More Updates on Cell Phone Usage and and Brain Tumors

The current issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA, February 23, 2011), details a never before studied aspect of cell phone-brain interaction. In an article entitled, "Effects of Cell Phone Radiofrequency Signal Exposure on Brain Glucose Metabolism," the authors report that cell phone usage alters brain glucose metabolism.

The study was conducted at Brookhaven National Laboratory. Forty seven healthy volunteers participated. Each person had a PET scan before and then after a 50 minute recorded conversation (with the sound muted so that auditory activation was not imaged by the PET scan). The authors found that brain regions nearest the cell phone antenna displayed significantly higher glucose metabolism after the 50 minute phone call.

The authors concluded that the finding is of unknown clinical significance.

The second update comes from the journal, Bioelectromagnetics (January 28, 2011). This study, entitled, "Time Trends (1998-2007)in Brain Cancer Incidence Rates in Relation to Mobile Phone Use in England," reviewed age group specific national cancer incidence rates in the United Kingdom. The authors found no statistically significant change in the incidence of brain cancer among men and women.

The authors conclude that despite a dramatic increase in cell phone usage between the years 1998 and 2007, there has been no particular change in the incidence of brain cancer in the United Kingdom. The authors do not recommend any intervention to limit cell phone usage at this time.

Until there is definitive data regarding the relationship between cell phone use and brain tumor formation, it is prudent to limit cell phone usage particularly among children with developing brains.

We will continue to post new information on this blog as it becomes available.

Even More on Cell Phones and Brain Tumors

This article appeared recently in the Journal of Computer Assisted Tomography. The authors conducted a review of published studies looking at long term (10 years or more) cell phone use and incidence of brain tumor. They particularly commented on two recent large studies: The Interphone Study, a multinational study, and Swedish studies lead by Dr. Hardell. The two studies have methodology issues. An important issue for the Interphone Study is that is was largely funded by mobile phone industry.

Here are some interesting comments and conclusions:

1. Long-term cell phone use can increase the likelihood of being hospitalized for migraines and vertigo by 10% to 20%
2. Cell phone storage in front pockets has been linked to poor fertility and an increased chance of miscarriage and childhood cancer.
3. Electromagnetic radiation from a cell phone can penetrate the skull and deposit energy 4 to 6 cm into the brain. This
4. long-term cell phone use can approximately double the risk of developing a glioma or an acoustic neuroma in the more exposed brain hemisphere (the side of most cell phone use)
5. A study reported an 80% increased near significant risk (93.9%) of testicular cancer when the cell phone was kept in the left pocket, then the left testicle developed cancer; and kept in the right pocket, then the right testicle developed cancer

These are precautionary tips from the authors:

"Here are some steps one can take to reduce exposure to electromagnetic energy from cell phones:

1. Limit the use of cell phones to essential calls and keep calls short. 2. Children should be allowed to use a cell phone in cases of emergency only. Because of their developing skulls, the radiation can penetrate much more deeply. 3. Wear an air tube headset (not regular wired headset). The regular wired headset has been found to intensify radiation into the ear canal. The wire not only transmits the radiation from the cell phone but also serves as an antenna, attracting EMFs from the surroundings. 4. Do not put the cell phone in a pocket or a belt while in use or while it is on. The body tissue in the lower body area has good conductivity and absorbs radiation more quickly than the head. One study shows that men who wear cell phones near their groin could have their sperm count dropped by as much as 30%. 5. If using the phone without a headset, wait for the call to connect before placing the phone next to the ear. 6. Do not use the cell phone in enclosed metal spaces such as vehicles or elevators, where devices may use more power to establish connection. 7. Do not make a call when the signal strength is 1 bar or less, which means the phone must work harder to establish a connection.

8. Use a scientifically validated EMF protection device. There are advanced technologies available nowadays that strengthen the bioenergy field and immune system against the effects of EMF. 9. Use text instead of talk.

