable Risk Factors 12

◦ Genetics 12

◦ The Factor of Age 15

• Avoidable Risk Factors 17

◦ Smoking, Quitting Nicotine Addiction 18

◦

Alcohol 21◦ Other Risk Factors 23

• Cancer-Fighting Foods 23

◦ Foods Rich in Folate 23

◦ Foods Rich in Vitamin D 25

◦ Green Tea 27

◦ Cruciferous Vegetables 29

◦Tomatoes 31

◦ Berries 32

• Lifestyle Interventions 34

• References 38




Understanding Cancer

Cancer accounts for around 13 percent of all deaths in the world in 2008, with the actual

numbers reaching 7.6 million individuals; this is according the World Health Organization

(WHO) through the GLOBOCAN, a WHO project with the aim of gathering information

regarding cancer mortality and incidence worldwide.

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the world. The disease occurs when normal cells

exhibit uncontrollable behavior and invade neighboring healthy tissues or spread to other remote

location through the blood stream or the lymphatic system. Cancer begins when new cells are

formed when there is no need for such new cells or when old cells fail to die when they should.

This abnormality causes the formation of tumor. Tumors are either classified as malignant or

benign.

Malignant tumors. The growth of malignant tumors

poses a serious threat to the person's overall health and

may be life-threatening. Surgeries can be performed in

order to remove the tumors to prevent it from

developing into a more serious stage. But often times,

they will tend to grow back. Cell from these tumors

may also invade other tissues and organs by spreading

through the lymphatic system or the blood stream.

Once cancer cells are able to successfully settle and


3-D rendition of a breast

cancer tumor.



infect other parts of the body, they form new tumors. The spread of cancer cells in the

body is a process called metastasis.

Benign Tumors. The appearance of benign tumors in certain parts of the body is rarely

life-threatening. They can be easily removed without the threat of growing back. The

cells that composes benign tumors do not have the ability to infect other cells and nor do

they spread in other parts of the body. In diagnosing cancer, medical experts will first

have to know whether the tumors are benign or malignant before they can come up with

their next action plan.

Naming Cancer

Cancer is named based on the location where they first started. In breast cancer, for example, the

growth of cancer cells began in the area of the breast. Cancer cases that have been diagnosed at a

later stage will sometimes be located in more than one location. But note that cancer cells found

in the stomach that originated from the breast are still breast cancer cells. Doctors often refer to

this condition as a metastatic disease or call the new tumor as distant tumor .

Most cancers are staged according the extent of the invasion and if they had spread to other parts

of the body through the blood stream or the lymph nodes. A series of procedures and

examinations are needed in order to determine the stage of the cancer. And then from here on,

treatment will be tailored according to the severity of the condition.




Prevalence and Mortality Rates

According to the American Cancer Society, a private community-based health organization

dedicated to fighting cancer through education, research service and advocacy, the average

survival rate of cancer based on the data from 1999 to 2005 is 68 percent. This is relatively

higher than the average survival rate of 50 percent in 1975 to 1977. The rise of cancer survival

rate is seen as a result of earlier and more accurate diagnosis and the availability of more

effective treatment. But cancer survival rates highly fluctuate from one cancer type to another.

The stage when the condition was diagnosed also has a major effect on the success of the

treatment. The ACS added that data regarding cancer survival rates need to be interpreted with

caution since cancer can recur even after 5 years.

For 2010, 1.5 million new cancer cases are predicted with relatively equal prevalence in men and

women. And out of these new cases and other old cases of cancer, more than 560,000 deaths are

expected. The estimations and predictions made by the American Cancer Society had been

reviewed and approved by the North American Association of Central Cancer Registries and

covers around 89 percent of the total US population. The National Cancer Institute, a state-

subsidized agency governed under the US Department of Health and Human Services, reported

that around 11.4 million individuals with cancer history were alive as of 2006. They are either

totally cancer-free or are still receiving cancer treatment.




The Most Common Types of Cancer

The National Cancer Institute, in reference to the report furnished by the American Cancer

Society, reported that lung cancer is the most common type of cancer, with more than 222,000

new cases expected in the United States in 2010. This is followed by prostate cancer with more

than 217,000 new cases; breast cancer with over 207,000 new cases in women and almost 2,000

in men; colorectal cancer with more than 142,000 new cases; bladder cancer with more than

70,000 new cases; and melanoma with more than 68,130 new cases. The cancer type with the

least expected new incidence is leukemia with more than 43,000; this estimation includes chronic

myelogenous leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, and other types

of leukemia.

Causes

Cancer starts with the transformation of a single healthy cell into tumor cell. This process is a

result of the reaction caused by external agents and genetic factors. The external agents that can

lead to the development of cancer are classified into three; these are biological carcinogens like

certain parasites, bacteria and viruses; chemical carcinogens such as tobacco components and

asbestos; and physical carcinogens like ionizing radiation and ultraviolet. Age can also play a

major role in the development of cancer due to the accumulation of external agents in the body

combined with the body's impaired ability for self-repair.




