Malignant Melanomas

ScienceDaily is a great site for Melanoma Information!

2008-04-18T15:15:00.003-04:00

I just found this site and thought I'd share one of the articles I saw listed. They have many interesting articles and information on new and break through research. Check it out! Dana Farber is one of the best cancer research institutes around!

First Targeted Therapy To Produce Remission Of Metastatic Melanoma
ScienceDaily (Apr. 17, 2008) — In a demonstration that even some of the most hard-to-treat tumors may one day succumb to therapies aimed at molecular "weak points," researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute report the first instance in which metastatic melanoma has been driven into remission by a targeted therapy.

The report, published in the April 20 issue of the Journal of Clinical Oncology, describes the case of a 79-year-old woman with melanoma tumors in several parts of her abdomen. When lab tests showed the tumor cells carried an abnormality in a gene called KIT, the patient enrolled in a clinical trial involving Gleevec (R) (Imatinib), a drug known to target that gene.

Four weeks after beginning therapy, imaging exams showed a dramatic reduction in tumor size and metabolism: two of the tumor masses had disappeared and several others had shrunken considerably. Four months later, the tumors were still in check, and today, nine months after the start of therapy, she continues to take the drug and her condition remains stable.

"This is the first proof of principle that we can find an Achilles' heel in melanoma" -- a gene critical to tumor cell growth and proliferation -- "and, by targeting that gene with a drug, cause the cell to die," says the study's lead author, Stephen Hodi, MD, of Dana-Farber. "It is especially exciting because there haven't been any effective treatments for melanoma patients with metastatic disease."

Although the report involves just one patient, it should inject new confidence in the fight against melanoma, Hodi says. Because previous research has failed to find any genetic Achilles' heels capable of shutting down melanoma cell growth, some researchers had speculated that none may exist for such cells. The discovery of one suggests there may be others.

KIT mutations are found in only a small percentage of melanomas, so Imatinib does not represent a universal treatment for the disease, Hodi explains. Recent studies have found KIT mutations in 11 percent of acral melanomas (which arise in skin without hair follicles, such as that of the palms, foot soles, and nail beds, and account for 5 percent of all melanomas), 21 percent of mucosal melanomas (which arise in the mucous membranes of some organs), and 17 percent of melanomas arising in chronically sun-damaged skin. For patients with these conditions, particularly those who carry a mutation in a particular section of the gene, Imatinib may well prove beneficial.

Imatinib's effectiveness against tumors with KIT mutations was first demonstrated in gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), a relatively rare malignancy of the digestive tract. An estimated 75-80 percent of GISTs have KIT mutations, and Imatinib has caused such tumors to stabilize or retreat in 75-90 percent of patients receiving it. In most of these patients, however, tumors eventually begin growing again as they become resistant to the drug.

The KIT mutation in the patient described in the study involved a protein-coding section of the gene where DNA was duplicated. This section, known as the "juxtamembrane domain," is the most frequent site of mutation in GIST, and is associated with a strong tumor response to Imatinib.

"Dramatic remissions in metastatic melanoma are something that, as physicians, we've rarely seen," Hodi remarks. "Confirming these results will require enrolling additional patients in clinical trials -- something we're actively working to accomplish."

The senior author of the study is David E. Fisher, MD, PhD, who participated in the research as a Dana-Farber faculty member and is now at Massachusetts General Hospital. Other co-authors include Philip Friedlander, MD, PhD, Annick D. Van den Abbeele, MD, George Demetri, MD, Suzanne Mac Rae, MPH, Andrea Kruse, and Jyothi Jagannathan, MD, of Dana-Farber; Christopher Corless, MD, PhD, and Michael Heinrich, MD, of Oregon Health & Science University; and Elsa Velazquez, MD, of Brigham and Women's Hospital.

Funding for the research was provided in part by the Ron Gelb Melanoma Research Fund at Dana-Farber.

Adapted from materials provided by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, via EurekAlert!, a service of AAAS.

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Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (2008, April 17). First Targeted Therapy To Produce Remission Of Metastatic Melanoma. ScienceDaily. Retrieved April 18, 2008, from http://www.sciencedaily.com? /releases/2008/04/080417211534.htm

Melanoma and Politics

2008-03-30T10:30:00.004-04:00

I found this article very interesting and felt I needed to share it....

John McCain’s Melanoma in Perspective
Bill Jempty | Tuesday, March 11, 2008

Senator John McCain, the presumptive Republican nominee for President, and I have a similar medical history. In a recent NY Times article, Lawrence K. Altman, M.D reported, “Mr. McCain has had four (malignant) melanomas.”

Until 2007 I was tied with the Senator. I had four of these deadly skin cancers diagnosed in 1993-94. A fifth was located on me and biopsied in 2007.

Around 150,000 a year world-wide are diagnosed with melanoma. A little under 50,000 die of the disease every year. It is the most common cancer for women under the age of 30, second most common for women age 34 and under.

Multiple melanoma survivors aren’t that common. I’ve been an active participant in MM support groups for 12 years. I can count the people I know who have had more than one of these skin cancers diagnosed. Senator McCain is the only one I know to have a total equal to mine.

In 1993, he waited more than six months before seeking care after a Navy doctor recommended that he consult a dermatologist for a lesion on his left shoulder that turned out to be his first melanoma. It was excised and has not recurred.

Pathology tests showed that the two other melanomas — detected on his upper left arm in 2000 and on his nose in 2002 — were of the least dangerous kind, in situ. In that type the malignant cells are confined to the outer layer of skin.

The most serious melanoma was spotted on his temple in 2000 by the attending physician at the United States Capitol after it had escaped the eye of Mr. McCain’s personal physician at Mayo Clinic Scottsdale. (The Capitol physician also spotted another melanoma that was in situ.)
The melanoma on Mr. McCain’s left temple was 2 centimeters in diameter and 0.22 centimeters deep, and was fully excised with wide margins, 2 centimeters in each direction, his campaign staff said.

Two of the melanomas were in situ, which are very superficial and almost never a threat after their removal. (Wikipedia says 100% survival rate. I wouldn’t go out on that limb)

Dr. Altman’s article is most concerned with the 2000 melanoma. At 0.22 depth, it is a Clark Level II. Clark Levels are used for the degree of invasion of the MM into the patient’s skin. So far as Clarks go, .22 only penetrates into the second layer of skin. Of my five melanoma, three were .26 or less. What are the survival rates for this type of melanoma?

For patients with a melanoma like Mr. McCain’s who remained free of the disease for the first five years after diagnosis, the probability of recurrence during the next five years was 14 percent and death 9 percent, a study published in 1992 found.

The melanoma is almost eight years old. In 2000 Sen. McCain had surgery to have lymph nodes removed(This resulted in noticeable puffiness and scarring on his face still seen today), they tested negative.

Any oncologist will tell you, that a MM patient is never totally free or safe from having the disease come back. The statistics in the Senator’s case are strongly in his favor.

A member of Congress, New Mexico Rep. Steven Schiff, died of melanoma in 1998.

