Once diagnosed with cancer, what a patient needs is morale support from friends and family to cope with their overwhelming grief, fear and confusion.

ILLUSTRATION: CHOOPONG EAMORAPHAN

“But what they need most is self morale. It’s very unfortunate that many of us died because they gave up too early,” said cancer patient Somsak (not his real name).

After learning that he had advanced liver cancer, Somsak said he broke down, cried and cried.

Somsak knew he had the hepatitis B virus 10 years ago. After that, he noticed he began to experience chronic fatigue and unexplained weight loss. his dark orange-coloured urine also worried him.

In addition, he suffered acute abdominal pain. An ultrasound screening detected an abdominal mass in the upper right area of his body. A CT scan and biopsy later confirmed the diagnosis of liver cancer.

“I was shocked when my doctor told me that the cancer was in advanced stage. And that I might only be able to live six more months.”

Never saying die, Somsak decided to join “the Advanced Liver Cancer Patient Assistance Programme” following his doctor’s suggestion. The programme gives patients cancer oral medicine support.

“I’m lucky because I have responded relatively well to the medication.” he said.

After two years of medication, Somsak continues to fight bravely against the deadly disease despite some adverse side effects from the medication.

“It is as good as it gets,” he said. “Apart from medication, I believe that positive thinking and good emotional health is equally important to fight cancer. we need to be strong and brave if we want to live longer.”

The liver cancer that Somsak has is called hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), explained Dr Thiravud Khuhaprema, chairman of the National Cancer Institute Foundation. this form of liver cancer is closely linked to chronic hepatitis B and C. it is the most common type of liver cancer that begins in the cells of the liver itself.

“These patients are often found to have a history of viral hepatitis B or C infection. HCC is one of the main cancers that causes death in Thailand and chronic hepatitis B is found in 80% of these cases,” said Dr Thiravud. “The infection can cause continual damage to the liver and develop into cirrhosis and cancer.”

He said the frequency of liver cancer is highest in developing countries and quite rare in developed countries. Each year, it is estimated that there are about 350,000 new cases of liver cancer. And two-thirds of the cases are found in countries in Asia. Mongolia is ranked first and Thailand fifth.

In Thailand, liver cancer is the most common cancer in males. it is the third most frequent cancer in females, but it’s the number one cause of death among female patients. The incidence rate and the mortality rate of liver cancer in Thailand are steadily rising.

Assoc Prof Narin Voravud, an expert in medical oncology from Chulalongkorn University Hospital pointed out that the relative high rates of HCC in Thailand is reflected in the high frequency of hepatitis B infection.

“One person in every 12 people suffers from hepatitis B infection in Thailand,” he said. Meanwhile, the number of people with viral hepatitis C infection has been on the increase.

Heavy drinking is also another important cause of liver cancer in Thailand, he noted. The chance for liver cancer is even higher if the drinkers have snacks that contain alfatoxin, a dangerous mould in foodstuffs commonly found in peanuts, wheat and corns that are stored in a wet or humid environment. It’s odourless, colourless and tasteless.

“Most Thai people drink alcohol paired with peanuts. These combined factors may trigger the development of HCC,” said Dr Narin. 

HCC liver cancer often does not show any symptoms in its early stage. like Somsak, patients with advanced stage may experience fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, yellowing of the skin and the eyes, abdominal pain (particularly in the upper right area where the liver is present).

Primary liver cancer that affects just a small part of the liver is often treated with surgery to remove the cancerous tumour and the surrounding liver tissues to preserve the important areas of the liver for normal body function. it is possible for patients to suffer from the recurrence of the disease, however.

“Only 10-20% of HCC can be completely removed using surgery. And the recurrent rate is about 50-60%,” Dr Narin said.

Another treatment option involves inserting particles into the liver artery to block the flow of blood to the tumour. Liver transplants to replace the diseased liver can cure the disease but a living donor graft and matching of organ donors is not easy to find.

