NYCRA NEWS - New York Cancer Resource Alliance

Monday, November 12, 2018

FIRST MALE BREAST CANCER JOINT TASK FORCE CONFERENCE: DOCTORS AND SURVIVORS BUILD FUTURE PLANS TO SAVE MORE LIVES

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 10, 2018 marked the first Male Breast Cancer Coalition Screening Awareness Conference held in NYC. The Northeast Division led by Cheri Ambrose (co-founder) and her assembly of Male Breast Cancer survivors joined with NYCRA (NY Cancer Resource Alliance) to produce the first Educational Forum and Medical Presentation while celebrating their newly recruited medical experts in the MBCC Clinical Advisory Board. This event also honored all MBCC Senior Ambassadors, survivors and an emotion-filled roll call of those who recently died from Male Breast Cancer.
The event kicked off with Ms. Ambrose presenting the history of the MBCC and words of loving appreciation for Director Peggy Miller and co-founder Bret Miller who made a surprise candid appearance via Skype from Kansas. It was his male breast cancer diagnosis in 2010 that started it all for the (now) international foundation.

(l-r) Dr. Chagares, Dr. Bard & Cheri Ambrose

Dr. Robert Bard aided in establishing the Joint Task Force with MBCC to offer the first male-dedicated diagnostic program in NYC. On October 14, 2018- the Task Force was launched during “Male Breast Cancer Awareness Week” as per the decreed proclamation by Gov. Andrew Cuomo (presented to MBCC). Dr. Bard’s presentation featured “Image Guided Cancer Treatment of Male Breast Cancer” which included current biopsy statistics, antioxidant treatment options, a technical review and comparison between his Advanced Ultrasound technology vs. Standard Mammography + highlights about Recurrence Prevention.

Lennard Gettz, founder/president of NYCRA nominated the three medical speakers from his own cancer resource group into the clinical advisory board of MBCC based on a common thread of having pioneered a significant role in cancer research, care and treatment history. The first being Dr. Bard (Bard Cancer Diagnostics, NYC) for his advanced use of the 4D Doppler Ultrasonic technology. His showcase aligned seamlessly with the second medical speaker, Dr. Stephen Chagares, breast surgeon (Tinton Falls, NJ) who was recently published as the first in the U.S. to conduct a unique form of nipple-preserving robotic mastectomy for both men and women. He captured the audience with the remarkable advantages over conventional surgery including no scars on the breasts, a remarkable recovery in range of motion and according to published 5 year data, ZERO cancer recurrence and equal oncologic outcomes. Dr. Chagares was also the first worldwide to successfully perform this procedure on a male patient.

According to Dr. Chagares, “the mission to bring awareness about the impact of male breast cancer… and the joint task force of building this first male-dedicated diagnostics program is the first step toward a new standard screening within our entire healthcare community. Hopefully, these protocols using this ultrasound technology can be incorporated with other safety programs to create the best medical care possible for everyone.”

The third MBCC medical advisory board member honored in this event was Dr. Jesse Stoff (Westbury NY) whose life’s work encompassed the study and integration of a wide range of medical disciplines to battle chronic diseases by the strengthening of the immune system. His dedicated work in the science of immunology and advanced clinical research in cancer care earned him a major leadership role in the world of Integrative Onco-Immunology both in the U.S. and abroad. From eastern and western, ancient and modern, alternative and conventional, Dr. Stoff's advocacy and medical programs aptly titled “Staying in Remission” has been presented in countless seminars in the medical community and has been recognized by some of the most credentialed cancer experts, institutions and medical publications.

The spirit of the Coalition's survivors and ambassadors is driven to get the word out about this unique yet growing health concern. “Over time, the MBCC, as with every organization, finds their voice in the public advocacy area,” states Ms. Ambrose. “Fighting cancer is never possible without doctors- and our clinical voice for education and for awareness is widely thanks to our close ties with some of the top medical experts who battle cancer from the front lines.”

Courtesy of www.MBCScan.com

This relationship between foundation and medical professionals in joint pursuit of public education is a model that the MBCC aims to pursue nationwide. “Awareness is the answer to saving lives- especially with breast cancer… our service to the community is to wake people up to get a checkup- and to know that this type of cancer is very real and it does not discriminate!” states Peggy Miller.

