Much can change in a decade, including treatments for certain types of cancer. Lung cancer is no exception with scientists continuing their tireless work on new advancements in the research of cancer tumor growth, targeted therapies, and emerging fields of cancer research (i.e., immunotherapy) that are able to diagnose lung cancer earlier, and provide successful treatment even in the advanced stages of the disease.
These recent therapies are having a significant effect on the survival of lung cancer patients:
Cancer researchers at Ohio State University’s Comprehensive Cancer Center, are making advancements in targeted therapies designed to analyze the genetic makeup of cancer, and limit the genetic mutations that drive cancer cell growth. As such, new and more precise molecular tests are being developed so proper treatment can be mapped for the patient at the point of diagnosis to improve the success of their cancer therapy.
Recent clinical trials over the past few years are making chemotherapy drugs (and chemo and radiation used together) safer and more effective by studying patterns of the specific genes within the cancer cells. Ongoing lab studies are testing the response of chemo drugs (i.e, carboplatin and gemcitabine) on once thought unresponsive tumors (with high levels of ERCC1 and RRM1 proteins).
A new form of image guided radiation therapy (or IGRT) promises advancements as far as targeting cancerous tumors, and producing few harsh side effects. IGRT makes use of imaging scanners, which allow for minor adjustments and precisely guided radiation therapy.
Advancements in cancer surgery have introduced video-assisted thoracic surgery (or VATS), a type of robotic-assisted surgery, in the treatment of small lung tumors. During surgery, a surgeon will sit at a control panel and use robotic arms with long surgical instruments to remove abnormal cells in lung. VATS means less pain, shorter hospital, and less invasive cancer surgery.
Immunotherapy has gained a lot of attention with reason. This cancer treatment trains and uses a patient’s own immune system to fight cancer. In 2016, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), approved the new immunotherapy drug, Pembrolizumab, to treat the 85% of patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with tumors that express PD-L1. This form of immunotherapy boosts the ability of the immune system to pinpoint and fight the binding PD-L1 protein, which blocks PD-1 immune receptors, and allows tumors to grow. According to oncologists at NYU Langone Medical Center, clinical trials of Pembrolizumab have shown promise, decreasing further cancer growth by 50% and reducing patient fatalities by 40% compared to patients treated with traditional chemotherapy.
While only in the clinical trial stage, lung cancer are being tested in patients unable to withstand the harsh side effects of other cancer treatments. These vaccines (i.e., TG4010) are created using components of lung cancer cell proteins (i.e., MUC1), and aim to treat, not prevent lung cancer, by strengthening immune response.
Normally, one does not know when abnormal breast cancer cells spread and multiply, until one notices a lump near the breast or the armpits. Breast cancer needs accurate diagnosing depending on which stage this disease has progressed; thereafter, the treatment options can be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Breast cancer passes through different stages to spread in the body. Stages 1 and 2 are the earliest and can be easily diagnosed with any surgical intervention. Stages 3 and 4 are the later and advanced stages of breast cancer that need treatment as advised by the doctor. There are several breast cancer treatment options available that can be determined by the biology of the tumor, the stage at which cancer has progressed, patient’s overall health and medical issues, and lastly, the patient’s personal preference. Common breast cancer treatment options are as follows.
Under this treatment, the doctors treat the tumor locally meaning without affecting any other part of the body other than the breast. The methods used for local treatments are surgery and radiation therapy. Surgery involves removal of tumor and also examines the axillary lymph nodes location. There are two types of surgery:
This surgical procedure involves removal of tumor and a small part of healthy tissue that is free from cancer.
This procedure involves the surgical removal of entire affected breast.
This treatment is basically used to eliminate cancer cells that have spread to other parts of body. Systemic therapy is a drug therapy induced either by orally through pill or by vein. Depending on the stage of the breast cancer, the therapies suggested are as follows.
This therapy involves treating cancer with medication. The oncologist uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. The side effects of chemotherapy include nausea, hair loss, and loss of appetite.
Oncologists suggest this hormone or endocrine therapy for tumors that test positive for estrogen or progesterone receptors. Hormonal therapy is given before the surgery for shrinking tumor.
