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Kate Middleton is having ‘preventive chemotherapy’ for cancer. What does this mean?

<p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/ian-olver-1047">Ian Olver</a>, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-adelaide-1119">University of Adelaide</a></em></p> <p>Catherine, Princess of Wales, is undergoing treatment for cancer. In a video thanking followers for their messages of support after her major abdominal surgery, the Princess of Wales explained, “tests after the operation found cancer had been present.”</p> <p>“My medical team therefore advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy and I am now in the early stages of that treatment,” she said in the two-minute video.</p> <p>No further details have been released about the Princess of Wales’ treatment.</p> <p>But many have been asking what preventive chemotherapy is and how effective it can be. Here’s what we know about this type of treatment.</p> <h2>It’s not the same as preventing cancer</h2> <p>To <a href="https://www.cancer.org.au/about-us/how-we-help/prevention">prevent cancer developing</a>, lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise and sun protection are <a href="https://www.cancer.org.au/about-us/how-we-help/prevention">recommended</a>.</p> <p>Tamoxifen, a hormone therapy drug can be used to reduce the risk of cancer for some patients at <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/breast-cancer/in-depth/breast-cancer/art-20045353">high risk of breast cancer</a>.</p> <p>Aspirin <a href="https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/research/aspirin-cancer-risk">can also be used</a> for those at high risk of bowel and other cancers.</p> <h2>How can chemotherapy be used as preventive therapy?</h2> <p>In terms of treating cancer, prevention refers to giving chemotherapy after the cancer has been removed, to prevent the cancer from returning.</p> <p>If a cancer is localised (limited to a certain part of the body) with no evidence on scans of it spreading to distant sites, local treatments such as surgery or radiotherapy can remove all of the cancer.</p> <p>If, however, cancer is first detected after it has spread to distant parts of the body at diagnosis, clinicians use treatments such as chemotherapy (anti-cancer drugs), hormones or immunotherapy, which circulate <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/cancer/metastatic-cancer">around the body</a> .</p> <p>The other use for chemotherapy is to add it before or after surgery or radiotherapy, to prevent the primary cancer <a href="https://www.verywellhealth.com/adjuvant-therapy-5198903">coming back</a>. The surgery may have cured the cancer. However, in some cases, undetectable microscopic cells may have spread into the bloodstream to distant sites. This will result in the cancer returning, months or years later.</p> <p>With some cancers, treatment with chemotherapy, given before or after the local surgery or radiotherapy, can kill those cells and prevent the cancer coming back.</p> <p>If we can’t see these cells, how do we know that giving additional chemotherapy to prevent recurrence is effective? We’ve learnt this from clinical trials. Researchers have compared patients who had surgery only with those whose surgery was followed by additional (or often called adjuvant) chemotherapy. The additional therapy resulted in patients not relapsing and surviving longer.</p> <h2>How effective is preventive therapy?</h2> <p>The effectiveness of preventive therapy depends on the type of cancer and the type of chemotherapy.</p> <p>Let’s consider the common example of bowel cancer, which is at high risk of returning after surgery because of its size or spread to local lymph glands. The <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7564362/">first chemotherapy tested</a> improved survival by 15%. With more intense chemotherapy, the chance of surviving six years is approaching 80%.</p> <p>Preventive chemotherapy is usually given for three to six months.</p> <h2>How does chemotherapy work?</h2> <p>Many of the chemotherapy drugs stop cancer cells dividing by disrupting the DNA (genetic material) in the centre of the cells. To improve efficacy, drugs which work at different sites in the cell are given in combinations.</p> <p>Chemotherapy is not selective for cancer cells. It kills any dividing cells.</p> <p>But cancers consist of a higher proportion of dividing cells than the normal body cells. A <a href="https://www.canceraustralia.gov.au/cancer-types/breast-cancer/treatment/chemotherapy/how-does-chemotherapy-work#:%7E:text=Chemotherapy%20works%20by%20killing%20cells%20that%20are%20rapidly,cells%20can%20repair%20the%20damage%20and%20can%20recover.">greater proportion of the cancer is killed</a> with each course of chemotherapy.</p> <p>Normal cells can recover between courses, which are usually given three to four weeks apart.</p> <h2>What are the side effects?</h2> <p>The side effects of chemotherapy are usually reversible and are seen in parts of the body where there is normally a high turnover of cells.</p> <p>The production of blood cells, for example, is temporarily disrupted. When your white blood cell count is low, there is an increased risk of infection.</p> <p>Cell death in the lining of the gut leads to mouth ulcers, nausea and vomiting and bowel disturbance.</p> <p>Certain drugs sometimes given during chemotherapy can attack other organs, such as causing numbness in the hands and feet.</p> <p>There are also generalised symptoms such as <a href="https://www.cancervic.org.au/cancer-information/treatments/treatments-types/chemotherapy/side_effects_of_chemotherapy.html">fatigue</a>.</p> <p>Given that preventive chemotherapy given after surgery starts when there is no evidence of any cancer remaining after local surgery, patients can usually resume normal activities within weeks of completing the courses of chemotherapy.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/226461/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/ian-olver-1047">Ian Olver</a>, Adjunct Professsor, School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-adelaide-1119">University of Adelaide</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images </em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/kate-middleton-is-having-preventive-chemotherapy-for-cancer-what-does-this-mean-226461">original article</a>.</em></p>

