HPV and Heart Disease

Several strains of HPV have been known to cause cervical cancer, and now new research suggests that these same types of HPV may also increase your chances of heart disease and/or a stroke without having any other risk factors present. Researchers looked at a survey of 2,450 women between the ages of 20 to 59. Of these group of women, about 45% had some strain of HPV present, and 23% had the cancer causing strain of the virus present (data from self-collected vaginal specimens).

What does this mean? Well for one, the clinical implications are:

• Perhaps the HPV vaccine may also help prevent heart disease
• Physicians should monitor their patients who have cancer causing strains of HPV to potentially prevent having a heart attack or stroke
• Physicians should monitor their patients who have both HPV and cardiovascular disease in an effort to prevent another episode or attack
• More research studies are needed to confirm these findings. This could potentially be another useful way to assess a woman's cardiovascular risk and get younger women to assess their risk for heart disease even earlier.
• Since this study only looked at female subjects, the link between HPV, heart disease and men is still unknown and should also be examined

The researchers of this study believe it may be due to HPV's role in inactivating (shutting down) two tumor suppressing genes p53 and pRb. However at this time, this relationship is still observational and not yet proven to be cause and effect.  

The take home message

• The medical community should take a new look at assessing who is at risk for heart disease - and also the vaccine may be another way to prevent both HPV and heart disease

Sources of Information:

Journal of American College of Cardiology 

Science Daily

WebMD

Radiation and Changes to Your Body

Once diagnosed with cervical cancer your doctor may recommend one of the following to aggressively beat the cancer. Here is some information, along with one of the mujeres personal experience to the subsequent changes in her body.


Radiation Therapy
A frequent treatment option for many cancers. Radiation uses high energy ray to destroy the cancer cell and may be given internally and/or externally. Depending on the kind of cancer and where you received the radiation you will have different side effects. Some side effects take longer than others to show or to go away if they do.

The radiation given to me for the cervix was externally and internally. Doctors tattoo the part of your body where the radiation rays will be given to be precise to hit the tumor and/or cancer cells inside your body. Even though it's precise, there are other organs nearby that can be affected by the radiation. 

Changes in the Body
Cervical cancer patients who receive external or internal radiation therapy may have diarrhea and frequent, uncomfortable urination. It may also affect the gastrointestinal tract. For me I had intestinal bleeding for a long time and depending on what I used to eat it  aggravated the situation. Due to this, the doctor recommended a  colonoscopy to make sure everything was OK and I continue to have them. I loved and still  love Mexican food, but I know that when I eat it, there are consequences to pay. So adios, Senor Burrito! :(

With external radiation it is common to lose hair in the treated area and the skin may be permanent darken or bronze.  Lucky me, no more shaving (that part I loved).

I also had to deal with vaginal atrophy or shrinkage of the vagina and had to use vaginal dilators. Not fun at all while trying to reconnect with your partner. Then if that was not enough I had to deal with the big "M".  Yes, early Menopause. OK you might be saying lucky me no more periods, but putting up with the hot flashes, the mood swings.. I didn't particularly feel that lucky.

New You
These are some of the effects I experienced from the treatments, but everyone is different and other patients may experience these and/or many others.  The scars will always be there either physically or emotionally and it takes awhile to come back and reinvent yourself. It takes time to find the new you and let go of the old one.

Taking Suvivorship to Another Level

Many people have asked me what led me to join the non-profit organization Tamika and Friends, Inc., and if I find it rewarding being the NYC Chapter President of Tamika and Friends..

Tamika Felder and Patti Murillo-Casa

Well, my friend Bianca Laureano, asked me these same questions and others in an interview.  I wanted to share this interview with you so you can get a closer look as to why I joined the movement and what thrives me to help eradicate cervical cancer.

 Interview

 HPV Education, Prevention and Support- Interview with NY Chapter President of Tamika and Friends

HPV and Oral Cancer

Many of us know that HPV is the virus that causes cervical cancer, but did you know that it also can cause oral cancer? New studies indicate that cancer in the upper throat caused by HPV positive tumors, account for the majority of new cases of oropharyngeal cancer. While in the past tobacco and alcohol were the main causes of this type of cancer, the steady rise of oropharyngeal cancer in the past few years may be due to a rise in oral sex.

What we know

• Even if you are not a  smoker or drinker, you can still get oral cancer.
• Oral cancer affects men more than women (4 to 1 respectively).
• Patients with HPV linked oral tumors have better survival odds than those with other forms of this cancer.

What we need more research to get definitive answers

• Is oral sex the only way that this type of cancer being transmitted?
• Does oral HPV clear (leave) the body as many cases of HPV clear the cervix?
• Will the HPV vaccine protect against oral HPV?

