Breast Cancer Prevention Strategies

Direct Link for Alcohol Consumption in Women to Breast Cancer

2011-05-02T07:19:00.000-07:00

Back in 2009 a study was released that showed even low levels of alcohol consumption for women carried increased risks for developing breast cancer. Despite the importance of the topic, It seemed to sink without so much as a murmur.

In Australia, alcohol is a familiar part of almost every aspect of social life, and sadly, statistics reflect the increased use of alcohol, especially by young women.

Yesterday the Australian Cancer Council released a position statement on the use of alcohol and it's direct link to developing a range of cancers. It's a stark change of policy, and reflects a position that many in the natural health field have held for years.

The report debunks the theory that moderate drinking may also help to reduce heart disease, and errs on the side of abstinence as the best option. It will be interesting to see how the liquor industry responds to this report !

Younger women, blurring the lines between feminism and sheer stupidity, are increasingly drinking their male counterparts under the table, in the mistaken belief that it's almost a badge of honour. TV serials such as Sex in The City glamorise the consumption of alcohol, even further, and cocktails, shots, and schnapps and are now standard fare on an evening out for young groups of women.

What needs to be urgently highlighted is why alcohol affects women quite differently to men. It's obvious that women get drunk quicker, and it's not because they have less body mass. It's more to do with their higher ratio of fat to water, and how diluted alcohol is when it hits the bloodstream. They also have less of an enzyme that helps break down alcohol. New research would indicate that heavy liquor takes a far greater toll on women's bodies more quickly, and as adults, they can develop liver disease 10 to 15 years earlier than men, even though consuming only a fraction of what men do.

Society is paying a huge price for the surge in the binge drinking mentality that now permeates much of the youth of the developed world, and the insane concept that getting 'wasted' equates to a great night out !

Young women are playing a deadly game of Russian roulette with their health and vitality and especially their fertility, by embracing the culture of alcohol consumption, often starting in their early teens.

In my clinic I am increasingly seeing young women in their early to mid twenties, seeking help for a wide range of health issues, related to weight gain, hormonal irregularities, breast lumps, extreme period pain, skin problems, headaches, backaches, mood swings, depression, adrenal burnout and insulin resistance.

The common denominator is often regular alcohol consumption, with frequent episodes of binge drinking.

It should come as NO surprise that the incidence of breast cancer is increasing in younger women, and I believe we are as yet only seeing the tip of the iceberg, in terms of what is likely to come. Women cannot continue to abuse their bodies to such an extent, without paying the piper at some point down the track.

It's time to speak up and start teaching our younger generations, the whole story of what price must be paid by a society that accepts and embraces a culture of alcohol abuse, as being par for the course.

In Good Health
Patricia

New Study Finds Food Packaging Significant Source of BPA Exposure

2011-03-30T04:12:00.000-07:00

A joint US study by the Breast Cancer Fund and Silent Spring Foundation about to be published in EHP, a peer reviewed journal of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, has established definite links to elevated BPA levels, from packaged foods.

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical compound found in some plastic products such as hard plastic baby bottles, water bottles, hard plastic microwavable cookware, some plastic storage bags and containers and in the linings of aluminum cans.

The study aimed to establish the leading cause of BPA exposure, and the article discusses the outcomes, and strategies for preventative measures to reduce potential toxicity.

The reality is that our environment is now a 'pea soup' of chemicals, and whilst there are some who continue to deny the effects of BPA accumulation in body fat, many laboratory studies have linked it to the probable development of breast cancer, and other serious health issues. To read the full report click here .

One of the main trends I see in food preparation today, is the widespread use of microwave ovens, and the accompanying plastic containers and plastic wrap to cover food. A simple change you can make immediately, would be to switch to glass dishes instead of plastic, if you can't survive without the one minute reheat. Pyrex is a great substitute as well, and they usually have covering lids.

Next time you reach for that canned tuna, baked beans, spaghetti, beetroot, or soup mix, remember this article, and think about how you might change your shopping habits to a 'fresh is best' approach.

Yours in Good Health
Patricia

Breast Cancer : Have We Lost Our Way ?

2011-03-12T21:01:00.000-08:00

I stumbled across an interesting article out of Germany today, and having read it from top to bottom, just had to share it here. It was written some years ago, but the message remains as pertinent as ever.

It's hard hitting, controversial and has the courage to say many things that I believe people are thinking but not saying out loud, for multiple political reasons. Cancer is an incredibly emotive word, and many who have had a brush with it, will agree I'm sure, that the pressure from mainstream medicine to toe the party line, at times, can be immense.

CHOICE : in the treatment of breast cancer, is almost a dirty word, and anyone proposing to abstain from the conventional route, quickly runs the risk of being ridiculed and becoming a pariah, in the eyes of the mainstream medical establishment. The politics of fear are a powerful deterrant, and not for the faint hearted.

Whilst I respect the medical profession and all the associated modalities that work with cancer treatment, I also believe it's important to look at the entire treatment spectrum available, and I urge you to read this article with a thoughtful and open mind, and share it with those you feel might benefit. Click here for the full article. If you have any further questions feel free to drop me an email at totalhealthoptions@ bigpond.com

Yours in Good Health
Patricia

Breast Inflammation Key to Cancer Growth

2011-03-01T23:32:00.000-08:00

In late December 2010, the magazine Cancer Research reported a story on new research just released about a study done at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, that offers some interesting validation to the benefit of addressing early inflammation in the breast, and keeping it under control, as a strategy to prevent breast cancer.

The study was funded by support from the National Institutes of Health, the Dr. Ralph and Marian C. Falk Medical Research Trust, and a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Health.
Researchers from the Nigata University of Pharmacy and Applied Life Sciences in Japan, the National Cancer Institute, the University of Western Australia, and the Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center at Georgetown University Medical School all contributed to the study.

Click here to read the full article. This is REALLY exciting news !

As part of any consultation I do with a client, this has always been something I place emphasis on. It's important to address any form of early inflammation in the body, and explore strategies of how best to control it. Thermal Imaging allows us to clearly visualise any changes in breast tissue, related to inflammation, MANY YEARS, ahead of potential trouble. As such, it is an extremely valuable tool in maintaining good breast health.

Have you considered trying Thermal Imaging as a screening option? Contact me on info@thermalscans.com.au for further information.

Jamie Oliver speaks on Preventative Health for our Children

2010-12-05T20:15:00.000-08:00

If you have never heard of the TED talks, this might be the start of a real love affair for you, in having the opportunity to hear a range of people talk about pressing subjects, close to their hearts.

Renowned chef, Jamie Oliver speaks about the desperate need for us to reclaim the basic life skills of cooking, for our children, if we want to see them live their full potential life span.

It's a riveting 20 minute, from the heart, presentation, and I highly recommend you take the time to listen. As it unfolds, you will come to appreciate the connection between the loss of family time and the rise of obesity, in the Western world, and the accompanying horrendous roll call of chronic diseases.

Click here to listen.

Food Myths Finally Exposed

2010-07-01T04:30:00.000-07:00

Wow it's July ! Been a bit of a break since my last post and lots happening in my world but I'll get to that later!

