THE WILD WEST OF PSA TESTING

HOW EFFECTIVE ARE STRATEGIES TO LOWER PSA READINGS?  By: Dr. Roberta Kline

PSA, or prostate-specific antigen, is a protein produced by prostate cells. It can be elevated when these cells increase in number and is a common screening test for prostate cancer. Studies have shown that up to 75% of men with elevated PSA levels do not have prostate cancer on biopsy, however, and up to 50% of prostate cancers are overdiagnosed. [1]

This means that most of the time, an elevated PSA is due to other causes not related to cancer, including normal aging and benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). Inflammation caused by prostatitis, trauma, or vigorous exercise, as well as sexual activity, can also impact PSA levels. In addition, PSA levels can vary with ethnicity, weight, diabetes, and certain medications. [1, 2]

REDUCING PSA LEVELS
Because the consequences of elevated PSA levels in the absence of prostate cancer can include increased surveillance and unnecessary biopsies, anxiety, and can even impact the ability to get life insurance, there is a need for more information on how to lower PSA levels and, indeed, whether this correlates with improved health.

Many supplements, dietary, and lifestyle choices have been promoted to lower PSA levels. However, the research is often contradictory and often linked together with prostate cancer risk; thus, knowing which strategies to reduce PSA are based on science can be challenging. Genetic expression is helping us untangle the complexity.

GENETICS OF PSA
While a small number of cases of prostate cancer are due to rare genetic mutations, most are related to more common errors in genes called SNPs. These SNPs create small alterations in biochemistry and biology linked to the risk of prostate cancer, but this risk is modifiable by dietary and lifestyle choices and environmental exposures over that person’s lifetime. [3]  It turns out this holds true for PSA levels as well. 

Researchers evaluating PSA levels in men without prostate cancer found that up to 30-40% of the variation in PSA levels could be attributed to underlying SNPs in multiple biological systems including hormone metabolism, DNA repair, inflammation, cancer promotion and suppression, and oxidative stress. [3,4]

(L) Image source: Kachuri L et al. PSA-associated variants identified on GWAS.

EPIGENETICS OF PSA
Asian men have the lowest rate of prostate cancer, followed by Native and Latin American men, then Caucasian men, with African American men having the highest. Risks associated with elevated PSA also vary with ethnicity. Second-generation Japanese men in the U.S. will have the same rate of prostate cancer as Caucasian men, indicating that a combination of genetics and diet/lifestyle plays a role. [5]

EPIGENETICS MAY PROVIDE A CRUCIAL LINK
Epigenetics gives us the ability to change how our genes express in response to our environment. As with our DNA, epigenetic changes can be inherited. But unlike our DNA, these epigenetic changes are dynamic. This is one of the key mechanisms by which changes in diet, lifestyle, and environment can create changes in health and well-being.

Epigenetic alterations associated with diet, exercise, smoking, trauma, or stress have been linked to elevated PSA levels as well as to prostate cancer. These can potentially be reversed by interventions addressing these factors. [6] Epigenetic testing may also be effective as a future screening tool, as it has been shown to reduce false positives of PSA tests in initial research.  [7]

THE ROLE OF OXIDATIVE STRESS AND INFLAMMATION
Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation are linked to most chronic diseases including prostate cancer. [8] They are also linked with elevated PSA and are influenced by numerous factors, including diet, exercise, and stress – all of which “talk” to genes, influencing gene expression that can promote health or disease.

Early childhood stress and chronic stress are linked to increased inflammation and oxidative stress by altering gene expression, which can increase both PSA levels and prostate cancer. Combining mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and a plant-based diet has been shown to lower PSA levels [9] as has regular exercise. [10]

Plant-based diets, such as the Mediterranean Diet, include an abundance of foods rich in nutrients, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds, which are associated with beneficial gene expression that supports health. These include colorful fruits and vegetables, cruciferous vegetables, healthy fats, legumes, and whole grains, along with minimal amounts of processed foods and sugar. Conversely, diets low in these healthy foods but rich in saturated fats, processed foods, alcohol, and sugar are associated with adverse changes in gene expression that promote disease.

While research has shown the impact of various foods and diets on inflammation and oxidative stress, translating this into specific recommendations for reducing PSA is more challenging. One reason is that foods contain many different components that are often synergistic, and untangling these to isolate specific components often proves difficult. Another reason is that we are often looking at the wrong measurement.

SUPPLEMENTS: WHAT WORKS?
Designing studies to evaluate the role of diet, supplements, and lifestyle in specific health issues, including PSA levels, is often fraught with challenges. This often translates into contradictory results that can be quite confusing, especially without knowing how to interpret the research. 