NYCRA's commitment to bring the cancer community together brings a powerful message of compassion and empathy among caregivers and clinical leaders. The final NYCRA health speaker was Jodi Taub (licensed clinical social worker/therapist & patient advocate) who states, "I became a chronic illness expert because I've lived this personally. I am here to help both you and your family members learn how to cope with your illness because it's not just the diagnosis -- It's what you learn to live with for the rest of your life, and learn how to thrive for a better life."

The Male Breast Cancer Coalition continues to promote its public awareness and educational programs nationwide. This 2018 summit helped to add new names to their partnership program with cancer-related orgs and medical experts to draw in more support and resources for all Male Breast Cancer cases.

For additional info: contact NYCRA media dir. Carmen Regallo-Dewitt at 631-920-5757 (or MBCC media at: 913-326-2196

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Reference Links:

1) MBCC: Male Breast Cancer Coalition: www.mbccglobal.com

2) Dr. R. Bard: Bard Cancer Detection / www.MBCScan.com

3) Dr. S. Chagares: "American Surgeon Pioneers Advantages Of Robotic Mastectomy - Oct/2018"

4) Dr. S. Chagares: "First Male Robotic Mastectomy Worldwide Performed by Dr. Stephen A. Chagares"

6) Dr. J. Stoff: www.DrJesseStoff.com / www.IntegrativeMedicineofNY.com

7) Jodi Taub: www.joditaubtherapy.com

8) NY Cancer Resource Alliance: www.NYCralliance.org

9) Awareness for a Cure: www.Awarenessforacure.org

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Thursday, October 18, 2018

AMERICAN SURGEON PIONEERS ADVANTAGES OF ROBOTIC MASTECTOMY

by: Carmen Regallo-Dewitt, Ed.D. / Foreword by: Dr. Jesse Stoff

MEDICAL CRUSADERS: DR. CHAGARES MOVES SURGERY "AHEAD OF THE CURVE"

This past year alone, the wave of technical advancements is nothing short of a movement that solidly defines the future of medicine itself. Life extension protocols such as non-invasive surgeries, integrative onco-immunology, cellular regenerative therapies and the use of modern materials such as advanced ultrasonic and laser technologies are all leading us to a 'TREKIAN' reality (for those that have an appreciation for sci-fi marvels come to life).

Meet Dr. Stephen Chagares (Tinton Falls, NJ), a visionary in laparoscopic and robotic breast surgery who recently brought the discipline of Dr. Antonio Toesca at The European Institute of Oncology in Milan Italy to our shores. According to clinical trials published by Dr. Toesca, “...robotic nipple sparing mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction authors found two main advantages such as the robotic optical vision and the minimal invasiveness.”

On Sept. 14, 2018, he successfully achieved being the first in the United States to perform robotic nipple sparing mastectomy on a female cancer patient to be followed by immediate reconstruction. Yvonne Zucco was an ideal candidate and the first recipient for a skin, nipple and areola-sparing mastectomy with immediate multi-stage reconstruction. This presented major advantages over conventional procedures including a significant reduction in procedural time (from 7 to 3 hours), a remarkable recovery in range of motion and according to published 5 year data, ZERO cancer recurrence and equal oncologic outcomes.

Dr. Chagares is proud to lead the first program of its kind in the U.S.--paving the way for a future of breast cancer care, starting with robotic mastectomy. He offers this revolutionary procedure at various hospitals throughout Monmouth County, New Jersey. "Robotic mastectomy, with immediate reconstruction, opens the door to a new era of mastectomy and a new outlook for patients who are candidates, offering a modern approach to an operation that has been so physically, emotionally and psychologically scarring is remarkable," says Dr. Chagares.

The Male Breast Cancer Coalition and MBCC medical advisory board member Dr. Robert Bard of Bard Cancer Diagnostics (NYC) recognized Dr. Chagares’ achievements as well as the benefits of the procedural innovation that he brings to the cancer treatment community. Recent news features Dr. Chagares is also the first to successfully perform this procedure on a male patient worldwide. On October 12, 2018, Brian Thompson, 34 (L-image insert), recently underwent bilateral mastectomy with robotic assistance for growing and painful tumors from a disorder called Pseudoangiomatous Stromal Hyperplasia (PASH). Dr. Chagares removed all of the male patient's breast tissue from both breasts through single incisions under the armpits, eliminating incisions and scarring on the breasts.

