Cancer Prevention » Integrative Oncology Essentials

CoQ 10 may reduce the risk of developing melanoma and reduce recurrence

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 10:36 am

Apr 232012

Reports indicate anticancer activity with higher blood levels of CoQ 10 (reduced risk of melanoma development, recurrence and progression.) Why do we rarely hear about this? Very few human studies have been conducted to confirm these findings. (imagine that…no profit potential…no money to conduct this study)

What is CoQ 10?

CoQ 10 (also known as: coenzyme Q10, Q10, Vitamin Q10, Ubiquinone, Ubiquinol, Ubidecarenone) is an important protein made by the body, that is involved in cellular metabolism (converting the energy from fats and sugars into usable cellular energy) and as a protective antioxidant.

CoQ 10 stimulates the immune system

Numerous studies have reported on the immune stimulating effects of CoQ 10, although the mechanisms involved in this physiologic activity are not known.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1673841?dopt=Abstract

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10416052?dopt=Abstract

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/101414?dopt=Abstract

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/5478631?dopt=Abstract

CoQ 10 can suppress cancer cell growth

The mechanisms involved in this anticancer activity are not known.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/4218125?dopt=Abstract

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/653103?dopt=Abstract

CoQ 10 protects the heart from chemotherapy injury

Studies have demonstrated that CoQ 10 can protect heart tissue from the potentially damaging effects of a commonly used class of chemotherapy drugs, called anthracyclines (i.e. doxorubicin).

CoQ 10 blood levels correlate with the risk of developing melanoma

Researchers prospectively followed 117 early stage (none with metastatic disease) melanoma patients and 125 healthy volunteers (control group), and they discovered some remarkable differences. First, the CoQ 10 levels were significantly lower in patients than in control group. Second, those with CoQ 10 levels less than 0.6 mg/L (low) had a 790% increased risk of developing metastatic disease compared with those patients who had higher levels of CoQ 10; the time to develop metastases was also almost double in patients with CoQ 10 levels 0.6 mg/L or higher! Among the 82 melanoma patients with a low CoQ 10 level (less than 0.6 mg/L), 17 of them died during the study period…whereas, none of the patients with higher CoQ 10 levels died.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16443053

CoQ 10 has been reported to enhance the efficacy of interferon therapy for melanoma

One of the standard therapies for use in patients with advanced stages of melanoma (stages 3-4) is an immune stimulating agent, interferon (IFN). IFN stimulates the immune system to recognize and attack melanoma cells. Patients with early stage disease (stages 1-2) are not typically recommended to receive IFN after surgery, as this drug is difficult for many patients to tolerate due to various side effects and the potential benefit in reducing the risk of recurrence has not well-established in these early stages.

One enterprising group of oncologists postulated that by giving CoQ 10 to those with early stage melanoma, they might be able to further stimulate the immune system. What they found was incredible:

In their study, they gave 32 patients with early stage (stage 1-2) melanoma IFN (2 injections per day of 600,000 IU) plus 400mg per day of CoQ10 for 3 years after surgery, while 49 received only interferon. The patients were monitored for five years after their treatment ended. They reported that the patients who received the IFN + CoQ10 had a reduction in their risk of developing metastases by 10-times compared with those who received only IFN. Furthermore, the IFN + CoQ 10 patients had far fewer IFN-related side effects compared with the IFN only patients; 22% versus 82%, respectively.

Other cancers that might benefit from CoQ 10 supplementation:

Very small studies and case reports have suggested that CoQ 10 may help some cancer patients live longer, including patients with cancers of the breast, pancreas, lung, colon, rectum, and prostate. Although these reports are promising, they are unfortunately not high-quality studies, therefore not much weight can be placed on these results.

Note of caution…don’t take CoQ 10 during radiation therapy:

A mouse study demonstrated reduced anticancer activity of radiation therapy when supplemented with CoQ 10. Radiation therapy works by creating free radicals in cancer cells, which then interact with the DNA and cause cell death. It is believed that by supplementing with a potent antioxidant, such as CoQ 10, the free radicals created by radiation therapy will be diminished along with its’ anticancer efficacy. Read my review article on this in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.

CoQ 10 side effects:

None-to-mild side effects, including mild insomnia, elevated liver enzymes, rashes, nausea, upper abdominal pain/heartburn, dizziness, sensitivity to light, irritability, headache, and fatigue.

Commonly prescribed medications can lower CoQ 10 levels:

Lipid lowering medications (such as lovastatin, pravastatin, simvastatin, gemfibrozil) and the oral diabetes medications (such as glyburide and tolazamide) are well-known to reduce CoQ 10 levels. Patients taking these medications should discuss with their primary care physician supplementation with CoQ 10.