Evaluating multiple studies, one review found no evidence that intake of individual nutrients or supplements containing lycopene, vitamin E, cruciferous vegetables, soy/isoflavones, green tea, polyphenols, fish/marine omega-3, coffee, or vitamin D were significantly associated with PSA levels. [6] Another found that levels of Vitamin A, B2, C, D, E, alpha-carotene, selenium, lycopene, lutein + zeaxanthin, beta-cryptoxanthin, and folate were not associated with PSA levels, although low Vitamin D and low serum albumin were associated with elevated PSA levels. [10]

These results may reflect the limitations of applying the pharmaceutical model to nutritional supplements, as they often work synergistically. Consistent with this, the Pomi-T study showed that a specific supplement combining pomegranate, green tea, broccoli, and curcumin reduced PSA among men with prostate cancer. [11]

Antioxidants are not limited to vitamins and minerals. The most powerful antioxidants are phytonutrients. Phytonutrients, also known as polyphenols, can also have anti-inflammatory activity, affect epigenetics, and influence gene expression. Resveratrol, curcumin, sulforaphane, EGCG, quercetin, apigenin, genistein, silymarin, and anthocyanins are all examples. When evaluating the impact of antioxidants on oxidative stress, DNA damage provides a better assessment than individual nutrient status. Research shows that as these phytonutrients restore normal antioxidant status, they lower PSA levels along with inflammation. [12]

(L) Image source: Li, W., Chen, H., Xu, B., et al. (2023). Research progress on classification, sources and functions of dietary polyphenols for prevention and treatment of chronic diseases. Journal of Future Foods, 3(4), 289-305. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfutfo.2023.03.001

THE SOLUTION
Putting this all together, reducing PSA levels needs to incorporate multiple elements to have the best effect. The combination of a Mediterranean-type Diet, regular exercise, and stress management, along with the incorporation of specific supplements, can beneficially affect gene expression to reduce PSA levels and potentially prevent progression to prostate cancer.

References

1) Bernal-Soriano, M. C., Parker, L. A., López-Garrigos, M., et al (2019). Factors associated with false negative and false positive results of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and the impact on patient health: Cohort study protocol. Medicine, 98(40). https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000017451

2) Grammatikopoulou, M. G., Gkiouras, K., Papageorgiou, S. Τ., et al (2020). Dietary Factors and Supplements Influencing Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Concentrations in Men with Prostate Cancer and Increased Cancer Risk: An Evidence Analysis Review Based on Randomized Controlled Trials. Nutrients, 12(10), 2985. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12102985

3) Karunasinghe, N., Minas, T. Z., Bao, B., et al. (2022). Assessment of factors associated with PSA level in prostate cancer cases and controls from three geographical regions. Scientific Reports, 12(1), 1-16. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-04116-8

4) Kachuri, L., Hoffmann, T. J., Jiang, Y., et al (2023). Genetically adjusted PSA levels for prostate cancer screening. Nature Medicine, 29(6), 1412-1423. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-023-02277-9

5) Hinata, N., & Fujisawa, M. (2022). Racial Differences in Prostate Cancer Characteristics and Cancer-Specific Mortality: An Overview. The World Journal of Men's Health, 40(2), 217-227. https://doi.org/10.5534/wjmh.210070

6) Labbé, D. P., Zadra, G., Ebot, E. M., et al (2015). Role of diet in prostate cancer: The epigenetic link. Oncogene, 34(36), 4683-4691. https://doi.org/10.1038/onc.2014.422

7) Pchejetski, D., Hunter, E., Dezfouli, M., et al. (2023). Circulating Chromosome Conformation Signatures Significantly Enhance PSA Positive Predicting Value and Overall Accuracy for Prostate Cancer Detection. Cancers, 15(3), 821. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers15030821

8) Rago, V., & Di Agostino, S. (2023). Novel Insights into the Role of the Antioxidants in Prostate Pathology. Antioxidants, 12(2), 289. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12020289

9) Dovey, Z., Horowitz, A., & Waingankar, N. (2023). The influence of lifestyle changes (diet, exercise and stress reduction) on prostate cancer tumour biology and patient outcomes: A systematic review. BJUI Compass, 4(4), 385-416. https://doi.org/10.1002/bco2.237

10) Lin, Y., Zhu, X., Aucoin, A. J., Fu, Q., Park, J. Y., & Tseng, S. (2023). Dietary and Serum Antioxidants Associated with Prostate-Specific Antigen for Middle-Aged and Older Men. Nutrients, 15(15). https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15153298

11) Thomas, R., Williams, M., Sharma, H., et al. (2014). A double-blind, placebo-controlled randomised trial evaluating the effect of a polyphenol-rich whole food supplement on PSA progression in men with prostate cancer—The UK NCRN Pomi-T study. Prostate Cancer and Prostatic Diseases, 17(2), 180-186. https://doi.org/10.1038/pcan.2014.6

12) Naghii MR, Hedayati M, Mofid M (2015) Antioxidants therapy: An alternative for androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) to decrease prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level. 2: DOI: 10.15761/ICST.1000132

Prostate Scan Now: Episode 1 (Host: Cousin Sal Banchitta - Ret FDNY FF)

 

My name is Sal Banchitta- aka- Cousin Sal. I've had an incredible 30+ year career in the NY Fire Department, what so many of considered to be the best job in the world. There is no other profession that even comes close to the rewards of being a city firefighter. We were the first and last line of defense to protect this great city from any catastrophe and aligned with a special family of the most unique and remarkable men and women is truly the ultimate blessing. 

