Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

What Is Liquid Biopsy? New Blood Test That Can Help Detect, Treat Cancer Faster

Cancer therapy is ever-evolving with new tests, treatments and pills- and in the middle of it is a revolutionary technology known as <span>liquid biopsy</span>. Just to think of a simple blood test that can diagnose cancer in its early stages, predict how a tumor will respond to treatment, and help doctors to change medications before cancer has a chance to develop anew. That's no longer science fiction anymore. Liquid biopsy is transforming the way we detect and treat cancer giving new hope to patients and changing the face of oncology.

Unlike earlier biopsies, in which tissue has to be taken from the tumor itself—usually through surgery or needle biopsies—a liquid biopsy is as easy as a blood test. This blood is then tested for circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) or shed tumor cells in the blood. These bits contain the genetic material of the tumor and enable physicians to learn about the molecular nature of the cancer without gaining direct access to the tumor.

The latest versions of this test can even identify small, sinister changes in proteins—providing important clues about what a tumor might do and whether it is developing resistance to therapy.

A recent study published in The New England Journal of Medicine which was presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology annual meeting illustrates just how potent liquid biopsy can be. The study involved individuals with estrogen-fueled metastatic breast cancer—a sub-type that is generally treated with medications that attack specific proteins on cancer cells.

With time, tumors evolve and these mutations can make treatments ineffective. In the research, scientists employed liquid biopsies to identify such protein mutations as far back as nine months prior to when they could be seen on conventional imaging scans. Early detection enabled doctors to change treatments preemptively—radically enhancing outcomes.

We have highly effective treatments, but they have to wear off," said Dr. Nicholas Turner, the study's co-author and a professor of molecular oncology at The Royal Marsden Hospital. "If we can pick up the changes early, we can move quickly—before the cancer does any more damage."

<h2>How Liquid Biopsies Could Enhance Outcomes?</h2>

The research had 315 patients, all of whom had acquired mutations following treatment. The liquid biopsy findings influenced a change in treatment in half of the cohort, with the other half retaining treatment as before.

Patients who had changed their treatment were twice as likely to maintain their tumors at bay in the coming year. Liquid biopsies could identify mutations up to nine months before conventional scans. In 10% of the volunteers, the test showed their treatment was no longer working, before symptoms or scans could detect it.

These results indicate a significant change in the way we monitor cancer and make medication changes—equipping clinicians and patients with sooner insights and more tailored treatment alternatives.

While this most recent study focused on breast cancer, liquid biopsy is being designed for a broad spectrum of cancers. A case in point is lung cancer, where liquid biopsies are already producing results 16 days sooner than traditional tissue biopsies, based on pilot data from the UK's National Health Service (NHS).

This quicker turnaround enables patients to initiate life-extending, targeted treatments sooner—potentially avoiding the lag that allows cancer to develop further.

NHS National Clinical Director for Cancer, Professor Peter Johnson, captured the potential of liquid biopsies perfectly:

"They are taking us into a new age of personalized cancer treatment… and we can see the difference this test is already making."

In 2022, Australian scientists reported in The New England Journal of Medicine that liquid biopsy could predict whether individuals with early-stage colon cancer required chemotherapy following surgery. This enabled numerous patients to safely avoid chemotherapy, sparing them its energy-sapping side effects without sacrificing for treatment effectiveness.

Dr. Jeanne Tie, senior research fellow at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research in Australia and lead author of the study, underlined that liquid biopsies could soon become routine tools in early cancer treatment and management, but availability still differs around the world.

The secret of this groundbreaking test is its capacity for analyzing ctDNA, or pieces of tumor DNA circulating in the bloodstream. These pieces provide a molecular snapshot of the tumor, exposing important genetic mutations that reveal:

<ul><li>How aggressive the cancer is</li><li>Whether it's responding to current treatment</li><li>Which treatments are most likely to be effective</li></ul>

By detecting these changes earlier, liquid biopsies allow physicians to match patients with targeted treatments—drugs that are customized to a tumor's own individual genetic signature. Chief Scientific Officer for England Professor Dame Sue Hill welcomed this technology, "This technology is revolutionizing care and enabling clinicians to match patients sooner with potentially life-prolonging targeted therapies."