Twelve hours after surgery, the patient carried full range of shoulder motion and was discharged from the hospital with drains with a completely positive report in his first postoperative week. Brian is said to be pain-free for the first time in four years. He fortunately had non-malignant tumors on pathology. Brian’s story is very important in that men have to understand that all breast lumps are not “just” gynecomastia. There are many types of breast masses in men just like women, and some are cancerous. Men’s breast masses need complete evaluation and can not be overlooked. There should be no stigma for men to discuss and work-up their breast masses, it can be life-saving.

As an advanced cancer imaging specialist and the founder of a major breast cancer diagnostics program in NYC, Dr. Bard often partners with top practitioners and “out of the box” professionals who, like him, subscribe to innovations that bring new benefits and advanced results to help patients and the overall treatment process. “...I completely support the implementation of Dr. Chagares’ talents and this advanced method in our medical community where more patients would truly benefit from this – it addresses everything I would look for, from accuracy, safety and better recovery time. I also acknowledge his research and determination seeking this protocol from beyond local means- where in many cases, other countries tend to bring more to the table! I have similarly brought back new non-invasive imaging technologies from Europe and Japan and made them available to our local medical community, so I appreciate the scientific dedication he has exhibited.”

“For treatment of cancer or pre-cancerous tissue or risk reduction for patients who have a high risk of developing breast cancer such as BRCA1 or 2 mutation patients… this procedure is still a mastectomy but it uses the robot to assist (me) the surgeon to make an incision not on the breast itself but on the side.” States Dr. Chagares. “When the patient wakes up, their cancer is gone or their risk is minimized, there are no scars on the breast, the nipples and areolae are intact, the implants are in and they don’t need any other operation. From the patient’s perspective, both psycho-socially and physically, it’s an amazing procedure and I can’t wait to be able to offer it to more breast cancer patients.”

The future of medical treatments and surgical procedures continues to advance at a remarkable rate with significant evidence of improved success and survival rate, the reduction of risk and post-op issues as well as better recovery time. Factors as these help drive engineers, surgeons and investors alike to a united front to bring a new era in the healing arts.

For more info on Dr. Stephen Chagares, visit: drchagares.com
and APP FEATURE

Tuesday, September 11, 2018

How to Choose the RIGHT DOCTOR: (Patient Advocacy Series)

Edited by: Carmen Regallo-Dewitt (awarenessforacure.org editor)

Today, we exercise our freedom of choice to seek complete confidence in our decisions. Seeking what's right for you is just that! I support all patients to be well-informed with research and asking a lot of questions that pertain to their health and issues. Do not be swayed by pressure just because this doctor takes your insurance or the popularity of that procedure. The almighty Google is still on your side to answer any question about anything and anyone, where making an intelligent choice must be strategic and thought through.

THE SECOND OPINION
From the moment your physician calls you about a debilitating illness, that inner voice may express curiosity about what other treatment options another doctor would prescribe? You may want to get another perspective on your current diagnosis or get another set of professional eyes to review your reports. All these concerns are quite natural and common - especially when it comes to pursuing such a major commitment as cancer care. We all want to gather all the information we can from trusted sources to build an intelligent direction that gives us complete confidence and peace of mind.

To seek a SECOND OPINION is a patient's right as a cautious and educated consumer. This measure is also a smart financial coverage encouraged by insurance companies geared to prevent much higher claims from costly or 'wrongful' procedures. Whether you're searching for a primary care physician or a specialist, shopping for any doctor can be quite a challenge. Ingredients for finding a professional that you can trust with your life rely heaviest on their reputation, expertise and qualifications found under smart research methods.

REFERRALS: Though medical professionals are now participating in the commercial world of marketing (such as broadcast and podcast commercials, youtube videos, social media promotion and public relations campaigns), the largest and most popular method of deciding on a doctor is still word of mouth. At least starting with a recommendation from a friend, colleague or family member, getting positive feedback about a practitioner through others' experience is a great place to begin.

RESEARCH: Once you have a name (or several names to choose from), the next answer is conducting online searches. With more than a decade of evolution, the internet provides a wide expanse of research options of about any professional. From patient reviews, local directories, educational contributions, social media connections and background checks, the web helps with so many ways to check out any professional for any success as well as not-so-good-news about them.