PROSTATE SCAN NOW: I welcome you to view our pilot episode in support of proactive checkups and Prostate Health!  I'm speaking to all my dude-friends in their 50's who need to start taking their health more seriously, while applauding those who have stayed on top of early detection and prevention. One such person is my latest hero in this- Mr. Barrie Kolstein. Check out our feature on this great motivator and role model!

STATS ABOUT PC:

"Prostate cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in American men, behind only lung cancer."  (Source- American Cancer Assoc)

"...leading cause of cancer death among men in the US, with 94 men dying from it every day." (Source: pcf.org)

"More than 3.3 million men in the United States who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point are still alive today". (Source- American Cancer Assoc)

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Can we still Trust PSA Blood Test Readings?

Disclaimer: The information (including, but not limited to text, graphics, images and other material) contained in this article is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or scientific claims. Furthermore, any/all contributors (both medical and non-medical) featured in this article are presenting only ANECDOTAL findings pertaining to the effects and performance of the products/technologies being reviewed - and are not offering clinical data or medical recommendations in any way. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you read on this page, article, blog or website.”

This section originally published 8/26/20 @ The American Council on Science and Health (www.acsh.org)  Patient-Specific Anxiety: "My PSA was 22. I had a biopsy; it was benign...GOOD! The biopsy showed inflammation, so I had a (surgical) biopsy I didn’t need... BAD!  There has to be a better way!” 

Evolution of NON-INVASIVE PROSTATE DIAGNOSIS 

Prostate cancer, now considered the most common cancer in men, especially African-Americans (6-NIH), was rare until the 1950’s. Earlier, a blood test identifying prostate specific antigen (PSA was developed for use in “rape kits” to provide criminal evidence in court) was never designed as the screening tool for prostate cancer that it has become  today. Our national guidelines recommend screening with PSA for men age 55 to 69, a recommendation that 40% of men follow. But what happens after a PSA test is termed positive?

In 2012 the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommended against routine PSA screening for prostate cancer due to the risk of over-diagnosis and over-treatment with most prostate cancer remaining asymptomatic. The panel concluded that the potential benefit of testing did not outweigh the risk of harm, arguing against continued screening except for those with known risk factors and a life expectancy greater than 10 years. Screening may have indeed reduced the rate of death from prostate cancer by an estimated 20%, but it was also associated with a high risk of overdiagnosis (diagnosis in men who would not have clinical symptoms in their lifetime).  This means that PSA testing would have saved about 60,000 lives but some 900,000 men would have undergone the undue injury of an unnecessary surgical biopsy. 

THE BIOPSY is an invasive procedure removing a small section of tissue and examination for cancer cells.  It remains the gold standard in diagnosing prostate cancer. Biopsies are now performed in an office setting, using topical or sedation anesthesia. It involves using a needle to obtain tissue from the prostate through the rectum. Twenty five years ago the routine biopsy protocol called for six needle cores. Because it was performed without imaging, it missed many cancers deep within the prostate. The number of tissue samples taken was expanded to 12 and even up to 96 cores at some centers. Needle biopsies cause serious complications in 1% of patients - even fatal outcomes have recorded. Infection which can require prolonged antibiotic therapy is the most common problem. Nowadays biopsies are guided, meaning that doctors use imaging through ultrasound or MRI  to direct the needles to areas of concern. 

CALLING FOR A DIAGNOSTIC UPGRADE: The strategy of relying on a (PSA) blood test as the precursor to a biopsy required significant reassessment.  Though approved by the FDA in 1986 as the gold standard for monitoring cancer relapses, increasing reports continue to indicate that elevated PSA levels in over 70% of men show a false positive reading- and does not conclude a malignant cancer. (NIH ref). Because of the inaccuracies of the PSA test and the risk of side effects, many centers are now using imaging solutions like ultrasound 3-D Doppler and MRI before considering a biopsy.

