Potential New Natural Cancer Treatments: Is Marijuana a Cure for Cancer?

Cannabis (Marijuana) kills Cancer. Researchers, even the U.S. government, have acknowledged this as fact. Unfortunately, due to previous controlled substance restrictions, necessary testing hasn’t been done to confirm its full curative power, principal healing components, or most effective dosage. For much of that, we unfortunately rely on unverified anecdotal stories and limited laboratory studies. Even with a Federal Report clearly linking cannabinoids found in cannabis to cancer cell death, retardation of cell growth, and reduction of metastasis that reduce the growth and spread of cancer, we are still in the dark. By the way, this report also suggests when cannabis is used with various forms of chemotherapy; it increases the cancer drug’s uptake, heightening the effectiveness of chemotherapy cancer treatment. 

Cannabis is certainly complex. There are over 85 unique cannabinoids found in cannabis. When cannabis is ingested these cannabinoids travel through the blood to eventually lock onto many different cannabinoid protein receptors on the surface of cells. Some of these receptors are classified as CB1, CB2, and a family of receptors known as GPR. CB1 receptors are more abundant throughout the nervous system. CB2 receptors are mostly in the immune system. CB1 and CB2 receptors are also found on cancer cells assisting with regulation of cell death and growth. And a combined receptor composed of linked CB2R with GPR55 is even more abundant on cancer cells. Because of the nature of cancer, when cannabinoids lock onto cancer cells the reaction is considerably different than when they lock onto healthy cell receptors. Cancer cells have far more receptors than healthy cells and have a different reaction to the THC and CBD than healthy cells. Essentially the cannabis while killing cancer cells leave healthy cells unaffected. For our purpose here we are focusing principally on two cannabinoids, THC and CBD. This in no way implies other cannabinoids do not play a part in the healing process. It’s just not yet understood, needing further research.

THC is the substance that gets you high when you smoke, drink, or eat cannabis, marijuana, or ‘pot’. If you grew up in the 60’s you may understand this process all too well. THC is also one of the principal ingredients in cannabis that kills cancer. When activated, it easily attaches to cancer cells via cannabinoid receptors. This process generates a ceramide, a lipid molecule, disrupting the mitochondria, shutting down the cell’s energy flow. As a result, the mitochondria release ctochrome-c, a protein that catalyzes reactions, and ROS (reactive oxygen species) into the cytosol, the fluid found in each cell. Additionally the calcium chemical process in the mitochondria is further damaged. These actions cause the cancer cell to die. So largely THC works on an oxidative process within cancer cells. For this reason it is important to reduce the amount of antioxidants ingested during cannabis treatment, and be especially careful of any large amount of antioxidant food or supplements within 6-hours before or 4-hours after a cannabis application.

CBD on the other hand operates differently. When it locks onto the cancer cell it disrupts the endoplasmic reticulum that facilitates transportation of proteins within the cancer cell by destroying the calcium functional process of the cell. This causes calcium to flow into the cytosol causing cell death. In addition, it facilitates the break down of proteins and peptides in cancer cells, again causing their death. 

Together THC and CBD found in cannabis deal cancer a one-two punch. Limited research has shown THC effective at killing cancer cells and CBD not only assisting with the death of cancer cells but especially effective at stopping metastasis. In the lab, cannabinoids have been found to stop cancer cells from dividing, to prevent new blood vessel growth supplying tumors, and accelerating cancer’s own waste disposal process, called autophage, which also assists in cancer cell death. Bay area researchers McAllister and Desprez recently confirmed cannabis inhibits cancer’s progress keeping it from metastasizing. In addition when used together, CBD assists to mildly reduce the ‘getting high’ effects of THC making the entire treatment process a bit easier. 

Without doubt, cannabis contains many interesting and healing properties. In addition to arresting cancer, it has been linked with reduced inflammation and seizures, moderating stomach issues, reducing anxiety, depression and psychosis, and helping to resolve neurodegenerative disorders. With all of these benefits many have jumped on the bandwagon offering Internet promotions for CBD oil; yet cannabis is still illegal throughout much of the U.S., so what are they really promoting? Unfortunately, what they’re offering on the Internet will be of little use to cancer patients. You see there are two forms of CBD oil, one made from cannabis, the other made from legal commercial hemp. Though in essence the same plant family, they are far different products. So be very careful in what you buy. Commercial hemp oil, also sometimes sold as CBD oil, actually contains very little beneficial CBD, only 25 parts per million; whereas cannabis CBD oil has naturally occurring CBD at around 150,000 parts per million. You will not receive the benefits you need from commercial hemp oil. Also products sold on the street labeled CBD oil or Rick Simpson Oil may include unknown ingredients, may have reduced potency, or have been manufactured in such a way to compromise the healing properties of the cannabis. For prostate cancer you need the highest quality of purified activated THC and CBD, preferably in a one to one ratio. So where can you find these products in the safest possible manner?

You could start by obtaining a legal medical card if you reside in any one of the 23 U.S. States and Washington, DC now approving medical marijuana use. And the list just keeps growing. This has the benefits of providing cannabis in the most standardized form and quality, with the lowest possible price. Most states only require residency along with a valid medical examination or consultation, and proof you have a condition that will benefit from cannabis treatment. Cancer usually tops their list. When going to this appointment, be sure to bring your cancer documentation such as lab tests, scans, and biopsy reports. After the exam, you’ll be issued a medical marijuana card or certificate to take to a licensed dispensary of your choice. There you will be able to purchase product for treatment. Of course if you’re fortunate to live in Colorado or Washington State where recreational marijuana is now legal, you have the benefit of being able to go to the store for purchase, though the specific product you want may not be carried in their inventory. You’ll also find this retail process more expensive and technically you’ll still need to be a state resident. You know, if it came down to it and you really wanted to try cannabis for your cancer, I would not hesitate to move to a state where medical or recreational forms are legal. It keeps you safe, and legal, for the 3-4 months of self-treatment, and it’s a lot less costly with fewer side effects than many accepted cancer treatments.

When purchasing product you want to look for THC and CBD oil combined in roughly a One to One Ratio. Most often attaining this ratio will require combining two or three products. Many of these products, looking like black or amber goo, come in tubes, or small syringes without the needle. They’re sold as CBD Oil, Rick Simpson Oil (RSO), or possibly a CO2 extracted oil. When first looking for acceptable product, you’ll find that the ratios of THC to CBD vary greatly from location to location, and product to product. Pay particular attention to ‘fully tested and certified’ product. Before purchasing any product, you need to know the following:

1) What are the percentages of THC and CBD per gram of product?

2) What are the percentages of Activated THC and Activated CBD?

2) Are there any solvent residues present?

4) Are there any traces of foreign material and microbial contaminants present?

