Another Health Benefit of Coffee

Previous studies have shown that (caffeinated) coffee consumption may reduce the risk of non-melanoma skin cancers.  A new study, published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute of 447,000 people from the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study, followed patients for a period of ten years from 1996.  All were cancer free at the beginning, and researcher adjusted for various risk factors, such as UV radiation exposure, age, alcohol intake, sex, smoking history, physical activity, and body mass index.  Results showed that those who drank 4 or more cups of coffee per day had a 20% lower risk of melanoma.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Men Over Age 50 And Skin Cancer

My first skin cancer was very serious, and required a six hour surgery and a resultant scar more than six inches long.  I wasn't going for regular checkups, and I had just watched the thing enlarge, for too long, not wanting to think it needed attention.  It was a squamous cell carcinoma that fortunately did not penetrate my chest cavity.  That was over five years ago, and I have been a regular patient ever since.

The second time, I was more proactive.  I pointed it out to my Dermatologist, Dr. Ngo, at one of my six month checkups, and the removal of another squamous cell carcinoma was achieved in an office visit.  This one was on the front of my thigh and the scar is smaller because earlier treatment kept it from being more invasive.

The latest time, I wanted a biopsy of a bump on my forearm.  It was another squamous cell and it required additional surgery.  The four inch incision line is healing.

During the last surgery, Dr. Ngo kept remarking about the sun-damaged tissue she had to try to suture.  She correctly noted that years of sun exposure without proper sunscreen protection not only has resulted in these multiple cancers, but also in skin that is more difficult to repair. A word to the wise....

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170
Bakersfield, CA 93309

June Is National Cancer Survivor Month

I am two weeks from the five year mark after having an invasive squamous cell carcinoma removed from my chest. I am certainly grateful for that fact, and there are some lessons from my experience:

• I watched it develop for too long but ignored it, believing it couldn't happen to me
• I have a lifetime habit of not using enough sunscreen, a fair skinned person searching for that golden tan, when the truth is that I mostly burn and peel.
• I did, however, take note of the statistics, that having had one skin cancer, I am more at risk for a second skin cancer, and, on a regular checkup, I asked that another "growing spot on my thigh" be removed--and it was a squamous cell also.

Even though the Mohs technique was successful for me, and it was accomplished under local anesthesia, I have a clear recollection of the pulling and tugging involved that was necessary to bring the tissue together, resulting in a five inch scar across my chest.  I joke that it ended my modeling career. If there are any questions about something on your skin, see your dermatologist.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Fair Skin Needs Protection, Especially for Teens

A study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers, and Prevention followed 109,000 Caucasian women and the relationship between their sunburns and melanoma, the deadliest form of cancer.
Those who had five or more blistering sunburns as teenagers had a greater likelihood of developing melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.  Adult exposure also increased the risk of skin cancer.

Protection from ultraviolet radiation in the form of sunblock is an important method of protecting children from harm, but staying in the shade is even better.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Skin Cancer Increases Risk for Other Cancers

Skin Cancer

While most people are aware of the fact that malignant melanoma can be a life threatening form of skin cancer, and that medicine has established that a person who has had a melanoma is at greater risk for developing another melanoma and other cancers later in life, the same appears to be true for all skin cancers.  Skin cancer is a disease of all races and skin colors, not just pale whites.  A review of the literature shows that photoprotection and other preventive measures are recommended for all people when it comes to exposure to ultraviolet light.

A study in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, from Oxford University, of mortality data from 1999 to 2011 in England, showed the risk of primary malignant cancers was higher for those patients who previously had nonmelanoma skin cancers.  There was a significant increase in the rates of salivary gland, melanoma, bone and upper gastrointestinal tract cancers.  Risk was higher for those who had skin cancer at an earlier age.

Source:  HealthDay news


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Crohn's Disease Facts and Cancer Risk

Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation of the lining of the digestive tract, anywhere along its entire length, that causes a variety of symptoms.

Crohn's Symptoms

Symptoms of the disease are predominantly abdominal pain and cramping, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, vomiting or weight loss. It can also cause other complications, such as anemia, skin rashes, arthritis, eye inflammation, fatigue, and difficulty in concentration. The exact cause of the damaging digestive tract inflammation remains unknown, but is thought to be a combination of genetics, environmental factors, and an abnormal immune response or immune deficiency.