Treatment Vs Holistic Cancer Prevention

In reference to the estimates made by the National Institutes of Health for 2010, cancer resulted

to over $264 billion in total cost, of which more than $140 billion was due to the loss of

productivity caused by premature death, more than $20 billion caused by the loss of productivity

due to illness and more than $102 billion for direct medical expenditures. The lack of health

insurance is one of the biggest barriers for people to receive effective cancer treatment. In the

United States, more than 38 percent of the whole population has no health insurance coverage.

Cancer treatment is expensive and the success of a procedure cannot be assured. In addition to

this, known cancer treatment can have adverse effects to the patient's health. The body will be

practically bombarded with high dosages of radiation and toxic drugs in order to kill cancer cells.

And during this biological warfare against continuously reproducing cancer cells, healthy cells

are also being damaged. Interestingly enough, scientists from the McGill Cancer Center asked

118 oncologists who are specialized in treating lung cancer if they will take chemotherapy in

case they develop the disease. More than 30 percents say they wouldn't.

More often said than done, prevention is better than cure. Studies show that cancer can be highly

prevented through diet modification, consumption of foods rich in cancer-fighting nutrients that

had been proven to counter the development of cancer and employing overall lifestyle

intervention. According to the World Health Organization, over 30 percent of cancer cases can be

prevented simply by avoiding risk factors like smoking, air pollutants, excessive alcohol intake,




sedentary lifestyle, obesity and being overweight, and insufficient consumption of fruits and

vegetables.

Prevention: A Better Approach in the Battle Against Cancer

The Risk Factors

Definition and Classification. Years ago, medical experts had a hard time explaining the reason

why a patient developed cancer. But years of study and investigation have led scientists to

believe that the development of cancer can be influenced by a person's innate condition like his

genetic make-up and contributing factors such as certain elements found in the environment.

Although these things don't necessarily cause cancer as a single entity or a group, studies show

that avoiding possible triggers as much as one can may result to a lowered risk of developing the

disease. The relationship between each risk factor and cancer has been investigated by different

scientific bodies from around the world. They primarily looked at the body's reaction to

substances and materials that are produced from within or outside of the body. One organization,

for example, that continuously investigates the possible causes of cancer and the methods of

effectively preventing the disease is the American Cancer Society.

Researchers and medical experts will often use the word “risk” to refer to the factors that may

lead to an increased possibility of developing cancer. The American Cancer Society classifies

cancer risk as relative risk and lifetime risk .




Relative risk refers to the measure at which a person is more at risk of developing a

certain type of cancer compared to another who does not exhibit the same risk. For

example, people who smoke are 23 percent more at risk of developing lung cancer than

non-smokers.

Lifetime risk , on the other hand, is the long-term projection of someone's risk of

developing cancer and dying due to the diseases during his lifetime. Relative risk is more

often used by cancer studies, surveys and statistics to better bring forth the positive or

negative visual regarding the dreaded disease.

For the purpose of this report, cancer risk factors will be divided into two categories: the

unavoidable and avoidable risk factors. It would be feasible to say that anyone is at risk of

developing cancer – because, really, no one is spared. But certain factors put certain people at

higher risk of developing the disease than others. These unavoidable risk factors can be

compensated by taking more preventive measures. Avoidable risk factors are relatively easier to

deal with.




Unavoidable Risk Factors

Genetics

The development of some diseases is strongly

influenced by the presence of a certain genetic

marker or defect. The same is true in the case of

cancer. The behavior and function of cells and

every part of the body is governed and

predetermined by the genes. Cancer is primarily

caused by the uncontrollable division of cells and the impairment of their natural ability to die

with age. Genetic markers and mutation can tell whether a person is highly predisposed to

developing cancer or not. Similar to other health conditions caused by genetic forms, a person

who inherits a mutated gene from one parent can become a carrier while inheriting a pair of the

mutated gene from both parents may mean a heightened risk of developing the disease. Mutation

carriers are common in the world's population with a prevalence of no less than 1 percent.

Recent developments in the endless attempt for better understanding the complex human genome

have led scientists to obtain a better idea of how a particular health condition develops. As a

benefit, medical experts in the field of cancer treatment can now find options that have the ability

to produce better results. Knowing if a person is genetically predisposed to developing cancer

through standardized methods can have a strong impact in reducing his cancer risk. But without

this information, people are left to battle the onset of the disease blindfolded.


Model of a tumor-suppressing proteinbinding to DNA



Genetic Risk Assessment

People's increased awareness of the genetic risk factor in the development of cancer has led to

the establishment of services that aims to help people identify their risk. Genetic and familiar

cancer susceptibility and genetic testing and risk assessment are being marketed directly to

consumers and communities in order to take advantage of this potentially life-saving scientific

and technological advancement. These services does not only increase the public's awareness

regarding the risk inherent in their family but it also encourages them to take the initiative and

become more proactive at consulting a medical expert regarding their risk and taking the

appropriate measures to counter the risk.

As described by the National Society of Genetic Counselors, genetic risk assessment or genetic

counseling is a process that helps people adapt and understand the psychological, medical and

familial implications of the contribution of genetic characteristics to the development of cancer.

