Fund To Prevent Cervical Cancer

Published on Jun 11 2010, in the categories: Preventive measures

Cervical cancer in one of the most preventable cancer forms in USA and many women are undergoing regular Pap tests which is the main factor that has significantly reduced the incidence of cervical cancer since the beginning of last century. However, women are beginning to postpone or simply forget about their Pap tests since it is no longer portrayed so much as a big danger for women. This tendency has lead to a slight tendency of increase in cervical cancer incidence. In 2009 around 11,300 women were estimated to be diagnosed with cervical cancer out of which about 4,100 were expected to die from it. This makes cervical cancer a serious infliction and it's even more difficult to accept when you know you could have so easily prevented it.
<-336x280 Large Rectangle - center->
Many funds are being raised now by various organizations to make sure that awareness increases and that measures to prevent the cancer become house-hold terms and a part of women's lives. A lot of funding is also going into research and clinical trials, especially in the direction of improving vaccines and targeted therapies.

fund-to-prevent-cervical-cancer

You can easily contribute yourself to the cause by finding a foundation that deals with these issues. You can even find a Facebook cause where you can donate but it would probably be wiser to do it with an authorized foundation. For example, The Prevent Cancer Foundation also raises funds for every type of cancer including cervical cancer. This foundation began in 1985 and it is one of USA's leading health organizations. It is also one of the first institutions we should thank for the extreme recent improvements in cancer prevention. The Prevent Cancer Foundation promotes healthy life choices and it takes great pride in having provided cancer prevention and early detection causes with funds of more that 106 million $ invested in education community outreach programs. The foundation has also given numerous grants to scientists from more than 150 academic centers. Check out their website and see how you can contribute too.

Another fund you can donate to is The Diane Crawford Cervical Cancer Research, Education, Outreach Fund which was initiated in 2009 but has already invested a lot in cervical cancer research and prevention through screening. Its funds are directed towards The CCC-Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and the Richard J. Solove Research Institute.

fund-to-prevent-cervical-cancer-2

Many other organizations join these two prestigious institutions in the effort of raising funds for cervical cancer and you can see how they have helped just by looking around. Developing countries are benefiting more and more form cervical cancer vaccines, low-income women also have access to cervical cancer screening and new research and studies are being conducted every day to develop and improve current treatments.

CDC Cervical Cancer Screening

Published on Jun 10 2010, in the categories: Preventive measures, Prognosis

The CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) as an organization dealing with issues like disease awareness, early diagnosis and treatment. The CDC is one of the most important components of the Departement of Health and Human Services and is itself divided into CIO's (Center, Institute and Offices) which implements CDC programmes in a certain area of expertise while still communicating with each other and ensure a resource-sharing system for public health threats. This allows CDC to respond more effectively to each concern and public health issue.
<-336x280 Large Rectangle - center->
The major objective of CDC's activity is to supply people with information, expertise help and various tools that they can use to keep themselves safe from any health threats. Methods of doing this include public awareness campaigns, health promotion, disease prevention and overall preparedness for any possible dangers for our health and that of our loved ones.

cdc-cervical-cancer-screening

Since cervical cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer, the CDC is very actively involved in making sure that women are aware of the dangers of cervical cancer, HPV infections and other rusk factors generated by an unhealthy lifestyle. By undergoing regular Pap screenings any woman can be sure to detect any abnormality of the cervix at a stage where it is still 100% curable. Two tests are most commonly used to diagnose cervical cancer or precancerous lesions. The Pap test is the most frequently used screening procedure as it is also one the most reliable screening tests available for all cancers. This test looks and is guaranteed to detect any precancerous changes of the cervix. Women should start getting the test on a regular basis when they turn 21 or in the first three years after they become sexually active. The HPV test is also commonly used for detecting the infection with the HPV virus and links it to certain cell changes in the cervix. This is used in the case of women over 30 ar women of all ages with inconcludent Pap results.

cdc-cervical-cancer-screening

As a main component of CDC's activity regarding cervical cancer, The National Breast and Cervical Early Detection Program is a program that is aimed at supporting screenings, tracking, monitoring, follow-up treatments and individual case management in patients with cervical cancer or women exposed to the risk of developing it. Partnership development, professional training and public awareness are also significant objectives of the program. One of the main reasons for its popularity is that you can also get free screening through the program if you qualify for one of course. This is basically available for uninsured, low-income and underserved patients but if you want to find out for sure if you qualify, you should call your local program or 1-800-CDC-INFO.

