Category: Cancer

Breast Cancer: Tips for Early Detection and Treatment
Interview conducted on World Boston’s Coffee Hour in the segment “Un Minuto de Salud”

In the segment A Minute of Health at the Boston World Coffee Hour, we were joined by Juan Villa Camacho, M.D. from the Universidad de los Andes in Colombia and a specialist in radiology in Boston, Massachusetts, and affiliated with the Massachusetts General Hospital.

We invite you to watch the clip of the interview where Dr. Villa Camacho brings extensive knowledge and experience in the field of breast cancer and enlightens us on early detection and the latest advances in the treatment of breast cancer.

What Are Some Basic Tips to Keep in Mind Regarding Breast Cancer?

JVC: The most important thing in terms of breast cancer is early detection.

And that’s why we have long recommended mammography screening for all women starting at age 40 and mammography screening on an annual basis.

What Are the Recommendations of Organizations Like the American College of Breast Cancer Specialists?

JVC: Based on all the information we’ve had from basically 50 years of mammography.

This is the approach for people who are at average risk for developing breast cancer.

But there are women who are at elevated risk, either because of family history or other factors. And for these people, early detection consists of mammography or imaging, such as breast MRI.

What Should a Woman With a Family History of Cancer Do?

JVC: In that case, the most important thing is to talk to the primary care physician to determine what the risk of developing breast cancer is.

Depending on the risk, they can start screening as early as age 30.

Why Is Early Detection of Breast Cancer so Important?

JVC: Because the treatments are less invasive. In the past many women had to undergo a mastectomy which is removing the breast completely.

With early detection, we can avoid that in many instances and early detection improves the prognosis of the disease.

When We Talk to a Number of People, You Begin to Realize How Many Lives This Kind of Cancer Has Affected in the United States

JVC:. Yes, the statistics are very clear. One in eight women is at risk of developing breast cancer. It’s a very, very important disease.

And Is There Any Information or Data to Say About the Latino Community, Is It More or Less Prone Than Average?

JVC: They are still at average risk.

Generally, there is some information that says that the disease may develop earlier and may be a little more severe.

But it can all be counterbalanced with early detection.

What Are the New Suggestions Regarding the Age to Go for Testing, the Guidelines Can Give a Little Bit of Confusing Information

JVC: The message I want to make very clear is that for all women the recommendation is to start at age 40.

For those who are average risk. If they have family history, talk to their physician to see if they need to start a little earlier.

But the average age at which women should have a mammogram is 40 years old.

What Is the Percentage of Men Getting Breast Cancer as Well?

JVC: It is rare, but it is possible. One percent of breast cancers occur in men.

I Know That Self-Examination Is Also Very Important For Women

JVC: Self-examination is very important; being aware of your body.

Know your body if you notice any differences in your breasts. The most important thing is to go to the doctor immediately.

Important Aspects to Highlight

Mammograms are a vital tool for detecting breast cancer in its early stages, even before symptoms occur.

This non-invasive procedure plays an important role in increasing the chances of successful treatment outcomes.

Remember, early detection saves lives, so schedule your mammogram today and encourage your loved ones to do the same.

The American College of Radiology (ACR) recommends regular mammograms for women as part of breast cancer screening.

Here are your general guidelines:
- Average risk: women at average risk should begin mammograms at age 40 and continue with annual screenings.
- High risk: such as those with a family history of breast cancer or genetic mutations, should consult their physicians to discuss personalized screening plans.
It is important to keep in mind that these guidelines may vary depending on individual risk factors.

For this reason, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.

Some Recommendations

Consult with a Health Care Professional:

Schedule an appointment with a health care professional who specializes in cancer risk assessment.

They can evaluate family history, assess individual risk factors and provide personalized recommendations.

Genetic Testing:

In some cases, genetic testing may be suggested to identify specific genetic mutations associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.

This may help determine appropriate screening strategies or preventive measures.

Increased Surveillance:

Depending on the level of risk, the health care professional may recommend more frequent mammograms, breast MRIs or other imaging tests.

This is with the goal of detecting possible abnormalities at an early stage.