Meanwhile, as you proceed with your online research, employ 'smart searching' by knowing where to look and what to look for. Do not make quick judgments about an individual based on a sexy looking website. There are many doctors out there that have little marketing sense that pay more attention (as they should) in working with their patients than working with a fancy graphic design firm. On the other hand, doctors' websites may come with video testimonials, news coverage, educational backgrounds and a list of their partners- all information that help describe the strength of their capabilities. All doctors carry a varied set of strong points academically and professionally and it's up to you to find the clues you need to make that choice.

Narrowing down your candidates also means being organized. Have a folder and notes on significant information gathered online and/or from others. Save links that show vital information from reputable websites that you can return to for comparative reviewing. In the end, sizing up a doctor is all about the collected facts about them that you choose to dictate your decision.

E-REVIEWS: Affirming our freedom of speech is the internet's best function. Reviews, ratings and consumer reviews are aplenty - allowing you an inside look at a doctor's performance but discern with caution when finding either a "sugary" five-star comment or a demoralizing bad opinion in YELP (or the various popular review websites). Over time, you'll find many nay-sayers freely and maliciously bashing a professional for something completely unrealistic like "They had me sitting in the waiting room for 25 minutes without anything to read - so unprofessional!" In other words, discern the SOURCE of the review and conduct a fair amount of research instead of taking the first available opinion.

MEET AND GREET: Doctors come with their own personalities that may or may not match yours. During the first consultation, you may get the best clues as to whether or not this particular doctor is for you. Just as with any other relationship-based professional, follow your instincts during the inquiry of your ailments. You can usually tell if they're rushing to get 'done with you' or if they truly care about exploring your issues through genuine concern for problem-solving. Select a doctor who shows true interest in recommending current techniques, applications and solutions and one who is open to remedies outside of the pharmaceutical box. Know that the healthcare field is a complex field of information that is constantly growing and requires continued education to provide the most current care.

YOUR COMFORT LEVEL: Intuition is your inner voice telling you what's right for you. Your comfort level can be driven by a host of logical and illogical factors varying from the doctor's gender, their location, the design style of their office, their bedside manner or something as silly as their hairstyle. We may not always be able to identify what it is about a doctor that you are either drawn to or may have some apprehension about but at the end of the day, it's how you feel about that practitioner.

The ultimate answer to matching with the "right" doctor is truly based on a per-patient case. Where recommendations may fail, follow your gut, research as much as you can and remember, if you're in doubt or have concerns, NEVER SETTLE! There's always a second, third or fourth opinion and a wide list of other docs to choose from.

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MEDICAL CONTRIBUTORS

Jesse A. Stoff is a highly-credentialed medical expert studying all medical remedies in pursuit of resolving the most challenging health issues of our time. In many circles, he is recognized for his 35+ years of dedicated work in immunology and advanced clinical research in modern CANCER treatments. He has spoken worldwide in some of the most sought-after medical conferences about his experiences and analyses on the study of human disease. His integrative practice (INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE OF NY, Westbury, NY) has been continually providing all patients with the many comprehensive clinical options and modalities available- including "ONCO-IMMUNOLOGY", the science of battling cancer cells and reversing pre-cancerous conditions through a complete prevention program that has earned him great success in this field. For more information, visit: www.Dr.JesseStoff.com

Robert l. Bard, MD, PC, DABR, FASLMS is internationally known and recognized as a leader in the field of 21st century 3-d ultrasonographic volumetric doppler imaging. Dr. Bard specializes in advanced 3-D sonography to detect cancers in numerous organs including the breast, prostate, skin, thyroid, melanoma and other areas. Dr. Bard’s images are used to accurately guide biopsies, target therapy and provide focused follow-up after treatment. Dr. Bard is currently in consulting practice in New York (cancerscan.com). He appears frequently on regional television, national radio and is a consultant to major healthcare organizations. He is committed to improving non-invasive cancer testing and developing minimally invasive image guided technologies to prevent cancer spread through his foundation, The Biofoundation for Angiogenesis Research and Development. For more info, visit www.CancerScan.com.