ACCP Preventing Cervical Cancer Worldwide

Published on May 24 2010, in the categories: Preventive measures, cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is becoming rarer as methods and organizations for preventing it gain popularity and raise public awareness more successfully with every day.
<-336x280 Large Rectangle - center->
Even so, cervical cancer still finds it way and kills almost 300.000 women worldwide. The most susceptible to developing it are women from poor countries with at least 80% of cancers related deaths occur in developing countries, and regions like South Asia, sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Latin America.

Though we are all comforted by the fact that there are so many ways to prevent the cancer or eliminate it early in its development, women from poorer countries even if they are fortunate enough to have such methods within reach, they're most likely not able to afford it.

This is one of the reasons organizations have been formed to facilitate the reach to the Pap test or the vaccine and to fund countries to supply this medicine and tests to the people. One such organization is the ACCP.

accp-preventing-cervical-cancer-worldwide


With the help of a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, between 1999 and 2004, five international organizations formed the Alliance for Cervical Cancer Prevention (ACCP). They all shared the goal of working to fight and prevent cervical cancer in developing countries.

The ACCP's activities and measures include assessing innovative approaches to screening and treatment improves lateral services such as the delivery systems, ensures that a realistic approach is taken in relation with the specific needs of the community helped and works hard to raise awareness of cervical cancer among the people in the community but also to those at home.

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has also done more than just jump start the whole thing. All throughout the implementations of its programs the foundation has continues funding and encouraged research and demonstration projects in Ghana, India, Peru, South Africa and Thailand. Their activity goes on as you read this and they are always welcoming new volunteers.

Unfortunately progress is slow and many times volunteers can diagnose the disease but are helpless when it comes to treating it and most of the time, they diagnose it too late in its development to prescribe any treatment at all except one for alleviating pain and other symptoms. But even painkillers are sometimes missing. The best chance for these women is a regular screening. This is vital for the women and it can actually be done using relatively simple technology. If the slightest abnormality is discovered in the tissue it can easily be treated and the women will not develop cancer and will not even experience the smallest discomfort from the condition.

accp-preventing-cervical-cancer-worldwide

The organization's activity has been highly effective in raising funds and allowing more and more women access to Pap screenings and the cervical cancer vaccine. You can look for a way to contribute yourself and you can be sure you made a difference.

Breast And Cervical Cancer Prevention

Published on Apr 07 2010, in the categories: Preventive measures

Some info on breast cancer prevention and treatment:

The partial mastectomy should generally be followed by radiation to destroy cancer cells that may have remained in the breast. It reduces the risk of a recurrence of tumor.
<-336x280 Large Rectangle - center->
In case of mastectomy, radiotherapy is not always necessary.

Chemotherapy :

Chemotherapy uses a class of drugs called antineoplastics to treat cancer. For breast cancer, it is usually given after surgery. It is used to destroy cancer cells that would escape the primary tumor. The choice of whether or not to chemotherapy depends on the stage of disease progression.
breast-and-cervical-cancer-prevention

Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy is most often associated with surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy.

If examination of the tumor shows that the cancer has hormone receptors, its development is sensitive to sex hormones. Some drugs can slow or stop the progression of colorectal cancer by blocking the action of hormones.

There are two types of hormone:

* Anti-estrogens such as tamoxifen Nolvadex-D which binds to the surface of cancer cells, the receptors normally occupied by estrogen. The drug is administered orally in tablet form;

Targeted therapy

Sometimes, in women with invasive breast cancer, cancer cells overexpress the HER2 gene.This causes a more rapid growth of the tumor. When this happens, we can give a drug, trastuzumab Herceptin , which specifically blocks the action of the HER2 gene. The drug is administered intravenously.
breast-and-cervical-cancer-prevention3

Research continues to find other biological therapies. This type of treatment usually causes fewer side effects than chemotherapy and hormonal therapy, because it is more targeted.