Lifestyle Modifications:

The following can contribute to overall wellness and potentially reduce breast cancer risk:
- Adopt a healthy lifestyle,
- Exercising regularly,
- Maintaining a healthy weight,
- Limiting alcohol consumption,
- Avoiding smoking.
Each individual’s situation is unique and the guidance provided by healthcare professionals is tailored to the specific circumstances.

Early Detection of Breast Cancer Is Crucial for Several Reasons:

Better treatment options: allows for a wider range of treatment options, helps prevent the cancer from spreading to other parts of the body.

Early stage breast cancer is generally easier to treat and has higher survival rates.

Less invasive treatments: can be treated with less invasive interventions or targeted therapies, rather than more extensive surgery or aggressive treatments, helping to preserve breast tissue.

Breast Cancer Statistics and Impact on the Latino Community

Breast cancer statistics highlight the importance of early detection.

According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 1 in 8 women in the United States will develop invasive breast cancer in her lifetime.

This emphasizes the importance of proactive measures and regular screening for all women, regardless of perceived risk.

When considering the prevalence of breast cancer among different communities, it is essential to examine several factors, such as genetics and lifestyle.

Some studies have suggested that certain subgroups within the Latino community may have higher rates of late-stage breast cancer diagnosis, which may result in worse outcomes.

Factors contributing to this disparity include limited access to care, language barriers, cultural beliefs, and lower screening rates.

To address these disparities, it is crucial to promote awareness, provide culturally sensitive education, and improve access to care for all communities.

Self-Examination and Breast Cancer in Men

Performing regular self-exams is a fundamental practice for breast cancer detection.

Report any abnormalities to a healthcare professional immediately, as early detection increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery.

Risk factors for male breast cancer include a family history of the disease, hormonal imbalances, obesity, and exposure to radiation or estrogen-related medications.

Early detection through self-exams, mammograms and medical checkups is crucial for effective treatment and better outcomes.

Breast cancer is a major health problem affecting millions of women worldwide.

It is crucial to prioritize early detection and take preventive measures to ensure successful treatment outcomes.

Our sources: Cancer, Cáncer síntomas, American College of Radiology.

Disclaimer:
The information contained on the My Health Fair website should not be construed as professional advice or medical recommendations.

Readers should direct any questions regarding their personal health care to licensed physicians or other appropriate health care professionals.
10 June 2023
Cancer survivors: recognition of their strength and resilience

Celebrating cancer survivors is an important way to recognize the strength and resilience of those who have overcome the disease.

Surviving cancer can be a long and difficult journey, beginning with a diagnosis and continuing through treatment, recovery and beyond.

It is for this reason that those who have been through it deserve recognition and support.

The experience is different for everyone, but there are some common themes, raising awareness of the ongoing challenges survivors may face is a source of inspiration for those beginning the journey.

Receiving a diagnosis can be a difficult and overwhelming time, as news about cancer can be life-changing.

With treatment, cancer survivors can experience a variety of physical and emotional side effects including anxiety, depression and fear of recurrence.

Support from family, friends and healthcare professionals are critical during this time.

In the recovery process is monitoring the disease and assessing side effects.

Even some cancer survivors may also be referred to a rehabilitation program to help them regain strength and mobility, lifestyle changes, in order to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.

The experience of being a cancer survivor is complex and can be emotionally challenging.

Many cancer survivors report feeling a sense of gratitude for their second chance at life, but also acknowledge the constant uncertainty and fear of recurrence.

On April 6, we celebrate cancer survivors with Dana Farber Cancer Institute

A virtual celebration for local Cancer survivors, sharing their stories of faith, hope and strength.

The purpose of this celebration is:

Raising awareness about cancer, its treatments and the challenges faced by survivors:

Helping to dispel myths and misconceptions about the disease and promote a greater understanding of the disease.

Provide hope be a source of inspiration and hope for others currently battling cancer

When survivors share their stories of overcoming cancer, they can help encourage others to persevere and stay positive during their own cancer journey.

Build a sense of community among those who have gone through similar experiences

Sharing stories and connecting with other survivors can help people feel less alone and provide a source of support during and after cancer treatment.

For many cancer survivors, talking about their experiences can be a cathartic and healing process, helping them process their emotions and come to terms with what they have been through.