Body

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Couple who found love in chemotherapy raise funds for final trip

<p>Ainslie Plumb, 22, and Joe Fan, 29, found love in an unexpected place, at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital. </p> <p>The couple met in 2022 while they were both undergoing leukaemia treatment. </p> <p>“We met at an event for young people with cancer and became friends following that,” Plumb told <em>7News</em>. </p> <p>“(We) would hang out during our hospital stays, I asked him out in October 2022 and (we) have been together ever since.” </p> <p>While Plumb successfully entered remission, last October, Fan was told that he was now terminal, as doctors had run out of options to treat his Philadelphia chromosome positive acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. </p> <p>With only months left to live, Fan, who has actively given back to the hospital and cancer community by playing his violin for patients and staff and worked with the Queensland Youth Cancer Service, has one final wish - to travel. </p> <p>The couple have set a <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-joe-live-his-dreams" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GoFundMe</a>, to help raise funds which cover flights, accommodation and specialised travel insurance, for Fan's final trip.</p> <p>“I go through my cancer treatments and observe the toll that takes on my physical and mental wellbeing,” Fan said.</p> <p>“The end of a trip can hopefully mark the start of another — and I have held onto hope, looked forward and dreamed for one more trip, more time, one more experience with that someone I love.”</p> <p>Their first destination will be Taiwan and Hong Kong, where Fan's parents are from and where he spent a majority of his childhood. </p> <p>They also intend to travel to New Zealand and Western Australia to swim with whale sharks at Ningaloo in the state’s north.</p> <p>“We’re aiming at going at the end of February to give us time to co-ordinate with his doctors around his appointments and infusions, which are all booked in advance,” Plumb said. </p> <p>“We recently reached 75 per cent on the fundraiser and are hoping to hit 100 per cent perhaps by the end of January.”</p> <p>As of today, the couple have successfully raised over $21,000 from their $20,000 goal, and have thanked everyone in their community and strangers for their support. </p> <p>“Truly, words do not suffice,” the couple said.</p> <p><em>Images: 7News </em></p>

Relationships

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From straight to curly, thick to thin: here’s how hormones and chemotherapy can change

