We strive to bring you the most practical, relevant information and tools to help you be better informed before and after the diagnosis.
We are constantly adding new resources. Don’t see what you need or have a recommendation? Email us so we can share the information with others.
Please note – The AJCF does not guarantee the information contained on these sites and they do not constitute medical advice.
Lung Cancer – Know the Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of lung cancer can take years to develop and they may not appear until the disease is advanced. Everyone should be aware of their body normally feels and report any abnormal feelings to their doctor.
Symptoms of lung cancer may include:
- A new cough or a cough that does not go away. Smokers who have a chronic cough from smoking may have a change in how severe their cough is or how much they cough
- Chest, shoulder, or back pain that does not go away and often gets worse with deep breathing
- New wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Hoarseness
- Coughing up blood or bloody mucus
- Swelling in the neck and face
- Difficulty swallowing
- Weight loss and loss of appetite
- Increasing fatigue and weakness
- Recurring respiratory infections, such as pneumonia
Click here or more information. Often, these unusual feelings can be attributed to other causes, such as bronchitis. But a doctor should check anything that is worrisome.
Los Angeles Resources
Simms / Mann – UCLA Center for Integrative Oncology
The Simms/Mann UCLA Center for Integrative Oncology, which is part of the UCLA’s Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center and UCLA Oncology, was designed to help patients and family members optimize their wellness and address the challenges throughout the continuum of cancer care.
The Simms/Mann – UCLA Center for Integrative Oncology focuses on the needs of the whole person and their family. We understand that most patients want to optimize their wellness despite the challenges that cancer can bring. We know that patients often want to combine modalities and want and need information, guidance and support that addresses nutrition, supplements, mind/body approaches, psychological concerns and all matters of the mind, body, spirit and emotions. Our Center has a patient-centered model committed to facilitating partnership between patients and practitioners in the healing process.
American Lung Association
Lung cancer is a malignant tumor in the lungs. This means that the abnormal cells of the tumor grow without order or control. They destroy the healthy lung tissue around them.
Although some progress has been made in the treatment of lung cancer, it is still the most common cause of cancer death. In 2010, more than 222,000 new cases were expected to be diagnosed and about 157,000 Americans were expected to die from lung cancer.
The American Lung Association has developed this section of information for people living with lung cancer. We know that the more you learn about lung cancer, the better you and your loved ones can manage to live with this disease, making the most of every day, and maintain the quality of life that is important to you.
Mesothelioma Guide
Mesothelioma Guide – Mesothelioma Guide is a trusted resource and ally in the fight against mesothelioma. Our mission is to provide patients and their loved ones with answers, options, and health solutions that can improve their lives and diagnosis. With over a decade of experience, we do all that we can to serve the mesothelioma community in our commitment to create a better and more hopeful environment for patients and their families.Information includes treatment options, symptoms, and steps to take after a diagnosis.
Mesothelioma Center
Mesothelioma Center – Our website has the most up to date information on asbestos and all its negative health effects including mesothelioma. Information includes treatment options, symptoms, and steps to take after a diagnosis.
Cancer Support
Krishna Kaur
Krishna Kaur, a dynamic heart-centered Yoga teacher, began studying with Yogi Bhajan in 1970 and has been teaching the art and science of Kundalini Yoga and Self Awareness for 40 years. She is certified by the 3HO Foundation and the Kundalini Research Institute as a Kundalini Yoga Teacher and Trainer of both levels I and II. Prior to dedicating herself to yoga, she had a successful career in the theater, co-starring in the original Broadway hit Sweet Charity with Gwen Verdon and in Jean Genet’s The Blacks with Lou Gossett Jr. Krishna is based in Los Angeles and teaches yoga throughout the world.
Lucy Postolov
Lucy’s passion for helping others has her working with a wide variety of health issues including cancer, neuralgia, infertility, weight loss, menopause etc. She has been certified by NADA (National Acupuncture Detoxification Program) and works successfully with many different types of addiction. Her work with oncology patients was recognized by the Israel Cancer Research Fund and she was honored with the “Woman of Action” award in 1998. She has also appeared on numerous news programs as an expert in Traditional Oriental Medicine and has been featured on the KCET program Healthweek and ABC’s Good Day L.A. In 2008, Lucy contributed a chapter to the book “Guidebook of Sexual Medicine”.
