Young adult cancer pre-vivor: Why I had my stomach removed at age 25
Most people don’t realize you can live quite comfortably without a stomach. But I found that out first-hand in 2020, after learning I carry a genetic mutation called CDH1.
CHD1 dramatically increases your risk of developing both stomach cancer and lobular carcinoma, a type of breast cancer. The risk is so high for stomach cancer that doctors often recommend a total gastrectomy — or the complete surgical removal of your...
Triple-negative breast cancer survivor: Why I chose a clinical trial at MD Anderson
Cancer runs very strongly on one side of my family. Several members have had either breast cancer or ovarian cancer. Two tested positive for...
6 breast cancer myths you shouldn’t believe
Can wearing underwire bras cause breast cancer? What about using antiperspirants containing aluminum or eating foods made with soybeans? ...
Stage IV lung cancer survivor: Why you should start your treatment at MD Anderson
After watching my grandmother die with emphysema, I resolved never to smoke. So, when I was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer — and told I had less than year to live — I thought, “This can’t be happening.”
I just didn’t make the connection, even though I’d had a persistent cough for a few months, been losing weight without trying, felt a heaviness in my chest and even begun coughing up blood. I thought, “How can I possibly have...
Stage III ovarian cancer survivor: Don’t ignore your symptoms
When I was diagnosed with stage III ovarian cancer in July 2023, it hit me like a thunderbolt. Ovarian cancer doesn’t run in my family. But...
Renal medullary carcinoma, sickle cell trait and high-intensity exercise: What’s the connection?
Very few people will be diagnosed with renal medullary carcinoma this year. But of those who are, about 60% will be young Black men who carry...
Lynch syndrome: 10 things to know about this genetic condition
Lynch syndrome is a genetic condition that makes some people more likely to develop certain cancers.
Carriers have a much...
How to reduce your breast cancer risk
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. So, you may be wondering how to avoid breast cancer.
While there is no guaranteed...
Should you get a full-body scan to look for cancer?
Getting a full-body scan to check yourself out for possible cancers might sound like a great idea. But what are the risks and benefits? And...
Desmoid tumors: 8 things to know
Desmoid tumors are slow-growing, locally invasive tumors that develop in the body’s connective tissues. Also known as aggressive fibromatosis...