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	<title>Dr. Tori Hudson, N.D. &#187; Cancer Prevention</title>
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	<description>Naturopathic Physician, Author, Educator and Researcher</description>
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		<copyright>Copyright &#xA9; Dr. Tori Hudson, N.D. 2010 </copyright>
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		<itunes:summary>Naturopathic Physician, Author, Educator and Researcher</itunes:summary>
		<itunes:author>Dr. Tori Hudson, N.D.</itunes:author>
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			<itunes:name>Dr. Tori Hudson, N.D.</itunes:name>
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		<title>Vitamin D deficiency may be associated with poor outcomes in breast cancer patients</title>
		<link>http://drtorihudson.com/cancer-prevention/breast-cancer-prevention/vitamin-d-deficiency-may-be-associated-with-poor-outcomes-in-breast-cancer-patients/</link>
		<comments>http://drtorihudson.com/cancer-prevention/breast-cancer-prevention/vitamin-d-deficiency-may-be-associated-with-poor-outcomes-in-breast-cancer-patients/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2009 22:33:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Tori Hudson, N.D.</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Breast Cancer Prevention]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vitamin D]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://drtorihudson.com/cancer-prevention/breast-cancer-prevention/vitamin-d-deficiency-may-be-associated-with-poor-outcomes-in-breast-cancer-patients/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[This prospective study of 512 women with early breast cancer evaluated the role of serum vitamin D levels as a potential factor influencing breast cancer prognosis. 
The average age was 50 and the average vitamin D levels was 58.1 nmol/L. Vitamin D levels were deficient (&#60;50 nmol/L) in 192 women, insufficient (50 to 72 nmol/L) [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://drtorihudson.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/clip_image0021.jpg"><img title="clip_image002" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="257" alt="clip_image002" hspace="12" src="http://drtorihudson.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/clip_image002_thumb1.jpg" width="365" align="left" border="0" /></a>This prospective study of 512 women with early breast cancer evaluated the role of serum vitamin D levels as a potential factor influencing breast cancer prognosis. </p>
<p>The average age was 50 and the average vitamin D levels was 58.1 nmol/L. Vitamin D levels were deficient (&lt;50 nmol/L) in 192 women, insufficient (50 to 72 nmol/L) in 197 women and sufficient (&gt; 72 nmol/L in 123 women. The average follow-up was 11.6 years with 116 women having distant recurrences and 106 women who died. Vitamin D levels were significantly lower in women with high grade tumors. Those women with vitamin D deficiency had an increased risk of distant recurrence and of dying, compared with those women who had sufficient serum vitamin D levels.</p>
<p><b>Commentary:</b> This study is one more reason to test vitamin D levels- I would recommend it for all current or past breast cancer patients. In terms of using vitamin D levels to determine the initial risk for breast cancer, the evidence has been mixed, with some showing an association between latitude and risk of breast cancer, some showing an inverse relationship between vitamin D intake and breast density (a strong risk factor for breast cancer), but other studies showing vitamin D intake or blood levels of vitamin D inconsistently related to risk/incidence.</p>
<p>There have been some other attempts to use vitamin D levels as a prognostic indicator for breast cancer and mortality. Low vitamin D levels have been associated with increased breast cancer mortality and have also been shown to be significantly lower in women with locally advanced or metastatic disease compared with those women who have early breast cancers. Taking a vitamin D supplement to increase blood levels of vitamin D is one of the least expensive, safe strategies to reduce the risk of recurrence of breast cancer, as stated in this current study. For the rest of us… the research is full of good news about vitamin D and our health with studies demonstrating that higher blood levels of vitamin D is associated with lower rates of heart disease, ovarian cancer, multiple sclerosis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, bacterial vaginosis, and as mentioned, breast cancer.</p>
<p>It should be noted that the current studies, and in fact many studies, report vitamin D levels in the units of nmol/L. Other studies report ng/ml. This is a very important difference. It is important to compare one’s lab unit results for vitamin D levels with the proper target number and unit used. For reference, 75 nmol/L is equal to 30 ng/mL. In the current study, those women who had a vitamin D deficiency and reported as &lt; 50 nmol/L would be equivalent to &lt; 20 ng/ml.</p>
<p><b>References</b></p>
<p>Goodwin P, Ennis M, Pritchard K, et al. Prognostic effects of 25hydroxyvitamin D levels in early breast cancer. J Clinical Oncology 2009;27(23): 3757-3763</p>
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		<title>Calcium plus Vitamin D supplementation and risk of breast cancer</title>
		<link>http://drtorihudson.com/bone-health/calcium/calcium-plus-vitamin-d-supplementation-and-risk-of-breast-cancer/</link>
		<comments>http://drtorihudson.com/bone-health/calcium/calcium-plus-vitamin-d-supplementation-and-risk-of-breast-cancer/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 04 Jan 2009 17:06:43 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Tori Hudson, N.D.</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Breast Cancer Prevention]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Calcium]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vitamin D]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://drtorihudson.com/general/calcium-plus-vitamin-d-supplementation-and-risk-of-breast-cancer/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[36,282 postmenopausal women were enrolled in a Women&#8217;s Health Initiative clinical trial to determine the effects of calcium and vitamin D on the incidence of hip fracture. Invasive breast cancer was a secondary outcome measure. Patients were randomly assigned to 1000 mg of calcium with 400 IU of vitamin D3 daily, or placebo for an [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>36,282 postmenopausal women were enrolled in a Women&#8217;s Health Initiative clinical trial to determine the effects of calcium and vitamin D on the incidence of hip fracture. Invasive breast cancer was a secondary outcome measure. Patients were randomly assigned to 1000 mg of calcium with 400 IU of vitamin D3 daily, or placebo for an average of 7.0 years. Mammograms, breast exams, serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were assessed in a nested case-control study of 1067 breast cancer cases and 1067 controls. The risk of breast cancer associated with random assignment to calcium with vitamin D3 was estimated using a mathematical model. The incidence of invasive breast cancer was similar in the calcium with vitamin D group compared to the placebo group, and baseline 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were not associated with breast cancer risk after adjusting for body mass index and physical activity. These results do not support a relationship between total vitamin D supplemental intake and 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels with breast cancer risk.</p>