Presently a typical product selection may include tested results such as these:

Product A) High CBD oil:

15.34% Total THC, 59.98% Total CBD, with Total Activated Cannabinoids 61.93%

Product B) High THC RSO oil:

81.26% Total THC, 0.24% Total CBD, with Total Activated Cannabinoids 85.40%

Let’s take a look at how these numbers affect your THC and CBD mixing ratio.

In 1 gram of our example High CBD oil there is:

            1,000mg X 15.34% = 153.40mg THC

            1,000mg X 59.98% = 599.80mg CBD

            This equals a THC/CBD ratio of 1 to 3.91 roughly 1:4

Total Activated Cannabinoids in Product-A are listed as = 61.93% of total volume and are in a roughly 1 to 4 ratio. These include all cannabinoids in the product, not just THC and CBD though these are the principal components. Now remember, we are looking for a close 1 to 1 ratio of activated THC and CBD. Thus we need to add some High THC oil into the mix.

Next, in one gram of the example High THC oil there is:

            1,000mg X 81.26% = 812.6mg THC

            1,000mg X 0.24% = 2.4mg CBD

            This equals a THC/CBD ratio of approximately 339 to 1

            Total Activated Cannabinoids in Product B are listed as = 85.40%

Given the THC and CBD numbers in One Gram of Product-A, for a 1-gram daily dose using these products, I might suggest combining approximately 2/3 gram of Product-A and 1/3 gram of Product-B.

This process becomes further complicated when the activated Cannabinoids total much less than total THC and CBD, as activated cannabinoids are required for effective treatment. You can see why having reliable test results and proper labeling of cannabis products is so important. Without product test results, you are only guessing. Can you treat without knowing the numbers, possibly… but most likely not in a successful manner. At this time researchers and doctors tend to agree that keeping your activated THC and activated CBD ratios balanced will provide the best possible results. It may take you some time to find the best product(s). Just keep asking questions, and if one outlet is unable provide you with a verifiable breakdown of their product’s components, go somewhere else!

As a last resort you could make your own product by purchasing unprocessed marijuana and cooking it. There are several strains of marijuana that have been breed for different purposes. Some strains have almost breed out all the CBD in favor of higher THC. For treatment, you will be looking for an Indica Strain, not Sativa, with balanced CBD and THC. Using this product you might try making your own hash-oil, which is a very dangerous process when done improperly. This process is not only toxic, but has caused fires and explosions when performed in a confined space. Besides it stinks, and the neighbors will quickly come to the realization what you’re doing. The person who pioneered this process, and popularized treatment of cancer with cannabis, is Rick Simpson. His story and his hash-oil process may be found on the web at PhoenixTears. But because of the dangers of this extraction process, I do not recommend it.

Recently, a less volatile home based process has been added to create product for treatment. Again you start with the raw marijuana but then you process it with coconut oil over low heat (180 degrees F) for around 11+ hours. This forms a cannabis paste. Since no volatile solvents are involved, the entire process is much safer. Of course, with this process you will still need to pay for your own finished product testing that in itself will be costly in small batches, both in terms of dollars and consuming available product. Full testing can run over $200, and consume from 2-4 grams of finished product. Not an expense an individual user wants to undertake.

Because of this, my preference would be to legally buy your finished, fully tested, product from a reliable source. But if that’s just not possible, here is one cannabis paste process:

Start with at least 4-8 grams of Buds that have been properly tested so you know the ratio of CBD to THC. Spread these on a cookie sheet and dry them in the oven at low temperature (180º F) for 1-2 hours. When sufficiently dried, remove and blend the cooled Bud into a fine powder mixture in an electric coffee grinder, or similar product. Then in a double boiler on the stovetop, like you would use for melting chocolate, cover the powder with roughly an equal volume of melted coconut oil. Heat slowly on a ‘low’ temperature of 180º F to 200º F for at least 11 hours. Check temperature of this mixture with a thermometer often during the process. After cooling have resultant paste tested for mixture ratio and percent of activated product. If you think this sounds like a lengthy process, you’re right. It’s also a mess to clean up, and it stinks. So once again, it’s best to seek out legal pre-made product that’s been properly tested. More about this cannabis paste process is available online.

Why does one desire heated marijuana for treatment? It’s to convert it into an effective product for the body to use. Raw unprocessed cannabis contains mostly THCA; this simply doesn’t fit effectively into the CB1 receptor. The same applies to CBD. When properly heated during the process to convert CBD and THC, the heat causes a carboxyl group to be removed thus creating active THC and active CBD. The process is called decarboxylation. It’s best done at low temperatures over time preventing destruction of cannabinoids and terpenes in the cannabis. This new Activated THC and CBD will now fit perfectly into the CB1 receptors on cancer cells. Regardless if you are using RSO Oil, Cannabis Paste, CO2 Extracted Oil or CBD Oil, the extraction process requires heat over time to decarboxylate and activate the finished product. The problem becomes at what temperature. Too high a heat will destroy the beneficial properties of the cannabis, while too little will not decarboxylate the THCA and CBDA. Biochemist Dennis Hill, who states he successfully treated his Stage 4 prostate cancer with cannabis, suggests the optimal heat is 240 degrees F for 30 to 45 minutes. Heat may also be applied at lower temperatures for a longer time creating the same results, such as in the long processing time of cannabis paste.

Once you have tested product, active THC and CBD, treatment begins. No precise scientific proven dosage recommendations exist. Rick Simpson suggests working your dosage of Rick Simpson Oil gradually up over time to ultimately reach one (1) gram per day for a total of 60 days. Biochemist Dennis Hill having declared he cured his Stage 4 Prostate Cancer using Rick Simpson Oil, suggests simply taking as much as possible in the evening before bed, then smaller amounts during the day. After 6-months of treatment, Mr. Hill’s biopsy confirmed his cancer was gone. Now to assure it doesn’t return he states he takes a maintenance dose at much lower potency with balanced activated THC and CBD.

If you have decided this may be a path to try, above all else remember, THC will make you high, possibly impairing reflexes and judgment. Do not plan on normal activity levels during the course of treatment, and never, ever, put those around you at risk when ‘buzzed’ on THC. Remember this is an experimental cancer treatment, be responsible!

