The use of medicinal marijuana has always been a controversial topic, but when the U.S. Attorney General set forth guidelines urging more states to be more lenient of medicinal users last year, it has become a hot political topic. Despite it's strong support from the medical oncologic community, some people strongly oppose medicinal marijuana. They claim it is highly addictive and a gateway drug

I certainly believe that marijuana is addictive and can be a gateway drug for those who use the drug recreationally. People with cancer, however, do not use marijuana to get high. The goal is to control the pain, relieve the nausea, and hopefully stimulate the appetite.  It is certainly difficult to completely understand the stress, frustration, and decline of the quality of life that people with cancer endure without experiencing it for yourself  or witnessing a loved one go through it. I have known several cancer patients who used medicinal marijuana legally and have found immense, immediate relief. They only required one medication (medicinal marijuana) to combat treatment side effects instead of 4-5 pharmaceutical drugs.

With that being said, how do you feel about medicinal marijuana?

A new study claims that professional painters are faced with a higher risk of bladder cancer than those in other occupations. The findings, which were reported in Occupational and Environmental Medicine July 20, reveal that those who paint, hang wallpaper, apply glazes, and other wall treatments face up to a 30 percent increase in risk. The study also determined that those who worked longer in the painting industry had more of a risk than those who did on a shorter term.

Why the spike for painters? Researchers believe that it is likely due to the chemicals in the paint and other products needed for painting. The exact chemicals have yet to be determined, but researchers say that many of the chemicals that painters are exposed to are the same carcinogens found in cigarettes. Painters aren't the only ones at risk of bladder cancer, however. Many other occupations, like hair dressers, truck drivers, and printers are also at an increased risk.

• What is Bladder Cancer?
• Bladder Cancer Symptoms

The Society of Thoracic Surgeons expects that 12,000-18,000 people will be diagnosed with esophageal cancer in the U.S. this year. Those drink alcohol, smoke, and suffer from chronic acid reflux need to be especially concerned with the symptoms of esophageal cancer. If you are at risk of developing esophageal cancer, take the time to learn the symptoms. While its not as common as many cancers, it does occur and unfortunately is often diagnosed in later stages. Esophageal Cancer Symptoms

Legendary gospel singer Walter Hawking has lost his battle with cancer. The 61 year Grammy winner had been fighting pancreatic cancer. He died in his California home July 11.

What You Need to Know About Pancreatic Cancer

I hope each of you take the time to learn about this devastating cancer, in hopes to raise awareness for yourself and those around you. People aren't as knowledgeable about pancreatic cancer as breast or prostate cancer, but it is just as a debilitating disease.

Unfortunately, there is often a delay in diagnosing pancreatic cancer because pancreatic cancer symptoms are similar to those of many other illnesses.

There are several risk factors for pancreatic cancer, including having diabetes and chronic pancreatitis. If you are at risk for pancreatic cancer, talk to your doctor about your risk factor and how to monitor for pancreatic cancer if needed. Keep in mind though that some people with pancreatic cancer do not have any clear risk factor or symptoms of the disease.

The bottom line is that if you are experiencing any pancreatic cancer symptoms, or anything unusual, see a doctor. Early detection is key with any condition!

A Journey with Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is not easy on anyone - it's takes such a physical and mental toll not only on the patient, but the family members as well. Guest author, Alison Doyle, (About's Job Searching Guide) speaks of her experience with pancreatic cancer in "Without Hope, We Have Nothing", a firsthand account about her father's battle with pancreatic cancer.

_{Photo courtesy of A.D.A.M. Health Encyclopedia}