More than half a million people in the United States have been diagnosed, but symptoms often exist long prior to diagnosis. The usual onset of the disease is between the ages of 15 and 30 years old, but can occur at any age. Males and females are equally affected. Tobacco smokers are twice more likely to develop it. Treatment is directed to controlling symptoms. maintaining remission and preventing relapse. There appears to be a link between the disease and an increased risk of cancer, specifically lymphoma, leukemia, of the small bowel, colorectal cancer and skin cancer. Additional risk is thought to exist for liver, pancreatic, kidney and testicular cancer.


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Indoor Tanning Hazardous Especially For Young Ages

JAMA Dermatology just recently published a systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis, done by the University of California in San Francisco, to assess the international prevalence of exposure to indoor tanning among over 400,000 participants in Australia, Europe and the United States.  They studied the risk for both nonmelanoma skin cancer and for melanoma.

The World Health Organization rates indoor tanning as a group 1 carcinogen with malignant melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancer.  The researchers found that the risk of all types of skin cancers was highest in those exposed at young ages, and because indoor tanning is still common among youth, determined indoor tanning to be a major public health issue.

For more detail, see: www.chemotherapyadvisor.com


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Tanning Beds Increases Melanoma in Young Adults

Tanning beds are bad news for younger people, and still 40% of them do it!  In Mayo ClinicProceedings, a study reports that between the years 1970 and 2009 the incidence of melanoma increased eightfold among young women and fourfold among young men between the ages of 18 and 39.  Besides the tendency of younger skin to be vulnerable and younger people less likely to use sunscreen protection, the researchers linked the risk of melanoma to tanning-bed use.  Tanning beds can give seven times the dose of UV radiation as the sun.  In 2009, the International Agency of Researchon Cancer declared tanning beds a human carcinogen, moving them into the top cancer-risk category alongside cigarettes.  

Source: Time Magazine 

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Do You Burn and Peel?

People with certain risk factors are more likely than others to develop skin cancer. Risk factors vary for different types of skin cancer, but some general risk factors are having:

• A lighter natural skin color.
• Family history of skin cancer.
• A personal history of skin cancer.
• Exposure to the sun through work and play.
• A history of sunburns early in life.
• A history of indoor tanning.
• Skin that burns, freckles, reddens easily, or becomes painful in the sun.
• Blue or green eyes.
• Blond or red hair.
• Certain types and a large number of moles.

Having had squamous cell carcinoma of the skin twice myself, I can lay claim to at least half of the risk factors on the list.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Risk Factors and Screening for Melanoma

Men and women of all ages and races can develop melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer. UV radiation is thought to be the biggest risk factor for most melanomas. The main source of UV light is the sun, although tanning lamps also emit high levels of UV light. Aside from UV radiation, there are several other factors that increase the chances that a person will develop melanoma. It is important to be aware of these risk factors, as melanoma is most treatable when detected in its early stages.

Risk factors for melanoma include:

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation Exposure to UV radiation from the sun and from tanning beds increases the risk of melanoma.

Sunburns Blistering caused by overexposure to the sun, especially at a young age, can double a person's chances of developing melanoma. Always apply sunscreen generously and use caution in the sun.

Fair skin and freckles Melanoma occurs more frequently in people with fair skin. Freckles also mark a mild increase in risk.

Light hair and eye color The risk of melanoma is higher for people with blue eyes and those who have blond or red hair.

A large number of ordinary moles People who have more than 50 moles are at an increased risk of developing melanoma.

Abnormal moles Moles that are larger than normal, have several shades of pigment, or have fuzzy or indistinct edges are more likely to become cancerous than ordinary moles.

Family history Melanoma can sometimes run in families; having two or more close family members who have melanoma is a strong risk factor.

Non-melanoma skin cancer People who have other kinds of skin cancer are at a higher risk for developing melanoma.