Cautionary effects of CoQ 10:

CoQ 10 may reduce the efficacy of warfarin.

CoQ 10 may reduce insulin requirements in diabetics.

As CoQ 10 has not been exhaustively researched with every chemotherapy agent or combination of agents (it’s never going to happen), recognize that there is a possibility of interactions that can either increase or decrease the anticancer effectiveness of the chemotherapy agent. Always discuss any use of supplements with your oncology team prior to using them.

Dosing:

There are no established dosing guidelines. In human studies, supplementation doses and administration schedules have varied, but usually have been in the range of 90 to 390 mg/day (most common recommendation: 100-200 mg/day)

Most absorbable form of CoQ 10:

Ubiquinol absorbs up to 8 times greater than ubiquinone, and higher levels of ubiquinol remain in the blood far longer than ubiquinone.

CoQ 10 is fat soluble. It is more effectively absorbed when taken with a meal (particularly with lipids).

Additional Resources:

National Cancer Institute PDQ: CoQ 10

About Herbs, Botanicals and Other Products (Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center): CoQ 10

Wikipedia; CoQ 10

Medline Plus (National Library of Medicine): CoQ 10

CoQ 10 and Cancer Treatment (Life Extension)**although I like many of their products, this is still a supplement company**

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Anticancer Nutrition: Protein 101

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 1:42 pm

Apr 162012

The main point on protein is that you want to consume as much of your daily protein requirements from a variety of low fat sources, such as legumes (beans, peas, lentils, soy, nuts and nut butters), deep, cold-water fish (salmon, sardines, mackerel, cod), poultry (skin removed) and whey (a milk protein.) You don’t have to completely eliminate dairy and meat (particularly, red meat: beef, pork, lamb) from your diet to live an anticancer lifestyle, but you will need to limit the quantity you consume. Increasingly, the results of numerous studies are consistently suggesting that the most healthful overall diet (anti-cancer, anti-diabetes, anti-cardiovascular disease, anti-inflammatory, [...read more...]

Anticancer Nutrition: Fats 101

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 4:27 pm

Apr 092012

Dietary fats are essential components of our daily nutritional intake, but the amount and type of fats have a large impact on the development of cancer, cardiovascular disease, systemic inflammation, oxidation, immunity and numerous other important aspects of health and disease. This article provides a basic understanding of the various dietary fats and their relevance in anticancer nutrition. General Recommendations: Limit total fat intake and avoid trans fats Increase your intake of foods high in omega-3s (i.e. cold-water, deep sea fish and nuts, flax seed) Limit foods that are higher in omega-6 fatty acids (grain-fed animal meat) Avoid foods that [...read more...]

Anticancer Nutrition: Sugar & Insulin 101

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 12:45 am

Apr 042012

Anticancer Nutrition: Sugar & Insulin 101

The Basics: How does insulin work? In a healthy person, insulin helps turn food into energy — in an efficient manner. The stomach breaks down carbohydrates from food into sugars, including glucose. Glucose then enters the bloodstream, which stimulates the pancreas to release insulin in just the right amount. Insulin, a hormone, allows glucose to enter cells throughout the body, where it is used as fuel. Excess glucose is stored in the liver. What is IGF-1 (Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1)? IGF-1 is an important protein (hormone) that stimulates cells (including many cancer cells) to grow and is involved in multiple aspects of [...read more...]

Anticancer Nutrition: 7 Important Anti-Cancer Diet Tips

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 5:28 pm

Apr 032012

Anticancer Nutrition: 7 Important Anti-Cancer Diet Tips

Point #1: Limit The Amount Of Fat In Your Diet Studies suggest that diets higher in the bad fats: Increase the risk of developing cancer (especially more aggressive cancers) and cancer progression. Suppress the immune system and increase inflammation in the body. Increase the risk of dying from numerous cancers (i.e. breast, prostate, colorectal, lung) Bad fats include the trans fats (partially and fully hydrogented fats) and saturated fats: Try to limit your intake of saturated fats to 5-10% of your total daily calories. Transfats are bad. There is no reason to ever consume them. The risk of breast cancer almost [...read more...]

What Is Integrative Oncology? (Free Patient Guide)

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 3:17 pm

Apr 032012

What Is Integrative Oncology? (**Free Patient Guide**)

Integrative Oncology uses the best evidence-based treatments (i.e. surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, acupuncture, massage, stress reduction, herbal/botanicals, etc.) with the following goals: Treating the cancer Preventing recurrence Reducing side effects and symptoms Integrative Oncology encourages living a healthy lifestyle to help the body in its’ innate abilities to fight and prevent cancer. This can be accomplished by learning strategies to reduce stress, increasing physical activity and eating healthfully (“anti-cancer diet & nutrition.”) Practicing these lifestyle changes leads to beneficial “anti-cancer” effects: Strengthening the immune system Decreasing inflammation throughout the body Reducing (free radical) oxidative damage to cells Decreasing hormonal stimulation of cancer cells Treatments are selected using a customized approach for each person [...read more...]