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First Responder Gets Checked for Enlarged Prostate

NYCRA's own "COUSIN SAL" BANCHITTA, Retired FDNY FF and Cancer Prevention Advocate for the F.A.C.E.S. (Firefighters Against Cancers and Exposures) "Get Checked NOW!" program often partners with Dr. Robert Bard's clinical research team to explore the latest in diagnostic and therapeutic health innovations.

In August of 2023, Sal joined a group of four men over 50 on an exploratory and clinically monitored study applying PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Frequency) to address BPH (Benign prostatic hyperplasia) or enlarged prostate gland. According to Yale Medicine, "about 50% of men between the ages of 51 and 60 have BPH, and that number jumps to 70% among men aged 60 to 69 and around 80% of men over 70 years of age".[1]

This exploratory concept was under a collaboration between Dr. Robert Bard (seasoned diagnostic imaging specialist), Russell Allen (executive director of Wellness Now!)" and Dr. Lennard Gettz (research coordinator of IPHA/ Integrative Pain Healers Alliance). In expanded technical collaboration with Mr. Patrick Ziemer (AuraWell PEMF), this panel launched the exploratory concept of employing a non-invasive alternative solution to reduce prostate size as part of improving men's overall health. "Historically, we have observed the growing success of PEMF on a wide variety of physiological disorders... joining the strength of Dr. Bard's imaging capacity to monitor and validate real-time treatment progress, we have united to launch this micro study... that may someday change the face of how prostate disorders may be managed", states Dr. Noelle Cutter, IPHA Senior Medical Editor & clinical research specialist.

Use of ultrasound imaging has been Dr. Bard's "scanner of choice" when it comes to analyzing and diagnosing a wide array of complex health disorders, from cancer tumors to inflammatory disorders. As a beta tester for developers of ultrasound feature upgrades, Dr. Bard has published an expanded set of findings in support of PEMF regenerative benefits.  His latest pilot study provided quantitative evidence about PEMF-induced micro-tissue and vascular reactions, thanks to his creative use of echocardiography. "Over the years, I have gained significant confidence in Pulsed Bioenergy therapeutic innovations", states Dr. Bard. "...through strategic imaging, we can visibly and quantifiably identify the smallest veins dilating and the contractility of the tissue being energized- appearing as pulse vibrations in the form of the undulating surface line of the muscle. This is how we can illustrate the path of ENERGY MEDICINE in real-time action".

PILOT STUDY ON THE ROAD

Sal Banchitta, one of four volunteers took home the Nova-HD (by AuraWell PEMF) from the Bard Diagnostic Imaging center in NYC. All case studies are instructed to use the PEMF device as directed- applying electromagnetic exposure via the provided PEMF coil for an est. 20 minutes 2x a day. "Aside from the clicking sound of the power source device, what I learned about PEMF is that it's widely known to be painless and has no known side effects", says Mr. Banchitta. "I also learned this technology to offer so much by ways of pain relief and cell regenerative therapy".

Unlike the other participants of the study, Sal was scheduled to go on a coastal road trip for business immediately after his PEMF consult. The clinical panel found this to be an ideal situation to conduct the test from the drivers seat.  "Adult Americans spend a major portion of their lives behind the wheel... proving how to integrate PEMF treatments while driving could be a great way to optimize use of one's travel time", stated Patrick Ziemer.

TREATMENT "ON THE GO"

Because I had a limited amount of time and a tight travel schedule, I chose to take advantage of the situation by bringing the PEMF into my truck- and it was easy! I installed an a 110 AC outlet to plug in the device. Sitting on the PEMF coil is the same here as it is in my recliner chair at home. The coil was soft and absolutely comfortable and it wasn't an impediment to my driving at all. I used it for about an hour each day and I had a lot of hours to kill. 

SAL'S HEALTH JOURNEY

I have always been a proponent of early detection- especially when it comes to prostate cancer. Four years ago, my annual retirement exam started with a blood test. My primary found my PSA was slightly elevated, so I was then sent to the urologist as standard operating procedure.  Before you know it, I received a report of a "slightly" enlarged prostate which put me into what felt like an automated track to getting a biopsy.  Getting a biopsy without an MRI or any type of imaging made the needle work a complete and painful shot in the dark. Getting poked 12+ times in what felt like complete guesswork was terrible experience. In the end, we found that the biopsy could have been avoided if the PSA reading gave more information, and a more accurate assessment. As a member of a family predisposed to cancer, the stress of waiting for the biopsy, then actually undergoing the procedure thinking I MAY have have cancer or not was completely an unfair ordeal to put anyone through.  

Meanwhile, this is what launched my journey to support prostate health- including why I am now driving with a PEMF coil on my drivers seat!

(End of Part 1)

https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/enlarged-prostate-benign-prostatic-hyperplasia-bph#:~:text=But%20because%20enlarged%20prostate%2C%20or,over%2070%20years%20of%20age.

Key to the City goes to "ARE YOU DENSE?"

