Is it true a vaccine to end the threat of cervical cancer? Chock one up for modern science, maybe it is good that the Drug Companies are making such high profits after all and have so many lobbyists in Washington D.C. if they can keep solving these problems that plague mankind or in this case Womankind. And this is just the kind of thing woman can be happy for as it nixes one more type of cancer that could potentially take one’s life.
The vaccine is comes in three shots taken in series and is said to be 100% effective in preventing cervical cancer. The vaccine’s maker is Merch and Company and the vaccine protects against four viral strains. HPV or Human Papilloma Virus is the cause of cervical cancer and genital warts. Over two million Americans are carriers of some form of HPV, meaning it would not take very many partners to hurt the law of averages and put one at risk.
Cervical Cancer kills about 300,000 worldwide and about 4,000 each year in the United States. The vaccine is best taken before girls become sexually active, which ensures 100% protection. Modern medicine is making headway on many types of cancer and this latest breakthrough is an awesome thing. Some day human beings will not have to worry about cancer, until that day, each new cure, treatment or vaccine is one step closer to that goal. Think on it.
Lance Winslow
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lance_Winslow
Monday, July 31, 2006
ovarian cancer : Drinking Tea May Guard Against Ovarian Cancer
Consuming two or more cups of tea a day over a period of time may reduce the risk of ovarian cancer dramatically, suggests a new study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. And each additional cup of tea per day appears to provide significantly more protection, investigators found.
Because tea is the second most-consumed beverage in the world, its potential health benefits could have important implications for human health and disease prevention, says the Tea Council of the USA.
"An abundance of research suggests that tea may play a role in the reduction of risk of cardiovascular disease and various types of cancer," notes Joe Simrany, president of the trade organization. "These new findings suggest that drinking tea regularly may help to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer as well. This is good news and points to yet another area where tea may have a positive effect on health."
46 Percent Lower Ovarian Cancer Risk
Researchers at Sweden's National Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, examined the association between tea consumption and risk of ovarian cancer in 61,057 women 40 to 76 years of age who took part in the population-based Swedish Mammography Cohort.
The participants completed a validated 67-item food frequency questionnaire at enrollment between 1987 and 1990, and were followed for cancer incidence through December 2004.
At baseline, 68 percent of the participants reported drinking tea -- primarily black tea -- at least once a month. During 15.1 years of follow-up, 301 women were diagnosed as having epithelial ovarian cancer. The researchers found tea consumption of two or more cups of tea per day had a significant inverse association with risk of ovarian cancer.
Specifically, women who drank two or more cups of tea per day experienced a 46 percent lower risk of ovarian cancer, compared with women who drank no tea. Each additional cup of tea was associated with an 18 percent decreased risk of ovarian cancer.
Additional Health Benefits
A multitude of research studies suggest that drinking tea may contribute to overall health. Potential benefits include the following:
- Reduced risk of heart attack and stroke, and improved blood vessel function;
- Less risk of certain cancers, including colorectal and skin cancers;
- Decreased levels of oxidative DNA damage and increases in antioxidant levels in the bloodstream; and
- Oral health benefits -- researchers believe certain compounds in tea may inhibit bacteria that cause bad breath and plaque, and the fluoride content in tea supports healthy tooth enamel.
Nicole Weaver is a health journalist for Daily News Central, an online publication that delivers breaking news and reliable health information to consumers, healthcare providers and industry professionals.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nicole_Weaver
Because tea is the second most-consumed beverage in the world, its potential health benefits could have important implications for human health and disease prevention, says the Tea Council of the USA.
"An abundance of research suggests that tea may play a role in the reduction of risk of cardiovascular disease and various types of cancer," notes Joe Simrany, president of the trade organization. "These new findings suggest that drinking tea regularly may help to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer as well. This is good news and points to yet another area where tea may have a positive effect on health."
46 Percent Lower Ovarian Cancer Risk
Researchers at Sweden's National Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, examined the association between tea consumption and risk of ovarian cancer in 61,057 women 40 to 76 years of age who took part in the population-based Swedish Mammography Cohort.
The participants completed a validated 67-item food frequency questionnaire at enrollment between 1987 and 1990, and were followed for cancer incidence through December 2004.
At baseline, 68 percent of the participants reported drinking tea -- primarily black tea -- at least once a month. During 15.1 years of follow-up, 301 women were diagnosed as having epithelial ovarian cancer. The researchers found tea consumption of two or more cups of tea per day had a significant inverse association with risk of ovarian cancer.
Specifically, women who drank two or more cups of tea per day experienced a 46 percent lower risk of ovarian cancer, compared with women who drank no tea. Each additional cup of tea was associated with an 18 percent decreased risk of ovarian cancer.
Additional Health Benefits
A multitude of research studies suggest that drinking tea may contribute to overall health. Potential benefits include the following:
- Reduced risk of heart attack and stroke, and improved blood vessel function;
- Less risk of certain cancers, including colorectal and skin cancers;
- Decreased levels of oxidative DNA damage and increases in antioxidant levels in the bloodstream; and
- Oral health benefits -- researchers believe certain compounds in tea may inhibit bacteria that cause bad breath and plaque, and the fluoride content in tea supports healthy tooth enamel.
Nicole Weaver is a health journalist for Daily News Central, an online publication that delivers breaking news and reliable health information to consumers, healthcare providers and industry professionals.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nicole_Weaver
Thursday, July 27, 2006
ovarian cancer : Living With Cancer - Anyway
It’s a story many of us have heard before: a young woman is diagnosed with ovarian cancer (or some other horrible disease), goes through surgery and chemo, gets too sick to work, loses her job, and her health insurance eventually runs out. Heart-wrenching, for sure. Especially sad when the woman has a husband and two small children. But for cancer patient Kellie Main Foret, you just can’t make any assumptions or guess what her next move will be.
Diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2004, Foret has undergone several rounds of chemo, surgery, and all the other treatments her doctors feel are necessary. But this isn’t a story about cancer treatments, it’s a story about how this young woman has taken her current circumstance and turned it into something life-affirming and positive.
Foret started making custom jewelry pieces last fall before Christmas in order to raise money to buy her kids Christmas presents. The surprising twist was that her work was so unique and beautiful that it started gaining attention from local galleries and boutiques throughout the Detroit metro area. Soon, she was expanding her designs and original pieces until she had created a unique collection of original art jewelry pieces, all growing from her signature piece, “Tree of Life.”
“I designed the Tree of Life piece while I was going through chemotherapy for ovarian cancer,” said Foret. “To me, this piece represents all the roads we travel and how these journeys make each of us unique.
“I have so much to be thankful for. My Tree of Life continues to grow, and I hope my work adds something to other women’s lives that reassures them that they are unique and that everyday is special.”
One of her jewelry sets, called “My Angel,” is in memory of Foret’s chemo buddy who died a few weeks ago in November. All the proceeds from sales of this jewelry go to ovarian cancer research. “I know that in honoring my friend’s life, I am also doing something positive for other women who will benefit from ongoing research and an eventual cure for ovarian cancer,” said Foret.
Because of her initial success, Foret recently decided to open up an online store to sell her jewelry over the internet. The web site, www.pulsejewelry.com, just went live on November 19, 2005, and is already receiving and shipping orders for the holidays.
Not only is she busy designing and creating her art jewelry pieces, she has also been learning how to use the technology to maintain and run her online store, update and add new products, and fulfill orders using online shipping.