<p><strong>Commentary </strong></p>
<p>This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of daily supplementation of 1000 mg of elemental calcium with 400 IU vitamin D3 had no effect on the incidence of breast cancer. Some observational studies have demonstrated an association between higher calcium and vitamin D intake and reductions in breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women, while others have not. Studies in postmenopausal women have also been mixed in showing an association with lowered breast cancer risk in those with higher serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D. Several thoughts regarding these mixed results are worth considering: 1) Different thresholds of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D are used to assess associations and it may be that a higher threshold (52 nmol/L says some research; 75 nmol/L says other research) is needed to show an association. 2) Higher doses of vitamin D may be needed to demonstrate consistent results. 3) The doses of vitamin D used in different trials are not consistent. 4) The seven year duration of the current study may be insufficient given the latency of breast cancer. 5) Results may be confounded by lean women vs. overweight or obese women, recreational activity and sunlight exposure.</p>
<p>Given the wide variety of preventive effects of vitamin D supplementation, the multiple disease reduction benefits associated with higher serum levels, and the selected benefits on intervention with supplementation, for now, I will continue to be assertive in vitamin D dosing. The list of benefits and potential benefits spans so many diseases (heart disease, hypertension, peripheral vascular disease, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, fractures, autoimmune diseases, depression, insulin resistance, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, colon cancer), that it remains compelling to recommend one of the most economical and safe supplements currently available.</p>
<p><strong>References</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Chlebowski R, Johnson K, Kooperberg C, et al. Calcium plus vitamin D supplementation and the risk of breast cancer. J Natl Cancer Inst 2008 100: 1561.</li>
</ul>
<p><font face="Arial" size="2"><font face="Arial" size="2" /> </font></p>
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		<title>More on Vitamin D, Bone Health and Cancer Prevention</title>
		<link>http://drtorihudson.com/bone-health/more-on-vitamin-d-bone-health-and-cancer-prevention-2/</link>
		<comments>http://drtorihudson.com/bone-health/more-on-vitamin-d-bone-health-and-cancer-prevention-2/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 28 Feb 2008 08:42:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Tori Hudson, N.D.</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Bone Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Breast Cancer Prevention]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vitamin D]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://drtorihudson.com/?p=57</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[In a population-based study, 1180 Caucasian women older than 55, were randomized to receive a calcium supplement ,  a calcium supplement plus 1100 IU of vitamin D (cholecalciferol), or a daily placebo.  Health status and compliance to the regimen were assessed every 6 months over 4 years and serum vitamin D was measured [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img title="Bone Health" src="http://drtorihudson.com/files/bone_health.jpg" alt="Bone Health" width="187" height="142" align="right" />In a population-based study, 1180 Caucasian women older than 55, were randomized to receive a calcium supplement ,  a calcium supplement plus 1100 IU of vitamin D (cholecalciferol), or a daily placebo.  Health status and compliance to the regimen were assessed every 6 months over 4 years and serum vitamin D was measured at baseline and annually.  1024 women completed the study.  The purpose of the analysis was to determine the efficacy of calcium by itself and calcium plus vitamin D in reducing the all-cancer risk in postmenopausal women.</p>
<p>Fifty women developed cancers other than skin cancer.  The risk for cancer in the calcium-plus vitamin-D group was less than half that in the placebo group (RR 0.4; P=0.013).  The calcium only group had no statistically significant risk reduction.  Researchers adjusted for the possibility that cancers detected during the first year of the study, had been present but silent at baseline, and analyzed these separately.   Relative risk for cancer in the calcium/vitamin D group was lower than in the placebo control subjects 0.2 (P&lt; 0.005), and the risk reduction for the calcium only group was not statistically significant.</p>
<p>Women in the calcium plus vitamin D group had higher serum vitamin D levels that correlated with lower cancer risk, both at baseline and at one year.  Adherence to the study doses was 86%.</p>
<p>Lappe JM, et al.  <a title="Abstract link" href="http://www.ajcn.org/cgi/content/abstract/85/6/1586" target="_blank">Vitamin D and calcium supplementation reduces cancer risk: Results of a randomized trial.</a> <em>Am J Clin Nut</em> 2007; Jun;85(6):1586-1591</p>
<p><strong>Commentary:</strong> The only other randomized trial of vitamin D and cancer was the Women&#8217;s Health Initiative, which used a lower dose of vitamin D (400 IU) and women with a lower baseline vitamin D status. The WHI reported no significant effect of the vitamin D intervention on colorectal cancer incidence but did observe a significant inverse relation between baseline vitamin D levels and cancer risk, as in this study.  It&#8217;s reassuring to see that the benefits of higher than recommended dosing of vitamin D is catching on. It is estimated that about 60% of women in the U.S. are vitamin D deficient, no what part of the country they live in.  The current adult daily recommendations for vitamin D in women 51 to 70 is<br />
400 IU -800 IU per day.  Supplement doses up to 2000 IU are considered safe and to be without significant risk for adverse events.  Many practitioners are advising even higher doses, but I would recommend this only after assessment for medical need, serum testing, and evaluation for risk of side effects.</p>
<p><strong>Calcium and Vitamin D Intake and Risk for Breast Cancer</strong></p>
<p>The relationship between vitamin D and breast cancer was prospectively assessed among 10,000 premenopausal and 20,000 postmenopausal women who were enrolled in the Women&#8217;s Health Study.  Intake of calcium and vitamin D was determined from self-reported questionnaires about diet and vitamin use.</p>
<p><img title="US Map" src="http://drtorihudson.com/files/map.jpg" alt="US Map" width="206" height="143" align="left" />During an average follow-up of 10 years, the overall incidence of invasive breast cancer was 2.6% among premenopausal women and 3.6% among postmenopausal women.  Among premenopausal women, the hazard ratio for developing breast cancer was 0.61 for women in the highest versus lowest quintiles of calcium use and 0.65 for vitamin D intake.  No benefit was seen for these nutrient intakes and breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women.</p>
<p>Lin J et al.  <a title="Abstract link" href="http://archinte.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/short/167/10/1050" target="_blank">Intakes of calcium and vitamin D and breast cancer risk in women.</a> <em>Arch Intern Med</em> 2007, May 28; 167(10):1050-1059.</p>