We invite you to participate in this celebration!

By sharing their stories, survivors regain a sense of self and identity after going through this process and at the same time create space for people who are facing a diagnosis or going through the disease.

For more information, visit the Dana Farber Cancer Institute’s table.

Our sources: https://www.dana-farber.org/, https://www.cancer.org/

3 April 2023
Inflammatory Breast Cancer: 6th Annual Forum for Patients and Families
Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a rare, aggressive form of breast cancer in which cancer cells block lymph vessels in the skin of the breast.

This causes the breast to look red or swollen, according to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute.

IBC is rare but very aggressive and accounts for 1% to 5% of all breast cancers diagnosed in the United States, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

A Program Dedicated to Treatment, Research, and Education

Dana Farber Cancer Institute has a program dedicated to the treatment, research and education of IBC.

This program is the only one of its kind in the Northeast.

It includes breast cancer surgeons, medical oncologists and radiation oncologists who have specific expertise in the treatment of IBC.

This is in order to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to each patient’s unique medical needs.

Risk factors for inflammatory breast cancer include:
- Being a woman: more likely to be diagnosed with IBC than men, but men can also develop it.
- Being younger than 60 years old: patients with IBC are diagnosed on average at a younger age compared to patients with other forms of breast cancer.
- Being a person of color: people of color are more at risk of developing inflammatory breast cancer than white people.
- Being overweight/obese: overweight or obese people have a higher risk of developing IBC, regardless of their menopausal status.
Inflammatory Breast Cancer Free Virtual Forum

On Saturday, April 1 at 10 am will be held the sixth annual forum for patients with inflammatory breast cancer.

This as part of their commitment to educating the community at large to patients, their friends and loved ones and healthcare professionals.

This educational forum consists of two separate events that will be held through Zoom, registration must be done separately for each event using these links:
- Welcome Session and Educational Sessions
- Session for patients, families and loved ones: IBC Social Work Group | Registration is limited for this session.
Educational sessions will be recorded and posted on the Inflammatory Breast Cancer Program website.

As part of the program there will be informative sessions on topics related to:
- IBC Surgery,
- Anxiety with an IBC diagnosis,
- Immunotherapy in the IBC setting,
- A question and answer session with speakers.
There will also be a roundtable discussion on clinical trials, patient advocacy; among other topics, associated with the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of the disease.

Sign Up, space is limited!

Our sources: https://www.dana-farber.org/inflammatory-breast-cancer-program/, https://www.cancer.gov/
31 March 2023
World Cancer Day: A Date to Remember
World Cancer Day is commemorated on February 4, a day to remember why the fight against this disease is important.

A day that aims to raise awareness about this disease and promote its prevention, detection and treatment.

Cancer is a disease that affects millions of people and can have serious physical and emotional consequences for those who suffer from it.

For this reason, it is essential that the scientific community, affected patients and society work together to find a cure and improve the quality of life of those who suffer from it.

More than one third of cancer cases can be prevented. Another third can be cured if detected early and treated appropriately.

It is an opportunity to reflect on the importance of preventing the disease and to join global efforts to combat it.

This includes education about cancer risk factors, promotion of healthy lifestyles and preventive testing to detect the disease in its early stages.

Currently, more than half (65%) of cancer deaths occur in less developed regions of the world.

Even in high-income countries, inequalities exist among low-income, indigenous, immigrant, refugee, and rural communities.

Equitable access to cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care saves lives.

By increasing public literacy and understanding of diseases like cancer, we can reduce fear, dismantle myths and misunderstandings, and change behavior and attitudes.

World Cancer Day: Advances in Research and New Treatments

As a world leader in cancer research discovery and innovation, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is committed to eliminating racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities in cancer prevention, outcomes, care, and survivorship.
- Increasing research on cancer disparities.
- Increasing minority representation in clinical trials.
- Integrating research findings into clinical care and public health.
Some of the cancer disparities research initiatives led by Dana Farber include:

Cancer Care Equity Program

This program places Dana-Farber at the forefront of efforts to reduce disparities in cancer outcomes for historically underserved groups locally in Boston.

