iamlupus

13/10/2024

Breast Cancer May Spread by Recruiting Nearby Sensory Nerves

The body is packed with sensory nerves that pass sensations like touch, pain, and temperature to the nervous system. Such nerves are tangled through tissues in every organ and many tumors. And according to a new study, breast tumors have an unusual way of exploiting these nerves to help them spread to other parts of the body.

Previous research has found that direct contact between cancer cells and certain kinds of nerve cells can fuel tumor growth. Scientists have even observed some types of cancer cells crawling along nerves to spread (metastasize), explained the study’s lead investigator, Veena Padmanaban, Ph.D., a postdoctoral researcher at Rockefeller University.

Although the research team’s work implicated sensory nerves as a critical contributor to breast cancer metastasis, they found that breast cancer cells use them in an entirely different way. The team identified a complex process that starts with blood vessels within tumors releasing a molecule that draws nerves closer to them. The biological changes initiated by this close proximity eventually leads to the activation of metastasis-fueling genes in the cancer cells.

Fueling metastasis from a distance
In these experiments, although the sensory nerves appeared to be fueling tumor growth and spread, the two cell types weren’t physically touching, the researchers found. So how were the nerves exerting their effect?

By analyzing and testing substances secreted by both the nerves and the breast cancer cells, the researchers found that a tiny protein called substance P released by sensory nerves substantially boosted growth and spread of breast cancer cells growing in laboratory dishes. Large amounts of substance P were found in samples of human breast tumors that had spread to the lymph nodes.

In mice with breast tumors, blocking substance P greatly reduced tumor growth and metastasis.

Reference

Blood vessels within tumors release a molecule that draws sensory nerves closer, the study showed. This close proximity turns on metastasis-driving genes.

02/10/2024

🌍 What is Cultural Healthcare and How Does It Affect You? 🌍

Cultural healthcare refers to the way medical care is adapted to respect the beliefs, values, and needs of people from different cultural backgrounds. It recognizes that healthcare isn't a "one-size-fits-all" system. When providers understand and respect patients' cultural contexts, it leads to better communication, trust, and overall care outcomes.

✅ Why Does This Matter? For many patients, cultural differences can impact how they understand illness, what treatments they prefer, and how they interact with healthcare professionals. A lack of cultural sensitivity may lead to misunderstandings, misdiagnoses, or patients feeling unheard, which can harm their health.

According to research, culturally competent care can help reduce health disparities and improve access for marginalized groups. For example, African American, Hispanic, and Native American communities often face unique challenges in healthcare settings, such as language barriers and cultural stigmas around certain treatments (Betancourt, 2006).

✅ How Does This Affect You? Whether you're a patient or a healthcare provider, cultural awareness can make a big difference:

Patients: Feel more comfortable and confident in discussing your health concerns when your cultural values are acknowledged.
Providers: By learning about different cultural practices, you can deliver more personalized and effective care.
🌟 Healthcare should reflect the diversity of the community it serves. Embracing cultural competence not only improves health outcomes but also ensures that everyone receives the respect and care they deserve.

📚 References:

Betancourt, J. R., et al. (2006). Cultural competence and health care disparities: Key perspectives and trends. Health Affairs.
Flores, G. (2000). Culture and the patient-physician relationship: Achieving cultural competency in health care. The Journal of Pediatrics.

23/08/2024

💊 When the Doctor Says, "Let's Try This New Medication" 💊

Me: "New medication? Sounds fancy! Will it make me glow, give me superpowers, or at least make me a morning person?"

Doctor: Smirks "Let's just say... it’ll be an adventure!"

Cue the dramatic pause as I prepare for the ultimate plot twist of my health journey. 🎢

But seriously, I’m ready to add another chapter to the ‘Chronicles of My Med Cabinet’—because who needs normal when you can have experimental? 🤷‍♀️

23/08/2024

"Drama doesn’t just walk into your life—it’s invited by the energy you allow. Choose peace, protect your space, and let go of what doesn’t serve you. 🌿✨ "

22/08/2024

"One of the best ways to find peace is to focus on your own path. 🌱 Minding your own business isn’t just about avoiding drama; it’s about protecting your energy and staying true to your journey. Let others do them, while you do you. ✨ "

22/08/2024

"Living with a chronic illness doesn't define me—it empowers me. 💪 I may have challenges, but I never use them as an excuse. Every day is a chance to rise above and keep pushing forward! ✨ "

21/08/2024

"Success isn't just about talent; it's about persistence. A winner never quits, and a quitter never wins. No matter the obstacles, keep moving forward. Your breakthrough is closer than you think! 💪✨ "

21/08/2024

"Life is meant to be lived to the fullest! 🌟 So, what’s stopping you? Take that leap, chase your dreams, and embrace every moment. The world is waiting for you to shine! 🌍✨ "

02/08/2024

Being a teenager can be tough, but it shouldn’t feel hopeless. Check your symptoms, and find out what you can do if you think you might have depression. Learn more from the Institute of Mental Health: https://go.nih.gov/NYKnr9A