Graveyard shift work linked to cancer
By MARIA CHENG, AP Medical Writer Thu Nov 29, 8:25 PM ET
LONDON - Like UV rays and diesel exhaust fumes, working the graveyard shift will soon be listed as a "probable" cause of cancer. It is a surprising step validating a concept once considered wacky. And it is based on research that finds higher rates of breast and prostate cancer among women and men whose work day starts after dark.
Next month, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, the cancer arm of the World Health Organization, will add overnight shift work as a probable carcinogen. The American Cancer Society says it will likely follow. Up to now, the U.S. organization has considered the work-cancer link to be "uncertain, controversial or unproven."
The higher cancer rates don't prove working overnight can cause cancer. There may be other factors common among graveyard shift workers that raise their risk for cancer.
However, scientists suspect that overnight work is dangerous because it disrupts the circadian rhythm, the body's biological clock. The hormone melatonin, which can suppress tumor development, is normally produced at night.
If the graveyard shift theory eventually proves correct, millions of people worldwide could be affected. Experts estimate that nearly 20 percent of the working population in developed countries work night shifts.
Among the first to spot the night shift-cancer connection was Richard Stevens, a cancer epidemiologist and professor at the University of Connecticut Health Center. In 1987, Stevens published a paper suggesting a link between light at night and breast cancer.
Back then, he was trying to figure out why breast cancer incidence suddenly shot up starting in the 1930s in industrialized societies, where nighttime work was considered a hallmark of progress. Most scientists were bewildered by his proposal.
But in recent years, several studies have found that women working at night over many years were indeed more prone to breast cancer. Also, animals that have their light-dark schedules switched develop more cancerous tumors and die earlier.
Some research also suggests that men working at night may have a higher rate of prostate cancer.
Because these studies mostly focused on nurses and airline crews, bigger studies in different populations are needed to confirm or disprove the findings.
There are still plenty of skeptics. And to put the risk in perspective, the "probable carcinogen" tag means that the link between overnight work and cancer is merely plausible.
Among the long list of agents that are listed as "known" carcinogens are alcoholic beverages and birth control pills. Such lists say nothing about exposure amount or length of time or how likely they are to cause cancer. The American Cancer Society Web site notes that carcinogens do not cause cancer at all times.
Still, many doubters of the night shift link may be won over by the IARC's analysis to be published in the December issue of the journal Lancet Oncology.
"The indications are positive," said Vincent Cogliano, who heads up the agency's carcinogen classifications unit. "There was enough of a pattern in people who do shift work to recognize that there's an increase in cancer, but we can't rule out the possibility of other factors."
Scientists believe having lower melatonin levels can raise the risk of developing cancer. Light shuts down melatonin production, so people working in artificial light at night may have lower melatonin levels.
Melatonin can be taken as a supplement, but experts don't recommend it long-term, since that could ruin the body's ability to produce it naturally.
Sleep deprivation may be another factor in cancer risk. People who work at night are not usually able to completely reverse their day and night cycles.
"Night shift people tend to be day shift people who are trying to stay awake at night," said Mark Rea, director of the Light Research Center at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York, who is not connected with the IARC analysis.
Not getting enough sleep makes your immune system vulnerable to attack, and less able to fight off potentially cancerous cells.
Confusing your body's natural rhythm can also lead to a breakdown of other essential tasks. "Timing is very important," Rea said. Certain processes like cell division and DNA repair happen at regular times.
Even worse than working an overnight shift is flipping between daytime and overnight work.
"The problem is re-setting your body's clock," said Aaron Blair, of the United States' National Cancer Institute, who chaired IARC's recent meeting on shift work. "If you worked at night and stayed on it, that would be less disruptive than constantly changing shifts."
Anyone whose light and dark schedule is often disrupted — including frequent long-haul travelers or insomniacs — could theoretically face the same increased cancer risk, Stevens said.
He advises workers to sleep in a darkened room once they get off work. "The balance between light and dark is very important for your body. Just get a dark night's sleep."
Meanwhile, scientists are trying to come up with ways to reduce night workers' cancer risk. And some companies are experimenting with different lighting, seeking a type that doesn't affect melatonin production.
So far, the color that seems to have the least effect on melatonin is one that few people would enjoy working under: red.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Gift for Suzanne
A Gift for Suzanne
October 2006
I woke up early and made coffee.
Where is the sugar? I thought to myself as I fumbled around in a foreign kitchen. Hope they have half and half. I thought as I poured a cup of coffee, took a sip and then spat in the kitchen sink. SALT! I thought that was sugar! I searched all the cabinets. No sugar. Pat woke up and entered the kitchen quietly. She tip toed into the kitchen with toasty slippers wearing a warm terry cloth bathrobe.
“What are you looking for?” Pat whispered. We tried not to wake the other sleepers. We failed.
“Sugar” I replied embarrassed.
Pat opened a cabinet. She found a pretty canister with white sugar in four seconds flat. I configured my second cup of coffee.
Five minutes later the world was a better place. I had my coffee my way.
Pat and I slowly savored our coffee as we stared out the window at the garden in silent reflection.
We came to the Sierras for Melissa’s memorial service. She was killed in a traffic accident suddenly. Truck tire blowout, head-on collision, and Mo was gone. Maybe coffee will help with our mental clarity as we prepare for Mo's memorial service. Maybe coffee will be the comfort to soothe my despair.
“Coffee ready yet?” Tom whispered as he shuffled into the kitchen.
“I really like your bathrobe, Tom” I commented as Pat poured a cup of java for her sweetie.” Where did you get this one Pat?”
“Thrift store in Merced” she responded. I thought Tom and Pat's bathrobe collection was cool. Tom usually has that glazed look in the morning until has coffee and the morning paper.
Do they deliver a morning paper up here in the hills? I wondered.
Three people drank coffee and stared out the window waiting for caffeine to move to our brains.
Our hostess Suzanne entered the kitchen with her husband Ron. She had a small pot pipe and baggie of homegrown. Suzanne had been on the computer doing more research on her disease. Stacks of books about cancer surrounded her bed. Suzanne needed a break. She looked very tired to me this morning.
I remember the glass bowl in their living room with “Cancer Sucks!” black and white buttons. The glass bowl was half empty like her pot pipe.