Little has been written about the debilitating effects of short term high-dose cannabis treatments. When taken orally in high doses, you may find yourself unable to function at the most basic tasks. Even a trip to the bathroom can be challenging and difficult to navigate. This is because around half of the ‘oral’ THC is converted in the liver into a strong psychoactive metabolite called 11-Hydroxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol that gets you incredibly ‘high’. Immediate side effects of treating orally with THC include sensory distortion, poor coordination, slower reaction time, lowered blood pressure that may cause fainting, and possible panic or anxiety. There is also the possibility your heart may speed up during the process so be sure to have it checked prior to treatment, and find a doctor who understands cannabis follow your progress. After the initial high, many feel sleepy or even depressed. Suggested long-term side effects could include suppression of the immune system, sexual difficulties, mood changes, and the inability to properly reason. These long-term side effects have been witnessed after years of cannabis self-indulgence, therefore the few months of cancer treatment will most likely not be an issue. Still everyone is biologically different, so beware. Needless to say the side effects most often experienced are far less than those from many standard medical treatments for cancer.

One last note regarding possible side effects and withdrawal symptoms, when taking 1 gram of cannabis per day your body will become attuned to the cannabis. If you quickly stop the treatment, withdrawal symptoms will occur. These could include night sweats, interrupted sleep, vivid dreams, and general flu-like symptoms. Symptoms usually last for 3-5 days, gradually tapering off. To avoid withdrawal, the best process is to lower your cannabis dosage very slowly over several weeks time, and be sure to contact your doctor if symptoms persist.

You may also want to discuss with your doctor using Citicoline during cannabis treatment and/or at withdrawal. This is a readily available supplement in the U.S. with a reasonable safety track record. Most common side effects for large doses include stomach upset and diarrhea. Some believe it can be used during treatment to mitigate the side effects of THC psychoactivity reducing such side effects as paranoia and anxiety, while improving focus and mental energy. This is believed to allow for a quicker dosage ramp-up and easier withdrawal. The suggested use during treatment is to take 250-500mg one hour before a cannabis dose. More research on this product and dosage needs to be done. Citicoline facilitates production of phosphatidylcholine a chemical important for brain function. It may also protect against brain tissue damage, improve visual function, increase brain glucose metabolism, increase dopamine receptors, and prevent memory impairment. Again, few studies have been completed regarding this product and cannabis though it has been used for many years. A June 2014 review of literature regarding Citicoline concludes that it is considered neuroprotective against the neurotoxic effects of drug use thereby reducing withdrawal symptoms. 

Having said all this, there may be a way to avoid the extreme debilitating highs when using cannabis while possibly improving cannabis absorption. Though more testing is needed, the solution appears to be through rectal administration using available, or homemade suppositories, or 1CC slip or soft tip syringes (without needle) with RSO or CO2 extracted oils. Using this method, the THC and CBD avoid the digestive track and liver, and travel into the body through the vena cava allowing for much better bioavailability, higher blood concentrations that begin sooner and last longer, and fewer psychoactive side effects. Suppository molds, and 1CC slip tip syringes are easily available through Amazon.com. Those who make their own suppositories often use cocoa butter as a carrier as it is solid at room temperature, melts in the body, and is generally soothing and non-irritating. If you are fortunate enough to live in Colorado, there already exist legal outlets where properly tested cannabis suppositories are available, along with medical doctors who will provide advise regarding their use. 

In addition to the potential healing properties of THC and CBD, positive side effects of using suppositories in this manner include reduction of hemorrhoids and rectal inflammation, and you are able to function much better on a day-to-day basis during treatment.

Making cannabis suppositories at home is relatively easy, especially with single-use suppository molds available online. Start with a ratio of 10 grams of cocoa butter to 1-2 grams of activated cannabis oil. After doing your calculations regarding percent of activated THC and CBD for each product, you will know what amounts of THC and CBD to combine to achieve the nearest 50/50 ratio of THC and CBD. Cocoa butter is also available online, or from any good chocolate store.

Now use very low heat to slowly melt the cocoa butter. Be careful not to burn the oil. Using a double boiler often used to melt chocolate is recommended. Then add the cannabis oil and stir thoroughly until evenly distributed and mixed. This may take some time. Once mixed, pour the warm fluid into the suppository molds, and set aside to harden. You can facilitate this process by placing the filled molds in the refrigerator or freezer. These low-dose suppositories are now ready for use. As you continue to use the cannabis, gradually increase the amount of activated THC and CBD in the suppositories over time. Your goal is to reach a point where your have 1 gram of a 50/50 THC and CBD blend in each suppository with at least 70-80% activated product. Once this is reached, continue with application for two months and then test your cancer markers. During this treatment time, pay particular attention to staying hydrated. Drink extra water and electrolytes to prevent rectal dehydration that tends to reduce rectal absorption.

Throughout this section, I have repeatedly written about using properly tested legal product. With each State creating individual diverse laws for the legalization of medical marijuana, there is much to be desired concerning the quality of available product. In some instances, even with purchasing product from a legal source, you may not receive what’s advertised, or even have available the product you need.

For example, buying product in Washington State at this writing is a bit like buying products in the Old West out of a covered wagon that just pulled into town. Medical marijuana outlets range the gamut from sleazy dives to clean well-run medical facilities. Within each of these facilities, the greater abundance of product is without test results, and staff often has minimal product knowledge. Then when the marijuana does include some published ingredient information on the packaging, the information may not be complete or there is little backup documentation. That’s right, the product may be labeled for THC, and or CBD percentage, but does not come with the test report verifying the printed information, percent of ‘activated’ product, or if there are residual solvents or biological contaminates. Instead the purchaser often hears, “trust me, others are getting good results”. Even finding product can be a problem. Most dispensaries of medical marijuana have little high quality CBD available. You see much of the available plants are now genetically grown to enhance THC, not CBD. For cancer patients, this is a continuous issue.

Then there is the secret shopper Report from New Mexico. A neuropathy patient, working with a local newspaper and testing lab, purchased 14 cannabis products from shops in the Santa Fee and Albuquerque areas. What they discovered was disappointing. While some products tested as advertised for quantities of THC and CBD, many only contained 10% to 50% of labeled quantities. This is a clear case where patients in need were being sold substandard product.

What can be done about these deficiencies and abuse? Until we have Federal approval and uniform product regulation, patients should refuse to purchase any product without full test reports openly available. Further, I believe States that provide approval for medical marijuana need to setup their own ‘secret shopper’ random testing program with large fines for any licensed retailer selling substandard, untested product to medical marijuana patients. Fines and licensing fees could easily cover the cost of shoppers, product purchase, and testing. Clearly the system to date is not perfect, though I believe we are headed in the right direction, and medical marijuana does appear to be getting results.

Does cannabis work to cure cancer or put it into remission? You be the judge. Cancer cure rates are largely unknown; to our disgrace as yet no major patient studies have been completed, though excellent results have been obtained in smaller clinical trials and laboratory settings. All you can do now is read as many smaller studies and personal stories as possible, both the good and the bad, then make your own decision. The good news is the choice is yours.