Very encouraging today to see the article in the SMH about the high sugar content in 'low fat' foods. It's an issue that I've been talking about for quite some years now, and as always mainstream media picks it up and suddenly it's 'news' !! Oh well, at least it's getting airplay :-) It's time people learned about what is really the greatest addictive substance on the planet far outweighting, nicotine, narcotic substances and alcohol, in terms of broad mainstream uptake.

This site has a comprehensive overview of what sugar does to the body and mind, and in light of the ever increasing issues with mental health, that our youth appear to be experiencing, one can only wonder if there are other, less well exposed issues that are contributing to the problem.

And in terms of breast cancer and diabetes prevention, this article by Jon Barron, is quite informative.

It's a huge topic, and one whose time has come, and if you'd like further information, don't hesitate to give me a call at the Clinic 02 6655 9400 or drop me an email at info@totalhealthoptions.com.au

As far as new developments, the Clinic will be moving across the hall to larger rooms next week, and there's a new exciting device that I've just become the proud owner of. Start training on it, end of next week, so watch this space for an update of what's happening!

In Good Health,
Patricia

Kiss of Death

2010-05-26T15:44:00.000-07:00

It's the stuff of dreams, every girl wants that perfect pout. Imagine knowingly painting your lips every day with a glistening paint that's toxic and every time you lick your lips, swallow a beverage or eat something, not to mention kiss your loved one, it's leaving a trail of destruction.

Might sound a bit dramatic, but that's the reality of what's happening every single day for women who wear lipstick!

This article in today's SMH highlights the problem, and raises the issue of poor manufacturing standards. Who would believe that a product they so trustingly use contains lead ! It's a problem that most women continue to be completely oblivious to, and over time, quite possibly, can lead to a lethal outcome. Toxins accumulate in fatty tissue, stored there by the body, to protect vital organs, but when there is a need for energy production, these compounds get released.

The Townsend Newsletter produced an insightful article in 2007 exploring the potential link between heavy metals and breast cancer, and it doesn't take too much to connect the dots.

Think carefully the next time you apply that thick glossy colour to your lips, about what's really going into your body. There are companies now leading the way in better manufacturing, who have an ethical approach to this dilemma, and it pays to be informed. I'm looking into this further and will write about what I discover in the next week or two.

In the meantime, consider giving the lippie a miss !

In Good Health
Patricia

The Pill : Fifty Years Young

2010-05-11T02:13:00.000-07:00

Today marks the fiftieth anniversary of the oral contraceptive pill, more popularly kown simply as the Pill.

An exerpt from Pharma in Focus records that " It was on 11 May 1960 that Searle Pharmaceutical Corporation introduced the first oral contraceptive Enovid (norethynodrel and an estrodial called mestranol) to the US market. Nine months later on 1 February 1961, Australia was the first country in Asia Pacific to launch the oral contraceptive pill. Known as Anovlar, it was marketed by Schering Australia, now part of Bayer Schering Pharma, and only accessible to married women.

In 1964, Anovlar was offered in a calendar pack for the first time, following a regimen still in use today: 21 days of hormones followed by a seven day break to allow for menstruation. This 21/7 regimen was introduced to help make it easier for women to keep track of their Pill. By 1967, over 12.5 million women worldwide were on the Pill.

Now, about 100 million women worldwide use combination hormonal contraception."

Whilst there is no question, the Pill brought immense change to women's lives, like most things in life, there's no such thing as a free lunch.

Debate has raged for many years as to whether the Pill might increase the risk of developing breast cancer. Clinical research would seem to indicate that genetically 'at risk' women, with the BRCA1 gene may have up to 11 times higher risk, however the consensus has been that within 10 years of ceasing to take the Pill, all women are on a level playing field of risk.

Common sense would suggest that the less chemical substances generally, we put in our bodies over time, the better the odds of remaining healthy.

If you would like further information on this topic, and strategies for detoxing your system from prolonged contraceptive use, call Patricia on 02 66559400.

In Good Health
Patricia

Closer Examination of the 'Latest' Vitamin Cancer Scare

2010-04-18T16:49:00.000-07:00

Media outlets around the world have had a field day reporting on the release of a study, funded by the Swedish Cancer Foundation and the Swedish Research Council for Infrastructure. The study concluded that women who took multivitamins regularly, had a 19% higher risk of developing breast cancer, than non - users.

What fails to be mentioned is the framework of the study, which both the Complementary Healthcare Council (CHC) and Blackmores, raised as having questionable parameters, this past week.

Dr Wendy Morrow, executive director of the CHC, said it had "some concerns over limitations to the study", pointing out that there had been a lack of evaluation of bioactivity and the use of a self-administered questionaire.

In layman terms this means some key factors were overlooked, in terms of evaluation of the ingredients of the vitamins used in the study, the brands used, and the fact that throughout the study, data collected about dietary supplement use was solely based on individual feedback, which may have been skewed. No real control mechanism was in place to ensure correct recording of information.

Blackmores also pointed out that the evidence was inconclusive, and in fact clashed with results from other studies, citing a large study from Harvard University, over six years, which found "that multivitamin use was NOT related to overall risk of breast cancer and that multivitamin supplements may in fact, REDUCE the risk of breast cancer in some groups of women."

Such conflicting press coverage only serves to confuse and confound the general public, which makes one wonder about the true purpose of reporting results from a study that appears to have not been done particularly well. Frankly, I think I'd rather err on the side of the decision of an independent researcher, such as Harvard University, than one funded by a Cancer Foundation.

It pays to dig a little deeper at times, when you read such sensational headlines.

In Good Health
Patricia

Slow Chemical Death by Rubber Duck

2010-04-16T08:10:00.000-07:00

I was delighted to see an article in the Weekend Edition of the Sydney Morning Herald, about a new book called 'Slow Death by Rubber Duck' , drawing attention to the ever present problems of toxic chemicals in our environment.

Natural health practitioners have been attempting to make this point for many years now, but as always, once the message finally starts filtering through to the mainstream media, it suddenly becomes the flavour of the month.

No doubt it will create a stir in some circles, as people start asking the hard questions. I strongly believe the accumulation of toxic chemicals in fatty tissue, may be one of the potential pre-cursors to developing breast cancer.

I recommend you make the time to read this article, and get the book and read it. I have a copy in my clinic and I'm happy to loan it. If you'd like further information on strategies for how to deal with this issue of toxic chemical accumulation, contact me on totalhealthoptions@bigpond.com.

In Good Health
Patricia

Early Exposure to 3 Classes of Common Chemicals Bad for Young Girls

2010-04-08T00:40:00.000-07:00

ALL MOTHERS SHOULD READ THIS & PASS IT ON !
A study just published by the online journal Environmental Health Perspectives, highlights some disturbing trends for young girls, that are linked to increasing peer pressure to start using cosmetics, shampoos, conditioners, beauty products, fragrances and lotions, at a far earlier age than ever before.
The evidence is mounting that some of the ingredients of these products have the potential to interfere with developmental growth, and disrupt hormonal balance. Right around the world, stories abound of young girls developing breasts and coming into puberty, earlier and earlier, and I believe that parents should be paying far more attention to this issue, and be aware of the potential dangers of what their young daughters may be exposed to.

One of the real risks is the danger of developing breast cancer at a far earlier age, down the line.