How to prevent or treat lymphedema?

Lymphedema arm is an important complication that can occur after treatment. It is characterized by swelling of the arm (affected side). The arm becomes heavy and painful.Lymphedema occurs in approximately 25% of women who undergo surgery to treat cancer sein10. The risk depends on the extent of tissue removed by surgery. The recess of the underarm lymph nodes and radiation near the armpits increase this risk. Lymphedema can occur several days after treatment or months or even years later.

Various measures to help prevent lymphedema or prevent it getting worse:

* Inform the doctor as soon as possible if a heaviness in the arm appears after treatment;
* Avoid lifting heavy objects in the days following surgery, using his arms and stretching out gradually;
* Be sure to protect the skin of the arm at risk of cuts, burns and insect bites, avoiding all types of bites on the arm (vaccines, blood, acupuncture needles, etc..), Especially if theLymphedema is installed;
* Wear gloves for manual tasks (cleaning, renovations, garden, etc..)
* Do moderate exercise on a regular basis, these exercises should involve arm movements and solicit good arm muscles, your doctor can advise you on this subject;
* Lose weight if obese, because obesity can cause or exacerbate the onset lymphedema;
* Avoid the hot temperatures if it seems to cause heaviness in the arm in the very hot water baths, steam baths, hot climates.

There is no effective treatment in the short term to overcome lymphedema. Some measures can nevertheless relieve symptoms:

* Wear a compression garment made to measure that tightens the whole arm, 24 hours 24;
* Drainage practice exercises and stretching the arm and shoulder;
* Physical exercise suited to the abilities (walking, swimming, yoga, etc.).
* Receive treatment manual lymphatic drainage, a gentle massage technique that stimulates lymph flow.



Like any cancer, breast cancer is scary. Undergoing treatment is a great test. Fortunately, today we have much knowledge about the treatment of cancer. Each woman with a salary "measure". Although breast cancer is very common, fewer and fewer women die. Have confidence in your chances of recovery.

When ever had breast cancer, it is more likely to be achieved by a second. If this is your case, have a regular monitoring with your doctor and practice good habits. These are the best ways to do your part to fight this disease and also to live better.


Breast And Cervical Cancer Prevention

Published on Apr 07 2010, in the categories: Preventive measures

Here are some measures and info that will help you diagnose and combat breast cancer

Researchers suggests that people with higher risk of vitamin D - which includes seniors, those whose skin pigmentation is dark and people rarely exposed to the sun - to do the same throughout the year. According to some studies, such a vitamin D reduces the risk of cancer of the prostate, breast and colorectal cancers. For more information, consult the Vitamin D.
<-336x280 Large Rectangle - center->
* In people at high risk of breast cancer (as carriers of BRCA), and only among them, some drugs are sometimes given to prevention. For example, tamoxifen. Discuss with the doctor.

Eating foods rich in phytoestrogens (soy, flaxseed) Is it harmful for women who have had breast cancer?

Phytoestrogens are plant molecules that chemically similar to estrogen produced by humans.They comprise two main families: the isoflavones, mainly present in soybeans, and lignans, including flaxseed are the best dietary source.
breast-and-cervical-cancer-prevention2

These substances could contribute to the growth of breast cancer with hormone? When writing this record, the debate was open. Experiments in vitro indicate that these substances may indeed stimulate estrogen receptors in tumor cells. They can also interfere with hormonal treatments for breast cancer, such as tamoxifen and aromatase of inibiteurs (Arimidex, Femara, Aromasin). However, after reviewing the available scientific evidence in humans, experts believe that moderate consumption of soy food is safe for women at risk for breast cancer .

For its part, nutritionists advises women with breast cancer and those who have already suffered to avoid eating foods rich in phytoestrogens, as a precaution.

That include prevention, in women without diabetes, a diet rich in isoflavones appears to protect breast cancer.


Medical treatment of breast cancer


Treatment depends on the type of cancer and its stage of development. Surgery is an integral part of processing the vast majority of breast cancers.
breast-and-cervical-cancer-prevention-22

There are 5 categories of treatment:

* Surgery;
* Radiotherapy
* Chemotherapy;
* Hormone therapy;
* Targeted therapy.