Laboratory studies have been promising. So much so that one recent 2013 study clearly supports full clinical testing of CBD for treating prostate cancer. From around the world there are many medical studies that support the use of cannabis to treat cancer in many of its forms including brain cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, blood cancer, oral cancer, and pancreatic cancer. A 2006 study with patients suffering from glioblastoma multiforme who previously experienced failed treatment with surgery and radiation found life extension with THC usage. A 2010 breast cancer study confirmed that THC reduced tumor growth and the severity of lung cancer metastases. A 2008 study by Harvard Medical Schoolfound that THC inhibited lung cancer cell migration, and recommended that it be explored to control growth and metastasis of various cancers. A Swedish 2006 study confirmed that cannabinoids kill mantle cell lymphoma. Another study relating to oral tumors showed cannabinoids are toxic to malignant tumors. In addition there are many stories from patients who reported melanoma cures through the use of topical cannabis oil. Foundation for this process is backed through limited recent such as the 2013 paper, ‘Epigenetic control of skin differentiation genes by phytocannabinoids’, and the 2015 research study ‘Differential role of cannabinoids in the pathogenesis of skin cancer’. 

And the list of healing stories and research goes on. For further information you may also want to visit the Alchimia Blog to view a list of 82 studies of marijuana in relation to cancer. Clearly cannabis is providing some form of positive healing results for treating cancer. Why then if we truly want to cure cancer, do we not do everything within our power to explore it further? Could it be the stigma of getting high or that it is not socially and politically correct? More likely it is because there is no major financial return for pharmaceutical companies? Cannabis is easy to grow, much less expensive compared to new approved drugs, and available around the world. Because of this the question becomes, “Regardless of its ability to relieve suffering and save lives, who will fund the millions needed to do the research for its official approval?”

Stay tuned for my next post in this series on Potential New Natural Cancer Treatments.

Potential New Natural Cancer Treatments - Artesunate

Artesunate, Artemisinin & Artemether

Are you looking for a cancer treatment that attacks, and kills cancer cells with little harm to healthy cells? Now add, it should have zero to minimal side effects when administered properly, cost less than $3.00 per day for treatment, and obtain excellent results. The answer may be closer than you think.

One of the most promising new cancer treatment possibilities is Artesunate, a standardized pharmaceutical grade derivative of Artemisinin from the Artemisia annua plant, also known as Sweet Wormwood or Sweet Annie. Artemisia annua has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. In fact, records of its use were unearthed in an ancient Han Tomb at Mawangdui outlining treatment for malaria with Artemisia. Also discovered, was a small region in Viet Nam that has been quietly relying on the Artemisia Anna plant for its malaria healing powers.

As a result of these discoveries, in the 1960’s the Chinese began using this plant to treat malaria. In the 1970’s the World Health Organization began investigating Artemisia annua as a malaria cure when Quinine became less effective. And in 1972, Artemisinin was isolated from the plant by Dr. Tu Youyou of China as one of its principal active ingredients. For this discovery and his work with Artemisinin, Dr Tu received a Nobel Prize in 2015.

Since then, Artemisinin, and its two most common derivatives, Artesunate and Artemether, have been used around the world to treat malaria. Artemisinin works because malaria parasites consume large quantities of red blood cells containing iron. They become loaded with iron. Adding Artemisinin causes a reaction with this iron releasing reactive oxygen species that destroy the parasite.

In the U.S., the FDA has also approved a drug made from this research for malaria treatment. In addition, because of Artemisinin’s extended use, there are excellent records for dosage, effectiveness, and side effects regarding the Artemisia annua plant, Artemisinin, Artesunate, and Artemether. So what does this have to do with cancer? The answer revolves around malaria and cancer’s need for iron to survive.

Now fast forward to present time. Due to recent research, some provided by the University of Washington, scientists are looking at the Artemesia family of compounds as a treatment for cancer. In fact, preliminary research has progressed so well that one company in the Pacific Northwest, working to improve Artemisinin’s effectiveness, is ready to initiate phase one trials in relation to breast and prostate cancer, as soon as they are able to fund the project. So you’re probably asking yourself, how does it work? To answer, it’s important first to understand one of the principal processes of cancer cells. This is, cancer’s critical need for iron.

Iron is essential for each cancer cell’s metabolism, cell division, and survival. It plays a part in DNA synthesis, cellular respiration, and macromolecule biosynthesis. It is vital for cell growth and proliferation. In fact, it is so necessary for cancer cells that without it they die. Now we all need a certain level of iron for proper bodily functions. Too little iron, you become sick and anemic. Too much iron and you could experience chronic fatigue, joint and abdominal pain, even liver and heart failure. And an over-abundance of iron is also believed to fuel cancer’s growth like pouring gasoline on a fire.

Normal cells in your body need minimal iron, but cancer cells need more. It’s their key for cellular division. To gather the iron cancer needs, prostate and breast cancer cells have many more transferrin iron-receptors on their surface than healthy cells, as many as 15 times more! Leukemia cancer cells require the highest concentration of iron. Their iron storage can reach 1,000 times more than healthy cells. All this iron comes from the food we eat.

When we consume foods with iron, the iron is absorbed by the small intestine. It’s then carried to the cells by a plasma protein called transferrin. Our cells have transferrin receptors on their surface. Sort of like a receptacle or dock waiting for its mate or ship to arrive.  As the iron carrying transferrin joins with each cell’s transferrin receptors, it’s transported into the cell by a kind of vesicle, essentially a sac. The transferrin is then released into the cell and the empty receptor is transported back to the cell surface to gather more transferrin. This is a process of continuous repetition, though much more abundant for cancer cells due to their greater quantity of transferrin receptors. In addition to cells collecting iron, much iron is transported to the bone marrow where it’s used to make hemoglobin and red blood cells. These then circulate throughout the body supplying oxygen to tissues and organs. Iron in the blood is an important factor when considering Artemisinin treatment, and it also presents an excellent way of monitoring for side effects. More on this later. 

Now comes the important cancer termination part. The Artemisinin family of compounds contains two oxygen atoms hooked together in an endoperoxide linkage. When put together with iron this bond breaks, thus forming free radicals that destroy the cancer cell from within.

Technically Artesunate, which is readily hydrolyzed back to a DHA metabolite, is activated by iron in the cancer cells. This combination produces highly alkylating carbon-centered radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Because tumor cells are already damaged, they have lower expression of antioxidant compounds and other factors necessary to repair the damage caused by the flood of alkylating carbon-centered radicals and ROS. Thus the cancer cell ceases to function.

Healthy cells require much less iron. They also are better equipped to repair oxidative damage. Because of this, Artemisinin effectively targets cancer cells while leaving healthy cells in tact.

Though few official studies have been completed, reported results from cancer patients taking Artemisinin Compounds are remarkable.