One of the best videos you will see on integrative oncology & living an “anti-cancer” lifestyle

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 1:19 pm

Mar 142012

One of the best videos you will see on integrative oncology & living an "anti-cancer" lifestyle

Dr. David Servan-Schreiber was one of the most influential physicians in our field of integrative oncology, and in this wonderful lecture you will learn why. His book, Anti-Cancer: A New Way Of Life, remains an international best-seller and one that I recommend to most of my patients. If you are interested in learning about integrative oncology and how to reduce your risk of cancer development, recurrence and progression, I strongly recommend you watch this video. This lecture is worth your time, and it will blow your mind. You can find the latest edition (December 31, 2009) of his book [...read more...]

Consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids reduces fatigue & inflammation in breast cancer survivors

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 6:58 pm

Mar 132012

Consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids reduces fatigue & inflammation in breast cancer survivors

A new study, reported in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, found that breast cancer survivors have less fatigue if they consumed higher quantities of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (a major component of an “anti-inflammatory diet“). The researchers studied the potential effects of dietary omega-3 versus omega-6 in a population of 633 breast cancer survivors. Specifically, the authors wanted to know if a higher intake of omega-3 foods has a beneficial impact on fatigue, a common complaint of breast cancer survivors. Cancer related fatigue is thought to be due, in large part, to systemic inflammation that occurs as a [...read more...]

Would you change your lifestyle if you knew you had silent (occult) cancer cells hiding in your body?

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 1:55 pm

Jan 302012

Would you change your lifestyle if you knew you had silent (occult) cancer cells hiding in your body?

I ask this question based on the fact that we know that cancer cells often spread early in the course of disease and they can remain silent (occult or hidden) for years. The Background: Among women with the earliest stage of invasive breast cancer (stage 1), 25% of them already have breast cancer cells that can be found in their bone marrow. (reference) Among men with the earliest stages of prostate cancer (pT2, no lymph node involvement, Gleason scores </=6, PSA </=4 ng/mL), over 70% of them have prostate cancer cells that can be found in their bone marrow. Even [...read more...]

Employing a multi-pronged anticancer approach using natural supplements and whole foods

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 11:52 am

Dec 022011

Employing a multi-pronged anticancer approach using natural supplements and whole foods

The data supporting anticancer activity in natural supplements is extensive. Unfortunately, oncologists and patients are hampered by the paucity of high-quality clinical trials in deciding which supplements might improve clinical outcomes. Designing and conducting these studies is expensive and will take many years before we have answers (i.e. which supplements work for which cancers, what doses are effective, how do they interact with other therapies/compounds, etc.) These studies can be done and must be done, but what do we do in the meantime? Most oncologists suggest to their patients that they simply consume a diet containing a wide-variety of phytonutrient [...read more...]

Vitamin E: Is it safe for men anymore?

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 5:17 pm

Oct 142011

In light of the recently reported SELECT study, many patients are asking this question. Here is my short response: The data from the recently reported SELECT trial show a 17% increased risk of developing prostate cancer with 400 IU’s of vitamin E per day (but no difference in risk when men took both selenium and vitamin E vs. placebo). No data have yet been reported on the baseline serum levels of alpha-tocopherol among the men in this trial, which will be quite important. Researchers are scratching their heads trying to understand these counterintuitive data. Conflicting data: The data from [...read more...]

Amazing anti-cancer compound derived from the French Lilac: Galega officianalis (metformin)

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 12:39 pm

Aug 292011

Amazing anti-cancer compound derived from the French Lilac: Galega officianalis (metformin)

Metformin is a medication derived from the herb Galega officinalis (French lilac, also known as Goat’s Rue or Italian Fitch) and has been used as a traditional botanical (tea infusion) for over 3,000 years to relieve polyuria (frequent urination) and halitosis (sweet odor on the breath), both are now well known symptoms of diabetes. Approved for the treatment of hyperglycemia in Britain since the late 1950′s, Canada in the 1970′s and U.S. in 1995, metformin is the most widely prescribed diabetes drugs (over 120 million prescriptions filled yearly worldwide). Although the mechanism of action of metformin in diabetes is only partially understood, metformin treatment [...read more...]

Integrative Oncology: Given the choice, would you really want any other approach to the treatment of cancer?