<p><strong>Commentary:</strong> This is a very large, prospective study, which once again demonstrates important findings for vitamin D, at least for premenopausal women.  A higher intake of calcium and vitamin D was associated with a lower risk for breast cancer among premenopausal women, but not for postmenopausal women.  While the hazard ratio was large, the absolute reduction in risk was small.  Being a population based study using only self-reported questionnaires, the usefulness of the findings in this study are limited, especially since the amount of vitamin D and calcium  was  recorded only once at baseline.  In addition, there could easily be other variables that explain the findings. Nonetheless, it supports the trend to advise women about adequate intakes of calcium and vitamin D, both in the diet and in supplement form.</p>
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		<title>Dietary Intake and Outcomes after Breast Cancer</title>
		<link>http://drtorihudson.com/general/nutrition/dietary-intake-and-outcomes-after-breast-cancer/</link>
		<comments>http://drtorihudson.com/general/nutrition/dietary-intake-and-outcomes-after-breast-cancer/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:08:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Tori Hudson, N.D.</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Breast Cancer Prevention]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nutrition]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://drtorihudson.com/?p=54</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Womenâ€™s Healthy Eating and Living (WHEL) study is a multi-center, randomized controlled trial studying a total of 3088 women diagnosed with early stage breast cancers &#8211;stage I-IIIa who were diagnosed within the previous four years. Subjects in the WHEL study were randomized into either a treatment group, whoâ€™s diet consisted of; a daily dose [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img width="144" height="144" align="right" src="http://drtorihudson.com/files/br_cancer.jpg" />The Womenâ€™s Healthy Eating and Living (WHEL) study is a multi-center, randomized controlled trial studying a total of 3088 women diagnosed with early stage breast cancers &#8211;stage I-IIIa who were diagnosed within the previous four years. Subjects in the WHEL study were randomized into either a treatment group, whoâ€™s diet consisted of; a daily dose of 5 servings of vegetables, 16 oz of vegetable juice, 3 servings of fruit, 30 g of fiber and 15% to 20% of energy intake from fat and a control group which consumed a regular diet of 5 servings of vegetables and fruit, more than 20 g of fiber and less than 30% total energy intake from fat.</p>
<p>The main outcome was a recurrence of breast cancer,  a new primary breast cancer, or death from any cause.  After an average follow-up of a 7.3 years , there were no differences in breast cancer events or all-cause mortality between women in the two dietary groups despite the treatment group eating 65% more vegetables, 25% more fruit, 30% more fiber and 13% less fat.</p>
<p>16.7% of the women in the dietary intervention group developed an invasive breast cancer event and 10.1% died vs. 16.9% in the regular diet group with 10.3% having died.</p>
<blockquote><p>Pierce J, et al. Influence of a diet very high in vegetables, fruits, and fiber and low in fat on prognosis following treatment for breast cancer.  <em>JAMA</em> 2007;298(3):289-298.</p></blockquote>
<p><strong>Commentary:</strong>  This is a discouraging bit of news from those of us who work with breast cancer survivors advising them on dietary changes.  It can be noted that in the WHEL study, women who had undergone chemotherapy were not included.  It may be that we would see better results in women receiving chemotherapy undergoing dietary changes vs. those that donâ€™t.  In addition, with a one on one clinical practice, we would often achieve better compliance with more success in eating more vegetables, fruit, fiber and less fat.  Other reports on dietary fat show that those studies that reduce fat intake to 15% -20% of total calories consumed, may not achieve results, while studies that reduce fat intake to 10%of calories and focus on fish, seeds, nuts and olive oil as a source of fats, do in fact bode well for future breast health.  The current WHEL study also failed to achieve two important results in the dietary intervention group &#8212; there was no reduction in total calories and no difference in weight loss, two important  influences on breast health.</p>
<p>While many dietary factors have been shown to have influence on risks of breast cancer in observational studies, these relatively small changes in vegetable, fruit and fat intake in the WHEL study, did not make much difference. The message here:  we need to eat even more vegetables and fruits, lower fat to 10% and focus on the good fats, eat less in general and do a better job of managing our weight.  Sighâ€¦..</p>
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		<title>More on Vitamin D, Bone Health and Cancer Prevention</title>
		<link>http://drtorihudson.com/general/more-on-vitamin-d-bone-health-and-cancer-prevention/</link>
		<comments>http://drtorihudson.com/general/more-on-vitamin-d-bone-health-and-cancer-prevention/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 26 Nov 2007 06:21:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Tori Hudson, N.D.</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Bone Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bone Loss]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Breast Cancer Prevention]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Calcium]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[General]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prevention]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vitamin D]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://drtorihudson.com/?p=51</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
In a population-based study, 1180 Caucasian women older than 55, were randomized to receive a daily placebo, calcium or calcium plus 1000 IU of vitamin D (cholecalciferol). Â Health status and compliance to the regimen were assessed every 6 months over 4 years and serum vitamin D was measured at baseline and annually. 1024 women [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>
<img src="http://drtorihudson.com/files/calc.jpg" style="width: 165px; height: 107px; float: right; margin-left: 1em; ">In a population-based study, 1180 Caucasian women older than 55, were randomized to receive a daily placebo, calcium or calcium plus 1000 IU of vitamin D (cholecalciferol). Â Health status and compliance to the regimen were assessed every 6 months over 4 years and serum vitamin D was measured at baseline and annually. 1024 women actually completed the study. Â
</div>
<div>
<br class=webkit-block-placeholder>
</div>
<div>
Fifty women developed cancers that were not skin cancers. Â The risk for cancer in the calcium-plus vitamin-D group was less than half that in the placebo group (RR 0.4; P=0.013). Â The calcium only group had no statistically significant risk reduction. Â Researches adjusted for the possibility that cancers detected during the first year of the study, had been present but silent, at baseline and analyzed these separately. Â Â
</div>
<div>
<br class=webkit-block-placeholder>
</div>
<div>
 Women in the calcium plus vitamin D group had higher serum vitamin D levels that correlated with lower cancer risk, both at baseline and at one year. Adherence to the study doses was 86%.
