Men's Health Week from a Cancer Perspective

June 10-16 is National Men's Health Week 

The focus of this week is awareness of preventable health issues and to promote early detection and treatment among males.  Here is some information regarding cancer occurrences in men in the United States.  

Prostate cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers among men.  Incidence rates among African-American men are 70% higher than white men.  There are just fewer than 30,000 deaths each year due to prostate cancer, making it the second leading cause of cancer death in men. Lung cancer is the number one cancer killer of both men and women.  Early-staged prostate cancer has no warning signs or symptoms, while more advanced-disease men may experience weakened or interrupted urine flow, the inability to urinate, difficulty starting or stopping,  frequency of urination especially during the night, blood in the urine, pain or burning  with urination.      

Risk factors include:  Increasing age, African-American ancestry, and a family history of the disease.

60% of all men diagnosed are 65 years old and older

97% of all prostate cancers occur in men aged 50 and older

African-American men and Jamaican men of African descent have the highest documented prostate cancer incidence.

Recent studies suggest that a diet high in processed meat and dairy products may be a risk factor. Obesity also appears to be a risk factor in aggressive prostate cancer.

According to the American Cancer Society, at this time there is insufficient data to recommend FOR OR AGAINST routine testing for prostate cancer for early prostate cancer detection by using the PSA test.

The American Cancer Society does recommend that beginning at age 50 men who are at average risk of prostate cancer and have a life expectancy of at least 10 years receive information about the potential benefits and known limitations associated with testing for early detection and have the opportunity to make an informed decision based on their personal values and preferences.  Men at high risk of developing prostate cancer (African-American men or men with several close family members diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 65) should have this discussion with their health care provider starting at age 40.

Bottom line defense against prostate: 

• Watch your intake of processed foods including red meat and dairy products. 
• Keep your weight in check.  
• TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT YOUR FAMILY HISTORY. 

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in men and is most commonly found in individuals age 50 and older.  Early-stage colorectal cancer typically does not show any symptoms, so screening is usually necessary to detect the disease in its early stages.  Again, the risk increases with age, and according to the American Cancer Society, 90% of cases are diagnosed individuals age 50 and older.  Modifiable risk factors include:  obesity, physical inactivity, diets high in red or processed meat, alcohol consumption, long-term smoking, and possibly very low intake of fruits and vegetables.  Family history of colorectal cancer and/or polyps, a personal history of chronic inflammatory bowel disease, and certain inherited genetic conditions also increase risk.  

In 2008, the American Cancer Society and other organizations worked to release updated colorectal cancer screening guidelines, which include a number of different screening options. They recommend that individuals discuss these options with their general physician and begin screening once they have reached age 50.  

If you would like more information regarding prostate cancer screening and the benefits and limitations associated with early detection, please contact Sandy Prince, MS, CHES at Hope Cancer Resources at sandy.prince@hopecancerresources.org or 479-361-5847. This free service is provided in part by funding from: The Cancer Challenge, The Walker Family Foundation and The Hope Cancer Resources Foundation, and Arkansas Cancer Coalition.

Blue Ribbon Info

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, as well as National Social Worker Appreciation Month. Both subjects are cause for celebration, but for different reasons of course...

Colorectal cancer incidences have been decreasing over the last two decades, and is now listed as the third most common cancer in men and women, where it used to rank in the number two spot. Screening tests have increased in availability and accessibility, and have played a significant role in this change.

Specifically, colorectal cancer screening tests that allow for the detection and removal of polyps have been found to be highly effective in preventing cancer. These polyps - whether or not they are cancerous upon removal - have been shown in research to eventually progress into colon cancer. Removing them when they are first seen has become standard procedure and is saving lives.

Colorectal cancer is difficult to detect in early stages without the aid of a test such as the colonoscopy, since it doesn't typically show any distinct symptoms. Advanced disease can be indicated by rectal bleeding, blood in the stool, a change in bowel habits, cramping pain in the lower abdomen, decreased appetite, or weight loss. In some cases, loss of blood caused by the cancer can lead to anemia which causes its own symptoms such as weakness and fatigue. In recent years, there has been an increase in colorectal cancer diagnoses in individuals under fifty years of age, so any of these symptoms in someone in that age bracket should cause enough concern to warrant a visit to the doctor for screening.

Current recommendations for colon cancer screening say to begin at age 50 for anyone at average risk for developing the disease. Recommendations on type of test and time interval changed in 2008 based on the American Cancer Society's collaboration with several other organizations. For the breakdown of the new recommendations click here.

Social Workers are the life-blood of many non-profit organizations - especially those, like Hope Cancer Resources, that provide services to people in the community. Not only do our social workers provide navigation for cancer patients who request assistance from us, but they also network into the community to help a patient find assistance that is not within the scope of our organization's mission.