It is unfortunate that patients with HCC often suffer from liver cancer, viral hepatitis B infection and cirrhosis of the liver at the same time, he said.

It is not uncommon that patients with liver cancer die shortly after the diagnosis. if the cancer cannot be completely removed, the decline is rapid. Patients may usually continue to live only three to six months.

“Treating patients with liver cancer can be very challenging as we have to deal with three conditions simultaneously,” Dr Narin said.

Most chemotherapy drugs are not effective to liver cancer. And chemotherapy has not been shown to help patients live longer, he said. The liver often cannot tolerate radiation which harms healthy liver tissues.

“The good news is that the patients who cannot be treated with surgery can now resort to new liver cancer drugs,” he said. this new medication tackles the cancerous cells and tumour blood vessels directly.

A liver tumour needs new blood vessels for it to grow. since this medication blocks the growth of new blood vessels, the growth of the tumour is then stopped. The possible side effects include diarrhoea, skin rash and high blood pressure.

In clinical trials overseas, the drug succeeded in extending the lives of patients who cannot be treated with surgery and injection by 44 % one year when compared to 33% of those who received a placebo, said Dr Narin.

In Thailand, a clinical trial involving 140 Thai patients with advanced liver cancer showed that the patients continued to live up to 14 months.

“An improvement of survival probability of four months in Thai patients means that the drug is effective with Thai patients,” said Dr Narin.

The bad news is that this new medication is extremely expensive. it costs about 250,000 baht a month for the drugs.

“This is why the patients with advanced liver cancer may consider joining the Advanced Liver Cancer Patient Assistance Programme,” said Dr Thiravud.

The programme which requires participants to pay for the medicine for the first three months before they are accepted, is a collaboration between the National Cancer Institute Foundation and the country’s leading pharmaceutical company. since its inception in 2009, more than 170 patients have participated in the programme.

“But prevention is better than cure,” stressed Dr Thiravut. to keep liver cancer at bay, people should be vaccinated for hepatitis B. Meanwhile, patients with viral hepatitis B should also be periodically monitored for HCC.”

For more on the Advanced Liver Cancer Patient Assistance Programme, call the National Cancer Institute Foundation at 02 354 7025 ext.1221.

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Praise for urology staff at Wycombe Hospital

4:04pm Thursday 15th September 2011

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a RETIRED businessman has paid tribute to staff at Wycombe Hospital who treated him for prostate cancer, and urged other pensioners to get themselves checked out.

Anthony Calladine, 66, was shocked to be diagnosed with the disease after taking a blood test on the advice of a friend.

He had no symptoms and had never even been to hospital before.

Wycombe Hospital has a specialist urology ward and after a ‘speedy and efficient’ series of tests , including a biopsy, ultrasound and bone scan, Mr Calladine, of new Road, High Wycombe, had his prostate removed last month.

He said: “I want to pay tribute to the consultant, Mr John Kelleher, and all the doctors and nurses who were exceptional in their duties.

“It’s not an easy department to work in and they’ve all got my sincerest respect.”

“Prostate cancer is a killer because many people are reluctant to take a test. I want to try and get people to do what I did.

“Please take my advice and have a blood test…it does not hurt or cost anything but if you don’t bother very serious problems can occur.”

Praise for urology staff at Wycombe Hospital

4:04pm Thursday 15th September 2011

• Print
• Email
• Comments(1)

A RETIRED businessman has paid tribute to staff at Wycombe Hospital who treated him for prostate cancer, and urged other pensioners to get themselves checked out.

Anthony Calladine, 66, was shocked to be diagnosed with the disease after taking a blood test on the advice of a friend.

he had no symptoms and had never even been to hospital before.

Wycombe Hospital has a specialist urology ward and after a ‘speedy and efficient’ series of tests , including a biopsy, ultrasound and bone scan, Mr Calladine, of New Road, High Wycombe, had his prostate removed last month.

he said: “I want to pay tribute to the consultant, Mr John Kelleher, and all the doctors and nurses who were exceptional in their duties.