The primary goal is to facilitate clinical access to the spectrum of preventive medicine, treatment, and clinical trials.

In addition to enhancing and expanding Dana-Farber’s educational and outreach programs.

World Cancer Day: Initiative to Eliminate Disparities

This initiative connects institutions to advance and meet the goal of reducing cancer disparities in cancer prevention, outcomes, care and survivorship.

Center for Cancer Equity and Engagement

This center works to ensure that the work and research of the Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center reduces the burden of cancer and inequity for all Massachusetts residents.

Visit Dana Farber’s table and learn more about its cancer prevention, research and treatment programs.

World Cancer Day is an opportunity to remember the importance of the fight against cancer.

It is also a good time to join global efforts to find a cure and improve the quality of life of those affected.

Sources: https://www.dana-farber.org/, https://www.cdc.gov/
7 February 2023
Cancer in young people under 50: a global pandemic?
Cancer in young people or adults under 50 years of age has become an important issue that draws the attention of the health sector.

Cancer in young people under 50 years of age

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that, in 2020, cancer was the leading cause of death in the world.

Technological advances and the aging of humanity are increasing the number of people diagnosed with cancer at any time of life and regardless of its origin.

Studies by the Brigham and Women’s Hospital warn that not only are cancer cases growing because there are more and more older people, but that the number of cancer cases in people under 50 years of age has been increasing for decades.

Between 2000 and 2012, there was a significant increase in cases of tumors of:
- Breast,
- Colon and rectum,
- Endometrium,
- esophagus,
- Extrahepatic biliary tract,
- Gallbladder,
- Head and neck,
- Kidney,
- Liver,
- Bone marrow,
- Pancreas,
- Prostate,
- Stomach,
- Thyroid gland.
With this evidence, several researchers are questioning whether early stage cancer is an emerging global pandemic.

The study also reinforces the importance of increasing awareness of this trend and, in the short term, reevaluating current diagnostic methods.

Lifestyle factors that increase cancer risk

There is evidence that increases in cancer in young people under 50 correlate with increasing lifestyle trends, including diet, environment, and lifestyle.

It is noted that such changes, which began in the mid-20th century, may have affected the incidence of early-onset cancer from the 1990s onwards, as their effects would have been slow to accumulate.

Critical factors are identified as including:
- Diet high in saturated fat, red meat, processed meat, sugar and ultra-processed foods, but low in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fiber.
- Lower rates of breastfeeding and increased consumption of formula milk.
- Increased alcohol consumption.
- Smoking.
- Reduced hours of sleep.
- Obesity and type 1 and 2 diabetes.
- Reproductive changes, including reduced age at menarche, reduced number of births, increased age at first and last birth, and increased use of oral contraceptives.
- Physical inactivity and sedentary lifestyle.
Should we move prevention to earlier ages?

With more records and control of the number of cases, we could think about establishing health policies and adjusting diagnostic variables.

For doctors and scientists dedicated to this scourge, prevention begins at birth.

In this case, it is essential to be vaccinated against cancer-causing microorganisms such as HPV and HBV and to reduce the risk factors inherent in the global lifestyle.

While cancer rates are unfortunately increasing among younger adults, overall, cancer mortality rates are declining.

At least in the United States, and revolutionary new treatments are helping people live much longer after diagnosis.

For more information in your language on everything you need to know about treatments and disease management, visit Dana-Farber’s table.

Disclaimer:
Information on the My Health Fair website should not be construed as professional advice or medical recommendations.

Readers should direct any questions regarding personal health care to licensed physicians or other appropriate health care professionals.

Our Sources: https://www.brighamandwomens.org/, https://www.cancer.org/, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/, https://www.infobae.com/.
20 October 2022
Dana Farber Commemorates National Mammography Day
Dana Farber joins the commemoration of National Mammography Day and offers great tips that you can apply at once.

At any age, it is essential to have a checkup and follow up on your health.

However, as we get older, concerns increase, visits to specialists, to the gynecologist and having exams such as mammography become something that should be frequent.

Dana Farber: Importance of Regular Mammograms for Health Screenings

Although mammograms do not prevent breast cancer, after they are performed they can save many lives.