10. Use landlines.

11. Keep cell phone off most of the time. Let people leave messages and then call them back from a landline.

12. Limit the use of cell phones in rural areas."

So, evidence is mounting that there are health concerns related to long term cell phone use. It seems prudent to limit cell phone use especially for young children.

More on Cell Phones and Brain Tumors

Two recently published studies on the usage of cell phones and the incidence of brain tumor reached conflicting conclusions.

The first study, "Association between number of cell phone contracts and brain tumor incidence in nineteen U.S. States," authored by Steven Lehrer, Sheryl Green, and Richard G. Stock from Mount Sinai School Of Medicine, looked at the number of cell phone subscriptions and the number of brain tumors in 19 states. The authors found an independent correlation between cell phone subscriptions and brain tumor incidence and concluded, "The very linear relationship between cell phone usage and brain tumor incidence is disturbing and certainly needs further epidemiological evaluation. In the meantime, it would be prudent to limit exposure to all sources of electro-magnetic radiation."

The second study, "Brain cancer incidence trends in relation to cellular telephone use in the United States," authored by Peter D. Inskip, Robert N. Hoover, and Susan S. Devesa from the National Institutes of Health, looked at brain tumor incidence rates from 1992 to 2006. Overall, there was a slightly downward trend except for 20-29 year old females. In this group of patients, there was a statistically significant increase in frontal lobe tumors--a region of the brain not felt to be at risk from cell phone use. The authors concluded, "Overall,

these incidence data do not provide support to the view that cellular phone use causes brain cancer."

It is difficult to explain the opposing conclusions in these two studies. One issue in both studies is that if there is a causal relationship between cell phone use and brain tumors, it would take many years of cell phone use to yield a tumor. Because the remarkable increase in cell phone use is fairly recent, we may not know for another 10 or more years if there is a relationship between cell phones and brain tumors.

In the meantime, it would be reasonable to use hands free technology and limit cell phone use in children and teens.

2010 Karry Award Winners

Congratulations to Ashley Tapio and her Lady Fishermen Varsity Basketball team for being chosen the 2010 Individual and Team Karry Award winners this year.

The John Karry Award is the highest honor bestowed by the UMBTC. It is named for John Karry. John completed the 40 mile bike ride on a heavy, old steel bike in the cold and damp of our inaugural Hope Starts Here Challenge. Two days later he was in the operating room undergoing his third operation for a recurrent malignant brain tumor. John's courage and spirit and never quit attitude inspired us then as it does now. The Karry award is given to the individual and team/group that most inspires our patients, families and staff.

Ashley Tapio is a senior at Ilwaco Highschool in Washington state and captain of her basketball team. Her grandmother, Phyllis Kuusisto, lives in the Keweenaw. In 2009, Phyllis was diagnosed with a glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Ashley knew instantly that for her senior project she would honor her grandmother by raising funds and awareness for brain cancer research and treatment.

Her mentor for this project was Ned Bittner, Head Coach of the Lady Fishermen Varsity Basketball team. Ned was eager to help as his mother-in-law, Linda Cheuvront, was battling brain cancer also.

During the '09-10 season, Ashley and her team wore special t-shirts, and there were announcements and banners throughout their highschool. Ashley also organized a 2nd through 6th grade girl's basketball camp, Hoops for Brain Cancer.

Through her efforts and the generosity of the Ilwaco community, Ashley raised over $700.00 for the UMBTC.

We are very proud of Ashley and her team for their very extraordinary support of Phyllis, Linda and the UMBTC. And we hope that the Hoops for Brain Cancer basketball camp continues and grows for many years to come.

In the photos, you will see Ashley and her grandmother Phyllis, her team and Hoops for Brain Cancer participants and coaches.

5th Annual Hope Starts Here Challenge

For the second year in a row, nasty weather descended on the UP, but it did not dampen the outpouring of support for the event. And for the second year in a row, we shattered participation numbers. There were about 330 registered for this year's event--including 50 people who signed up the morning of the Challenge, despite several inches of snow and a winter storm warning.