Having said that, it also occurs to me as I write this, that mothers of young boys should also be aware of this issue, as they often start using a range of personal hygiene products, long before they require any. My personal pet hate was when my own young teenage son started using a highly perfumed spray deodorant, convinced his peer group would ostracize him, if he didn't! The smell would linger for hours in the bathroom, long after he'd departed the house ! It was overpowering, in a sickly sweet way and highly irritating to the nostrils!

The power of media driven commercialism to brainwash our young, into believing these products are a perfectly natural part of daily life is indeed scary.

Sadly these days, the price of modern living, with all it's so called benefits, really means that the price of freedom, is to remain ever vigilant.

In Good Health
Patricia

Vitamin D : A Hidden Factor ?

2010-04-03T22:43:00.000-07:00

Everywhere I turn this past month, I've been confronted with reports pouring in from all around the world, about the benefits of Vitamin D. Even Oprah got on the band wagon! Seems it's the absolute flavour of the month, and whilst it's always good to take any 'new discovery' slowly, the evidence would certainly appear compelling.

An article out of Germany goes so far as to suggest a saving of 37.5 billion euros on the annual health bill, if correct levels of Vitamin D were maintained by the population. Increasing recommended daily intake would go a long way to reducing a myriad of health conditions connected to low levels of Vitamin D. Seems pretty simple really, so one can only wonder why the powers that be, have held the levels so low for so long ?

A really interesting article from the Science Daily in the US, as far back as 2007, comments that almost half of all breast cancers, and one third of colo-rectal cancers, diagnosed, may be prevented, by taking 2000 international units of Vitamin D3 a day, or getting 10 - 15 minutes of sunshine.

Interesting that it's taken this long to filter down, to the mainstream press!

If you'd like to know more about this topic, or have any questions, please feel free to write to me at info@thermalscans.com.au or visit my website.

Your in Good Health
Patricia

Unecessary Radiation Risks from 'Routine' Scans ?

2010-03-29T07:52:00.000-07:00

Seems there's growing disquiet in the US about the vastly increased use of powerful CT scan technology, for a range of procedures, some that previously were done manually.

They're increasingly being used to check for bowel cancer and look at gastric ulcers, as well as map blood flow to the brain.

Research suggests that this trend has increased the average lifetime dose of diagnostic radiation by a factor of seven, which is approximately equivalent to the radiation received from 400 chest X-rays.

The New York Times has a story about this situation, and in fact been following this trend for some time and earlier this year, published a series of articles related to excessive radiation harm.

I found it quite astounding to read that there are an 'estimated 70 million CT scans performed' in the US every year. In the early '80's it was around 3 million, but the real kicker is that researchers estimate there could be as many as 14,000 deaths a year now, from radiation-induced cancers.

Add in mammograms to the mix, and women are really faced with some sobering choices these days.

Obviously we have a much smaller population here in Australia, but it's a statistic that certainly gives reason to think twice about the wisdom of having a mammogram, for basic screening purposes, unless you absolutely have to! The more low dose ionising radiation a woman is exposed to, the greater the risk of possibly developing breast cancer as a result of it.

Having said that, it's still an important issue to be able to monitor breast health, and digital infrared thermal imaging ( DITI) definitely provides that option in a painless and non-invasive way, with the added bonus of NO radiation!

If you'd like further information about this technology, visit my site, and feel free to contact me with any questions you might have.

In Good Health
Patricia

Broken Sick-Care System Seems to Miss The Point

2010-03-23T06:46:00.000-07:00

This past week I've made the effort to travel to Sydney, following the speaking trail of a UK health researcher by the name of Phillip Day. I'd read his books, heard anecdotes, but never seen him in person. His mantra : Look Great, Feel Better, Worry Less, Live Longer.

I have to say he crystalised some basic philosophical viewpoints for me, apart from being an absolutely riveting and informative presenter! His message is both urgent and important. The health of industrialised nations is going down the gurgler, and mainstream medicine appears to not really be all that concerned!

Phillip Day has been sounding the alarm for over 25 years now, and has generated a long list of books, CD's, DVD's and information resources to spread the word in a grass roots fashion. He's not afraid to talk about the difficult and painful issues related to cancer, and he's angry at the way scientific data that's been around for well over 60 years, is manipulated, mis-represented and in many cases, actively suppressed by government, medicine and big Pharma.

One of his books "Cancer: Why We're Still Dying To Know The Truth" packs a real wallop. It's an overview that exposes the ongoing medicalcancer, and outlines what you can do about the disease YOURSELF!

He writes that science has known for 100 years that cancer is a healing process, that has not terminated upon completion of its task, rather than a disease per se.. This book details the amazing track record of nutrition and its role within the simple protocol of Vitamin B17 metabolic therapy, a science which has been researched to the highest levels of biochemistry, used by leading doctors around the world today to control and eliminate cancers of all kinds. Yet why do we hear nothing of it in mainstream media? He asks the difficult questions, and sets about answering them with well researched, independent, verified information.

If you want to learn from the medical experts themselves, about the simple facts of natural treatments; if nutritional therapy works so well with cancer, why doesn't everybody know about it?; why diet is so important; why chemotherapy and radiotherapy cancer treatments are not really working; and uncover why more people are making a living from cancer than are dying from it, then I suggest you do yourself a favour and buy this book and read it immediately.

It's packed with testimonials from people who have decided to take control over their illness and are now cancer-free, and best of all, Phillip Day is incredibly generous and giving of his time.

He freely gives out his email and home telephone numbers and connects with people all around the world to support them in their journey from disease and ill-health to wellness.

How many oncologists do you know that would be willing to do that ?

He has already responded to two of my emails in the last 3 days, about treatment protocols for some of my clients, despite being in the middle of a demanding road trip Down Under.

With all the current debate swirling around Canberra,this week, regarding the provision of health care here in Australia, surely it's the perfect time to once again raise the issue of including preventative natural health care as an underpinning of the medical model.

Without question the current prevailing paradigm appears to be focused on an illness model, as opposed to a wellness model.While ever providing health care is not viewed in a holistic context, but rather takes a compartmentalised approach, change will be excrutiatingly slow, and possibly too late for many.

If you would like further information regarding Phillip Day, visit his website here. Feel free to contact me if you would like support or to discuss any health protocols.

In Good Health
Patricia

Vitamin D Takes Centre Stage

2010-03-19T08:47:00.000-07:00

The more I use this social networking medium the greater my appreciation for the power of connectivity. I was thrilled to see a comment from the web developer of the author, Dr Servan - Schreiber, after I posted a link to this book last week.

He sent me a new link for the very latest cutting edge information about Vitamin D as well as contact information for Dr. Servan-Schreiber's official Facebook page.

Most recently, Dr. Servan-Schreiber and 40 renowned physicians & scientists presented new groundbreaking research regarding Vitamin D, while launching an international appeal and calling for new standard recommendations.

In Good Health
Patricia

Further Update On Gardasil Issues

2010-03-19T07:44:00.001-07:00

I was delighted to note that several of the women of the group that presented to the FDA earlier this week, on vaccine reactions, actually picked up on my blog ( no doubt thanks to Google! ) and wrote some comments! Gotta love the power of connecting individuals hey!

They sent me a link for additional supporting documents to the presentation, which can be viewed here.