COPYRIGHT INFO: This article is produced and written by the writing team at IMMUNOLOGY TODAY- The Official Newsletter of Integrative Medicine of N.Y. of Westbury NY-- Edited and co-published by Dr. Jesse A. Stoff exclusively for the purposes of this blogpost (Immunology Today) and rejuvenatesoliutions.com The publisher(s) hold all rights (c) to all elements, images and content herein. All distribution, sharing or re-posting of this article is only with the express permission from Dr. Stoff and Integrative Medicine of NY (formerly Linchitz Medical Wellness). 265 Post Ave. Suite 380 Westbury, NY 11590 | 516.759.4200 | www.StoffImmunology.com. Rejuvenate! is a registered trademark of Intermedia Communications Ltd. All written content in this newsletter is produced by the Stoff Institute for Medical Research (SIMR) exclusively for private distribution at the Integrative Medicine of NY ©2016- All Rights Reserved.

DISCLAIMER: All information provided in this article is intended as general public information and is not intended to treat or cure any disease or disorder. Dr. Jesse A. Stoff, Integrative medicine of NY, nor any individual or practitioner associated with the publishing of this article is not liable for any damages resulting from the use of the information on this article. As a visitor of this blogsite, you acknowledge and agree that any reliance on or use by you of any information available on this Internet web site shall be entirely at your own risk. In no event shall the owner or operator be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential or exemplary damages arising from the use or the performance of this Internet web site, even if the owner or operator has been advised of the possibility of such damages. While every attempt has been made to verify the information on this website, neither the owners, distributors, agents, publishers or their affiliates assume any responsibility or liability for any error, inaccuracies, omissions in the same, or related to results from use of these materials. No party is liable for any direct, incidental, consequential, indirect, or punitive damages arising out of your access to, or use of this blogsite and the contents herein.

Sponsors:

www.911cancerscan.com

www.AwarenessforaCure.org

www.NYCRAlliance.org

Monday, September 10, 2018

Cancer Experts & Survivors Join to Form Screening Program For 9/11 First Responders

Next-Generation Cancer Imaging expert Dr. Robert Bard plus a list of cancer resource colleagues from NYCRA (NY Cancer Resource Alliance) helped establish a new joint effort to bring public awareness and alternative treatment options to the many first responders and survivors of the WTC disaster. Aptly called "9/11CANCERSCAN" (911cancerscan.com), Dr. Bard's collaborative project is part of a public outreach crusade to support the patient philosophy of "the second opinion", prompting the many exposed potential victims to pursue continued monitoring & screening in response to the growing list of cancer cases that are just now beginning to appear- as reported by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and other government health orgs.

9/11 CancerScan's alliance of caregivers include survivors-turned crusaders, publishers, cancer researchers, environmental advocates, medical specialists and legal experts. Together, they share and promote awareness and offer information about new solutions that the average survivor may not be privy to. To name a few, advancements in health and treatment options are now available such as:

CLINICAL ONCO-IMMUNOLOGY
REGENERATIVE (STEM) CELL THERAPY
HOLISTIC & NUTRITIONAL HEALTH TREATMENTS
and non-invasive innovations in "LIQUID BIOPSY" & DNA/GENETIC TESTING

The 9/11 CancerScan project is designed to help all toxin-exposed individuals by promoting a proactive mindset about staying healthy and having regular screenings regardless of prior checkups. "Having read the CDC reports about the many surprise cancer cases and illnesses stemming from 9/11, I needed to arm myself with as much information on what to do, where to go and what's available. They say the attacks were a life changer for us all... being diagnosed over 15 years after that day tells us that we are still being attacked, this time from inside our bodies!", states outreach volunteer & co-publisher Lisa Vento-Nielsen of Staten Island.

Dr. Bard established his Cancer radiology practice in NYC (1974) and has since published countless texts about cancer diagnostics and contributed to the advancement of imaging techniques worldwide. By 2013, news broke of unique and aggressive cases of CANCER arising in droves. The same individuals exposed to the toxic fumes and plumes of hazardous particles of the danger zone contracted aggressive cases of CANCER and were in immediate demand for medical care and support. Dr. Bard's practice (who already had his share of patients in the first responder community) faced the next wave of health concerns and possible symptoms from exposure to the WTC toxic dust.

Dr. Bard's personal connection with the late James Zadroga in 1992 (the Zadroga Compensation Act was established (2011) helped inspire the mission to conduct new research and publish new awareness about the "new cancer cases" that are expected by many to arise. "By virtue of the fact that government legislation is in place to ensure that those exposed to the 9/11 disaster continue to receive monitoring and treatment services for health problems at least until 2090 is telling of the current situation and pending cases", says Bard.