Our services are provided to patients who are going through one of the most difficult times of their lives - cancer treatment. Not only can the disease and the treatment drain an individual's body of strength and stamina, but the emotional toll it takes on someone who has trouble finding the light at the end of the tunnel can be just as devastating. Our social workers address patients' emotional needs instantly, the very first time they meet with patients, and for some patients that's one of the most important services they receive: the providing of hope. Perhaps these quotes from grateful patients say it best:

"We thank you so very much for being there for Fred when we didn't think we had any hope." -- MSW

"I do not have the words to express how much you have meant to me and my family. Not only have you helped us financially, but you have also met so many emotional needs. Thank you does not seem like enough, but it is all I know to say."  -- KT

"Your generous assistance is so appreciated. Your help will not only help me with expenses, but help alleviate some of the stress and tension caused by such worries. Thank goodness for organizations like yours, ... literally saving patients from some of the stresses that can hinder recovery. Thank you!"  -- RR

We are proud of the work our social workers do every day to support cancer patients in Northwest Arkansas, and we honor all the social workers doing their work throughout the country. Take a minute to thank a social worker you know this week... you might meet one at your child's school, at the hospital, at the nursing home, at the local food bank or shelter, or even at a church or public service organization office. They're all doing great work every day.

Join us for the Battle!!

We're taking it to the streets! Our annual Heather Ridley-Fleeman Battle for Hope fundraising event is May 5th - only a few weeks away - and we want you to join us!

The Heather Ridley-Fleeman Battle for Hope was created by the family and friends of a lovely young woman who fought a brave battle of her own. She was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in her 20s, and lost her fight at the age of 28. The importance of early detection, knowledge of risk factors, and understanding of symptoms is a major part of this event that raises money to support Hope Cancer Resources' Save-A-Life program. 

We shared some info recently on colorectal cancer, including the good news that colonoscopies are saving lives. The bad news is, not everyone is able to afford a colonoscopy. Some insurance plans will not cover the procedure in individuals under the age of 50 (when regular colonoscopies for people at average risk are recommended to begin). But even with insurance coverage, a co-pay can amount to several hundred dollars.

Our Save-A-Life program provides assistance for screening and diagnostic tests, including colonoscopies and other colorectal-associated procedures, for uninsured and under-insured individuals in Northwest Arkansas with a physician's referral. These tests provide access to early detection, which offers a better chance for a cure should cancer be diagnosed. Without our assistance, some patients would not be able to get the tests they need in a timely manner, putting them at risk for a late-stage diagnosis with a lower chance for successful treatment.

Registration for the Battle for Hope is available online through the website. You can register yourself, or sign up as a member of a team to run (10k or 5k) or walk (5k or 1 mile). But if none of those options are appealing (we know not everyone is eager to get up early on a Saturday morning) you can still help by purchasing raffle tickets or tribute signs. The signs will line the courses on race day in honor or in memory of loved ones who have fought or are fighting cancer. Raffle tickets will give you a chance to win some very nice prizes - including a watch from Blakeman's Fine Jewelers, tickets to a show at Walton Arts Center, and gift baskets from local businesses. Best of all, you don't have to be present to win! A list of all the businesses donating prizes and raffle items for the event is located on the race website here, and our awesome event sponsors are here.

The deadline for signing up your team or purchasing tribute signs is April 20th - so don't delay! The first 400 to register will also receive a goody bag containing some nice coupons and freebies - and while the race shirt is always free with registration, sizes are limited after the 20th.

We hope to see you on May 5th!

March Colon Cancer Awareness

For many years, we have been spreading the word about colon cancer screenings and their potential to save lives. Recently, our claims were backed up in the New England Journal of Medicine. According to an article printed in the New York Times, the results of a research study show a correlation between colonoscopies with polyp removal and a 53% reduction in deaths from the disease. The five-year survival rate for colon cancer found in an early, localized stage is 90%. Now, we just have to convince more people to get screened.

Colon cancer (also called colorectal cancer) is the third most common cancer in both men and women as well as the third most deadly. While incidence rates have been decreasing for most of the past twenty years (colon cancer used to be the number two cancer killer), increased awareness and prevention education is still vital because early stages of the disease do not typically show any symptoms. And, while the number of total diagnoses has been declining, the number of younger adults being diagnosed has been on the rise. Knowing your risks, the symptoms, and how to get screened in a timely manner is potentially life-saving knowledge.

"What are my risks?"
The biggest risk of colon cancer is associated with age. According to the American Cancer Society, 91% of cases are diagnosed in people 50 years of age and older. Other medical or hereditary factors that increase your risk include a family history of the disease, a personal history of other colon-related diseases such as chronic inflammatory bowel disease, and certain inherited genetic conditions. Studies have also found that people with type-2 diabetes are at higher risk.