Liquid biopsy is not only a more accurate or quicker test—it's also cheaper and less invasive. One independent health economics review in the UK estimated that liquid biopsies would save the NHS as much as £11 million annually in lung cancer treatment alone.

Moreover, by minimizing the necessity for repeat scans, invasive biopsies, or cycles of unwanted chemotherapy, the test is also improving quality of life for many patients.

As the technology becomes even more advanced, researchers are looking to utilize it for:

<ul><li>Pancreatic and gallbladder cancer</li><li>Monitoring cancer growth and treatment response in real-time</li><li>Screening healthy people for early cancer signs—before symptoms even begin</li></ul>

Health Conditions A-Z

health

liquid biopsy

cancer blood test

tumor dna detection

metastatic breast cancer

personalized cancer care

early cancer diagnosis

ctdna testing

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Cancer therapy is ever-evolving with new tests, treatments and pills- and in the middle of it is a revolutionary technology known as liquid biopsy. Just to think of a simple blood test that can diagnose cancer in its early stages, predict how a tumor will respond to treatment, and help doctors to change medications before cancer has a chance to develop anew. That's no longer science fiction anymore. Liquid biopsy is transforming the way we detect and treat cancer giving new hope to patients and changing the face of oncology.Unlike earlier biopsies, in which tissue has to be taken from the tumor itself—usually through surgery or needle biopsies—a liquid biopsy is as easy as a blood test. This blood is then tested for circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) or shed tumor cells in the blood. These bits contain the genetic material of the tumor and enable physicians to learn about the molecular nature of the cancer without gaining direct access to the tumor.The latest versions of this test can even identify small, sinister changes in proteins—providing important clues about what a tumor might do and whether it is developing resistance to therapy.A recent study published in The New England Journal of Medicine which was presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology annual meeting illustrates just how potent liquid biopsy can be. The study involved individuals with estrogen-fueled metastatic breast cancer—a sub-type that is generally treated with medications that attack specific proteins on cancer cells.With time, tumors evolve and these mutations can make treatments ineffective. In the research, scientists employed liquid biopsies to identify such protein mutations as far back as nine months prior to when they could be seen on conventional imaging scans. Early detection enabled doctors to change treatments preemptively—radically enhancing outcomes.We have highly effective treatments, but they have to wear off," said Dr. Nicholas Turner, the study's co-author and a professor of molecular oncology at The Royal Marsden Hospital. "If we can pick up the changes early, we can move quickly—before the cancer does any more damage."How Liquid Biopsies Could Enhance Outcomes?The research had 315 patients, all of whom had acquired mutations following treatment. The liquid biopsy findings influenced a change in treatment in half of the cohort, with the other half retaining treatment as before.Patients who had changed their treatment were twice as likely to maintain their tumors at bay in the coming year. Liquid biopsies could identify mutations up to nine months before conventional scans. In 10% of the volunteers, the test showed their treatment was no longer working, before symptoms or scans could detect it.These results indicate a significant change in the way we monitor cancer and make medication changes—equipping clinicians and patients with sooner insights and more tailored treatment alternatives.While this most recent study focused on breast cancer, liquid biopsy is being designed for a broad spectrum of cancers. A case in point is lung cancer, where liquid biopsies are already producing results 16 days sooner than traditional tissue biopsies, based on pilot data from the UK's National Health Service (NHS).This quicker turnaround enables patients to initiate life-extending, targeted treatments sooner—potentially avoiding the lag that allows cancer to develop further.NHS National Clinical Director for Cancer, Professor Peter Johnson, captured the potential of liquid biopsies perfectly:"They are taking us into a new age of personalized cancer treatment… and we can see the difference this test is already making."In 2022, Australian scientists reported in The New England Journal of Medicine that liquid biopsy could predict whether individuals with early-stage colon cancer required chemotherapy following surgery. This enabled numerous patients to safely avoid chemotherapy, sparing them its energy-sapping side effects without sacrificing for treatment effectiveness.Dr. Jeanne Tie, senior research fellow at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research in Australia and lead author of the study, underlined that liquid biopsies could soon become routine tools in early cancer treatment and management, but availability still differs around the world.How Does Liquid Biopsy Work?The secret of this groundbreaking test is its capacity for analyzing ctDNA, or pieces of tumor DNA circulating in the bloodstream. These pieces provide a molecular snapshot of the tumor, exposing important genetic mutations that reveal:How aggressive the cancer isWhether it's responding to current treatmentWhich treatments are most likely to be effectiveBy detecting these changes earlier, liquid biopsies allow physicians to match patients with targeted treatments—drugs that are customized to a tumor's own individual genetic signature. Chief Scientific Officer for England Professor Dame Sue Hill welcomed this technology, "This technology is revolutionizing care and enabling clinicians to match patients sooner with potentially life-prolonging targeted therapies."Liquid biopsy is not only a more accurate or quicker test—it's also cheaper and less invasive. One independent health economics review in the UK estimated that liquid biopsies would save the NHS as much as £11 million annually in lung cancer treatment alone.Moreover, by minimizing the necessity for repeat scans, invasive biopsies, or cycles of unwanted chemotherapy, the test is also improving quality of life for many patients.As the technology becomes even more advanced, researchers are looking to utilize it for:Pancreatic and gallbladder cancerMonitoring cancer growth and treatment response in real-timeScreening healthy people for early cancer signs—before symptoms even begin