Examining Your Skin

Get a professional skin examination from a dermatologist once a year, and learn how to perform a monthly skin self-examination. Skin self-exams do not require any special medical equipment. All you need are your eyes, a mirror, and the knowledge of what to look for. Here are some tips for performing a skin self-examination:

• Perform skin self-examinations in a well-lit room in front of a full-length mirror. Use a handheld mirror for hard-to-see places. The best time to do a skin self-exam is after a shower or bath.
  
• Learn the pattern of your moles, freckles, or other birthmarks so that you will notice any changes.
  
• Look for new growths, spots, bumps, or sores that do not heal normally.
  
• Don't forget hard-to-see areas of your body such as your head, the underside of your arms, the backs of your legs, and between your toes.
  
  
  

The “ABCDEs” of Moles

If you have any moles that fit the following criteria, ask your doctor to check them out.
Asymmetrical: Is the mole oddly shaped?
Border: Does the mole have irregular or vaguely defined borders?
Color: Does the mole have uneven coloring or multiple colors?
Diameter: Is the mole larger than a pencil eraser or is it growing in size?

Evolution: Has the mole grown or changed in any way?

Source: This article originally appeared on Oncology Nurse Advisor.


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Staying Safe in the Sun

The sun is an important part of our lives. Sunny days have a positive impact on our mood, increase our level of physical activity, make many social events and gatherings possible, and even benefit our health by providing our bodies with essential vitamin D. Unfortunately, sun exposure also presents risk factors that can lead to skin or eye damage, and even skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common of all cancer types. Most skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. Prevention and early detection are the best ways to keep your skin healthy. It's important to learn what you can do to protect yourself and how to spot any possible signs of skin cancer.

Here are some easy ways to protect your skin from sun damage:

Wear sunscreen with a SPF 15 or higher. If you have fair skin or light hair, you are more susceptible to the sun's rays and should use a sunscreen with a higher SPF.

Choose sunscreen labeled “broad spectrum” meaning that it protects against two types of harmful rays: UVA and UVB.

Use waterproof sunscreen to make sure it stays on longer, even if you perspire or get wet.

Reapply sunscreen often – usually every two hours, but sooner if you've been swimming or are perspiring heavily.

Cover your whole body. Remember those areas that can be easy to forget, such as your ears, eyelids, lips, nose, hands, feet, and the top of your head.

Seek shade or avoid the sun during the peak hours of 10am – 4pm. The sun is strongest during those hours, even on cloudy days.

Wear a hat with a wide brim to help shade your eyes, ears and head.

Wear wrap-around sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection to safeguard your eyes.

Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that protects a larger area of your skin such as long-sleeve shirts or long pants. Tightly woven fabrics in dark or bright colors are best.

Examining Your Skin

Get a professional skin examination from a dermatologist once a year, and learn how to perform a monthly self-examination. Skin self-exams do not require any special medical equipment. All you need are your eyes, a mirror, and the knowledge of what to look for. Here are some tips:

• Perform skin self-examinations in a well-lit room in front of a full-length mirror. Use a handheld mirror for hard-to-see places.
• Learn the pattern of your moles, freckles or other birthmarks so that you will notice any changes.
• Look for new growths, spots, bumps or sores that do not heal normally.
• Don't forget hard-to-see areas of your body such as your head, the underside of your arms, the backs of your legs, and between your toes.
• Know the “ABCDs” of moles. If you have any moles that fit the following criteria, ask your doctor to check them out.

Asymmetrical: Is the mole oddly shaped?
Border: Does the mole have irregular or vaguely defined borders?
Color: Does the mole have uneven coloring or multiple colors?

Diameter: Is the mole larger than a pencil eraser or is it growing in size?

Source: This article originally appeared on Oncology Nurse Advisor.


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Melanoma Survivors Must Remain Vigilant

A new study finds that cancer survivors are at increased risk for cutaneous melanoma, one of the most aggressive forms of skin cancer.  Cutaneous melanoma is the 5th most diagnosed cancer in US men and 7th most commonly diagnosed in women.  Overall incidence is increasing; death rates have decreased little, despite survival gains for other types of cancer.  Ultraviolet radiation exposure is the greatest risk factor for cutaneous melanoma.  Researchers analyzed data from US patients with melanoma as a first primary cancer and patients who were diagnosed with melanoma after surviving a previous cancer.  Among patients age 45 or older at first cancer diagnosis, the risk of developing cutaneous melanoma was much higher among those previously diagnosed with melanoma or other skin cancers, ocular melanoma, breast cancer or lymphoma.  Results suggest the need for continues skin surveillance in melanoma survivors as the risk remains elevated for over 15 years.


