Conventional Approaches
Generally, skin cancers are treated by surgery, electrodessication (burning), cryosurgery (freezing), or radiation.
Both basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas can be removed by scraping and burning the growth with an electric needle, or by cutting it out (under local anesthesia). If the growths are scar-like or recurrent, then a microscopically controlled surgery called Moh's surgery may be required. Actinic keratosis is often treated with liquid nitrogen.
Melanomas can be surgically removed and, if it has not spread, the cure rate is very high. However, you are at an increased risk of developing another melanoma. Regular skin examinations are recommended to detect any new growths early on.
The first type of Kaposi's sarcoma, if not occurring with any other symptoms, may not require treatment. However, the spot can be removed with liquid nitrogen or scraped and burned with an electric needle. Treatment is not often successful with the second type, and it does not tend to prolong the life of people with AIDS.
Amino Acids
Some studies suggest that arginine may display anti-tumour activity, due to its role in activating certain components of the immune system. L-arginine is found in brown rice, carob, coconut, dairy products, gelatin, meat, oatmeal, oats, nuts, raisins, sesame seeds, soy, sunflower seeds, wheat germ, whole wheat, and all protein-rich foods. L-arginine is available as part of a multi-amino acid complex and in protein powder supplements. Depending on the country in which you live, arginine may also be available as an isolated supplement in capsule or tablet form. You may require a prescription. NOTE: Supplementation should be avoided in pregnant or lactating women.
Antioxidants
Green tea is known to enhance the immune system and prevent many forms of cancer. It contains phenols that reduce the potential for cancer to metastasize. Green tea is non-toxic and inexpensive. Place 2 teaspoons of green tea leaves in one cup hot (not boiling) water and steep for 3 to 4 minutes. The longer the infusion, the more bitter green tea becomes. Boiling water destroys some of the beneficial elements of green tea. Allow the water to stop boiling before adding the leaves. Use a ceramic, glass, or earthenware mug. Drink 1 to 2 cups daily. If supplementing, take 250mg green tea extract daily. If choosing standardized extracts, look for preparations that contain 97% polyphenols. There are also several skin care products that are now available with green tea extract. It is still unclear as to what extent these topical applications of green tea protect the skin.
Melatonin has been shown to be protective against the DNA damage that can lead to cancer. It may be available in supplement form in various doses. Many government bodies currently ban this compound.
Herbs
Astragalus is known to boost immunity and fight cancer. An alkaloid extracted from Astragalus oxyphysys called swainsonine has been shown to inhibit the metastasis of melanoma both in vitro and in vivo. It seems to do so by enhancing natural killer cell function. Astragalus can also be used in conjunction with chemotherapy and can act as a protective factor against the side-effects of chemotherapy. To prepare a decoction, add 3 teaspoons to 3 cups water and bring to a boil. Simmer for 30 to 45 minutes. Strain and divide into 3 doses for the day. If supplementing, take 6g three times daily. If using in tincture form, take 20 to 30 drops three times daily.
Chaparral has been used for centuries by North American, Pima, and Maricopa Indians for the treatment of a variety of ailments. A group of doctors in Utah during the 1960's tried giving chaparral tea to various patients suffering from melanoma and other cancers. Some patients responded well to the treatment and had a significant decrease in tumour size, while others did not respond at all. Chaparral can be toxic to the liver and kidneys at a high enough dose, however. It also contains a resin that, when in contact with skin, can cause contact dermatitis in some individuals. Avoid if pregnant or lactating. To prepare an infusion, add 1 teaspoon of herb to 1 cup of water. Infuse for 10 minutes and take up to 3 times daily. If using in tincture form, add 10 to 20 drops to 1/4 cup of water. Take 3 times daily.
Garlic is known to have anti-tumour promoting activity. Several ingredients of garlic are responsible for this action, in addition to allicin. Studies show that garlic and onion consumption is correlated with a decrease in cancer death rate. Garlic can stimulate growth and proliferation of some beneficial cells in the body used to fight cancer. In vitro studies of melanoma cells show that garlic inhibits cancer cell growth by more than 50%. Aged garlic extract has also demonstrated protective action against radiation damage. Eat 2 to 4 cloves daily. If supplementing, take 600 to 1,200mg once or twice daily
Ginseng is found to have many anti-cancer properties. A study of panax ginseng demonstrated its ability to promote differentiation of cancer cells -- to return the aberrant cells back to normal function and appearance. Siberian ginseng can boost immunity and improve resistance to negative effects of both radiation and chemotherapy. It also seems to be non-toxic, and thus, can be used long-term through intensive cancer treatment. Avoid if lactating or pregnant.
European mistletoe extract has been used to treat cancer. It has been used in Europe and administered as subcutaneous injections over the course of many months to years. The preparation has been shown to stimulate the immune system, reduce tumour size, and kill cancer cells. It also improves the quality of life and survival. Consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner regarding this particular treatment.