what is liquid biopsy? new blood test that can help detect, treat cancer faster

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The COVID-19 pandemic may feel like a chapter we’re slowly closing, but the virus continues to evolve, reminding us that the story is far from over. A new variant of the virus, NB.1.8.1, has recently been confirmed in the United Kingdom and is steadily appearing in various parts of the world—including the United States, Australia, Thailand, and parts of Asia and North Africa. First detected in January 2025, the Omicron subvariant has now become a global phenomenon, leading health officials to release new advisories, especially for travelers.

NB.1.8.1 is a new sublineage of the Omicron family, which has been the leading group of SARS-CoV-2 variants for several years. While it initially appeared in genetic surveillance data at the beginning of 2025, confirmed cases began to emerge more noticeably by April. It has been officially declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a "variant under monitoring," noting its rising rate of detection and susceptibility to avoiding immunity elicited from past infections or vaccination.

Today, NB.1.8.1 accounts for around 10.7% of all sequenced infections worldwide. Seven confirmed cases have appeared in Northern Ireland alone in the UK, and experts are monitoring its spread very closely. Its increasing circulation quickly has also brought questions regarding its behavior, contagiousness, and—most particularly—its symptoms.

Following virologists and evidence from GISAID, NB.1.8.1 could have an increased capacity to infect human cells more effectively compared to some of its Omicron ancestors. This doesn't always mean it is more severe, but it will make the variant more infectious, particularly in densely populated indoor environments or areas where immunity is low.

The WHO has underscored that variant dynamics have also changed significantly since the start of 2025. Previously prevalent strains such as XEC and LP.8.1 are now being replaced by NB.1.8.1, particularly in places such as China and Hong Kong where this subvariant has rapidly emerged as dominant.

<h2>What Makes NB.1.8.1 Symptoms Different?</h2>

Although most symptoms are similar to other COVID-19 strains, the distinguishing factor of NB.1.8.1 is that it is more likely to cause gastrointestinal symptoms. Evidence in the UK and forthcoming international data suggest an uptick in cases presenting with symptoms of:

<ul><li>Diarrhea</li><li>Constipation</li><li>Nausea or vomiting</li><li>Abdominal pain and bloating</li><li>Heartburn</li></ul>

These symptoms, though not entirely novel to COVID-19, are increasingly being reported in NB.1.8.1 cases. This change is leading experts to encourage physicians and patients to be sensitive to digestive complaints that might otherwise be misdiagnosed as foodborne illness or a stomach bug.

<h2>Recognizing The Unusual Symptoms of NB.1.8.1</h2>

Besides gastrointestinal distress, the NB.1.8.1 variant may also exhibit a broad spectrum of respiratory and systemic symptoms:

<ul><li>High temperature or chills</li><li>Coughing that doesn't go away</li><li>Breathing that is short</li><li>Loss or change of smell and taste</li><li>Sore throat</li><li>Headache</li><li>Aching of muscles</li><li>Runny nose or congestion</li><li>Fatigue</li><li>Loss of appetite</li></ul>

Note that although the occurrence of uncommon gastrointestinal symptoms could be used to distinguish NB.1.8.1, the majority of cases still mimic typical presentations of COVID-19. Therefore, proper diagnosis via testing is still vital.