Source: Archives of Dermatology

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Skin Cancer Contributes To Other Cancers

A study of 153,612 participants by researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School found:

• 36,102 non-melanoma skin cancers, due to UV exposure
• for women in the skin cancer group, there was a 20% greater risk of developing another form of cancer other than melanoma (breast and lung) over a 25 year period, compared to those without prior skin cancer
• for men in the skin cancer group, there was an 11% greater risk of developing prostate and lung cancer over the same time period, compared to those without prior skin cancer

While the association between non-melanoma skin cancers and other cancers exists, researchers have yet to determine the nature of the connection.  However, protecting oneself from UV exposure has far-reaching benefits.

Source:  A. Sifferlin, healthland.time.com

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Previous Cancer May Up Melanoma Risk

Cancer Survivors Have Higher Risk Of Melanoma

Almost four years after my first cancer surgery, and my six inch surgical scar has shrunk to half that length, I have to remember that the battle is not over. I still have fair skin tone, the kind of skin that burns and peels instead of tans.  In fact, I had another cancer removed less than a year ago, and I doubt whether the wound will ever fill in completely.

A new study finds that cancer survivors are at increased risk for cutaneous melanoma, one of the most aggressive forms of skin cancer.

Cutaneous melanoma is the 5th most diagnosed cancer in US men and 7th most commonly diagnosed in women. Overall incidence is increasing; death rates have decreased little, despite survival gains for other types of cancer.

Ultraviolet radiation exposure is the greatest risk factor for cutaneous melanoma.

Researchers analyzed data from US patients with melanoma as a first primary cancer and patients who were diagnosed with melanoma after surviving a previous cancer.

Among patients age 45 or older at first cancer diagnosis, the risk of developing cutaneous melanoma was much higher among those previously diagnosed with melanoma or other skin cancers, ocular melanoma, breast cancer or lymphoma.

Results suggest the need for continues skin surveillance in melanoma survivors as the risk remains elevated for over 15 years

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Men Over Age 50 and Skin Cancer

Battled Skin Cancer, Twice

I have had skin cancer twice.  The first time was very serious and resulted in a six hour surgery and a resultant scar more than four inches long.  I wasn't going for regular checkups, and I had just watched the thing enlarge, for too long, not wanting to think it needed attention.  The second time, I was more proactive, and pointed it out to my dermatologist, and the removal was achieved in an office visit.  At least the scar is smaller because earlier treatment kept it from being more invasive.

The American Academy of Dermatology reports that older men should screen themselves for skin cancer.
Two studies presented at the Academy's Annual Meeting showed men aged 50 years or older are more likely to be diagnosed with invasive melanoma by a dermatologist than to detect it themselves, and they are less likely to seek a skin cancer screening due to a suspicious lesion.

Since delayed diagnosis has greater consequences, even sometimes death, my personal experience makes me encourage men over 50 to have their skin checked regularly.

For more information, check out HealthDay News.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Melanoma: The "ABCDEs" of Moles

How Serious is Melanoma?

Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer.  The biggest risk factor is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, from the sun and tanning beds.  People with fair skin and freckles, light hair and eye color, who have a large number of ordinary moles, who have a family history of melanoma, or people who have had other kinds of skin cancer are at a higher risk for developing melanoma.

Always Remember Your ABCDE's 

A monthly skin self-examination should look out for:

• Asymmetrical: is the mole oddly shaped?
• Border: does the mole have irregular or vaguely defined borders?
• Color: is the coloring uneven or multiple colors?
• Diameter: is it larger than a pencil eraser or is it growing in size?
• Evolution: has it grown or changed in any way?

If any of your moles fit the above criteria, ask your doctor to check them out.

Source:  www.HealthCentral.com/CancerStages

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309