• A 47-year-old male with an egg-sized head lymphoma who took Artemisinin for two weeks experienced complete healing four weeks later. The tumor was gone with no mass remaining.

• A woman with stage-4 breast cancer after receiving Artemisinin derivatives reported renewed wellness, feeling like before she was diagnosed with cancer. Her CT Scan confirmed remission.

• A 40-year-old woman with breast cancer and spine metastases after four months of supplementation with oral Artemisinin derivatives showed no remaining cancer on her spine using a PET scan.

• A woman with metastasized breast cancer was able to stop her drug use of zoledronic acid and Tamoxifen with her oncologist’s understanding because her cancer markers had so improved after taking a course of Artesunate.

• A male, with larynx cancer treated with Artesunate injections for two months was able to shrink his tumor by 70 %.

• A Belgium man with a PSA of 12 reported his PSA dropped to 0.38 with Artemisinin derivative treatment.

• Others with prostate cancer have been able to drop their PSA significantly with Artemisinin and derivative treatment, from 4 to 2, from 7.8 to 1.9, and from 3 to 0.45 respectively, all within 3 to 6 weeks.

Then, there is the recent Colorectal Cancer Study from St George’s University of London combining Artesunate followed by curative resection. This was a 14-day, randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled pilot study. Follow-up revealed, of the 11 patients on placebo, six experienced a cancer recurrence within 3.5 years, three of these died. Whereas, only one of the nine patients on Artesunate experienced a recurrence, and none died. Given the very short time on Artesunate, these are fascinating results. 

In all, at least 55 cancer cell lines appear to experience some level of cancer cell death and remission with Artemisinin derivatives… with leukemia, colon, melanoma, breast, renal, CNS, and prostate cancer showing the best results.
 

Additional research papers on the Artemisinin and its derivatives may be found through the University of Washington.

This is exciting information. But do NOT rush out to your local health food store, or onto Amazon.com to purchase Artemisinin. It may not work. Testing on readily available Artemisinin products has revealed capsules containing wide ranges of potency, some with only 5% to 10% active Artemisinin levels. Using these products is most likely a waste of time, money, and your health. There is too little Artemisinin to be effective. This is due to processing, and that different subspecies of Artemesia annua contain different concentrations of Artemisinin. The species with the best yield and quality is found in southwestern China and Vietnam.

Then too, Artemisinin and its derivatives are light sensitive, loosing potency when exposed to light so packaging and storage are very important. And since successful treatment, and side effects are dose-dependent, it is critical to know exactly the amount you’re taking. Therefore, the only Artemisinin family product to consume must be of ‘pharmaceutical grade’ quality. There are several pharmaceutical grade sources for Artemisinin family products, but which form of Artemisinin should be used?

Several derivatives of Artemisinin have been developed since it’s recent discovery in an attempt to improve absorption and stability while reducing toxic effects. Currently, doctors principally use three product forms. Let’s start by looking at each of these.

            Artemisinin – This is the initial product derived directly from the Artemesia annua plant. It is Not Water-Soluble and has poorer absorption than some other forms. When taken, it reaches its peak concentration in the blood in about 40 minutes. The liver quickly breaks it down, and by four hours it has reached the end of its effectiveness.

            Artesunate – This is a semi-synthetic form of Artemisinin. Many sources believe it is the most effective form to use for killing cancer because of its DHA conversion in the body. Artesunate is partially water-soluble. It is available in pill, injection, and IV forms. It has a higher absorption rate, around 61%, but also the shortest activity period.

            Artemether – Another semi-synthetic form of Artemisinin, Artemether lasts longest in the blood and is more fat-soluble. It also exhibits more side effects than the other two products.

Important Note: Because of its higher toxicity, it has been strongly recommended that Artemether dosage not exceed one milligram (mg) per kilogram (kg) of body weight per day (<1mg/kg/day).

Now knowing the different forms of Artemisinin, have a conversation with your health care provider to choose which approach may be best. From my own research and medical discussions, I tend to believe Artesunate to be most effective, though in some instances a blend of the three could be explored.

For all three of these forms, most doctors and researchers recommend they be taken on an empty stomach, away from food. If taken near food consumption, the Artemisinin may bind with iron in the food rendering it ineffective before reaching its cancer target. If taking these products twice a day the best times are just before bed at least three hours after eating, or in the morning an hour before food.

But if you are taking supplements, Vitamin-C, CoQ10, Fish Oil, etc., taking Artesunate or Artemisinin twice a day may be not practical. You see many supplements are strong antioxidants. The Artemisinin family works largely on the principal of oxidation. An antioxidant will counteract this oxidative process. Your supplements most likely stay in your body at least four to six hours. If taken too close to Artemisinin, your supplements will negate its use. Then too, one must consider your nutritional intake. You wouldn’t want to eat say a couple of oranges close to ingesting Artesunate because of the anti-oxidants. And, there are many foods with higher anti-oxidant activity. Some of these include red beans, blueberries, kidney beans, pinto beans, cranberries, artichoke, blackberries, prunes, raspberries, strawberries, apples, pecans, cherries, plumbs, potatoes, black beans, and the list goes on. Then there are all the exotic super food antioxidants. So what’s a person to do? You shouldn’t stop eating healthy. The answer is to simply separate the two. Enjoy your high antioxidant foods and supplements in the morning, and take Artesunate in one dose at night before bed.

With that said, there is another reason to take Artesunate before bed. Cancer cells grow faster at night. This is when protein receptor molecules on the cell’s surface are more active. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) facilitates cell growth, but is suppressed by another receptor during the day. All this cancer growth activity at night makes the cells more vulnerable, requiring more iron for cellular division. Bedtime then becomes the best time to slip in a little Artesunate, Artemisinin or Artemether.

Other points to consider are absorption, and absorption resistance. The Artemisinin family is mostly oil-soluble, not water-soluble. Artesunate’s increased absorption rate comes from its partial water solubility. For best absorption, some doctors are researchers suggest taking the dose with a little whole milk as it has fat to facilitate absorption with few antioxidants.

Then, when you ingest Artemisinin continuously your intestines quickly build up a resistance to absorbing the Artemisinin. In only a few days, amounts of Artemisinin absorbed can drop by over 30%. With continued use, this drop in absorption increases until the Artemisinin attained is far too little to be effective. The easy remedy for this issue is an intestinal reset. When one stops taking Artemisinin for a few days, absorption is believed to return to its necessary levels.

Before we continue with this discussion, I want to add an important warning. There can be serious side effects as a result of taking Artesunate, Artemisinin or Artemether in too large a dose without concurrent monitoring of hemoglobin and other appropriate tests. If you are considering using Artemisinin in any of its forms, it is vital you use it only under the supervision of a medical professional that understands the process, and can perform the safety and evaluation tests required.