Thanks to mammography, medical professionals will be able to detect this benign or malignant tumor as early as possible before it causes signs and symptoms.

Mammograms have been shown to play a key role in detecting and reducing the risk of dying from breast cancer, which, unfortunately, is becoming increasingly common.

Mammograms can be used for screening or diagnostic purposes:

Routine mammograms

To detect breast changes that could be cancerous in people who have no signs or symptoms.

The goal is to find cancer when it is small for less invasive treatment.

Diagnostic mammograms

Used to investigate suspicious breast changes, such as a new breast lump, pain, abnormal skin appearance, nipple thickening, or nipple discharge.

Also used to evaluate unexpected results of a routine mammogram.

How to prepare for your mammogram:
- Schedule an exam when you are less likely to have breast tenderness.
- Don’t wear deodorant before a mammogram: metal particles from powders and deodorants can show up on your mammogram and cause confusion.
Dana-Farber Mobile Mammography Van: committed to cancer diagnosis and prevention

The only mobile digital mammography program in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Provides screening mammograms and breast health education to women age 40 and older.

Equipped with the latest technology, Dana Farber’s Van serves women in communities around the greater Boston area.

It also provides a convenient means for everyone to access this essential cancer screening technology.

In conjunction with community organizations in and around Boston, the Dana-Farber Mammography Van strives to eliminate barriers by bringing high-quality breast cancer screenings to the communities most at risk.

The Digital Mammography Van is available primarily to serve priority populations of low-income, older adults, immigrants, and non-English speakers.

In this way, we break down cultural, linguistic, financial and logistical barriers to care, making mammograms more accessible to those who are least likely to obtain them.

The entire team on the van is bilingual and patients have access to interpreters at all times.

This is important, as approximately 40% of patients who used the van in 2020 noted that English was a barrier to communication.

Dana-Farber’s Mammography Van program was initially launched in April 2002 as a partnership between Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the City of Boston.

Since then, more than 50,000 women have received mammograms and other breast health services aboard Dana-Farber’s mobile screening unit.

Dana Farber Van Routes

The van runs three to four days a week throughout the year, serving all neighborhoods in Boston.

It also covers other towns, including Natick, Waltham, Quincy, and Brockton, Massachusetts.

During their appointment, patients can speak with a health educator about the importance of getting screened for breast cancer and steps they can take to reduce their risk of developing the disease.

Community meeting place

In addition to its core purpose of providing breast cancer education and screening, Dana-Farber’s Mamography Van serves as an entry point into the broader health care system.

It also provides an opportunity to connect women to primary care and apply for coverage through the MassHealth Connector.

The Dana-Farber Van joins forces and commemorates Mammography Day by informing and educating women to continually monitor their breast health and receive timely, quality follow-up services.

Visit Dana – Farber Cancer Institute’s table and learn about all breast cancer prevention and screening programs.

Our Sources: Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

Disclaimer:
Information on the My Health Fair website should not be construed as professional advice or medical recommendations.
Readers should direct any questions regarding personal health care to licensed physicians or other appropriate health professionals.
12 October 2022
Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October
Each October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an international health campaign led by world-renowned organizations.

These institutions work hard to raise awareness about the disease, educate and prevent it.

They also seek to raise funds for the study of the causes, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure of this disease.

During this awareness month, there are specific dates to raise awareness about the disease.
- October 9 is World Palliative and Sensitive Care Day.
- Oct. 13 is Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day.
- October 15 is National Mammography Day.
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States.

African American women have a higher mortality rate from this disease than white women.

In 2019, the latest year for which incidence data are available, 264,121 new cases of female breast cancer were reported in the United States, and 42 280 women died from it.

For every 100,000 women, 130 new cases of female breast cancer were reported and 19 women died from the cancer, according to U.S. Cancer Statistics.

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is a disease characterized by the growth and multiplication of malignant (cancerous) cells in breast tissue.

According to the American Cancer Society, it is the second most common form of cancer in American women.

Symptoms of breast cancer

The signs of this disease can be similar to those associated with other medical conditions.