With the seemingly never ending health cases, more and more alliances continue to form in support of the many 9/11 victims-- including expert 9/11 legal resource such as Mr. Michael Barasch of Barasch & McGarry, who continues to help the many survivors to properly receive the benefits of the WTC Health Program and the Victims Compensation Fund by first getting certified. "Respiratory illnesses were the most common illnesses but NOW it is cancer," states Mr. Barasch. "Miraculously, nobody died during the rescue and recovery operation, although they're certainly dying now... the WTC Health Program Reported that over 10,000 people in the 9/11 community have been diagnosed and certified with WTC cancers and more than 2,000 people have had their deaths linked to the 68 cancers." (see M. Barasch's complete interview )

In pursuit of the outreach spirit of NYCRA's parent org Awareness for a Cure (awarenessforacure.org), a non-profit supporter of all local cancer foundations, the 911CancerScan allies continue to work together in support the fight against cancer.

9/11 MESOTHELIOMA CASE

EXTRA:

BARD CANCER DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING (NYC) has isolated and scanned countless cases of cancers using the most advanced diagnostic imaging technologies worldwide. His technology provides early detection and real-time "digital biopsies" of many tumor types using 4D Doppler innovations bringing accuracy and expedience to the most comprehensive report- within MINUTES. For patients, this advantage that cuts down & eliminates the wait time, travel (to multiple diagnostic centers) and reduces the insurmountable level of stress and intolerable problems of today’s increasing medical bureaucracy. This innovation is identified by medical associations to outperform the advantages of MRI, X-ray and CT scans by as much as 20-to-1. Dr. Bard's services were recently utilized during the terror attack in Nice, France where-x-ray and CT services were overwhelmed.

References:
https://www.cdc.gov/wtc/ataglance.html#memberZadroga
https://www1.nyc.gov/site/911health/enrollees/9-11-health-and-compensation-act-faq.page
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/sep/11/9-11-illnesses-death-toll
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4686342/
https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp068287
https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2015-12/documents/wtc_report_20030821.pdf

Wednesday, September 5, 2018

Introducing IvyGene: "Patient-Friendly" Advancement in Early Cancer Detection

"...the term 'cancer' is not a singular enemy; its a single term to represent hundreds of different cancer types-- all unique to their location in the body and their origin, and that makes screening/treating them a very specialized and a highly customized procedure." Howard Prince, research specialist & patient advocate

Early detection and prevention pursuits have driven our medical community to invest heavily on the advancement of cancer screenings for every individual type of cancer. So exists specialized scanning processes and tools such as colonoscopy, tomography, mammograms, mri's, PSA tests, PET Scans, skin exams- just to name a few.

Recently, a new form of blood test by LAM (Laboratory for Advanced Medicine) can confirm the presence of cancer as early as stage 1. It provides measurable data in the form of a score to make it easier to understand- while confirming the presence of cancer early, when it can be more easily managed and treated. The score can be used as a baseline to measure treatment effectiveness.

CANCER INDICATORS FROM A "SIMPLE BLOOD TEST"

Among the growing list of cancer treatment professionals and practices who subscribe to IvyGene’ s innovative screening capacity is clinical immunologist Dr. Jesse Stoff of Integrative Medicine of NY in Westbury. As an integrative practitioner, Dr. Stoff is committed to staying on top of the latest in cancer treatment solutions available. "IvyGene is similar to a liquid biopsy in terms of the technology. It is based on next-gen technology & next-gen sequencing," says Dr. Stoff. "(For my purposes), I use this test for people who don't have signs of cancer because it takes on average 10 years for cancer to go from a few cancer cells into a destructive tumor. And during that 10 year period of time these abnormal cells are firing off pieces of genetic material into the blood stream as these cells die. And die they do because cancer cells are genetically unstable. That's part of the definition of cancer. The problem is they multiply faster than they die. So, that's how you get in trouble. As the cells die, they release material into the bloodstream that the IvyGene test is designed to pick up and act as an early warning where something is starting to grow someplace you need to pay attention to."