Although not entirely limited, people are considered for cancer risk assessment if they have an

observable history of the disease with either paternal of maternal lineage, or both, and other

factors that may suggest the onset of hereditary cancer.

Accurately determining whether a person or a family is at risk of developing cancer is one of the

vital roles of health care providers. Once the risk has been correctly identified, the individual or

family can be referred to receive cancer prevention management plan. Genetic risk assessment

will not only benefit the individual being tested but it will also reveal important information

regarding the risk of his other family members. Despite the promise of cancer genetic risk




assessment, consequences like employment and insurance discrimination may arise.

Studies and Clinical Trials

A study presented that American Society of Clinical Oncology annual meeting showed

that the early onset of prostate cancer can be due to a series of genetic mutations. The

researchers from the Comprehensive Cancer Center of the University of Michigan said

that their findings suggest the use of traditional and genetic screening methods in order to

better assess and understand a person's risk of developing prostate cancer. They

investigated 14 different gene mutations found in 754 men aged 56 and younger who all

had prostate cancer. They were enrolled in the Prostate Cancer Genetics Project at the

University of Michigan together with more than 2,700 men with no prostate cancer and

over 1,600 older men with prostate cancer. They concluded that the early development of

prostate cancer is highly influenced by a genetic component. The next aim would be to

determine the common genetic mutations in a larger group of men.1

A study conducted by researchers from Japan has found 5 genetic variations which they

linked to the development of prostate cancer. The genetic variations also showed the

differences and similarities regarding the risk of Europeans and Asians in developing the

disease. The study was published in Nature Genetics and proposed the influence of

genetic background of prostate cancer of the non-European population. Asian countries

are known to have the lowest incidence of prostate cancer in the world. But in recent

years, countries in Asia are experiencing a rise in prostate cancer prevalence. The




researchers from the University of Tokyo RIKEN CGM, or the Center of Genomic

Medicine, compared certain genetic variations of Japanese men between the data

provided by a different study on European men. They found that out of the 31 genetic

variations found in European men, 19 were also linked to the development of prostate

cancer in the Japanese population.2

The Factor of Age

The relationship between cancer and aging are coming from

two opposite directions. In the case of cancer, the cells refuse

to die which results to the formation of tumors. In aging, on

the other hand, cells start to wear off and grow tired of

dividing to replace old and dead cells. But according to the

National Cancer Institute (NCI), 60 percent of new cancer

cases are found in people aged 65 and above. This same age

group composes 70 percent of all cancer deaths. Statistics from

the NCI also show that older adults are 10 times more at risk of developing cancer than those

coming from the younger age groups. They are also 15 times more at risk of dying due to cancer

than people below the age of 65.

Among the cancer types common in older adults are cancers of the breast, stomach, prostate,

bladder, lungs and pancreas. And incidentally, these cancer types have the highest prevalence and

mortality rate. Older adults tend to become more sensitive and resistive to cancer treatment than




their younger counterparts. The discrepant and non-confounding relationship between cancer risk

and aging has driven researchers to investigate factors like an increased vulnerability to

carcinogenic agents. It may also be due to the time involved in the development of cancer. Other

theories suggest that the immune system becomes impaired in effectively scanning the

environment and getting rid of malignant cells and cancer-causing agents and that the cells lose

their control over their natural ability for self-proliferation. Medical opinions vary regarding the

relationship of aging to cancer. But what is known and widely accepted is that a person becomes

more at risk of developing cancer as he grows older.

Counteracting the Risk of Aging

The indefinite relationship between cancer and aging makes it more challenging to find ways to

counter its adverse effects to a person's risk of developing the disease. But studies show that

avoiding certain habits and long-term risk management plans can actually help. Maintaining a

healthy diet, an active lifestyle and eating foods rich in nutrients that have been found to possess

anti-cancer potentials at an early age may have long-term effects in reducing a person's risk.


A study published in Breast Cancer Research online journal showed that aging can affect

the behaviors of cells which, in turn, can result to abnormalities and a higher risk of

developer cancer. The study is an addition to the growing body of research that aims to

investigate the relationship between aging and cancer risk. Despite this, the relationship




between the two has remained clinically unproven.3

A study on mice show that the long-term exposure to carcinogens resulted to higher rates

of malignancies in study subjects. The researchers applied benzpyrene, a known

carcinogen, to 950 mice on a regular basis. They observed that the appearance of

malignant epithelial tumors increased. The authors of the study concluded that the long-

term exposure to cancer stimulants with the combined factor of age results to a higher

risk of developing cancer.4

Avoidable Risk Factors

Majority of the cancer types are caused by the dysfunction of the genes that control the behavior

of cells, including proper reproduction and self-immolation. More than 5 percent of all cancer

cases are inherent of mutated genes and a person with a high genetic risk can develop more than

one type of cancer. But the majority of cancer cases are caused by factors that affect the behavior

of cells by damaging the genes. Non-inherent genetic damage may be caused by external risk

factors like smoking and exposure to sunlight, and internal risk factors like hormones and certain

metabolic abnormalities. One or a combination of these risk factors can increase the likelihood of

developing cancer. But then again, some people who have multiple risk factors may not develop

cancer in their lifetime.