“Mornin” the coffee drinkers mumbled in unison. Suzanne was fighting cancer. Pot was her pain reliever. Suzanne took a toke. We drank coffee together and stared out the window at the Sierra foothills.
“It is so quiet up here in the mountains. So peaceful.” I commented as I left the group to walk outside through the garden coffee mug in hand.
The sun was filtering through the canopy of trees. Birds sang, Fall colors surrounded me but I didn't see color that day. My heart was filled with sadness for my loss of a friend Melissa. I did not see color that day only black and white.
I opened my car trunk. I was not sure what would be a good gift for our hostess. This morning I had the answer. I returned to the kitchen with a small baggie in my hand.
“Here is some bud I think you will enjoy.” I offered it to my hostess. Suzanne smiled and looked at me with soft eyes.
“Thank you, Doug,” she said. "Want a toke?" she asked.
"I'm good," I replied. "Just need coffee, scrambled eggs, sausage and toast for breakfast this morning."
November 2007
I saw Ron and Suzanne once again at Pat’s 60th birthday party. She looked great to me compared to my last visit. She seemed peaceful. I watched her dance with her husband and visit with friends.
I asked Suzanne to look at my writing draft the “Gift for my hostess” piece and she relied:
“I liked your piece about us. Of course where I’m coming from I would call your coffee ‘sugar with a splash of coffee’ but then I have been sugar-free for year now. Coffee-free as well. You can keep your sausage breakfasts too. Believe me I’m not bitter that I can’t have meat and grease and cholesterol.
A year on my diet I believe has set me free. Reiki and diet and a good holistic local doctor have made my life better. Weekly massages too. Friends and a wonderful husband are the glue to my whole self.
I wouldn’t change anything in your writing,Doug. What a healing day that was for me. That’s when Michael Hornick offered me Reiki. He still delivers four times a week and I get to work on him with his sore hip.
We are blessed Doug, you and me, because we know the true meaning of gratitude. We see the good in Everything. Keep it up!
Happy Healing. Peace
Suzanne
January 12, 2008 at 4:30AM Suzanne died at home.
October 2006
I woke up early and made coffee.
Where is the sugar? I thought to myself as I fumbled around in a foreign kitchen. Hope they have half and half. I thought as I poured a cup of coffee, took a sip and then spat in the kitchen sink. SALT! I thought that was sugar! I searched all the cabinets. No sugar. Pat woke up and entered the kitchen quietly. She tip toed into the kitchen with toasty slippers wearing a warm terry cloth bathrobe.
“What are you looking for?” Pat whispered. We tried not to wake the other sleepers. We failed.
“Sugar” I replied embarrassed.
Pat opened a cabinet. She found a pretty canister with white sugar in four seconds flat. I configured my second cup of coffee.
Five minutes later the world was a better place. I had my coffee my way.
Pat and I slowly savored our coffee as we stared out the window at the garden in silent reflection.
We came to the Sierras for Melissa’s memorial service. She was killed in a traffic accident suddenly. Truck tire blowout, head-on collision, and Mo was gone. Maybe coffee will help with our mental clarity as we prepare for Mo's memorial service. Maybe coffee will be the comfort to soothe my despair.
“Coffee ready yet?” Tom whispered as he shuffled into the kitchen.
“I really like your bathrobe, Tom” I commented as Pat poured a cup of java for her sweetie.” Where did you get this one Pat?”
“Thrift store in Merced” she responded. I thought Tom and Pat's bathrobe collection was cool. Tom usually has that glazed look in the morning until has coffee and the morning paper.
Do they deliver a morning paper up here in the hills? I wondered.
Three people drank coffee and stared out the window waiting for caffeine to move to our brains.
Our hostess Suzanne entered the kitchen with her husband Ron. She had a small pot pipe and baggie of homegrown. Suzanne had been on the computer doing more research on her disease. Stacks of books about cancer surrounded her bed. Suzanne needed a break. She looked very tired to me this morning.
I remember the glass bowl in their living room with “Cancer Sucks!” black and white buttons. The glass bowl was half empty like her pot pipe.
“Mornin” the coffee drinkers mumbled in unison. Suzanne was fighting cancer. Pot was her pain reliever. Suzanne took a toke. We drank coffee together and stared out the window at the Sierra foothills.
“It is so quiet up here in the mountains. So peaceful.” I commented as I left the group to walk outside through the garden coffee mug in hand.
The sun was filtering through the canopy of trees. Birds sang, Fall colors surrounded me but I didn't see color that day. My heart was filled with sadness for my loss of a friend Melissa. I did not see color that day only black and white.
I opened my car trunk. I was not sure what would be a good gift for our hostess. This morning I had the answer. I returned to the kitchen with a small baggie in my hand.
“Here is some bud I think you will enjoy.” I offered it to my hostess. Suzanne smiled and looked at me with soft eyes.
“Thank you, Doug,” she said. "Want a toke?" she asked.
"I'm good," I replied. "Just need coffee, scrambled eggs, sausage and toast for breakfast this morning."
November 2007
I saw Ron and Suzanne once again at Pat’s 60th birthday party. She looked great to me compared to my last visit. She seemed peaceful. I watched her dance with her husband and visit with friends.
I asked Suzanne to look at my writing draft the “Gift for my hostess” piece and she relied:
“I liked your piece about us. Of course where I’m coming from I would call your coffee ‘sugar with a splash of coffee’ but then I have been sugar-free for year now. Coffee-free as well. You can keep your sausage breakfasts too. Believe me I’m not bitter that I can’t have meat and grease and cholesterol.
A year on my diet I believe has set me free. Reiki and diet and a good holistic local doctor have made my life better. Weekly massages too. Friends and a wonderful husband are the glue to my whole self.
I wouldn’t change anything in your writing,Doug. What a healing day that was for me. That’s when Michael Hornick offered me Reiki. He still delivers four times a week and I get to work on him with his sore hip.
We are blessed Doug, you and me, because we know the true meaning of gratitude. We see the good in Everything. Keep it up!
