Health Risks and Cancer

This topic explores various health risks and potential cancer causes, ranging from the effects of cell phone radiation to the dangers of processed meats, ultra-processed foods, and certain chemicals. Articles cover studies on the increased risk of pancreatic cancer from processed meats, the potential link between cell phone radiation and brain function impairment, and the effects of ultra-processed foods on memory and stroke risk. Additionally, it delves into the risks associated with sodium nitrite in meats, benzene in cold medications, and the impact of tattoos on lymph node cancer. Other areas of focus include the long-term effects of CAR T therapy, the rising cancer rates among younger generations, and the potential cancer-preventive benefits of certain diabetes medications. Overall, the topic provides a comprehensive overview of various environmental and lifestyle factors that may contribute to cancer and other health concerns.

Latest

Cinnamon could negatively interact with certain prescription medications

Experts warn against excessive cinnamon consumption

Featured Health News photo

A new study conducted by researchers from the University of Mississippi found that excess cinnamon intake may reduce the effects of prescription medications. 

Different types of cinnamon may present different health risks. 

Consumers are urged to consult their health care providers before starting any kind of supplement regimen.  

Many people turn to supplements containing cinnamon, as the spice can help regulate blood pressure and reduce inflammation. However, the results ...

Read Article
Featured Health News photo

Article Timeline

Newest
  • Newest
  • Oldest
2025
2024
Article Image

Deadly skin cancer rates vary between men and women, study finds

Melanoma -- the deadliest form of skin cancer -- isn't an equal opportunity cancer. A new study points up some important differences, finding that melanoma rates vary significantly between men and women, with differences in age of onset and the location of the melanomas on the body.

The study, published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, analyzed over 40 years of melanoma data and found these differences across different populations.

“Invasive melanomas are potentially lethal cancers that are increasing rapidly in incidence. We need to understand how these cancers arise, and what drives their development, if we are to find better ways to prevent them," said David C. Whiteman of the University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.

"Studies like this one suggest that we may need to target our prevention efforts differently for men and women if we are to be effective in our attempts to control this cancer,” Whiteman said.

Key Findings

  • Age and Sex: Women are more likely to develop melanoma earlier in life (up to around 45 years old), while men have higher rates later in life (from 65 years and older).

  • Body Site: In women, melanomas occur most often on the limbs. In men, the trunk and head/neck are the most common locations.

  • Trends Over Time: Melanoma rates have increased in both sexes, but faster in women. Melanomas on the head and neck have steadily increased with age in both sexes.

Implications:

  • The study highlights the need to tailor melanoma prevention strategies differently for men and women.

  • Understanding the biological differences in how melanomas develop in different body sites could provide important clues about the causes of this cancer.

Most serious skin cancer

While not the most common skin cancer, melanoma is the deadliest, accounting for the majority of skin cancer deaths. It develops from melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color.

While it most commonly occurs on skin exposed to the sun, it can also develop in the eyes, mouth, intestines, and other areas. As the study noted, it is increasing in incidence, especially among women. 

As with many cancers, early detection is important and can significantly improve the chances of survival.  

People of all colors are vulnerable

People of all skin tones can get melanoma. It's a misconception that only white people are at risk.

While individuals with lighter skin tones are at a higher risk due to less melanin (the skin's natural protection from the sun), melanoma can still affect people of color, and it's often diagnosed at a later, more dangerous stage due to this misconception.

It's crucial for everyone, regardless of skin tone, to practice sun safety, get regular skin checks, and be aware of the signs of melanoma.

Rates vary by country

Not surprisingly, some countries have significantly higher rates of melanoma. 

Countries with the Highest Rates:

  • Australia and New Zealand consistently have the highest reported rates of melanoma globally.

  • Other countries with high rates include:

  • Denmark

  • Norway

  • The Netherlands

  • Switzerland

Factors contributing to high rates:

  • High UV radiation levels: Countries closer to the equator or with high altitude tend to have stronger UV radiation from the sun, increasing the risk of skin damage and melanoma. Australia and New Zealand, for example, have high UV levels.  

  • Predominantly fair-skinned populations: Populations with lighter skin tones are more susceptible to UV damage and melanoma.  

  • Outdoor lifestyle: Cultures that promote outdoor activities and sun exposure may have higher melanoma rates.

Melanoma treatment

Treatment for melanoma varies depending on the stage of the cancer and other factors, but common options include:

  • Surgery: This is the primary treatment for early-stage melanoma. It involves removing the cancerous tissue along with a margin of healthy skin.  

  • Immunotherapy: This helps the body's immune system fight cancer cells.  

  • Targeted Therapy: This uses drugs that target specific vulnerabilities in melanoma cells.  

  • Chemotherapy: This uses drugs to kill cancer cells, but it's generally less effective for melanoma than other treatment options.  

  • Radiation Therapy: This uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. It's often used to treat melanoma that has spread to other parts of the body.  

Remember: Early detection is key in fighting melanoma. Regular self-exams and visits to a dermatologist for skin checks are crucial for identifying any suspicious moles or changes in your skin.  

---

Sources for this story include the Mayo Clinic, American Academy of Dermatology, Biomed Central and the American Cancer Society. 

Melanoma -- the deadliest form of skin cancer -- isn't an equal opportunity cancer. A new study points up some important differences, finding that melanoma...

Article Image

Cell phones cleared of brain cancer risk but heart disease is another matter

For years, there've been fears that frequent and longstanding use of cell phones posed a risk of brain cancer. Now, after decades of studies and disputed claims, the World Health Organization (WHO) says they don't. 

But don't rush to pick your phone up just yet. A new Canadian study finds that regular cell phone use is "positively associated" with heart disease, especially in smokers and patients with diabetes.

In the WHO review, researchers said that even though the phones are generally held next to the head, there was no evidence of increased risk of brain cancer in regular mobile phone users. The latest study is based on a large base of studies and could put to rest fears raised by earlier studies that seemed to suggest the possiblity of harm. 

The review considered more than 5,000 studies, of which 63, published between 1994 and 2022, were included in the final analysis. No association between mobile phone use and brain cancer, or any other head or neck cancer, was found.

Heart disease in phone users

The Canadian study, on the other hand, found evidence suggesting that radio frequencies emitted by mobile phones "cause dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, inflammatory responses, and oxidative stress, and are therefore expected to affect a variety of organs such as the heart and blood vessels," according to Yanjun Zhang, MD, Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China

"However, whether mobile phone use is associated with the risk of cardiovascular diseases remains uncertain," Zhang added.

The large study included 444,027 individuals from the UK Biobank without a history of cardiovascular diseases who self-reported on the frequency of their mobile phone use from 2006 to 2010. Regular mobile phone use was defined as at least one call per week.

The association was partly attributed to poor sleep, psychological distress, and neuroticism

Using linked hospital and mortality records, the composite outcome of incident stroke, coronary heart disease, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure was ascertained over a median followup time of 12.3 years. Researchers also investigated the role of sleep patterns, psychological distress, and neuroticism.

So what's the message to consumers? As is so often the case, it may come down to using moderation in all things.

"Maintaining responsible mobile phone habits should be a valuable component of an all-encompassing approach to supporting cardiovascular health," said Nicholas Grubic of the Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, in an editorial accompanyiing the study. "Before diving into hours of mindless ’doom-scrolling’ on your smartphone today, consider redirecting this time toward a more heart-healthy activity."

For years, there've been fears that frequent and longstanding use of cell phones posed a risk of brain cancer. Now, after decades of studies and disputed c...