Since the above article came from the NY Times, some have considered this another ‘hit piece’ on the Senator. Ed Morissey:

Altman then launches into an indirect criticism of McCain for not releasing his medical records yet in this campaign. He released those records early in his previous campaign, but as Altman notes, that was because they were part of a public study on the health of former POWs. Altman fails to mention that no other candidate in this race has released medical records.

The criticism isn’t indirect. The article ends saying- “Mr. McCain is occasionally asked on the campaign trail about his age. But he is almost never asked about his health.”

Professor Bainbridge writes,

The Times has taken the gloves off and is digging deep for mud to sling. Ironically, of course, McCain bashing by the Times at this point redounds to the Senator’s benefit. Lots of conservatives worried that McCain was too cozy with the liberal media. The Times is solving that problem for McCain. The people in the base who need to come around loathe the Times for its pretensions and biases. It’s the old “enemy of my enemy” story.

Even so, it’s damn shoddy journalism.

I’ve known about Sen. McCain’s melanoma history, it isn’t common knowledge to the American public. I can recall next to no mention of it in this Presidential cycle. The Times article may have been overdue. Bringing the facts out to the public about a possible future President’s health and cancer history doesn’t seem like a hit piece to me but in depth reporting instead

Thank you for reading my Blog!

2007-09-05T22:24:00.000-04:00

Each day that I cannot find time to find something else to add to my Blog about Melanoma, I feel such guilt! I see the number of people visiting my site daily and I appreciate each and every one of you for trying to learn what you can to help stop this very PREVENTABLE disease.

We all have our daily struggles, yet there are some arenas which we need to keep the "good fight" going. Melanoma is one of those arenas. There are many diseases which when they strike we have a limited amount of power over to help prevent or cure. Melanoma, which is the most aggressive and deadliest of all skin cancers, does not fall among that group. It is a very preventable disease. However it must be caught early enough, and if proper precautions are taken at appropriate times, it will never become a threat.

The proper use of protection against sun rays, and UV rays from tanning booths is KEY! Sun lotion MUST be used daily, and tanning beds ARE NOT YOUR FRIEND!

Use sunscreen with a minimum SPF factor of at least 15 daily, even in the winter. Check your moles for the A,B,C,D and E's. Buy a really "chic" wide brimmed hat and wear it proudly! Then as Mr. Spock, from the Star Trek series says; you will "Live long and prosper". This is my wish you, to be able to live long and fight Melanoma while you do so! :) Enjoy the rest of the summer!

Melanoma: Gene Signature Spells Poor Outcome

2007-09-03T19:58:00.000-04:00

Sorry I have not been more vigilant in my postings,I have too many projects including school in the wings. I promise to pay more attention to fighting Melanomas! One would think by now science would have an answer to all our questions and problems regarding Melanomas, but alas they do not. Please refer to this recently published article regarding melanomas. Don't forget to use the sunscreen lotion ans wear your wide brimmed hate s proudly! Check out this article: Melanoma Gene Signature Spells Poor Outcome.

Melanoma Diagnosis Often Delayed for Rural Poor

2007-08-22T22:31:00.000-04:00

Do not let your economic status affect your care for
Melanoma treatment. Please refer to this article for more information,
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/08/22/AR2007082201251.html

"Stay out of the sun, and put the protectives on."

2007-08-22T22:23:00.000-04:00

Another recent article on skin cancer, click here to link:http://www.wjhg.com/news/headlines/9318502.html

I have joined the SunSavvy Geek Club!

2007-08-17T22:30:00.000-04:00

Where is Danielle when you need her? I too have now gone over the edge and joined the SunSavvy Geek Club!

Two of my sisters from Chicago and three nieces came to visit. They have not been here for a few years and have a very nice RV. They stayed at a camp resort in Falmouth, Ma. not too far from my home. The camp resort had a couple of nice pools and a pond. Another sister who lives locally with 2 of her children and I planned to visit them at the campsite. We had planned to visit with them and stay for a cookout. (a cookout is the East Coast word for Bar-Ba-Que)

I spent the early afternoon watching them all swim and play in the pool, and after a few moments I realized...I did not see either of my sister 's apply ANY lotion to any of the kids! Five children under the age of 16 (my three nieces from out of state and two others from here) were jumping in an out of the pool and NONE had any sunscreen.

My first response was "Do you want to end up with cancer like your Uncle Kevin?". They looked at me like I had two heads. "Where is the sunscreen?". At this point I really didn't care if it was one of the best protecting or not, as something was better than nothing. I got there about 3 pm and had them apply sunscreen, however they had been in the pool for some time before I arrived. Clearly sun protection was not forefront on their minds. Later at dinner I explained how important it is to protect the skin you are in. I thought I had made my point.

Clearly I failed...as today we went to a beach, again around 3 pm, and again all 5 children are out running on the beach, looking for shells, and NO ONE had applied sunscreen. One of my sisters from Chicago; the mother of the three girls is very fair, burns like crazy and has a thousand moles, PLUS she is blue eyed! I ask her ..."do you use sun lotion on a regular basis?" Her response was .."sometimes". SOMETIMES!!!! I then went on a SunSavvy tirade!

What will it take to change a culture to realize the sun is the enemy of our largest organ..... our skin!!! I did not know when I was growing up the dangers of over exposure to the sun. I knew the dangers of smoking cigarettes, but the sun was my friend at that time. We know better now, the sun is the "smoking gun" cigarettes used to be in the 70's. We know better now, but how do we change the culture! Tans and sunning bred fertile feeding grounds for Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer!

We need to help young people realize that NOT tanning is "IN". Not tanning will keep your good looks and have less wrinkles longer into life. We need to find a way to encourage these actions! Maybe we need to start a campaign...."Invest in your future, spend more now on sunscreen, less for plastic surgery in the future". Pale is in, tanning it out. What ever the answer is we need to stop letting young people succumb to this deadly disease so easily and without a fight. Fight back now, use sunscreen and protect the skin you are in!!!

ABC's NewsWatch 20/20 SPF Myths

2007-08-16T12:30:00.000-04:00

This is a very informative video which discusses the truths and myths associated with SPF, sun protection factors, which sunscreens offer the best protection and why. It is definitely worth checking out. Click here to watch video.

If you were told you had Melanoma would you know where to begin?

2007-08-15T23:18:00.001-04:00

If you were told today you had Melanoma would you know what to do next, where to go, what doctors to see or how to get a second opinion? I have made many posts sharing some stories, or providing protection tips. I would now like to help point you in the right direction to obtain the best team of doctors you can to fight this deadly disease. Yes, it takes a team, and you are part of the team when you become diagnosed with Melanoma. The best teams include a surgeon, a medical oncologist, a dermatologist, a plastic surgeon and a radiation oncologist and you, the educated patient. In early stages you may only need the first three I have listed (plus yourself of course! ). The more advanced the stage of Melanoma, the bigger the team usually gets.

All team members help make the best decisions for the treatment, and a well armed team member is an educated team member. When my husband was told he had melanoma he turned to me and asked.."what next". Being a registered nurse I knew where we needed to go and how to get the information. If you are comfortable with you doctor you may not need or want a second opinion, but that is always a first option.