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 10:51 pm

Jul 102011

Integrative Oncology: Given the choice, would you really want any other approach to the treatment of cancer?

In the “Integrative Oncology-Essentials Blog” (IOE Blog), I have covered a wide-range of topics pertaining to cancer treatment (i.e. from proton beam therapy to botanical medicines), managing side effects and symptoms (i.e. from exercise to acupuncture), identifying and preventing treatment-related complications (i.e. from lymphedema detection to acupuncture treatment for dry mouth), cancer prevention (i.e. from consuming an anti-cancer diet to taking baby aspirin), anti-cancer interventions and lifestyle modifications (i.e. from stress reduction to smoking cessation), and others. From time to time, we need to take a step back and simply review the overall concept of integrative oncology. What Is Integrative Oncology? [...read more...]

Smoking increases the risk of prostate cancer recurrence and death

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 8:31 am

Jun 242011

Smoking increases the risk of prostate cancer recurrence and death

One of the most important studies I have read on prostate cancer was published earlier this week in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health investigated the possible effects of smoking and prostate cancer. They followed a group of over 5,300 men for an average of 8 years after being diagnosed with prostate cancer. They found something VERY surprising. Men who continued to smoke after their diagnosis of prostate cancer (compared to either men who never smoked or who quit 10+ years before their diagnosis) had much worse outcomes. They had: a [...read more...]

Mushrooms: Promising natural anti-cancer and immune modulatory effects

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 3:24 pm

Apr 182011

Mushrooms: Promising natural anti-cancer and immune modulatory effects

The medicinal use of mushrooms have been employed for over 3,000 years in the treatment of many conditions. Hundreds of peer-reviewed studies have been published indicating the wide-range of positive health effects of fungi (click on this link to see a breakdown of effects for various mushroom species), with much of the research focusing on varieties more commonly found in Asia. Human studies have found: immune stimulating/enhancing effects stimulation of cytotoxic T cells and enhanced natural killer (NK) cell activity anti-viral effects (active against: herpes, human papilloma virus, Epstein Barr virus) anti-bacterial effects anti-cancer effects (i.e. pro-apoptosis, anti-angiogenic, inhibition of [...read more...]

Learn more about prostate cancer and nutrition: the same concepts apply to most cancers and are an integral component of integrative oncology

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 4:11 pm

Mar 122011

Learn more about prostate cancer and nutrition: the same concepts apply to most cancers and are an integral component of integrative oncology

I was asked to give a short talk on this topic recently. Although it was specifically targeted to an audience interested in learning more about the role of nutrition and prostate cancer, the concepts broadly apply for most cancers. One of the most important slides is the one that highlights the fact that the “anti-cancer” diet is similar to the “heart-healthy” diet, “anti-aging” diet, “anti-diabetes” diet, “anti-Alzheimer’s” diet, “anti-inflammatory” diet, etc… (the point being: if you are following any one of these diets, you are reducing your risk of of various diseases.) Read the presentation here: Dr. Mark Moyad (University [...read more...]

New 2010 USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans: Reduce your risk of cancer development, recurrence and progression.

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 4:18 pm

Feb 052011

*New* 2010 USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans: Reduce your risk of cancer development, recurrence and progression.

The USDA published its’ updated dietary guidelines in late January 2011. The latest USDA dietary recommendations incorporates most of the same recommendations that are touted under different names: “Heart healthy diet” “Anti-cancer diet” “Anti-aging diet” “Anti-Alzheimer’s disease diet” “Anti-inflammatory diet” “Anti-diabetes diet” “Mediterranean diet” “Japanese diet” …and the list goes on… In summary, these are the recommendations: Consume less total fat (especially saturated fat) Maintain a healthy caloric balance (through a combined approach of calorie intake and physical activity) Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables, beans and grains Decrease your intake of processed foods, simple carbohydrates (i.e. refined sugars, [...read more...]

Integrative Oncology Basics: download the NEW 2011 free guide on integrative oncology cancer care and prevention

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 3:50 pm

Jan 102011

Integrative Oncology Basics: download the *NEW 2011* free guide on integrative oncology cancer care and prevention

Welcome to INTEGRATIVE ONCOLOGY-ESSENTIALS (IOE). My name is Dr. Brian Lawenda, and I am one of only a handful of physicians in the United States who is a radiation oncologist, integrative oncologist and medical acupuncturist. I developed the IOE WEBSITE, BLOG and the Integrative Oncology Essentials: A Patients’ Guide To Cancer Care And Prevention as a means of sharing up to date “Integrative Oncology” news, information and resources with my patients. I hope that this content is helpful to anyone living with or beyond a diagnosis of cancer.” Download the new 2011 guide here. Become a FAN to follow us [...read more...]