Smoking

Smoking is responsible for more than 400,000 deaths each year in

the United States alone; almost 50,000 of these deaths are due to the

exposure to second-hand smoke. Lung cancer is the leading cause of

cancer-related deaths in both men and women. 90 percent of lung

cancer deaths in men and 80 percent in women are caused by

smoking. The toxins in tobacco smoke also cause other types of

cancer. This includes cancers of the bladder, cervix, kidney, pancreas, stomach, esophagus, nasal

cavity, mouth and the throat. Other than the immediate side-effects of smoking, cancer and

cardiovascular disease can develop due to prolonged use. An alarming report from the Youth Risk

Behavior Surveillance published by the National Cancer Institute showed that almost 20 percent

of students in high school are smoking cigarettes.

Tobacco use is considered to be the most preventable cause of death. A single stick of cigarette

contains hundreds of toxic substances, and at least 50 of which are found to cause cancer. The

other most potent toxins are benzene, arsenic, cadmium, radioactive heavy metals like polonium

and lead, ammonia, carbon monoxide, hydrogen and cyanide. Medical experts, health

organizations and government agencies are continuously reminding the public of the various

health threats of smoking, especially in heightening the risk of cancer.

Quitting Nicotine Addiction. There are various methods to effectively stop smoking. The

success of saying no to nicotine cravings highly depends on the person's motivation and the




method being used. Staying healthy and eliminating the increased cancer risk brought about by

smoking is sufficient motivation. Choosing an effective method, on the other hand, will take

more than just a bucket full of patience and dedication.

Avoid stressors. Certain stressful activities and circumstances intensify the urge to

smoke. So know what causes you to reach for a stick of cigarette. Stressors may come in

the form of a really cranky boss, bills piling up at the end of the month, cramming for

deadlines or the presence of your in-laws. Identifying these stressors and then employing

means to avoid them as much as possible can help you quit smoking and continue a

nicotine-free life. Also try to find other means of relieving stress like playing sports and

other physical activities. Also, you may practice the art of meditation to help you cope

with the stresses of daily life.

Physical activities will take your mind away from smoking and it can also help in further

encouraging you to maintain a healthy lifestyle. If you are not that interested with

physical activities, spending your time doing productive hobbies like quilting or reading

books will keep your mind occupied.

Find a relaxation technique that works for you. The early stages of quitting smoking can

be very stressful. Performing relaxation techniques like mindfulness meditation, yoga and

deep-breathing exercises can help you cope with the stress of fighting the urge to smoke

and other factors which, in the past, was your way of dealing with the stress.




Seek help. Talking to family members, friends and support groups can also help in

strengthening your dedication to stop smoking. Remember that the harm of smoking is

not limited to you alone, but it may also extend to the members of your family and

friends in different ways.

Replacement therapies with the use of nicotine patches, lozenges and chewing gums

had helped thousands of people quit smoking. Consult your physician for the best quit-

smoking alternatives and treatments that suits you.

Practice the art of Mind over Matter. Keep in mind the health benefits of quitting

nicotine. You get more time to do important tasks, avoid diseases and lower your risk of

developing cancer, get healthier skin and whiter teeth, breathe easier, get rid of the

repulsive smell of tobacco smoke and a lot more.


A study conducted by researchers from the Health Partners Research Foundation found

that smoking and the exposure to secondhand smoke can heighten the risk of breast

cancer in postmenopausal women. The findings of the study were published in the Health

Day News journal. Even though earlier studies regarding the link between smoking and

breast cancer found little evidence, senior clinical investigator Karen Margolis said that

their findings suggests that smoking can increase the risk of developing the disease. The

researchers found that women who smoked had 16 percent higher breast cancer risk than

non-smokers. The risk also increases relative to the number of years the women were




smoking. In addition, they also found that nonsmokers who are exposed to secondhand

smoke for no less than 10 years during childhood, more than 10 years at work and 20

years at home as adults had 32 percent higher risk.5

An international research team that gathered cancer data from different countries revealed

in Reuters Health that people who smoke are 38 percent at higher risk of developing

kidney cancer. The study was composed of 24 different studies which were conducted

since the 1960s.6

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute revealed that smoking

results to a higher risk of developing bladder cancer than non-smokers. The researchers

said that around 65 percent of bladder cancer cases in men and between 20 to 30 percent

in women are caused by smoking. They added that the risk of developing bladder cancer

increases relative to the number of years the person is smoking.7

Alcohol

There are various studies showing that the excessive consumption

of alcohol is linked to an increased risk of developing certain

types of cancer. Strong evidence has been found associating

alcohol with liver, breast, pharyngeal, laryngeal, esophageal and

mouth cancer. Though the exact reason why alcohol leads to a higher risk of developing cancer

could not be established just yet, studies suggest that it may be due to its influence in increasing

the production of certain hormones or because of its possible carcinogenic properties and the




way it is metabolized which makes cells more vulnerable to other carcinogenic materials like

tobacco. The suggested alcohol threshold is no more than 2 drinks a day with at least one

alcohol-free day in a week.


