Lifestyle and cancer research updates November 2015

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NCRI conference highlight benefits of exercise for cancer patients

The National Cancer Research Institute Conference this year included a major session highlighting the benefits of physical activity for patients with cancer. Prof Rob Thomas chaired the session, summarised the world literature and described the biochemical changes which occur in the body after exercise (view slides). Dr Stacey Kenfield from California presented the latest data from the famous Health Professionals Follow Up Study - more about exercise and cancer

WHO guidelines on processed meats

Followers of this news letter will know that the carcinogenic risk of processed meats has been know for years. It is only that the evidence from published studies has reached such high levels that the WHO feel obliged to issue a statement. Obviously we should try to reduce our processed meat intake and have vegetable only meals 3-4 times a week but the most important factor is whether nature's antidotes to carcinogens (Polyphenols) are eaten at the same time - download paper free about polyphenols

Study shows obesity and sedentary lifestyle still common after cancer

A study presented by Dorothy Yang form Cambridge University at the NCRI conference Liverpool showed that, in a cross sectional survey, only 11% of patients after cancer exercised sufficiently to benefit from its anti-cancer effects. Further more 68% of patients were classed as overweight or obese. Disappointingly this does not appear to changed over the last 4 years - view slides of presentation

Chemo brain occurs in 25% after bowel cancer - even without chemo!

A study looking at cognitive function after colon cancer confirms a significant drop when measured at 1 year - interestingly though there was no difference in those who had chemotherapy or not. The study from Australia involved 289 patients half of whom received adjuvant chemotherapy - read more

More concerns about parabens in cosmetics and shampoos

Xenoestrogens are synthetic compounds that mimic oestrogens by activating estrogen receptors.. Parabens,

known xenoestrogens, are linked with cell proliferation and increased risk of breast cancer in lab studies. Despite this evidence, in the low levels within cosmetics and gels they are generally considered safe. However, a recent study suggests their effects in humans should start at even lower quantities than previously thought - read more

Systemic review high lights evidence for phytochemicals and cancer

A major systemic review, published this month, summarises the evidence for phytochemicals in cancer management. Researchers from London, Switzerland and Cambridge sifted out the most robust laboratory and clinical trials from around the world. It provides a clear classification of phytochemical and polyphenol with biochemical mechanisms of their anti-cancer action. Most importantly, it provides practical guidance on diet and nutritional supplements for practitioners to empower them to have more informed conversations with their patients - download paper free

More evidence that sugary drinks lead to diabetes

Regular consumption of sugary drinks was linked to onset of type 2 diabetes independent of obesity reports a new review from Cambridge University. Processed fruit juices and artificially sweetened drinks didn't appear to be any healthier. The paper, published in the BMJ, looked at 17 studies involving 38,000 cases and found that higher consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages was associated with an 18% increase in incidence of type 2 diabetes. This is concerning as there is a strong link between type 2 diabetes and cancer - read more

Largest nutrition and exercise intervention study - highly successful

A multi-centre trial, involving 692 overweight or obese women with early-stage breast cancer, has demonstrated major benefits for an exercise and nutrition intervention programme. There was a 6% weight reduction at 12 months and a significant improvement in blood pressure. The ENERGY study, co-ordinated from California, dispels myths that behavioural change interventions don't work, and supports national directives such as the Macmillan move more campaign.

Strong correlation between PSA and MRI dynamics in men on Pomi-T

A study presented at MASSC Copenhagen provides further reassurance for men taking the food supplement Pomi-T . In this new study, men who continued Pomi-T long term had 2 high resolution MRI images a year apart. There was a 100% correlation between disease progression on MRI with a rising PSA This data strongly suggests that the PSA effect of Pomi-t correlates with disease on MRI see full poster

Online micro-nutritional testing - optimise your nutritional status

Most top athletes measure their body's essential micro-nutrients to ensure they have the correct nutritional balance for optimal performance. These tests are now available for everyone especially those concerned about or who have survived cancer.

An online micro-nutrient service has been developed by cancernet which measures over 50 of the bodies essential micro-nutrients and anti-cancer enzymes.

The results of the detailed blood test are issued with a bespoke advice programme which empowers the recipient to a diet and lifestyle which corrects deficiencies and lowers excesses to restore optimal nutritional status - read more about micro-nutrient testing

Lifestyle and Cancer - the facts

This latest edition of Lifestyle and Cancer dispells the myths by providing clear evidence based advice, to help readers cope with side effects, speed up recovey and reduce the risk of relapse after cancer Order online

A new scheme is also now available to advocacy groups and hospitals - The publishers are able to supply at cost price to groups who can sell on to members at a discount Contact us about joinng this scheme

Read foreword by Paula Radcliffe

Read free sample chapter - Avoiding carcinogens

Measure and plot your PSA doubling time (PSAdt)

This application is useful for doctors and patients alike as it quickly and accurately calculates the rate of rise of two or more PSA blood measurements over time - more important measurement than an isolated single level.

This is particularly useful for men with prostate cancer managed with Active Surveillance or experiencing a PSA relapse after previous treatments. The PSA doubling time over any period of time is displayed in an easily readable graph so one can accurately see if it is shortening (bad) or lengthening (good) in response to lifestyle changes or oral supplements such as Pomi-T. The graph can be updated with each blood test and the results emailed to your home computer or doctor - read more