<p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/theresa-larkin-952095">Theresa Larkin</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-wollongong-711">University of Wollongong</a></em></p> <p>Head hair comes in many colours, shapes and sizes, and hairstyles are often an expression of personal style or cultural identity.</p> <p><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36631178/">Many different genes</a> determine our hair texture, thickness and colour. But some people’s hair changes around the time of puberty, pregnancy or after chemotherapy.</p> <p>So, what can cause hair to become curlier, thicker, thinner or grey?</p> <h2>Curly or straight? How hair follicle shape plays a role</h2> <p>Hair is made of <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/23204-keratin">keratin</a>, a strong and insoluble protein. Each hair strand grows from its own <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470321/">hair follicle</a> that extends deep into the skin.</p> <p>Curly hair forms due to asymmetry of both the <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6894537/">hair follicle and the keratin</a> in the hair.</p> <p>Follicles that produce <a href="https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318524">curly hair</a> are asymmetrical and curved and lie at an angle to the surface of the skin. This kinks the hair as it first grows.</p> <p>The asymmetry of the hair follicle also causes the keratin to bunch up on one side of the hair strand. This pulls parts of the hair strand closer together into a curl, which maintains the curl as the hair continues to grow.</p> <p>Follicles that are symmetrical, round and perpendicular to the skin surface produce straight hair.</p> <figure class="align-center zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/567020/original/file-20231221-29-fp0wci.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/567020/original/file-20231221-29-fp0wci.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/567020/original/file-20231221-29-fp0wci.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=600&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/567020/original/file-20231221-29-fp0wci.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=600&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/567020/original/file-20231221-29-fp0wci.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=600&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/567020/original/file-20231221-29-fp0wci.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=754&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/567020/original/file-20231221-29-fp0wci.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=754&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/567020/original/file-20231221-29-fp0wci.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=754&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" alt="A diagram shows the hair follicle shape of straight, curly and coiled hair." /></a><figcaption><span class="caption">Each hair strand grows from its own hair follicle.</span> <span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-vector/diagram-hair-follicle-shape-vector-illustration-2248429145">Mosterpiece/Shutterstock</a></span></figcaption></figure> <h2>Life changes, hair changes</h2> <p>Our hair undergoes repeated cycles throughout life, with different stages of growth and loss.</p> <p>Each hair follicle contains stem cells, which multiply and <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fcell.2022.899095/full">grow into a hair strand</a>.</p> <p>Head hairs spend most of their time in <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5905671/">the growth phase</a>, which can last for several years. This is why head hair can grow so long.</p> <p>Let’s look at the life of a single hair strand. After the growth phase is a transitional phase of about two weeks, where the hair strand stops growing. This is followed by a resting phase where the hair remains in the follicle for a few months before it <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/stages-of-hair-growth">naturally falls out</a>.</p> <p>The hair follicle <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/exd.13347">remains in the skin</a> and the stems cells grow a new hair to repeat the cycle.</p> <p>Each hair on the scalp is replaced <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4606321/#b3">every three to five years</a>.</p> <h2>Hormone changes during and after pregnancy alter the usual hair cycle</h2> <p>Many women notice their hair is <a href="https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/pregnancy-hair">thicker during pregnancy</a>.</p> <p>During pregnancy, high levels of <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4908443/">oestrogen, progesterone and prolactin</a> prolong the resting phase of the hair cycle. This means the hair <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7432488/">stays in the hair follicle for longer</a>, with less hair loss.</p> <p>A drop in hormones a few months after delivery causes increased hair loss. This is due to all the hairs that remained in the resting phase during pregnancy falling out in a fairly synchronised way.</p> <h2>Hair can change around puberty, pregnancy or after chemotherapy</h2> <p>This is related to the genetics of hair shape, which is an example of <a href="https://www.biologyonline.com/dictionary/incomplete-dominance">incomplete dominance</a>.</p> <p>Incomplete dominance is when there is a middle version of a trait. For hair, we have curly hair and straight hair genes. But when someone has one curly hair gene and one straight hair gene, they can have wavy hair.</p> <p>Hormonal changes that occur around <a href="https://clinicalepigeneticsjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13148-019-0780-4">puberty</a> and <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/20/12698">pregnancy</a> can affect the function of genes. This can cause the curly hair gene of someone with wavy hair to become more active. This can change their hair from wavy to curly.</p> <p>Researchers have identified that activating specific genes can change hair in pigs <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fgene.2023.1184015/full">from straight to curly</a>.</p> <p><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5759815/">Chemotherapy</a> has very visible effects on hair. Chemotherapy kills rapidly dividing cells, <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaoncology/fullarticle/2628766">including hair follicles</a>, which causes hair loss. Chemotherapy can also have <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1988866/">genetic effects</a> that influence hair follicle shape. This can cause hair to <a href="https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/chemo-curls">regrow with a different shape</a> for the first few cycles of hair regrowth.</p> <h2>Hormonal changes as we age also affect our hair</h2> <p>Throughout life, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7432488/">thyroid hormones</a> are essential for production of keratin. Low levels of thyroid hormones can cause dry and brittle hair.</p> <p><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36578854/">Oestrogen and androgens</a> also regulate hair growth and loss, particularly as we age.</p> <p>Balding in males is due to <a href="https://theconversation.com/starting-to-thin-out-hair-loss-doesnt-have-to-lead-to-baldness-34984">higher levels of androgens</a>. In particular, high dihydrotestosterone (sometimes shortened to DHT), which is produced in the body from testosterone, has a role in <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7269836/">male pattern baldness</a>.</p> <p>Some women experience <a href="https://theconversation.com/health-check-why-does-womens-hair-thin-out-39126">female pattern hair loss</a>. This is caused by a combination of genetic factors plus lower levels of <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/12/3/893">oestrogen and higher androgens</a> after menopause. The hair follicles become smaller and smaller until they no longer produce hairs.</p> <p>Reduced function of the cells that produce <a href="https://www.health.com/mind-body/what-going-gray-early-can-tell-you-about-your-health">melanin</a> (the pigment that gives our hair colour) is what causes greying.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/219329/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/theresa-larkin-952095"><em>Theresa Larkin</em></a><em>, Associate professor of Medical Sciences, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-wollongong-711">University of Wollongong</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: </em><em>Shutterstock </em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/from-straight-to-curly-thick-to-thin-heres-how-hormones-and-chemotherapy-can-change-your-hair-219329">original article</a>.</em></p>

Caring

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Finding purpose through adversity