A study conducted by researchers from the University of Mississippi Medical Center

revealed the relationship of cancer risk and alcohol consumption. The researchers found

that alcohol can stimulate the growth of tumors by fueling the production of a specific

growth factor that promotes the development of blood vessels in tumors. They used egg

embryos to observe the effects of alcohol in the formation of blood vessels in tumors.

Their findings support the theory that alcoholic beverage can promote the development

and faster progression of cancer.8

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology revealed that the consumption of

alcohol can result to a higher likelihood of a recurrence in women who previously had

breast cancer. Lead author of the study, Marilyn Kwan, PhD from Kaiser Permanente in

California said that medical experts need to advice their patients with breast cancer to

limit their alcohol consumption. She added that drinking moderate to heavy amounts of

alcoholic beverages can also increase the risk of mortality due to breast cancer.9




The other risk factors that contribute to the development of cancer are:

ionizing radiation like x-rays, radon gas and radioactive fallout

exposure to certain chemicals like benzene, benzidine, nickel, cadmium, vinyl chloride

and asbestos which are abundant in certain workplaces

bacteria and viruses like hepatitis A and C viruses which causes damage to the liver

exposure to UV rays and too much sunlight

the lack of proper nutrition and exercise. A person's diet plays an important role in the

prevention and development of cancer. Certain foods have been found by various studies

to contain compounds and nutrients that lower the risk of developing cancer.

Cancer Fighting Foods

Foods Rich in Folate

Studies show that the insufficient amount of folate in one’s diet can make the genes governing

the behavior of cells more vulnerable to mutations. Eating foods rich in folate, on the other hand,

will improve the genes’ defense against elements that can cause mutation and damage.





Researchers from Europe had found that the regular intake of foods rich folate is

associated with a lower risk of

developing pharyngeal cancer. They

added that diet accounts to 10 to 15

percent of all cancer cases in Europe.

The lack of folate in the diet has been

strongly associated with the

development of various types of cancer.

But it has not been investigated

whether the same effect is possible with

oral cancer. The researchers gathered a

group of 759 study participants suffering from cancer of the pharynx and the oral cavity.

They also obtained relevant data from a control group of more than 1700 hospital

patients. The study participants were asked to answer a questionnaire regarding their diet.

The study found that the intake of folate significantly inhibited pharyngeal carcinogenesis

and lowered the risk of developing pharyngeal cancer from intermediate intake of the

nutrient.10

A study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition observed that the highest

intake of folate in the diet can reduce a woman's risk in developing colorectal cancer by

around 50 percent. Researchers from Korea analyzed data obtained from more than 590

men and women suffering from colorectal cancer and compared this to the data gathered




from over 500 people free from colorectal cancer. The participants were between 30 to 79

years old. The researchers said that they had found a statistically important link between

higher dietary intake of folate and a lower risk of developing colorectal cancer. But the

researchers found that the trend was not notable in male study participants.11

Natural Food Sources

The richest natural sources of folate are lentils, beets, cauliflower, broccoli, collard greens,

parsley, calf's liver, mustard greens, turnip greens, asparagus, spinach and romaine lettuce.

Other Health Benefits of Folate

Folate has also been found to help in preventing dementia, Alzheimer's disease, osteoporosis and

osteoporosis-related bone fractures. It is also known to promote proper nerve function, and it

supports the production of red blood cells and lowers the risk of anemia.

Foods Rich in Vitamin D

Getting a little sunshine or drinking a few glasses of milk fortified with vitamin D has been

found to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.


A study funded by the Cancer Research Campaign has found that the high intake of




vitamin D can lower people's risk of developing cancer. The researchers found that

vitamin D inhibits the growth of malignant tumors. But they said that the amount of

vitamin D to prevent cancer is too high that continuing on such high dosage can result to

osteoporosis and even death. They were able to find a better form of vitamin D that does

not result to undesirable effects by testing four variations in mice. The researchers

concluded that if their trial consistently produce positive results, the vitamin D

supplement can be given to individuals with high risk of developing cancer.12

Epidemiologist and one of the world experts in cancer environmental risk factors, Dr

Louise Parker, said that the intake of 1000 units of vitamin D in a day can help in

reducing the risk of developing cancer. But Parker added that 1000 units of vitamin D is

impossible to get from diet since it is a rare vitamin and only appears in limited food

sources in small amounts. She also said that people with colon and lung cancer are

deficient in vitamin D. But further studies are needed before vitamin D can be used as a

medication for cancer prevention.13

Natural Food Sources

Exposure to sunlight for a few minutes in a day can stimulate the production of vitamin D in the

skin. The other rich sources of vitamin D are eggs, cod, shrimp, sardines and salmon.