First, a truly heartfelt thanks to all who participated in, volunteered at, or sponsored the event. While the funds raised are vitally important to maintain and expand the UMBTC's programs, equally important is the inspiration and motivation your support provides to our patients, families and staff.

It is a little crazy, though, that the worse the weather, the better the turnout. I think that really speaks to the character of the folks that live in the UP. We embrace a cause because it is important and we embrace our weather because it sets us apart, makes us stronger.

What is it about the Hope Starts Here Challenge and the UMBTC that gets people out of a nice warm bed to face a cold, snowy morning? I think it is because all our programs are centered around our patients and families. I think it is because all our members are enthusiastic, energetic and hopeful. I think it is because we are always moving forward, open to new approaches and new ideas. I think it is because the things we learn caring for our brain tumor patients can be applied to caring for patients with other cancers.

Thank you for your support. See you next May for the 6th Annual Hope Starts Here Challenge.

Do snow clouds have silver linings?

Yes. For sure.

Some of you may be watching the weather forecast for May 8, the date for the 5th Annual Hope Starts Here Challenge. If you haven't seen it, here it is:

Sounds nasty. It is hard for me to believe that the weather for this year's event could be worse than the wind driven shards of ice we rode through last year. It is also hard to believe May 8th could see worse winter weather than March 8th.

Maybe, the forecast will be wrong.

Even if the weatherman is right, I will be at MGH and I hope you will be too. Even if I can't ride because of snow, I will be there. I might run or maybe walk, but I will be there. Smiling. Enjoying the warm companionship of my family and friends.

Why? Because every once in a while it is important to be part of something bigger than yourself: showing our support for patients and families during Brain Tumor Awareness Month, for example.

There is another reason to get out of your cozy, warm bed and get dressed in layers to ride your bike, or walk or run: every once in a while we need to do something outside our comfort zone. When we challenge ourselves in this way, we can get an appreciation for the strength and resolve our brain tumor patients and families display everyday.

If we can meet this challenge, just think what else we can do.

So, come Saturday, get out your hats and gloves and snowpants, come on over to MGH and be part of something extraordinary and memorable.

And the silver lining? We could always build snowmen.

Graduate Student Research at UMBTC

The research lab and graduate and undergraduate student education has been and is a top priority for the UMBTC. The UMBTC provides an opportunity for students to learn, contribute and excel. We have been fortunate to work with bright, talented and motivated students. This year, the tradition of excellence continues. I am pleased to report that for the third year running, one of our graduate students took first place honors at the Celebration of Student Research, April 15th at NMU. And for the second time in three years, our students place 1st and 2nd.

Danny LeBert received the top prize for his research, "Investigation of an Alternative Cancer Recurrence Model and Characterization of Murine Neural Stem Cell Migratory Capabilities." This work aims to determine the mechanisms that lead to GBM recurrence. Danny will defend his Master's thesis this summer and will hopefully complete a postgraduate year in our lab.

Vanessa Thibado came in a close second with her work, "PARP-1 Inhibition as Concomitant Therapy in Resistant Glioblastoma Multiforme." This work is evaluating alternative treatment targets to render GBM more sensitive to chemotherapy. Vanessa is completing her first graduate year and will continue her work over the summer and the next academic year.

Danny and Vanessa are also very active in the Graduate Student Association at NMU. Vanessa is currently serving as President. She and Danny travelled to Lansing as Ambassadors to the 2010 Michigan Graduate Education Day. They were the only two graduate students from NMU to attend. Overall, 71 grad students from 16 Michigan universities participated. Danny and Vanessa met with Steve Lindberg, State Representative for our district and were introduced by him to the State House of Representatives.

These opportunities are made possible through the generous support of our community to the UMBTC.