The next step is generally to find a good cancer center. The benefit of a cancer center is they frequently have several specialists who work as a "team". If you do not know of a cancer center you can call The Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER. They can direct you to a nearby cancer center.

Another option is to contact a nearby hospital, preferably a medical school and ask for a list of names of specialists.

After being provided with names, go to the Official ABMS Directory of Board Certified Medical Specialists. This directory lists the doctors names, along with their speciality and educational background. Board certified doctors have more training and education in their speciality and have passed an examination given by their speciality board. You can locate this directory in most public libraries. The American Board of Medical Specialities (ABMS) also offers information via the telephone an Internet. The toll free number is 1-866-ASK-ABMS. Their Internet address is: http://www.abms.org/

Facing skin cancer Salisbury student warns others to protect against dangerous UV rays

2007-08-12T16:32:00.000-04:00

Many teens think they are invulnerable to all harm. It is a common misconception which has existed through the ages. . I thought the same when I was a teen. "That will never happen to me because...." That was how I thought and I can be fairly certain it is how most teens still think. What follows the words "because" varies; "because I'm careful", because I'm smarter", "because I've practiced", "because I'm different", because I'm special". Well the truth be known, you are no different than any one else and that is exactly what leaves you so vulnerable to Melanoma. Melanoma strikes anyone, of any age, creed, color and teenagers too. Yes teenagers with Melanoma is also on the rise. Pressures to always look good; image is so important to teens, sending many to tanning salons. Even if they do not go to tanning salons, many teens remain outdoors for long periods of time and do not follow proper skin protection. They tend to bare as much as possible without taking proper precautions, applying and reapplying a good sun lotion.

How do you think Dana Lowe, age 15 felt when she found out she had Melanoma; the deadliest form of skin cancer? An advid softball player spending many hours out doors practicing, and I'll wager she did not regularly apply sun lotion prior to all practices and games. Read her story, and find out how she has adjusted her lifestyle to stay safe, yet continue doing what she loves to do. Click here:http://www.delmarvanow.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070812/LIFESTYLE/708120324/1024

(Pictured above is Dana and her mother Donna Lowe)

Share Your Survival Story-Help Fight Skin Cancer!

2007-08-10T21:39:00.000-04:00

I have previously referred to an article written by Danielle M. White, co-founder of The Cancer Crusaders Organization. She is also the author of the book ONLY SKIN DEEP? An Essential Guide to Effective Skin Cancer Programs and Resources. This ambitious 28 year old women is now working on her second book, looking for stories to be included in a special edition of her book to be released next year. Danielle also has a very informative blog which you can check out. I have added her blog to "My Favorite Blogs" listing. Visit her blog site!

If you have a story you would like to share please read this press release for the details.

Only Skin Deep? Cancer Crusaders Seeking Stories of Hope, Survival and Inspiration
Melanoma survivors and their families are encouraged to share their stories for new book on skin cancer prevention education.
Provo, Utah (PRWEB) August 10, 2007 -- As temperatures continue to rise, so does the incidence of melanoma--across the globe. In fact, another American is succumbs to melanoma every hour according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Yet, The Cancer Crusaders Organization wants to reassure people that there is hope. Hence, the organization is asking melanoma survivors and their families to share their stories for a new book on skin cancer prevention education.
"Skin cancer incidence in the U.S., and across the globe, continues to rise at an alarming rate," says Danielle M. White, co-founder of The Cancer Crusaders Organization. "In fact, melanoma is killing more women ages 20-39 than any other cancer. Yet, this disease is very preventable! Prevention brings message of hope, and we want to emphasize to people, especially young adults, that while melanoma is a serious [disease] that is one the rise, it is extremely preventable--if we are proactive," White says.
The 28-year-old White, who is also the author of the book ONLY SKIN DEEP? An Essential Guide to Effective Skin Cancer Programs and Resources says that her award-winning organization is collecting stories from melanoma survivors and family members touched by melanoma to include in a special edition of her book is set to release sometime next year.
"We want to include a section in the book that features a variety of stories from individuals touched by melanoma in this next edition," White says. "In doing this, we hope to put face to this often misunderstood disease, and inspire people to be more proactive about prevention [and] to pay tribute to melanoma warriors and their legacy."

For the complete story follow this link: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2007/8/prweb545813.htm

Did You Check Your Toes Today?

2007-08-08T19:28:00.000-04:00

Who would have ever thought to check ones feet for evidence of skin cancer? But it seems it is very true. This simple but important health tip could save your life! Read the entire article I have copied below:

Feet are an important way to find skin cancer early
Miscellaneous News
Published: Wednesday, 8-Aug-2007

The next time you clip your toenails, take a closer look at the rest of your feet. An extra 60 seconds could save your life.
Foot and ankle surgeons say routine self examinations of the feet are an important way to find skin cancer early, when it's easiest to cure. Half of the people who learn they have melanoma of the foot die within five years because the cancer had already spread throughout their body by the time it was diagnosed.
Nearly 60,000 people will learn they have melanoma this year. It's not known how many of those cases will involve the foot, but more than 8,100 melanoma patients will die? nearly one death every hour. If melanoma is detected in its earliest stages, 92 percent of patients are alive after five years.
Unlike many other types of cancer, melanoma strikes people of all age groups, even the young. Whites are 10 times more likely to develop melanoma than blacks. But studies suggest more than half of melanoma cases in blacks involve the foot, where late diagnosis leads to a higher death rate. Routine foot self exams increase the likelihood of noticing suspicious moles, freckles or other spots.
"The first question I'm going to ask a patient is, "How long has it been there?'" says Neil Campbell, DPM, FACFAS, a spokesman for the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS).
Foot and ankle surgeons recommend focusing on the three most common areas for foot melanoma: the soles, between the toes, and around or under the toenails. Campbell notes melanoma can develop anywhere on the body including areas that receive little sun exposure, such as the feet and ankles. If a mole, freckle or spot starts to change over the course of a month and becomes asymmetrical or changes its border, color, diameter or elevation, see a doctor immediately. Those are the ABCDEs, or signs, of melanoma.
For more information on malignant melanoma of the foot, or to find a local foot and ankle surgeon, visit the ACFAS consumer Web site, http://footphysicians.com/.
The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) is a professional society of more than 6,000 foot and ankle surgeons. Founded in 1942, the College's mission is to promote research and provide continuing education for the foot and ankle surgical specialty, and to educate the general public on foot health and conditions of the foot and ankle through its consumer website,
http://www.acfas.org/

Caffeine Lotion? Can it also Protect against Skin Cancers?

2007-08-05T15:51:00.000-04:00

This is another article I found suggesting a caffeine lotion can also be helpful in protection from skin cancer. It is not as recent (2002) as previous caffeine studies which I have included in my blog, but it certainly appears valid and potentially promising. It is not suggesting using caffeine lotions instead of sun lotion, as it does not offer protect against the sun. Instead it offers protection after sun exposure by blocking the actions which lead cells to become abnormal. For the entire article which appeared in "HealthWatch" follow this link: http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2002/08/26/health/main519822.shtml

Can Drinking Coffe Really Fight Skin Cancers?