 

 Sources of information
Cervical Cancer Fuels Oral Cancer
Oral Cancer Foundation

My Diagnosis Through A Caller ID

Jennifer and Ally

I met Jennifer Larmon, a cervical cancer survivor, at the NYC Walk to Beat the Clock last year, but it wasn't until we did the Revlon walk against women's cancers representing Tamika and Friends, Inc. back in April, that I really got to know her and her family. She is a beautiful young women who stands strong and with determination. She shares her story in the hopes to make a difference and bring awareness about cervical cancer. Jen is a strong believer that we can eradicate cervical cancer and is determined to help to do just that. 

I was amazed to see her family's enormous support, but the one that caught my attention and moved my heart was her little girl, and I must admit, I fell in love with Alyssa.

Ally is such a sweet little girl and immediately became my little friend, so now, I want to pay honor to her mommy. Here is a closer look at Jen's story.

1. How old were you when you got diagnosed and what was your official diagnosis?

On August 11, 2009 I was diagnosed with Stage IBI Adenocarcinoma Cervical Cancer, I was 30 years old.

2. Can you take us back to when your doctor told you had cancer and what went through your mind?

Cervical Cancer Survivors: Jennifer, Patti and Erin

I found out I had cancer from my caller ID, not my doctor. My phone rang and on the caller ID it said, “Cancer Center.” I answered the phone and on the other end was a woman telling me I need to come in for a consultation. “A consultation, for what?” I responded. I knew at that point, but needed to hear it to be 100% sure. 

She then asked me if my doctor had called me. My doctor never called. I was then told, “Oh Jennifer, you better call your doctor.” I called my mother who works an hour away from my house and asked her to please come home something is wrong and I don’t know what exactly. 

I then called my doctor and told her what had happened and she asked me to come in to talk with her. At this point I knew something was wrong, so I asked her to please just tell me over the phone. She did not want to, but after begging her to tell me…she said, “you have cervical cancer.” I started shaking uncontrollably. After a minute or so I asked her what had to be done. She told me I needed a radical hysterectomy.

Upon hearing this news I screamed at the top of my lungs and starting saying “why?” over and over again. Hearing you have cancer and that you will never be able to have another child in the same conversation is horrifying. 

How can this all be happening? Just a couple of months ago I was pregnant and so happy. I was pregnant with our second child and miscarried during my third month on June 23, 2009. The only thing that was comforting me during the time after my miscarriage, was that I would be able to try again for a child. And now…that would never happen. 

After all of the phone calls and meeting with my doctor and going back and forth to the doctor’s office to pick up copies of my records, my slides from my colposcopy and anything else I needed, I scheduled an appointment at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in Manhattan. After various visits to Memorial Sloan Kettering to have another biopsy, I met with the doctor to discuss everything, and get everything in order, I was told that my cancer was Stage 1B1.

3. What kind of treatments did you get and did it worked?

August 31, 2009, I had a radical hysterectomy. I hated leaving my daughter that morning…in fear that I would never see her again. Walking down the hallway away from my husband and my mother on my way to the operating room was so scary to me. 

Watching my husband put his arm around my mother to comfort her will never leave my mind. The operation lasted 6 hours. The last thing I remember is looking at the clock that was above the operating table. It was 11:15am, the next thing I remember was waking up in the recovery room at 8:15 pm. 

The physical pain that I felt in the next few days was excruciating. After spending 4 days in the hospital I then returned home to recover. A week or so later I received the phone call from my Gynecologic Oncologist that I was waiting for.

My pathology results were good! I was cancer free…no radiation…no chemotherapy needed. Shortly after that I had my catheter taken out.  At one of my first follow up exams I was diagnosed with a right ovarian blood clot (detected through a CT Scan). I was treated for the blood clot with 6 months of Coumadin and 3 months of Warfarin injections (because my INR was not in the range they would have liked it to be in). 

Tamika Felder and Jennifer

4. Do you feel yourself now?

During the 3 to 4 months after my surgery I was in pain almost every day. The past two years have been so hard for me. I often sit and wonder why did this happen. I thank God every day that I am alive and cancer free. But I will never forget all of the physical and emotional pain that this has caused me.

Just one month ago I had my 2 year follow up…Cancer free and blood clot free! 

5. If you can give any advice to women what would you say?

If I could give advice to a woman going through this, I would tell them to take each moment at a time. Just because you hear those dreaded words, “you have cancer,” it does not mean your life is over.

Surround yourself with people that will be there for you to support you in a positive, loving way. Educate yourself on what is going on inside you. Make a list of questions and any fears you might have to ask your oncologist. 

All the answers and information you need about your specific case will come from your doctor. Don’t do too much reading on the internet about it. Yes, educate yourself…but don’t make yourself crazy with information on other cervical cancer cases that have nothing to do with you, because each case is different.

Do not leave any question you have unanswered. Know all of your options and ask questions regarding fertility. I found comfort in knowing that I was not alone in this battle when I found Tamika and Friends. You are never alone.... 

6. Can you tell us about your family?

I have the best family anyone could ask for. I am an only child to a single mother, Jean, she is my heart. I could not survive without her.

I have been with my husband, Sean, for almost 14 years. We have been married for 6 years and have a beautiful little girl, Alyssa.