With that said, let’s continue by focusing on dosage, and side effects. There are a few studies that provide a hint of dosage for Artesunate and Artemisinin as it relates for cancer treatment, though many studies exist for malaria. Doctors around the World have been using Artemisinin in its three principal forms for malaria treatment for decades. Therefore we do know something about dose tolerance.

Recent research, along with doctors and researchers I have chatted with regarding this subject, generally suggest the following Artesunate protocol for treatment:

            • Prior to use have your iron levels and hemoglobin tested

                        If low - these need to corrected before proceeding

            • Artesunate Dosage:

                        2.5mg to 3.5mg per kilogram of body weight per day

            • Take dose before bed,

                        away from food and antioxidants,

                        with a little milk

            • Take 5 days on then 2 days off for best absorption

            • After 14 days test Hemoglobin Levels –

                                                                                     This is critically important!

                        If no change in Hemoglobin on initial 14-day test–

                                    Talk with doctor about a small dosage increase

                        If Hemoglobin dropping –

                                    Reduce dosage and retest until stability reached

            • Continue for another 14 days – re-check Hemoglobin

                        Once Hemoglobin level is stable – re-check every 30 days

            • Check for liver function

            • Check cancer markers for results at 30 days, and as desired.

Research suggests, if the Artesunate is administered properly, positive results in cancer markers should be seen after the first 28 days. I know cancer survivors who have taken Artesunate for months with desired result starting small, then building. Treatment is without side effects for the most part, though some have experienced issues.

Side Effects are often dose-dependent. When side effects show up they can present as stomach or digestive distress, though in rare instances flu-like symptoms of dizziness, fever, nausea, skin rashes, drowsiness, sweating, even vomiting has occurred. Some people with allergies to ragweed related plants also experience an allergic reaction. In one study with 500 patients, approximately 50% of the participants taking Artemisinin compounds experienced some form of minor side effect with no major side effects during treatment. These side effects though concerning, can be controlled with your doctor’s help. But woe to those who take Artemisinin compounds without counsel and medical supervision.

If taken without regard for proper dosage and monitoring, more serious dose-dependent side effects can exist. There have been rare instances of large doses of Artesunate and Artemisinin attacking bone marrow and red blood cells. Nearly 70% of the iron in your body is stored in red blood cell’s hemoglobin and muscle cells. Too much Artemisinin, Artesunate, or Artemether may begin to attack your hemoglobin, or the bone marrow where red blood cells are made. This can result in anemia or abnormal bone marrow. Too much Artemisinin may also effect to liver.

These situations are thought to be easily avoided by monitoring your hemoglobin level at specific times, then adjusting the dosage of Artesunate, Artemisinin or Artemether as required to a maintain proper hemoglobin level.

Contraindications for the use of Artesunate, Artemisinin or Artemether may include allergy, pregnancy, low weight, anemia, hearing or balance problems, liver disease, or adverse drug interactions. Though the Artemisinin family has been successfully tested to enhance 22 cancer drug therapies, in some drugs like doxorubicin, it makes the drug less effective. Again, be sure to cover drug interactions with your doctor.

Lastly, a warning! If you have recently experienced radiation therapy, do not use Artesunate, Artemisinin or Artemether for up to months. When healthy cells experience radiation they go into a repair mode. This requires extra iron. Adding Artemisinin compounds during the repair time could hinder this cellular repair, disrupting the healing. On the other hand, using Artesunate, Artemisinin or Artemether before radiation has been show to enhance the cancer killing effect of the radiation.

Now you know the most recent facts, where do you go from here?

There are two quality sources for Artesunate, Artemisinin or Artemether providing tested pharmaceutical grade products. The Artesunate suggested in the one treatment scenario above is labeled Hepasunate 50 and comes from a company called Hepalin. Another quality source of Artemisinin comes from a company named Holley Pharmaceuticals. Both of these companies are located in California.

Is Artesunate a treatment for your cancer? Limited research, medical opinions, and stories from cancer survivors indicate it, or a close form, could well be the treatment to put cancer into remission. One doctor indicated he has only witnessed improvement in his cancer patients using this process, and many of his patients have experienced profound healing. Are there some people where it has no effect? This may also be possible considering there are over 100 different types of prostate cancer with slightly different reactions. Each person’s cancer and body is unique though this oxidative process appears to bridge the gaps between many forms of cancer.  

People around the Globe have been taking Artemisinin and its derivatives for years with success for malaria, and now for cancer. New research is being accomplished, though unfocused and grindingly slow. Much research still needs to be done. You see no pharmaceutical wants to fund a cancer drug’s research without financial return. Artesunate, Artemisinin and Artemether are already commercially available at around $3.00 a pill, and new derivatives will not be that much more. So where’s the profit? And without financial research backing for human trials Artesunate, Artemisinin and Artemether will never see FDA approval. Does lack of FDA approval mean that it doesn’t work. Not in the least. It just means that this is one of those promising cures kept from official approval due to our system and lack of funds

This is the First of Five Promising Cancer Treatments. Over the weeks to come I will cover each treatment with the most updated information available. In each case these potential healing processes, due to lack of future financial return, have been excluded from proper research and trials thus eliminating them from FDA approval. At the end of these articles, I will propose several solutions to this problem and hopefully a process to increase cancer remissions and enhance the quality of our lives.

---

Potential New Natural Cancer Treatments - A Seven Part Series

Setting the Stage

The global cost of cancer surpasses $895 Billion annually. More than 500,000 Americans will die this year from cancer. By 2020 U.S. cancer costs the U.S. are expected to reach $157.7 Billion.

Cancer research is proceeding at a furious rate, yet considering over 40 years of  U.S. research at a cost of $90 Billion with less than jubilant results, one wonders if the research is focused in the most effective manner. This year, 2015, the U.S. will spend around $10 Billion in cancer research. Now, what if I told you we could possibly put cancer into remission, or at the very least cut it by 50%, for a cost of around $50 Million? It is possible, but without change in our medical approval system, the research may never be done. Let’s set the stage for today’s reality. 

Now before you say $50 Million is too much money, consider $50 Million is only one half of one percent of the total money to be spent for U.S. cancer research this year. We say we want a cure for cancer, but really? When one is truly committed to a goal, they pull out all stops, leave no stone unturned, and are not dissuaded from following promising paths. 

Or do we really want to cure cancer only if economically profitable, and politically correct? It would appear this is the case, because we ignore research, and results, of potential cancer promising treatments for economic and political reasons.