</div>
<div>
<br class=webkit-block-placeholder>
</div>
<blockquote class=webkit-indent-blockquote style="MARGIN:0 0 0 40px; BORDER:none; PADDING:0px"><p>
  Lappe J, et al. Â Vitamin D and calcium supplementation reduces cancer risk: Results of a randomized trial. Â <i>Am J Clin Nut </i>2007; une 85: 1586-1591
</p></blockquote>
<div>
<br class=webkit-block-placeholder>
</div>
<div>
<b>Commentary:</b> Â Itâ€™s reassuring to see that the benefits of higher than recommended dosing of vitamin D is catching on. Â Many women in the U.S. are vitamin D deficient- estimated to be about 60%, no matter where they live. Â The current adult daily recommendations Â for vitamin D in women 51 to 70 isÂ 400 IU -800 iu per day. Â Doses up to 2000 IU are considered safe and to be without significant risk for adverse events. Many practitioners are advising even higher doses, but I would recommend this only after assessment for medical need, serum testing, and evaluation for risk of side effects. Â
</div>
<div>
  <br class=webkit-block-placeholder>
</div>
<div>
  <br class=webkit-block-placeholder>
</div>
<div>
<b>Calcium and Vitamin D Intake and Risk for Breast CancerÂ </b>
</div>
<div>
  <br class=webkit-block-placeholder>
</div>
<div>
The relationship between vitamin D and breast cancer was prospectively assessed among 10,000 premenopausal and 20,000 postmenopausal women who were enrolled in the Womenâ€™s Health Study. Â Intake of calcium and vitamin D was determined from self-reported questionnaires about diet and vitamin use.
</div>
<div>
  <br class=webkit-block-placeholder>
</div>
<div>
During an average follow-up of 10 years, the overall incidence of invasive breast cancer was 2.6% among premenopausal women and 3.6% among postmenopausal women. Â Among premenopausal women, the risk of developing breast cancer was significantly lower for Â women in the highest versus lowest quintiles of calcium use and 0.65 for vitamin D intake. Â No benefit was seen for these nutrient intakes and breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women.
</div>
<div>
<br class=webkit-block-placeholder>
</div>
<blockquote class=webkit-indent-blockquote style="MARGIN:0 0 0 40px; BORDER:none; PADDING:0px"><p>
  Lin J et al. Â Intakes of calcium and vitamin D and breast cancer risk in women.Â <i>Arch Intern Med</i> 2007, May 28; 167:1050-1059.
</p></blockquote>
<div>
  <br class=webkit-block-placeholder>
</div>
<div>
 <b>Commentary:</b> This is a very large, prospective study which once again demonstrates important findings for vitamin D, at least for premenopausal women. Â A higher intake of calcium and vitamin D was associated with a lower risk for breast cancer among premenopausal women, but not for postmenopausal women. Â While the numbers were statistically significant, Â the absolute reduction in risk was small. Â Being a population based study using only self-reported questionnaires, the usefulness of the findings in this study are limited, especially since the amount was only recorded only once at baseline. Â In addition, there could easily be other variables that explain the findings. Â None the less, it supports the trend to advise women about adequate intakes of calcium and vitamin D, both in the diet and in supplement form.
</div>
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		<title>Black Cohosh associated with breast cancer risk reduction</title>
		<link>http://drtorihudson.com/menopause/black-cohosh-associated-with-breast-cancer-risk-reduction-2/</link>
		<comments>http://drtorihudson.com/menopause/black-cohosh-associated-with-breast-cancer-risk-reduction-2/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 01 Oct 2007 16:28:08 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Tori Hudson, N.D.</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Black Cohosh]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Breast Cancer Prevention]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Menopause]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://drtorihudson.com/?p=47</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[This population-based cased-control study in Philadelphia consisted of 949 breast cancer cases and 1,524 controls.  Herbal supplements including black cohosh, ginseng and red clover were the most prevalent preparations.  After adjusting for potential confounding factors, black cohosh use was associated with a 61 percent reduction in the risk of breast cancer with an [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img width="144" height="72" align="right" src="http://drtorihudson.com/files/pa_bc_coalition.gif" />This population-based cased-control study in Philadelphia consisted of 949 breast cancer cases and 1,524 controls.  Herbal supplements including black cohosh, ginseng and red clover were the most prevalent preparations.  After adjusting for potential confounding factors, black cohosh use was associated with a 61 percent reduction in the risk of breast cancer with an odds ratio of 0.39, 95% CI: 0.22-0.70.  The breast protective effect was similar for a specific black cohosh preparation, Remifemin, odds ratio 0.47, 95%, CI: 0.27-0.82.</p>
<blockquote><p>Rebbeck T, Troxel A, Norman S, et al.  <a target="_blank" title="A retrospective case-control study of the use of hormone-related supplements and association with breast cancer" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?db=pubmed&#038;uid=17205521&#038;cmd=showdetailview&#038;indexed=google">A retrospective case-control study of the use of hormone-related supplements and association with breast cancer.</a>  <em>Int. J. Cancer</em> 2007; 120:1523-1528.</p></blockquote>
<p><strong>Comments:</strong>  Women included in the study were those with a first primary, invasive, breast cancer of stage I, II, III, of any grade and any tissue type (ductal, lobular, mucinous, papillary, mixed.)  Women with ductal carcinoma in situ or lobular carcinoma in situ were excluded.</p>
<p><img align="left" title="breast cancer scan" alt="breast cancer scan" src="http://drtorihudson.com/files/bc_scan.jpg" />This is not the first study that has indicated anti-proliferative, anti-estrogenic effects of black cohosh on breast cancer cells, especially estrogen receptor (ER) positive breast cancer cells.  In the current study, black cohosh and/or Remifemin persisted irrespective of ER status.  On the other hand, the effect of black cohosh and/or Remifemin varied by progesterone receptor (PR) status.  The effect was significant in PR positive tumors but not in PR negative tumors.  This suggests that PR status  may be related to the protective effects of black cohosh on the breast.</p>
<p>While the researchers in this study, incorrectly describe black cohosh as containing phytoestrogens, this study is yet one more positive finding on the safety of black cohosh for breast cancer survivors with menopausal symptoms.</p>
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		<title>Breast Cancer Incidence Decrease in 2003</title>
		<link>http://drtorihudson.com/prevention/breast-cancer-incidence-decrease-in-2003/</link>
