Women’s Health Tips - BREAST CANCER VACCINE BREAKTHROUGH
A mom is so many things - a best friend, a role model, an inspiration.
Like all women a mom is also someone at risk for a breast cancer diagnosis. It seems impossible to get through this life without knowing someone who has been touched by breast cancer. In fact, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women.
I’ll never forget the strength and courage my mom, a breast cancer survivor, showed in the face of her diagnosis. While Mom’s victory is sweet, it has made me aware of just how important it is to be vigilant in a quest for a cure. Race For The Cure, sporting pink ribbons, donations to the American Cancer Society and the Susan G. Komen Foundation, are just a few of the beautiful ways we can raise awareness and money to aid in the breast cancer battle.
Behind the Scenes
I am constantly on alert for the latest breakthroughs in breast cancer testing and research. Today I am so, SO excited to tell you about what some brilliant American scientists are hoping will prove to be a dramatic advance.
April 17, 2007 at the annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research in Los Angeles, scientists from the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota reported development of a “synthetic peptide” vaccine, which prevented the spread of breast cancer cells in female mice who were in the early stages of tumor development.
The vaccine either slowed or stopped the progression of the breast cancer in ALL the mice!
This vaccine is unique because it is given in conjunction with a “Toll-like receptor” stimulant. This stimulant acts to spur the immune system into action. Thus, the body responds by killing everything that expresses high amounts of HER-2/NEU (the breast cancer producing oncogene).
Getting Closer
In the past, formulations of cancer vaccines have had mixed results. However, scientists are encouraged by this promising unique vaccine/stimulant combination.
Ooohh, it makes me just want to run over to Mayo and give those brilliant minds a great, big smoochie.
Celebrate The Beauty of Health
On this Mother’s Day, be sure to take time to really show your appreciation for the Mother in your life. Remember, “Mom” may be your mommy “proper”, your Grams, the Auntie who’s always stood by your side, or even that special lady who has helped you navigate life’s big challenges.
Sure, brunch and flowers are lovely gestures, but the MOST important gift you can give any woman is the gift of health! This year, think about making a contribution in Mom’s honor to the American Cancer Society or Susan G. Komen. She’ll receive a certificate that lets her know that your gift is one that helps protect her future as well as the health of generations of women to come!
Give a boost to those wonderful scientists who are on the brink of great things! What better way to celebrate Mom’s vitality, strength and dignity?
Happy Mother’s Day!
Love,
Health Sundae
Technorati Tags: breast cancer, American Cancer Society, Susan G. Komen Foundation, American Association for Cancer Research, gift of health