<h2>Is the New Variant More Dangerous?</h2>

To date, there is no indication that NB.1.8.1 causes more serious illness or greater hospitalization than other Omicron subvariants. Nevertheless, its efficiency in spreading and in exhibiting symptoms that will not necessarily lead to COVID testing is a variant to monitor.

Immunologists are most interested in how it has the ability to partially evade immunity, something which could cause more breakthrough infections within vaccinated or previously infected people. 

<h2>What Are The Precautions Travelers Must Take?</h2>

For tourists, particularly to countries with an upsurge of NB.1.8.1 infections such as the US, Australia, Egypt, the Maldives, and Southeast Asia, caution is the word. Although there are no fresh travel restrictions or bans introduced, public health officials suggest a number of precautionary measures:

<ul><li>Be aware of local COVID-19 guidelines at your destination.</li><li>Bring lateral flow tests and masks, especially while moving about airports or using public transportation.</li><li>Practise diligent hand hygiene and limit time in enclosed or crowded spaces.</li><li>Consider COVID-specific travel insurance, covering cancellations or health emergencies abroad.</li><li>Monitor your health and delay travel if symptomatic.</li><li>Travelers from the UK, in particular, are being urged to remain alert and informed as NB.1.8.1 spreads in popular vacation destinations.</li></ul>

Even as COVID-19 has become part of the everyday background, NB.1.8.1 is a reminder that the virus remains in motion. For high-risk groups—the elderly or immunocompromised—the threat is still real, and so is the call for public health awareness.

NB.1.8.1 isn't seen as more fatal, but its spreading and uncharacteristic symptoms render it a virus that requires concern, not hysteria. It all comes down to being informed, being aware of symptoms, particularly those that may sense unusual and taking preventative health care when abroad or ill.