		<comments>http://drtorihudson.com/prevention/breast-cancer-incidence-decrease-in-2003/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 31 Jul 2007 06:19:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Tori Hudson, N.D.</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Breast Cancer Prevention]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cancer Prevention]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hormone Replacement Therapy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prevention]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://drtorihudson.com/?p=43</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[One of the more newsworthy items of late, has been the decline of breast cancer seen in 2003.   The rate of breast cancer in women in the U.S. fell significantly by 6.7% in 2003, according to data from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) registries.  Data from 2004, showed a leveling off, with [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>One of the more newsworthy items of late, has been the decline of breast cancer seen in 2003.   The rate of breast cancer in women in the U.S. fell significantly by 6.7% in 2003, according to data from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) registries.  Data from 2004, showed a leveling off, with no real additional decrease.  The decrease, starting in mid- 2003, was only in women who were 50 years of age or older, and was more evident in estrogen-receptor-positive cancers (14.7%; 95% CI, 11.6 to 17.4)  The decreases were similar for localized disease, more advanced disease, and were more evident in primary breast cancers but not in contralateral second primary or later breast cancers.</p>
<p><img width="200" height="119" align="left" title="cancer center map" alt="cancer center map" src="http://drtorihudson.com/files/cancer_centers.jpg" />Comparing the incidence rates in 2001 with the rates in 2004, but not including this rapidly changing period from mid-2002 to mid- 2003, showed that the annual decrease in breast cancer incidence was only present in women who were 50 or older.  During that time period, there was an increase of 1.3% in breast cancer incidence in women under age 50 (95% CI, -3.1 to 5.8), a decrease of 11.8% for women between 50 and 69 (95% CI, 9.2 to 14.5) , and a decrease of 11.1% for women 70 and older (95% CI 7.9 to 14.2).   The compelling question is, why this sharp drop, followed by a stabilization at a lower rate in women 50 and older?</p>
<p>As best I can tell, there are potentially, several explanations:  1. A decline in hormone use since the first report of the Womenâ€™s Health Initiative (WHI).  2.  A decrease in the rate of screening mammograms. 3.  A possible decrease in the rates of annual exams in women 50 and older  due to discontinuing HRT 4.  An error in the NCI Surveilance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) data.  5.  A possible general decrease in the rates of cancers in general  6.  Some possible positive influence on the rates of breast cancer.  A little closer examination of each of these is important.</p>
<p>One possible explanation that has been posed, is a reporting flaw in the SEER data.  This is considered to be unlikely due to there being no significant change in the incidence of any other cancer other than breast cancer during this period.  In addition, all nine SEER registries showed the same trend.</p>
<p><img width="155" height="190" align="right" title="mammogram" alt="mammogram" src="http://drtorihudson.com/files/mammogram.jpg" />A feasible explanation might be related to a major decrease in the rate of screening mammography.  For 2003, there was a decrease of 3.2% in the rate of screening mammograms between the ages of 50 and 65, compared with the year 2000.  Another aspect of this influence, might be that there could be a change in the frequency and pattern of screening mammograms in women who formerly used hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and now do not.  Women who receive HRT, are likely to also receive annual mammograms.  Once they discontinue HRT, might they also discontinue doing annual mammograms, as well as go to the doctor less frequently for breast exams?  Basically, breast cancers going undetected.  Although I do think that in fact, women who discontinue HRT, do initially delay their annual screening mammograms and visits to the doctors, we have no published data showing a decrease in mammographic screening in women who discontinue HRT.  In addition, women who discontinue HRT, who are 50 and older, are also disinclined to receive annual exams, especially now since they are being told they do not need an annual pap smear.</p>
<p>The decrease in breast cancer incidence began in mid-2002, and occurred shortly after the publication of the first report of the Womenâ€™s Health Initiative in July of 2002, which demonstrated a slight increase in the risk of breast cancer after 4 years of use.   By the end of 2002, the use of conventional HRT, declined by approximately 38% in the U.S.  and there were 20 million fewer prescriptions written in 2003 than in 2002.  ,    The total number of prescriptions for Premarin and PremPro, the two most common forms of HRT, saw a steep decline starting in 2002, and especially in 2003.  62 million prescriptions were written in 2000, 61 million in 2001, 47 million in 2002, 27 million in 2003, 21 million in 2004, and 18 million in 2005.    The periods of sharpest decline appeared to start in 2002 and then also in 2003.</p>
<p><img width="194" height="127" align="left" title="vitamin d" alt="vitamin d" src="http://drtorihudson.com/files/vit_d.jpg" />What about some positive influence on the rates of breast cancer?  Could there have been something that emerged starting in 2003?  Drugs such as tamoxifen, raloxifene, nonsteroidal antiinflammatories and statins have certainly increased dramatically, and there is some evidence for the beneficial effects of these medications on the overall risk of breast cancer.  However, it appears that none of these medications had a significant increased change in use during the period from 2000 to 2004.  Increased utilization of vitamin D or green tea or soy products might also deserve some thought. While there is some data as to the potential positive influence of these on breast health and even reducing the risk of breast cancer,   we do not have any data on increased utilization of these products distinctly in this period of 2002 to 2003.</p>
<p>Women who were in the Womenâ€™s Health Initiative PremPro arm when the study was discontinued, are being followed for clinical outcomes, and a report of this will likely be published later in 2007.  This report will shed additional evidence related to the influence of discontinuation of HRT on the incidence of breast cancer.</p>
<p>Experts on the topic of HRT and breast cancer are hesitating to render any final opinion on this report while also admitting that â€œthe ultimate understanding of the effect of cessation of hormone-replacement therapy will be complex; it will probably depend on more than one mechanism and will be affected in different ways by various forms of postmenopausal hormone-replacement therapy.â€</p>
<p>Additional time will reveal another interesting aspect of this:  will the appearance of clinically detectable tumors by mammography  only be delayed, rather than an actual long term reduction in breast cancer incidence.  Removing HRT may only slightly or temporarily slow the growth of tumors that already exist. If this is the case, then as the use of HRT stabilizes at a certain utilization rate, then the incidence of breast cancer would rise again.</p>