“I really love what I do, and I feel like I have such an exciting life,” said Foret. “My hope is that through my work, other women will enjoy these original jewelry pieces while knowing they are raising awareness and supporting one of the most important issues facing women today – ovarian cancer.”
Lauren Hobson is the Editor of Biz Talk Newsletter, a free monthly publication designed to provide small businesses and non-profits with tips and techniques to help them make the most of their web sites and marketing efforts without spending a lot of money. Biz Talk is published by Five Sparrows, LLC (http://www.fivesparrows.com). This article may be re-printed without cost provided that there are no changes to the content and is credited with the line, "Article by Lauren A. Hobson, http://www.fivesparrows.com. Copyright 2005, Five Sparrows, LLC. Used by Permission."
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lauren_Hobson
Diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2004, Foret has undergone several rounds of chemo, surgery, and all the other treatments her doctors feel are necessary. But this isn’t a story about cancer treatments, it’s a story about how this young woman has taken her current circumstance and turned it into something life-affirming and positive.
Foret started making custom jewelry pieces last fall before Christmas in order to raise money to buy her kids Christmas presents. The surprising twist was that her work was so unique and beautiful that it started gaining attention from local galleries and boutiques throughout the Detroit metro area. Soon, she was expanding her designs and original pieces until she had created a unique collection of original art jewelry pieces, all growing from her signature piece, “Tree of Life.”
“I designed the Tree of Life piece while I was going through chemotherapy for ovarian cancer,” said Foret. “To me, this piece represents all the roads we travel and how these journeys make each of us unique.
“I have so much to be thankful for. My Tree of Life continues to grow, and I hope my work adds something to other women’s lives that reassures them that they are unique and that everyday is special.”
One of her jewelry sets, called “My Angel,” is in memory of Foret’s chemo buddy who died a few weeks ago in November. All the proceeds from sales of this jewelry go to ovarian cancer research. “I know that in honoring my friend’s life, I am also doing something positive for other women who will benefit from ongoing research and an eventual cure for ovarian cancer,” said Foret.
Because of her initial success, Foret recently decided to open up an online store to sell her jewelry over the internet. The web site, www.pulsejewelry.com, just went live on November 19, 2005, and is already receiving and shipping orders for the holidays.
Not only is she busy designing and creating her art jewelry pieces, she has also been learning how to use the technology to maintain and run her online store, update and add new products, and fulfill orders using online shipping.
“I really love what I do, and I feel like I have such an exciting life,” said Foret. “My hope is that through my work, other women will enjoy these original jewelry pieces while knowing they are raising awareness and supporting one of the most important issues facing women today – ovarian cancer.”
Lauren Hobson is the Editor of Biz Talk Newsletter, a free monthly publication designed to provide small businesses and non-profits with tips and techniques to help them make the most of their web sites and marketing efforts without spending a lot of money. Biz Talk is published by Five Sparrows, LLC (http://www.fivesparrows.com). This article may be re-printed without cost provided that there are no changes to the content and is credited with the line, "Article by Lauren A. Hobson, http://www.fivesparrows.com. Copyright 2005, Five Sparrows, LLC. Used by Permission."
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lauren_Hobson
ovarian cancer : The Hidden Issues Of Ovarian Cancer
Dr Christiane Northrup has some interesting insights into the emotional and energetic issues associated with ovarian cancer. Whilst it is impossible to generalize emotional and energetic responses, she highlights the issue of rage in ovarian cancers. She describes the ovaries as being 'female balls' which means they relate to an active participation in the world in a way that expresses our unique creative potential, as women, on an individual basis.
She says: "...we as women must be open to the uniqueness of our creations and their own energies and impulses, without trying to force them into predetermined forms. Our ability to yield to our creativity, to acknowledge that we cannot control it with our intellects, is the key to understanding ovarian power." (p187, Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom)
She relates the issue of rage as deriving from being in an abusive relationship - not necessarily physically abusive, though of course this could be the case. And it may not necessarily be a personal or intimate relationship. It could be with work, societal, or even spiritual. But it embodies a way of relating and dealing with something or someone, where the woman involved feels controlled by the situation and does not believe in her ability to change it, or herself. It is a denial of her innate power and self-sovereignty. A denial of a woman's innate dignity, creativity, spirituality, and complexity.
Interestingly, Dr Northrup notes that ovarian cancer is linked to a diet high in fat and dairy food. Dairy products in Oriental medicine, are associated with the liver meridian. Meridians are energy conduits, and though they have a specific anatomy, they are not equated necessarily with the organs of the same name, as understood in conventional western medicine. The emotion associated with a liver meridian that is out of balance, is rage and anger.
Oriental medicine believes that diseases start in our energetic body first, and then progress to the physical body. And certainly not all women who have a high fat and high dairy diet develop ovarian cancer. Dr Northrup suggests that women take care of their ovaries and uterus by reclaiming and expressing whatever this deep creative energy is for them. She suggests taking the time to do this daily.
A recent scientific study has also found that drinking two cups or more of tea a day can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer by 46%. This study was done in Sweden over a 15 year period. Sweden is a country where there is a higher risk of ovarian cancer, as are other countries with a high dairy consumption (Denmark and Switzerland).
References:
http://www.nutraingredients-usa.com/news/ng.asp?id=64537
Dr Christiane Northrup, Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom (Piatkus, 1995)
If you'd like to read more about supplements, herbs, and a deeper understanding of why we get sick, check out this article. If you enjoy the health benefits of tea, read this to discover why green tea is so beneficial, and how green tea weight loss helps.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rebecca_Prescott
She says: "...we as women must be open to the uniqueness of our creations and their own energies and impulses, without trying to force them into predetermined forms. Our ability to yield to our creativity, to acknowledge that we cannot control it with our intellects, is the key to understanding ovarian power." (p187, Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom)
She relates the issue of rage as deriving from being in an abusive relationship - not necessarily physically abusive, though of course this could be the case. And it may not necessarily be a personal or intimate relationship. It could be with work, societal, or even spiritual. But it embodies a way of relating and dealing with something or someone, where the woman involved feels controlled by the situation and does not believe in her ability to change it, or herself. It is a denial of her innate power and self-sovereignty. A denial of a woman's innate dignity, creativity, spirituality, and complexity.
Interestingly, Dr Northrup notes that ovarian cancer is linked to a diet high in fat and dairy food. Dairy products in Oriental medicine, are associated with the liver meridian. Meridians are energy conduits, and though they have a specific anatomy, they are not equated necessarily with the organs of the same name, as understood in conventional western medicine. The emotion associated with a liver meridian that is out of balance, is rage and anger.
Oriental medicine believes that diseases start in our energetic body first, and then progress to the physical body. And certainly not all women who have a high fat and high dairy diet develop ovarian cancer. Dr Northrup suggests that women take care of their ovaries and uterus by reclaiming and expressing whatever this deep creative energy is for them. She suggests taking the time to do this daily.
A recent scientific study has also found that drinking two cups or more of tea a day can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer by 46%. This study was done in Sweden over a 15 year period. Sweden is a country where there is a higher risk of ovarian cancer, as are other countries with a high dairy consumption (Denmark and Switzerland).