Lifestyle
Skin cancer is almost always preventable. Keep babies under one year of age out of direct sunlight. Use a full-spectrum (both UVA and UVB) sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 (although it has been debated that some of the chemicals in sunscreens can cause cancer themselves, or that some exposure to the sun without protection is necessary for the production of vitamin D and its protective effects). Apply the sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before exposure, and reapply every 2 hours. Further, wear long sleeved shirts, long pants, and a wide brimmed hat when outdoors. Water, sand, cement, and snow can reflect up to 85% of the sun's rays, so be particularly cautious in such environments.
Azelaic acid is a substance found in rancid fat. In vitro studies demonstrate that it selectively attacks melanoma cells while leaving normal, healthy skin cells alone. Some doctors report that the use of azelaic acid caused the regression of malignant melanomas. It is thought to do so by interfering with the cancer cell energy supply and with cancer cell DNA.
Minimize your exposure to the sun during 10AM and 3PM, as UV rays are highest during this time of day.
Vitamins
Studies point to a link between vitamin A deficiency and cancer. It is unclear whether the deficiency promotes cancer, or if the cancer causes the deficiency. Regardless, vitamin A supplementation is beneficial. It has been shown to inhibit tumour promotion and tumour initiation. It also enhances the effect of chemotherapy while protecting from the side-effects of radiation therapy. If using vitamin A for the latter reason, take 50,000 IU per day in divided doses a few days before and during treatment. Several types of skin cancer respond well to topical applications of various vitamin A derivatives. In general, it is a good idea to increase you intake of beta-carotene- and vitamin A-rich foods.
Supplement with B complex vitamins, especially if you are undergoing chemotherapy, to counteract the malnutrition that is often brought on by this therapy. B vitamins are also essential for immune and nervous system functioning. Take 50mg daily (100mg is often not fully absorbed by the body). B complex injections may also be considered for better absorption. You must discuss this option with your naturopath or other health practitioner.
Some studies indicate that topical applications of a concentrated form of vitamin B6 may help treat melanomas. Ideal sources of B6 include avocados, bananas, beans, blackstrap molasses, brewer's yeast, brown rice, cabbage, chicken, corn, eggs, fish, meat, peas, potatoes, soy, spinach, walnuts, wheat bran, and wheat germ. If supplementing, take 50 to 100mg, in divided doses.
Vitamin C has been shown to be selectively toxic to melanoma cells in vitro. It also enhances white blood cell and NK cell activity, both imperative in your body's defense against cancer. Vitamin C is also necessary to convert vitamin D in the body to a useable form (see "Vitamin D" below). Take 10g (10,000mg) daily in divided doses, or to bowel tolerance.
Coenzyme Q10 has antioxidant properties and is known to stimulate the immune system. Deficiencies have been associated with the development of cancer. At lower doses, coenzyme Q10 can help patients experience less pain and weight-loss, a decrease in metastasis, and an increase in appetite. At higher doses it may promote tumour remission. Coenzyme Q10 is found in broccoli, meats, peanuts (not a recommended source), salmon sardines, and spinach. If supplementing, take 50 to 300mg daily, in divided doses.
Vitamin D is produced in the body when certain wavelengths of sunlight react to specific cells in the skin. It is interesting to note that sulfur dioxide, the main constituent of smog, absorbs those wavelengths of light that trigger vitamin D production in the skin, while allowing the harmful portion of the spectrum through. It seems to be common knowledge that excess sun exposure can cause cancer, but some studies suggest that too little exposure can be harmful as well. This may be due to the protective effects of vitamin D and if you are not receiving enough sunlight, your body may not have adequate supplies of this vitamin. Some studies suggest that brief, regular exposure to sunlight is beneficial in preventing melanoma. Vitamin D has also been shown to suppress the growth of melanoma cells in vitro. It seems to prevent small melanomas from developing in to clinically significant and detectable cases of cancer. Step outside and receive 10 to 15 minutes of sunlight per day, without sunscreen, as it blocks out the part of the spectrum necessary for the production of vitamin D.
Very low levels of vitamin E and beta-carotene have been noted in some people with melanoma. Vitamin E may prevent the growth of melanoma, and it can also protect you from the side-effects of chemotherapy. It is best to use selenium in conjunction with vitamin E to enhance its effects. Take 400 to 800 IU daily. Take 200 to 400mcg selenium as a complement. NOTE: Daily selenium intakes greater than 1000mcg can be toxic.
Folic acid helps increase the production of white blood cells that are necessary to fight against cancer cells. Take 400mcg daily.
In vitro studies suggest that vitamin K is effective in inhibiting tumour colony formation of melanoma cells. Vitamin K has also been shown to enhance the effects of some forms of chemotherapy. Ideal sources of vitamin K include asparagus, avocados, beef, broccoli, cabbage, dark green leafy vegetables, egg yolks, green tea, nuts, oatmeal, rye, seeds, soybeans, turnip greens, wheat, and wheat germ oil. Vitamin K is also found in kelp and alfalfa supplements and is available in some multi-vitamin/mineral preparations. If directly supplementing, take 100 to 300mcg daily in divided doses.