Typical U.S. diet (high fat and cholesterol) increases breast cancer development and progression by 50% (in mice)!!

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 12:38 pm

Jan 072011

Typical U.S. diet (high fat and cholesterol) increases breast cancer development and progression by 50% (in mice)!!

A fascinating study (published in The American Journal of Pathology, in January 2011) reported that when placed on a diet of 21% fat and 0.2% cholesterol (similar to the typical diet in the U.S.), there was a 50% increase in the size and number of breast cancer tumors in mice (with a genetic proclivity for developing breast cancer) compared to those mice who were placed on a low-fat diet (4.5% fat) with negligible cholesterol. This study, albeit a mouse experiment, is still very intriguing and is consistent with findings from other groups (suggesting that diets higher in saturated fats lead [...read more...]

Dying from prostate or colorectal cancer is reduced by up to 61% with exercise!!

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 4:57 pm

Jan 062011

Dying from prostate or colorectal cancer is reduced by up to 61% with exercise!!

Harvard researchers (reporting in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, in January 2011) discovered that men with a diagnosis of prostate cancer who exercised at least 3-hours each week decreased their risk of dying from prostate cancer by 61% compared to those who exercised less than 1-hour per week. Additionally, performing 3 or more hours of exercise each week conveyed a 46% reduction in risk of dying of any cause. Although the authors stated that these results were limited to those who performed ”vigorous” physical activity for at least 3-hours each week, participating in less vigorous exercise (i.e. walking, jogging, biking, gardening) for even 15-minutes each [...read more...]

Who is at risk and who should be tested for the most common genetic colorectal and uterine cancer syndrome (HNPCC/Lynch Syndrome)?

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 6:23 pm

Jan 052011

Who is at risk and who should be tested for the most common genetic colorectal and uterine cancer syndrome (HNPCC/Lynch Syndrome)?

The vast majority of individuals with a diagnosis of colorectal (and/or endometrial/uterine) cancer do not have a inherited gene mutation. Most cancers develop sporadically without any familial association. However, if you or members of your immediate family have been diagnosed with colorectal and/or endometrial (uterine) cancer, you may be at risk of carrying a genetic mutation (called, “Lynch Syndrome” or “Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer” or “HNPCC“.) HNPCC/Lynch syndrome is reported to be present in up to 4% of all individuals diagnosed with colorectal cancer and in up to 5% of all women who have been diagnosed with endometrial (uterine) cancer. [...read more...]

Who should consider genetic testing (BRCA1/2) for hereditary breast and/or ovarian cancers?

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 6:06 am

Dec 222010

Who should consider genetic testing (BRCA1/2) for hereditary breast and/or ovarian cancers?

The vast majority of cancers occur by chance, but a small percentage are related to inherited genetic abnormalities or mutations. In cases of hereditary breast and/or ovarian cancers, most occur as a result of mutations in either the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes (this is called “hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome” or “HBOC syndrome”.) These gene mutations can be inherited from your mother or father. What are the risks associated with the presence of a BRCA gene mutation? In women (lifetime risk): up to an 87% risk of developing breast cancer up to a 44% risk of developing ovarian cancer [...read more...]

One “baby aspirin” per day cuts cancer death risk by up to 60%

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 8:57 am

Dec 072010

One "baby aspirin" per day cuts cancer death risk by up to 60%

A study (published in the journal, Lancet, December 2010) reports that compared with placebo, taking 75 mg of aspirin per day (one baby aspirin=81 mg) for 4 years or more reduced the risk of dying from a variety of common cancers. These results were identified through a meta-analysis of 8 placebo-controlled randomized trials (comparing placebo vs. aspirin), in 25,570 patients. These studies were designed to explore the long-term effects of aspirin. They found the following risk reduction in cancer deaths: prostate cancer (10% risk reduction) lung cancer (30% risk reduction) colon, rectal, pancreatic, and stomach cancers (40% risk reduction) esophageal [...read more...]

Getting adequate sleep may improve your ability to fight cancer

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 5:02 pm

Nov 262010

Getting adequate sleep may improve your ability to fight cancer

Did you know that getting less than 6-7 hours of sleep each night has been associated with physiologic changes that lead to increased risk of stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity and stress…and possibly cancer development and progression. In fact, a new study finds that short sleep durations are associated with a significantly increased risk of pre-cancerous colon polyps (published in Cancer, in October 2010.) Multiple factors are at thought to play a role when one is chronically sleep deprived: Increased production of inflammatory molecules (“cytokines” and “prostaglandins”) that: Stimulate angiogenesis (blood vessel formation) which can supply oxygen and nutrients to allow tumors [...read more...]