In the U.S., our political medical system of protocol and drug approval for the treatment of cancer has evolved to exclude any cancer treatment that will not provide a significant financial return for its end manufacturer. This of course, is not stated in print, but is the direct result of a complex system originally designed to protect the public from snake oil peddlers. Unfortunately, the g approval system today has its failings. If for instance I found a plant in my yard, or an easily ingested supplement that cured my cancer, most likely, the FDA would never approve it as a treatment. If not patentable with a healthy return on investment, no one would put up the millions of dollars and 2-5 years of time necessary to obtain FDA approval. There is simply no financial return worth the time and expense.

Then there’s the ongoing conflict between allopathic and naturopathic approaches. Most medical allopathic doctors specialize to the extent there is little time to explore new healing options. Given marginal cancer treatment results, these doctors are often overworked, experiencing a constant flow of returning and new patients. They have little time, or desire, to explore new treatment options, and they are very protective of their proven income streams often relying on less effective but known and understood out-or-date procedures. As an example, currently there exist two new U.S. approved diagnostic procedures for cancer, the ONCOblot Test and the PHI Test. Used together; these two new tests could save our Country $2 Billion in unnecessary prostate biopsy procedures. Unfortunately most urology and cancer specialists either do not acknowledge theses tests exist, or they refuse to use them. But these same doctors are always recommending another biopsy. In the U.S., we perform around 1,000,000 prostate biopsies each year. Approximately 750,000 of these biopsies have negative results effectively making them useless, while placing patients at risk. I have known some prostate cancer patients to suffer through over eight biopsies with negative results. I have also known patients who are convinced their biopsy spread their cancer.

These same allopathic doctors have little training in the naturopathic healing processes, including nutrition and the use of natural substances to affect cancer remission. Many in the allopathic community simply believe their way is the only way, and each doctor believes their specialty to be the best. It is no wonder many in the allopathic medical community look down at treatment suggestions from the naturopathic community. And which medical community do you think controls the FDA, and financial purse strings? In our time this rivalry has become so out of balance that California made it a felony to treat cancer with anything except surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy regardless of results. Once again, if a natural cure for cancer were found tomorrow, it could be illegal to use, a felony in California. Fortunately there are states more open to alternative treatment options.

So here we stand with little hope of finding a natural cure do to lack of funded research and pushback from the allopathic community. Instead, as cancer patients we are offered extraordinarily expensive laboratory drugs, with often times life threatening side effects, radiation that may cause new future cancers, or life threatening and at times ineffective surgery. All this while the public is left to its own devices to find alternative cures. This would appear to be an insurmountable situation, but fortunately for us, technology is somewhat bridging the gap and filling the void.

The Internet, bless its largely uncensored heart, may have come to our rescue. Research, though limited, is being done around the world on alternative cures for cancer. Limited in its extent due to lack of funding, this research is beginning to filter out to cancer patients. Patients who, on their own, or sometimes with support of a courageous naturopath or allopathic doctor, are extending their lives with supplements and natural protocols beyond what surgery, radiation or chemotherapy offer, and without the debilitating side effects of traditional medicine.

From these largely self-directed cancer therapies have come interesting results including cancer stabilization, remissions, even what some individuals call cures. Pouring over the latest research and self-directed results I believe there are at least five exceptionally promising treatments that have shown their worth. One, a combination of these, or a variation of these, most likely will be found as a natural, inexpensive treatment for cancer. At the very least, I believe these treatments will dramatically reduce a patient’s cancer load thus extending life and making other treatment options more effective.

These five treatments include the following:

                           1) Artesunate, Artemisinin & Artemether

                           2) THC & CBD from marijuana

                           3) PSP from Turkey Tail Mushrooms

                           4) EGCG

                           5) Thymogen

These five protocols have received remarkable results if one reviews the limited research and patient stories. In each case, I have read the research and spoken with cancer patients who have had their cancer stabilized, put into remission, or possibly healed with their use. This is why I am creating this discussion, and I do hope it turns into a positive proactive discussion. I believe each of these substances should be fully researched with the goal of approval by the FDA for cancer treatment under a doctor’s care and guidance.

These treatments, and many other good natural or non-patentable treatment options, are already being used on a regular basis for cancer treatment both in the U.S. and throughout the world because they appear to get results. Unfortunately, using these treatments is a bit like the old west. There’s precious little medical oversight, dosage and interaction information, or side effect considerations. There is also minimal information shared regarding results of these treatments. You see, the FDA for cancer does not currently approve these treatments. 

And side effects, though most often dose dependent, can exist. By the way everything you eat and drink can have unwanted or serious side effects. Pending on what you put into your mouth, you will thrive, survive, or cease to exist. For these reasons it’s wise to know the safest limits of any treatment, and have proper medical supervision running necessary concurrent tests keeping you safe.

With this in mind, it is my firm belief, should you decide to explore any of these treatments for cancer, you must have medical backup. As I further discuss each of these treatments, take specific note on the side effect considerations. Then understand every body is unique. What works without side effects for one person may be hazardous, or possibly ineffective for another individual. Find a doctor, a naturopath or allopath skilled in these protocols before use. Keep yourself safe while improving your health and releasing the cancer.

Over the next few weeks I will be posting the most current information on my Blog regarding each of these five treatment options. The final post in this series will propose a solution, and steps to take, to see that these treatments are properly researched, evaluated, and available to the public with medical oversight. I have no connection or ties to any of these treatments. Like all cancer patients, I merely want to find something with better than available results, without the debilitating side effects.

Your feedback concerning on each posts will be greatly appreciated!

So let’s begin. The next post in this series is on: Artesunate, Artemisinin, and Artemether.

For Movember - My Gift For You

With appreciation for all those who support Prostate Cancer Research during Movember, my new book, ‘Release Prostate Cancer Now!’, will be free to download from Amazon.com from November 11, 2015 through November 15, 2015.

As a Prostate Cancer Survivor, Author, and Nutritional Health Coach, I know this book will save lives while helping men make informed decisions concerning their health, diagnosis, and treatment of prostate cancer. More importantly, this book begins a discussion as to why we allow ourselves to experience cancer, and takes a look at new treatment options to improve the quality of life for all men.

Every 2 minutes a loved one, husband, father, grandfather, or coworker will die of prostate cancer. Just in the U.S. 27,540 men will loose their battle this year from this terrible disease. The time has come to take charge of our destiny, to stand up to prostate cancer, and start looking at the problem from different angles.

Movember is one such new approach for prostate and testicular research. From an idea created by two Australians in 2003, it has grown worldwide as a vehicle to create awareness and funding for prostate cancer research. I am especially thankful when I see Matt Lauer (@MLauer), Al Roker (@alroker), and Carson Daly (@Carson Daly) on the TODAY Show stop shaving for ’Movember’ to bring awareness about this disease that takes so many men before their time.

