Unraveling Connections
Understanding the connection between cancer and autoimmune conditions is crucial for improving patient care and developing impactful solutions. One brand that has garnered attention in the treatment of autoimmune conditions is Panzyga. Panzyga is primarily indicated for the treatment of primary humoral immunodeficiency (PI). It works by providing antibodies that the patient's immune system lacks, thereby helping to prevent infections. This article will explore the intricate relationship between cancer and autoimmune conditions, as well as signs to look out for.
Carcinogenic Drinks to Avoid
- Soda.
- Sugary fruit juices.
- Energy drinks.
- Alcohol.
- Sweetened iced tea.
- Processed fruit drinks.
- Flavored waters with artificial sweeteners.
- Sweetened coffee drinks.
- Sports drinks with added sugars.
- Canned iced coffees and teas.
What is an Autoimmune Condition?
Autoimmune conditions arise when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, recognizing them as foreign invaders. A healthy immune system creates proteins called antibodies that work to protect you against harmful substances like viruses, cancer cells and toxins. But with autoimmune disorders, your immune system can't tell the difference between invaders and healthy cells, and as a result, healthy cells are attacked.
Panzyga is a drug that helps treat autoimmune conditions. Panzyga is an immunoglobulin therapy that provides antibodies that the patient's immune system lacks, which works to help prevent serious infection.
Common autoimmune conditions include:
- Celiac disease.
- Dermatomyositis.
- Graves disease.
- Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis).
- Multiple sclerosis.
- Lupus.
- Type I diabetes.
How are Cancer and Autoimmune Conditions Related?
According to Anthony Perre, MD, Internist and Chief of the Division of Outpatient Medicine at City of Hope Atlanta, Chicago and Phoenix via Cancer Center, there is a strong connection between cancer and many autoimmune diseases. He explains, “For example, many autoimmune diseases may lead to inflammation, which has been implicated as a factor in the possible cause of cancer.”
Cancer and autoimmunity share a common origin but manifest in different ways. As a result, both diseases lead to a failure of the body’s immune system which makes further sickness more likely. Other correlations between the two conditions include:
Chronic Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is a common factor in both cancer and autoimmune diseases. In autoimmune conditions, persistent inflammation can damage tissues and create an environment conducive to cancer development.
Genetic Predisposition
Genetic factors play a significant role in the development of both cancer and autoimmune diseases. Certain genetic mutations and variations can predispose individuals to both conditions.
Therapeutic Interventions
Treatments for autoimmune diseases can inadvertently increase the risk of cancer. By suppressing the immune system, these medications may reduce the body's ability to detect and destroy cancer cells. On the other hand, some cancer treatments can trigger autoimmune reactions, leading to the development of new autoimmune conditions or exacerbating existing ones.
Early Signs of Cancer and Autoimmune Diseases
Unexplained Weight Loss
Losing a few pounds here and there is most likely normal. However, if you feel you’ve lost a significant amount of weight in a short period for no particular reason, it might be time to discuss it with your doctor. While it could be nothing serious, in some rare cases it could be one of the first signs of cancer or an autoimmune disease.
Fatigue
There’s tired–and then there’s fatigue. One of the first major signs of cancer or autoimmunity is extreme fatigue. That’s because cancer uses your body’s nutrients to grow and advance, so those nutrients are no longer replenishing your body. This can leave you feeling exceptionally tired–a sign that you should talk to your doctor.
Fever
A fever is usually your body’s way of telling you that something isn’t quite right. While fevers are common in colds and the flu, there might be something more nefarious at play if your fever occurs mostly at night, you have no other signs of infection and you have night sweats. This could be an early sign of cancer or an autoimmune disease.
Pain
Having body pains here and there is completely normal. However, if you’re experiencing intense pain that won’t seem to go away and you don’t know where it came from, it could be time to talk to your doctor. Pain throughout the body can be an early sign of cancer or an autoimmune condition.
Skin Changes
If you happen to notice a yellowing of your eyes or fingertips, this could be a sign of a possible infection or cancer. Talk to your doctor as soon as you can if you notice any signs of jaundice.