WATERBURY, Conn. (October 12, 2023) JOE CAPPELLO/ARE YOU DENSE? FOUNDATION RECEIVES KEY TO THE CITY FROM MAYOR O'LEARY

Waterbury celebrated a citywide Pink Out on Thursday, October 26th! Saint Mary’s Hospital Foundation has once again partnered with the City of Waterbury to recognize Breast Cancer Awareness. Waterbury Mayor Neil O’Leary, Saint Mary’s Hospital President, Kim Kalajainen and special guest Joe Cappello will address organizers and volunteers from the Waterbury Police and Fire Departments as well as the Education Department, area students and others at 11:00 a.m.  at Waterbury City Hall.  

"PINK OUT" DAY- transcript from Mayor O'Leary's speech:

We want to thank Waterbury public schools, all of our great city employees who have embraced this PINK OUT. Of course the people in my office who have worked tirelessly on this, particularly Allie and  Judy and Jen. I hope our message resonates with you. I hope you all go home and talk about this tonight with your families and your, your children, and maybe even your grandchildren on your siblings and your, uh, family members.  We do preventative screening each and every year, and please reach out to us and we will make sure that we put you in the queue for the preventative screening, which will take you all of about seven minutes. Nothing intrusive. We take some samples from you, we check you out. More than likely you're gonna be fine, but every once in a while we come across someone who's not and we save their life. 

It's one of the reasons why we signed on with Cigna Healthcare, because Cigna healthcare is in front of the curve in this area, and that's why the City of Waterbury switched over to Cigna back in 2013. Without further ado, I just want to present this plaque to Mr. Joseph Capello for his amazing speech today, but more importantly for his commitment to honoring his wife, Nancy, and her ordeal and what she went through. And think about this, when this becomes a federal mandate in September, thanks to the work that started right here, we will save through the His Joe's initiative, the lives of millions of women, not hundreds of thousands, millions of women throughout, not only the United States of America, but as you heard globally. And that's the difference here, folks. And thank you, Mr. Capello. And this is a key to the city of Waterbury with our pink. Now you only have so November 30th to use it in one of the doors. <laugh>. Thank you all you guys, you're great. We love you and thanks, of course. A special thanks to Trinity St. Mary's. 

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ADVOCATE'S JOURNAL: WHERE ARE WE WITH ENDOMETRIOSIS CARE?

Under a joint report with the Women's Diagnostic Network and HealthTech Reporter, our research editor Dr. Robert Bard caught up with Ms. MJ Smith, a clinical ambassador from Screen Point Medical (breast imaging AI) at the 2023 NYC Roentgen Society conference. At the height of the medical conference, we found MJ to be a uniquely profound and engaging speaker about women's health topics.  Exploring a private connection opened us into a collaborative and educational journey befitting our UNDERDIAGNOSED WOMEN series where MJ is truly a life-long crusader in support of clinical advocacy. (see complete feature)

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TOO YOUNG FOR A MAMMO?

A major concern is the presence of breast cancer in underserved communities, including those TOO YOUNG FOR A MAMMOGRAM.  Whereby the medical community touts the recommended (and legal/billable status) of getting a mammo scan should be between 40-50, what happens to the many women who do not fit this age criteria?  How would they even know to get checked without the support of their clinicians or an alarm from family history? Decades into the battle against breast cancer, clinicians and the public are much more educated about EARLY DETECTION, PREVENTION and the current protocols and modalities available to save lives.  Recent headlines on DENSE BREAST and the advancements in ULTRASOUND SCANNING supports a major part of this battle. SEE COMPLETE FEATURE

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GO "EARLIER" WITH EARLY DETECTION (FOR WOMEN AGES 20-40)

According to the American Cancer Society (ACS),  women ages 45 to 54 and post-menopausal years are required to get mammograms every year.[1a] But for the underserved ages (20-40), the risk for breast cancer exists in growing numbers. In support of Breast Cancer Awareness month, the Integrative Cancer Resource Society, the AngioFoundation Institute (501c3) and the "Are You Dense?" Foundation  addresses the continuing concerns for breast cancer in the New York area by recommending early detection screening programs for women over 20 (and not just anyone 40+ as standardized by the insurance companies.

GEN-Z FIGHTS FOR EARLY DETECTION

I went to my doctor for a lump I felt in my breast and she gave me a response that set off red flags: "don't worry about it". Being a researcher involved in breast density and breast cancer, I knew that I had to take action; I was fortunate enough to have my breast ultrasound training with Dr. Robert Bard (cancer imaging specialist, NYC) upcoming in the next week. Dr. Bard showed me how to use the ultrasound to help me find two benign tumors in my breasts, and it was there that he reported that I have dense breasts. Had I not taken action in getting screened at the young age of 22, I would have never known that I should be getting screened via ultrasound every 6 months (because having dense breasts puts me at a higher risk for breast cancer), nor would I have known that I had benign breast tumors. 