“It’s not an easy department to work in and they’ve all got my sincerest respect.”

“Prostate cancer is a killer because many people are reluctant to take a test. I want to try and get people to do what I did.

“Please take my advice and have a blood test…it does not hurt or cost anything but if you don’t bother very serious problems can occur.”

How can you tell if you have Colon cancer or have a colon infection?

:l

I suggest you visit WebMd.com where there is a signs & symptoms area you can use as a guideline toward finding medical answers to your questions; as well as utilize the WebMd site as a guidance toward finding some medical guidance in respect to your concerns. It is an excellent site which offers avenues toward finding treatment & medical personnel within your area. A very user friendly site as well offering easy to understand terms & medical terminology for all. Answer's is not the best avenue for seeking any medical guidance~ especially when there are many who may find entertainment in 'serious' inquiries! [Just my personal opinion] take care~

Hey,

The only way to know if you have colorectal cancer (colon cancer) is a biopsy of the colon or rectal area that appears cancerous as Denisedds said. these tests can be performed by a gastrointerologist or a colon and rectal surgeon.

However the symptoms that should send you to one of these specialists for testing are:-

Usually the first symptom is bright red rectal bleeding. This does not always mean that you have colon cancer but you should seek medical care for this symptom as colorectal cancers often bleed. If the cancer is far from the rectum instead of bright red bleeding, a sign of colon cancer is dark, tarry stools, another symptom that should send you straight to the doctor.

Bleeding into the intestine results in a low blood count or anemia. A symptom of anemia is lack of energy. in any unexplained anemia the diagnosis of colon cancer must be considered.

New onset constipation is another symptom. as the cancer grows it begins to block the intestine so stools cannot pass. with certain types of colon cancers, diarrhea can also be a symptom. Diarrhea that does not resolve in a few days must also be investigated.

When the intestinal tract is partially or completely blocked, a feeling of fullness, decrease in appetite, and weight loss can be a result. these are symptoms of colon cancer until proven otherwise.

Bright red rectal bleeding, dark tarry stools, fatigue, constipation, continuous diarrhea, weight loss, lacks of appetite, and a feeling of fullness can all be symptoms. It is important to seek medical help if you have any or especially a combination of these symptoms as they can be colon cancer symptoms. The only way to know that you have colorectal cancer is to see a doctor who can diagnose the cause of the symptoms.

I hope its not serious

Symptoms of Colon Cancer include:
1. Constipation
2. Thin / Bloody stool
3. Stomach cramps
4. Gas and Bloating
5. Unexplained weight loss
6. Nausea and vomiting
7. Lethargy
Still, it’s important to understand what you need to look for, so if something does pop up, you make sure to seek medical attention immediately.

my husbad is only 31 it possible for him to have this deadly disease?

My mom had colon cancer. And died of it a month ago. she was only 38. It doesn't matter how old you are. one symptom is bloody stool and it will hurt very bad. he needs to get a colonoscopy as soon as possible. My mom waited too long and the doctors told her she was crazy. Just because they couldn't find anything wrong with her. They waited so long it had already turned to stage 4. Witch is terminal. good luck and God bless.

Primarily, in my Limited Experience, a Blood Loss Anemia, With a Normal BUN. And a + Occult Blood Test. Confirmation By Colonoscopy and Biopsy.

I am showing some symptoms for testicular cancer. I have booked an appointment with my GP next week. I was thinking, if it turns out it is cancer, what can they do for me considering they are notbased in a Hospital (just a health centre)? would I not just be better going to A&E? Is your GP always your first stop for Health concerns like this? I am only young. never had to see a doctor before hence my limited knowledge on the process.