According to an interview with LAM representative Caleb Allen, "...our mission is to make cancer testing available and affordable for everyone. We work closely with thousands of physicians nationwide to provide early cancer confirmation and save lives sooner. Unlike many genetic tests that use DNA to determine the propensity or possibility of developing cancer over time, the IvyGene test confirms actual disease presence at the time of testing."

COMMON USES OF IVYGENE

Physicians who accepted the use of IvyGene to confirm cancer presence typically suggests it's use if the patient:

has genetic propensity for development of cancer
has suspicious imaging (PET, Mammo, CT) and needs confirmation
has had cancer in the past, IvyGene monitors for remission
is undergoing cancer treatment now
is experiencing under-diagnosed health issues

SCIENCE: Using highly advanced technology, the team identified specific gene targets in human DNA that correlate with cancer presence. Then, the IvyGene technology measures certain ratios at those specific gene targets. This results in a simple score that is either (a) elevated and consistent with the presence of cancer or (b) “normal” and not consistent with cancer presence.

See video insert from Overview of theIvyGene Science

THE LAB KIT TREND: PUBLICLY AFFORDABLE & ACCESSIBLE

A recent trend in testing kits commercially distributed to physicians and/or direct to the consumer, are changing the way patients are receiving treatment and billed. Packaging lab testing services from anywhere in the country through a portable (mailable) transport kit is a most cost effective and efficient way to expand public access to and from any specialized lab service(s). This kit-concept allows access of a specialized lab from anywhere in the country to partner with any clinic or practice. This streamlines the retrieval and delivery of acquired blood samples to the designated lab and greatly eliminating a number of steps and "overhead" expenses. Instead of building a high-priced lab in each city, county or state, there is now just once central lab for the entire country.

CANCER DETECTION FOR FIREFIGHTERS
A firefighter's emergency rescue work often brings exposure to a wide range of hazardous (and potentially carcinogenic) substances. A recent study from the IAFF shows a significant percentage of firefighters will be diagnosed with cancer at some point during their lifetime. Others studies indicate that firefighters are up to 2X at risk for developing certain cancers. It is for this reason that 911CancerScan.com and its clinical partners including Integrative Medicine of NY helped to publicly introduce genetic testing protocols and such scanning/diagnostic innovations as the IvyGene solution to the community. Originally founded for 9/11 survivors and victims, the 911CancerScan program brings informational and resource access to any and all first responders to address this health risk. See the Firefighter Cancer Support Network website for more information. Firefightercancersupport.org. Also see the recent report from WFAA, Dallas, regarding cancer and prevention policies for Firefighters: http://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/dallas-fire-rescue-to-adopt-new-cancer-prevention-policies/287-535261862

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Friday, August 31, 2018

9/11 REMEMBRANCE SERIES 2: Richard Marrone and the 9/11 Cancer Resource Group

9/11 REMEMBRANCE SERIES (pt2)
Written by: Lizbieta Sansal & Carmen R. Dewitt (Editorial staff @ AwarenessforaCure.org)

Richard Marrone is a career veteran with the NY Fire Department, an active Emergency Medical Technician for the FDNY and a first responder at 9/11. He spent a significant amount of time in Ground Zero since the attack treating all responders and civilian victims while being directly exposed to the deadly air and toxic dust that affected (and continue to affect) so many thousands. His 9/11 experiences alongside all his colleagues in the FDNY, NYPD and other city workers who risked their very lives and well-being are now part of an ongoing health concern as supported by The James L. Zadroga 9/11 Health & Compensation Act and public programs like the WTC Health program and the Victims Compensation Fund alongside an extensive list of other dedicated organizations. (see list of charitable funds).

IGNITING THE NEW 9/11 CANCER RESOURCE MISSION

In June of 2018, Mr. Marrone and wife Gina volunteered at an LI2DAY breast cancer fundraiser in Shirley, Long Island. They were assigned to manage the raffle table where one of the prizes was a cancer screening at an advanced cancer imaging facility @ Bard Cancer Diagnostics endorsed by Awareness for a Cure (AFAC) and the NY Cancer Resource Alliance (NYCRA). As caregivers to cancer survivors, it did not take long for the Marrones to engage the medical sponsors and inquire about the scanning technology on the raffle table-- a 3D/4D Doppler Ultrasonic Cancer program donated and conducted Dr. Robert bard himself (one of the industry’s pioneers in advanced cancer imaging technology.)