With gratitude for all those who are contributing towards a cure for prostate and testicular cancer, I have decided to give my book away for free. Just go to Amazon.com starting November 11, 2015 through November 15, 2015 and search for ‘Release Prostate Cancer Now!’. Then download your free eBook.

The more men we are able to reach with this information, the more lives will be save. Please share this information with all those you know and follow. Together we can create change by reducing and removing the burden of Prostate Cancer.

Download your eBook for FREE

‘Release Prostate Cancer Now!’ on Amazon.com

November 11^th through November 15^th

3 'Must Have' Prior-to-Biopsy Prostate Tests

Your PSA is rising! You’ve also been getting up at night, way too often, to pee. You decide to see your doctor. A DRE is performed, and although your doctor feels your prostate is a bit enlarged, results are inconclusive. Your doctor suggests a prostate biopsy. But wait, you’ve heard they can be dangerous. Pain, fever, bleeding, infection, and urinary problems are just a few of the possible side effects. What should you do?

This year there will be approximately 1,000,000 effectively blind prostate biopsies in the U.S. Unfortunately around three quarters of these, approximately 750,000, will have negative results. And most likely around 25% to 35% of these will be because the doctor’s needles simply missed the cancer. If you are one who has experienced a negative biopsy, you know it is of little service. In fact it may be harmful. The biopsy targeting process is so inaccurate it may give you false information about being cancer free. It could have simply missed the cancer. So if you have a negative biopsy, how will you know what’s real? Then there is the $3,000 to $6,000 in biopsy medical costs without insurance, and time lost to recovery.

What if there was a better way to feel secure about your results. Recently developed tests may provide the answer. Using the PHI or 4Score and ONCOblot Tests are one way to assure a biopsy is necessary, and may make it more effective. In my opinion, no prostate biopsy should be performed without these tests.

The first test to consider is called the Prostate Health Index, or PHI test in the U.S., and in Europe where it was developed it’s called the Pro-PSA. This blood test combines three markers: PSA, Percent Free (or Free PSA), and a precursor form of PSA called -2proPSA (also termed Pro-PSA or p2PSA). As a precursor to PSA, there is evidence that Pro-PSA is 2.5 to 3 times better connected to prostate cancer than say PSA. Results of these three markers are then run through a sophisticated algorithm to determine the probability prostate cancer exists. Research has shown the PHI test to be ‘Three Times Better’ at predicting prostate cancer than standard PSA tests for men in the 4.0 ng/ml to 10.0 ng/ml range. Test results are provided in PHI ranges with the higher scores more indicative of cancer. Scores from 0 to 24.0 suggest an 11% possibility of cancer where highest scores greater than 55 have a 52.1% of cancer. Since the PHI test has so out-performed the previous combination results of PSA and Percent Free, where used, it has greatly reduced unnecessary biopsies while better detecting more aggressive prostate cancer.

The second prostate cancer test recently coming to the market is the 4KScore Test. This test provides a much better look at the possibility of having Aggressive Prostate Cancer, claiming 94% accuracy in this area. Certainly an important consideration to determine if a biopsy could be necessary. Based on 10 years of research by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, the test takes into account the patient’s age, any previously negative biopsies, if there are any nodules discovered during the DRE, total PSA, free PSA, intact PSA, and measures the amount of hK2 protein in the blood. The protein hK2, also called human kallikrein-related peptide, is made largely in the prostate and responsible for cleavage of pPSA to mature PSA. Since PSA and hK2 express differently, they are considered independent markers. As a general test to determine if one has prostate cancer the original PSA test had an accuracy rate of roughly 55%, that was improved to 65% with the Free/Total PSA test. Now the PHI test results have improved prostate blood test accuracy to better than 75%.

Should you experience a high likelihood of cancer from either, or both, the PHI or the 4KScore Tests, the next step is the ONCOblot Test.

This test detects cancers in their earliest forms, often before symptoms appear. It can find cancers with as few as 2 million cells (about the tip of a pin in size), unlike current scans that need over 4.5 trillion cells to be seen. Imagine finding cancer at its earliest stages when abundant treatment options are still available and effective. This test uses the ENOX2 protein as a marker, and by determining its molecular weight and isoelectric point it can identify not only the type of cancer but also its organ site. With the ONCOblot test nearly all major forms of cancers are screened with a single blood draw including: Prostate, Bladder, Breast, Cervical, Colorectal, Endometrial, Esophageal, Gastric, Hepatocellular, Kidney, Leukemia, Non-Small cell, Lung Small cell, Lymphoma, Melanoma, Mesothelioma, Multiple Myeloma, Myeloma, Ovarian, Pancreatic, Sarcoma,  Squamous Cell, Thyroid, Follicular, Uterine, Papillary, Testicular Germ Cell.

Yes, it is possible to have multiple cancers developing in your body at the same time.

The ONCOblot test reports 99.3% reliability for determining cancer(s) with no false positives, and 96% accuracy in determining the type of and organ site of the cancer. It has been called, “the most sensitive blood test for cancer available today”. Unfortunately it can’t determine the stage of the cancer, the amount of the cancer load, or any spread of the cancer. It just tells you if you have cancer, or not. Yet when considering whether to have a prostate biopsy, determining if you have actually have prostate cancer beforehand can be extremely valuable, even life saving knowledge. The ONCOblot test is approved by the FDA as a ‘Laboratory Developed Test’, but is not yet covered by insurance, as it’s too new. It was first made available to the public in January 2013. Yes, it’s expensive. It currently costs $850 for the lab work. You can also add to this your blood draw, and doctor fees. It’s not a quick test. Once you have sent in the blood draw, it takes approximately 2 to 3 weeks to obtain the results. For more information contact ONCOblot Labs at: 972-510-7773 or email your questions to: info@oncoblotlabs.com.

Together these 3 pre-biopsy tests paint a comprehensive picture of your prostate’s health. Ask your doctor to research the ONCOblot test. Have your doctor put in a request for Medicare approval. Of course, if you’re like the tens of thousands of men who just can’t wait any longer for the frozen wheels of government to turn, have your doctor do the blood draw, and ship the sample to ONCOblot for evaluation. Though it will cost you now, you could end up saving considerable time, money, resources, and quality of life in the long run.

One final note: Should all these three tests come out positive for cancer, then it’s time to consider a prostate biopsy. Again, you will want to handle the biopsy in the most professional and accurate manner possible. At present time, this is accomplished by using the Fusion Biopsy combining both MRI and Ultrasound to provide the most accurate core sampling placement possible. Because if a blind biopsy misses the area where cancer is located it’s really like having no biopsy at all, oh, except for the costs, health risks, and aggravation.

And if you want another reason to do these tests pre-biopsy, in addition to saving you an unnecessary biopsy, over the year they will save our Country $1.5 Billion to $2 Billion in unnecessary medical costs.