Green tea has no effect on breast cancer prevention: questions remain unanswered about other potential anti-cancer effects of green tea.

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 2:52 pm

Oct 282010

Green tea has no effect on breast cancer prevention: questions remain unanswered about other potential anti-cancer effects of green tea.

An excellent study (published in October 2010, in Breast Cancer Research) reported that consumption of green tea provides no benefit in reducing the risk of developing breast cancer. The authors examined the prospectively collected data on 53,793 women, in Japan, who provided information on their level of consumption of green tea over a 5-year study period. They looked at various factors to determine if there were any subcategories of women who might have experienced a reduced risk of of developing breast cancer, but they could not find any correlations (i.e. demographics, amount of green tea consumed, type of tea consumption, [...read more...]

History of prostate cancer? Get a colonoscopy! Your risk of precancerous colon polyps is significantly elevated compared to those without a history of prostate cancer.

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 4:43 pm

Oct 242010

History of prostate cancer? Get a colonoscopy! Your risk of precancerous colon polyps is significantly elevated compared to those without a history of prostate cancer.

A new study (presented at the American College of Gastroenterology conference, in October 2010) reviewed the records of 2,000 men who underwent routine colonoscopies at the Buffalo VA Medical Center, and identified 188 men who also had a history of prostate cancer. The authors reported that the men who had a history of prostate cancer had a significantly higher risk of having precancerous colon polyps (48%) compared to those men without a prior history of prostate cancer (30.8%). Even more concerning was that in men with a prior history of prostate cancer, 15.4% had advanced polyps compared to 10% of the [...read more...]

Curcumin (a natural compound in curry) enhances the effects of chemotherapy

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 12:48 pm

Oct 242010

Curcumin (a natural compound in curry) enhances the effects of chemotherapy

Multiple studies have demonstrated the anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin, a natural compound found in the yellow spice, turmeric (used in curry.) Research seems very promising suggesting that adding supplemental curcumin (likely as a high-dose isolated extract) may enhance the anti-cancer effects of certain chemotherapy drugs and possibly radiation therapy. To date, most of the studies have been conducted in petri dishes and in animals. A recently published manuscript (in October 2010, in Molecular Cancer Therapeutics) reported a significant cancer inhibitory effect on implanted head and neck cancer tumors (specifically, squamous cell carcinomas) in mice that were given a [...read more...]

Soy consumption may reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 9:28 pm

Oct 182010

Soy consumption may reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence

A study (published in October 2010, in Canadian Medical Association Journal) reports that postmenopausal women with a prior history of estrogen receptor positive breast cancer had a significantly lower risk (33% less!!) of breast cancer recurrence when they consumed higher quantities of soy foods compared to those women who ate smaller quantities. Estrogen receptor positivity or sensitivity means that the breast cancer is stimulated by estrogen. The authors also reported that he risk of breast cancer recurrence was further reduced in the highest soy consumption patients who were also taking a commonly prescribed hormonal anti-cancer medication (Anastrazole.) In a study [...read more...]

Prostate cancer may be 30% less likely to recur in men on a common cholesterol lowering medication

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 2:18 pm

Jun 282010

Prostate cancer may be 30% less likely to recur in men on a common cholesterol lowering medication

In a study published in late June/early July 2010 (in the journal Cancer) investigators report that men who underwent surgery for prostate cancer and had been taking a common cholesterol lowering medication (“statins”), at the time of surgery, were overall 30% less likely to have a recurrence of their prostate cancer than men who were not taking this medication. On further analysis, the authors describe a dose response relationship in the amount of statin medications taken and the relative risk of cancer recurrence (i.e. the higher the amount of the statin, the lower risk of recurrence.) They found that in those patients [...read more...]

A commonly prescribed osteoporosis medication significantly decreases the risk of developing invasive breast cancer

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 1:00 pm

Jun 232010

A commonly prescribed osteoporosis medication significantly decreases the risk of developing invasive breast cancer

In two large studies, published in June 2010 (in the Journal of Clinical Oncology) investigators report that the use of a class of osteoporosis medications called, “bisphosphonates” significantly reduced the risk of developing invasive breast cancer (approximately 30% risk reduction) in postmenopausal women. These impressive results remained even after controlling for numerous other breast cancer risk factors. (Read More Here) These studies add to previously published data demonstrating multiple anti-cancer effects with bisphosphonates (i.e. reduction in bone metastases, inhibition of tumoral blood vessels, increased tumor cell death and clinical data suggesting decreased recurrence of breast cancer.) This study is important as it suggests that the [...read more...]

