CLL is the most common leukemia in the United States, and the incidence increases with age. Observation is generally chosen for patients in the early stages; alkylating agents and combination chemotherapy are offered to other selected patients. Reference: Hazzard WR, et al (eds): Principles of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, 5th ed. New York, McGraw-Hill, 2003

A monoclonal gammopathy is a condition in which a monoclonal protein (M spike) is identified on serum protein electrophoresis of IgG < 3.5 g/dl or IgA < 2 gm/dL without associated signs or symptoms of a hematologic abnormality. At 10 years of follow-up, 40% of elderly patients diagnosed with MGUS are stable, 40% have died [...]

Only about 30% of prostate cancers are local at time of diagnosis. Two thirds are widespread and incurable at diagnosis. Fortunately, the malignancy is usually responsive to hormonal manipulation, which controls the disease and alleviates symptoms. Reference: Kane RL, et al: Essentials of Clinical Geriatrics, 5th ed. New York, McGraw-Hill, 2004.

Elderly women are much more likely to have estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, implying a malignancy that will be more responsive to hormonal manipulation and possibly slower-growing. Reference: Forciea MA, Schwab EP, Raziano DB, Lavizzo-Mourey RJ: Geriatric Secrets, 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Hanley & Belfus, 2004.

Many are saying that milk feeds cancer cells because they say milk stimulate mucus production and mucus feeds cancer cells. However, a study conducted in Australia showed that milk mixed with salivary has a mucus consistency and can be mistaken for mucus. Also, milk does not encourage extra mucus production. Cancer cells produce mucus. Cancer [...]