DermHelpCentral

When is Cancer NOT Cancer?

Gina Kolata, in the 11/23/2011 NY Times, has an  important article which addresses the overdiagnosis of cancer and highlights the dangers of screening. She postulates that "the word 'cancer' is out of date, and all too often it can be unnecessarily frightening." This article needs to be read by physicians, patients and their families.  Although it highlights breast and prostate cancer, it is applicable to skin cancer as well.  Squamous cell carcinoma-in situ, melanoma in-situ, actinic keratoses should not be labeled as "cancer" (or pre-cancer) but as cutaneous dysplasias.  Treatment need not be aggressive.  In my opinion, the whole idea of "screening" needs to be reconsidered. See:  Download ‘Cancer’ or ‘Weird Cells’

Chemo Fog

Jane Brody for the New York Times, August 3, 2009:  The Fog That Follows Chemotherapy.  "As more people with cancer survive and try to return to their former lives, a side effect of chemotherrapy is getting more and more attention. Its name is apt, if unappealing: chemo brain.

Nearly every chemotherapy patient experiences short-term problems with memory and concentration. But about 15 percent suffer prolonged effects of what is known medically as chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment."

This piece may help you, a family member or a friend.