SUMMARY The objective of this protocol on prostate cancer has been to provide specific and critical data that are an integral part of the comprehensive care of a patient with prostate cancer. The use of military metaphor has not been used simply as a literary tool, but more as a unique perspective--a different way of looking at things--that may yield new approaches in thinking about what tactics we could employ in our war against cancer. What may surprise the reader is the enormity of published information that is not routinely incorporated into the prevention and active treatment of prostate cancer. Much of this involves an understanding of what encourages tumor growth and what enhances its rate of growth and its ability to metastasize. The reader is encouraged not to look for a paragraph or two that summarizes all of what has been presented here; this is not realistic. Instead, read one section at a time and ask yourself: "Is this applicable to my situation?" If so, then take this information to your physician(s) and provide him with the appropriate references. Providing information in this manner improves your situation and that of all patients under the care of such physicians. The first part of this protocol dealt with prevention. This is of importance not only to family members (and others) concerned about contracting prostate cancer, but also to patients seeking to slow disease progression and enhance the odds of a successful long-term outcome. As was discussed, many of the lifestyle changes that reduce prostate cancer risk also interfere with existing cancer cell proliferation. Understanding the biological principles of the disease is crucial to understanding why such meticulous attention should be paid to keeping an accurate medical record of all test results, lifestyle changes and therapeutic interventions. The medical record provides a basis for determining the status of the disease and what therapeutic modalities should be considered if adequate control of the disease has not been achieved. By precisely assessing all of the measurable individual risk factors, a prostate cancer patient can better decide on the treatment options that offer the greatest opportunity for long-term control or cure, while minimizing potential side effects. The knowledge base of how prostate cancer cells propagate and what can be done to interfere with these processes is colossal. This is good news for a prostate cancer patient who seeks a comprehensive scientific approach to eradicating his disease. Contrast this with a pancreatic cancer patient, who has little hope of survival beyond 12 months. Prostate cancer can easily be diagnosed at an early curable stage. Recurrence of existing disease can also be readily monitored. This is different from other cancers, in which a patient often waits for a dreaded physical symptom before learning the cancer has occurred or recurred. The bottom line is that a prostate cancer patient can exert a tremendous amount of control over his disease. What has been written here provides a systematic guide to taking advantage of the many technologies available today. The Life Extension Foundation has identified an extensive array of integrated prostate cancer therapies based on published scientific findings and the clinical experience of practicing oncologists. While this protocol provides information in a practical format, the cooperation of the attending physician is crucial. Suggested Resources Dr. Patrick Walsh's Guide to Surviving Prostate Cancer Sheldon Marks, M.D.'s Prostate & Cancer. A Family Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment & Survival Prostate Cancer Research Institute's PCRI Insights Dr. Snuffy Myers's Prostate Forum ECPCP's (Education Center for Prostate Cancer Patients) Prostate Exchange PAACT's (Patient Advocates for Advanced Cancer Treatments) Cancer Communication Internet Websites PCRI ( www.pcri.org ) Don Cooley ( http://www.cooleyville.com/cancer/ ) Robert Young ( http://www.phoenix5.org ) PubMed ( http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi ) Internet-Based Tools (Software) PC Tools I and II ( www.pcri.org ) Kattan Nomograms ( http://www.mskcc.org/mskcc/html/10088.cfm ) Continued . . . |
FREE AIR MAIL SHIPPING IN THE UNITED STATES!  The statements made here have not been evaluated by the FDA. The foregoing statements are based upon sound and reliable studies, and are meant for informational purposes. Consult with your medical practitioner to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. Copyright 1997-2009 Life Extension Vitamin Supplies and Life Extension Institute, Inc. All rights reserved. |