Happy Healing. Peace
Suzanne
January 12, 2008 at 4:30AM Suzanne died at home.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
The Flexible Straw
The Flexible Straw
September 2006
Autumn gave everyone a flexible straw, a large 15 by 17 inch piece of white water color quality paper. She asked each writer to drop India ink randomly on our own paper. Using our straws we blew designs.
What does this have to do with cancer? I wondered to myself.
New faces sat around a meeting room table. Cancer survivors meeting for the first time for Autumn’s “In other words” writing group. Two guys and a bunch of women.
At that time I didn’t consider myself a writer. I published health education materials in the early eighties. I used desktop publishing which allowed me to do everything. That wasn’t writing. The writing I wanted to start was to write honest stories of my colon cancer experience.
“Autumn, why are we doing an art project today? I thought this was a writing group.”
I asked the teacher. She paused a moment.
Everyone else in the room just glared at me. Just do the exercise their eyes seemed to communicate. I busied myself with snacks and sipped bottled water and waited for her reply.
The teacher explained we were doing this exercise to loosen up our minds and to become more creative. Then she gave us a writing prompt and we wrote for 20 minutes in our own spiral notebooks. Later we could read what we wrote if we chose to do share our writing.
I still have that artwork in my closet. It is stored next to my high school yearbook, the box of fading baby pictures and the backpack I used in 1985 when I took a trip to Alaska.
September 2006
Autumn gave everyone a flexible straw, a large 15 by 17 inch piece of white water color quality paper. She asked each writer to drop India ink randomly on our own paper. Using our straws we blew designs.
What does this have to do with cancer? I wondered to myself.
New faces sat around a meeting room table. Cancer survivors meeting for the first time for Autumn’s “In other words” writing group. Two guys and a bunch of women.
At that time I didn’t consider myself a writer. I published health education materials in the early eighties. I used desktop publishing which allowed me to do everything. That wasn’t writing. The writing I wanted to start was to write honest stories of my colon cancer experience.
“Autumn, why are we doing an art project today? I thought this was a writing group.”
I asked the teacher. She paused a moment.
Everyone else in the room just glared at me. Just do the exercise their eyes seemed to communicate. I busied myself with snacks and sipped bottled water and waited for her reply.
The teacher explained we were doing this exercise to loosen up our minds and to become more creative. Then she gave us a writing prompt and we wrote for 20 minutes in our own spiral notebooks. Later we could read what we wrote if we chose to do share our writing.
I still have that artwork in my closet. It is stored next to my high school yearbook, the box of fading baby pictures and the backpack I used in 1985 when I took a trip to Alaska.
Before and After I Had Cancer
Begun 9/14/06 and Expanded 11/07
Before I had cancer, I thought I would live forever, but now I am happy to have each day of my life.
Before I had cancer, I enjoyed recreational use of alcohol and pot but now I enjoy having a clear functioning brain and have less interest in using alcohol and pot.
Before I had cancer, I would ride a bike without a helmet, but now I wear a helmet and I am more safety conscious.
Before I had cancer I was just normal, but after I got cancer and beat the disease friends would treat me like I was SUPERMAN.
Before I had cancer my second marriage was dissolving, but after I got cancer I got a divorce.
Before I had cancer I did know there were angels, now I realize that I am surrounded by angels and know God will answer my prayers.
Before I had cancer I was under tremendous stress, now I experience a sense of peace and serenity most of the time.
Before I had cancer I would sweat the small stuff, but now I enjoy each moment and count the many blessings in my life.
Before I had cancer at times I would be fearful, but now I can honestly say I feel safe and happy and peaceful in most situations.
Before I had cancer I was sleep deprived now I get plenty of rest and take naps each day.
Before I had cancer I owned a big home with a yard to maintain, now I rent a small studio and keep it simple.
Before I had cancer I played guitar, now I play ukulele.
Before I had cancer I had a daily 4 hour commute in traffic, now a 10 minute commute by bike to get to work.
Before I had cancer I would speed on the highway in the fast lane, now I set my car on cruise control to the speed limit and ride the middle lane.
Before I had cancer I would listen to music on my ipod, now I enjoy silence.
Before I had cancer I had a to do list with much to accomplish, today I am more selective with the projects I want to do. I focus and finish.
Before I had cancer I was lacking love and affection, now I am blessed with both.
Before I had cancer, I thought I would live forever, but now I am happy to have each day of my life.
Before I had cancer, I enjoyed recreational use of alcohol and pot but now I enjoy having a clear functioning brain and have less interest in using alcohol and pot.
Before I had cancer, I would ride a bike without a helmet, but now I wear a helmet and I am more safety conscious.
Before I had cancer I was just normal, but after I got cancer and beat the disease friends would treat me like I was SUPERMAN.
Before I had cancer my second marriage was dissolving, but after I got cancer I got a divorce.
Before I had cancer I did know there were angels, now I realize that I am surrounded by angels and know God will answer my prayers.
Before I had cancer I was under tremendous stress, now I experience a sense of peace and serenity most of the time.
Before I had cancer I would sweat the small stuff, but now I enjoy each moment and count the many blessings in my life.
Before I had cancer at times I would be fearful, but now I can honestly say I feel safe and happy and peaceful in most situations.
Before I had cancer I was sleep deprived now I get plenty of rest and take naps each day.
Before I had cancer I owned a big home with a yard to maintain, now I rent a small studio and keep it simple.
Before I had cancer I played guitar, now I play ukulele.
Before I had cancer I had a daily 4 hour commute in traffic, now a 10 minute commute by bike to get to work.
Before I had cancer I would speed on the highway in the fast lane, now I set my car on cruise control to the speed limit and ride the middle lane.
Before I had cancer I would listen to music on my ipod, now I enjoy silence.
Before I had cancer I had a to do list with much to accomplish, today I am more selective with the projects I want to do. I focus and finish.
Before I had cancer I was lacking love and affection, now I am blessed with both.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Lack of Knowledge About Colon Cancer Screening
Colorectal Cancer Finding #1: Survey Reveals Lack of Knowledge About Colon Cancer Screening
According to a recent consumer survey, Americans have a poor grasp on when and why to get tested for colon cancer.