See your doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- A lump or swelling in or near the breast, including under the arm,
- Change in the size or shape of the breast,
- Thickening of the breast tissue toward the top,
- Inverted nipple (nipple turned inward),
- Having discharge from a nipple, especially bloody nipple,
- Breast pain or tenderness,
- Dimpled or wrinkled breast skin,
- Scaly or reddened breast or nipple skin,
- Screening, diagnosis and staging.
Accurate and correct diagnosis is essential for proper treatment.

Unconditional Support from Dana Farber Cancer Institute

Dana-Farber Cancer Center has a team of experts working together to provide compassionate, comprehensive care for cancer patients.

The institute has a team of physicians and nurses who specialize in breast cancer care and rely on the latest discoveries to provide highly advanced patient care.

They are also leaders in breast reconstruction and are committed to providing personalized treatment options.

Dana-Farber Cancer Center has the full range of services of a world-class hospital and cancer research center.

In addition, it provides access to social workers, psychiatry, integrative therapies, pain specialists, nutritionists, and exercise physiologists.

It also has fertility specialists who have unique expertise in providing care to women who are battling cancer and have concerns about future fertility.

Visit the Dana – Farber Cancer Institute table and learn about all of the breast cancer screening and prevention programs.

Disclaimer:
Information on the My Health Fair website should not be construed as professional advice or medical recommendations.
Readers should direct any questions regarding personal health care to licensed physicians or other appropriate health care professionals.
6 October 2022
Skin cancer: how to protect ourselves from the sun
Spring and summer are exciting seasons and during this time of year sun exposure increases resulting in an increased risk of skin damage, including the development of skin cancer.

What causes skin cancer?

Most of them are caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, which come from the sun or artificial sources of exposure such as tanning beds and sunlamps.

These artificial sources of UV rays can damage skin cells.

The good news?

Most skin cancers are preventable.

According to the American Cancer Society, this is the most common cancer in the United States, with 5.4 million basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers and more than 76,000 cases of melanoma diagnosed each year.

Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, killing about 10,000 Americans each year, nearly 75% of all skin cancer deaths in the United States.

What is skin cancer?

It is the abnormal growth of skin cells as a result of overexposure to the sun and harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.

While the most frequent cases occur on the most exposed skin, well-covered areas of the body can also be affected.

All pigmentations, dark and light, are subject to skin cancer.

What common forms does skin cancer take?

It can take many forms, but the three most common are:
- Basal cell carcinoma,
- Squamous cell carcinoma,
- Melanoma.
Beginning in the basal cells in the outer layer of the skin, basal cell carcinomas can appear as a pearly or waxy bump, as well as a flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion.

Squamous cell carcinoma: this type forms in squamous cells.

Signs are often a firm, red nodule or a flat lesion with a scaly, crusty surface.

Melanoma: a small fraction of skin cancers, but also the most deadly. Symptoms of melanoma include: a large brown spot with smaller darker ones or a mole that changes color, size or bleeds.

Who is most at risk for skin cancer?

Anyone can get this disease, but the risk is higher for those who:
- Experience heavy UV exposure.
- Have lighter skin.
- Are in a family history of skin cancer.
- Have prevalent moles.
- Experience numerous severe sunburns in the past.
- Have a weakened immune system.
- Live in sunny or high-altitude climates.
Practice sun safety

It is important to protect yourself from UV rays year-round, not just during the summer.

In the continental United States, UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. during daylight saving time (9 a.m. to 3 p.m. standard time).

Recommendations for protection
- Use sunscreen, at least sun protection factor (SPF) 30, year-round.
- Apply sunscreen every two hours or more frequently if you are swimming or sweating.
- Stay in the shade.
- Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs.
- Get a hat to cover your face, head, ears and neck.
- Wear sunglasses that cover the sides of your face and block both UVA and UVB rays.
- Use sun protective clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of 50+, which blocks 98% of the sun’s rays. Wide-brimmed hats and sun-protective clothing that covers the arms and legs are helpful in protecting the skin from harmful UV rays. Sunscreen does not block all UV rays that cause skin cancer.
- Check your skin. If you notice differences, talk to your health care team.
Enjoy as the warm days arrive, but always keep skin cancer prevention in mind.

Any change in your natural skin color, such as tanning, burning or freckling, is dangerous to your skin and increases your risk of skin cancer.