- ALEXANDRA FIEDERLEIN, 22

Cancer Researcher/ Graduate- Molloy Univ.

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EPIGENETIC RESEARCH NOTES: 

Profiling the Dense Breast Paradigm  - by: Dr. Roberta Kline. 

As an Ob-Gyn physician and genomics specialist, I have spent the better part of 10 years translating research in the genomic and gene expression areas into clinically usable information for healthcare professionals. One of the biggest challenges we face when connecting research with patient care is the long delay in the translation process and dissemination of the information. It often takes 10 to 20 years for information (validated findings) that comes out of research to be applied in clinical practice. These delays result in many lost opportunities to provide better care for our patients. This is one of the reasons why I'm really passionate about accelerating this process and making it easier for clinicians and their patients to take advantage of cutting-edge information and new technologies.  (see complete report)

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"In order to catch cancer, you need to be able to detect it at an early stage so we can treat patients with the most effective mechanisms.  Ultrasounds are an easy, cost-effective method for screening for early breast cancers, especially in women below the age of 45, who are likely to have dense breasts. When you are young and premenopausal your breasts are dense and we know that breast density is linked to cancer and which also makes it harder for cancers to be seen on a mammogram. Although breast cancer is rare in women under the age of 40, early detection is key.  Public health campaigns are spending so much money on mammograms for this population of women who can easily and cost effectively be screened using an ultrasound."

"I LOVE this new program! Early detection is essential! There is a stigmatization around mammograms that they are painful and frightening. There is anxiety while you wait for the results. And, don't forget the appointment scheduling hassle.  Women, particularly younger women with active lives, small children, careers don't want to have to fit one more thing into their hectic and demanding schedules. However, mammogram technology itself has advanced and it no longer has to be a painful experience. Clinics and imaging centers are offering untraditional scheduling opportunities, such as very early morning appointments to late evening appointments that are timed for very minimal wait times. And, clinicians are often prioritizing mammogram interpretations so the results are back within 24 hours. The Self Care message is trending right now. Mammograms should be a part of self care."

How Brain Health & Training Can Help with Chemo Brain

Introduction: Since the earliest days of the NY Cancer Resource Alliance, our contributors (mostly cancer survivors) have generously shared their experiences and their struggles including their frustrations over "Chemo Brain".  As we launch our next set of features in time for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we are proud to include the fine work of our resident brain-trainer about this significant topic with the hopes of bringing measurable improvement to those living with post-treatment neurological or cognitive issues.

ADDRESSING "CHEMO BRAIN?"

By: Marilyn Abrahamson, MA,CCC-SLP

Cancer treatments like chemotherapy can be tough on the body and the mind. One common challenge that some people face during and after chemotherapy is "chemo brain." This can make it hard to remember things, stay focused, and think clearly. More specifically, it's a mental fog, clouding thoughts, memories, and clarity, leaving behind mental fatigue.

To tackle this issue, it's important to understand the value of brain health and training. We'll delve into the importance of brain health and training, revealing how taking care of your brain can harness neuroplasticity, offering renewed hope and recovery for those experiencing the symptoms of chemo brain.

Chemo brain, or cancer-related cognitive impairment, is when cancer treatment affects your thinking and memory. It can make you forget things, find it tough to concentrate, and slow down your brain.

Chemo brain can impact your life in many ways. It might make it hard to remember important dates, manage your daily tasks, and even feel good about yourself. Feeling frustrated or anxious because of memory problems is common.

Taking care of your brain is like taking care of your body. Here are some simple ways to do it:

- Healthy Habits: Just like eating well and staying active are good for your body, they're also great for your brain. Regular exercise, eating nutritious foods, and getting enough sleep can help your brain stay in good shape.

- Keep Your Brain Busy: Doing activities that make you think can keep your brain sharp. Try puzzles, reading, or learning new things to give your brain a workout.

- Stay Social: Spending time with friends and family is not only fun, but it's also good for your brain. It keeps your mind engaged and helps you stay connected.

- Training Your Brain to Get Stronger!  Think of brain training as being similar to training your muscles. You can do exercises to make your brain stronger and more agile as follows:

Better Memory: Learn and practice strategies for attention and memory, and look for challenging memory puzzles and games to improve your memory and avoid forgetfulness.

Concentration Boost: Try techniques like mindfulness meditation to help you focus better and pay attention more easily.

Solving Problems: Solve puzzles or play games that need thinking. These activities can improve your problem-solving skills and help your brain adapt to new challenges.

Use Brain Apps: There are apps designed to train your brain. They offer different games and exercises that you can do on your phone or tablet.