The most startling result was that 38% of people over age 50 were able to name a judge on the hit television show “American Idol,” yet only 34% knew they were at risk for colon cancer. Women were less likely than men to believe they were at risk, although the risk of colon cancer is equal in men and women. Seventy percent of those over age 50 believed that getting tested for colon cancer could reduce their risk of colon cancer, but less than half (44%) knew when they should start testing (the answer is age 50).
Colon cancer is the third leading cause of cancer in the United States: Estimates suggest that 146,000 people were diagnosed with colon cancer in 2005 and 56,000 died from it. Screening tests are very effective in detecting colon cancer, and the chance of surviving colon cancer is greatest when the disease is caught early. The American Cancer Society encourages all Americans age 50 and over to talk to their doctor about colon cancer screening tests. Reported by the American Cancer Society and published online at www.cancer.org.
Colorectal Cancer Finding #2: Sigmoidoscopy Misses Two Thirds of Colorectal Cancers in Women
Research suggests that flexible sigmoidoscopy, a screening test for colorectal cancer, is not as accurate in women as in men. In the study of 1,463 women (age 50–79) who underwent colonoscopy for routine colorectal cancer screening, 5% were found to have advanced colorectal cancer. The researchers estimated that if a sigmoidoscopy -- which examines only the rectum and lower portion of the colon -- had been performed, two thirds of these cancers would have been missed because they occurred too far up in the colon to be detected by sigmoidoscopy.
A colonoscopy examines the entire colon and rectum. When the results were compared to those of a similar study in men, sigmoidoscopy was half as accurate in women: While 66% of men would have had advanced colon cancers detected via sigmoidoscopy, only 35% of advanced colon cancers in women would have been found.
Based on these data, a colonoscopy is the preferred method of screening for colon cancer in both men and women. Even though a sigmoidoscopy is easier and less costly to perform and can be done without sedation, a colonoscopy is the gold standard screening test for colon cancer and is the one you should opt for, especially if you are a woman. Reported in The New England Journal of Medicine (Volume 352, page 2061).
According to a recent consumer survey, Americans have a poor grasp on when and why to get tested for colon cancer.
The most startling result was that 38% of people over age 50 were able to name a judge on the hit television show “American Idol,” yet only 34% knew they were at risk for colon cancer. Women were less likely than men to believe they were at risk, although the risk of colon cancer is equal in men and women. Seventy percent of those over age 50 believed that getting tested for colon cancer could reduce their risk of colon cancer, but less than half (44%) knew when they should start testing (the answer is age 50).
Colon cancer is the third leading cause of cancer in the United States: Estimates suggest that 146,000 people were diagnosed with colon cancer in 2005 and 56,000 died from it. Screening tests are very effective in detecting colon cancer, and the chance of surviving colon cancer is greatest when the disease is caught early. The American Cancer Society encourages all Americans age 50 and over to talk to their doctor about colon cancer screening tests. Reported by the American Cancer Society and published online at www.cancer.org.
Colorectal Cancer Finding #2: Sigmoidoscopy Misses Two Thirds of Colorectal Cancers in Women
Research suggests that flexible sigmoidoscopy, a screening test for colorectal cancer, is not as accurate in women as in men. In the study of 1,463 women (age 50–79) who underwent colonoscopy for routine colorectal cancer screening, 5% were found to have advanced colorectal cancer. The researchers estimated that if a sigmoidoscopy -- which examines only the rectum and lower portion of the colon -- had been performed, two thirds of these cancers would have been missed because they occurred too far up in the colon to be detected by sigmoidoscopy.
A colonoscopy examines the entire colon and rectum. When the results were compared to those of a similar study in men, sigmoidoscopy was half as accurate in women: While 66% of men would have had advanced colon cancers detected via sigmoidoscopy, only 35% of advanced colon cancers in women would have been found.
Based on these data, a colonoscopy is the preferred method of screening for colon cancer in both men and women. Even though a sigmoidoscopy is easier and less costly to perform and can be done without sedation, a colonoscopy is the gold standard screening test for colon cancer and is the one you should opt for, especially if you are a woman. Reported in The New England Journal of Medicine (Volume 352, page 2061).
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Colonoscopy and flashbacks
Someone told me that Gandhi had a colon cleanse every three months. Well good for him! I did not feel like being Gandhi. I had to empty my colon for another colonoscopy.
I have been down this road before. Prepare for a colonoscopy, find the right doctor and the right medications, empty out my digestive system, sign paperwork, find a driver, hope there is no more cancer.
Some friends ask my advice about getting a colonoscopy. I seem to be the colonoscopy poster child. I promote the colonoscopy procedure to help get colon cancer diagnosed early so we can save lives. I urge my friends and family to go do it. Some friends delay getting a colonoscopy for years. When they see me in the hall at work they assure me that they are going to get it real soon. Right.
My first colonoscopy in 2003 I did the entire procedure alone. I did the prep alone at home. I drove myself. When I got my diagnosis of colon cancer I was alone driving home. I was in shock and panic from my news and coming out of anthesia and driving home was stupid.
Four years later, 2007, I do things differently. Now I ask for help and support during this procedure.
The 2007 preparation for my procedure was different than 2003. My doctor’s instructions were much more detailed for my colon cleansing. Three days before the scope I maintained a low fiber diet. No fruits, no vegetables and no bran cereals. I was familiar with this diet. After my abdominal resection this same low fiber diet helped me gain strength and recover.
When I was on this low fiber diet for three days in 2007, I triggered memories of my cancer diagnosis of 2003. Triggers of panic. Triggered memories that I was going to die. These triggers are less powerful since I can observe them from a distance.
I talked about this triggered experience with my girlfriend and close friends. Thanksgiving is a reminder and trigger of recovering from cancer surgery three years ago. The turkey and mashed potatoes are easy to digest. Comfort food that I have always enjoyed. As a youngster Thanksgiving was associated with big family gatherings and yummy food. Now turkey is associated with recovery food and healing from cancer treatments.
The day before my recent colonoscopy in 2007 I was on the clear liquid diet. Jell-O, clear juices, tea, broth and 7up. I was at work doing this colon cleansing and I was very spaced out. This reminded me of past chemo brain. My mind was not as sharp. I wasn’t drinking coffee.
What was that password to log into the network? I thought to myself. My mind floated like chemo brain at work. I sipped mint tea and craved coffee for mental calrity.