nb.1.8.1 covid variant

strange covid symptoms

unusual covid signs

new covid strain 2025

gastrointestinal covid symptoms

omicron subvariant nb.1.8.1

covid variant in uk

The COVID-19 pandemic may feel like a chapter we’re slowly closing, but the virus continues to evolve, reminding us that the story is far from over. A new variant of the virus, NB.1.8.1, has recently been confirmed in the United Kingdom and is steadily appearing in various parts of the world—including the United States, Australia, Thailand, and parts of Asia and North Africa. First detected in January 2025, the Omicron subvariant has now become a global phenomenon, leading health officials to release new advisories, especially for travelers.NB.1.8.1 is a new sublineage of the Omicron family, which has been the leading group of SARS-CoV-2 variants for several years. While it initially appeared in genetic surveillance data at the beginning of 2025, confirmed cases began to emerge more noticeably by April. It has been officially declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a "variant under monitoring," noting its rising rate of detection and susceptibility to avoiding immunity elicited from past infections or vaccination.Today, NB.1.8.1 accounts for around 10.7% of all sequenced infections worldwide. Seven confirmed cases have appeared in Northern Ireland alone in the UK, and experts are monitoring its spread very closely. Its increasing circulation quickly has also brought questions regarding its behavior, contagiousness, and—most particularly—its symptoms.How Does NB.1.8.1 Spread?Following virologists and evidence from GISAID, NB.1.8.1 could have an increased capacity to infect human cells more effectively compared to some of its Omicron ancestors. This doesn't always mean it is more severe, but it will make the variant more infectious, particularly in densely populated indoor environments or areas where immunity is low.The WHO has underscored that variant dynamics have also changed significantly since the start of 2025. Previously prevalent strains such as XEC and LP.8.1 are now being replaced by NB.1.8.1, particularly in places such as China and Hong Kong where this subvariant has rapidly emerged as dominant.What Makes NB.1.8.1 Symptoms Different?Although most symptoms are similar to other COVID-19 strains, the distinguishing factor of NB.1.8.1 is that it is more likely to cause gastrointestinal symptoms. Evidence in the UK and forthcoming international data suggest an uptick in cases presenting with symptoms of:DiarrheaConstipationNausea or vomitingAbdominal pain and bloatingHeartburnThese symptoms, though not entirely novel to COVID-19, are increasingly being reported in NB.1.8.1 cases. This change is leading experts to encourage physicians and patients to be sensitive to digestive complaints that might otherwise be misdiagnosed as foodborne illness or a stomach bug.Recognizing The Unusual Symptoms of NB.1.8.1Besides gastrointestinal distress, the NB.1.8.1 variant may also exhibit a broad spectrum of respiratory and systemic symptoms:High temperature or chillsCoughing that doesn't go awayBreathing that is shortLoss or change of smell and tasteSore throatHeadacheAching of musclesRunny nose or congestionFatigueLoss of appetiteNote that although the occurrence of uncommon gastrointestinal symptoms could be used to distinguish NB.1.8.1, the majority of cases still mimic typical presentations of COVID-19. Therefore, proper diagnosis via testing is still vital.Is the New Variant More Dangerous?To date, there is no indication that NB.1.8.1 causes more serious illness or greater hospitalization than other Omicron subvariants. Nevertheless, its efficiency in spreading and in exhibiting symptoms that will not necessarily lead to COVID testing is a variant to monitor.Immunologists are most interested in how it has the ability to partially evade immunity, something which could cause more breakthrough infections within vaccinated or previously infected people. What Are The Precautions Travelers Must Take?For tourists, particularly to countries with an upsurge of NB.1.8.1 infections such as the US, Australia, Egypt, the Maldives, and Southeast Asia, caution is the word. Although there are no fresh travel restrictions or bans introduced, public health officials suggest a number of precautionary measures:Be aware of local COVID-19 guidelines at your destination.Bring lateral flow tests and masks, especially while moving about airports or using public transportation.Practise diligent hand hygiene and limit time in enclosed or crowded spaces.Consider COVID-specific travel insurance, covering cancellations or health emergencies abroad.Monitor your health and delay travel if symptomatic.Travelers from the UK, in particular, are being urged to remain alert and informed as NB.1.8.1 spreads in popular vacation destinations.Even as COVID-19 has become part of the everyday background, NB.1.8.1 is a reminder that the virus remains in motion. For high-risk groups—the elderly or immunocompromised—the threat is still real, and so is the call for public health awareness.NB.1.8.1 isn't seen as more fatal, but its spreading and uncharacteristic symptoms render it a virus that requires concern, not hysteria. It all comes down to being informed, being aware of symptoms, particularly those that may sense unusual and taking preventative health care when abroad or ill.

new covid variant nb.1.8.1 confirmed in uk: what are the unusual symptoms you must know?

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British pop star Jessie J—best known for her powerhouse vocals and unfiltered honesty recently took to Instagram to share her stage-one breast cancer diagnosis, fans everywhere were left both shocked and motivated. The 37-year-old singer-songwriter, born Jessica Cornish, announced the news in typical frankness, mixing vulnerability with as she explained the surgery she'd be having after performing at Capital's Summertime Ball at London's Wembley Stadium.

Though her confession highlights the psychological burden of battling cancer under the spotlight, it also brings attention to an important discussion: the early warning signs of breast cancer that women so often miss. As a global health epidemic that claims millions of lives each year, breast cancer is more than mere lumps. The initial symptoms are often silent, confused, or ignored—particularly by young women.

In her heartfelt video message, Jessie shared that she has been “in and out of tests” recently and ultimately received a diagnosis of early breast cancer. “Cancer sucks in any form,” she said, “but I’m holding on to the word early.”

With a nod of dark humor, she added, "It's a very dramatic way to get a boob job," vowing followers, "I will come back with massive boobs and more music." But under the humor lay raw emotion and an earnest appeal for sympathy and understanding. "I need to process it and talk about it," she said. "I need a hug."

Having struggled with a string of serious health problems in the past, including a childhood heart condition, a stroke at age 18, Meniere's disease, and even recently being diagnosed with ADHD and OCD, Jessie J is certainly no newcomer to working through health problems. But this latest installment has introduced her to an even more intimate, more personal view.

By disclosing her diagnosis, Jessie J is part of a rising number of public figures using their influence to make health screening and breast cancer discussions more mainstream. Such openness is particularly important in light of the fact that many young women still unrealistically believe breast cancer is an "older woman's disease."

Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in the world and the major cause of cancer death among women, reports the World Health Organization. But even with worldwide awareness efforts, delayed diagnosis remains a big issue. And that delay has part to do with failing to notice—or completely ignore—the warning signs.