Sugar, insulin, diabetes and their association with cancer development and progression

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 11:42 am

Jun 222010

Sugar, insulin, diabetes and their association with cancer development and progression

In an article published, in June 2010, (in CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians) the authors review the science and literature of how sugar, insulin and diabetes are associated with the development and progression of various cancers. These authors consist of a panel of experts from both the American Cancer Society and the American Diabetes Association, who convened a consensus development conference, in Decemeber 2009, to address the following 4 questions: Is there a meaningful association between diabetes and cancer incidence or prognosis? What risk factors are common to both diabetes and cancer? What are possible biologic links between diabetes and [...read more...]

Vitamin D decreases the risk and duration of many viral infections, including the flu and colds

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 7:10 am

Jun 182010

Vitamin D decreases the risk and duration of many viral infections, including the flu and colds

In a study published in June 2010 (in the journal PloS ONE), researchers report that in a group of patients that they followed (198 healthy adults, during the fall and winter 2009-2010) the one’s who had higher vitamin D (25-hydroxyvitamin D) levels (>/=38ng/ml) developed significantly fewer viral infections over the study period than those who had lower levels of vitamin D (17% versus 45%). Additionally, those with the higher levels of vitamin D also experienced significantly fewer days of illness (i.e. in those with influenza: 2 days of illness versus 6 days of illness, for those with the higher vitamin D [...read more...]

Integrative Oncology Essentials: A Patients’ Guide To Cancer Care And Prevention (Free Download!!)

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 5:42 pm

May 312010

Integrative Oncology Essentials: A Patients' Guide To Cancer Care And Prevention (Free Download!!)

I have written a guide (Integrative Oncology Essentials: A Patients’ Guide To Cancer Care And Cancer Prevention) for my patients that covers many of the important topics I address in my integrative oncology lectures and consultations. I am pleased to offer this guide, as a free download (CLICK HERE: IOE Guide_V3). I really hope that the information is helpful to you, your loved ones and anyone who is interested in learning more about using integrative oncology approaches to cancer prevention and cancer care. I would be grateful to hear your comments and suggestions on how to improve future versions of this [...read more...]

Diabetes increases the risk of cancer

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 7:01 pm

May 232010

Increasingly, we are learning that adults with diabetes (particularly, type 2 diabetes or non-insulin dependent diabetes- “NIDDM”) have an increased risk of developing a variety of cancers. Researchers have suggested numerous possible hypotheses to explain this association, but at this time the precise mechanisms remain unknown. To date, this is what we know: 1) The cells of individuals with NIDDM have a significantly reduced ability to take up glucose (sugar) from the blood in response to insulin. The resultant elevated blood glucose levels stimulates the pancreas to further increase the production of insulin, in attempt to signal the cells to [...read more...]

Levels of an estrogen-like chemical (Bisphenol A, or “BPA”) in canned foods is found to be 5-times higher than previously thought

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 11:47 am

May 192010

Levels of an estrogen-like chemical (Bisphenol A, or "BPA") in canned foods is found to be 5-times higher than previously thought

Bisphenol A (or “BPA”) is a chemical preservative that is commonly used in the lining of plastic bottles and food & drink cans. Numerous reports have demonstrated that BPA can leach out of these containers and be absorbed by the body. In fact, more than 90% of individuals within the U.S. have detectable levels of BPA in their body. For many years, the U.S. Food and Drug Adminstration and Environmental Protection Agency stated that BPA was a biologically safe chemical since there was no conclusive evidence to suggest any potential for BPA exhibiting negative effects on healthy cells. At the time, it was assumed that [...read more...]

Social interaction (even over the phone) reduces the body’s response to stress

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 10:44 am

May 122010

Social interaction (even over the phone) reduces the body's response to stress

In a study (published in May 2010, in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B.) investigators have demonstrated that social interaction (over the telephone) after a stressful event significantly decreases amount of stress hormones (cortisol) produced. In this study, a group of 7-12 year-old girls were divided into 3 groups after being exposed to a stressful event (unanticipated speaking in front of a group of strangers and being asked to answer difficult math questions.) The first group was immediately reunited with their mothers, for 15-minutes, for comfort and support (in person.) Afterwards, they watched an emotion-neutral movie, for 60-minutes. The second group spoke to their mothers, [...read more...]

What is Integrative Oncology? I created diagrams to illustrate the holism and complexity of this fascinating subject.

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 4:08 pm

May 072010

What is Integrative Oncology? I created diagrams to illustrate the holism and complexity of this fascinating subject.