I'd really love to be able to get them all together to do a webinar linkup and talk about this further, as I really believe there is a need for women to understand what is involved, to make an informed decision about such a controversial topic.

In Good Health
Patricia

Could the Gardasil Vaccine be The 'Perfect Storm' ?

2010-03-15T17:00:00.000-07:00

The Internet is humming this morning with breaking news of a report presented to the FDA on March 12th, 2010 in relation to safety issues around the HPV vaccines Gardasil and Cervarix.

Six concerned women from around the world have united to bring global attention to the fact that these vaccines are directly responsible for a range of serious adverse reactions in young women, some resulting in death.

It's encouraging that the FDA is actually taking public consultation on this matter, as it would appear that currently there is a very poor system in place to record these reactions, and much has been overlooked.

For the full report click here.

In light of the research emerging from these women's efforts, from my perspective, of breast cancer prevention strategies, one can only wonder what level of damage has already been inflicted to a group of young, future mothers. Globally, stories are emerging, of young women experiencing an alarming,un-reported until now, range of afflictions, and I suspect we'll be dealing with the fall-out for many years to come.

There's also a very useful site set up by a group of mothers that expands even further on this issue. If you have daughters you are considering giving this vaccine; using it yourself; or know of anyone considering using it, I urge you to read this new information and pass it on.

I believe we are only seeing the tip of what is being touted as a global health disaster, in lag.

In Good Health
Patricia

Prevent and Control Cancer with the Anti-Cancer Way of Life

2010-02-11T06:37:00.000-08:00

"If we don't tell people that the science shows how they can protect themselves from disease with their own choices and what they can decide to take into their own hands, we are giving them false hopelessness.

Cancer lies dormant in all of us. Like all living organisms, our bodies are making defective cells all the time. That's how tumors are born. But our bodies are also equipped with a number of mechanisms which detect and keep such cells in check. In the West one person in four will die of cancer--but three in four will not: THEIR DEFENSE MECHANISMS WILL HOLD OUT."

-Dr. David Servan-Schreiber, Psychiatry Professor, Univ. of Pittsburgh-

Came across this in one of my never-ending trawling sessions on the Net, looking for useful information to pass along. This short video is also worth watching ( only 7 minutes ) on You Tube, of Dr Servan-Schreiber talking about his own recovery from brain cancer.

In Good Health

Patricia

Early Detection of Oestrogen Dominance a Key Factor

2010-02-07T18:00:00.000-08:00

The message today is a somewhat sobering one, but never the less, imperative I believe. It's a bit longer than usual, but worth reading. I urge you to share this information with friends and family and loved ones, as it's an important & timely issue.

Studies around the world continue to clearly point to excess levels of oestrogen in the body, as being a prime underlying factor in the ever increasing incidence of breast cancer and a number of factors all contribute to this problem.

If you can relate to the stressful existence many women are living these days, in this brave new world of the independent 21st century, then this blog has a message for YOU!

The constant juggling of trying to balance work, home life, relationships and children leaves little time for self-care. 'Having it all', is taking a huge toll!

Stress triggers primal chemical reactions in the body, originally designed to respond to 'fight or flight' situations. Adrenaline, released by the adrenal glands, supports our heart to beat faster, our blood pressure to rise, and muscles to tense up in readiness. Breathing quickens and blood sugar levels rise for immediate access to instant energy. It puts the body in a state of alert.

The adrenals also release another hormone called cortisol to assist this natural physiological reaction to stress. This hormone also increases heart rate, blood sugar levels, blood pressure and constricts the arteries. Cortisol is longer acting in the body than adrenaline.

This inbuilt prehistoric response to stress was never designed to occur over long periods of time. Cortisol has an extremely negative effect on the body when too much is produced throughout the day in response to stress.

The problem is, in our modern lives, factors such as job pressures and emotional ups and downs sometimes cause us to live in a state of stress for lengthy periods.

What I believe is being overlooked, is the long term effect of chronic stress, which can often manifest in many different ways - affecting sleep, creating anxiety or depression and leaving people with deep fatigue.

Chronic stress leads to adrenal exhaustion which often leads to poor blood sugar control, cravings and binge eating, as you try to pick up your energy levels. Weight gain often accompanies the picture, and it becomes a vicious cycle.

As hormones become more unbalanced, the thyroid becomes increasingly sluggish, exacerbating further weight gain and poor liver function. Infertility is increasingly becoming an issue for women of child bearing age. Conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids and polycystic ovarian syndrome are now major health care concerns, affecting millions of women worldwide. Symptoms may include heavy periods, clotting, breakthrough bleeding, period pain and PMS.

They are having an extremely debilitating effect on physical and emotional health and quality of life for increasing numbers of women, young and old. I see many women every week, in my clinic, who fit this category.

Another contributing factor why women today are affected by more oestrogen, is simply because they are having more periods per lifetime. The average age of a woman’s first period is becoming progressively earlier, the average age of menopause is getting later, and women are having fewer children. Not to mention the effects of long term contraceptive use, and my absolute pet hate, the latest rage pill, which stops periods altogether!

Oestrogen excess does not occur because the ovaries make too much oestrogen; on the contrary, there is usually a problem with availability and clearance of oestrogen. A body that is adrenally exhausted cannot properly regulate the excretion of oestrogen.

Our hormone system is a delicate and complex system of glands and hormones which control development, growth, reproduction and behaviour. When the balance is disrupted by oestrogen excess, many hormonal problems can occur.

Increased incidences of infertility problems, miscarriage, breast and uterine cancer have all been linked to oestrogen dominance.

Combine this with environmental factors, now an everyday reality of life, and you have a recipe for a global health crisis, that in truth is unfolding around us right NOW!

Environmental oestrogens are everywhere – in our food and water, the air we breathe, the substances we touch, our homes, our cars and even in medicines we are given for our ‘health’. It has been said we are ‘swimming in a sea of oestrogen’. This is bad news for both women and men. Oestrogen dominance is also believed to play a part in prostate cancer as well.

These environmental oestrogens come in the form of petrochemical derivatives such as herbicides and pesticides which have been sprayed on our crops, used for the plastic cups and bottles we drink from, the plastics we wrap and store our food in, the cosmetic products we apply to our bodies, and even the oestrogens that come through in drinking water recycled from our rivers.

Oestrogens from the oral contraceptive pill and hormone replacement therapy are excreted in a woman's urine. They can end up in our water supply, as hormones are not removed by standard water purification treatments. Consider the implication of just that one issue ! We may filter our drinking water, but how many of us then shower or bathe every day, or sprinkle our vege gardens in unfiltered water !

Environmental oestrogens work in a variety of ways by mimicking, blocking and triggering hormonal activity. Bottom line is they throw our bodies out of balance. They are stored in body fat and have long lives which can magnify their individual effects by 100-1,000 times.

DES, a synthetic oestrogen given to mothers in pregnancy, from the late 40's to the 70's, was found in the next generation of daughters, to lead to a range of reproductive problems, infertility, immune system weakness and vaginal and cervical cancer. Studies three generations later are still continuing to find genetic links to health damage.

Every day environmental exposure to these substances affects the level and action of all hormones in our body, and we need to be aware of this NOW!

Unfortunately, much of the medical profession and the general public remain largely unaware of the effects these dangerous chemicals are exerting on our lives and the lives of animals.