Non-medical, and easily modifiable risks include obesity, physical inactivity, a diet high in red or processed meats, alcohol consumption, long-term smoking, and possibly very low intake of fruits and vegetables. Consumption of milk and calcium and higher blood levels of vitamin D appear to decrease colorectal cancer risk in research studies.

"What are the symptoms?"
As we mentioned before, early stages of colon cancer typically do not show any symptoms, which is why screenings are so important. More advanced stages of the disease may cause rectal bleeding, blood in the stool, a change in bowel habits, and cramping pain in the lower abdomen. In some cases, anemia can result from blood loss within the bowel, which would cause symptoms such as weakness and excessive fatigue.

Recommendations:
Beginning at age 50, your doctor should start encouraging you to get a colonoscopy. If the results show no polyps or areas of interest, you should plan to schedule another screening in ten years unless you have risk factors that would suggest more frequent follow up screenings. Discuss your personal follow up plans with your physician.

Another screening option is the Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) that can be done at home in the privacy of your own bathroom. Throughout the month of March we have FOBT kits available at no cost. Simply stop by our office at 5835 W. Sunset in Springdale to pick one up, and follow the directions on the package.

If you experience any of the symptoms listed above in yourself or your loved ones, you should pursue evaluation by a medical professional as soon as possible. If your doctor prescribes a screening test and you are unable to pay for one, contact our Save-A-Life program coordinator, Christina Bostian, for information on how to apply for assistance from Hope Cancer Resources. We're here for Northwest Arkansas with support for the journey and education for life. 

Get ready to RUN!

Or walk, if that's your preference... we don't really mind. We just want you to JOIN US for the 7th Annual Heather Ridley-Fleeman Battle for Hope coming up May 7th! We'll be raising awareness of the need for early detection and regular screening for colorectal cancer, and raising funds for the patient services and community education programs of Hope Cancer Resources. Colon cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in the U.S., and one of the most preventable - but unfortunately it is too often detected in later stages. Approximately 49,380 people will die from colorectal cancer this year. Help us get the word out! Read our previous post about the disease and share it with everyone you know!

We know there are a lot of races and walks and other outdoor events going on this time of year in Northwest Arkansas. We also know there are a lot of charities and non-profits that are asking you to join them to support their particular cause. But we hope you will give us one Saturday morning in May. Let us share a little story to demonstrate what happens to the money we raise...

Last year we received a call from a single mother of a 15 month old baby. The baby had been diagnosed with cancer and the mother had been taking her to Little Rock for treatments. The day that she called us she had been preparing to leave for an appointment when she discovered her car would not start. She quickly contacted a repair shop and was told that they could fix the problem, but the part would have to be ordered. Desperate to get her baby to her appointment, she called us. We helped the mother rent a car for the trip to Little Rock, and paid for fuel as well.

A few weeks later the mother called again to ask for assistance paying a utility bill. Because of the time she had taken off work to care for her daughter she had lost wages and was having trouble paying all of her bills that month. We helped her with the utility bill, and helped this mother get her child a little bit closer to recovery.

Sometimes the assistance required by a patient is complicated and time-consuming. Other times, it's as simple as handing them a card with our contact information on it. But no matter the level of assistance we are providing, we know that our patients are thankful that they found us. Odds are you have had some kind of experience with cancer. Either you've been a patient, or someone you care about has been. For those people, and even for those you don't know personally, we hope you'll join us to walk or run to help provide cancer assistance and education in our communities. Perhaps Mr. Smith said it best when he told our social worker "You guys have given me hope."

Help us give hope to cancer patients in Northwest Arkansas.

Prevention and Early Detection Save Lives!!

We've been talking a lot lately about prevention and early detection being important keys to reducing your risk for cancers of any type, but this month we're backing up that talk with action! We are providing free colon cancer screening kits to anyone in Northwest Arkansas who asks for one, so come by to pick one up! In fact, be a true friend and get one for everyone you know. Sure, that sounds a little weird, if not downright awkward... handing out colon screening kits isn't something you usually do after a great session of Zumba with the girls or a couple of rounds of golf with the guys. But we're talking about a cancer that kills approximately 50,000 Americans each year. 

Here are a few myths from the American Cancer Society about colorectal cancer that might make it easier to consider a screening:

Myth: Colorectal cancer is a man's disease. 

Truth: Colorectal cancer is just as common among women as men. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control, it is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in the U.S. - number 3 on the lists for both men and women.

Myth: Colorectal cancer cannot be prevented.

