MSI Press Blog

  Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is more than just chronic heartburn—it’s a condition that, over time, can lead to cellular changes in the esophagus and, in rare cases, cancer. Let’s unpack the journey from reflux to risk. 🔥 GERD → Barrett’s Esophagus: How Often? GERD affects up to 20% of Western populations weekly. Barrett’s esophagus develops in about 10–15% of GERD patients . Barrett’s is a condition where the normal squamous cells lining the esophagus are replaced by columnar cells, resembling intestinal tissue—a process called intestinal metaplasia . 🧬 Is Barrett’s Esophagus Stage 0 Cancer? Not quite. Barrett’s itself is precancerous , but when it progresses to high-grade dysplasia , it’s often classified as stage 0 esophageal cancer . Stage 0 means abnormal cells are confined to the top layer of the esophagus lining and haven’t invaded deeper tissues. It’s called “stage 0” because it’s the earliest detectable phase before true invasive cancer begins. ...

  When cancer enters your life, the search for a good oncologist becomes urgent and deeply personal. But if you live in a rural area, that search can feel like a scavenger hunt across miles of farmland, winding roads, and medical deserts. Here's what I've learned—and what I wish someone had handed me in a moment of overwhelm. 🧭 Start Local, Think Strategic Your primary care doctor is often your first guide. They may not specialize in oncology, but they can refer you to regional cancer centers or specialists who treat your specific type and stage of cancer. Ask them directly: “Who would you trust with this diagnosis?” 🧑‍⚕️ Know Your Oncologist Types Medical oncologists manage chemotherapy and systemic treatments. Radiation oncologists specialize in targeted radiation therapy. Surgical oncologists remove tumors and perform biopsies. You may need more than one. Ask how they coordinate care and whether they’re part of a cancer center or hospital network. 🚗 Bridge th...

  Sharing information about a great and highly useful book by Barbara Karnes, RN, who has written a unique series of books on death and dying of immense support to those diagnosed with cancer and other life-limiting, life-threatening, and terminal illnesses. Here is what she says about the book: When a person receives the diagnosis of a life-threatening illness, life as they know it ceases. They find themselves in uncharted territory with no script to follow. Too often they withdraw from the world, as if they have already died. All activity becomes centered on their living with disease and its treatment. Fear and uncertainty replaces confidence and self identity. The joys of living are more or less put on hold while living as long as possible is pursued.   A Time to Live  honors whatever life prolonging choices are being made while at the same time suggesting we look at the gifts life offers each day. A Time To Live: Living With Life Limiting Illness - BK Books For other ...

  What Is Integrative Oncology? Integrative oncology is a relatively new and rapidly growing field in cancer care. Over the past two decades, patient interest and clinical research have expanded its reach, leading to formal guidelines from major organizations like the Society for Integrative Oncology (SIO) and the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). Today, many comprehensive cancer centers—including City of Hope, Memorial Sloan Kettering, and MD Anderson—offer integrative services such as acupuncture, massage, nutrition counseling, and mind-body therapies alongside conventional treatments. While implementation varies widely, integrative oncology is no longer just experimental—it’s becoming part of mainstream supportive care. 🧩 Key Components of Integrative Oncology Nutrition and Supplements : Tailored dietary guidance and, when appropriate, evidence-based supplements to support immune function and recovery. Mind-Body Therapies : Practices like meditation, yoga, guide...