<p>It is my humble opinion that since the WHI and many other studies demonstrate only a slight increase in the rates of breast cancer after combined conjugated equine estrogens and progestins for  5 years or more, that any decrease in the rates of breast cancer seen in 2003, immediately post WHI, is associated with withdrawal of an agent that can slightly increase the growth of an already pre-existing tumor.</p>
<ol>
<li>Ravdin P, Cronin K, Howlander N, Chlebowski R, Berry D. A sharp decrease in breast ancer incidence in the United States in 2003. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2006; 100: Suppl: S2, a abstract.</li>
<li>Ravdin P, Cronin K, Howlader N, et al.  The decrease in breast-cancer incidence in 2003 in the United States.  NEJM 2007;365;16:1670-1674.</li>
<li>Rossouw J, Anderson G, Prentice R, et al.  Risks and benefits of estrogen plus progestin in healthy postmenopausal women: principal results from the Womenâ€™s Health Initiative randomized  controlled trial.  JAMA 2002; 288: 321-333.</li>
<li>Buist D, Newton K, Miglioretti D, et al.  Hormone therapy prescribing patterns in the United States.  Obstet Bynecol 2004; 104:1042-1050.</li>
<li>Hersh A, Stefanick M, Stafford R.  National use of postmenopausal hormone therapy: annual trends and response to recent evidence.  JAMA 2004;291:47-53.</li>
<li>Drug Topics.  Drugs by units in the United States ion specific years.  (Accessed March 29, 2007, at http://www.drugtopics.com/drugtopics/.)</li>
</ol>
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		<title>Black Cohosh associated with breast cancer risk reduction</title>
		<link>http://drtorihudson.com/botanicals/black-cohosh-associated-with-breast-cancer-risk-reduction/</link>
		<comments>http://drtorihudson.com/botanicals/black-cohosh-associated-with-breast-cancer-risk-reduction/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 17 May 2007 20:44:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Tori Hudson, N.D.</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Black Cohosh]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Botanicals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cancer Prevention]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prevention]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://drtorihudson.com/?p=38</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Rebbeck T, Troxel A, Norman S, et al.  A retrospective case-control study of the use of hormone-related supplements and association with breast cancer.  Int. J. Cancer 2006; 120:1523-1528.
This population-based cased-control study in Philadelphia consisted of 949 breast cancer cases and 1,524 controls.  Herbal supplements including Black Cohosh, ginseng and red clover were [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Rebbeck T, Troxel A, Norman S, et al.  A retrospective case-control study of the use of hormone-related supplements and association with breast cancer.  <em>Int. J. Cancer</em> 2006; 120:1523-1528.</p>
<p><img width="128" vspace="3" height="134" align="right" src="http://drtorihudson.com/files/blackcohosh.jpg" />This population-based cased-control study in Philadelphia consisted of 949 breast cancer cases and 1,524 controls.  Herbal supplements including Black Cohosh, ginseng and red clover were the most prevalent preparations.  After adjusting for potential confounding factors, Black Cohosh use was associated with a 61 percent reduction in the risk of breast cancer with an odds ratio of 0.39, 95% CI: 0.22-0.70.  The breast protective effect was similar for a specific Black Cohosh preparation, Remifemin, odds ratio 0.47, 95%, CI: 0.27-0.82.</p>
<p>Comments:  Women included in the study were those with a first primary, invasive, breast cancer of stage I, II, III, any grade and any tissue type (ductal, lobular, mucinous, papillary, mixed.)  Women with ductal carcinoma in situ or lobular carcinoma in situ were excluded.  This is not the first study that has indicated antiproliferative, antiestrogenic effects of Black Cohosh on  breast cancer cells, especially estrogen receptor (ER) + breast cancer cells.  In the current study, Black Cohosh and/or Remifemin persisted irrespective of ER status.  On the other hand, the effect of Black Cohosh and/or Remifemin varied by progesterone receptor (PR) status.  The effect was significant in PR positive tumors but not in PR negative tumors.  This suggests that PR activity may be related to the protective effects of Black Cohosh on the breast.</p>
<p>While the researchers in this study, incorrectly describe Black Cohosh as containing phytoestrogens, this study is yet one more positive finding on the safety of Black Cohosh for breast cancer survivors with menopause symptoms.</p>
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		<title>Green Tea and Womenâ€™s Health</title>
		<link>http://drtorihudson.com/prevention/green-tea-and-women%e2%80%99s-health/</link>
		<comments>http://drtorihudson.com/prevention/green-tea-and-women%e2%80%99s-health/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 15 Jan 2007 00:57:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Tori Hudson, N.D.</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Cancer Prevention]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nutrition]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prevention]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://drtorihudson.com/?p=33</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[As I have learned more about the compounds and mechanisms of green tea, and try to keep up with much of the research in womenâ€™s health and natural medicines, it becomes increasingly apparent that green tea has diverse uses in the prevention and treatment of conditions pertinent to women. These conditions include breast cancer, ovarian [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>As I have learned more about the compounds and mechanisms of green tea, and try to keep up with much of the research in womenâ€™s health and natural medicines, it becomes increasingly apparent that green tea has diverse uses in the prevention and treatment of conditions pertinent to women. These conditions include breast cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical dysplasia, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and weight management.</p>
<p><img width="116" height="155" align="left" alt="Green Tea - Tori Hudson, N.D." title="Green Tea - Tori Hudson, N.D." src="http://drtorihudson.com/files/camellia_fl.jpg" />Derived from the tea plant Camellia sinensis, green tea is very high in polyphenols which  have potent antioxidant and anti-tumor properties. The major polyphenols in green tea are flavonoids, including catechin, epicatechin, epicatechin gallate, epigallocatechin gallate, and proanthocyanidins. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is thought to be the most significant active component of green tea. Products with higher EGCG content, are thought to be more potent. Other compounds in green tea include vitamin C, a very small amount of caffeine, theanine, lignins, organic acids, protein and chlorophyll.</p>