2007-08-01T08:53:00.000-04:00

This article appeared in the U.S. News & World Report July 30, 2007. It suggests a cup of coffee or two; combined with exercise can

increase the destruction of precancerous cells which have been damaged by exposure to the sun's ultraviolet radiation. This is according to a team of researchers at Rutgers University. so far this has only been proven with mice, yet they feel strongly the human testing will result with similar findings. The testing involved 4 groups of mice, some received only caffeine, some only increased exercise, some received both exercise and caffeine, and the control group received neither. The results were amazingly high for the group receiving both caffeine and exercise. For the complete article follow the link:

http://www.topix.net/content/ap/2007/07/exercise-caffeine-fight-skin-cancer

My Learning Log for MMG508 Information Research & Technology

2007-07-29T11:34:00.000-04:00

After we completed our classroom time, part of the requirements to complete this course was to continue with 3-4 posts per week to our blogs, and comment on classmates posts. At the end of July we were to submit, via our blogs, a "Learning Log" for this course. This is my learning log for this course.

From Linda, Eileen and Lin I have increased my knowledge regarding the nursing shortage and the various factors affecting this profession. Being a nurse I knew some about many of these factors. Through my classmates research I have learned what is being done to decrease this problem, and many on the job techniques for reducing the stress associated with a multi-generational work force. All three of these women are a credit to the nursing profession.

From Jen I have increased my general knowledge regarding various ultrasounds and how they may be used in helping diagnosis in day to day issues. I have also learned from her the depth of knowledge required to do her job well, and she is a true professional!

Joann shares an interest which I have "dabbled in"; alternative therapies and complimentary medicine. I have several books on many of these topics, and an extensive collection of essential oils for use in aromatherapy techniques. She has brought to the forefront more information on a variety of CAM techniques.

Jocelyn has taught me more about gem diamonds than I ever realized possible! She is a true "Rock Wizard" and I would take her advise seriously and in a heartbeat. This woman knows her diamonds!

Mary Anne...she has shown me what real strength is all about. She has experienced the loss of her father during this course, yet she turned her loss into a beautiful learning log. She also came up with some terrific ideas to improve the workplace for all generations and types of workers. She should be featured on "Exceptional Women", the morning program heard on Magic WMJX, 106.7 radio station, right here in Boston!

MaryLou has found so many ways to educate us Baby Boomers, and keep us healthy. She has such a niche for teaching and does it exceedingly well! We need more "Boomers" like her!

Shannon has brought back the memories of how it was to be a child and use your pure imagination to create a fun, fantasy world. She reminds us all how important it is to encourage our children, through use of their imagination. They will become our leaders of tomorrow.

Tahia, so full of love and passion for what she wants to do. She will make an excellent Wedding Planner, although I think she should be "An Event Planner", not just limiting herself to weddings. I never realized how much was involved in putting a terrific, memorable wedding together. Things certainly have changed since I was married 35 years ago!

I have learned more about Melanoma than I ever wanted to know. This was not started initially out of a desire to do so , but a need to do so.I have through this class ,learned how to obtain scholarly research, and how to use technology to reach the largest audience possible; to warn others about the dangers associated with skin cancers. I plan to continue this blog. It is too important not to continue.

From Catherine Seo, our course professor, I have learned more about WEB 2.0 than I ever thought possible! I know more about the "codes of HTML/JavaScript" than I ever thought I would want or need to know, yet I have used them more than once in this project! I have realized what I do does make a difference, and the use of technology along with adding ClustrMap to my blog has only reinforced that belief. In less than 30 days I have had over 1000 visits to my blog from more than 53 areas across this country and the world! I think in part because melanoma affects everyone; it does not discriminate among races, creeds, skin tones, ages, or location. The fact I am having so many visits to my little blog site only reinforces this. None of this would have been possible without the help of Catherine. Her love and true passion for technology makes learning fun, and challenging. Her positive attitude always left me and others in my class, feeling like "Yes, we can do this". I can only wish all my remaining courses at Cambridge College are this stimulating! Most of my other courses have also been very educational and stimulating! Cambridge College truly creates an exceptional educational experience geared toward the adult learner. They realize all of us come to the table with a different skill set and valuable life learned experiences to be shared. They have an unique way of blending these experiences into the classroom setting and they do it very well!

Have You Ever Thought About Becoming a Writer?

2007-07-28T14:10:00.000-04:00

Did you even once think, "I could have written that". Well here is your chance to write, and then possibly win a prize and a scholarship. Danielle M. White author of ONLY SKIN DEEP? An Essential Guide to Effective Skin Cancer Programs and Resources and the co-founder of The Cancer Crusaders Organization invites writers of all ages and skill levels to enter an essay contest about skin cancers. The winning essay will later be published in her next book. See what she has to say about skin cancer.........."Skin cancer incidence in the U.S., and across the globe, continues to rise at an alarming rate," White says. "In fact, melanoma is killing more women ages 20-39 than any other cancer. Yet, this disease is preventable!" White continues, "In our on-going effort to raise awareness and educate people--especially young adults--about skin cancer, we thought an essay contest would be a great way to generate interest and participation, as well as provide further educational opportunities to our communities."

I think she is definitely onto something here. She has a great idea to get young people involved in protecting their own skin and learning at the same time. For the complete article and the rules for the essay, which needs to be received by August 25, 2007 click here:http://www.prweb.com/releases/2007/7/prweb542663.htm

Discard Your Old Suntan Lotions

2007-07-27T19:10:00.000-04:00

Just when you think it was safe to go out in the sun! Applying suntan lotion with the proper SPF is great, a first step in protecting against Melanoma. However, how many of you save the rest of the bottle when the summer season it over? New reports reveal if the product has gone past it's shelf life, you are using what amounts to a "no protection" lotion and you are remaining a potential Melanoma victim. Please read this informative article to insure maximum protection against this aggressive skin cancer.

Bin the Bottle and Stay Safe in the Sun
26/07/2007
Holidaymakers are being urged to bin the bottle and buy new protection for their 2007 holiday, if they want to stay safe in the sun.
Sun-lovers should discard any suntan creams, lotions or oils that are half-used, or past their sell by date, warns travel insurance provider Essential Travel. Old creams will be ineffective and could leave users vulnerable and exposed to skin damage. For the rest of the article click here:http://www.travelconnect.co.uk/News/BintheBottleandStaySafeintheSun_508.html

Melanoma On the Rise in Teens and Young Adults

2007-07-25T12:50:00.001-04:00

This article was found on the Cleveland Clinic Information site. They have done some amazing work with Melanoma studies and younger people. Young people are the target group I am hoping to educate as the most damage to the skin occurs before the age of 20. I want the older generations to be able to recognize any abnormal moles and have them treated, but I also want the younger generations to be able to avoid this deadly disease altogether, by using proper preventative measures. I know teenagers are going through an image conscious stage, and tans seem to make everyone more think they are attractive. I really want the teens of today to know the dangers associated with the 'wonderful tan" they are seeking. The tan can come with a price they may find too high to pay later down the road. Parents need to explain this in a non threatening way, so their teenagers accept what they are trying to teach them about the dangers of over exposure to the sun and tanning beds. If they choose not to listen to an adult, then listen to a peer.