On May 8th, the UMBTC is hosting its once a year fundraising event, the Hope Starts Here Challenge. We'd love for you to participate and, if possible, make a tax deductible contribution to the UMBTC so that we can continue the programs that are making a difference in the lives of our patients and families.

National Brain Tumor Society launches a new online community

The National Brain Tumor Society has created an online community called My.BrainTumorCommunity.org. Similar to the social networking opportunities provided by the UMBTC (Facebook, Blog, Twitter), My.BrainTumorCommunity is a moderated space that "allows visitors to get helpful information, ask questions, lend support, build friendships." The site is available 24/7 and features blogs, discussion forums and photo sharing.

Check the site out and let us know what you think.

The 2010 Hope Starts Here Challenge Jerseys Are Here!

The much anticipated Hope Starts Here Jerseys are here. They are perfect for running, cycling or walking.

Now, the jersey may not make you faster or smarter, or help you find your soulmate*, but by owning this jersey, you can show your support for all the patients and families dealing with brain tumors.

The unisex jersey is $50.00, with every penny raised used to fund research to find better treatments and improve quality of life for our brain tumor patients.

These jerseys will be sold at the Challenge on May 8. If you want to get your hands on one sooner, visit the Down Wind Sports booth at the Rec show this weekend at Lakeview.

A special thanks to our models. Samantha is an RN and works in the ICU at Marquette General. She cares for many of our brain tumor patients right after surgery. Samantha is also studying quality of life issues affecting brain tumor patients.

Brett is a personal trainer and owner of B Cubed Fitness (906-869-4990). Brett specializes in applied functional science techniques for evaluation, training, and rehabilitation. Both Samantha and Brett will be at the Challenge, and would be happy to talk with you.

*Well, maybe the jersey does help you find your soulmate...Congratulations to Brett and Samantha on their engagement!

What do April Snow Showers Bring??

Thirty days before the Hope Starts Here Challenge. I had planned a ride to preview the course, but awoke to a three inch blanket of newly fallen snow. Still, not as bad as last year's ride.

Happily, my bike needed fixing (thanks Down Wind Sports) so I was forced to take these videos from the car.

The first clip is at the ski hill looking up 553.

The second clip is on Lakeshore along Picnic Rocks.

March 8th, was sunny and 50. April 8th, snowing and blowing. May 8th? I have no doubt that it will be a great day.

2010 Hope Starts Here Challenge Long Ride Map

The GPS mapped long ride route is now available. The course takes riders from Marquette General Hospital, along Lake Superior, then out to KI Sawyer airport. Please note, the turn around point/aid station will not be at the W as it was in years past. We are working on securing a new turn around point. The long ride (to be renamed the Airport Ride for next year--it sounds less intimidating) is 38.63 miles.

The first map is the overall course. Next is the elevation profile--mostly downhill!! The other maps are zoomed views showing the route to/from the hospital along the Lake, crossing the high way at Beef-A-Roo, Division to 553, 553 to airport.

American Cancer Society Explains the Benefit of Health Care Reform for Cancer Patients

Health care reform is controversial. The recently signed legislation may not be perfect, but it does benefit cancer patients in the following ways:
1. insurance coverage for patients participating in clinical trials
2. removal of lifetime caps
3. insurers can no longer exclude children with pre existing conditions from their parents' policy
4. dependent children up to age 26 can remain on their parents' policy
5. closing the drug prescription gap in Medicare Part D. As more and more cancer drugs become available in oral form, the drugs have become less affordable for cancer patients. Beginning in 2010, seniors who fall in the "doughnut hole," or, spend between $2,700 and $6,154, will receive a $250 government subsidy to help cover the costs of their medication. By 2020, Medicare will cover 75 percent of drug costs in the "doughnut hole" for Medicare patients.
6. focus more on prevention and early detection by requiring all insurance plans to provide coverage for essential, evidence-based preventive measures with no additional co-pays

The American Cancer Society's Cancer Action Network and the American Society of Clinical Oncologists will continue their strong advocacy on behalf of cancer patients. Both organizations have pledged to work with Congress to improve and extend this historic legislation.