<h2>What Are the Signs Women Typically Ignore?</h2>

While a breast lump is usually the most talked-about symptom, breast cancer has many other manifestations. These less common symptoms are important to recognize, particularly for women who might not think of themselves as high-risk.

<h4>1. Swelling in the arm or collarbone area</h4>

A subtle but significant indication is repeated swelling in the underarm or near the collarbone. This can suggest that cancer has spread to the lymph nodes—even when there is as yet no lump in the breast. Although the swelling could be minor or painless, any puffiness that is apparent and does not resolve should be investigated.

<h4>2. Recurring Breast or Chest Pain</h4>

Contrary to what many believe, breast cancer may be painful. Pain that isn't related to your menstrual cycle or physical exertion—particularly sharp, burning, or persistent dull pain—can't be ignored. Although not all breast pain indicates cancer, persistent pain warrants investigation.

<h4>3. Persistent Itchiness and Skin Changes</h4>

Persistent itchiness of the armpit or breast—especially if it is followed by redness, scaling, or swelling—may indicate inflammatory breast cancer, which is a rare but vicious type. Topical remedies that fail and localized itchiness warrant a visit to the doctor.

<h4>4. Persistent, Unexplained Fatigue</h4>

Fatigue is one of the most misdiagnosed symptoms. With the speed of life these days, it's simple to assume tiredness is caused by stress, parenting, or sleeplessness. However, persistent fatigue that is unrelieved by rest could be a sign your body is struggling with an underlying illness, such as cancer.

<h4>5. Inverted Nipple or Nipple Discharge</h4>

Any abrupt nipple changes, like turning inward or flattening, might mean that a tumor is putting pressure on the milk ducts. Similarly, spontaneous nipple discharge, particularly if bloody or unprovoked—must never be left unattended. Such symptoms might appear insignificant but can actually point to significant underlying problems.

Medical experts consistently stress the importance of becoming familiar with your own breast tissue and regularly performing self-exams. According to the UK’s NHS and the American Cancer Society, early detection is the most effective defense. That means not only attending routine mammograms after age 40 (or earlier if you’re high risk) but also being proactive about any bodily changes.

It's not just about finding a lump. It's about recognizing when something doesn't feel right—and trusting yourself enough to speak up.

Jessie J's choice to come forward wasn't for healing herself alone—it was to make others feel less isolated. "I also know how much sharing in the past has helped me," she explained. "People giving me their love and support and also their own stories."