Surgery

Surgery is often the first treatment started. It is used to remove the cancerous tumor. In the case of breast cancer, it is called mastectomy. Is partial mastectomy or segmental (part of the breast is removed) or total (the entire breast is removed). It adds almost always surgery to the lymph nodes in the armpit. The type of mastectomy based inter alia on the size of the tumor, its type and location in the breast. The preference of women is also taken into account.

* Partial mastectomy or lumpectomy. The surgeon removes the cancerous tissue (tumor) and a bit of healthy tissue around the tumor. It is also called breast conserving surgery.
* Total mastectomy. The breast is completely removed: the mammary glands, fat tissue, the nipple and skin. We chose it when it is not possible to make a partial mastectomy. This is done in about 20% to 25% of cases of breast cancer. As appropriate, breast reconstruction can be performed at the same time as the mastectomy or at a later time.
* Surgery to lymph nodes. To determine the stage of the disease and determine the best treatment after surgery, it is almost always essential to know whether the cancer has spread to lymph nodes in the armpit on the affected side. These nodes drain the lymph fluid that flows in the breast. This can be done either by removing only the first node of this chain (this is called a biopsy of the sentinel node or) or by removing the whole chain. The removal sometimes causes complications such as lymphedema in an arm (affected side). Lymphedema is an accumulation of lymphatic fluid. It is caused by the disruption of normal drainage pathways. It is rare if it only removes the sentinel node. To learn more about its prevention and treatment.

Breast And Cervical Cancer Prevention

Published on Apr 07 2010, in the categories: Preventive measures

Some causes,risks and prevention methods that will help you combat and diagnose breast cancer

The consumption of alcohol. Over consumption of alcohol, the greater the risk of breast cancer increases, regardless of the type of alcohol consumed. This fact has been observed in several epidemiological studies, with premenopausal women.
<-336x280 Large Rectangle - center->
* Taking estrogen. Some studies show that oral contraceptives (the pill) increases slightly the risk of breast cancer among women who use them for over 4 years. This risk is however more observable 10 years after stopping use of the contraceptive pill. Further studies on the subject have found no link between the pill and breast cancer. However, carriers of a BRCA mutation decreases the risk of ovarian cancer by taking birth control pills.
breast-and-cervical-cancer-prevention1

Furthermore, hormone replacement therapy at menopause, which combines estrogen and progesterone, increases slightly the risk of breast cancer if taken for more than 5 years. Five years after stopping hormone therapy, this increased risk is practically visible. In the case of use of HRT for less than 5 years, the risk of breast cancer is not changed. * Exposure to carcinogenic chemicals. Being in contact with chemicals in the environment (organochlorine pesticides (DDT), parabens, etc..) Could contribute to the formation of breast cancer. The cause and effect is very difficult to establish.



Psychological

The role of the psychological state in the development of cancer is controversial. Some personality traits have been associated in studies at an increased risk of cancer. Other studies, however came to contradict this hypothesis.
breast-and-cervical-cancer-prevention-21

Screening Measures

These measures are designed to detect cancer as early as possible in order to halt its progression and, if possible, to cure.

Observation of any anomaly. Be on the lookout for any changes in breast lump, discharge, nipple retraction, pain, etc.. To do this, feel and look their breasts regularly. Self-breast exams no longer recommended. However, we must remain attentive to changes that may occur to the breasts.

Examination by a professional. The clinical breast examination by a doctor detects a mass not perceived by the woman or not visible on mammography.

Mammography. . Its effectiveness in reducing mortality in this population group is supported by studies. Apart from this age group, the need for testing varies from one woman to another, according to his personal risk factors. Should be discussed with your doctor. For women over 69 years, it is often recommended to continue mammography at regular intervals. Again, it is better to discuss with her doctor.

Other tests are sometimes offered to women at high risk due to genetic predispositions.

Basic preventive measures

Good lifestyle habits (exercise, healthy diet with enough fruit and vegetables, quitting smoking, moderate alcohol consumption, etc..) And maintaining a healthy weight to help reduce the risk of several types of cancer including breast cancer.



