It has been known since 1948 that cellular building blocks or nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) can be found circulating in the blood stream. Only recently has circulating cell–free DNA been able to identify cancers. This obtained through a blood sample. It has been called both “blood biopsy” and “liquid biopsy.”
Small strands of nucleic acids break off from a chromosome. These can now be “extracted” and, at times, identified as malignancies. Through advanced techniques, multiple cancer cell types have been found. A limited list of cancers that might benefit from a noninvasive “liquid biopsy “would be: prostate, cervix, ovary, uterus, rectal, pancreas, head and neck cancer, esophagus, lung cancers, and breast.
There is no acceptable “alternative medicine”. In oncology, lack of medical care can be lethal. There are many cancer facilities that offer complementary medicine (which can include diet, nutritional supplements, acupuncture, exercise and medication) as part of the oncology therapy. The combination of complementary and traditional medicine is now called integrative medicine.
Diet and nutritional supplements do not “guarantee” success. Good nutrition and satisfactory caloric intake is important. If taken in excessive doses, some nutritional or vitamin supplements can result in profound complications. Other supplements, such as antioxidants, can result in tumor growth. Other supplements can interfere with chemotherapy.
Lee Newcomer recently wrote a most provocative article in the Journal of Clinical Oncology (May 10, 2015). A friend of his, “John,” was most perplexed by the treatment recommendations for his wife, “Jan.” The recommendation was for chemotherapy after surgery as well as radiation to follow. Both of them did Internet research. They both agreed that the radiation should be undertaken; however, they had questions as to whether or not the chemotherapy was required.
They received a second opinion from a major cancer center. The consulting physician explained to them that chemotherapy would provide some benefit. However, the doctor also told them “you have nothing to lose.”
“How do I know that the hospital I select for cancer treatment is a good choice?”
Do your homework and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Marketing campaigns may appeal on an emotional level with “Miraculous!” testimonials, and they may focus on the center’s state of the art equipment. You should also look for quality assurances!
A good cancer treatment center will offer services, such as Cancer Screening Programs…
“How do I know that the hospital I select for cancer treatment is a good choice?”
Do your homework and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Marketing campaigns may appeal on an emotional level with “Miraculous!” testimonials, and they may focus on the center’s state of the art equipment. You should also look for quality assurances!
A good cancer treatment center will offer services, such as Cancer Screening Programs…
Dr. Terry Kraus
Oncology Consulting Services, LLC
(504) 717-3237
111 Veterans Memorial Blvd.
Suite 403
Metairie, LA 70005