References:
http://www.nutraingredients-usa.com/news/ng.asp?id=64537
Dr Christiane Northrup, Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom (Piatkus, 1995)
If you'd like to read more about supplements, herbs, and a deeper understanding of why we get sick, check out this article. If you enjoy the health benefits of tea, read this to discover why green tea is so beneficial, and how green tea weight loss helps.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rebecca_Prescott
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
ovarian cancer : It Whispers, So Listen
Ovarian cancer is the biggest killer amongst all of the female cancers. Nearly 80% of those treated for ovarian cancer will experience a recurrence. The chances of death within the first five years of treatment is nearly 50%, no matter if it is stage 2,3, or 4. These grim statistics are now a reality for my own life. I am an ovarian cancer survivor.
One reason ovarian cancer is so deadly is because it is very difficult to detect. Often, by the time it is diagnosed, the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. There is no reliable screening for ovarian cancer like there is for breast cancer and cervical cancer. It can only be detected through an exam by an Ob/Gyn. So, it is important for all women to make an effort to get those yearly exams.
There is a tumor marker,CA-125, in the blood that may show the presence of ovarian cancer. It is not used as a screening procedure because it is not reliable enough. However, in cases where a woman is at a high risk, the CA-125 marker may be used to alert a Dr. for further testing.
A woman's worst nightmare is the diagnosis of cancer. Yet, early detection is the best way to prevent any cancer from spreading and growing. Take care of yourself and take the time to get your yearly exam. It could save your life.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jean_Wensink
One reason ovarian cancer is so deadly is because it is very difficult to detect. Often, by the time it is diagnosed, the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. There is no reliable screening for ovarian cancer like there is for breast cancer and cervical cancer. It can only be detected through an exam by an Ob/Gyn. So, it is important for all women to make an effort to get those yearly exams.
There is a tumor marker,CA-125, in the blood that may show the presence of ovarian cancer. It is not used as a screening procedure because it is not reliable enough. However, in cases where a woman is at a high risk, the CA-125 marker may be used to alert a Dr. for further testing.
A woman's worst nightmare is the diagnosis of cancer. Yet, early detection is the best way to prevent any cancer from spreading and growing. Take care of yourself and take the time to get your yearly exam. It could save your life.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jean_Wensink
ovarian cancer : Ovarian Cancer Stages
By the stage of a cancer we try to express how far the disease has spread. It is crucial, as treatment is mostly decided depending on the stage of a cancer. For ovarian cancer, doctors use a simple I-IV staging system called the FIGO (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) system.
Stage I means the cancer is confined to the ovaries. In stage IA, the cancer is confined to one ovary, while in IB the cancer is present in both ovaries. In stage IC, in addition to the cancer being present in either one or both of the ovaries, cancer cells may be present on the outer surfaces of one or both ovaries, or in fluid taken from inside the abdomen; or, the outer wall of a cystic ovarian tumor may have burst.
By stage II we mean the cancer has grown outside the ovary or ovaries, but it is inside the pelvis. In stage IIA, the cancer has reached the fallopian tubes or the womb, while IIB means the cancer has grown into other tissues in the pelvis, such as the bladder or rectum. Stage IIC indicates that in addition to stages IIA and IIB, either some cancer is present on the surface of at least one ovary or cancer cells are found in fluid taken from inside the abdomen during surgery, or the ovary ruptures before or during surgery.
Stage III means the cancer has spread outside the pelvis into the abdominal cavity. It is also stage III if cancer is found in the lymph nodes in the upper abdomen, groin or behind the womb. In stage IIIA, cancer can be seen under the microscope in tissue taken from the lining of the abdomen, while in IIIB, small tumor growths are found on the lining of the abdomen. In IIIC, tumor growths larger than 2cm are found on the lining of the abdomen; the lymph nodes in the upper abdomen, groin or behind the womb contain cancer.
Stage IV, the most advanced of all, means the cancer has spread into other body organs such as the liver or lungs.
Ovarian Cancer provides detailed information on Ovarian Cancer, Ovarian Cancer Symptoms, Ovarian Cancer Treatments, Ovarian Cancer Stages and more. Ovarian Cancer is affiliated with Mesotherapy Before And After. ===>
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eddie_Tobey
Stage I means the cancer is confined to the ovaries. In stage IA, the cancer is confined to one ovary, while in IB the cancer is present in both ovaries. In stage IC, in addition to the cancer being present in either one or both of the ovaries, cancer cells may be present on the outer surfaces of one or both ovaries, or in fluid taken from inside the abdomen; or, the outer wall of a cystic ovarian tumor may have burst.
By stage II we mean the cancer has grown outside the ovary or ovaries, but it is inside the pelvis. In stage IIA, the cancer has reached the fallopian tubes or the womb, while IIB means the cancer has grown into other tissues in the pelvis, such as the bladder or rectum. Stage IIC indicates that in addition to stages IIA and IIB, either some cancer is present on the surface of at least one ovary or cancer cells are found in fluid taken from inside the abdomen during surgery, or the ovary ruptures before or during surgery.
Stage III means the cancer has spread outside the pelvis into the abdominal cavity. It is also stage III if cancer is found in the lymph nodes in the upper abdomen, groin or behind the womb. In stage IIIA, cancer can be seen under the microscope in tissue taken from the lining of the abdomen, while in IIIB, small tumor growths are found on the lining of the abdomen. In IIIC, tumor growths larger than 2cm are found on the lining of the abdomen; the lymph nodes in the upper abdomen, groin or behind the womb contain cancer.
Stage IV, the most advanced of all, means the cancer has spread into other body organs such as the liver or lungs.
Ovarian Cancer provides detailed information on Ovarian Cancer, Ovarian Cancer Symptoms, Ovarian Cancer Treatments, Ovarian Cancer Stages and more. Ovarian Cancer is affiliated with Mesotherapy Before And After. ===>
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eddie_Tobey
Friday, July 21, 2006
ovarian cancer : Prophylactic oophorectomy
Prophylactic oophorectomy significantly reduces your odds of developing cancer if you're at high risk — up to 50 percent for breast cancer and 95 percent for ovarian cancer. Weigh the pros and cons of this surgical prevention to determine whether it's an option for you.
Your doctor has determined that you carry a mutation in breast cancer gene BRCA1 or BRCA2. A mutation to either of these genes significantly increases your risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Your heart freezes at the thought of preventive mastectomy — the surgical removal of your breasts to prevent breast cancer. Do other preventive care options exist?
Yes, in fact, they do. One is called preventive (prophylactic) oophorectomy — the surgical removal of your ovaries. Although the procedure is usually performed to reduce your risk of ovarian cancer, if performed before you reach menopause it also reduces your risk of breast cancer.
But the surgery isn't for everyone. Before considering such a severe approach to breast and ovarian cancer prevention, talk with a genetic counselor to assess your risk. From there, weigh the pros and cons of the surgery and understand the implications that the surgery will have for you.
do. One is called preventive (prophylactic) oophorectomy — the surgical removal of your ovaries. Although the procedure is usually performed to reduce your risk of ovarian cancer, if performed before you reach menopause it also reduces your risk of breast cancer.
But the surgery isn't for everyone. Before considering such a severe approach to breast and ovarian cancer prevention, talk with a genetic counselor to assess your risk. From there, weigh the pros and cons of the surgery and understand the implications that the surgery will have for you.
What is preventive oophorectomy, and what does it have to do with breast cancer?
Oophorectomy refers to the surgical removal of your ovaries. Removing your ovaries greatly reduces the amount of circulating estrogen in your body. This can halt or slow breast cancers that depend on estrogen to grow.
How much of an impact can this have on your risk of breast and ovarian cancer? A significant one. Prophylactic oophorectomy reduces your risk of breast cancer by about 50 percent if you're premenopausal, and it reduces your risk of ovarian cancer by up to 95 percent — no matter what your menopausal status.