Of course, the fight against cancer requires not only individual actions, but also collective action: reducing the presence of chemicals in household products, reduce use of chemical pesticides, equip cities to promote the activity physics, etc..

Breast And Cervical Cancer Prevention

Published on Apr 07 2010, in the categories: Preventive measures

This is some info that hopefully will help you detect and prevent breast cancer.

* A lump in your breast, whether fixed or mobile. This is the most common symptom for women and men.
Note. Most breast lumps detected are not cancerous, however.
* The spontaneous discharge from the nipple.
* A nipple retraction (the nipple is turned inward).
* A change in appearance of the skin of a breast thickening or hardening , unusual redness, heat, change ) of the skin around the nipple.
* An unusual change in size or shape of a breast, hollow (retraction of the skin) or protrusion (bulging).
<-336x280 Large Rectangle - center->
Several factors can influence breast tissue and changing the appearance of the breast: pregnancy, menstrual cycle, a breast cyst, infection, etc..
People at risk
top
breast-and-cervical-cancer-prevention

A number of non-modifiable increase the risk of being diagnosed with cancer of the breast.

These elements may allow doctors to determine who might benefit most from screening and preventive measures.

Key elements of risk

* Female. Less than 1% of cases of breast cancer occur in men, and they usually have more than 60 years.
* Age. The disease rarely affects women under 30 years. About 85% of cases occur 50 years . The more a woman's age, the risk of suffering from breast cancer increases.
* Family history. Having a mother, sister or daughter with cancer of breast or ovarian cancer increases the risk of being infected. 5% to 10% of breast cancers are caused by an abnormality transmitted by heredity. The main susceptibility genes for breast cancer (and ovarian) are named BRCA1 and BRCA2. Normally, these genes protect against cancer. If they are defective, they can no longer fulfill their duties. There are tests to see if a woman from a family at risk is itself carries a mutation in one of these genes.
* Track Record staff. Having already had cancer in one breast increases the risk of a second cancer is formed.
* Have an injury risk to the breast (diagnosed in a biopsy). Women who have an injury risk, such as atypical ductal epithelial hyperplasia or lobular carcinoma in situ, are more likely to suffer from breast cancer one day.
Note. Note that within the cyst is not an injury risk. It does not increase the risk of breast cancer.
breast-and-cervical-cancer-prevention-2

Other elements of risk

* Salaries of radiotherapy. We know that women who have undergone high-dose radiation to the chest (X-rays of high intensity) are more likely to be suffering from breast cancer, especially if radiation has been over the age 30.
* Nulliparity or late pregnancy. The fact of not having children or having given birth only after the age of


30 years.
* Increased exposure to natural estrogens. The early onset of first menstruation (before age 12 years) or late menopause (after age 55 years).

Risk Factors


As part of studies, following modifiable factors were associated with a higher risk of breast cancer. Note however, that breast cancer can form in the absence of all these risk factors.

* Being overweight or obese. Women over 50 who are obese are more at risk than women of the same age whose BMI indicates normal weight. According to Health Canada, even a small excess of weight (5 kg or 11 lbs or more) is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, especially after the menopause.
* Lack of physical activity. Women are more physically active low risk.

Prevention Of Cervical Cancer

Published on Mar 20 2010, in the categories: Preventive measures

Introduction
In gynecological cancers, means more particularly the 3 following conditions:

* Cancer of the endometrium
* Cancer of the cervix
* Cancer of the ovary.
<-336x280 Large Rectangle - center->
Cancer of the cervix, with the breast is the most common cancers in women. It kills around 300 000 women each year worldwide. Yet this disease is likely to cure in 100% of cases if diagnosed early. The real battle lies in an effective organization for testing.

Anatomy
The cervix is shaped like a truncated cone in the vagina. It is accessible to sight and touch.

In its center, leads the cervical canal which joins the uterus.
Causes
Cancer of the cervix is closely linked to sexual behavior and sexually transmitted infections by certain types of viruses.
prevention-of-cervical-cancer

The risk factors are mainly:

* First sexual intercourse at a young age,
* Multiple partners,
* Aging
* Infection with human papillomavirus (HPV)
* Smoking.



Symptoms
It is often abnormal vaginal bleeding or abnormal vaginal discharge.