For this reason, it is important to contact your health care team if you have concerns about skin abnormalities.

This disease is treatable when detected in its early stages.

Visit our table https://outhous3.miferiadesalud.com/en/fair/#dana-desktop-eng and see the tour of our Sun Protection van, where you will find more information to prevent skin cancer.

Sources: https://www.cdc.gov/, https://www.dana-farber.org, https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/

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9 June 2022
Human Papillomavirus: Everything You Need to Know
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the United States.

According to the CDC there are currently more than 42 million Americans infected with some form of HPV and about 13 million Americans, including teenagers, are infected each year.

Some of the figures provided by the National Cancer Institute and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are:
- Public ignorance about the human papillomavirus is high.
- It has been shown that there are high levels of HPV infection among women, with the highest levels among young women.
- A recent study among college students indicated that an average of 14% become infected with genital HPV each year. Current infection levels in men of the same age are very similar.
- According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, 70% of American adults over the age of 18 have never heard of HPV.
- In addition, 89% have never discussed the issue with their healthcare provider.
- At least 75% of the population of reproductive age has been exposed to sexually transmitted HPV.
- An estimated 15% of Americans ages 15 to 49 are infected.
- Risk factors for infection include multiple lifelong sexual partners, a history of infection with other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), early age at first sexual intercourse, a weakened immune system, and the presence of HIV.
Who is affected by the Human Papillomavirus?

The human papillomavirus is usually transmitted by direct contact during sexual intercourse with someone who has the infection.

Despite their potential severity, the health consequences of HPV (and other STIs) are usually hidden and can occur years after infection. Therefore, many people do not know that they are infected or that they can transmit the virus to other people.

According to (CDC), in its most recent study published in December 2021, 46,143 new cases of cancers associated with the human papillomavirus (HPV) are detected annually, including 25,719 among women and 20,424 among men.

Cervical cancer is the most common HPV-associated cancer among women, and oropharyngeal cancers (cancers of the back of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils) are the most common among men.

Other shocking statistics related to these diseases are:
- Vietnamese women have the highest incidence of invasive cervical cancer in the United States.
- Cervical cancer, which is associated with HPV infection, is now the ninth most common cancer among women in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society.
- In general, women have a higher incidence than men except at the oropharynx site.
- White men and women have the highest incidence rates and Asian/Pacific Islander men and women have the lowest incidence rates compared to other racial groups.
- Within the group of Hispanics, men are less likely to contract this type of disease: 6.9%, while women have a percentage just lower than the groups of whites and non-Hispanics but similar to those of the African American racial group.
Prevent cancer with the human papillomavirus vaccine

Many public health experts believe that a more targeted research and public health effort would have a greater impact.

This response involves encouraging greater sex education in schools and by health professionals regarding HPV and other STIs.

Also promote more regular Pap tests and use HPV DNA tests.

Scientists and health organizations worldwide measure the HPV vaccine with its safety and efficacy.

Recommending that all children receive two doses of HPV vaccine between 9 and 12 years of age.

Evidence on vaccine efficacy shows that infections with HPV, cervical precancers , have decreased by 88% among adolescent girls and 81% among young adult women.

The percentage of cervical precancers caused by HPV types has decreased by 40% since the vaccine is being used in the United States.

It is estimated that the HPV vaccine can prevent the development of more than 33,000 cases of these cancers.

Preventing cancer is better than treating it

Getting the HPV vaccine for your child now is better than treating an HPV cancer later in life.

Take advantage of any visit to the doctor so that the child receives the recommended doses, in addition to preventing this and other diseases by performing the annual sports medical and physical examinations.

The HPV vaccine provides safe, effective, and long-lasting protection.

With more than 135 million doses distributed in the United States, the HPV vaccine has a safety record backed by more than 15 years of monitoring and research.

Where can I get more information?
- Ask your health care provider.
- Call your local or state health department.
- Learn more in https://www.cancer.org/
- Visit the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website for vaccine package inserts and additional information on www.fda.gov/vaccines-blood-biologics/vaccines.
Our Sources: https://www.cdc.gov/, https://www.prb.org/, https://www.cancer.org/
22 March 2022