Oophorectomy vs. mastectomy
You might think that preventive mastectomy would be the best way to lower your risk of breast cancer. And the procedure does reduce your risk of breast cancer to a much greater extent than does prophylactic oophorectomy. However, you might choose prophylactic oophorectomy over mastectomy because oophorectomy protects against both breast and ovarian cancer, rather than just breast cancer. Having a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation puts you at risk of both diseases.
You might also opt for prophylactic oophorectomy because ovarian cancer is much more difficult than is breast cancer to detect and treat at an early stage. Preventive mastectomy by itself offers no protection against ovarian cancer.
Oophorectomy also may seem appealing if you're concerned about how you'll look if you have your breasts removed. The downside, though, is that you'll experience premature menopause.
You attain the greatest risk reduction for ovarian and breast cancer by having both procedures.
Who is prophylactic oophorectomy recommended for?
Prophylactic oophorectomy is usually recommended if you're at increased risk of breast cancer and ovarian cancer due to an inherited mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes — two genes linked to breast cancer, ovarian cancer and other cancers. High-risk women age 35 and older who have completed their families are the best candidates for this surgery.
If you have a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene alteration, your risk of ovarian cancer is much higher than it is for the general population — and your risk of breast cancer is even higher. But because ovarian cancer is much more difficult to detect at an early stage than is breast cancer, it's more likely to be deadly.
Because BRCA1 carriers are at risk of developing ovarian cancer at an earlier age than are BRCA2 carriers, they usually have the procedure at an earlier age — between ages 35 and 40. Carriers of a BRCA2 alteration can usually delay the procedure until age 45. In either case, you may be able to postpone having prophylactic oophorectomy until you've finished having children.
Prophylactic oophorectomy may also be recommended if you have a strong family history of breast cancer and ovarian cancer but no known genetic alteration. It might also be recommended if you have a strong likelihood of carrying the gene mutation based on your family history but choose not to proceed with genetic testing.
Assessing your cancer risk
Whether or not prophylactic oophorectomy is your best choice hinges upon your risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer. Your level of risk depends on your personal medical history, your family history and your genes.
You might be considered at high risk of breast and ovarian cancer and a candidate for prophylactic oophorectomy if you have a known mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. You might also be a candidate if you have certain combinations of the following risk factors:
A personal history of breast cancer diagnosed before menopause
A known mutation of the breast cancer genes — BRCA1 or BRCA2 — in your family
A first-degree relative, such as your mother, sister or daughter, with onset of breast cancer before age 50
A family member diagnosed with ovarian cancer before age 50
A family history of ovarian cancer in two or more relatives
A male family member with breast cancer
Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry
If one or more of these factors apply to you, consider making an appointment with a genetic counselor. A genetic counselor can chart your family history, provide an assessment of your cancer risk based on your family history and discuss with you the merits of genetic testing in your particular situation. The genetic counselor will help you understand your individual risk to aid in your decisions about prophylactic surgery. You may also want to meet with a breast health specialist and gynecologic surgeon to discuss other options.
by U.S. National Library of Medicine,
Your doctor has determined that you carry a mutation in breast cancer gene BRCA1 or BRCA2. A mutation to either of these genes significantly increases your risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Your heart freezes at the thought of preventive mastectomy — the surgical removal of your breasts to prevent breast cancer. Do other preventive care options exist?
Yes, in fact, they do. One is called preventive (prophylactic) oophorectomy — the surgical removal of your ovaries. Although the procedure is usually performed to reduce your risk of ovarian cancer, if performed before you reach menopause it also reduces your risk of breast cancer.
But the surgery isn't for everyone. Before considering such a severe approach to breast and ovarian cancer prevention, talk with a genetic counselor to assess your risk. From there, weigh the pros and cons of the surgery and understand the implications that the surgery will have for you.
do. One is called preventive (prophylactic) oophorectomy — the surgical removal of your ovaries. Although the procedure is usually performed to reduce your risk of ovarian cancer, if performed before you reach menopause it also reduces your risk of breast cancer.
But the surgery isn't for everyone. Before considering such a severe approach to breast and ovarian cancer prevention, talk with a genetic counselor to assess your risk. From there, weigh the pros and cons of the surgery and understand the implications that the surgery will have for you.
What is preventive oophorectomy, and what does it have to do with breast cancer?
Oophorectomy refers to the surgical removal of your ovaries. Removing your ovaries greatly reduces the amount of circulating estrogen in your body. This can halt or slow breast cancers that depend on estrogen to grow.
How much of an impact can this have on your risk of breast and ovarian cancer? A significant one. Prophylactic oophorectomy reduces your risk of breast cancer by about 50 percent if you're premenopausal, and it reduces your risk of ovarian cancer by up to 95 percent — no matter what your menopausal status.
Oophorectomy vs. mastectomy
You might think that preventive mastectomy would be the best way to lower your risk of breast cancer. And the procedure does reduce your risk of breast cancer to a much greater extent than does prophylactic oophorectomy. However, you might choose prophylactic oophorectomy over mastectomy because oophorectomy protects against both breast and ovarian cancer, rather than just breast cancer. Having a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation puts you at risk of both diseases.
You might also opt for prophylactic oophorectomy because ovarian cancer is much more difficult than is breast cancer to detect and treat at an early stage. Preventive mastectomy by itself offers no protection against ovarian cancer.
Oophorectomy also may seem appealing if you're concerned about how you'll look if you have your breasts removed. The downside, though, is that you'll experience premature menopause.
You attain the greatest risk reduction for ovarian and breast cancer by having both procedures.
Who is prophylactic oophorectomy recommended for?
Prophylactic oophorectomy is usually recommended if you're at increased risk of breast cancer and ovarian cancer due to an inherited mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes — two genes linked to breast cancer, ovarian cancer and other cancers. High-risk women age 35 and older who have completed their families are the best candidates for this surgery.
If you have a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene alteration, your risk of ovarian cancer is much higher than it is for the general population — and your risk of breast cancer is even higher. But because ovarian cancer is much more difficult to detect at an early stage than is breast cancer, it's more likely to be deadly.
Because BRCA1 carriers are at risk of developing ovarian cancer at an earlier age than are BRCA2 carriers, they usually have the procedure at an earlier age — between ages 35 and 40. Carriers of a BRCA2 alteration can usually delay the procedure until age 45. In either case, you may be able to postpone having prophylactic oophorectomy until you've finished having children.
Prophylactic oophorectomy may also be recommended if you have a strong family history of breast cancer and ovarian cancer but no known genetic alteration. It might also be recommended if you have a strong likelihood of carrying the gene mutation based on your family history but choose not to proceed with genetic testing.
Assessing your cancer risk
Whether or not prophylactic oophorectomy is your best choice hinges upon your risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer. Your level of risk depends on your personal medical history, your family history and your genes.