In this therapy, cancer-specific genes, proteins or tissues are targeted, which are responsible for cancer growth and survival. Without damaging the healthy cells, targeted therapy blocks the growth and spread of cancer cells.
Breast cancer treatment options vary from patient to patient. Surgery is needed at any point to remove the tumor. Whether one goes for local or systematic treatment, the specialist has to determine tumor stage, grade, hormone receptor status, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) status. Along with that, medical condition history and age of the patient are considered before starting the treatment.
Cancer cells are notorious for recurrence. After one has evaluated all breast cancer treatment options, one needs to take care after procedures and have regular follow-ups with the doctor. Checkups include neck, armpit, chest, and breast area examination. To prevent any new cancer cells from recurring, regular mammograms are necessary. Eating healthy diet before and after treatment is of utmost necessity for proper response to the treatment.
Fashion is such an individualized thing. Everyone is different and therefore everyone has personal preferences when it comes to different types of dresses. One thing is true though; it’s important to have at least one versatile and flattering dress in your wardrobe. When determining what type to choose, there are several styles to consider that can be appropriate for different types of events and different figures.
Women today attend many events that require dressing up for the occasion. These may include weddings, dates, parties, work events, and brunch. When looking to buy a dress to suit a wide range of occasions, here are some flattering options for all ages and body types:
1. Wrap dresses
Wrap dresses are exactly what they sound like. These dresses are pulled together with a front closure. One side of the dress is wrapped across the front and then either goes behind the back part of the waist to either be attached by buttons or tied. The construction of this dress creates a v-neck front. It also accentuates the curves of the wearer in the chest area.
2. Maxi dresses
Maxi dresses are a great option for many occasions. They are long and go to the floor. Generally, they are designed to fit the body on the top, and then be flowy and long on the bottom. The fun thing about them is they can feature many different necklines and come in various patterns and colors. This makes them very individualized to the person.
3. A-Line dresses
A-line dresses are named after the shape they take on the body, which is an “A”. They fit to the top part of the body and begin to flare gradually out at the waist and hips, becoming wider as the hem progresses. A-line clothing can be found not just in dresses, but also in coats and skirts.
4. Little black dresses
Everyone has heard of the little black dress. This is such a versatile option that can be found in your closet. It can be dressed up or down for numerous types of events. As a general design, it is usually a simple dress that tends to be quite short. The elegance and simplicity create a fairly blank canvas that allows you to create the exact type of look that you want. Many designers provide limitless options for this much-needed wardrobe essential. Victoria Beckham cocktail dresses are one good brand to consider.
5. Mini dresses
A mini, or short dress that hangs just above the knees is a common style. This design became popular in the 1920’s. It was later revitalized in the 1960s, and has remained an integral part of many wardrobes ever since. A mini shift style dress is a loose-fitting dress that is very comfortable and does not fit tightly around the waist or any part of the body. It is loose at both the hips and the waist so the dress falls loosely down from the shoulders all the way down to the bottom of the dress. Darts are generally located in the bust area. It is a straight silhouette that can be flattering for those that have bodies that are shaped more like a column and it also elongates petite figures as it shows off the legs.
When shopping for dresses, every designer has his or her own individual interpretation. It is fun, and a great idea to look at the individual designers and fashion forward celebrities to find the one that fits your aesthetic most closely. Also, remember that designers also have many other clothing options. As an example, when looking at what stars wear, like Kourtney Kardashian or Victoria Beckham (blouses, skirts, dresses and pants), you might find a designer that the star tends to wear a lot that you can draw inspiration from.
The right handbag can really accentuate your outfit of the day. There are also many styles and functions for different handbags. You could have a handback that works as a daily driver – a bag that you take to run errands or to the store. You could also have a bag that’s perfect for traveling or for a night out. Whatever the case may be, these are five handbags that are sure to be everywhere this season:
1. Versace Chunky Chain Bag
This Versace bag features a chunky chain which really is the stand out feature on this bag. The chain provides a cool effect when you wear it, that really draws your eyes to it. In typical Versace fashion, the chunky chain bag is made of high quality materials and is a great value for the price.