As a city employee, Mr. Marrone was part of the first groups to be certified with the World Trade Center Health Program. Moreover, he maintained a proactive level of caution about regular checkups in response to the high levels of toxicity potential carcinogens in the 9/11 dust that plagued everyone exposed. He expressed even more concern about the many new “surprise” cancer cases that are now beginning to appear, 15+ years later. Being an EMT as well as having continued health concerns from his experiences in Ground Zero, Mr. Marrone’s interest and personal insight to the concerns of ALL responders led to deeper exchange with the cancer imaging directors and soon became the establishment of a major public health outreach project and support network called the 911CancerScan program. "Being a ground zero worker seems like we all have this life-long target on our backs that at any given moment, something is going to hit us - we just don't know WHEN", says Mr. Marrone. "The best thing you could do for yourself is to stay on top of your checkups, keep asking a lot of questions and stay alert for trends in the news as far as what's in recent health reports."

(See more about GETTING CERTIFIED)

BUILT AND INSPIRED BY CAREGIVERS

AFAC co-founder Dr. Jesse Stoff and other medical colleagues gained tremendous understanding from the public presence of organizations such as the FealGood Foundation (an international advocacy and fundraising group for 9/11 responders) and united more allies to better reach and help the many survivors of the WTC disaster. As part of a collaborative effort, Dr. Stoff witnessed firsthand a new influx of cancer patients in his office and in the news as a sign of the impending "dormant cancers" finally coming out.

Another connection who contributed valuable insight to the establishment of this 9/11 Cancer resource was Mr. Michael Barasch (of Barasch & McGarry, NYC) - a seasoned attorney whose career became focused on the many related cases affected by ground zero. Mr. Barasch is recognized in the community for his extensive knowledge, his guidance and support in helping individuals get certified towards receiving the right healthcare and compensation. His law firm is busier than ever because of the (still) unreported victims who need certification and the many new cases of cancer and other types of illnesses from 9/11.

"I know that there was a latency period", says Mr. Barasch. "There's a real danger because while the Heath Program was reauthorized for 70 years, the victim fund, the compensation fund was only authorized for five years, and it's going to expire at the end of 2020. Well, guess what? The doctors tell me and I'm seeing it in my office, people continue to get sick, to get cancers, and to die at alarming rates... Congress has to do the right thing by extending the victim compensation fund, because people aren't going to stop getting sick, they're certainly not going to stop dying. So we've got to take care of these families whose spouse, whose father, whose husband, or whatever it is... the only thing these people did wrong was believe the EPA when they said the area is safe."

Empowered by the strength of an alliance with such experienced crusaders came a local outreach effort and the published reports of new numbers of cancer cases from the CDC indicating the rising health risks to all 9/11 related patients. AFAC also began connecting with more and more responders (firefighters in particular) in part to review the community’s well-being with regard to the many public and private treatment options they have undergone.

RAISING GILDA & "THE SECOND OPINION PROGRAM"

Another ingredient that helped establish the 911CancerScan program design was inspired by various non-profit foundations. Gilda’s Club of NYC, an endorsed partner of AFAC carried the legacy of the late Gilda Radner and her worldwide message of patient advocacy. Director Lennard Gettz crafted a program uniting this message of seeking efficient professionals with advanced credentials and offering greater resources to provide alternative support (alongside all existing solutions) and a SECOND OPINION with the hopes of bringing new answers to those touched by cancer. It is this very philosophy that helped to drive the introduction of modalities such as Cancer Immunology, Insulin Potentiation Therapy, Chelation Therapy, Genetic Testing and a host of other non-invasive advancements and innovations that are outside of the conventional menu of clinical cancer treatments.

Patient advocacy responds to anyone concerned about pending illnesses (like Cancer) or have been recently diagnosed. The 9/11 CancerScan program was established to support the philosophy of THE SECOND OPINION. For anyone curious about what other treatment options another oncologist might prescribe, this program invites the opportunity to safely receive one of a variety of advanced diagnostic scanning or (non-invasive) screening exams and get a fresh new diagnostic perspective to your health status. For any patient seeking peace of mind or at least a wider perspective on a major commitment as cancer care, this additional resource brings added confidence and more intelligent decision-making by expanding the list of professional options on the patient's side.

(End of Part 1)