You might be considered at high risk of breast and ovarian cancer and a candidate for prophylactic oophorectomy if you have a known mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. You might also be a candidate if you have certain combinations of the following risk factors:
A personal history of breast cancer diagnosed before menopause
A known mutation of the breast cancer genes — BRCA1 or BRCA2 — in your family
A first-degree relative, such as your mother, sister or daughter, with onset of breast cancer before age 50
A family member diagnosed with ovarian cancer before age 50
A family history of ovarian cancer in two or more relatives
A male family member with breast cancer
Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry
If one or more of these factors apply to you, consider making an appointment with a genetic counselor. A genetic counselor can chart your family history, provide an assessment of your cancer risk based on your family history and discuss with you the merits of genetic testing in your particular situation. The genetic counselor will help you understand your individual risk to aid in your decisions about prophylactic surgery. You may also want to meet with a breast health specialist and gynecologic surgeon to discuss other options.
by U.S. National Library of Medicine,
ovarian cancer : Active Coping Helps Gynecologic Cancer
Women who take an active approach to cope with a diagnosis of gynecologic cancer have a higher quality of life than those who cope by distancing themselves from dealing with the disease, according to a report in the journal Cancer (Vol. 94, No. 1: 131-140).
A year after diagnosis, there wasn't much difference in quality of life between the early-stage patients and those with regionally advanced cancer (without metastasis).
The early-stage patients said they felt less anxiety, depression, and confusion, and had fewer mood swings than immediately after diagnosis, resulting in a QOL equal to that of similar women without cancer.
The regionally advanced stage patients reported similar QOL, but with some additional distress.
But there was a big difference in QOL between those who coped actively and those who disengaged.
Women Improve With New Focus and Acceptance
Patients who coped in two active ways — positive re-framing and acceptance — reported greater physical, emotional, and functional well-being than at diagnosis.
Positive re-framing is described by the researchers as looking at the cancer diagnosis in a new way, such as using it as a reason to find a new meaning and focus in life.
Acceptance doesn't involve resignation, said the researchers, but is the ability to face unfortunate realities that cannot be changed.
Those who actively sought and got comfort and understanding from someone reported better relationships with their doctors and others.
But patients who disengaged — avoiding dealing with problems brought on by the disease or giving up any attempt to cope — had more distress, poorer emotional well being, worse overall quality of life, and even poorer functional well-being.
Women with Endometrial, Cervical, or Ovarian Cancer Participated
Lutgendorf used questionnaires to measure the quality of life (QOL) of 98 women with early-stage or regionally advanced gynecologic (endometrial, cervical, or ovarian) cancers at the University of Iowa health facilities.
The researchers measured QOL immediately after diagnosis and again a year later, rating the women's physical, functional, emotional, and social well-being, and how satisfied they were with their doctors.
Immediately after diagnosis, the regionally advanced cancer patients and early-stage patients generally reported about the same quality of life, with more distress than healthy women of similar ages and backgrounds.
Those with regionally advanced cancer didn't feel physically as well or as fully functional, but they seemed to adjust to that, said the researchers.
Treatment Progress Must Also be Considered
An American Cancer Society (ACS) expert on gynecologic cancers said the study confirms earlier ones like it, but must be interpreted with caution because the authors left out some important information.
"Those who disengaged had a poorer quality of life, but the researchers didn't say if those were the patients whose chemotherapy wasn't helping, which could have been the reason for emotional difficulties," noted Carolyn Runowicz, MD, professor at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York, and a practicing gynecologic cancer surgeon.
Runowicz, also a member of the ACS advisory board on gynecologic cancers, said it's not reasonable to criticize patients for coping skills if the reason they're not doing well emotionally is that their cancer is not responding to therapy.
Aside from coping, patients get better during the first year after diagnosis because their treatments — surgery and sometimes chemotherapy — reduce their volume of disease, noted Runowicz.
But Runowicz said the study, like others before it, showed that cancer patients generally get better following diagnosis — that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
"And that's a good thing to know, for a patient who has just been diagnosed," she concluded.
Copyright 2006 © American Cancer Society, Inc.
A year after diagnosis, there wasn't much difference in quality of life between the early-stage patients and those with regionally advanced cancer (without metastasis).
The early-stage patients said they felt less anxiety, depression, and confusion, and had fewer mood swings than immediately after diagnosis, resulting in a QOL equal to that of similar women without cancer.
The regionally advanced stage patients reported similar QOL, but with some additional distress.
But there was a big difference in QOL between those who coped actively and those who disengaged.
Women Improve With New Focus and Acceptance
Patients who coped in two active ways — positive re-framing and acceptance — reported greater physical, emotional, and functional well-being than at diagnosis.
Positive re-framing is described by the researchers as looking at the cancer diagnosis in a new way, such as using it as a reason to find a new meaning and focus in life.
Acceptance doesn't involve resignation, said the researchers, but is the ability to face unfortunate realities that cannot be changed.
Those who actively sought and got comfort and understanding from someone reported better relationships with their doctors and others.
But patients who disengaged — avoiding dealing with problems brought on by the disease or giving up any attempt to cope — had more distress, poorer emotional well being, worse overall quality of life, and even poorer functional well-being.
Women with Endometrial, Cervical, or Ovarian Cancer Participated
Lutgendorf used questionnaires to measure the quality of life (QOL) of 98 women with early-stage or regionally advanced gynecologic (endometrial, cervical, or ovarian) cancers at the University of Iowa health facilities.
The researchers measured QOL immediately after diagnosis and again a year later, rating the women's physical, functional, emotional, and social well-being, and how satisfied they were with their doctors.
Immediately after diagnosis, the regionally advanced cancer patients and early-stage patients generally reported about the same quality of life, with more distress than healthy women of similar ages and backgrounds.
Those with regionally advanced cancer didn't feel physically as well or as fully functional, but they seemed to adjust to that, said the researchers.
Treatment Progress Must Also be Considered
An American Cancer Society (ACS) expert on gynecologic cancers said the study confirms earlier ones like it, but must be interpreted with caution because the authors left out some important information.
"Those who disengaged had a poorer quality of life, but the researchers didn't say if those were the patients whose chemotherapy wasn't helping, which could have been the reason for emotional difficulties," noted Carolyn Runowicz, MD, professor at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York, and a practicing gynecologic cancer surgeon.
Runowicz, also a member of the ACS advisory board on gynecologic cancers, said it's not reasonable to criticize patients for coping skills if the reason they're not doing well emotionally is that their cancer is not responding to therapy.
Aside from coping, patients get better during the first year after diagnosis because their treatments — surgery and sometimes chemotherapy — reduce their volume of disease, noted Runowicz.
But Runowicz said the study, like others before it, showed that cancer patients generally get better following diagnosis — that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
"And that's a good thing to know, for a patient who has just been diagnosed," she concluded.
Copyright 2006 © American Cancer Society, Inc.
Friday, July 14, 2006
ovarian cancer : Physical activity does not ward off ovarian cancer
NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - The benefits of physical activity do not extend to reducing the risk of developing ovarian cancer, according to a new study reported in the International Journal of Cancer.
"However, despite not protecting for ovarian cancer, physical activity has so many other positive health effects that women should be encouraged to exercise daily, if possible," study chief Dr. Elisabete Weiderpass from the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm emphasized in comments to Reuters Health.
She and her colleagues assessed associations between physical activity during different periods of life and ovarian cancer incidence in roughly 96,000 women from Norway and Sweden who were followed for more than a decade.
"We asked the women how much they exercised at ages 14, 30 and between ages 30 and 50 year," Weiderpass said.
A total of 264 women developed ovarian cancer during the time they were followed.
According to Weiderpass, "the risk (probability) of developing ovarian cancer was the same for women who were highly active or sedentary, in any period of life." The results were similar for different ovarian tumor types and for different subsets of women grouped according to known risk factors for ovarian cancer.
"We concluded that physical activity does not protect women for ovarian cancer," Weiderpass said. She acknowledged that this was a bit of a surprise. "We thought that physical activity would protect women from ovarian cancer," she said.