2. Lanvin Puffy Cloud Bag
The Lanvin Puffy Cloud Bag is another bag you’ll be seeing a lot of in 2021. This bag is one of the top trends in handbags right now, and for good reason. The Lanvin quality is apparent and you can really wear this on any occasion, formal or casual.
3. Stella McCartney Hobo Bag
The Stella McCartney Hobo bag has a relaxed look about it. It appears slightly slouched in nature, which provides a really cool effect. This bag can be dressed up for a nice, formal event or dressed down for a nice casual day. This bag is incredibly versatile and provides enough room for all of your belongings. It has two slip pockets and an interior compartment for maximum storage. This is one bag that can really do it all.
4. Bottega Veneta Fisherman Shoulder Bag
The Bottega Veneta Fisherman Shoulder Bag is extremely trendy right now, and for good reason. The bag features a scale like pattern which is the standout feature. It also features a shoulder strap for great versatility and a super comfortable wear. The bag features high quality materials and enough room to keep all your belongings stored nicely. This bag leans a bit casual but is a great bag if you’re looking to make a statement throughout the day.
5. Fendi Fluffy Feathers Bag
The Fendi fluffy feathers bag is a bag that’s sure to make a statement. This bag is made of high quality materials, in typical Fendi fashion. The fluffy feathers bag is covered in ostrich feathers. This bag is incredibly unique and will turn all the heads. It’s also very versatile in that all of the straps are detachable so you could wear this as a shoulder bag or as a little handheld purse. When you pair this with a stunning dress, you will be sure to turn heads at any formal event or night out on the town.
These bags can be found at many of your favorite retailers and department stores. Make sure to shop Saks Fifth Avenue bags for the latest in deals and trends for the 2021 year.
Jewelry is the one of the best accent pieces for any outfit you choose to wear. The right necklace, or the right bracelet, can really put the finishing touch on an amazing outfit. You may opt to wear a necklace on a night out, or a set of bangles to run some errands. Either way there are a few styling hacks to help maximize your jewelry. Here are six jewelry styling hacks to follow:
1. Use earrings for a pop of color
It can be a great idea to match a few pieces of jewelry, however, when they’re all very similar in style and color, they can really blend together. To solve this issue, try using earrings to create that pop of color. Earrings can really balance out an outfit
2. Know when it’s too much
Jewelry can provide a great accent to your favorite outfit but you need to be careful you don’t overdo it. By having too much, you’re really taking away from the effect your jewelry adds to your outfit
3. Personalize with statement jewelry
Something like customized wrist bracelets can be super personal. This can be a piece that no one has that truly stands out on its own. These are often hard to duplicate because they’re one of a kind and customized. Check Kay Jewelers clearance sale and see if there’s anything that you could customize and make truly unique
4. Minimal jewelry with patterned clothing
When your outfit is full of patterns, it’s already incredibly loud. Something like stripes or plaid can be a super powerful statement in itself so when picking out jewelry, make sure to keep it minimal. When it’s overdone it can have the opposite effect of what you’re looking for. One simple necklace or bracelet can be a nice, quick addition to a loud outfit with many patterns
5. Create layers with necklaces and bangles
Sometimes when we wear jewelry it can be hard to get the most out of it. Sometimes our jewelry is too thin and won’t really pop with our outfits. That’s where layering comes into play. By layering bangles you can create a super nice, textured set of bracelets that will surely stand out. With necklaces, you want to look at the style and length. By mixing and layering different necklace lengths, you can create the illusion of a much bigger piece and have them all flow together seamlessly. Either way, you really can’t go wrong with layering
6. Mix metals in jewelry
Most jewelry is made of various metals like gold, silver, and platinum. By combining different metals, you can really make them pop. When mixing and matching gold and silver you really create a palate with different colors and materials. It helps them stand out. When you wear all your jewellery in one material or one color, the pieces tend to blend in with each other. Mixing metals will help your pieces to really make a statement
When choosing jewelry, make sure to follow these 6 hacks for best results!