Hair Care Update

Disclaimer: Even though I have given many haircuts, I am no hair care expert. And, the UMBTC is not endorsing the products described below--they are examples of alternatives to your usual daily shampoos and conditioners.

Over the next few weeks, the UMBTC is rolling out its quality of life initiative. We want to work with you, our patients and families, and health care providers and other folks in the community to find answers to questions like, "How do I take care of my hair and scalp during brain tumor treatment?" We hope to chip away at the worries and anxieties that can get you down.

So, about hair and scalp care. We turned to Julie Champion at Sisters Hair Co. 906-226-4090. It turns out there are a number of products to gently cleanse your hair and scalp and stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles. Julie recommends Eufora products as they are organic, US made and cruelty free.

For hair and scalp damaged by surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, try Eufora's Pure Cleanse Shampoo and Urgent Repair Replenishing Treatment.

Julie, and all the stylists at Sisters Hair Co, provide free hair and scalp care consultation for patients undergoing cancer treatment. Please call for an appointment, there may be a wait before they can get you scheduled.

Sisters Hair Co. also provides wiggery services. If you can get in before your treatment starts, they can do wonders matching your normal hair. They recommend synthetic wigs for easy care.

If you have suggestions, please feel free to leave a comment.

You can also check with other area salons to see what other products and services are available.

Hope Starts Here Challenge Update

Here is the preliminary schedule of events for the 5th Annual Hope Starts Here Challenge, May 8th, 2010.

• Registration opens 8 AM
• Long Ride Start 9 AM
• Long Run Start 10 AM
• Short Ride Start 10:30 AM
• Walk Start 10:40 AM
• Short Run Start 11 AM
• Lunch Start 11:30 AM

All times Eastern.

Website should be updated soon. We'll try to include course maps for the 5K and 15K run.

Check out our new logo:

John Karry Award Winners

The John Karry Award is given to the individual and team that raise the most money for the UMBTC. John fought a courageous battle against brain cancer and inspires us to continue the fight.

2007 Individual Karry Award Winner: Elizabeth Schut (2nd year in a row, let's hope she tries for a hat trick).

2007 Team Karry Award Winner: Team Kus, riding for Molly.

Congratulations to all the riders--please join us next year.

2nd Hope Starts Here Cycling Challenge

Saturday May 12th. Nearly 200 riders and families and friends came out to show their love and support for those of us dealing with brain tumors.
Again for me, the highlight of the day was the David Bailey concert. David is a brain tumor survivor (nearly 11 years) and is a self described "hippie folk singer". His message is simple: don't be afraid, share hope, as much as you need other people--you are needed too. David also redefines the question every one asks when given the diagnosis of brain tumor: "Why me?" becomes "What now?" The message is universal, uplifting and motivating. It applies equally to patients, families and caregivers.
If you don't see any other concert next year, you must see David's. Watch the blog for updates.
For me, the ride is about meeting challenges, exceeding your expectations. If you can do that one day, you can do the next and the next. You don't need a five year plan, you need a plan for one day--what do you want to do today?
I leave you with this quote:
"Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving"--Albert Einstein, 1930

Hope Starts Here

I get asked alot about the origin of the UMBTC motto "Hope Starts Here". I would begin by explaining what I believe Hope means--what we all feel Hope means--that tomorrow promises to be better than today in some way. But over the past 18 months or so, I have realized that it is not what we believe or think or feel or say that matters most--it is what we do.
So for me, Hope is what I do.
Hope is going to the operating room to remove a cancer.
Hope is going to the lab to search for a clue that might lead to a better treatment.
Hope is spending time with my patients and families, listening.
The UMBTC is made up of people who Hope.
Hope is what we do.
Hope is who we are.
That is why I can truly say Hope Starts Here.
Rich Rovin