<p>Jessie Shi is on a mission to change wellness in New Zealand forever.</p> <p>That sounds like a lofty ambition, but it’s one that comes from a commitment ignited by adversity.</p> <p>Jessie was only 30 when she heard the news no one at any age wants to hear.</p> <p>“I was six months pregnant, happily married, healthy, and excited about what my future might hold. Then everything changed in an instant. The doctors had discovered a tumour bigger than my baby’s head around my uterus.”</p> <p>Jessie had emergency surgery to save her baby and remove a cancerous tumour. She then had to undergo many months of debilitating treatment. But the treatment was just the beginning of the journey.</p> <p>Chemotherapy doesn’t build people up; it breaks them down – ravaging the body to get the cancer. In many ways, the hardest and longest part of the journey is what comes after the chemo and radiation stops. The start of a long road back to wellness.</p> <p>“I came from a pharmaceutical background, so I knew the power of modern drugs. But there was a point where chemicals weren’t enough, and my recovery stalled. At that point, I knew I needed to try to use the power of nature to help me find my way back to wellness,” says Jessie.</p> <p>“I spent years studying options and learning about what was available to me.”</p> <p>As Jessie regained her strength, she decided she could make a difference to New Zealanders by sharing her experience and new-found knowledge to help people live healthier lives. And through that journey, AJE Healthcare started.</p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/03/JessieS_HERO_1280.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p>Jessie’s mission was to make natural healthcare easy to understand and effective in helping people live their best lives.</p> <p>The first brand to join AJE was <a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gold Health</a> – a trusted brand with a loyal customer base and a superior quality range of products. Gold Health has traditionally targeted the mature New Zealand customer segment, albeit the products are relevant for any age. But this is just the beginning for Jessie. She is determined to grow her business, serve her customers delightfully, and make natural healthcare accessible to all New Zealanders.</p> <p>“Gold Health has served tens of thousands of New Zealanders, and the trust and loyalty our customers have shown us over the last 20 years have been tremendously humbling,” says Jessie.</p> <p>“To this day, we cherish the time spent helping our customers. We take the time to understand their needs and to provide advice around our solutions. We treat each customer as we would our own family – with care, empathy, and love!”</p> <p>Check out the products below, and be a part of Jessie's mission towards proactive and natural health by choosing <a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gold Health</a> as your ally.</p> <p><strong>Gold Health’s Hero Products</strong></p> <p><a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/XTR-Vision"><strong>XTR-Vision High-Strength Lutein and Zeaxanthin</strong></a></p> <p><a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/XTR-Vision" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/03/vision_1280.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="896" /></a></p> <p><strong>Wondering why it's our best-selling product since day one?</strong></p> <p><a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/XTR-Vision" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gold Health XTR-Vision</a> formula is backed by two extensive US studies on eye health and is crafted with scientifically-studied ingredients to support healthy eyes.</p> <p>Our carefully-selected blend packs a punch with 20mg of Lutein and 10mg of Zeaxanthin, two key nutrients for optimal eye health. Countless customers have recommended XTR-Vision by their eye specialists, and we're proud to offer a product that can add value to people’s eye health.</p> <p>High-strength Lutein and Zeaxanthin are two essential nutrients that work together to support optimal eye health. These powerful antioxidants have been extensively studied for their ability to protect the eyes from harmful blue light and oxidative stress, which can cause damage to the retina and impair vision. By incorporating a high-strength Lutein and Zeaxanthin supplement into your daily routine, you can provide your eyes with the nutrients they need to maintain their health and function at their best.</p> <p>Research has shown that a combination of Lutein and Zeaxanthin can help reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. This powerful duo works by filtering out harmful blue light and neutralising free radicals that can damage the eyes. With regular use, a high-strength Lutein and Zeaxanthin supplement can help support healthy eyesight, improve vision clarity, and reduce eye strain, making it easier to enjoy your favourite activities for longer periods of time.</p> <p>Don't wait until you start experiencing vision problems to take action. By incorporating a high-strength Lutein and Zeaxanthin supplement into your daily routine, you can take a proactive approach to your eye health and give your eyes the support they need to function at their best. So why not give it a try? Your eyes will thank you.</p> <p><a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/XTR-Vision" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Support your eye health naturally, starting today.</a></p> <p><a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/super-fish-oil/"><strong>Super Fish Oil Double Strength Omega 3</strong></a></p> <p><a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/super-fish-oil/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/03/fish-oil_1280.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="1022" /></a></p> <p><strong>Meet Our Most Gifted Product Last Christmas</strong></p> <p>Fish oil is a natural and powerful supplement that has numerous health benefits. It contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining optimal health and well-being. Omega-3 fatty acids play a critical role in maintaining heart health by reducing inflammation, lowering blood pressure, and improving cholesterol levels. They are also essential for brain health, as they help support cognitive function and memory.</p> <p>Fish oil has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for those suffering from conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease. Additionally, fish oil has been shown to help reduce the risk of certain cancers, including breast, colon, and prostate cancer.</p> <p>Incorporating fish oil into your daily routine is an easy way to support your overall health and well-being. Whether you're looking to improve heart health, support brain function, or reduce inflammation, fish oil can help.