Alternative Medicine Practices Can Lower Risk Of Cervical Cancer

The FDA has just approved a new vaccine to prevent the strain of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) that causes cervical cancer, the second-deadliest cancer in women worldwide. In the U.S., 3,900 women die from cervical cancer each year, according to the National Cervical Cancer Coalition. The 3-shot inoculation is expected to cost $300 and is approved for girls and women ages 9 to 26. Since it is a preventive measure and will not kill HPV once a person is infected, the vaccine is effective only before the onset of sexual activity. Side effects, particularly in young girls, and long-term effectiveness are still unknown. While every parent wants to protect their child from danger and disease, the potential good must outweigh the risk, and not all HPV infections result in cervical cancer.

"Generally, the immune system can handle HPV, which is often symptomless, and outbreaks of the virus come and go like an unremarkable cold. But when the virus persists or comes from a high-risk strain, it can cause cervical dysplasia, . . . abnormally shaped cells in the cervix that can be a precursor to cervical cancer," says Diana Somerville in a recent article posted on alternativemedicine.com (click the post title to read the article).

Simple precautions, a healthy diet, and regular checkups can keep HPV under control. Foods that lower the risk of developing cervical dysplasia include lycopene, vitamin A, zinc, vitamin C, and folic acid, says Jane Guiltinan, ND, director of the Bastyr Center for Women's Wellness in Seattle. She recommends a diet rich in fish and organic whole foods.

• Regular Pap tests have reduced cervical cancer deaths by more than 70% in the U.S.
• A robust immune system can help combat HPV. Smoking, poor nutrition, and low antioxidant levels increase your risk.
• Starting sexual activity at a young age, multiple partners, and unprotected sex increase your risk to 90%.

If the infection has progressed to low-grade lesions, finding a practitioner who knows "when to treat and when to get cells removed" is critical, advises Tori Hudson, ND, professor of gynecology at the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, Oregon. Hudson says troublesome tissues can be removed with a scalpel, a laser or by freezing, methods that are effective 90% of the time.

Through my consultancy service, I am available to advise you on preventive measures that can help protect you against HPV. Should it ever become necessary to treat cancerous lesions, I can assist you in finding the right practitioner through my extensive nationwide contacts. Visit my website for more information on the consultation services I provide. You also might want to preview my documentary video Cancer Conquest. This information-dense video showcases cutting-edge techniques and technologies to provide real insight into alternative treatment options and therapies that can change your life. For more information, visit my website at http://www.burtongoldberg.com/index.html.