So, after all that depressing information, what can we do ?

As always, being able to make an informed decision, is useful. Being aware of the BIG PICTURE is important, but being able to actually ascertain if metabolic changes are occurring in your body is even better.

Digital infrared thermography ( DITI ) is a new, non-invasive imaging procedure that utilizes infrared heat-sensing technology. It can be used to scan many different parts of the body.

Because researchers are acknowledging the importance of prevention and early detection as keys to long term breast health, breast thermography is fast becoming an important tool to add to health care regimens, around the world. Abnormalities in function of breast tissue can be detected long before a physical problem may manifest.

To perform breast thermography, a special camera equipped with heat-sensing, or infrared, technology takes pictures of the breasts and the images are sent to a computer. Multiple images are taken from several different angles in order to provide a three-dimensional result. These images are digitally processed by sophisticated equipment to create a detailed thermal map.

Because each individual has a unique ‘thermal fingerprint,’ the images help the reporting doctor to quickly establish the normal thermal state of your breasts. The images reveal whether the two breasts have the same temperature patterns and whether any areas differ from one breast to the other. Abnormalities on the infrared images, including changes in temperature, blood flow, hormone levels, or metabolic activity, may indicate current or potential for tumor growth. The necessary diagnostic steps are then taken to determine the nature of the abnormalities.

It's estimated that during a mammogram, the estimated compression weight on the breast, which can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful, can range from several pounds to over forty pounds. In addition, research now indicates that low-dose ionising radiation collects in the breast tissue during mammograms. Unlike mammograms, thermography does not require compression of the breasts nor does the infrared scanning process involve radiation or contact with the body.

Mammograms can only detect tumors that have already developed. In comparison, breast thermography provides images of physiological changes in the breasts that may cause future tumour growth. One such abnormal thermal pattern, of oestrogen dominance, can be a 'red flag' precursor to possibly developing breast cancer. If estrogen dominance is found, hormonal levels can be balanced using natural means, and early intervention protocols implemented.

Breast thermography provides important, relevant, and necessary information about your health without exposure to radiation. This test, which compliments clinical examination and mammography ( if required ), is a valuable addition to your health care regimen. Prevention and early detection are the keys to long term breast and whole body health. By providing essential information early, breast thermography may save your life.

For further information about what preventative steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones in an ever increasingly toxic world, contact Patricia, on 61 2 6655 9400 or email info@thermalscans.com.au or visit Thermal Scans.

In Good Health

Patricia

Plastics Components Affects Immune System

2009-12-15T04:37:00.000-08:00

Research just released from France backs what natural therapists have been saying for quite some time in regard to toxic plastics components.

The National Institute of Agronomic Research in Toulouse, through both animal and human studies, has been able to demonstrate that even low doses of the chemical called Bisphenol A, or BPA, which is used in plastic containers and drink cans, can adversely affect the normal functioning of intestines.

They identified issues of reduced permeability of the intestines and lowered immune response to digestive inflammation. Click here for the full story.

If you would like further information on how best to remove toxic substances from your body, visit www.thermalscans.com.au or call Patricia on 02 6655 9400.

In Good Health

Patricia

The Killers Within : How Our Homes are Making Us Sick

2009-12-12T21:27:00.000-08:00

It's so encouraging to finally see the mainstream press raising public awareness about a problem that most natural health practitioner's have been banging on about for the past 20 years!

The Sydney Morning Herald raised the issue of toxic homes in today's paper.

One thing I have come to appreciate about being in this line of work, is that if you are patient enough, eventually you won't be seen to be a quack or a weirdo, and in fact just simply, ahead of the pack. The sad part is that vindication usually means a lot of people have been needlessly mis-informed along the way, or worse still, information has been suppressed for commercial reasons.

If you would like more information about simple ways to protect you and your loved ones from environmental toxins, visit Thermal Scans or call Patricia on 61 2 6655 9400.

In Good Health

Patricia

Women Receive "Good News" on Mammography Screening But Is It Really Good News?

2009-11-24T14:05:00.000-08:00

Press Release

24th November 2009 Press Release : For immediate release from the American College of Clinical Thermology.

Women of all ages received good news with the recent revision of the govern

ment recommendations for screening mammography. The US Department of Health and Human Services released their findings and recommendations that screening mammography should now be started at age 50 and performed bi-annually. Up until now, screening was recommended on an annual basis at age 40; this new recommendation has created renewed controversy as doctors have concerns about reducing the number of mammograms that would be clinically justified and indicated. It takes years for most cancers to develop to the stage that they can be detected with mammogram or ultrasound (dense enough for location and biopsy) so Breast Thermography or Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging (DITI) is ideally placed as an alternative screening tool to identify changes over time in the 'early' development stages, before there is more advanced pathology that can be detected with other tests. If changes for the better are to be made, then the recent recommendations of the Preventative Services Task Force will establish the foundation of a more affective screening program which should integrate other types of safe testing. Of the various testing options Breast Thermography or Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging (DITI) offers the most promise for screening the younger age group women.
To understand the arguments and issues involved with the new recommendations, we need to understand the difference between ‘screening mammography’ and ‘diagnostic mammography’:

‘Screening’ mammography has been performed annually on healthy women from the ages of 40 to 70 and is aimed at identifying suspicious findings, which justify further investigation. ‘Diagnostic’ mammography is performed on patients who have one or more risk factors, clinical symptoms, or most commonly a palpable lump. There is little argument about mammography’s role as the ‘gold standard’ for
evaluating suspicious symptoms but the question was, can we still justify subjecting women without symptoms to ‘screening’ mammography ? The answer was NO.

The federal department of health and human services task force says that “the modest benefit of screening mammograms must be weighed against the harms... which are nearly cut in half when mammograms are performed every other year but the benefits remain the same”. It needs to be pointed out that the recommendations of the task force are not intended for women at increased risk for breast cancer who should continue to be referred for diagnostic mammography by their doctors when appropriate, and on a case by case basis. It is interesting to note that The United States is currently the only country that routinely screens women below age 50 and extends its screening practice by taking two or more mammograms per breast annually in women over age 50. This contrasts with the more restrained European practice of a single view every two to three years. The evidence concludes that while there is a justifiable role for mammography to play in a breast cancer screening program that role is very different from the one currently in place.

For over 20 years Breast Thermography is being used increasingly by women throughout the US, and it has been rapidly gaining acceptance by doctors as an additional tool in the early diagnosis of breast disease. FDA registered since 1984, Thermography is an adjunctive diagnostic test being offered by hundreds of clinics in all states. A list of certified thermography clinics can be found at the The American College of Clinical Thermology website. Thermography is 100% safe, has no radiation, does not touch the breast, and only takes a couple of minutes. A positive or suspicious thermal study will indicate medical necessity for a mammogram, ultrasound or other tests. The thermal findings will increase the sensitivity and specificity of most other tests by targeting an area of the breast showing dysfunction and providing decision making information in women that would not have otherwise been tested.