Return to the posts I have of Miss Maryland, who was also diagnosed with Melanomas, which she attributes to over use of tanning booths, so she could look "Pageant Perfect", but I ask you at what cost? To view the entire article see the site:

http://www.clevelandclinic.org/health/health-info/docs/3800/3891.asp?index=12371

"Only mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the noon-day sun."

2007-07-24T16:28:00.000-04:00

Ruydard Kipling wrote the words I used for today's title post. I saw it used in an article written by DR. GIFFORD JONES, which appeared in the edmontonsun.com, lifestyle section. He was discussing the need to check your moles and any changes which may have occurred.

With the warm weather we will be experiencing over the next 2-3 days, I once again remind all who will be out in it to protect your skin. Use the suntan lotion liberally and apply often, break out that wide brimmed hat, and limit exposure during 10am-4pm.

If you would like to view Dr. G. Jones full article go to:http://www.edmontonsun.com/Lifestyle/2007/07/21/4356917-sun.html

Scientists Make Strides Against Melanoma

2007-07-22T16:00:00.000-04:00

This article appeared today in Forbes.com. It seems Melanoma is definitely in the forefront of today's news stories. I have copied the entire article here. I have covered much of this information previously and I bolded statements where I think we as a general population need to take heed and pay attention to the facts. Interesting reading.

Scientists Make Strides Against Melanoma07.22.07, 12:00 AM ET
SUNDAY, July 22 (HealthDay News) -- Melanoma remains a stubborn foe, with doctors reporting limited success in preventing the sometimes fatal skin cancer and even less success developing a cure.
"We'd like to reduce that death rate, but that's not happening," said Dr. Martin A. Weinstock, chairman of the American Cancer Society's Skin Cancer Advisory Committee. "We're not being effective in preventing melanoma. We've been making progress in early detection but not as much as we would like. And therapy for melanomas not detected early is basically poor."
But several advances announced in the last year -- from testing "sentinel" lymph nodes as a way to jump-start aggressive treatment, to new gene therapies that may one day beat back the cancer -- have given doctors a cautious sense of optimism.
Still, the experts add that these treatments need more testing, and prevention remains the best way to avoid the disease. So, the message remains the same -- protect yourself from the sun, and keep an eye on unusual skin growths.
"There are a lot of therapies that are promising," said Weinstock, professor of dermatology and community health at Brown University and chief of dermatology at the VA Medical Center in Providence, R.I. "But they're all possibilities. We just don't know if they're going to pan out yet."
Skin cancers in general are extremely survivable. The U.S. National Cancer Institute estimates that more than 1 million new cases of non-melanoma skin cancer will be diagnosed in 2007, claiming fewer than 2,000 lives.
Melanoma is another matter. It's rarer than basal cell or squamous cell skin cancer, with about 59,900 new cases expected to strike Americans this year. But it will kill an estimated 8,110 people, according to the cancer institute.
Melanoma remains frustratingly hard to prevent and cure, Weinstock said.
It begins in skin cells called melanocytes that produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin its natural color. Skin exposed to the sun causes melanocytes to produce more pigment, creating a sun tan. Sometimes, clusters of melanocytes and surrounding tissues form moles on the skin.
Melanoma occurs when those pigment cells become malignant. The first sign of trouble often is a change in the size, shape, color or feel of an existing mole, with most melanomas displaying a black or blue-black area. Melanoma also can appear as a new mole that is black or looks abnormal or ugly, according to the cancer institute.
If undetected or left untreated, melanoma can spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver, lungs or brain. The first sign that melanoma has spread, or metastasized, usually is the appearance of cancer cells in the body's lymph nodes. Part of the body's defense system, the nodes produce lymph, which travels throughout the body and filters out impurities.
In the past, doctors fighting melanoma would remove many or all of the body's lymph nodes to help prevent the spread of the cancer. But the experimental sentinel node biopsy technique allows doctors to remove only a few lymph nodes directly affected by the melanoma.
In the procedure, a radioactive substance is injected near the melanoma and its progress through the body is tracked. The first lymph nodes to take up the substance are called the sentinel lymph nodes.
Since the cancer is most likely to head to those lymph nodes first, only those nodes are surgically removed for testing. If positive, the rest of the lymph nodes are tested and removed. But if negative, the patient avoids what can be a painful procedure.
Sentinel node biopsy has been around for about two decades, but new studies have shown that its use can give patients a better fighting chance against metastasized melanoma.
A 2006 study headed by Dr. Donald L. Morton, who helped create the technique, found that patients whose lymph nodes tested positive and then had the rest of their nodes removed enjoyed a much higher five-year survival rate, compared with people who tested positive but delayed removal of their lymph nodes.
"The risk of dying from melanoma was almost one-half reduced if you had the lymph nodes removed versus waiting for them to grow to a detectable size," said Morton, medical director and chief of the melanoma program at John Wayne Cancer Institute at Saint John's Health Center, in Santa Monica, Calif.
Other scientists have found that boosting the immune system's ability to recognize and destroy cancer cells shows promise in treating melanoma.
In a recent study, National Cancer Institute researchers treated 17 patients with advanced, metastatic melanoma with white blood cells called T-lymphocytes that had been genetically engineered to better recognize the skin cancer. The result: Two of the patients went into a sustained remission.
Doctors believe this shows that such gene therapy can work, but much more work and many refinements remain ahead.
Until these tactics are improved upon, Weinstock recommends that people use the American Cancer Society's recommended "Slip, Slop, Slap" strategy for fighting skin cancer.
"The one major avoidable cause of melanoma is exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun," Weinstock said. "Slip on a shirt, slop on the sunscreen and slap on a hat."
More information
To learn more about melanoma, visit the American Cancer Society.

Familial Melanoma Monitoring Worthwhile

2007-07-21T16:27:00.000-04:00

By David Douglas
NEW YORK JUL 17, 2007 (Reuters Health) - A program aimed at relatives of people with hereditary cutaneous melanoma and dysplastic nevus syndrome achieves beneficial results, Swedish researchers report in the July 1st issue of the Journal of Clinical Oncology.
"Our study," lead investigator Dr. Johan Hansson told Reuters Health, "shows that a coordinated program aimed at detecting and performing preventive activities in kindreds with familial melanoma results in a low number of diagnosed melanomas during follow-up among participating family members, as well as early diagnosis of those melanomas that still do occur."
For the rest of the story link to site:http://www.cancerpage.com/news/article.asp?id=11122

From Channel 9, WSRY=TV, Syracuse

2007-07-20T14:51:00.000-04:00

In Depth: Fighting Skin Cancer
Last Update: Jul 19, 2007 11:50 PM, This newscast did a nice job complete with pictures of both normal and abnormal moles. To view the entire article and program click here: http://www.9wsyr.com/content/family_healthcast/story.aspx?content_id=f3afa916-475b-4d18-92d0-9d1acfc0e3b2

Know Your Melanomas-The Basic Types

2007-07-18T20:59:00.000-04:00

There are actually different types of Melanoma.

