Let's face it. Brain cancer is scary. Since the brain is the nerve center of the human body, brain cancer conjures up images of a mind disintegrating, along with the mobility and other functions of the body. There are essentially two types of brain cancer: cancer that starts in an organ such as the kidney or lung and makes its way to the brain (metastatic brain cancer), and cancer that starts in the brain and filters down to other organs (primary brain cancer). Cancer cells grow to form tumors that are either benign or malignant. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) assigns a grade to tumors based on how they look under a microscope. The grade designation ranges from Grade I, indicating benign and slow growing, to Grade IV, indicating malignant and rapidly growing. No one knows the causes of brain cancer. Research scientists have determined that individuals with certain risk factors are more likely than others to develop some form of cancer. Personal habits (i.e. smoking, alcoholism) and viral infections (HIV, sexually transmitted diseases, etc.) may contribute to developing cancer. Even if an individual maintained a pristine lifestyle, other factors, such as heredity or occupational environment might conspire to bring about cancerous tumors.

So how does one "take charge" of their brain cancer? First, avoid the "risk factors" stated above. If possible, avoid employment in "risky" environments, such as mining, oil refinery, embalming, and rubber-industry work. If a diagnosis of brain cancer is made, get information on the cancer regarding symptoms, risk factors, treatments and other options, because knowledge is power, and power will lessen fear. Richard Block, co-founder of H & R Block, and a survivor of cancer wrote in his book, Fighting Cancer:

"You must, on your own, make the commitment that you will do everything in your power to fight your disease. No exceptions. Nothing halfway. Nothing for the sake of ease or convenience. Everything! Nothing short of it. When you have done this, you have accomplished the most difficult thing you will have to accomplish throughout your entire treatment."

Such a commitment will test the mental, emotional and spiritual fortitude of the cancer patient as well as those of his family and other supporters. The cancer patient must maintain an "I will beat this" attitude even as his family and friends have resigned themselves to his death. Participation in cancer support groups, internet forums and blogs with other cancer patients determined to fight the disease is invaluable. Dr. Rachel Naomi Remen states, in a foreword to the book, Fighting Cancer from Within, written by Dr. Martin L. Rossman, that "a diagnosis of cancer is a personal encounter with the will to live" and that "this will is buried in the heart of every living thing". I cannot say it better myself!

[http://www.cancerwithoutfear.com]