Santa Monica Wellness Center
At The Santa Monica Wellness Center, we seek to educate patients and the community about ways to obtain and maintain optimum, abundant health; to enlighten their awareness to the amazing healing power of the human body, mind, and spirit; and to empower them to take control of their own health, achieving their fullest potential. It is our mission to provide patients with the highest quality Integrative Health Care, delivered with respect, integrity, and compassion.
Cancer Support Community (Benjamin Center)
The Wellness Community – West Los Angeles (TWC-WLA) is the founding facility of what is now the largest cancer support organization worldwide. Celebrating its 28th anniversary this year, our programs include support groups, stress reduction classes, individual counseling, educational workshops, and social activities for people with cancer & caregivers – all free of charge! Learn more at an Orientation Meeting, held Tuesdays from 7-9 pm, and Fridays from 11 am-1 pm. No reservations necessary.
Nutrition
Co-opportunity Market
Co-opportunity Market is the only cooperative natural grocer in the Los Angeles Metro area and has been a member-owned healthy living resource since 1974. Co-opportunity continues to be a community favorite for organic fare, raw foods, macrobiotics, coffees, teas, bulk foods, a delicious deli, health and beauty aids, homeopathic remedies, vitamins, and supplements. In all areas of its operations, through the products it sells, and in its interactions with the community, Co-opportunity is guided by its Ends Policies, which include providing for: the health and well-being of people, the health and well-being of the environment, and operations that are a model and an agent for change.
Dragon Herbs
Ron Teeguarden is the co-founder, with his wife Yanlin, and leader of Dragon Herbs, is widely recognized as one of the foremost herbalists in America. Ron has been a professional practitioner and teacher of the holistic Asian health arts since 1971. He has been a powerful translator of Eastern philosophy and health care techniques to ten’s of thousands of Americans for nearly four decades. He is recognized as the premier spokesperson for Chinese tonic herbalism in America, having spent decades teaching the concept that it is better to promote our health and well being than to become sick and then have to take remedial measures.
Pharmaca Integrative Pharmacy
At a time when health care costs are rising and employer-provided coverage is shrinking, Pharmaca is happy to be your everyday health resource. We provide easy access to credentialed pharmacists, naturopathic doctors, nutritionists, herbalists and more so you can achieve good health without an appointment, insurance or headache.
Since 2000, Pharmaca Integrative Pharmacy has offered traditional pharmacy services alongside holistic remedies, so customers can choose how they want to approach their health care (learn more about our history). Our staff of certified practitioners helps guide customers through our selection of over-the-counter medications, alternative remedies, and natural cosmetics and body care products for a stress-free shopping experience.
Local Farmers’ Market
Los Angeles Farmers Markets – Certified Farmers’ Markets, farmers, and fresh food consumers throughout the Los Angeles area. On this site, you can access information about individual markets, farmers, fresh produce, and monthly events. Discover the fresh food sources in your area, and learn more about eating and living healthy
Whole Foods Markets
We search for the highest quality, least processed, most flavorful and natural foods possible because we believe that food in its purest state — unadulterated by artificial additives, sweeteners, colorings and preservatives — is the best tasting and most nutritious food there is. Find a store near you: Learn more: Wholefoodsmarket.com
Erewhon Natural Foods Market
Erewhon Natural Foods Market is dedicated to providing the finest quality natural foods. Out of a deep concern for the health of you and your family, we maintain certain product standards. We specialize in organically-grown whole foods and healthy alternatives to conventional supermarket items. Also, people following special diets can find products that are wheat-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, macrobiotic, vegan, kosher, low-fat or low-carbohydrate.
CHANGE A LIFE TODAY
We can’t do it without your support in continuing to helping African American and Latina women of in South fighting cancer. Again, we hope you’ll consider the AJCF when making your next contributions.