Truth: In many cases colorectal cancer can be prevented. Colorectal cancer almost always starts with a small growth called a polyp. If the polyp is found early, doctors can remove it and stop colorectal cancer before it starts. These tests find polyps: double contrast barium enema, flexible sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, or CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy).

To help lower your chances of getting colorectal cancer:

• Get to and stay at a healthy weight.
• Be physically active.
• Limit the amount of alcohol you drink.
• Eat a diet with a lot of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and less red or processed meat.

Myth: African Americans are not at risk for colorectal cancer.

Truth: African-American men and women are diagnosed with and die from colorectal cancer at higher rates than men and women of any other U.S. racial or ethnic group. The reason for this is not yet understood.

Myth: It's better not to get tested for colorectal cancer because it's deadly anyway.

Truth: Colorectal cancer is often highly treatable. If it is found and treated early (while it is small and before it has spread), the 5-year survival rate is about 90%. But because many people are not getting tested, only about 4 out of 10 are diagnosed at this early stage when treatment is most likely to be successful.

The screening kits we have available are easy to use, and did we mention they're FREE??

And just as a reminder, here's where we talk about signs and symptoms of colon cancer. No matter your age, if you are experiencing any of these please talk to your doctor and get screened. Younger people are often diagnosed in later stages of the disease just because their symptoms were mis-diagnosed. You owe it to yourself and the people who love you to do what you can to prevent cancer.

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month!

Colon cancer is probably not the most popular lunchtime topic for you and your co-workers. Nor is it likely that you'll be chatting about fecal blood tests with your neighbor as you trim your lilac bushes. It's an uncomfortable subject due in part to the manner in which it's detected. Subjects involving bodily functions are uncomfortable to discuss with medical professionals - let alone people you see more than once a year while wearing more than a couple of yards of cotton fabric.

Perhaps it's the reluctance we have about discussing it that makes colon cancer the #2 cancer killer in the United States - second only to lung cancer. In fact, there are approximately 150,000 new cases diagnosed every year in this country, with over 50,000 deaths resulting. 


Do we have your attention yet? 

Here are a few more facts we've collected. Feel free to throw them around while chatting with your friends... they may look at you funny, but if it helps even one of them catch colorectal cancer early - it will be worth the risk of being talked about behind your back or uninvited to happy-hour for a couple of weeks, we promise.

• The lifetime risk for an American to get CRC is 1 in 19 for both men and women.
• Annual screening with a proven Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) can lead to the detection and removal of polyps and reduce the risk of getting CRC by 20%.
• Annual screeting by FOBT can help reduce the number of deaths from CRC by 15-33%.
• The five-year survival rate from CRC is about 90% when the disease is detected early, compared to only 11% when it is detected in a later stage.
• Annual screening with a proven FOBT can detect 90% of CRC cases in average risk individuals; i.e., those who are age 50 and older and have no symptoms.  

To highlight the preventable nature of this disease, we are giving away free screening kits at Hope Cancer Resources throughout the month of March. You can come by our office in Springdale, Arkansas, or you can contact Rebekah Billingsley, our Community Cancer Education Coordinator, to request a kit to be mailed to you. Rebekah can also provide more information about screenings we provide through our Community Outreach Programs. 

Additional information about colorectal cancer can be found at one of these websites: 
The Colon Cancer Alliance
American College of Gastroenterology
Johns Hopkins Colon Cancer Information
The Colon Club

2009 Heather Ridley-Fleeman Battle for HOPE

Another Battle for HOPE, another weekend of crazy spring weather! Last year our runners, walkers and volunteers braved freezing temperatures to show their support for HOPE and the need for education and awareness of colon cancer prevention methods, this year it was pouring rain.

After a last-minute flurry of registrations, Outdoor Cap won the prize for Largest Team with 41 participants, narrowly beating out Team Frito Flash with 38. As the largest team, Outdoor Cap will receive a cookout at their office compliments of Signature Bank of Bentonville.

Geraldine Mansch won the Top Fundraiser prize, and her Team Hodge Podge will celebrate raising the most money with free passes to bowl at Fast Lane Entertainment in Rogers.

Please take a look at all the generous sponsors for this year's event that made it all possible.

Even with the lousy economy and the nasty weather we raised just over $33,000.00 to be used locally to support HOPE's patient assistance programs. We offer financial and emotional assistance to people living or being treated for cancer in Northwest Arkansas. More information can be found at our website.

Thanks to all of our volunteers for doing such a GREAT job in the rain! And special thanks to our event steering committee - without them, this event would never happen:

Kris Addington

Trent Addington

Tiffany Baird

Missy Brewer

Tara Goates

Laurie Marshall

Shawn Mayfield

Mandy Silberstein

Rick Bostian

Kim Tisdale

Mark your calendars - next year's date is May 1, 2010!!