SOURCE: International Journal of Cancer, June 15, 2006.
By Megan Rauscher
"However, despite not protecting for ovarian cancer, physical activity has so many other positive health effects that women should be encouraged to exercise daily, if possible," study chief Dr. Elisabete Weiderpass from the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm emphasized in comments to Reuters Health.
She and her colleagues assessed associations between physical activity during different periods of life and ovarian cancer incidence in roughly 96,000 women from Norway and Sweden who were followed for more than a decade.
"We asked the women how much they exercised at ages 14, 30 and between ages 30 and 50 year," Weiderpass said.
A total of 264 women developed ovarian cancer during the time they were followed.
According to Weiderpass, "the risk (probability) of developing ovarian cancer was the same for women who were highly active or sedentary, in any period of life." The results were similar for different ovarian tumor types and for different subsets of women grouped according to known risk factors for ovarian cancer.
"We concluded that physical activity does not protect women for ovarian cancer," Weiderpass said. She acknowledged that this was a bit of a surprise. "We thought that physical activity would protect women from ovarian cancer," she said.
SOURCE: International Journal of Cancer, June 15, 2006.
By Megan Rauscher
ovarian cancer : Stem cells help ovarian tumors persist
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Primitive cells that resemble stem cells may help some ovarian cancer tumors linger and recur in the body, but it may be possible to subdue them, U.S. researchers reported on Tuesday.
The findings build on other studies that show leukemia, breast, brain and other tumors have so-called side population cells that resemble the healthy stem cells found elsewhere in the body.
"Cancer stem cells, like somatic stem cells, are thought to be capable of unlimited self-renewal and proliferation," Dr. Patricia Donahoe of Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School and colleagues wrote in their report, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
They found these stem cells, which act as a kind of master cell, first in batches of ovarian tumor cells taken from mice. They then identified similar cells in human cancer cells.
When injected into mice these side-population cells formed tumors -- but their growth was slowed by a naturally produced compound called Mullerian Inhibiting Substance.
If the cells could be identified in human ovarian cancer patients, they might be used to assess a woman's chances of recovery, and, eventually, to find ways to better treat her cancer, Donahoe's team said.
Ovarian cancer is deadly, and is diagnosed in 22,000 women in North America per year, killing 16,000. More than 70 percent of women die of ovarian cancer within five years.
Usually treatment appears to be successful but the tumors come back. "The majority of patients who respond to primary chemotherapy ultimately develop recurrent, usually drug-resistant, disease that is conceivably due to the ability of ovarian cancer stem cells to escape these drugs," the researchers wrote.
Donahoe's team said their study suggests there may be a way to find these latent tumor cells and test new drugs to kill them -- maybe even Mullerian Inhibiting Substance.
Copyright © 2006 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved.
The findings build on other studies that show leukemia, breast, brain and other tumors have so-called side population cells that resemble the healthy stem cells found elsewhere in the body.
"Cancer stem cells, like somatic stem cells, are thought to be capable of unlimited self-renewal and proliferation," Dr. Patricia Donahoe of Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School and colleagues wrote in their report, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
They found these stem cells, which act as a kind of master cell, first in batches of ovarian tumor cells taken from mice. They then identified similar cells in human cancer cells.
When injected into mice these side-population cells formed tumors -- but their growth was slowed by a naturally produced compound called Mullerian Inhibiting Substance.
If the cells could be identified in human ovarian cancer patients, they might be used to assess a woman's chances of recovery, and, eventually, to find ways to better treat her cancer, Donahoe's team said.
Ovarian cancer is deadly, and is diagnosed in 22,000 women in North America per year, killing 16,000. More than 70 percent of women die of ovarian cancer within five years.
Usually treatment appears to be successful but the tumors come back. "The majority of patients who respond to primary chemotherapy ultimately develop recurrent, usually drug-resistant, disease that is conceivably due to the ability of ovarian cancer stem cells to escape these drugs," the researchers wrote.
Donahoe's team said their study suggests there may be a way to find these latent tumor cells and test new drugs to kill them -- maybe even Mullerian Inhibiting Substance.
Copyright © 2006 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
ovarian cancer : Treatment for Advanced Ovarian Cancer
The National Cancer Institute (NCI), part of the National Institutes of Health, today issued an announcement encouraging treatment with anticancer drugs via two methods, after surgery, for women with advanced ovarian cancer. The combined methods, which deliver drugs into a vein and directly into the abdomen, extend overall survival for women with advanced ovarian cancer by about a year.
The clinical announcement to surgeons and other medical professionals who treat women with ovarian cancer was made with the support of six professional societies and advocacy groups. The announcement coincides with publication in the New England Journal of Medicine* of the results of a large clinical trial by Deborah Armstrong, M.D., medical oncologist and an associate professor at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center in Baltimore, Md., and her colleagues in an NCI-supported research network known as the Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG). This is the eighth trial evaluating the use of chemotherapy delivered into the abdomen for ovarian cancer. Together, these trials show a significant improvement in survival for women with advanced ovarian cancer.
The two treatment methods are called intravenous, or IV, for chemotherapy delivered into a vein and intraperitoneal, or IP, for chemotherapy delivered into the abdominal, or peritoneal, cavity. The Armstrong trial involved 429 women with stage III ovarian cancer who were given chemotherapy following the successful surgical removal of tumors. It compared two treatment regimens: 1) IV paclitaxel followed by IV cisplatin, to 2) IV paclitaxel followed by IP cisplatin and the subsequent administration of IP paclitaxel.
“Americans look to NCI — and to all of the institutes that constitute the National Institutes of Health — for unbiased research studies and sound counsel. This clinical announcement is a demonstration of that commitment,” said NIH Director Elias A. Zerhouni, M.D.
“The National Cancer Institute wants to make certain that the results of clinical research are rapidly disseminated to both health care providers and patients, in order to ensure that life-enhancing cancer treatments are widely available,” said NCI Director Andrew C. von Eschenbach, M.D.
"IP therapy is not a new treatment approach, but it has not been widely accepted as the gold standard for women with ovarian cancer," said Armstrong. "There has been a prejudice against IP therapy in ovarian cancer because it's an old idea, it requires skill and experience for the surgery and for the chemotherapy, and it's more complicated than IV chemotherapy. But now we have firm data showing that we should use a combination of IP and IV chemotherapy in most women with advanced ovarian cancer who have had successful surgery to remove the bulk of their tumor."
Standard treatment for women with stage III ovarian cancer has been surgical removal of the tumor (debulking), followed by six to eight courses of IV chemotherapy given every three weeks with a platinum drug, such as cisplatin or carboplatin, and a taxane drug, such as paclitaxel. The new NCI clinical announcement recommends that women with advanced ovarian cancer who undergo effective surgical debulking receive a combination of IV and IP chemotherapy. IP chemotherapy allows higher doses and more frequent administration of drugs, and it appears to be more effective in killing cancer cells in the peritoneal cavity, where ovarian cancer is likely to spread or recur first.
“In our trial, women who received part of their chemotherapy via an IP route had a median survival time 16 months longer than women who received only IV chemotherapy,” said Armstrong. The 205 women treated via the IP route fared better, even though most of them received fewer than the six planned treatments. Complications associated with the abdominal catheter used to deliver the IP chemotherapy were the main reason only 86 of the women completed all six IP treatments. Women who received IP chemotherapy had more side effects than those treated with IV chemotherapy alone, but most side effects were temporary and easily managed. One year after treatment, women in both study groups had the same reported quality of life.