Marsha appearsed at my cubical and waitsed to get my attention. I stopped my paperwork and asked, “How are you Marsha?”
“Do you have a moment, Doug? I have a question. I did not know who else to ask.”
It was clear this question was not work related.
“Of course I have a minute, how can I help you Marsha?” I replied and spun my chair around to face her.
“Yergal has been out sick. He has cancer in his stomach. He is going into chemo treatments in December and I wanted to know what I could do for him to help.” Her words tumbled out of her mouth quickly. She almost whispered the story.
I paused a moment to collect my thoughts. My mind was floating along from the liquid diet food fast. I call this brain functioning “swiss cheese” thinking because there were holes in my memory where data was stored but I can’t access it. I told Marsha I was getting ready for my colonoscopy and was replaying some emotions from the past. Then I gave her some ideas of what she could do to support Yergal in his treatment process.
Emotional roulette.
That is what this experience felt like. A different feeling stuffed into each bullet chamber. Spin the gun chamber. Pull the trigger. Another emotion explodes in my brain. Most of the time I am quite happy and positive about life. When I go for cancer testing the emotional roulette process may pull an emotional trigger:
1. Panic- I am going to die.
2. Loneliness- I will be abandoned if I get sick again.
3. Rage- The health care system will over charge for my treatment and my health insurance will not cover all my treatments.
4. Sadness- another friend has died from Cancer.
5. Helplessness – There is nothing I can do about this disease.
6. Confusion- what is going on? Who can I trust? Do I have chemo brain again?
“Are you ready?” Chris asked me on the phone. He was my driver to the surgery center for my colonoscopy. I grabbed my folder with medical information, my keys, my wallet and my cell phone.
“Ready” I reply, hung up the phone. locked the door, called the elevator to the sixth floor.
Come on, Come on. I thought to myself. Never patient for elevators. Finally I left the building and climbed into Chris’s car with my map in hand. I was so glad to see Chris to drive me to my colonoscopy.
“How you doing? Chris asked as he snuck through a red light and positioned himself in the left hand turn lane in the next block. The engine in his old car sounded like hyperactive squirrels tap-dancing under the hood. I hope I don't have to walk home because he car doesn't work. The least of my problems.
“Pretty good.” I answered with all the confidence I could muster. Chris knew some of the details about the prep and the colon cleansing.
He called Lorraine that morning and made plans to hike and play music. Lorraine called my cell phone right after talking to Chris. She was very understanding and supportive. I was able to talk again about my triggered feelings about my colonoscopy as I shopped for food. My procedure was scheduled for noon. I made use of the morning to do some chores and kept busy rather than fret at home.
My cell phone vibrated. I missed call. I dialed to retrieve the message. My oncology nurse friend Corrinde left a message with advice about what food to eat after my procedure. She advised me to go slow with re-entry with my gym routine. We both go the Y aerobics class and know that it is easy to over do a workout during group exercise. I called her back to thank her for her support.
We drove for 2 more minutes to our destination. Chris pulls the car over to the curb. I left my cell phone with him. He does not own one. I thanked him for the ride. He drove away. I am alone again. I crossed the street and entered the beautiful old building. I entered the waiting room, signed in, and signed away all rights without reading the fine print. Saved a copy for my own file folder. I payed the co-pay with my VISA card then sat down and looked at the waiting room magazines.
I could choose from People magazine or Outside magazine. (I wished I brought a book to read). Instead I looked at ads for $399 ski pants and beer ads and articles about how to survive being attacked by a shark. Fun reading before a colonoscopy?
“Mr. Beckstein?” a cheery young nurse called my name. “Would you please follow me?”
I was glad to leave the waiting room with the music of R & B Oldies playing thru a speaker that sounded like a 1965 transistor radio. Again not very relaxing for this patient.
The cheery nurse walked me twenty feet to a interview room and turned me over to the older nurse named “Angela”. She reviewed my chart and asked all the routine questions for my health history. I had to pull out some data from my own file folder to answer some of her questions.
She escorted me to the next room where I was prepared for "the scope". I put on flesh colored booties and a hospital gown. Blood pressure check, temperature in the ear, warm blanket then the nurse started an IV in my hand. She asked if I needed a magazine to read. I declined. She pulled the curtain and hid my gurney and attended to another patient.
More waiting. I noticed that I was calm and ready to get this done. Twenty minutes later I entered the procedure room. I greeted the doctor and noticed he had good taste in music. The nurse asked me to roll over on my side and bend my knees. The doctor told her the dose of medication and she plugged a needle into the IV rig in my hand and then I faded to a light sleep.
...fade to black...
Thirty minutes later I opened my eyes in the recovery room. The nurse asked me if I could drink a paper cup of water. I asked for a refill.
“Here are the results of your test Mr. Beckstein.” The nurse handed me a printed report with numerous color photographs of my colon.
No cancer. My colon was clean. No evidence of re-occurring disease. This is very good news!
I signed a piece of paper that verified that I got the report. Ten minutes later I left the building a free man.
A man free of cancer.
I have been down this road before. Prepare for a colonoscopy, find the right doctor and the right medications, empty out my digestive system, sign paperwork, find a driver, hope there is no more cancer.
Some friends ask my advice about getting a colonoscopy. I seem to be the colonoscopy poster child. I promote the colonoscopy procedure to help get colon cancer diagnosed early so we can save lives. I urge my friends and family to go do it. Some friends delay getting a colonoscopy for years. When they see me in the hall at work they assure me that they are going to get it real soon. Right.
My first colonoscopy in 2003 I did the entire procedure alone. I did the prep alone at home. I drove myself. When I got my diagnosis of colon cancer I was alone driving home. I was in shock and panic from my news and coming out of anthesia and driving home was stupid.
Four years later, 2007, I do things differently. Now I ask for help and support during this procedure.
The 2007 preparation for my procedure was different than 2003. My doctor’s instructions were much more detailed for my colon cleansing. Three days before the scope I maintained a low fiber diet. No fruits, no vegetables and no bran cereals. I was familiar with this diet. After my abdominal resection this same low fiber diet helped me gain strength and recover.
When I was on this low fiber diet for three days in 2007, I triggered memories of my cancer diagnosis of 2003. Triggers of panic. Triggered memories that I was going to die. These triggers are less powerful since I can observe them from a distance.