</p> <p><a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/super-fish-oil/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gold Health Super Fish Oil</a> offers unbeatable value, providing a full year's supply for just $49. This premium supplement is formulated with double the normal strength of DHA and EPA, two essential omega-3 fatty acids that play a vital role in maintaining overall health and well-being. We carefully source only the highest quality ingredients, using sustainably wild-caught fish from the pristine waters of the South Pacific Ocean. To ensure the purity and safety of our product, every batch of <a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/super-fish-oil/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gold Health Super Fish Oil</a> is rigorously tested for impurities, including mercury, heavy metals, and pesticides, and complies with strict international quality standards. With <a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/super-fish-oil/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gold Health Super Fish Oil</a>, you can trust that you're getting the best possible supplement to support your health and wellbeing.</p> <p><a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/super-fish-oil/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Claim a year of natural support!</a></p> <p><a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/super-magnesium/"><strong>Super Magnesium Muscle Relax and Sleep Support</strong></a></p> <p><a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/super-magnesium/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/03/magnesium_1280.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="781" /></a></p> <p><strong>Why Our Customers Swear by This Product for a Peaceful Night's Sleep</strong></p> <p><a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/super-magnesium/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gold Health Super Magnesium</a> is a superior supplement that contains four organic magnesium salts, allowing for optimal absorption in the body compared to inorganic alternatives. This supplement is specifically designed to support natural muscle relaxation and facilitate a restful night's sleep. The <a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/sleep-pack/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">perfect combination with Gold Health Super Sleep</a>, an advanced herbal formula designed to support peaceful sleep and relaxation of the mind. The combination of these two powerful supplements helps to facilitate falling asleep, staying asleep, and transitioning smoothly through sleep cycles. With <a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/sleep-pack/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gold Health Super Magnesium and Super Sleep</a>, you can achieve a truly restful night's sleep, allowing you to wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day.</p> <p>Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, including the regulation of muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and blood pressure regulation. When it comes to sleep and relaxation, magnesium is particularly important in helping to reduce muscle tension and promote a sense of calm and relaxation.</p> <p>In addition to their benefits for promoting healthy sleep and muscle relaxation, organic magnesium salts are also known to provide a range of other health benefits. These include support for cardiovascular health, immune function, and bone health, as well as a potential role in reducing inflammation throughout the body.</p> <p>Magnesium has been shown to play a key role in maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart function, as well as supporting healthy immune function and bone density. It may also have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as arthritis and heart disease.</p> <p><a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/sleep-pack/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Discover better sleep today!</a></p> <p><a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/super-joint/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Gold Health Super Joint Glucosamine and Chondroitin</strong></a></p> <p><a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/super-joint/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/03/joint_1280.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="926" /></a></p> <p><strong>Unlock Your Joint Freedom</strong></p> <p>Glucosamine and chondroitin are two nutrients that are often used together to support joint health and reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a condition that occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints begins to break down, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.</p> <p>Glucosamine is a naturally occurring compound that is found in the body and is a key building block for the formation and repair of cartilage. Chondroitin is another naturally occurring substance that is found in cartilage and is thought to help improve joint mobility and reduce inflammation.</p> <p>When taken together, glucosamine and chondroitin have been shown to help reduce discomfort and stiffness in the joints, improve mobility, and support the body’s natural inflammatory response. Studies have found that these supplements can be particularly effective in improving knee function in people with osteoarthritis.</p> <p>In addition to their joint health benefits, glucosamine and chondroitin may also have other health benefits, such as supporting healthy digestion and gut health.</p> <p><a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/super-joint/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gold Health Super Joint</a> is a premium joint nutrient complex that is designed to support joint health and mobility. It contains the active forms of glucosamine and chondroitin, which are key building blocks for cartilage and can help to reduce discomfort and stiffness in the joints. The formulation is enhanced with carefully chosen co-factors that work together to support the ultimate joint health.</p> <p><a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/super-joint/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Unlock your joint freedom today!</a></p> <p>For more information on how Gold Health can help you and your family, visit <a href="https://goldhealth.co.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">goldhealth.co.nz</a> or call 0800 777 377 and make 2023 your year for being healthy – the natural way!</p> <p><em>Images: Supplied</em></p> <p><em>This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with Gold Health.</em></p>