“Randomized, multicenter clinical trials, including this most recent study, clearly show the value of IP chemotherapy — an extended life for women with advanced ovarian cancer,” said Philip DiSaia, M.D., chairman of the GOG.
"For most women who have had successful surgical removal of tumors to less than one centimeter in size, we now know that the longest survival may be achieved by giving their chemotherapy directly into the abdomen," said Beth Karlan, M.D., president of the Society of Gynecologic Oncologists and director of Gynecologic Oncology and the Gilda Radner Ovarian Cancer Program at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, Calif.
In response to this announcement, the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance's outgoing president, Ginger Ackerman, and its executive director, Sherry Salway Black, said the Alliance would widely disseminate this information on IP therapy to their patient community. “We welcome the results of the recent trial that demonstrates increased survivorship,” said Salway Black.
"It is important for women to have the facts about when it is appropriate to consider IP chemotherapy," said Karl Podratz, M.D., Ph.D., chairman of the board of the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation (GCF) and professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. "GCF looks forward to working with NCI and the ovarian cancer community to educate women about the results of this very important clinical trial, and what it means for women with advanced ovarian cancer.”
Karen Stanley, R.N., M.S.N, president of the Oncology Nursing Society, and Susan Vogt Temple, R.N., president of the Society of Gynecologic Nurse Oncologists, noted that their societies have plans in place to teach oncology nurses and women with ovarian cancer how IP chemotherapy can be given safely and reliably.
More studies are needed to determine the best IP drug regimen and the optimal number of IP treatments. Future trials also will address how to reduce toxicity associated with IP administration.
In addition to continued research to improve ovarian cancer treatment, NCI is funding studies to identify disease markers and develop improved screening techniques, enabling earlier detection and treatment of the disease. An estimated 22,220 women in the United States were diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2005. It causes more deaths in the United States than any other cancer of the female reproductive system, with an estimated 16,210 women dying from the disease in 2005. The most recent statistics show that only 45 percent of women survive five years after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer; the rate increases to 94 percent when the disease is diagnosed before it has spread. However, women with ovarian cancer frequently have no symptoms or only mild symptoms until the disease is advanced. As a result, only 19 percent of all cases are detected at that early, localized stage.
copyright U.S. National Library of Medicine,
The clinical announcement to surgeons and other medical professionals who treat women with ovarian cancer was made with the support of six professional societies and advocacy groups. The announcement coincides with publication in the New England Journal of Medicine* of the results of a large clinical trial by Deborah Armstrong, M.D., medical oncologist and an associate professor at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center in Baltimore, Md., and her colleagues in an NCI-supported research network known as the Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG). This is the eighth trial evaluating the use of chemotherapy delivered into the abdomen for ovarian cancer. Together, these trials show a significant improvement in survival for women with advanced ovarian cancer.
The two treatment methods are called intravenous, or IV, for chemotherapy delivered into a vein and intraperitoneal, or IP, for chemotherapy delivered into the abdominal, or peritoneal, cavity. The Armstrong trial involved 429 women with stage III ovarian cancer who were given chemotherapy following the successful surgical removal of tumors. It compared two treatment regimens: 1) IV paclitaxel followed by IV cisplatin, to 2) IV paclitaxel followed by IP cisplatin and the subsequent administration of IP paclitaxel.
“Americans look to NCI — and to all of the institutes that constitute the National Institutes of Health — for unbiased research studies and sound counsel. This clinical announcement is a demonstration of that commitment,” said NIH Director Elias A. Zerhouni, M.D.
“The National Cancer Institute wants to make certain that the results of clinical research are rapidly disseminated to both health care providers and patients, in order to ensure that life-enhancing cancer treatments are widely available,” said NCI Director Andrew C. von Eschenbach, M.D.
"IP therapy is not a new treatment approach, but it has not been widely accepted as the gold standard for women with ovarian cancer," said Armstrong. "There has been a prejudice against IP therapy in ovarian cancer because it's an old idea, it requires skill and experience for the surgery and for the chemotherapy, and it's more complicated than IV chemotherapy. But now we have firm data showing that we should use a combination of IP and IV chemotherapy in most women with advanced ovarian cancer who have had successful surgery to remove the bulk of their tumor."
Standard treatment for women with stage III ovarian cancer has been surgical removal of the tumor (debulking), followed by six to eight courses of IV chemotherapy given every three weeks with a platinum drug, such as cisplatin or carboplatin, and a taxane drug, such as paclitaxel. The new NCI clinical announcement recommends that women with advanced ovarian cancer who undergo effective surgical debulking receive a combination of IV and IP chemotherapy. IP chemotherapy allows higher doses and more frequent administration of drugs, and it appears to be more effective in killing cancer cells in the peritoneal cavity, where ovarian cancer is likely to spread or recur first.
“In our trial, women who received part of their chemotherapy via an IP route had a median survival time 16 months longer than women who received only IV chemotherapy,” said Armstrong. The 205 women treated via the IP route fared better, even though most of them received fewer than the six planned treatments. Complications associated with the abdominal catheter used to deliver the IP chemotherapy were the main reason only 86 of the women completed all six IP treatments. Women who received IP chemotherapy had more side effects than those treated with IV chemotherapy alone, but most side effects were temporary and easily managed. One year after treatment, women in both study groups had the same reported quality of life.
“Randomized, multicenter clinical trials, including this most recent study, clearly show the value of IP chemotherapy — an extended life for women with advanced ovarian cancer,” said Philip DiSaia, M.D., chairman of the GOG.
"For most women who have had successful surgical removal of tumors to less than one centimeter in size, we now know that the longest survival may be achieved by giving their chemotherapy directly into the abdomen," said Beth Karlan, M.D., president of the Society of Gynecologic Oncologists and director of Gynecologic Oncology and the Gilda Radner Ovarian Cancer Program at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, Calif.
In response to this announcement, the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance's outgoing president, Ginger Ackerman, and its executive director, Sherry Salway Black, said the Alliance would widely disseminate this information on IP therapy to their patient community. “We welcome the results of the recent trial that demonstrates increased survivorship,” said Salway Black.
"It is important for women to have the facts about when it is appropriate to consider IP chemotherapy," said Karl Podratz, M.D., Ph.D., chairman of the board of the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation (GCF) and professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. "GCF looks forward to working with NCI and the ovarian cancer community to educate women about the results of this very important clinical trial, and what it means for women with advanced ovarian cancer.”
Karen Stanley, R.N., M.S.N, president of the Oncology Nursing Society, and Susan Vogt Temple, R.N., president of the Society of Gynecologic Nurse Oncologists, noted that their societies have plans in place to teach oncology nurses and women with ovarian cancer how IP chemotherapy can be given safely and reliably.
More studies are needed to determine the best IP drug regimen and the optimal number of IP treatments. Future trials also will address how to reduce toxicity associated with IP administration.
In addition to continued research to improve ovarian cancer treatment, NCI is funding studies to identify disease markers and develop improved screening techniques, enabling earlier detection and treatment of the disease. An estimated 22,220 women in the United States were diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2005. It causes more deaths in the United States than any other cancer of the female reproductive system, with an estimated 16,210 women dying from the disease in 2005. The most recent statistics show that only 45 percent of women survive five years after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer; the rate increases to 94 percent when the disease is diagnosed before it has spread. However, women with ovarian cancer frequently have no symptoms or only mild symptoms until the disease is advanced. As a result, only 19 percent of all cases are detected at that early, localized stage.
copyright U.S. National Library of Medicine,
ovarian cancer : Ovarian cancer tests
Currently, there is no specific screening test for ovarian cancer. However, research is ongoing to develop a reliable method for early detection among asymptomatic women (see news stories, in Related Pages below). In the meantime, regular physicals, pelvic exams, and an awareness of family history and symptoms are important.