Train Your Brain: Learn about how to nourish your brain, and use it in a more effective way for more clarity, and better memory. The Long Live Your Brain online group brain training program can help!

CONCLUSION:

Dealing with chemo brain is no small task, but there are ways to overcome its challenges. By taking steps to keep your brain healthy through good habits, staying mentally active, and engaging in brain training exercises, you can make a positive impact on your cognitive abilities. Just like recovering from cancer, taking care of your brain is a journey that requires effort and dedication. With determination and the right strategies, you can improve your cognitive function and enhance your overall quality of life, even in the face of chemo brain.

For more information on the Long Live Your Brain program, visit our website at www.longliveyourbrain.com and schedule a free consultation with one of our dedicated brain health coaches.

MARILYN ABRAHAMSON, MA, CCC-SLP-CBHC : As a Brain Health Education Specialist at Ceresti Health, Marilyn offers initiatives that support the education and empowerment of family caregivers. Her latest endeavor is co-owner of BrainThrive Consulting and co-creator of the Long Live Your Brain© program, a fun and friendly online group brain coaching and training program for people striving for more reliable memory, attention, and clearer thinking. Marilyn’s prior work is as a NJ Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist since 1987 and is an Amen Clinics Certified Brain Health Coach.

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EXCERPT FROM "LIVE CALM WITH CANCER (…AND BEYOND)"  By: Tamara Green, LCSW & David Dachinger

DECISIVE DOCTOR VISIT

About a year after my initial diagnosis of stage IV head and neck cancer, I had a follow-up visit with my oncologist "Dr. C." After my vitals were taken and blood drawn, we had a brief wait in the bleak exam room.

During this exam, Dr. C. announced that my scans were clear and I was now officially cancer-free. He commented, “That was not an easy regimen (chemo, radiation and surgery) you just had, but you did phenomenally well!” He asked if there was actually something I did which helped me get through treatment in such good emotional and physical shape. I replied that I’d used a mindful wellness practice, listening to programs at the infusion center. His eyes lit up as he suddenly proclaimed, “That’s what I want for all of my patients!” He desired a way his patients could become calm before their exams or treatments.

As Dr. C. talked, Tamara’s eyes and mine met and a light bulb lit up. We’d been creating the Miracle Mondays guided meditation series for seven years, and we’d also recently lived through the cancer experience as patient and caregiver. Now my oncologist was pointing out a pain-point within his practice. As we exchanged huge smiles, we had our a-ha! moment: Loving Meditations was born.

RESEARCH-BASED RESULTS

Meditation has deep roots in research-based results. CancerNetwork.com, home of the journal Oncology, reported that mind-body practices like mindfulness meditation have been shown to “positively affect quality of life and biological outcomes” when used by cancer patients and healthcare professionals. [1] Let’s face it. Cancer and other major illnesses are scary, overwhelming, and stressful. How can we handle them with more ease?

[1] CancerNetwork.com, home of the journal Oncology “Mindfulness Meditation” by Susan Bauer-Wu, PhD, RN Oct 19, 2010 http://www.cancernetwork.com/oncology-nursing/mindfulness-meditation

 

HOW IT WORKS: The Loving Meditations App is available on two platforms, iOS (for iPad and iPhone) and Web App (for any device). For the free app download, go to http://www.calmcancerstress.com/ The mindful wellness programs are delivered via the App to empower cancer patients, survivors and caregivers with self-love, self-care and self-discovery on their healing journey, from diagnosis to survivorship.

As you watch Loving Meditations, Tamara’s calming voice, David’s expansive music and spectacular images shift you to a state of more calm. Our mindful techniques worked beautifully for us and also have helped thousands of people in over twenty countries.

 

REDUCING STRESS FOR PATIENTS: Imagine you’re sitting in the infusion center hooked up to a cocktail of IV medications. You are expecting to be sitting there for a few hours, anticipating discomfort and with time on your hands. Then you remember you have the Loving Meditations app on your device. Finding the right meditation is as simple as opening the app and answering a few questions with the Adviser feature. For example, when the Adviser asks, “Do you feel pain or discomfort?” you may choose to swipe right for yes, and the Adviser quickly guides you to helpful programs. Next, press play and enjoy the meditation. Whether you close your eyes and zone out or watch the beautiful images on the screen, you’ll be transported to a state of relaxation and tranquility.