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TV host explains why he didn’t treat late son’s cancer

<p dir="ltr">TV host Nick Cannon has revealed why his late son Zen did not receive treatment after he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer.</p> <p dir="ltr">In his latest interview with<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://people.com/parents/nick-cannon-opens-up-losing-son-zen-cancer-people-cover/?utm_source=instagram&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=people_people&amp;utm_term=curalate_like2buy" target="_blank"><em>People</em></a>, Cannon spoke about his own experience with chemotherapy during his battle with lupus and said it influenced his decision to not proceed with the same treatment for his son. He explained that he didn’t want his young son to “suffer”.</p> <p dir="ltr">The<span> </span><em>Masked Singer</em><span> </span>star shared Zen with former model Alyssa Scott, and explained how they came to their decision.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We were having quality of life conversations,” he<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/nick-cannon-reveals-he-chose-not-to-treat-late-sons-cancer/WOH3VM56FDSJ7L64WAJ3P4GLF4/" target="_blank">said</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We could have had that existence where he would’ve had to live in the hospital, hooked up to machines, for the rest of the time. From someone who’s had to deal with chemotherapy before, I know that pain. To see that happen to a two-month-old, I didn’t want that. I didn’t want him to suffer.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The actor, who starred on the cover of<span> </span><em>People</em>, said “we had a short time with a true angel”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“My heart is shattered. I wish I could have done more, spent more time with him, taken more pictures. I wish I could have hugged him longer.”</p> <p dir="ltr">In August, Zen was diagnosed with a high-grade glioma, a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer, at just two-months old.</p> <p dir="ltr">After doctors did all they could to treat him, Cannon and Scott decided to give their son the best life they could, no matter how long or short it would be.</p> <p dir="ltr">Cannon first<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://oversixty.co.nz/news/news/tv-host-announces-death-of-5-month-old-son" target="_blank">shared the news of Zen’s passing</a><span> </span>on his talk show while recounting the difficult moments during his son’s health battle.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Over the weekend I lost my youngest son to a condition called hydrocephalus that is pretty much a malignant, midline brain tumour - brain cancer,” he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">The couple spent their last day with Zen at the beach watching the sunrise and sunset together.</p> <p dir="ltr">He then passed away on December 5 with his parents by his side.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I see it as a blessing that I got to be there,” Cannon told<span> </span><em>People</em>. “Alyssa says, ‘I think he was just waiting for you.’”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

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70% of women with breast cancer may not need chemotherapy, finds landmark study

<p><em><strong>Darren Saunders is a cancer biologist in the School of Medical Sciences at UNSW Sydney. </strong></em></p> <p>Findings from a <a href="https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1804710?query=featured_home">major international clinical trial</a> suggest a significant number of women with the most common form of early-stage breast cancer do not need chemotherapy after surgery.</p> <p>The results of the so-called <em>TAILORx</em> trial were presented yesterday at the annual meeting of the <a href="https://am.asco.org/">American Society of Clinical Oncology</a> and concurrently published in the <a href="https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1804710">New England Journal of Medicine</a>.</p> <p><strong>Breast cancer types</strong></p> <p>The study looked at over 10,000 women with one specific type of breast cancer known as hormone-receptor–positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)–negative, lymph node–negative breast cancer.</p> <p>Not all breast tumours behave the same way, with a number of different subtypes of breast cancer defined by genetic and protein markers. There are five to six main subtypes, depending on the classification system used. But with genome sequencing it’s becoming apparent each patient’s disease has subtle differences at the molecular level. These <a href="https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/patient/breast-treatment-pdq">different subtypes are treated differently</a>, and can have significantly different outcomes for patients.</p> <p>The subset of breast tumours that form the focus of this study are driven by hormones (oestrogen), do not respond to drugs such as <a href="https://canceraustralia.gov.au/affected-cancer/cancer-types/breast-cancer/treatment/what-does-treatment-breast-cancer-involve/targeted-therapies/types-targeted-therapy/trastuzumab-herceptin">trastuzumab</a>(also known as Herceptin - an engineered antibody that targets HER2), and haven’t yet spread to the lymph nodes. They represent roughly half of the more than 17,000 new cases of breast cancer <a href="https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/cancer/breast-cancer-in-australia-an-overview/contents/summary">diagnosed in Australia every year</a>.</p> <p>Patients with these kind of tumours typically undergo surgery followed by treatment with drugs that target rapidly dividing cells (chemotherapy) and drugs that block the production or action of the hormone oestrogen (endocrine therapy, such as the drug Tamoxifen).</p> <p>Results from this study suggest many women with this specific type of tumour do not receive any additional benefit from having chemotherapy in combination with endocrine therapy, compared to endocrine therapy alone. This has the potential to spare thousands of women from the awful side effects of chemotherapy, including nausea, hair loss, and heart and nerve damage.</p> <p>This study used a genetic test (called “Oncotype DX”) to measure a panel of 21 genes that help predict risk of cancer recurrence. Importantly, chemotherapy still showed some benefit in women with higher Oncotype recurrence scores, and in some women under the age of 50.</p> <p>Although mortality rates have decreased significantly over the last few decades, breast cancer is estimated to cause more than <a href="http://globocan.iarc.fr/old/FactSheets/cancers/breast-new.asp">half a million deaths globally</a> every year. Breast cancer remains the <a href="https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/cancer/cancer-compendium-information-and-trends-by-cancer-type/report-contents/breast-cancer-in-australia">second most common cause of death from cancer</a> among females in Australia.</p> <p><strong>Hope and hype</strong></p> <p>Cancer is complex and challenging to study, and news reporting on the disease easily lends itself to hype, contradiction and misinterpretation. Clearly communicating research findings are important for helping patients make informed decisions about treatment and modifying risk.</p> <p>Poor reporting may have serious consequences for public and scientific communities alike. Some of the reports and headlines on this trial have been a little misleading, feeding on an understandable fear. They could potentially encourage patients to incorrectly avoid or stop treatment - with potentially tragic consequences.</p> <p>False or unmet expectations can also seed disappointment and an eventual loss of trust in science. Another, more sinister, aspect to these headlines is the potential to fuel myths and conspiracy theories about the effectiveness of chemotherapy.</p> <p>One of the most exciting aspects of this trial is the emergence of robust, large-scale data supporting the use of “<a href="https://theconversation.com/its-2030-and-precision-medicine-has-changed-health-care-this-is-what-it-looks-like-90539">precision medicine</a>” - using genetic profiles to dictate treatment and predict outcomes in cancer. Trials like this are critical in balancing the significant hope and hype of precision medicine.</p> <p>This study supports sparing thousands of women from the sometimes nasty side-effects of chemotherapy, but we must be crystal clear that it applies to a very specific (and significant) subset of women. Patients should not make any changes to their treatment based off this study, and should always consult their doctors.</p> <p>And while celebrating this genuine advance, we should remember just how far we have to go in finding effective therapies for metastatic breast cancer, and other breast cancer subtypes for which treatment options are still limited.</p> <p><em>Written by Darren Saunders. Republished with the permission of <a href="https://theconversation.com/many-women-with-breast-cancer-may-not-need-chemo-but-beware-misleading-headlines-97686" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>The Conversation.</strong></span></a></em></p>