Early detection is aimed at prevention and if early changes are detected then we have an opportunity to intervene and change the outcome. The earlier an abnormality is detected the better the treatment options will be, resulting in a better outcome. There are no contraindications for DITI, it is totally non-invasive, no radiation of any type, and no contact with the body so it can ‘do no harm’. DITI is positioned as the ideal screening test for women of all ages but particularly for the 30 to 50 age group. The best possible plan is to use every appropriate test adjunctively to get the highest detection rates without generating additional or unnecessary invasive testing. It would be unfortunate for a patient to forgo a necessary mammogram that was justified, and any decision should be made between the patient and her doctors based on individual history, symptoms and test results.

The principle of informed consent in medicine is ignored if women are not informed of the evidence relating to any risks of a test and if women more readily consent to annual mammograms because they have been given ‘misinformation’ this is as bad as obtaining consent by deliberately blocking valid information. Women are entitled to know the full range of responsible opinion about the benefits, the risks, and the many uncertainties of mammography.

The government task force are to be applauded for presenting the evidence for women and their doctors to be able to make better informed decisions about breast screening.

As reported, the scientific and medical evidence indicates that:

No ‘screening’ mammography is justified for women under the age of 50.
A baseline screening mammogram may be justified at age 50 and bi-annually thereafter.
Accountability and responsibility should be considered in regard to all radiation
exposure and the accumulative biological effects.
Reducing ionizing radiation exposure from all other sources whenever possible should
be practiced.
Up-to-Date and accurate information must be given to patients for informed consent.
Other non invasive tests should be promoted as part of a breast screening program.
Thermography, Ultrasound and MRI should be further explored, adapted and integrated.

For further information about available services for non-invasive screening, visit Thermal Scans

In Good Health
Patricia

In Reversal, U.S. Guidelines Urge Mammograms at 50, Not 40

2009-11-16T22:45:00.000-08:00

Confusion reins supreme in the US this week!

The new screening guidelines, issued on Monday by the Preventive Services Task Force of the Department of Health and Human Services, recommend against routine screening mammography in women 40 to 49. They would scale back screening for women 50 to 74, to every other year from annually.

The recommendations question the usefulness of mammography for women 75 and older. And they counsel against teaching women to perform breast self-exams and question the usefulness of clinical breast exams.

Read the article from the New York Times here, keeping in mind that for some time now, it has been a well documented fact that mammograms are not an ideal medium for scanning pre-menopausal breast tissue. Yet at no stage of proceedings have authorities suggested to women that there are other options available to them, such as digital infrared thermal imaging. A radiation free, painless non-invasive option that is being taken up by more and more women across the world, as they become aware of its existence.

Have a read of the article and make up your own mind about what is really going on here.

In good health

Patricia

Off To Florida

2009-09-24T01:38:00.000-07:00

Wow, can't believe it's been several months since my last post! So much happening!

Leaving Monday 28th for the US, for the annual American College of Clinical Thermography conference. People from all around the world will be attending, to hear about the very latest developments in this emerging technology. It will be so exciting to finally meet some of my international colleagues and also the doctors from EMI that read the reports, and the team from Meditherm. Watch this space!

October is just around the corner, and that means International Breast Cancer month is right on the doorstep. Starting to place ads for the clinic and scheduled for several speaking engagements as soon as I get back.

Attended a wonderful fund raising black tie ball last weekend in Sydney, at the Four Seasons Hotel. What a great evening! Serenaded by Jimmy Barnes and split my sides laughing at Vince Sorrenti, who is just the funniest man alive! The work being done by the Nelune Foundation to support people to cope with cancer, with dignity, is simply humbling. If you want to donate in a positive manner to a cancer group, this is one where almost every cent goes DIRECTLY to the people who need it most. Check it out. So refreshing to see such a different approach than the usual one of raising funds for research, and never knowing where your money ended up.

In good health
Patricia

Life's Delicate Balance

2009-07-15T21:41:00.000-07:00

Reading a great book at present called Life's Delicate Balance written in 2000 by Dr Janette Sherman.

The more I get into it, the more I'm convinced this is a 'must read' for every young woman on the planet!

She explores the underlying connections to the breast cancer epidemic we are now witnessing globally, and suggests the following

chemical carcinogens
ionization radiation
endocrine disruptors
genetic interactions

as potential causes of breast cancer, but the thing that's really impacted me is that despite this wonderful book being written 9 years ago, nothing much has really changed!

It's definitely time to change the focus of our attention, where breast cancer is concerned. For too long the money has flowed to the research side of the equation, looking for a cure. Imagine instead, focusing on prevention!

Imagine if young woman were given the opportunity to learn more about what they are exposing their bodies to when they so casually pop the Pill; how they expose themselves to a cocktail of chemicals with their perfumes, hair products, sunscreens and makeup; what happens at the genetic level when they embark on binge drinking & crash diets; and how their daily environmental landscape can potentially be a toxic waste dump!

As a society we have ignored the warning signs, despite the first alerts coming as far back as 1962, when Rachael Carson wrote Silent Spring. I was only 7 years old at that time, and yet the alarm was being sounded then. Now I'm 53, with a 25 yr old daughter, and as I look around my world, I can only conclude that in fact some things are worse than ever!

We women need to take back control of our health, and that of our daughters and grand-daughters and unborn future generations, if this madness called cancer, is to be stopped dead in it's tracks.

Turning the tide is a huge challenge, and calls for us as individuals to become educated, responsible, accountable and a force to be reckoned with !! We need to convince the powers that be, that change is required NOW. Not next month or next year, but NOW ! We need to work together, and share this information at every level of society.

To that end, my intention is to create a new web site in coming weeks, designed to start the ball rolling. If you have any thoughts, ideas, contributions or experiences you'd like to share, I'd be delighted to hear from you. The focus will be on prevention and choices.

Drop me an email at info@thermalscans.com.au or call me on 61 2 66559400

In good health
Patricia

$108 Billion since late 1940's in Research Grants But Are We Really Making Any Headway ?

2009-06-28T20:55:00.000-07:00

A questioning piece in the New York Times today, throws light on the issues that research scientists face now, when lateral ideas just don't have a box to tick for much needed research funds. Seems many now play it 'safe' just to keep in the business, rather than adding anything new to the mix and finding genuine breathroughs. It raises some serious questions about the real value of cancer research currently being done in the US, and probably elsewhere in the world.

Click here to read >

Personally I stopped actively contributing to fundraisers for research, quite some years ago, as I felt the whole movement had lost direction. Whilst I still see great value in the wonderful tireless work people do for raising funds to DIRECTLY support people dealing with cancer, and contribute selectively, I feel the 'Think Pink' movement has somewhat hijacked cancer research, and it seems there are others who feel the same.

Think Before You Pink is worth a visit to see what some people are now doing, and I just love the questions listed ! I'm seriously thinking of getting an Australian version of this site underway as I really believe there needs to be far greater education and resources focused on the preventative aspects of potential contributing factors to breast cancer, such as :

reducing environmental toxins in our food & water supply & understanding the implications of the myriad of chemical / heavy metal load we are exposed to daily
stopping synthetic HRT use
impact of long term use of the Pill
understanding the toll of extreme dieting & obesity on the body
tobacco & alcohol use
stress
lack of exercise
shift work / poor sleep quality

If your interested in knowing more about some of the above mentioned things, click here for further information.