These symptoms occur spontaneously during or smear during sexual intercourse.
Prevention
The smear is the best prevention.
prevention-of-cervical-cancer-2

This test should be performed systematically and 1 times per year, especially by women sexually active or over the age of 18.

Indeed, the precancerous lesions are usually insidious and often give no symptoms.

The smear is a test simple, effective and painless. It involves removing cells from the cervix so that they are examined under a microscope. Thus, it is possible to detect early abnormal cells.

There are two main forms of cancer of the cervix uteri:

- Squamous cell carcinoma of the ectocervix (outer collar)

- Adenocarcinoma often affecting the junction between the external and internal collar.

There is also a new test for HPV or HPV by sampling cervical cells. This virus is transmitted sexually and also promotes the development of cervical cancer.


Treatments
The treatment of cervical cancer of the uterus depends on the stage of disease progression, the tumor size, age of the patient's overall health and his desire to preserve her fertility.

The earliest form of cervical cancer is carcinoma in situ (stage 0). This cancer is noninvasive and can be treated using various techniques such as:

* Cryotherapy (destruction by cold),
* Conization (removal of the cervix with a cone shaped piece)
* Laser treatment,
* Occasionally hysterectomy (removal of the uterus in its entirety).

At stage 1, the tumor invades surrounding healthy tissue but does not exceed the cervix.

In this case, the choice of treatment options is as follows:

* Hysterectomy,
* Conization,
* The internal or external radiation therapy (more rarely).

At stage 2, cancer has spread beyond the cervix but remains localized in the pelvic region.

Here, the choice of treatment includes:

* An internal or external radiation therapy (brachytherapy)
* Or a hysterectomy with removal of the fallopian tubes, ovaries and lymph. This surgery may be preceded or followed by radiotherapy or brachytherapy.

At stage 3, cancer has invaded tissues throughout the pelvic region. Surgery is possible, then, an internal or external radiotherapy combined with chemotherapy.

Finally, stage 4 cancer has spread to other parts of the body and is then heavier treatment combining radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

Vaccine Against Cervical Cancer

Published on Mar 18 2010, in the categories: Preventive measures

Concerns grow over the long term effects of vaccines antipapillomavirus for teenagers.

A girl is vaccinated against human papillomavirus to Dallas in 2007.
<-336x280 Large Rectangle - center->
This week, we heard a lot about vaccines,. But few of Gardasil, the vaccine should protect against cancer of the cervix in which the growing concern abroad.
In 2008, Gardasil, produced in Europe by Sanofi Pasteur MSD, and its competitor Cervarix (produced by GlaxoSmithKline, which holds a minor share of the market), cost 146 million euros for health insurance for $ 1.65 million vaccinations . According to several foreign research organizations, its long-term benefits have not yet demonstrated. An association of U.S. consumers even denounces significant side effects. A visitor alerted us to this.
vaccine-against-cervical-cancer1

Sanofi Pasteur MSD has created a site "educational" aptly called "pass the info" with sound and video. Pretty women and girls make you want to be vaccinated in the second. Irresistible spot past the French TV during the placing on the market in 2007, explaining to mothers that if they "care about the future of their daughter, they can protect them from the age of 14 years against some virus transmitted by sexual contact with Gardasil. (See Video)

Asked about the doubts surrounding Gardasil, the marketing company responded is pleased to respond:

"It is not marketing, but advertising for a vaccine recommended by the government, distributed in 104 countries and with no severe adverse effect was demonstrated. "

False advertising?

Booklets distributed in pharmacies and reproduced on the promotional site of Gardasil stress on the progression of cervical cancer of the uterus: in 2005 more than 3,000 new cases per year have been detected and is the second most common cancer among women under 44 years.
vaccine-against-cervical-cancer-21

The communication is organized so that the public tends to remember that Gardasil protects against cervical cancer. In fact, it protects against four types of human papillomavirus involved in 70% of these cancers. If, as stated in the promotional site of the vaccine, almost 70% of women are infected with human papillomavirus during their lives, very few of them develop this cancer and the vaccine does not protect against injuries
existing.
The smear is not it more effective to fight against cervical cancer?