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Johnny Ruffo's inspirational act of kindness hours after gruelling chemotherapy

<p>Johnny Ruffo has marked his final round of chemotherapy in a very inspirational way.</p> <p>Just hours after his chemotherapy session, the former <em>Home and Away</em> star participated in a charity walk for children with Duchenne’s Muscular Dystrophy.</p> <p>The 29-year-old took part in the 150km ‘Walk to Save Our Sons’, which aims to raise awareness for the severe muscle condition that impacts one in 3,500 boys.</p> <p>Talking to <em>Today</em> before starting the walk, Ruffo brushed off his own struggles, focusing on those living with this genetic condition.</p> <p>"I'll pull through it… I'm blessed, in comparison," he said. "At the end of the day, these kids have it far worse than I do. [They] will be lucky to live to 25 or 30, whereas I'm 30 on Thursday."</p> <p>The Aussie actor and singer has already raised $21,000 towards finding a cure for the disease.</p> <p>"I'm lucky compared to these kids," he continued. "I would much rather give to them."</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media"> <div style="padding: 8px;"> <div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 62.5% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;"> <div style="background: url(data:image/png; base64,ivborw0kggoaaaansuheugaaacwaaaascamaaaapwqozaaaabgdbtueaalgpc/xhbqaaaafzukdcak7ohokaaaamuexurczmzpf399fx1+bm5mzy9amaaadisurbvdjlvzxbesmgces5/p8/t9furvcrmu73jwlzosgsiizurcjo/ad+eqjjb4hv8bft+idpqocx1wjosbfhh2xssxeiyn3uli/6mnree07uiwjev8ueowds88ly97kqytlijkktuybbruayvh5wohixmpi5we58ek028czwyuqdlkpg1bkb4nnm+veanfhqn1k4+gpt6ugqcvu2h2ovuif/gwufyy8owepdyzsa3avcqpvovvzzz2vtnn2wu8qzvjddeto90gsy9mvlqtgysy231mxry6i2ggqjrty0l8fxcxfcbbhwrsyyaaaaaelftksuqmcc); display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;"></div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bf14XE8g3FI/" target="_blank">A post shared by SaveOurSons DuchenneFoundation (@saveoursons)</a> on Mar 2, 2018 at 5:01pm PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>In August, Ruffo announced that he had been diagnosed with brain cancer.</p> <p>"On Sunday I went into hospital with a migraine," he told <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.nowtolove.com.au/tvweek" target="_blank"><em>TV WEEK</em></a></strong></span>. "I had to have emergency surgery to have a brain tumour removed. I am on the mend and feeling positive. Keep me in your thoughts."</p> <p>Ruffo shared his journey with Australia, sharing photos in his hospital bed and of the large scar running across his forehead.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media"> <div style="padding: 8px;"> <div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;"> <div style="background: url(data:image/png; base64,ivborw0kggoaaaansuheugaaacwaaaascamaaaapwqozaaaabgdbtueaalgpc/xhbqaaaafzukdcak7ohokaaaamuexurczmzpf399fx1+bm5mzy9amaaadisurbvdjlvzxbesmgces5/p8/t9furvcrmu73jwlzosgsiizurcjo/ad+eqjjb4hv8bft+idpqocx1wjosbfhh2xssxeiyn3uli/6mnree07uiwjev8ueowds88ly97kqytlijkktuybbruayvh5wohixmpi5we58ek028czwyuqdlkpg1bkb4nnm+veanfhqn1k4+gpt6ugqcvu2h2ovuif/gwufyy8owepdyzsa3avcqpvovvzzz2vtnn2wu8qzvjddeto90gsy9mvlqtgysy231mxry6i2ggqjrty0l8fxcxfcbbhwrsyyaaaaaelftksuqmcc); display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;"></div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BXl7r5-AH1S/" target="_blank">A post shared by Johnny Ruffo (@johnny_ruffo)</a> on Aug 9, 2017 at 5:11pm PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Ruffo first shot to fame after auditioning for X-Factor in 2011. He placed third in the competition with singer Reese Mastin coming out on top.</p> <p>In April 2012, he then went on to win the mirror ball in<em> Dancing with the Stars </em>and then made his acting debut on <em>Home and Away </em>in 2013 as Chris Harrington.</p> <p>His acting landed him a TV Week Logie nomination for Most Popular New Talent.</p> <p>Ruffo announced that he was leaving the show in 2016 and said, "I've loved my time in Summer Bay. There's a lot more coming up for Chris and I hope fans continue enjoying his time on screen."</p>