Other Health Benefits

Vitamin D also helps in the absorption of calcium in the bones; prevent muscle weakness,

chronic fatigue and inflammation; regulate blood pressure, insulin activity and immune system

responses; and improve the metabolism of phosphorus.

Green Tea

Green Tea is the most popular tea variety. Botanists and historians believe that green tea

originated in China and around Asia before reaching other parts of the world. Numerous studies

show that green tea contains strong antioxidants that help in scavenging cancer-causing free

radicals thereby helping reduce the risk of developing cancer.

The health effects of green tea are attributed mainly to its active components. Green tea contains

significant amounts of polyphenols and catechins, very popular for their ability to neutralize

harmful substances that creates damage through oxidation.


A study conducted by researchers from Newcastle University found that the regular

consumption of green tea protects the body from damage that leads to the development of

certain diseases including cancer. The researchers’ findings were published in the journal




Phytomedicine. They said that in addition to the known health benefits of green tea, the

compounds in the popular Chinese beverage had the ability to inhibit the growth of tumor

cells. They added that the consumption of green tea together with maintaining a healthy

lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of developing cancer.14

A review of different studies on green tea published in The American Journal of Clinical

Nutrition showed that the polyphenols in green tea can prevent the development of cancer

and help in improving overall health. The study showed that the polyphenol content of

green tea exhibited protective properties against skin, colon, breast, liver, pancreas,

duodenum, esophagus, stomach and lung cancer in mice and other study animals.15

A study published in Cancer Research and conducted by a team of British and Spanish

researchers found that the catechin in green tea inhibits the production of an enzyme

called dihydrofolate reductase. This enzyme is normally needed by cancer cells in order

to grow. Pharmaceutical cancer drugs have the same effect but researchers observed that

the side effects of catechins are less severe since they don't bind as tightly to healthy

cells.16


The regular consumption of green tea is also being associated to a lower risk of developing

cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and atherosclerosis, reduce the levels of

triglycerides in the blood and prevent blood clotting.




Cruciferous Vegetables

Vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage and kale are some of the

most important vegetables to include in one’s diet. These vegetables had been found by various

studies to contain compounds that can potentially treat and lower the risk of developing cancer.

The active components of cruciferous vegetables are sulforaphane, flavonoids, phytochemicals,

vitamin D, vitamin B complex, and manganese.


A study conducted by researchers from

the Netherlands found that Brussels

sprouts, a popular cruciferous

vegetable, can protect the body from

cancer by promoting proper DNA

function. Majority of the types of

cancer are linked to a mutation in the genes responsible for controlling the behavior of

cells. When a mutation in the gene occurs, the cells will begin to proliferate and act

irregularly, causing the formation of tumors. The researchers found that the

phytochemicals that are found in Brussels sprouts and other cruciferous vegetables can

protect the genes from the carcinogenic compound heterocyclic amines which are

commonly present in charbroiled and grilled meat. Study animals fed with Brussels




sprouts had a 27 to 69 percent reduction of pre-cancer cells in the liver and 41 to 52

percent in the colon.17

A team of researchers from the University of California found that a compound in

cruciferous vegetables like cabbage and broccoli can inhibit the activity of an enzyme

which has been found to induce the rapid advancement of breast cancer. The compound is

called indole-3-carbinol, or I3C, that carries a chemoprotective compound

diindolymethane or DIM. Scientists from the Hackensack University Medical Center,

New Jersey found that I3C can rapidly transform into DIM and regulate the production of

hormones and the behavior of cells. A related study of DIM published in the 2008 issue

of the Biochemical Pharmacology Journal revealed that the compound has the ability to

hinder the flow of blood in tumors; tumors need blood in order to grow and survive.18

A study published in the journal Carcinogenesis revealed that the isothiocyanates in

broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables helps to reduce the risk of developing cancer by

possibly activating genes that fight cancer and deactivate those that promotes the growth

of tumors. Amongst other cruciferous vegetables, broccoli has the highest isothiocyanate

content.19


Cruciferous vegetables have the ability to reduce inflammation and counter oxidative stress, and

lower the risk of disease caused by these activities. They also help in promoting cardiovascular

and digestive health.




Tomatoes

These well-known fruit, although oftentimes mistaken for a vegetable, had been subjected to

countless studies that aim to determine and gather evidence regarding its potential cancer-

fighting properties. Tomatoes highly contain phytochemicals such as lycopene, carotenoids,

vitamin C, vitamin A, Vitamin K, potassium and manganese.