jessie j breast cancer

early breast cancer signs

breast cancer symptoms

celebrity health news

signs of breast cancer in women

breast cancer awareness

female health issues

British pop star Jessie J—best known for her powerhouse vocals and unfiltered honesty recently took to Instagram to share her stage-one breast cancer diagnosis, fans everywhere were left both shocked and motivated. The 37-year-old singer-songwriter, born Jessica Cornish, announced the news in typical frankness, mixing vulnerability with as she explained the surgery she'd be having after performing at Capital's Summertime Ball at London's Wembley Stadium.Though her confession highlights the psychological burden of battling cancer under the spotlight, it also brings attention to an important discussion: the early warning signs of breast cancer that women so often miss. As a global health epidemic that claims millions of lives each year, breast cancer is more than mere lumps. The initial symptoms are often silent, confused, or ignored—particularly by young women.In her heartfelt video message, Jessie shared that she has been “in and out of tests” recently and ultimately received a diagnosis of early breast cancer. “Cancer sucks in any form,” she said, “but I’m holding on to the word early.”With a nod of dark humor, she added, "It's a very dramatic way to get a boob job," vowing followers, "I will come back with massive boobs and more music." But under the humor lay raw emotion and an earnest appeal for sympathy and understanding. "I need to process it and talk about it," she said. "I need a hug."Having struggled with a string of serious health problems in the past, including a childhood heart condition, a stroke at age 18, Meniere's disease, and even recently being diagnosed with ADHD and OCD, Jessie J is certainly no newcomer to working through health problems. But this latest installment has introduced her to an even more intimate, more personal view.By disclosing her diagnosis, Jessie J is part of a rising number of public figures using their influence to make health screening and breast cancer discussions more mainstream. Such openness is particularly important in light of the fact that many young women still unrealistically believe breast cancer is an "older woman's disease."Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in the world and the major cause of cancer death among women, reports the World Health Organization. But even with worldwide awareness efforts, delayed diagnosis remains a big issue. And that delay has part to do with failing to notice—or completely ignore—the warning signs.What Are the Signs Women Typically Ignore?While a breast lump is usually the most talked-about symptom, breast cancer has many other manifestations. These less common symptoms are important to recognize, particularly for women who might not think of themselves as high-risk.1. Swelling in the arm or collarbone areaA subtle but significant indication is repeated swelling in the underarm or near the collarbone. This can suggest that cancer has spread to the lymph nodes—even when there is as yet no lump in the breast. Although the swelling could be minor or painless, any puffiness that is apparent and does not resolve should be investigated.2. Recurring Breast or Chest PainContrary to what many believe, breast cancer may be painful. Pain that isn't related to your menstrual cycle or physical exertion—particularly sharp, burning, or persistent dull pain—can't be ignored. Although not all breast pain indicates cancer, persistent pain warrants investigation.3. Persistent Itchiness and Skin ChangesPersistent itchiness of the armpit or breast—especially if it is followed by redness, scaling, or swelling—may indicate inflammatory breast cancer, which is a rare but vicious type. Topical remedies that fail and localized itchiness warrant a visit to the doctor.4. Persistent, Unexplained FatigueFatigue is one of the most misdiagnosed symptoms. With the speed of life these days, it's simple to assume tiredness is caused by stress, parenting, or sleeplessness. However, persistent fatigue that is unrelieved by rest could be a sign your body is struggling with an underlying illness, such as cancer.5. Inverted Nipple or Nipple DischargeAny abrupt nipple changes, like turning inward or flattening, might mean that a tumor is putting pressure on the milk ducts. Similarly, spontaneous nipple discharge, particularly if bloody or unprovoked—must never be left unattended. Such symptoms might appear insignificant but can actually point to significant underlying problems.Medical experts consistently stress the importance of becoming familiar with your own breast tissue and regularly performing self-exams. According to the UK’s NHS and the American Cancer Society, early detection is the most effective defense. That means not only attending routine mammograms after age 40 (or earlier if you’re high risk) but also being proactive about any bodily changes.It's not just about finding a lump. It's about recognizing when something doesn't feel right—and trusting yourself enough to speak up.Jessie J's choice to come forward wasn't for healing herself alone—it was to make others feel less isolated. "I also know how much sharing in the past has helped me," she explained. "People giving me their love and support and also their own stories."

pop star jessie j diagnosed with  early-stage breast cancer; what are the signs women often ignore?

Aarushi Bhadury

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Foods That Are The Best Hay Fever Cures You Must Have For Allergy Season

foods that are the best hay fever cures you must have for allergy season

Traditionally and otherwise too, what is usually used to treat open wounds, <span>fish skin grafts</span> have gained a lot of popularity in the research and medicine community. Research, like the study from 2023, published in the journal Cureus, showed that using fish skin graft helped wounds heal faster and reduce pain. Not only is it readily available, but it is also inexpensive to produce. The Nature, scientific reports explained that the highly porous nature of the fish skin is well suited to support cell ingrowth. While it has been used many times for different types of medical emergencies, the use of it on newborns had not been considered until this case. 

Born premature at just 23 weeks and weighing only one pound, Eliana DeVos faced immense challenges from the beginning. Speaking to the CNN News, Eliana’s mom, Krystal DeVos, explained that Eliana had spent 131 days in neonatal intensive care, where she developed a severe, rapidly spreading infection on her neck. Her mom described it as "almost like a flesh-eating disease" that nearly claimed her life, leading to dangerous sepsis. As Eliana's condition deteriorated, her family and doctors desperately sought a solution. 

The treatment option the doctor chose, although unconventional, had a lot of hope. Doctors chose to use fish skin to heal her wound. The pediatric plastic surgeon, explained that Eliana was too fragile for traditional surgery or a human skin graft due to her prematurity and the extensive wound. 