Martin Winckler, physician and writer, notes that in Scandinavia, where the smear is mandatory, cancer of the cervix uteri has virtually disappeared. The author of La Maladie de Sachs calls into question the "important medical service" that Gardasil is supposed to make the sheet as "good use of the drug" published by the High Authority of Health:

"We make Gardasil as a public health issue is heinous. This would be true if it was a very common cancer and there was no other way to prevent it. Now there are only 1500 deaths per year associated with this cancer. "

Certainly, all documents released to the public following the recommendation of the AFSSAPS, the French agency for safety of health products, that we must continue to detect cervical cancer smear. But information goes obviously wrong. What regrets Martin Winckler:

"All the money spent on this vaccine is not made in the
Awareness smear. Only 50% of women are screened regularly, mainly because too few GPs practice smear. "

What is known about side effects?

In February, two Spanish girls have lost consciousness shortly after receiving an injection of Gardasil. Afssaps concluded that a relationship of cause and effect with vaccination was "very unlikely" and recommended the continuation of the vaccination. In Spain, a petition requesting a moratorium on the use of Gardasil in the name of defending the public good "has collected 8745 signatures.

A American Association has also requested an investigation by the Department of Health. Because the case is growing in the United States, where a family suggests that 29 unexplained deaths were attributable to Gardasil and the parents of alleged victims organized. The short film released by the Institute of Medical Sciences Baltimore relays these fears.


Vaccine Against Cervical Cancer

Published on Mar 18 2010, in the categories: Preventive measures

Cancer of the cervix: a vaccine available!

In western European countries, cancer of the cervix is responsible each year a thousand deaths. The disease develops from precancerous lesions called caused by certain viruses. But now, a vaccine offers protection over the long term against the most harmful of these intruders.
<-336x280 Large Rectangle - center->
Two vaccines, Gardasil developed by Merck and Sanofi-Pasteur MSD and Cervarix from GSK laboratories now offer protection against cancer of the cervix. Faced with this disease that affects 500 000 women each year worldwide, these results represent a real hope.
vaccine-against-cervical-cancer

Hunting papillomavirus

Vaccine - Cancer of the cervix has different types of viruses, the family of human papillomavirus (HPV) are the cause of cervical cancer of the uterus. Today, the Pap test (Pap smear) can detect these infections, sexually transmitted in most cases remain hidden or are benign. But these infections can also develop into precancerous lesions, and if they are not treated, cancer of the cervix uteri. There are every year and 258 000 deaths worldwide, including 1 000. Papillomaviruses present in 80% cases do not have the same carcinogenic.The most harmful is undoubtedly that of type 16 (HPV-16), implicated in 50 to 60% of cancers of col1. Comes second, HPV-18 which is responsible for 10% of cancers. Conversely, the risk of cancer among women not infected is virtually nil.

Only downside to the strategy of Pap smear screening, it involves a large number of reviews that benefit only a minority. Indeed, a maximum of 3% of women with HPV will develop cancer. Thus the development of an effective vaccine could soon lead to another prevention strategy.
A 100% protection
vaccine-against-cervical-cancer-2

On September 20, 2006, the vaccine Gardasil received its European approval for placing on the market. This vaccine protects against human papillomavirus types 6, 11, 16 and 18 (HPV 6 and 11 cause 90% of genital warts, sexually transmitted infections better known under the name of cockscomb).
Several studies have measured the effectiveness of the vaccine, the principal has involved more than 12 000 women aged 16 to 26 years (live 13 different countries) who were not infected by the virus. Half received three doses of the vaccine and half received a placebo (inactive drug).After 17 months of follow-up, the first group showed no pre-cancerous lesions while they were 21 in the second group. "These are fundamentals, which show that vaccination with Gardasil helps prevent precancerous lesions and cancers of non-invasive cervical cancer caused by HPV 16 and 18," said Laura Koutsky, then, the principal investigator of the group Research on HPV at Washington University in Seattle.
No vaccinations have been discontinued because of side effects of the vaccine. Although side effects were more frequent among women who received Gardasil than in those who received placebo, it was mostly a slight discomfort at the injection site. These results confirm previous studies conducted on a smaller number of women.