RECHARGING FOR CAREGIVERS By: Dr. Leslie Valle & the Prevention101 Editorial Team During the Covid-19 surge, interviews with emergency medical professionals showed dramatic cases of ICU and ER responders exposed to major signs of advanced fatigue and risk of burnout.  This significantly raised major risks to their work performance where lives are to be affected, including theirs.  Over time, double and triple shifts resulted in "a different type of pandemic" on a national scale- where this level of exhaustion and overwhelm.   Where a leave of absence, a vacation or regular rest is not an immediate option, we can start with addressing BRAIN HEALTH AND MENTAL HEALTH.  Modern meditation solutions (like BrainTap®, Loving Meditations® and other such technologies) are now available for exactly this emergent case as a portable personal "Rescue" dose. By tap ping the mind/body connection into a Vital Re-charge mode, we can induce a "Refresh- Revitalize-Renew" condition.  As with conventional meditation, bringing you into a regenerative meditative state offers that level of rest, clears the mind for renewed focus and new energy to continue with the 'battle' at hand.

CALMING FOR SURVIVORS: Imagine you’re scheduled for a follow-up scan and are beginning to feel anxious about the procedure and results. Looking at your device screen, you notice an inspiring quote there from Loving Meditations. Opening the app, you navigate to one of the Mindful Minute videos called Total Focus Breath, a super easy technique to use anytime, anywhere to quickly calm and quiet the mind. You follow the breathing technique for the next several minutes. Quickly, a sense of “I’ve got this” replaces panic.

WHAT, ME MEDITATE?  We’ve heard folks say, “Yeah, but I have no time to meditate!” Looking at it another way, we don’t realize how many hours we actually spend watching the news, TV programs, or digital content on social media. Many of us devote significant time to this, sometimes to the point of addiction. Another common problem people mention about starting a mindful practice is that they can’t stop thinking and their mind is too “active” to meditate. They may have tried meditating in the past and found it difficult to sit and do nothing. Barraged by thoughts, they can’t shut them out. What if it was as easy as putting in earbuds and pressing play on the Loving Meditations App?

TBC

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2022 TRENDING INTEREST IN BRAIN HEALTH

By: David Dachinger & Joshua Schueller

Within the recent decade, a higher level of focus on brain health has been a trending topic in headlines throughout medical community news.  Public concerns about Alzheimer’s, Dementia, MS, ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases has driven advanced research in their diagnostics, therapeutics and prevention. According to Dr. Jay Lombard, “One of the most exciting opportunities in neuroscience research today is the use of strategies that protect the brain which may potentially prevent, delay or inhibit the progression of neurodegenerative diseases… this opportunity rests on our ability for early diagnosis. Research has shown that the likelihood of success for a given treatment-whether lifestyle changes or pharmacological approaches- is highly dependent upon early intervention, before the disease process has become too severe and potentially irreversible.” [1] 

 In addition, growing reports on Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy/CTE (identified from head concussions) has prompted significant attention to this progressive brain condition.  According to the National Health Service (UK), this disorder “is thought to be caused by repeated blows to the head and repeated episodes of concussion. It's particularly associated with contact sports, such as boxing or American football. Most of the available studies are based on ex-athletes”. [2]

More concerns of brain function and performance is widely seen in the current pandemic and post-covid infection sequelae cases, where over 50 prevailing symptoms and disorders (known as LONG HAUL) are now under global review. Clinical researchers state post-acute COVID—affects a multitude of organ systems- including neuropsychiatric issues like BRAIN FOG, a form of cognitive impairment. This may be linked to a wide range of pathologies such as anxiety and depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and recurring headaches and migraines. [3] In a recent meta-analysis study on long term effects of covid-19, Dr. Sonia Villapol (Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery at the Center for Neuroregeneration in the Houston Methodist Research Institute & Asst. Professor at Weill Cornell Medicine) recorded significant long haul cases pertaining to brain health and functions including 44% headaches, 27% attention disorders, 13% anxiety, 12% depression. [4]

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ROBERTA KLINE, MD (Educational Dir. /Women's Diagnostic Group) is a board-certified ObGyn physician, Integrative Personalized Medicine expert, consultant, author, and educator whose mission is to change how we approach health and deliver healthcare. She currently serves as Education Director for several organizations including the Women’s Diagnostic Health Network, Mommies on a Mission. 

LESLIE VALLE-MONTOYA, MD - is the founder of Biomed Life/ Santa Barbara Longevity Center. After medical school, Dr. Valle focused on managing chronic disease starting with its links to poor nutrition and then introducing them into the world of energy frequencies.  She explores and includes non-invasive modalities such as: frequency therapies (including biofeedback), PEMF, proper detoxification, nutritional guidance and binaural beats as needed.

Lt. DAVID DACHINGER (Ret) - is a retired Fire Lieutenant with over 21 years as a leader in emergency services. He is also a Stage IV cancer survivor. He wrote cancer prevention policies for the Ridgefield CT Fire Department, and introduced physical fitness wellness initiatives. David hosts the video podcast “Responder Resilience”, which is dedicated to improving the mental and physical well-being of police, fire, EMS, and dispatch personnel. 

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