Superficial spreading melanoma accounts for 60-70% of all melanomas. This is the most common and this particular type travels along the very top layers of skin before penetrating to deeper levels. It is generally flat, can have various colors and may present with irregular boarders.

Nodular melanomas are the second most common type of melanomas and they are responsible for 15-30% of melanoma cases. It will generally present as a black lump appearing on the arms, legs and trunk of the elderly and the scalps of men.

Lentigo melanoma is another type. It appears similar to the superficial type, and accounts for 5%of the melanomas on the elderly and generally appears on sun damaged arms,faces and ears.

Another type is acral lentiginous melanoma. It usually appears under the nails or on the soles of the feet or palms of the hands. it is the most common form of melanoma found in Asians and Afro-Americans and accounts for 5% of all melanomas, it is least common among Caucasians.

Desmoplastic melanoma is a very rare, very aggressive, and the hardest to diagnosis. It usually appears on the neck and head of elderly patients.

The most important point to come away with is, they are all Melanomas, they all need examination from a physician and they will all need follow-up! Learn to become sun-savvy and know your moles!

Sun Burns on the rise, which state is worst?

2007-07-17T00:00:00.000-04:00

I just found this interesting article on sunburns. It is the latest study available, completed in 2004. the study looked at the rise in sunburns, state by state. Please make note this is a sunburn study, different than the state by state listing of the top 10 for newly diagnosed cases of Melanoma which I have previously listed. Remember sunburns are the first step toward the development of Melanomas. From the article:

Here is that list for 2004, the most recent year for which state statistics are available. States with the same percentage are ranked together. Hawaii and Guam didn't report sunburn statistics in the 2004 survey.
1.U.S. Virgin Islands: 50.1%
2.Utah: 49.9%
3.Minnesota: 48.7%
4.Wisconsin: 48.6%
5.Idaho: 48.5%
6.Wyoming: 48.3%
7.Vermont: 47.1%
8.Nebraska: 46.9%
9.North Dakota: 46.4%
10.South Dakota: 46.1%
11.Michigan: 45.6%
12.Missouri: 45.2%
13.Colorado: 45.1%
14.Montana: 44.1%
15.Maryland: 43.9%
16.New Hampshire: 43.8%
17.Iowa, Oregon, and Washington: 43.6%
18.Ohio: 43.4%
19.Indiana: 43.3%
20.Connecticut: 43.1%
21.Arkansas and Virginia: 42.9%
22.Pennsylvania: 42.7%
23.Maine and Massachusetts: 42.6%
24.Arizona: 42.1%
25.Illinois: 41.7%
26.South Carolina: 41.6%
27.Oklahoma: 41.5%
28.Delaware and Kansas: 41.4%
29.New Mexico: 41.3%
30.Mississippi: 40.5%
31.New Jersey and New York: 40.2%
32.Washington, D.C.: 40.1%
33.Alabama: 39.6%
34.Georgia: 39.2%
35.Rhode Island: 38.7%
26.Nevada: 38.3%
37.West Virginia: 38%
38.Florida and Texas: 37.7%
39.California: 34.8%
40.Alaska: 34.1%
41.Tennessee: 32.6%
42.Louisiana: 30.5%
43.North Carolina: 28.1%
44.Kentucky: 27%
45.Puerto Rico: 14.2%

The data don't show whether those people got sunburned in their home state or elsewhere, whether they got burned by the sun or in a tanning bed, or what (if any) sun protection they were using at the time.
The results appear in the CDC's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

For the full article and complete story please go to:http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=81463

The A,B, C, D and now "E" 's of Moles

2007-07-16T19:05:00.000-04:00

I have previously talked about the A,B,C and D's of mole criteria. It has been brought to my attention there is now an "E". E for Enlargement. Taken from a comment from "Brian";
"More recently physicians have recognized the importance of moles that are new or getting larger in predicting high risk lesions. They have now added E for enlargement to the criteria and many recommend following the ABCDE’s. Having reliable information on whether a mole is changing increases the specificity of the skin exam and could therefore reduce the over-diagnosis of suspicious lesions."

Thank you Brian for your useful addition. To view Brian's complete comment see his entry under 7/15/07 "OK, Test Time".

A Non-Kitchen Use for "Glad Press'N Seal"

2007-07-15T16:31:00.000-04:00

Well I made a discovery this week! This may be known to some of you, but if not here it is! Glad Press'N Seal wrap, the wrap which sticks to bowls, containers, and other surfaces also sticks to skin!!! We needed to find a way to keep the dressing over the wide excision and skin graft clean and dry until later into this week. Well, Glad Press'n Seal works so well! I strongly suggest using it for anyone who needs to cover a dressing and keep it dry. Be sure to firmly press down on all areas of the skin to be sure you have a good seal. Then take your shower! Kevin has been using this for the last couple of days to keep the dressing dry. All the "waterproof tape" and using plastic wraps prior to giving Glad Press'N Seal a try, was not working.

OK, test time!

2007-07-15T14:15:00.000-04:00

I have added an element to my blog. I have a quick quiz along my side bar. Please locate it and take my Melanoma quiz. I promise, no failing grades!

Thanks!

Sunscreen Summary — What Works and What's Safe

2007-07-14T11:37:00.000-04:00

This is an excellent link! A recent study tested 785 brand- name sunscreens. Not only does this study point out many sunscreens do not live up to the sun protection they claim, but many are not even safe to use!

A quote from the article:"Most people trust that the claims on the bottle will ensure that the product truly protects their health and their families'. Nothing could be less certain."

Please take the time to check out this list and see if you are using a safe and effective product. http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/special/sunscreens/summary.php

Did You Know???

2007-07-13T19:51:00.000-04:00

"The incidence of melanomas is also increasing more rapidly for people living in sunny climates; for example, it quadruples every ten years in Australasia but only doubles in Northern Europe. "

For the full story see this link:http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/health/our_experts/article1926920.ece

Australians have the highest incidence of Melanoma worldwide. Being in the Outback, one needs to protect their back! Check those moles often. Happy Friday, enjoy the weekend and play in the sun...safely.

Not as harmless as it looks: Melanoma on rise: Dermatologists seeing disease in younger patients

2007-07-12T20:25:00.000-04:00

This article should be read by all parents of children under 20 years of age. It was just released today, so it doesn't get much fresher! An excerpt:

“More than two blistering sunburns before age 20 increases your risk of melanoma,” said Dr. Jane Rowe, a dermatologist with Blair Medical Associates in Altoona. Malignant melanoma is a type of cancer that occurs in the melanocytes cells of the skin. Melanocytes produce melanin, or the skin’s brown pigment. When a person has melanoma, the melanocytes give rise to malignant tumors.