Jennifer and husband Sean

Sean is the strongest person I know. and Alyssa…is my life. I am so blessed to have her. My family is my life and I feel so lucky to have them by my side.

7. Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?

I see myself in 5 years leading a life just like I live today. Cancer free, healthy, happy and enjoying every moment. As much pain as this past 2 years has brought me, it has brought me so much happiness! I feel like this is a new life for me. There is nothing better than hearing, “you are cancer free.” You feel like you can do anything!

I am so happy that there is now a vaccine for cervical cancer.

This vaccine will prevent others from developing cancer and preserve fertility. Without the love and support of my family I don’t know how I would have gotten through all of this. I fought this cancer for my baby girl, Alyssa. Mommy loves you and thanks you for being my inspiration to live. I thank God everyday that I have you. I still hope one day to have another child. 

Editors' Note:  We want to thank Jennifer for sharing her story with us.  Wishing her many years of health and happiness with her beautiful family.                 

Diet And Fitness: Fighting Cancer With A Healthy Body

Post written by guest blogger David Haas

Keeping a body fit and healthy can help cancer patients fight their disease. Whether one is battling a common disease like breast cancer, or a very rare cancer like mesothelioma, there are clear benefits to using fitness to help fight the disease. A nutritious diet combined with the right exercise, can give cancer patients the preparation they need to cope with their cancer symptoms and treatment side effects.

That being said, it is often hard for cancer patients to stay motivated to stay healthy. Chemotherapy, radiation, and other cancer treatments take a toll on the appetite, and digestive problems like vomiting and diarrhea make it hard to retain healthy nutrients. Fatigue and pain make exercise difficult, too. Even a short walk requires more effort than some patients can manage. 
Dietary Guidelines For Cancer Patients

Nevertheless, healthy foods can have a tremendous impact on cancer outcome. Along with regular exercise, dietary choices and weight control are important determining factors -- not only for cancer risk, but also for cancer recovery. 

The American Cancer Society (ACS) has published a set of nutrition and exercise guidelines for a body that is healthy and equipped to fight cancer. Patients can find a copy of the guidelines in “CA: A Cancer Journal For Clinicians.”  The ACS recommends a fruit and vegetable heavy diet that includes whole grains. Cancer patients should limit their intake of processed foods, red meats, and alcoholic beverages. 
Fitness Guidelines For Cancer Patients

The ACS also recommends a physically active lifestyle for cancer patients and survivors. Adults should engage in some activity for a duration of at least 30 minutes, and they should exercise at least five days a week. As their fitness level improves, they should aim for 45 minutes to an hour of exercise at a time.

Moderate exercise is safe for most cancer patients, although they should always consult with their doctor before starting a fitness program. Patients with late-stage cancers, such as those facing mesothelioma treatment, may be unable to exercise due to breathing difficulties. But gentle movements and stretching are still beneficial, if they feel up to it.

The benefits of fitness for cancer patients include reduced fatigue, improved appetite, enhanced mood, better sleep, stronger body, and the ability to cope with cancer symptoms and treatment. Not only can exercise help patients in the short-term, but it can maximize their health for the long-term. Finding an activity they enjoy and working out with a friend or group, will increase their motivation and help they stick with the program.

David Haas  is an advocate for cancer patinets who wants to make a difference in their lives  because, "cancer has devastated so many people in this world."

New Flu Vaccine for the 2011-2012 Flu Season

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new Flu vaccine for the 2011-2012 flu season. The FDA works annually with global health experts to design a vaccine to protect against the three main viral strains that cause the flu. Each flu season is different and unpredictable in nature. Virus strains tend to change, and therefore we can probably expect to see new flu strains this year also. Even though the strain circulating during flu season may not perfectly match with those in the vaccine, the FDA still recommends vaccination as it may reduce the severity of infection and also help prevent influenza-related complications.

According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) between 5 and 20 percent of Americans get the flu each year, with up to 200,00 people hospitalized. They recommend those six months and older receive an annual flu shot; especially the following groups listed below due to the high risk of having serious flu-related complications:

• Pregnant women
• Children younger than 5, but especially children younger than 2 years old
• People 50 years of age and older
• People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions like diabetes etc
• People who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities
• People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu, including health care workers

Yearly flu vaccination should begin in September or as soon as a vaccine becomes available. Because the timing and duration of influenza seasons vary each year, it is still recommended you get vaccinated throughout out the season. While influenza outbreaks can happen as early as October, most of the time influenza activity peaks in January or later.

There are some people who should not get a flu vaccine without first consulting with your medical doctor. These include:

• People who have a severe allergy to chicken eggs.
• People who have had a severe reaction to an influenza vaccination.
• People who developed Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) within 6 weeks of getting an influenza vaccine.
• Children less than 6 months of age (influenza vaccine is not approved for this age group)
• People who have a moderate-to-severe illness with a fever (they should wait until they recover to get vaccinated.) 

For more information, please visit:
Flu.gov
CDC.gov