I talked about this triggered experience with my girlfriend and close friends. Thanksgiving is a reminder and trigger of recovering from cancer surgery three years ago. The turkey and mashed potatoes are easy to digest. Comfort food that I have always enjoyed. As a youngster Thanksgiving was associated with big family gatherings and yummy food. Now turkey is associated with recovery food and healing from cancer treatments.
The day before my recent colonoscopy in 2007 I was on the clear liquid diet. Jell-O, clear juices, tea, broth and 7up. I was at work doing this colon cleansing and I was very spaced out. This reminded me of past chemo brain. My mind was not as sharp. I wasn’t drinking coffee.
What was that password to log into the network? I thought to myself. My mind floated like chemo brain at work. I sipped mint tea and craved coffee for mental calrity.
Marsha appearsed at my cubical and waitsed to get my attention. I stopped my paperwork and asked, “How are you Marsha?”
“Do you have a moment, Doug? I have a question. I did not know who else to ask.”
It was clear this question was not work related.
“Of course I have a minute, how can I help you Marsha?” I replied and spun my chair around to face her.
“Yergal has been out sick. He has cancer in his stomach. He is going into chemo treatments in December and I wanted to know what I could do for him to help.” Her words tumbled out of her mouth quickly. She almost whispered the story.
I paused a moment to collect my thoughts. My mind was floating along from the liquid diet food fast. I call this brain functioning “swiss cheese” thinking because there were holes in my memory where data was stored but I can’t access it. I told Marsha I was getting ready for my colonoscopy and was replaying some emotions from the past. Then I gave her some ideas of what she could do to support Yergal in his treatment process.
Emotional roulette.
That is what this experience felt like. A different feeling stuffed into each bullet chamber. Spin the gun chamber. Pull the trigger. Another emotion explodes in my brain. Most of the time I am quite happy and positive about life. When I go for cancer testing the emotional roulette process may pull an emotional trigger:
1. Panic- I am going to die.
2. Loneliness- I will be abandoned if I get sick again.
3. Rage- The health care system will over charge for my treatment and my health insurance will not cover all my treatments.
4. Sadness- another friend has died from Cancer.
5. Helplessness – There is nothing I can do about this disease.
6. Confusion- what is going on? Who can I trust? Do I have chemo brain again?
“Are you ready?” Chris asked me on the phone. He was my driver to the surgery center for my colonoscopy. I grabbed my folder with medical information, my keys, my wallet and my cell phone.
“Ready” I reply, hung up the phone. locked the door, called the elevator to the sixth floor.
Come on, Come on. I thought to myself. Never patient for elevators. Finally I left the building and climbed into Chris’s car with my map in hand. I was so glad to see Chris to drive me to my colonoscopy.
“How you doing? Chris asked as he snuck through a red light and positioned himself in the left hand turn lane in the next block. The engine in his old car sounded like hyperactive squirrels tap-dancing under the hood. I hope I don't have to walk home because he car doesn't work. The least of my problems.
“Pretty good.” I answered with all the confidence I could muster. Chris knew some of the details about the prep and the colon cleansing.
He called Lorraine that morning and made plans to hike and play music. Lorraine called my cell phone right after talking to Chris. She was very understanding and supportive. I was able to talk again about my triggered feelings about my colonoscopy as I shopped for food. My procedure was scheduled for noon. I made use of the morning to do some chores and kept busy rather than fret at home.
My cell phone vibrated. I missed call. I dialed to retrieve the message. My oncology nurse friend Corrinde left a message with advice about what food to eat after my procedure. She advised me to go slow with re-entry with my gym routine. We both go the Y aerobics class and know that it is easy to over do a workout during group exercise. I called her back to thank her for her support.
We drove for 2 more minutes to our destination. Chris pulls the car over to the curb. I left my cell phone with him. He does not own one. I thanked him for the ride. He drove away. I am alone again. I crossed the street and entered the beautiful old building. I entered the waiting room, signed in, and signed away all rights without reading the fine print. Saved a copy for my own file folder. I payed the co-pay with my VISA card then sat down and looked at the waiting room magazines.
I could choose from People magazine or Outside magazine. (I wished I brought a book to read). Instead I looked at ads for $399 ski pants and beer ads and articles about how to survive being attacked by a shark. Fun reading before a colonoscopy?
“Mr. Beckstein?” a cheery young nurse called my name. “Would you please follow me?”
I was glad to leave the waiting room with the music of R & B Oldies playing thru a speaker that sounded like a 1965 transistor radio. Again not very relaxing for this patient.
The cheery nurse walked me twenty feet to a interview room and turned me over to the older nurse named “Angela”. She reviewed my chart and asked all the routine questions for my health history. I had to pull out some data from my own file folder to answer some of her questions.
She escorted me to the next room where I was prepared for "the scope". I put on flesh colored booties and a hospital gown. Blood pressure check, temperature in the ear, warm blanket then the nurse started an IV in my hand. She asked if I needed a magazine to read. I declined. She pulled the curtain and hid my gurney and attended to another patient.
More waiting. I noticed that I was calm and ready to get this done. Twenty minutes later I entered the procedure room. I greeted the doctor and noticed he had good taste in music. The nurse asked me to roll over on my side and bend my knees. The doctor told her the dose of medication and she plugged a needle into the IV rig in my hand and then I faded to a light sleep.
...fade to black...
Thirty minutes later I opened my eyes in the recovery room. The nurse asked me if I could drink a paper cup of water. I asked for a refill.
“Here are the results of your test Mr. Beckstein.” The nurse handed me a printed report with numerous color photographs of my colon.
No cancer. My colon was clean. No evidence of re-occurring disease. This is very good news!
I signed a piece of paper that verified that I got the report. Ten minutes later I left the building a free man.
A man free of cancer.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Preparation for my latest Colonoscopy
My doctor prescribed OsmoPrep sodium phosphate 24 tablets for my colon cleansing. This works better than the liquid medication I got in the past.
My doctor had me stop some medications 5 days before my Colonoscopy.
He put me on a low fiber diet for 3 days before my procedure. No fruits, no vegetables, no bran cereals. I could eat meat and starches like rice and potatoes.