Researches from Israel found that the lycopene derived from tomatoes can lower the risk

of developing cancer by activating the production of enzymes that inhibit the

development of cancer. The researchers incubated liver and breast cancer cells with

lycopene and observed that the phytochemical stimulated the release of detoxifying

enzymes that helps in removing carcinogenic materials from the body. They also tested

other carotenoids and found that lycopene produced the best results; a few of the tested

carotenoids failed to produce similar effects. The researchers suggested that lycopene's

ability to stimulate the production of detoxification enzymes was not solely due to its

antioxidant property.20

A study published in the Breast Cancer Research and Treatment showed that lycopene

from tomatoes and other carotenoids can inhibit the activities of estrogen that may result

to the development of cancer. The large-scale population study investigated the roles of

different carotenoids from natural sources in the prevention of cancer and looked at how

these carotenoids influenced the activity of estrogen which has been long regarded as one




of the hormonal causes of the disease. The researchers concluded that lycopene and other

carotenoids can prevent the adverse effects of estrogen and reduce the risk of developing

hormone-dependent malignancies.21

Scientists from the UK developed a genetically modified purple tomato and proposed that

the new product may help fight cancer. The purple tomato is rich in an antioxidant called

anthocyanins which are also found in berries. Previous studies had found that

anthocyanins have great potential in preventing cancer due to its ability to protect the

cells from oxidative damage.22 Despite this seemingly positive finding, it is important to

stick to organic products. Genetically modified food products may prove detrimental to a

person’s health because of its side and adverse effects.


Studies also show that tomato helps in promoting colon, pancreatic and prostate health and in

reducing the risk of developing diseases of the colon, pancreas and prostate.

Berries

Berries are full of nutritious compounds that help in promoting better health and in preventing

life-threatening and life-altering diseases including cancer. The most common types of berries

are strawberry, raspberry, cranberry, blueberry and blackberry. Berries contain anthocyanins,

ellagic acid, flavonoid kaempferol, vitamin C, manganese and vitamin E.





A collection of studies published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry

showed that the phenolic compound content of blueberries can inhibit the growth and

proliferation of colon cancer cells. The researchers also observed that the compound

induced apoptosis, or cell death. The extracts used in the study contained blueberry

phenols which separated into flavanols, tannins, anthocyanins and phenolic acids. The

researchers concluded that eating blueberries can reduce the risk of developing colon

cancer.23

A study conducted by researchers from the UCLA Center for Human Nutrition found that

strawberries can have the strongest anti-cancer properties amongst other varieties of

berries. The researchers tested the extracts from blueberries, cranberries, blackberries,

black raspberries, raspberries and strawberries and observed their ability to influence

apoptosis in cancer cells. Their findings showed that the phenolic compounds in berries

can induce voluntary cell death, but those that are found in strawberry exhibits the

strongest potency.24


Berries had also been found to reduce the risk of macular degeneration, Alzheimer's disease and

other forms of dementia, and promote gastrointestinal, colon and ovarian health.




Lifestyle Intervention

Majority of cancer cases are caused by

avoidable factors like the person's diet and

overall lifestyle. Studies had shown that lifestyle

intervention can be the most effective means of

reducing a person's risk of developing cancer.

Maintain a healthy body weight

The first step is to balance your calorie intake with your physical activities and maintain a

healthy weight throughout your lifetime. People who weigh more than they should are found to

be more at risk of developing cancer than people with normal body mass index. This can be

achieved by limiting your calorie intake to your body's calorie requirement and by adopting an

active lifestyle.

Stay Active

Lifestyle intervention aims to permanently change your habits for the better. Adults are

recommended to exercise and participate in physical activities for at least 30 minutes a day in

most days of the week. Try to find an activity that fits your lifestyle – go to the gym or walk

around the park. The point is to stay active and to keep your body moving.

Maintain a healthy diet

Make sure to consume sufficient servings of fruits and vegetables everyday while avoiding foods

rich in trans fats, preservatives, artificial food colorings, refined sugar and carcinogens.




Stay away from bad habits

Smoking and excessive drinking has been linked to a heightened risk of developing cancer.

Cancer specialists and medical experts also say that tobacco and liquor are two of the most

avoidable risk factors.

Early Diagnosis

The success of any cancer treatment highly relies on the stage the cancer was discovered.

Undergoing cancer screenings and talking to your family doctor about the early symptoms of

cancer will help in diagnosing cancer at the earliest stage.

Lastly, always choose the safer, effective, and more natural route towards optimal health.

Here’s to a longer and healthy life to all of us!

Frank Mangano




About Frank Mangano:

Frank Mangano is a bestselling author, researcher, health advocate and entrepreneur in

the field of alternative health. Mangano is the author of several books including The 60

Day Prescription Free Cholesterol Cure, The Mind Killer Defense, which he co-authored

with Dr. Cynthia Foster, M.D. and Kim Wierman, and The Blood Pressure Miracle , which

continues to be an Amazon.com bestselling book. Additionally, he has published

numerous reports and a considerable amount of articles pertaining to natural health.