<p>The catechins in green tea are thought to have anti-inflammatory activity by COX-1 and COX-2 inhibition, leukotriene inhibition, and nitric oxide synthetase activity.  Green tea flavonoids might also reduce lipoprotein oxidation, reduce proliferation of vascular smooth muscle and inhibit the release of arachidonic acid from platelets. However, when used in humans, green tea has not yet shown any consistent effect on cardiovascular risk factors.</p>
<p>A study was recently published in JAMA to investigate the associations between green tea consumption and all-cause and cause-specific mortality.  It is called the Ohsaki study, a population-based, prospective cohort study.  This study. included Japanese adults aged 40-79  without a history of stroke, coronary heart disease or cancer, at initiation of the study. They were followed for up to 11 years for all cause mortality and for up to 7 years for cause-specific mortality.  Green tea consumption was inversely associated with mortality due to all causes and inversely associated with cardiovascular disease.  This inverse association for all-cause mortality association and for cardiovascular disease was stronger in women and even a greater association with cardiovascular disease.</p>
<p>Unfortunately,  there was no beneficial effect of green tea consumption and reducing the hazard ratio of cancer mortality.</p>
<p>Despite lack of clarity regarding green tea and cancer prevention in humans, there are mechanisms of action of green tea that are compelling: Green tea may  protect against some kinds of cancers by preventing blood vessel growth in tumors, inducing apoptosis, reducing oxidative DNA damage, inhibiting tumor promoters, inhibiting hormones and growth factors with the receptor sites, reducing free radical generation and inhibiting important enzyme systems necessary for cancer promotion and proliferation.</p>
<p><strong>Green tea and cancers</strong></p>
<p>Laboratory studies demonstrate that the catechins in green tea, particularly  EGCG, inhibit tumor formation and growth through several mechanisms.  EGCG has been shown to induce apoptosis in cancer cells lines from prostate,  stomach  and epidermoid cancers.</p>
<p>Green tea polyphenols have induced apoptosis and inhibited lung cancer cell proliferation in vitro as well. Other examples of in vitro inhibition of EGCG on cancer cells have included colorectal  and breast cancer cells.</p>
<p><em>Breast Cancer</em></p>
<p><img align="right" alt="Breast Cancer - Tori Hudson, N.D." title="Breast Cancer - Tori Hudson, N.D." src="http://drtorihudson.com/files/cancer_ribbon_sm.jpg" />There have been numerous in vitro and animal studies  showing the effects of green tea on reducing as well as preventing breast tumors and inhibiting various enzymes and cell signaling systems.  EGCG has demonstrated the ability to inhibit the growth of human breast and prostate tumors transplanted into athymic mice.   Green tea extracts given to female rats significantly decreased DMBA-induced mammary tumor burden, invasive tumors, and significantly delayed the onset of a first tumor.    Another study  fed Sprague-Dawley rats 1% green tea catechins in the diet, was effective in reducing breast tumor promotion, but not the progression of breast cancer.   Several in vitro studies have found  green tea reduced the rate of proliferation of breast cancer cells.</p>
<p>More recently, green tea extract and EGCG affected angiogenic factor vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression.   The extract or the EGCG significantly decreased the levels of the VEGF peptide secreted into the medium of human breast cancer cells.  The green tea was also able to suppress the expression of protein kinase C, a VEGF transcription modulator, and decrease the RNA levels of VEGF.  Inhibition of VEGF transcription appears to be involved in the antiangiogenic effects of green tea.</p>
<p>The implication being that green tea could inhibit blood supply to breast cancer tumors or breast cancer cell target sites by inhibiting VEGF and may have potential use for breast cancer treatment and prevention.</p>
<p>Breast tumors which  are HER-2 neu positive may also be especially susceptible to green tea.  EGCG inhibited mouse mammary tumor HER-2 neu cell growth in vitro,   and dose of green tea polyphenols slowed the growth of estrogen receptor-negative breast cancer cell lines.12</p>
<p>In 1998, a study found  the more green tea pre-menopausal women with stage I and stage II breast cancer consumed, the fewer metastasized lymph nodes they developed.  Additionally, postmenopausal women who consumed green tea experienced an increased progesterone and estrogen status â€“ a finding usually associated with less aggressive forms of breast cancer. No benefit was seen in stage III breast cancer patients. In stage I and II patients, there was a 16.7% recurrence rate for those consuming five cups or more of green tea (with an average of eight cups) per day. For those who consumed four or fewer cups per day (with an average of two), there was a 24.3% recurrence rate.  Disease-free survival was also significantly improved in stage I and stage II breast cancer patients who had a greater consumption of green tea, compared to those who consumed less green tea.</p>
<p>Epidemiologic studies, both case-control and cohort in design, have examined the association between tea intake and breast cancer.  A meta-analysis of 13 papers provided data on green tea and black tea.   For black tea, there were conflicting results in case-control versus cohort studies. Of the eight case-control studies, there was a minor inverse association between black tea and risk of breast cancer. Five cohort studies demonstrated a modest increase in risk associated with black tea intake. However, the results for green tea indicated a lower risk for breast cancer with green tea consumption.</p>
<p><em>Ovarian Cancer</em></p>
<p>New research has raised the possibility that green and black tea may reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.  Investigators evaluated the association between tea consumption (mainly black tea) and the risk of ovarian cancer in women aged 40-76.  During an average of 15 years and in 61,057 women, tea consumption was inversely associated with ovarian cancer risk.   Compared with women who rarely or never consumed tea, those who drank 2 or more cups daily had a hazard ratio of 0.54 (95% CI, 0.31-0.91) for ovarian cancer.  Risk reduction was independent of age of menarche, age at first birth, age at menopause, family history of breast cancer and use of hormone replacement therapy.</p>
<p>Tea consumption may also enhance the survival of women with epithelial ovarian cancer.  A cohort of 254 women with confirmed ovarian cancer was followed for a minimum of 3 years.  The survival was greater with tea drinkers who consumed  at least 1 cup of green tea per day compared to  non tea drinkers.</p>
<p><strong>Cervical Dysplasia and HPV</strong></p>
<p>Green tea has recently been shown to influence numerous mechanisms which are favorable towards preventing and/or treating HPV related lesions. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate has been shown to inhibit epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling pathway.   EGFR activation is required for cervical cell proliferation which suggests  agents which inhibit EGFR may be of important therapeutic value in prevention and treatment of cervical dysplasia and genital warts. Two other in vitro studies demonstrated  EGCG inhibits the growth of human cervical cancer cell lines, induces apoptosis, inhibits telomerase activity in cervical cell lines and has a role in regulation of gene expression.</p>