One day before I was on a clear liquid diet.
My doctor had me stop some medications 5 days before my Colonoscopy.
He put me on a low fiber diet for 3 days before my procedure. No fruits, no vegetables, no bran cereals. I could eat meat and starches like rice and potatoes.
One day before I was on a clear liquid diet.
A colonoscopy at high noon
Reactions from my writing group when I asked them to send “good thoughts” for my colonoscopy scheduled for noon on Wednesday…email replies
I have never thought so much about anyone's colon in my life! I will not slack off on Wednesday. Good luck, and happy Thanksgiving.
Autumn
A colonoscopy at high noon. Smacks of a bad western. You can get a pill regime that won't make you vomit. I got it because I told them to give it to me. My vomit regulator broke during chemo. The people who prescribe HalfLytely are assholes. The pill regime works just as well, sans the upchuck. If you need moral support, I can send over my switchblade.
Hugs
Tina
I shall be happy to think good thoughts and say prayers, too. These are important times and procedures.
Blessings, Nancy
And finally the word processor told me to consider revising some items. Not on your life!
Doug Beckstein
11/20/07
I have never thought so much about anyone's colon in my life! I will not slack off on Wednesday. Good luck, and happy Thanksgiving.
Autumn
A colonoscopy at high noon. Smacks of a bad western. You can get a pill regime that won't make you vomit. I got it because I told them to give it to me. My vomit regulator broke during chemo. The people who prescribe HalfLytely are assholes. The pill regime works just as well, sans the upchuck. If you need moral support, I can send over my switchblade.
Hugs
Tina
I shall be happy to think good thoughts and say prayers, too. These are important times and procedures.
Blessings, Nancy
And finally the word processor told me to consider revising some items. Not on your life!
Doug Beckstein
11/20/07
Thursday, November 15, 2007
The Colonoscopy
I went into my proctologist's office for my first rectal exam. His new nurse, Evelyn took me to an examining room and told me to get undressed and have a seat until the doctor could see me. She said that he would only be a few minutes. After putting on the gown that she gave me I sat down.
While waiting I observed that there were three items on a stand next to the exam table: A tube of K-Y jelly, a rubber glove and a beer.
When the doctor finally came in I said, "Look Doc, I'm a little confused. This is my first exam. I know what the K-Y is for and I know what the glove is for, but can you tell me what the beer is for?"
The Doctor became noticeably outraged and stormed over to the door. He flung the door open and yelled to his nurse. "Darn it Evelyn, I said a BUTT LIGHT!"
While waiting I observed that there were three items on a stand next to the exam table: A tube of K-Y jelly, a rubber glove and a beer.
When the doctor finally came in I said, "Look Doc, I'm a little confused. This is my first exam. I know what the K-Y is for and I know what the glove is for, but can you tell me what the beer is for?"
The Doctor became noticeably outraged and stormed over to the door. He flung the door open and yelled to his nurse. "Darn it Evelyn, I said a BUTT LIGHT!"
Friday, November 9, 2007
No Lifeguard on Duty
7:30AM. Oakland YMCA.
I squat in a half filled Jacuzzi. Lukewarm water. Warming tight muscles. Sitting in a tiled tub. Trying to relax before I go to work.
“Juan’s home now.” Leroy announced. He was heading to the steam room.
“I thought he was still in the hospital.” I answered.
“Talked with him last night after dinner. He’s out.” Leroy replied.
“The cancer is in his liver now. He has been in Kaiser for a month.” I blurt out loud to no one in particular. Everyone bows their heads as if in prayer.
Three men look at me with sad eyes and say nothing. One disappears into the steam room. Another picks up his shaving kit and returns to his locker. The third man stares at the water coming into the Jacuzzi trying to relax.
The sign over our heads said, “No lifeguard on duty” in four languages.
I squat in a half filled Jacuzzi. Lukewarm water. Warming tight muscles. Sitting in a tiled tub. Trying to relax before I go to work.
“Juan’s home now.” Leroy announced. He was heading to the steam room.
“I thought he was still in the hospital.” I answered.
“Talked with him last night after dinner. He’s out.” Leroy replied.
“The cancer is in his liver now. He has been in Kaiser for a month.” I blurt out loud to no one in particular. Everyone bows their heads as if in prayer.
Three men look at me with sad eyes and say nothing. One disappears into the steam room. Another picks up his shaving kit and returns to his locker. The third man stares at the water coming into the Jacuzzi trying to relax.
The sign over our heads said, “No lifeguard on duty” in four languages.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Prevent Colon Cancer
The evidence that links various foods with the risk of colon cancer is increasing. Fortunately, most of the foods that are good for you are good to eat as well.
So far, there is no surefire way to prevent colon cancer or a recurrence. But increasing knowledge about contributing factors has revealed that lifestyle choices may lower your risk. Some of the information is surprising and may challenge your assumptions. However, much of the new information echoes time-honored common sense:
-Eat a healthy diet high in fruits and vegetables,
-Maintain an appropriate weight
-Exercise regularly.
Foods to avoid are red meat, charred meat, processed meat, and saturated fat. All are connected with higher cancer risks, though the reason remains unclear. Charred and processed meats have high levels of cancer-promoting chemicals, and saturated fat in red meat may upset the balance of bile acids used for digestion. These foods also contribute to heart disease and other ills.
There is an abundance of good foods. The Mediterranean Diet, which is based on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, fish, and a small amount of meat, is a healthy basis for nutrition.
Fiber is high on the “good” list. It helps to move food through the digestive system and may increase some chemicals known to protect the colon. Studies have generally linked high levels of dietary fiber with low rates of colon cancer and adenomatous polyps, although one recent mega-study did not confirm this. The jury remains out, but for many reasons it’s still good to add fiber (beans, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables) to your diet.
Folic acid -- also known as folate -- is related to a 20–50% lower risk of colon cancer and polyps. It can also offset some effects of alcohol, which inhibits folate production in the body. There is evidence that taking folic acid in a daily multivitamin for five years lowers the risk of colon cancer by almost 50% among women with a family history of colon cancer. All of the sources of dietary fiber listed above contain some folic acid, and you can take it in supplements as well.