References:

The National Cancer Institute

http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/commoncancers

The Anti Cancer Diet, Helpguide.orghttp://www.helpguide.org/life/healthy_diet_cancer_prevention.htm

Antioxidants and Cancer Prevention Fact Sheet, The National Cancer Institutehttp://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/prevention/antioxidants

Cancer Trends Progress Report, Age at Smoking Initiation, The National Cancer Institutehttp://progressreport.cancer.gov/doc_detail.asp?pid=1&did=2009&chid=91&coid=903&mid=

Cancer Health Center: Top Cancer-Fighting Foods, WebMD.comhttp://www.webmd.com/cancer/features/top-cancer-fighting-foods

Lifestyle Interventions to Reduce Cancer Risk and Improve Outcomes, American FamilyPhysicianhttp://www.aafp.org/afp/2008/0601/p1573.html

Cancer Risk Factors, New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Serviceshttp://www.state.nj.us/health/cancer/cariskfactorsfsfinal02.htm

Cancer Risk Factors, Medicine.nethttp://www.medicinenet.com/cancer_causes/article.htm

Encourage Diet and Lifestyle Interventions in Low-Risk Prostate Cancer, Medscape Medical Newshttp://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/562644

Cancer Media Center, World health Organizationhttp://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs297/en/index.html

Cancer Genetics Overview, The National Cancer Institutehttp://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/genetics/overview/healthprofessional

Free Help to Quit Smoking, The National Cancer Institute




http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/tobacco/smoking

Quitting smoking: 10 ways to ride out tobacco cravings, Mayo Clinichttp://www.mayoclinic.com/health/nicotine-craving/SK00057

Alcohol and Cancer A guide for health professionals, Cancer Council of New South Waleshttp://www.cancercouncil.com.au/editorial.asp?pageid=1775

Alcohol and Cancer, National Cancer Societyhttp://www.cancer.org/acs/groups/content/@healthpromotions/documents/document/acsq-017622.pdf

To 10 Cancer Fighting Foods, The Diet Channelhttp://www.thedietchannel.com/Cancer-Prevention-Top-10-Cancer-Fighting-Foods.htm

The World's Healthiest Foods, WHFoods

http://whfoods.org/


1 Five New Genetic Variations Linked to Prostate Cancer Uncovered in Study on Japanese Men,Science Dailyhttp://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/08/100802080151.htm

2 The Age of Cancer, USC Health Magazinehttp://www.usc.edu/hsc/info/pr/hmm/05fall/cancer.html

3 Aging impacts transcriptomes but not genomes of hormone-dependent breast cancers, BreastCancer Researchhttp://breast-cancer-research.com/content/9/5/R59

4 Individual Aging and Cancer Risk: HowAre They Related, DEMOGRAPHIC RESEARCHhttp://www.demographic-research.org

5 Study Finds Smoking Linked to Breast Cancer Risk, Medline Plushttp://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_109375.html

6 Smoking and kidney cancer risk, VHL Family Alliancehttp://www.vhl.org/newsletter/vhl2005/05ahsmok.php




7 A Case–Control Study of Smoking and Bladder Cancer Risk: Emergent Patterns Over Time,Medscape Todayhttp://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/715685

8 Study Provides Clues To Alcohol's Cancer Connection, Science Dailyhttp://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2004/12/041220023731.htm

9 Alcohol May Increase Risk for Breast Cancer Recurrence, Medscapehttp://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/727885

10 Folate intake and risk of oral and pharyngeal cancer, Annals of Oncologyhttp://annonc.oxfordjournals.org/content/14/11/1677.full

11 Folate linked to lower colorectal cancer risk: Study, Nutra Ingredients

http://www.nutraingredients.com/Research/Folate-linked-to-lower-colorectal-cancer-risk-Study12 Vitamin protects against cancer, BBC Newshttp://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/891302.stm

13 A Ray Of Sunshine In The Fight Against Cancer: Vitamin D May Help, Science Newshttp://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/02/080206210402.htm

14 Protective Properties of Green Tea Uncovered, Science Newshttp://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/01/110105194844.htm

15 Tea polyphenols: prevention of cancer and optimizing health, The American Journal of Clinical Nutritionhttp://www.ajcn.org/content/71/6/1698S.full

16 Green Tea, WHFoodshttp://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=146#nutritionalprofile

17 Brussels Sprouts Defend against All Types of Cancer, Natural Newshttp://www.naturalnews.com/025297_cancer_sprouts_body.htm

18 Supplements of DIM Stop Many Cancers in Their Tracks, Natural Newshttp://www.naturalnews.com/025810_cancer_estrogen_cancers.html

19 Cruciferous Vegetables Proven to Prevent Breast Cancer, Natural Newshttp://www.naturalnews.com/025441_vegetables_cancer_cruciferous.html

20 Lycopene mechanism against cancer, new findings, Nutra Ingredients




http://www.nutraingredients.com/Research/Lycopene-mechanism-against-cancer-new-findings

21 Lycopene and other carotenoids inhibit estrogenic activity of 17β-estradiol and genistein incancer cells, Food for Breast Cancer http://foodforbreastcancer.com/foods/tomatoes?expandStudies=true#studies

22 Purple tomatoes the latest in the arsenal against cancer, The Medical Newshttp://www.news-medical.net/news/2008/10/27/42170.aspx

23 Fresh Raspberries Join the Fight Against Cancer, Longevity Medicinehttp://www.longevitymedicine.tv/fresh-raspberries-join-the-fight-against-cancer/

24 Strawberries Most Effective In Fighting Against Cancer Cells, News Commhttp://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050809/SFTU126

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