In Good Health
Patricia

Big Thanks To All

2009-05-31T17:35:00.000-07:00

Just a quick message to inform you that we held an extremely successful Big Morning Tea last Thursday morning, at Emporium Bellingen, and are delighted to announce that we raised just over $800 for the Cancer Council ! Well above our stated goal of $400 so a BIG THANK YOU to all who attended, as well as Hearthfire Bakeries, for supplying all the delicious goodies.

Toni Urquhart did a great job sharing recent insights on her journey with breast cancer, and it was wonderful to see so many young women, present and interested, to know more about early intervention strategies.

I gave a quick presentation about the benefits of Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging as an alternative screening method, and the importance of early detection of inflammatory changes in breast tissue, and what steps can be taken to reduce this.

DITI is a painless, non invasive, RADIATION free technology, that is now available for women of ALL ages. To learn more about this service, visit www.thermalscans.com.au

In Good Health
Patricia

Emporium Bellingen Celebrates Biggest Morning Tea

2009-05-17T23:23:00.000-07:00

For a morning 'cuppa' with a difference, pencil Thursday 28th May, 10am, into your diary!

Local businesswoman Ann Rosewood will be hosting a 'Big Morning Tea' at the Emporium Bellingen , in conjunction with Hearthfire Bakery, who'll be supplying tea, coffee and refreshments.

I'll be there to talk about early breast cancer detection and the latest technology using Digital Thermal Infrared Imaging (DITI), and my good friend Toni Urquhart, will be sharing her recent personal encounters & insights with cancer. Come, listen & learn !

Australia's Biggest Morning Tea turns 16 this year and it's the largest, most successful event of its kind in Australia. All monies raised enable the Cancer Council to continue to fund vital research, and offer support programs, and over $40 million has been raised since it first began in 1994.

Bellingen Emporium's goal is to raise at least $400 towards the event, and in the process, increase awareness of breast cancer prevention strategies, for the local women of the Bellingen region.

An added incentive to participate will be an exclusive chance provided by the Cancer Council, to win a trip to anywhere in Australia up to the value of $5000, for a donation of $10 or more, as well as other great door prizes!

Donate Online

If you can't make it in person, you can still help the team at Emporium Bellingen reach their target, by donating online. Click here to go to their Biggest Morning Tea page. Transactions are totally secure, and a receipt will be automatically generated. Donations greater than $10 are also tax deductible.

In Good Health
Patricia

Biggest Morning Tea coming to a Place Near You !

2009-05-05T00:02:00.000-07:00

May is the month for drinking tea!

I'm delighted to report that I'll be participating in planning an event loosly based around the Cancer Council's Biggest Morning Tea, which is an annual, national fund raiser in Australia. www.biggestmorningtea.com.au

Some of my local business community people are now sending their staff to our Clinic to have thermal breast screening, as an initiative, to raise awareness of the need for early detection of changes in breast tissue.

Our intention is to hold a Morning Tea event, with a difference, to raise funds AND highlight the modality of Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging ( DITI ), as an additional screening tool for detecting early changes in breast tissue. Check back soon for dates and times, and come along and have a cuppa!

DITI is a painless, non invasive, RADIATION free technology, that is now available for women of ALL ages. To learn more about this service, visit www.thermalscans.com.au

In Good Health
Patricia

Following The Cancer Trail

2009-04-30T08:03:00.000-07:00

Attended a seminar earlier this week in Sydney, presented by a biochemist and a naturopath. It was an absolutely informative and in depth look at the latest natural products available to support people suffering from cancer, and especially the often horrendous side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
The information was extremely well researched, drawing on mainstream journals and peer reviewed material, and highly relevant for the times. Some excellent, well documented case histories on breast cancer and prostate cancer were discussed, and the appropriate supporting therapies outlined.

I attended because as a practitioner in this arena, in terms of legal restrictions, it can be very frustrating when clients ask us for help. There is a great deal of misinformation within mainstream medicine, about the value of complementary therapies for people with cancer, so it was very re-assuring to hear such a professional presentation.

As part of the new direction I have taken with thermal imaging, in my practise, I'm now seeing a lot more cancer cases, and being exposed to the full gamut of mainstream treatment that people experience, and it's distressing to see what they have to endure, in terms of side effects, to put it mildly!

I recently had the opportunity to experience first hand the journey one of my clients has experienced this past 2 months, as she asked me to be her support person. I attended every single appointment with her, from the moment the results of scans and biopsies were delivered by her GP, through surgery, drain removal, post op infection, and oncology consults, to her decision this week, NOT to go down the chemotherapy & radiation route.

It's been educational to sit and listen to the varied opinions on the use of natural therapies; the wide disparity of benefits supposedly to be gained from choosing the chemotherapy route; and most amazing has been the pressure she has endured from the medical team to commit to their options. I can only imagine what a lonely and confusing road it must be for those who have no support person, let alone someone willing and able to demystify the endless jargon and explain things more clearly. Little wonder so many capitulate and immediately embark on the treatment, without time to thoroughly research ALL their options. The politics of fear are well and truly at work.

So, the presentation was a breath of fresh air, and a timely reminder that there IS a place for integrative therapies to support people suffering from cancer. The facts are out there, the research supports it, and now it's time to spread the word !

Also, as part of my ongoing research, I stumbled onto a 4 part video presentation on You Tube, of a father giving a presentation to a US Cancer Congress, in 2007, about how he dealt with a terminal neuroblastoma diagnosis of his 3 yr old son. It's an extremely powerful demonstration of what can be achieved, within the system, utilising complementary therapies, and well worth spending 15 minutes or so, to watch the 4 clips. The family are from the UK. The law prevents parents from refusing chemotherapy for a child in the UK, citing abuse, and can forcibly remove the child, and administer the treatment. Between a rock and a hard place, I say ! Click here to watch http://www.bobbysfund.org/videos.htm

I personally found Bobby's story extremely inspiring, because it's very easy to be discouraged to delve into this arena, by the political constraints we all work under, but it's such an important field of work. As a society we are not winning the cancer game at all, so perhaps it's time to develop some new rules :-)

The Regulatory Climate

To appreciate the challenges we face, as complementary practitioners, are you aware that under current legislation, passed in August 2008, by the NSW Govt, designed to give greater powers to the Health Complaints Tribunal to take disciplinary action against 'unregistered health practitioners ' http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/news/2008/20080104_00.html , it is now an offence to make a claim to diagnose, treat or offer ANY advice regarding cancer treatment ?

These regulations cover naturopaths, herbalists, homeopaths, massage therapists, Reiki therapists, counsellors and psychotherapists. Interestingly enough, many of these disciplines now require a university degree to qualify, yet remain classified as 'unregistered' by the Government of the day !

Whilst I totally support the need to weed out unethical, untrained and opportunistic people, who prey on individuals, at a time of great vulnerability, I fear the legislation runs the risk of 'throwing the baby out with the bathwater', as it now currently stands.

What really needs to be happening here, is for the Government to create a regulatory model, within the existing health care matrix, that would allow us to be recognised for the contributions we make. There is much scope to increase the level of training and have the disciplines far more integrated.

The reality however, is that we are an 'invisible' but integral part of the health care model here in Australia, but our hands and our lips are tied, and we are forced to operate in a somewhat farcical situation of using semantics, afraid to even utter the dreaded 'C' word, let alone be seen to offer support. It's a climate that smacks of suppression of information, and intimidation, for being seen to be outside the accepted mainstream medical paradigms. Our advertising, both electronic, written and verbal is subject to strict monitoring by bodies completely outside the complementary health realm, which potentially makes for a biased verdict, and we are often subject to regular smear campaigns within the media. Despite this, it's estimated 1 in 3 consultations every day is with a complementary health practitioner, so something must be working!