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Julia Louis-Dreyfus celebrates last day of chemo

<p><em><span>Veep</span></em><span> actress Julia Louis-Dreyfus is celebrating her last day of chemotherapy.</span></p> <p><span>To celebrate the end of her extremely tough season since first being diagnosed with breast cancer, her two sons have shared a special video they made to put a smile on her face.</span></p> <p><span>Charlie and Henry Hall made their mum a video of themselves lip-syncing to Michael Jackson’s song </span><em><span>Beat It</span></em><span>.</span></p> <p><span>"Mum's last chemo day, beat it, love Henry and Charlie," read a message at the beginning of the video.</span></p> <p><span>The 57-year-old TV star shared the video on her Instagram with the caption, “My beauty boys @henryhallmusic @charlie_hall made this for me today, my last day of chemotherapy."</span></p> <p><span>"Pretty swell, right?" she added. "Ain’t they sweet?”</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media"> <div style="padding: 8px;"> <div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;"> <div style="background: url(data:image/png; base64,ivborw0kggoaaaansuheugaaacwaaaascamaaaapwqozaaaabgdbtueaalgpc/xhbqaaaafzukdcak7ohokaaaamuexurczmzpf399fx1+bm5mzy9amaaadisurbvdjlvzxbesmgces5/p8/t9furvcrmu73jwlzosgsiizurcjo/ad+eqjjb4hv8bft+idpqocx1wjosbfhh2xssxeiyn3uli/6mnree07uiwjev8ueowds88ly97kqytlijkktuybbruayvh5wohixmpi5we58ek028czwyuqdlkpg1bkb4nnm+veanfhqn1k4+gpt6ugqcvu2h2ovuif/gwufyy8owepdyzsa3avcqpvovvzzz2vtnn2wu8qzvjddeto90gsy9mvlqtgysy231mxry6i2ggqjrty0l8fxcxfcbbhwrsyyaaaaaelftksuqmcc); display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;"></div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bd0nh3QH-Xm/" target="_blank">A post shared by Julia Louis-Dreyfus (@officialjld)</a> on Jan 11, 2018 at 12:18pm PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p style="text-align: center;"><span> </span></p> <p><span>Actress Reese Witherspoon shared the video writing, “This touched my heart <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialJLD" target="_blank">@OfficialJLD</a></strong></span><strong><a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialJLD" target="_blank"></a>. </strong></span><span>Sending this out to all the folks who are fighting cancer. Beat It!”</span></p> <p><span>In September last year, Julia announced that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer.</span></p> <p><span>Julia revealed that she found out the devastating news the day after winning an Emmy for her role on </span><em><span>Veep</span></em><span>.</span></p> <p><span>The actress has used her social media accounts to </span><a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/health/body/2017/10/julia-louis-dreyfus-shares-update-on-breast-cancer-battle/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">share her journey</span></strong></a><span> with fans and post the support from loved ones that she has received.</span></p>

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