<p><img width="182" height="134" align="left" title="Green Tea - Tori Hudson, N.D." alt="Green Tea - Tori Hudson, N.D." src="http://drtorihudson.com/files/camellia_sinensis_sm.jpg" />Perhaps the most encouraging of the studies was an investigation of the clinical efficacy of green tea extracts delivered vaginally and/or orally in patients with HPV infected cervical lesions. Fifty-one patients with cervical lesions ranging from chronic cervicitis, mild dysplasia, moderate dysplasia and severe dysplasia were divided into four groups as compared with 39 controls.  A green tea polyphenol vaginal product was applied locally twice a week to 27 patients. 20 of the 27 patients using the vaginal green tea product showed a response. An oral 200 mg EGCG capsule was taken orally every day for eight to 12 weeks in six patients and three out of the six showed a response.  Group three consisted of eight patients using the vaginal product and the oral capsule.  Six of eight showed a response. Group 4 consisted of 10 patients using a higher dose EGCG capsule (amount not stated).  Six out of the 10 patients with this higher dose EGCG oral capsule only, showed a response. Overall, 35 of 51 (69%) response rate was noted for the green tea products compared with a 10% response rate in the untreated controls. The mechanisms involved appear to be apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, modification of gene expression and anti-tumor effects, specifically, inhibition of cell proliferation. These results demonstrate  green tea extracts in the form of a vaginal delivery and an oral capsule are effective strategies for treating cervical lesions.</p>
<p><strong>Weight loss</strong></p>
<p>Green tea may also play a role in weight management. An increase in fat and calorie metabolism may be caused by the caffeine, catechin and theanine constituents. They appear to stimulate thermogenesis as a means of increasing fat burning and inhibiting fat absorption. In addition, individuals who take green tea extract have been observed to expend more energy and burn more calories than those who do not.  In this  study demonstrating the thermogenic properties and fat oxidation of green tea, done in Geneva in 1999, the higher dose used contained 50 mg of caffeine and 90 mg of EGCG per 2 capsules. According to this study, dosing is 2 caps with breakfast and 2 caps with lunch.</p>
<p><strong>Polycystic ovarian syndrome</strong></p>
<p>Green teaâ€™s ability to increase the production of sex-hormone-binding globulin and its thermogenic effect also provides a rationale for its use in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). By increasing sex hormone-binding globulin, some free testosterone can be bound up, thereby reducing some of the testosterone-related problems seen in women with PCOS such as hair thinning, acne and facial hair. Obesity is another consideration in approximately 50% of PCOS women. Green tea may be helpful in not only increasing SHBG, but also in the thermogenic effects and weight loss potential.</p>
<p><strong>Cognitive Impairment</strong></p>
<p>Dementia, especially Alzheimerâ€™s Disease, is more common in women than in men.  Considerable in vitro and animal evidence shows  green tea may possess neuroprotection, help to reduce amyloid precursor protein and scavenge free radicals.  These effects may offer enhancement of cognitive function, but no human data has existed until very recently.  Higher consumption of green tea, in men and women, was associated with a lower prevalence of cognitive impairment.  This study showed an inverse dose response relationship between consumption of green tea and the prevalence of cognitive impairment.</p>
<p><strong>Side effects and dosing</strong></p>
<p>Some individuals are negatively affected by the small amount of caffeine in<br />
green tea and its stimulating effect, leading to nervousness, insomnia, dizziness, agitation, restlessness, confusion and anxiety.  These effects are more common when using higher doses of green tea.  Some individuals may also have an increase in blood pressure or pulse, especially if consumed in higher amounts and in those who already have even mild hypertension.  Allergic reactions can occur and tend to include cough, dyspnea, loss of consciousness and asthma.  Rare anaphylaxis reactions can occur to the caffeine in green tea.</p>
<p>Another consideration is withdrawal from the green tea.  Although uncommon, withdrawal symptoms have been known to occur, including anxiety, restlessness, muscle tension, nausea and vomiting.</p>
<p>Combining ephedra with caffeine can increase the risk of adverse events including hypertension, seizures, and temporary loss of consciousness.  Avoid use during pregnancy and while nursing. Infants whose nursing mothers consume caffeine could suffer from sleep disorders.</p>
<p>The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database lists the following drugs as have potential adverse interactions with green tea:  Adenosine, Alcohol, amphetamines, cimetidine, clozapine, cocaine, contraceptives, disulfiram, ephedrine, estrogens, fluconazole, lithium, monamine oxidase inhibitors, nicotine, quinolone antibiotics, theophylline, verapamil and clopidogrel, ticlopidine, heparin and warfrain.</p>
<p>When dosing green tea capsules, those containing 300 mg of green tea extract with 95% polyphenols, 80% catechins and 55% EGCG, 1 capsule is approximately equal to 3 cups of green tea.  The normal amount of green tea consumed traditionally by Japanese adults is about three cups per day, providing about 240 to 320 mg of polyphenols.  Green tea suppositories are also now available for use in HPV and cervical dysplasia management.</p>
<p><strong>Summary of Clinical concepts</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Breast Cancer stage I or II= 2-3 green tea extract capsules (containing 95% polyphenols, 80% catechines and 55% EGCG per day)  per day or 5-8 cups of tea daily.</li>
<li>Ovarian cancer prevention= 1 cup per day</li>
<li>Ovarian cancer treatment adjunct= 2 cups per day</li>
<li>Cervical atypia= green tea suppositories twice weekly plus one green tea extract capsule per day</li>
<li>Cervical dysplasias= as part of a comprehensive systemic and local treatment strategy, also include one green tea capsule daily and green tea suppositories twice weekly</li>
<li>Weight loss= 2 caps of green tea extract with breakfast and 2 with lunch (2 caps = 50 mg caffeine and 90 mg of EGCG)</li>
<li>PCOS= 250-500 mg of green tea extract per day (95% polyphenols, 80% catechins, 45% EGCG)</li>
</ol>
<p><strong>Citations</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Kuriyama S, Shimazu T, Ohmori K, et al.  Green tea consumption, and mortality due to cardiovascular disease, cancer, and all causes in Japan: the Ohsaki study. JAMA 2006 Sept 13; 296 (10): 1255-1265.</li>
<li>Paschka A, et al.  Induction of apoptosis in prostate cancer cell lines by the green tea components, epigallocatechine-3-gallate.  Cancer Lett 1998;130(1-2):1-7</li>
<li>Hibasami H, et al.  Induction of apoptosis in human stomach cancer cells by green tea catechins.  Oncol Rep 1998;5:527-529.</li>
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