It really is time to change the situation, but people will need to make them selves heard, at the highest levels. YOU need to demand the right to have free access to every option available for the treatment of cancer. Change must come from within.

If you think this blog might be of interest to a friend or loved one, please pass the link along!

To share your thoughts on this topic, or gather further information re the material covered, or request a copy of supporting mainstream research documents on the benefits of antioxidants during chemotherapy, please email me at info@thermalscans.com.au or call 02 6655 9400

In Good Health
Patricia

What Are We REALLY Eating?

2009-03-25T18:57:00.000-07:00

As much as I prefer to operate from a space of optimism at all times, as a health practitioner, I also have the less enviable task, of being the bearer of information that not everyone wants to hear.

With so much gloom & doom currently permeating the news, it can sometimes seem as if there is nothing we can do as individuals, but in this case I believe the voice of the consumer needs to be heard. This is an issue I have felt strongly about for many years, and believe has been largely ignored by government agencies around the world.

With so much focus on the need for cleaning up and protecting our fragile global environment, I was disturbed to read an article this morning, with the headline :

Range of Pharmaceuticals & Chemicals Found in Fish

about the fact that residues of pharmaceutical medicines, and chemicals used in personal health care products, are being found in fish. Whilst the story focused on areas within the US, I have no doubt the problem exists both globally, and right here on our own doorstep.

It highlighted the problem of what happens when people flush unused medication down the toilet, or dump it in the rubbish bin, as well as the issue of un-metabolised residues of pharmaceuticals that people take and then excrete. Out of sight, out of mind! Waste water treatment plants are not managing to prevent a wide array of substances from entering our ground water,and ultimately, our food chain. Just think of how many people are on the Pill for starters!

On the list of suspected contributors to the escalating epidemic of breast cancer, is environmental contamination of food and water, so this situation has the potential to affect us all in some way !

One can only wonder what is REALLY happening within our food chain worldwide, when you start to consider the scope of the problem.

The challenge for each one of us lies in becoming more informed about where our food is sourced from; more responsible about the way we dispose of medicines; more aware of the connectedness of our society to our environment and most of all, be willing to stand up and ask the hard questions of our governing bodies. By our silence we condone nothing changing.

Click here to read the article http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2009/03/25-10

Send me your thoughts and ideas about how we might raise awareness of this very real problem at totalhealthoptions@bigpond.com.au

In Good Health
Patricia

Early Act - Lets Follow Suit!

2009-03-23T17:35:00.000-07:00

In the US yesterday, breast cancer survivor, and congresswoman Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz introduced a bill, being called the Early Act, that would direct the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to develop a national campaign to boost awareness among women younger than 40, including encouraging early detection.

She called for greater awareness of breast cancer among younger women, and in revealing her own battle with breast cancer she said, " It is my hope that by sharing my story, we will pass the (bill) and further reduce the death rate of young women diagnosed with breast cancer." "We have to ensure that every young woman can rely on more than just luck."

Younger Women Need Greater Awareness

Here in Australia, we have an appalling lack of knowledge and awareness in younger women, of the numerous factors potentially associated with developing breast cancer, and an even greater lack of knowledge that there are ways to monitor ongoing breast health, other than just through the use of mammograms.

Within the medical fraternity it's well known that mammograms are not particularly effective on women under 40, due to density of breast tissue. What is quite amazing is that no one seems to appreciate the value of Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging ( DITI ) as a tool for early detection of changes in breast tissue, in younger women, and the message needs to get out!

Women need to start spreading the word, at a grassroots level, about the value of DITI, and the bonus that it's non-invasive, painless and RADIATION free!

With more women now entering politics at the highest levels of office, here in Australia, surely it's time to take this message to them, and see if we can also effect change, and create our very own 'Early Act' and get DITI on the map!

For further information visit www.thermalscans.com.au

In Good Health
Patricia

Early Detection Equals Early Intervention

2009-03-18T05:48:00.000-07:00

Breast cancer doesn't discriminate we've discovered.

This past few years have been a grim one statistically speaking, for young, high profile women, the world over. Here in Australia in 2006 we came to terms with the loss of Belinda Emmett, wife of television personality Rove Mcmannus. An eight year fight that started with breast cancer at 21, saw her taken by age 32, with secondary camcers. A year earlier, the world was shocked to learn that 'our very own Kylie Minnogue' had been diagnosed with breast cancer, at the young age of 36. Then in mid 2008 we all watched the sad story of a young family torn apart by breast cancer, as Jane McGrath, the lovely wife of cricketer Glenn McGrath, also lost her long battle against the disease, at age 42.

Very early detection is a key component for survival, and one of the single greatest challenges for young women. The medical profession openly admits mammograms are not really useful for young women under 40 because their breast tissue is too dense, and misdiagnosis can be all too common.

A white coat is no guarantee they are right!

Seems both Kylie Minogue and US comedienne Ellen DeGeneres, experienced a misdiagnosis of breast cancer, and when Kylie was being interviewed on DeGeneres’ TV talk show, she took the opportunity to point out that just because ” someone is in a white coat and using big medical instruments ”, there is no guarantee they are right!

She agreed 100% with Senator Hillary Clinton, who was also being interviewed, on the absolute importance of the early detection and treatment of breast cancer.

Like Kylie, this is a subject close to my heart too, because in my Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging clinic, where I offer alternative breast screening, I get to see first hand, the results of both early and late Thermal Imaging.

One of my clients came to me with a diagnosis of invasive breast cancer already in place, and was scheduled for surgery of the affected breast. She had decided she wanted to use Thermal Imaging for future monitoring, and so we scanned her breasts for an initial baseline image, for future comparisons.

Imagine my dismay when her results came back, indicating that in fact the cancer in the affected breast was so advanced, it was no longer even ‘thermally active’, however the ‘clear’ breast was showing serious early activity of inflammatory breast disease. The reporting Doctor made the observation that this was probably what her other breast would have looked like 8 -10 years previously, in the early stages of it’s cancer development. He was adamant her GP needed to be made aware of this fact.

The tragic thing here is that her mammogram of the previous week, had not given ANY indication of this new developing pre cancerous state, and in all reality probably won’t for another 6-8 years, by which time it will have likely developed into a full blown tumour.

The irony of this situation, is that the chemo and radiation she is scheduled to have post mastectomy, may well treat this new emerging problem, in the ‘clear breast’, but if she had been able to catch the first breast all those years ago, she may have been able to head this insidious disease off at the pass, with far less invasive measures than she she is now having to experience.

Moral of the story ? Pay attention to what Kylie was saying, and listen to your body and your own intuition, and investigate ALL the options for early diagnosis.

Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging is an early warning tool

you can’t afford
NOT
to know about!

The medical profession openly admits mammograms are not really useful for young women under 40 because their breast tissue is too dense. Yet they fail to inform people of the alternatives now available, that are painless, non invasive and best of all, radiation free!

Visit www.thermalscans.com.au for further information.

In Good Health

Patricia