See your GP doctor first, if they feel something suspect then they will direct you to a Urologist who will do a full examine on you. this is usually an exam and an ultra sound of your testes to see what it is and if it is a solid mass or liquid. From there you will be told what it is. if they think it is cancer then they will get in to remove it. then a biopsy is done. if it is cancer then you have to go through what ever procedures they have for you depending on the kind and stage of the cancer.
The think to do is move fast. Don't wait. The longer it goes the harder it is for them to handle what ever it is. Especially if it is cancer.
Good Luck!!!
Remember too that if it is cancer not to worry too much. That is one of the most curable cancers. thank you Lance Armstrong

hi mate, i too was going through the symptoms of testicular cancer and i booked an appointment with my GP cause at the end of the day these people are the pros, it was very scary but these things need to be checked out straight away, your GP will do a thorough check and if he finds anything which is unregular he will refer you too a specialist. see your GP first and foremost. hope all is well mate.

Stick with your appointment at the doc. he will give you an examination and decide whether you do have concerns, then if so, he will get you a speedy appointment with your nearest hospital that deals with testicular cancer. try not to get too stressed out as it could be any number of things. You won't be any quicker by going to A&E.

A & E is for Accidents and Emergencies. if your doctor has any concerns, he will refer you to a specialist at a local hospital for tests – your doctor will probably not be able to tell you if it is cancer. Fingers crossed it is nothing to worry about, just wait and see what your doctor says.

Visit the GP first who will tell you if you need to be concerened or not.
He will then refer you to a doctor in a hospital and probably make you an appointment or tell you to make one asap.
Youve done the first bit correctly though so good luck for the future!

ultrasound and there is nothing showing on that. I have no infections. I had d&c and also a biopsy done 2 weeks ago. I am going to the dr. this afternoon for the results of biopsy. What do you think is wrong?

Do cancer symptoms come and go or are they constant? I'll get a bad attack of urinary symptoms for a few days and then for a couple of weeks ill feel pretty good and then i'll have another attack where i feel bad for a few days. i know everyone likes to point to infection but it's not that. I'm just wondering if cancer symptoms can present like this. thanks guys.. really appreciate any answers

What is Cancer ? Excess growth of Cells in our body other than the normal this is the initial of the cancer stage.
Cancer Symptoms :
Increase in the rate of RBC (Red blood cells,)WBC (White blood cells),platelets Counts.
Swelling in the affected part (If it is in the breast there is a swelling in the nipple & other parts)
Too much pain in the affected area.
If the above symptoms persists contact oncologists specialists
Oncology – Study about cancer.

The oncology specialists will take a piece of tissue from the affected area it is called Biopsy.
later on the biopsy sample sent to the lab they will examine whether it is a cancer tissue or other tissues.
They will give report to oncologists.
The oncologists will prescribe medicines to the patients.
Cancer on many types:
skin cancer -Melanoma
Breast Cancer
Brain Cancer
Prostate cancer (Due to prostate specific antigen (PSA)
Cancer in intestines,stomach.
So contact oncologists to cure the life

Best thing for you is to ask your doctor to do a blood protein test, especially if cancer runs in your family. my teenage son waited and waited to tell us he had an enlarged testical, and it turned out to be cancer. he had no other symptoms or pain. The blood test confirmed the presence of the marker proteins.It also confirmed the absence of them after surgery.

Because some cancers have very little or no symptoms until they can become advanced, it is a good idea to pursue this problem with a doctor. It may be inconvenient and costly, but the peace of mind or early diagnosis is well worth it.

The answer will come in your bone marrow tests, not speculation. That's why he did them.

The BMB was done to answer those very questions. since you are symptom-free, there is little to go on except the biopsy to see if the marrow can tell any tales. probably will. there are many possibilities as to what is going on, but it's pointless to speculate until the results are in. Even the doc won't guess since there is so little to go on.

Just wait for that phone call….

The only way to know is after surgery. A biopsy following a colonoscopy can tell if there is cancer present, but the only way to know for sure if the lymph nodes have been invaded is after surgery (which is only performed if the tumor has gone into the colon wall–otherwise, there is no way the lymph nodes are invaded, since they are on the outside of the colon). the part that is removed will be inspected, and they will check then to see how many lymph nodes (if any) have been invaded.

go to your doctor!