Visit the Integrative Oncology-Essentials Website to learn more about the core principles to help prevent cancer development and cancer recurrence. I developed diagrams (CLICK HERE to see in FULL-SIZE) to help explain to my patients the core principles of integrative oncology. It shows the process of how healthy, normal cells transform into cancer cells. They demonstrate how lifestyle and behaviors can influence this process and can be used to decrease one’s risk of cancer development and progression. Importantly, the diagrams show how cancer and its’ treatment can lead to the development and exacerbation of other medical problems (Did you know that most [...read more...]

The number of environmental carcinogens is growing: we need to act now

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 5:06 pm

May 062010

The number of environmental carcinogens is growing: we need to act now

In an excellent (242 page!) advisory report to President Obama (release in May 2010, by the U.S. Presidents Cancer Council, “Reducing Environmental Cancer Risk: What We Can Do Now”) the authors have made a ‘call to action’ for more research on the more than 80,000 chemicals that we are exposed to in our daily lives. They state that many of these chemicals are not regulated and we know very little about their potential carcinogenic effects. This excellent report discuses important issues including our daily exposure to known carcinogenic chemicals and gases in our environment and the lack of public education in how [...read more...]

Progesterone increases the risk of breast cancer metastasis

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 4:44 pm

May 062010

Progesterone increases the risk of breast cancer metastasis

In a study (accepted for publication in May 2006, in Menopause: The Journal of The North American Menopause Society) investigators found the the use of progesterone increased the risk of breast cancer metastases. The authors conducted this study in animals with breast cancer. They noted that progesterone’s effect was not dependent on the menopausal status of the animal nor whether the progesterone was given with or without estrogen. It appeared that progesterone stimulated the production of blood vessels to the tumors, increasing their access to the circulation and the rest of the body. (Read More Here) Millions of women, after [...read more...]

Eat your broccoli: anti-cancer phytonutrients reduce the development and growth of breast cancer cells and tumors

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 3:55 pm

May 042010

Eat your broccoli: anti-cancer phytonutrients reduce the development and growth of breast cancer cells and tumors

In a study (published in May 2010, in Clinical Cancer Research) investigators have discovered that a natural compound found in broccoli, called sulforaphane, was able to significantly decrease the number of breast cancer stem cells (the earliest cancer cells that form tumors) in cell preparation studies and in mouse studies. The authors used a highly concentrated form of this natural compound, derived from broccoli (sulforaphane), to test whether breast cancer stem cells would be able to grow and form tumors. These experiments provide further evidence that supports the anti-cancer properties of eating broccoli. (Read More Here) Sulforaphane is just one [...read more...]

Diabetes doubles the risk of developing colon & rectal cancers

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 10:50 am

May 032010

Diabetes doubles the risk of developing colon & rectal cancers

In a study (presented at the May 2010 American Gastroenterology Association annual meeting) investigators have found that women over the age of 55 who have type-2 diabetes (or “non-insulin dependent diabetes melitus”, NIDDM) have double the risk of developing cancers of colon & rectum that are associated with specific DNA abnormalities that occur in pre-cancerous cells. The authors discovered this linkage between diabetes risk and colorectal cancers when they analyzed the data from a large study (Iowa Women’s Health Study), of over 37,000 women who were enrolled between the ages of 55-69. (Read More Here) One of the anti-cancer principles of integrative [...read more...]

Smoking increases the risk in breast cancer survivors for developing a new breast cancer

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 9:24 am

May 032010

Smoking increases the risk in breast cancer survivors for developing a new breast cancer

In a study (presented at the May 2010 meeting of the American Radium Society) investigators report the results of their analysis of 796 breast cancer survivors who smoked after their treatment for breast cancer. All of these patients received lumpectomy (with or without radiation therapy). The authors found that the rate of developing a new breast cancer (in either the same or opposite breast) and any new cancer was significantly higher in this group of smokers compared to a non-smoking group of breast cancer survivors. (Read More Here) Integrative oncology counseling provides numerous recommendations for cancer survivors that may help to reduce [...read more...]

Short term reduced calorie consumption significantly increases immune function

Posted by Brian Lawenda M.D. at 2:45 pm

May 012010

Short term reduced calorie consumption significantly increases immune function

An interesting study (published in 2009, in the Journal of Gerontology, Biological Sciences) investigated the effects of immune function after a 6-month diet (10-30% calorie reduced) in overweight participants. The authors found that after this short study, the participants developed a significant improvement in their immune function. This is likely related to the biological effects of calorie restriction on individuals who are overweight, leading to hormonal changes that improve immune function. Long-term consumption of higher calorie (fat & carbohydrate) diets seem to be associated with increased risk of developing a wide-range of cancers, cancer progression and recurrence. (Read More Here) [...read more...]