Please click on the link to read the entire article. Your children's health depends on it!

http://www.altoonamirror.com/Life/articles.asp?articleID=13443

Dancing Friesian Horse

2007-07-11T16:30:00.001-04:00

Well I promised if we had good news you'd see a "Dancing Horse". Friesians are the breed we have so I think it only right a Friesian dances for you! The node biopsy showed a few atypical cells, however they assured us it is nothing to worry about. The only thing the PET Scan showed was some arthritis in Kevin's left wrist! A little Advil and he can live with arthritis! He can live with that for a long, long, time! Thank you all; both my MEEI family and my Cambridge College family for your support and understanding. As the song at the end of the dance says.."You're Simply the BEST!

We visit the Oncologist tomorrow

2007-07-10T19:51:00.000-04:00

Well tomorrow Kevin has his post-op visit from the skin grafting ,node biopsy and PET Scan with the oncology group. I am assuming they will have all results available. I am being positive because I think if it were awful news they would have called us to move the appointment up. At least I want to think that. I added a "News Reel" section to my blog. It is pretty good, you key in certain words and the latest in the news appears when you click the highlighted areas. Of course you also get articles about suntan lotions on airplanes, nothing to do with Melanoma protection, but it did find the words "suntan lotion" and pops up the article. Try it with your blog, if you don't like what is coming up, simply delete the post! Easy! I am sharing a picture of Kevin and myself from a couple of years ago. I was just recovering from a broken pelvis and have put on a few extra pounds from lying around for 10 weeks! Kevin looks the same, he never ages! He has the same waist size he did when we got married 35 years ago! I wish I did! Until tomorrow.

2007-07-09T16:14:00.000-04:00

The World Health Organization has many interesting articles which provide information on several topics. One of those topics is centered around sunbeds, tanning and UV exposure. Follow the link for the complete and informative article.

http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs287/en/index.html

There is nothing better than a Sunday morning trail ride!

2007-07-08T14:17:00.000-04:00

Happy Sunday! Kevin is doing well, no more "wooziness" from narcotics in his system. His pain has been controlled by Tylenol since Friday evening. He wanted Advil but I would not give it to him because of the bleeding potential post operatively. Today I left him early to join a young friend for a trail ride. We knew it would be a hot one so the plan was to leave early and it worked well. We left in the trailer from my place at 8am. We were ready to ride by 9 am. I must share, she just turned 18 and is the picture of youth; bronze, blond hair, full of energy and a "I know it all attitude". We, or most of us have been there. She had appropriate riding shoes and breeches on but she attempted to leave the barn with a "tank top" and NO sunscreen! How far do you think that went??..... Not far... her Mom asked if she applied sunscreen, she said "No, I don't need it I have a tan". I gently reminded her, "tans do not protect, look what I just went through with Kevin". This is a very bright young lady who plans to become an MD. I know she has the potential to meet those goals as she was essentially handed a full scholarship to the college of her choice. She then agreed, "you're right" and let her Mom apply the sunscreen. We went off and had a very nice ride, where I took the opportunity over the next 1 1/2 hours to share a bit more of what I have learned about Melanomas. I had a captive audience... where could she go on a one lane trail! She will be a great physician, she listens well!

WebMDLog

2007-07-07T14:45:00.000-04:00

I was playing around on Technorati and found this interesting WebMDLog. An interesting post, very informative. you may have heard the information already, but remember you need to hear something three times before you truly retain and absorb it. You can never have too much knowledge! Check this out. http://blogs.webmd.com/all-ears/2007/05/here-comes-sun-watch-out.html

Metastasized melanoma cancer treatment results after being treated with alternative complementary and holistic health care

2007-07-07T09:59:00.001-04:00

Another video, this one is an infomercial for CAM. JoAnn should check this out for her blog as it is directly related. www.sanoviv.com

Melanoma Awarness Public Service Video

2007-07-07T09:42:00.001-04:00

One more video,lots of good information.

Melanoma Insight: ScienCentral News Video

2007-07-07T09:40:00.001-04:00

Another very interesting video. Genetic research looking to fight melanoma on a cellular level, using genes.

Nuclear Medicine

2007-07-06T16:44:00.000-04:00

Nuclear medicine has come a long way. Think back to the bomb shelters of the 50's and 60's, where everyone was fearful of nuclear radiation fallout. People were encouraged to build lead lined shelters in their own yards to protect them from possible radiation fallout, which would lead to a 'horrible death". Today people are willing to have radioactive tracers injected into their very own bodies, not as a way to end their lives, but as a way to help prolong their life. In the past two days nuclear medicine has played a big part in Kevin's battle to rid melanoma from his life. Two different radioactive tracers have been used; one to help with the node mapping, the other, done today to look for "hot spots" or areas of metastases. Today's PET Scan using a radioactive tracer, will give a three dimensional view of his entire body, identifying hot zones, where cancer may have spread to. The process starts with fasting, then they give you a "banana flavored drink" which helps move the tracer through the body. After drinking it, you wait about 30 minutes then the radioactive tracer is injected. After a very short period of time the scanning begins. It takes about 2 hours for a total body scan. Then you go home with no restrictions. Follow up with the oncologist will take place this Wednesday, then the results of the PET Scan and the node biopsy will be discussed. We have the weekend off, no doctors, no tests, just waiting until Wednesday. Honestly the waiting is truly the hard part. Stay cool and have a nice weekend. It will be a hot one. Don't forget the sunscreen!

Join Technorati.com

2007-07-06T09:54:00.000-04:00

Linda is right! It is simple and easy to join.

Technorati Profile

PET Scans (Positron emission tomography)

2007-07-06T08:03:00.001-04:00

PET Scans are the newest addition to the many tools used to diagnosis cancers and check for metastases. A radioactive tracer is injected into the patients system. As the tracer breaks down it emits a positron, which can be tracked and located by the PET Scan. Learn more about the details by clicking on this site.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pet_scans
Kevin will be injected at 12:30pm today with the tracer. His scan is scheduled for 2:30pm. When we leave the hospital today we will know much more regarding Kevin's current state of health.When I first entered nursing this technology did not even exist. It is amazing how far we have come in such a short time! Fast and accurate diagnosis is key when fighting melanoma. PET Scans have become a part of the standard of care in treating this cancer.

Surgery Day

2007-07-05T16:49:00.000-04:00

The day started at 6am, and we were home by 3pm. Kevin did well with the anesthesia, the surgeon states the margins are clean with a little better than a 1 cm cancer free boarder.The skin graft went well, it will leave a bit of a divot on his neck, but we can LIVE with divots. We will not know about the node until early next week. Kevin will have his PET Scan tomorrow. He could have just stayed in the hospital, but he wanted to come home. I guess it's my good cooking which made him come home for supper! (Nothing against Jordan, but in the kitchen I am a tough act to follow!)

The new day surgery unit at the Jordan Hospital is wonderful! Bright, open, cheery and very clean. Very nicely done. They have a lovely quiet conference room which they escort you to after surgery, there you can discuss how things went with the surgeon. They made me feel welcome and acted like I was the only person waiting to hear news regarding their loved ones. I was treated like a queen, yet I feel this is how they treat all their patients. They did not know I was a nurse, I was another family member of a patient they were caring for. I guess that is the key word, "caring" , they do it well. It is no surprise to me that they have earned the Magnet Status Award. It will be another fasting night, as you cannot have anything but water for 6 hours prior to the PET Scan. Until tomorrow, I hope I post more good news!