Instead, the doctor and the wound care nurse opted for a medical honey solution to clean the wound, followed by the application of medical-grade fish skin. This product, made from wild North Atlantic cod by the Icelandic company Kerecis, acts as a scaffold for new skin tissue to grow. Its structure is remarkably similar to human skin, and it's rich in omega oils and other natural healing elements. The remarkable thing about this fish skin graft 

<h2>How Does A Fish Skin Graft Work? </h2>

Doctors believe Eliana was likely the first preemie of her size to receive this innovative treatment. While fish skin has been used globally for wound care, its application in children, particularly infants as tiny as Eliana, is uncommon. 

 Doctors highlighted that other animal tissues, known as xenografts, which are from animals like pigs or cows, are also used for wound healing. These don't replace skin but serve as temporary dressings to promote cleanliness and initiate healing. However, experts cautioned that not all wounds respond to these methods. 

A significant concern with such treatments, especially in infants, is the potential for unknown allergies, particularly to fish. The biggest risk the doctors were worried about was the unknown allergy risk. If the baby had a fish allergy, it could’ve made things a lot more difficult. They also noted that even with these treatments, there's still a possibility that surgery might be necessary. 

<h2>Recovery and Recuperation For the Infant </h2>

For Eliana's mom, the experience has been incredibly inspiring. She hopes people will recognize the immense value of modern medicine and the power of faith. She explained how immensely worried she was, however, it never stopped her from trying something new. She encourages people to try something new and be open-minded. 

Fish Skin Grafts Saves Infant’s Life

Fish Skin for Life Threatening Wound

Fish Skin Grafts

Fish Skin Grafts for open wounds

how to heal open wounds

can fish skin help wound healing

Traditionally and otherwise too, what is usually used to treat open wounds, fish skin grafts have gained a lot of popularity in the research and medicine community. Research, like the study from 2023, published in the journal Cureus, showed that using fish skin graft helped wounds heal faster and reduce pain. Not only is it readily available, but it is also inexpensive to produce. The Nature, scientific reports explained that the highly porous nature of the fish skin is well suited to support cell ingrowth. While it has been used many times for different types of medical emergencies, the use of it on newborns had not been considered until this case. Born premature at just 23 weeks and weighing only one pound, Eliana DeVos faced immense challenges from the beginning. Speaking to the CNN News, Eliana’s mom, Krystal DeVos, explained that Eliana had spent 131 days in neonatal intensive care, where she developed a severe, rapidly spreading infection on her neck. Her mom described it as "almost like a flesh-eating disease" that nearly claimed her life, leading to dangerous sepsis. As Eliana's condition deteriorated, her family and doctors desperately sought a solution. An Unconventional Treatment The treatment option the doctor chose, although unconventional, had a lot of hope. Doctors chose to use fish skin to heal her wound. The pediatric plastic surgeon, explained that Eliana was too fragile for traditional surgery or a human skin graft due to her prematurity and the extensive wound. Instead, the doctor and the wound care nurse opted for a medical honey solution to clean the wound, followed by the application of medical-grade fish skin. This product, made from wild North Atlantic cod by the Icelandic company Kerecis, acts as a scaffold for new skin tissue to grow. Its structure is remarkably similar to human skin, and it's rich in omega oils and other natural healing elements. The remarkable thing about this fish skin graft How Does A Fish Skin Graft Work? Doctors believe Eliana was likely the first preemie of her size to receive this innovative treatment. While fish skin has been used globally for wound care, its application in children, particularly infants as tiny as Eliana, is uncommon.  Doctors highlighted that other animal tissues, known as xenografts, which are from animals like pigs or cows, are also used for wound healing. These don't replace skin but serve as temporary dressings to promote cleanliness and initiate healing. However, experts cautioned that not all wounds respond to these methods. A significant concern with such treatments, especially in infants, is the potential for unknown allergies, particularly to fish. The biggest risk the doctors were worried about was the unknown allergy risk. If the baby had a fish allergy, it could’ve made things a lot more difficult. They also noted that even with these treatments, there's still a possibility that surgery might be necessary. Recovery and Recuperation For the Infant For Eliana's mom, the experience has been incredibly inspiring. She hopes people will recognize the immense value of modern medicine and the power of faith. She explained how immensely worried she was, however, it never stopped her from trying something new. She encourages people to try something new and be open-minded. 

Fish Skin Grafts Saves Infant From Life Threatening Wound

fish skin grafts saves infant’s from life threatening wound

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