Colon Cancer
Develops from the lining of the large intestine (colon) many times where colon polyps have formed. These tumors usually grow slowly, but may reach very large sizes. The cancer can obstruct the intestinal tract and/or spread to nearby organs with the liver being most commonly involved. Detection of these cancers is readily done through colonoscopy. The earlier these cancers are detected the more likelihood the patient will survive the disease. Colon cancer is rare in patients less than 50. Other risks for this disorder include: inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease), family history of colon cancer, having other cancers, eating a low fiber diet, African-American descent, alcohol use, smoking, and familial adenomatous polyposis.
Prostate Cancer
The prostate gland is located at the base of the bladder and it surrounds the urethra. The gland is an important source of fluid to the semen. The gland can become enlarged from non-cancerous growth (Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy), infection or cancer. Prostate cancer is prevalent and usually seen in patients over 60. Screening tests (PSA, AMACR) exists, and when used with regular exams can detect the cancer early. The cancer can metastasize and cause death.
Diabetes
A chronic disease of metabolism distinguished by the body’s inability to produce enough insulin, and/or a resistance to the insulin being made. Insulin is necessary for body cells to transport sugars to the cells and in order to process carbohydrates, fat, and protein efficiently. Patients with diabetes have too much glucose in their circulation causing damage to almost every organ in their body. There are three types of diabetes: Type 1 is usually found in younger patients and requires insulin, Type 2 develops later in life and is more commonly associated with obesity, and gestational diabetes is associated with pregnancy.
Kidney Disease
An inherited renal disorder characterized by the presence of multiple cysts in both kidneys. Cysts are noncancerous round sacs containing water-like fluid. Cysts can develop in other organs. The most serious effects of the disease are kidney failure and high blood pressure. Some patients have increase risk of developing cerebral aneurysms.
Hypertension
A termed used for high blood pressure. There are two numbers with the first number representing the systolic pressure (considered normal less than 140) and the second number the diastolic (considered normal if less than 90). Hypertension causes few symptoms but can result in serious long term problems including heart attacks, stroke and kidney failure.
HIV/AIDS
HIV infection is a life threatening disease caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The condition gradually destroys the immune system, preventing the body from fighting off infections. Most patients die of an overwhelming infection. There is no cure or vaccine but special anti-viral medications can keep the virus under control.
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a cancer that starts in the cells of the breast in women and men. This is the second most common type of cancer in women. There are many different types of breast cancer with ductal carcinoma being the most frequent. Early detection and treatment is the key to successful treatment of this disease.
Ovarian Cancer
A malignant growth in the ovary. Early in the disease the symptoms are mild and nonspecific making early detection difficult as a result the cancer is frequently advanced when first diagnosed. It is most common after age 50, but can occur at any age. There are many different types of ovarian cancer, but the epithelial tumors are most common and are the most aggressive.