Vitamin D and calcium may reduce risks. Higher levels of vitamin D are connected with lower colorectal cancer rates, and calcium in food may lower risks. However, when taken as a supplement, calcium does not appear to have the same effect. Up the odds of lowering your risks by eating calcium-rich dark green vegetables and getting vitamin D in fish, yogurt, milk, and a small amount of daily sunshine.
Other good foods linked with lower colon cancer risks include olive oil, garlic, turmeric, and colorful fruits and vegetables, which are high in antioxidants. The evidence is mixed for coffee, but a moderate amount may reduce risks of both liver and colon cancer.
Source: John's Hopkins Health Letter Nov 6, 2007
So far, there is no surefire way to prevent colon cancer or a recurrence. But increasing knowledge about contributing factors has revealed that lifestyle choices may lower your risk. Some of the information is surprising and may challenge your assumptions. However, much of the new information echoes time-honored common sense:
-Eat a healthy diet high in fruits and vegetables,
-Maintain an appropriate weight
-Exercise regularly.
Foods to avoid are red meat, charred meat, processed meat, and saturated fat. All are connected with higher cancer risks, though the reason remains unclear. Charred and processed meats have high levels of cancer-promoting chemicals, and saturated fat in red meat may upset the balance of bile acids used for digestion. These foods also contribute to heart disease and other ills.
There is an abundance of good foods. The Mediterranean Diet, which is based on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, fish, and a small amount of meat, is a healthy basis for nutrition.
Fiber is high on the “good” list. It helps to move food through the digestive system and may increase some chemicals known to protect the colon. Studies have generally linked high levels of dietary fiber with low rates of colon cancer and adenomatous polyps, although one recent mega-study did not confirm this. The jury remains out, but for many reasons it’s still good to add fiber (beans, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables) to your diet.
Folic acid -- also known as folate -- is related to a 20–50% lower risk of colon cancer and polyps. It can also offset some effects of alcohol, which inhibits folate production in the body. There is evidence that taking folic acid in a daily multivitamin for five years lowers the risk of colon cancer by almost 50% among women with a family history of colon cancer. All of the sources of dietary fiber listed above contain some folic acid, and you can take it in supplements as well.
Vitamin D and calcium may reduce risks. Higher levels of vitamin D are connected with lower colorectal cancer rates, and calcium in food may lower risks. However, when taken as a supplement, calcium does not appear to have the same effect. Up the odds of lowering your risks by eating calcium-rich dark green vegetables and getting vitamin D in fish, yogurt, milk, and a small amount of daily sunshine.
Other good foods linked with lower colon cancer risks include olive oil, garlic, turmeric, and colorful fruits and vegetables, which are high in antioxidants. The evidence is mixed for coffee, but a moderate amount may reduce risks of both liver and colon cancer.
Source: John's Hopkins Health Letter Nov 6, 2007
Monday, November 5, 2007
High Prescription Prices
Drug companies state that the high prescription prices are necessary to fund resource on newer ones. To a certain extent, this is justifiable. Some individuals are bankrupted because of excessive medical costs, including prescriptions. Consider the number of people who simply cannot afford to purchase medications. These may include your aging parents, aunts, and uncles, your next door neighbor, or you. The reduced cost programs are open to a limited few--not those who theoretically have adequate financial resources.
The greed exhibited by large drugstore chains affects all of us. Take a look at Richard Reich's "Supercapitalism". This book may help us to understand the demise of morality in the marketplace.
Support the businesses that support affordable health care. Write to other drug stores like Long's, Rite Aid, Walgreen's, CVS, and Drug World. Let them know that you are switching to pharmacies whose pricing reflects the reality. Remember that many reasonably priced, national chain pharmacies may provide online ordering with mail delivery.
The greed exhibited by large drugstore chains affects all of us. Take a look at Richard Reich's "Supercapitalism". This book may help us to understand the demise of morality in the marketplace.
Support the businesses that support affordable health care. Write to other drug stores like Long's, Rite Aid, Walgreen's, CVS, and Drug World. Let them know that you are switching to pharmacies whose pricing reflects the reality. Remember that many reasonably priced, national chain pharmacies may provide online ordering with mail delivery.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Imagine Fighting Cancer
Imagine fighting cancer with guided imagery. Imagine a soothing voice and relaxing music to program your brain to prepare for surgery. Imagine shrinking and killing cancer cells. Imagine healing quickly after surgery and chemotherapy treatments.
After my colon cancer diagnosis in October 2003, I called my friend Trish to get the name of the guided imagery and affirmations CD that she reported really helped her husband recover from open-heart surgery. She gave me the name of Belleruth Naparstek.
I ordered a Successful Surgery CD from Health Journeys. I played the CD several times each day to prepare me for my abdominal resection surgery. I relaxed in my bed and played the CD and drifted off to Belleruth’s voice. The guided imagery helped me reduce my anxiety of surgery.
Years later, I attended a Belleruth Naparstek seminar for cancer patients and health professionals and she reported that this guided imagery was found to be highly effective in double blind, placebo-controlled research. She reported that Successful Surgery creates the context for a successful, safe and comfortable surgery. The CD has suggestions to reduce bleeding and speed up mending with minimal discomfort. A separate music track can be played in the operating room and affirmations focus on the recovery period.
My friend Trish was right. Guided imagery and affirmations are very helpful.
After my colon cancer diagnosis in October 2003, I called my friend Trish to get the name of the guided imagery and affirmations CD that she reported really helped her husband recover from open-heart surgery. She gave me the name of Belleruth Naparstek.
I ordered a Successful Surgery CD from Health Journeys. I played the CD several times each day to prepare me for my abdominal resection surgery. I relaxed in my bed and played the CD and drifted off to Belleruth’s voice. The guided imagery helped me reduce my anxiety of surgery.
Years later, I attended a Belleruth Naparstek seminar for cancer patients and health professionals and she reported that this guided imagery was found to be highly effective in double blind, placebo-controlled research. She reported that Successful Surgery creates the context for a successful, safe and comfortable surgery. The CD has suggestions to reduce bleeding and speed up mending with minimal discomfort. A separate music track can be played in the operating room and affirmations focus on the recovery period.
My friend Trish was right. Guided imagery and affirmations are very helpful.
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