July 4th 2006 Fire Works in Boston

2007-07-04T07:56:00.001-04:00

Now this is how we do fireworks in Boston! Go Pops!:)

Fireworks Finale NYC July 4th

2007-07-04T07:51:00.001-04:00

Have a happy and safe holiday. Remember to protect both your eyes and skin. Use the sunscreen while enjoying your cookouts, and sunglasses during the day. If you are not going to view fireworks tonight I have provided a short clip for you to enjoy

UV Index Forecast Map

2007-07-02T10:26:00.000-04:00

The ozone layer protects the Earth from the harmful effect of Ultraviolet radiation (UV) The protection offered by the ozone layer varies day to day based on seasonal effects, weather conditions, and general ozone depletion rates. One way you can protect your skin from harmful radiation rays is by utilizing the forecast map for the current UV index in your area and follow the advised precautions. The UV index predicts radiation levels using a 1-11+ scale. The higher the level the more protection needed to prevent damage to your skin. You can check your local area for current levels for a four day forecast. The site is managed under the EPA. Check out this site: http://www.epa.gov/sunwise/uvindex.html

Miss Maryland 2006 Discusses Skin Cancer Prevention Tips...

2007-06-30T11:55:00.001-04:00

Monte Meltzer, Dermatologist, Talks About Skin Cancer

2007-06-30T10:44:00.001-04:00

The A,B, and C's of melanoma.

Melanoma Cancer Staging

2007-06-30T09:50:00.000-04:00

Malignant melanoma are staged according to the severity of the invading tumor. This staging ranges from Stage O-Stage IV. Treatment options vary with the stages and the higher the stage the worse the prognosis. I have added a link which defines each stage should you wish more information.

http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/treatment/melanoma/Patient/page2#Keypoint8

Wide Excision and Sentinel Lymph Node Mapping for Melanoma

2007-06-30T08:55:00.001-04:00

The sentinel node mapping and biopsy is the next procedure my husband is having done. Along with an increasing of the margins from the tumor which was already removed and a skin graft. If the node biopsy returns negative, that will indicate the cancer has not spread into his lymph node system. That is what we are hoping for!

More Mole Pictures

2007-06-30T08:36:00.000-04:00

Please check this site out. It shows you more pictures of how a malignant mole may appear.

http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/wyntk/moles-and-dysplastic-nevi/page9

Another Educational Tool

2007-06-29T13:52:00.001-04:00

Here is another link which will help educate you regarding the need for protection from the harmful sun rays. there is a nice section which reviews "some commons myths". check it out.

http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs271/en/

What's it all about?

2007-06-29T08:48:00.000-04:00

Melanomas are the most serious form of skin cancers. It is a malignant tumor of the melanocytes which are the cells that make the pigment in our skin. These tumors grow downward through the epidermis and dermis layers of the skin. If they go deep enough they can enter the lymph system and migrate to other parts of the body. Our skin is the largest organ in the human body. To have cancer strike in the largest organ of the body can be extremely frightening. If caught early enough melanonas are very curable. If it is not identied and treated early the prognosis it not as bright. The best defense is a good offense. Please check out this link which has a risk assessment tool for melanoma. Happy Friday!
http://www.cancer.gov/melanomarisktool/

Did you Know?

2007-06-28T22:16:00.001-04:00

Melanomas are the most aggressive type of skin cancers? Did you know men die twice as fast as women from this disease? Did you know the location of the melanoma is important, because the risks increase if the melanoma is on the neck or head versus the extremities? Did you know melanomas are the only type of skin can which can metastasize? Basal and squamous skin cell cancer are located deeper into the skin system, but they do not travel? How much more do you not know about this common deadly disease?

It's Going to be a Hot Time

2007-06-25T13:15:00.000-04:00

Well if you have listened to the weather for this upcoming week you have probably heard how hot it will be by Wednesday. This means people will be wearing less clothes, spending more time in the sun and increasing their risk of developing malignant melanomas unless they take proper precautions.

One sunburn , even as a young child is all that is needed to increase your risk of developing this type of skin cancer. The more hours spent in the sun prior to age 20 greatly enhances the chance of developing melanomas later in life. If you are going to be spending time in the sun you should follow a few simple precautions:

Wear a sunscreen with a SPF of at least 30 for adults and 50-60 for young children, re-apply frequently

Wear a wide brimmed hat

Wear sunglasses to protect against ultraviolet-B rays

Avoid sun exposure between the hours of 10am-4pm if possible

The closer one lives to the sun, for example the more southern states, the greater the risk factor.

Keeping this in mind, go out and enjoy a safe, sunny day!

When Things Go Wrong

2007-06-23T17:01:00.001-04:00

This blog was originally to be a fun project, a part of our research class. You may have noticed I have not posted anything for the last week.

When I left class on Sunday, which was my birthday, I was very excited for multiple reasons. I had an entire week off for vacation. A week planned to continue work on our property, and now I could also get a head start on my research project, "Dancing Horses" which is really about the dressage style of riding put to music. It has nothing to do with my ILP project, Hippotherapy. I was following Catherine's advice and researching a strictly fun project, something I always wanted to learn more about but really did not have the time to do so. this would give me the excuse I needed to learn more about the origins of dressage.

Monday June 18, 2007 I spent the better part of the day collecting my dressage information, storing it on del.icio.us, viewing You tube videos for the best "dancing horses" I could find, and really feeling good I was getting a head start on my blog project.

Tuesday my husband had a routine post-op visit with a surgeon who had removed a mole from his back the week before. His PCP did not think the mole really was anything to worry about but had referred him to the surgeon just to be safe. l accompanied my husband to the office and fumed as we waited for the physician who was 1 hour behind schedule. When my husband went in for his visit I asked if he wanted me to join him in the room, he said no he'd be right out. Thirty minutes later he came back out and said"I think you need to join us".

That is when the surgeon informed us not only did my husband have malignant melanoma,but due to the depth of the biopsy, and the fact that is did not come back with clean margins, there was a strong possibility this melanoma had entered his lymph system. Not a good way to begin the week.

My blog project quickly went to the very bottom on my list of priorities which needed to be done this week. My research was now focused on what we needed to know to deal with this cancer which my husband has now been diagnosed with and getting to the other physicians we needed to see before his surgery date.

It was a whirlwind week, but we did see his PCP, spoke with the cancer center, had pre-op lab work and EKG's done, and next week he will complete his pre-op visit with the anesthesia department.

When the dust settled, I thought how am I going to keep going with school? My first impulse was to simply drop out of this course. Not a smart financial move, but certainly an option. The other option was to take things one step at a time.

The doctors will not know for sure if it has entered the lymph system until after the find the sentinel node and remove it to test for spread of the malignancy. So things still could be OK. I then contacted Catherine and asked to change my topic and share what I have learned about melanomas of the skin. Perhaps you will all learn something which could help you in your own personal protection against this common skin cancer which affects some 56,000 new patients a year and results in the deaths of over 8,000 people per year. This will become my new blog topic.

Dancing Horses

2007-06-17T13:59:00.000-04:00

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