Testing of symptomatic women includes the following, which have been shown to be positive in ovarian cancer (although not all of these tests would be used in an individual patient as they detect different types of ovarian tumors):
Epithelial tumors
CA-125 (Cancer antigen 125)
BRCA-1 and BRCA-2
Carcinoembrionic antigen (CEA)
Galactosyltranferase
Tissue polypeptide antigen (TPA)
Germ cell tumors
AFP (Alpha feto protein)
hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin)
Stromal tumors
Inhibin
Other non-laboratory tests that are used to evaluate abnormalities include:
Ultrasound (pelvic and/or transvaginal): uses sound waves to create a picture of the uterus and ovaries. It can help determine whether an ovarian growth is likely to be a cancer or a fluid-filled cyst.
CT scan (computerized tomography)
X-ray of the gastrointestinal tract
copyright U.S. National Library of Medicine,
Testing of symptomatic women includes the following, which have been shown to be positive in ovarian cancer (although not all of these tests would be used in an individual patient as they detect different types of ovarian tumors):
Epithelial tumors
CA-125 (Cancer antigen 125)
BRCA-1 and BRCA-2
Carcinoembrionic antigen (CEA)
Galactosyltranferase
Tissue polypeptide antigen (TPA)
Germ cell tumors
AFP (Alpha feto protein)
hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin)
Stromal tumors
Inhibin
Other non-laboratory tests that are used to evaluate abnormalities include:
Ultrasound (pelvic and/or transvaginal): uses sound waves to create a picture of the uterus and ovaries. It can help determine whether an ovarian growth is likely to be a cancer or a fluid-filled cyst.
CT scan (computerized tomography)
X-ray of the gastrointestinal tract
copyright U.S. National Library of Medicine,
Sunday, July 09, 2006
ovarian cancer : Painkiller 'may cut cancer risk'
Using paracetamol regularly could reduce the risk of ovarian cancer by almost a third, a study says.
A team from Athens University found the risk fell by 30% after analysing eight previous studies into the painkiller covering over 746,000 women.
But researchers warned long-term use could lead to an increase risk of liver and kidney failure, the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology reported.
Experts said more research was needed into the effect.
And the report stressed the researchers were not suggesting that women start taking paracetamol to guard against the disease.
Ovarian cancer is not one of the most common cancers, affecting about one in 60 women.
But the mortality rate is high - less than a third survive for five years following diagnosis - as the disease is often hard to spot and therefore not identified until it is in its late stage.
The team reviewed studies covering paracetamol and ovarian cancer from 1966 to 2004 in the UK, US and Denmark. Some 4,405 of the women had ovarian cancer.
Regular use differed from study to study, but was most commonly referred to as at least 30 tablets a month.
'Strong correlation'
Lead researcher Dr Stefanos Bonovas said due to the high mortality rate, focussing on prevention was the "most rational approach for reducing deaths".
"Strategies that focus on prevention may therefore provide the most rational approach for reducing deaths from this form of cancer.
"Because paracetamol is so widely used, a link with a decreased risk of ovarian cancer could have important public health implications."
But he added: "The risks of long-term paracetamol use - including liver and chronic kidney failure - may outweigh the potential benefits of preventing ovarian cancer in low-risk cases.
"But we do feel that our study highlights the need for further research into this highly important link between a simple over-the-counter medicine and a very aggressive form of cancer."
The study was unable to identify why the painkiller reduced the risk.
Dr Kat Arney, science information officer at Cancer Research UK, said the research was welcome, but also warned about the side effects.
She added: "The next step is to do laboratory research to understand more about how paracetamol achieves this protective effect and to test the benefits of the drug in a large-scale clinical trial."
by Dr Stefanos Bonovas
A team from Athens University found the risk fell by 30% after analysing eight previous studies into the painkiller covering over 746,000 women.
But researchers warned long-term use could lead to an increase risk of liver and kidney failure, the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology reported.
Experts said more research was needed into the effect.
And the report stressed the researchers were not suggesting that women start taking paracetamol to guard against the disease.
Ovarian cancer is not one of the most common cancers, affecting about one in 60 women.
But the mortality rate is high - less than a third survive for five years following diagnosis - as the disease is often hard to spot and therefore not identified until it is in its late stage.
The team reviewed studies covering paracetamol and ovarian cancer from 1966 to 2004 in the UK, US and Denmark. Some 4,405 of the women had ovarian cancer.
Regular use differed from study to study, but was most commonly referred to as at least 30 tablets a month.
'Strong correlation'
Lead researcher Dr Stefanos Bonovas said due to the high mortality rate, focussing on prevention was the "most rational approach for reducing deaths".
"Strategies that focus on prevention may therefore provide the most rational approach for reducing deaths from this form of cancer.
"Because paracetamol is so widely used, a link with a decreased risk of ovarian cancer could have important public health implications."
But he added: "The risks of long-term paracetamol use - including liver and chronic kidney failure - may outweigh the potential benefits of preventing ovarian cancer in low-risk cases.
"But we do feel that our study highlights the need for further research into this highly important link between a simple over-the-counter medicine and a very aggressive form of cancer."
The study was unable to identify why the painkiller reduced the risk.
Dr Kat Arney, science information officer at Cancer Research UK, said the research was welcome, but also warned about the side effects.
She added: "The next step is to do laboratory research to understand more about how paracetamol achieves this protective effect and to test the benefits of the drug in a large-scale clinical trial."
by Dr Stefanos Bonovas
ovarian cancer : Common pain reliever may lower ovarian cancer risk
LONDON (Agence de Presse Medicale) - Using paracetamol (known in the US as acetaminophen) regularly appears to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer by 30 percent, according to the results of a review of several studies, reported in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology.
Lead researcher Dr. Stefanos Bonovas, of the department of pharmacology at the University of Athens, and colleagues looked at all studies covering paracetamol and ovarian cancer from 1966 to 2004.
Bonovas said several observational studies had examined paracetamol as a potential chemopreventive agent. But it was the "non-conclusive nature of the epidemiological evidence" which prompted his group to conduct a review, or "meta-analysis" of the studies.
The researchers analyzed eight major studies involving more than 746,000 women between 1998 and 2004. The studies included 10 to 1,573 cases of ovarian cancer. Most of the studies were carried out in the U.S., while one was conducted in the UK and one in continental Europe.
Seven of the eight studies evaluated the effect of paracetamol on the incidence of ovarian cancer, while one evaluated the effect of paracetamol the mortality of ovarian cancer. Paracetamol exposure was classified as 'regular' or 'irregular.' In the biggest study, 'regular' was defined as more than 30 tablets in the month before the study began.
The analysis showed that 'regular use' was associated with a 30 percent reduction in the risk of developing ovarian cancer compared with non-use. By contrast, 'irregular use' was not associated with any reduction in the risk of developing ovarian cancer.
Bonovas said the findings of the meta-analysis support a protective association between paracetamol use and ovarian cancer and provide evidence for a dose effect. On the other hand, the long-term risks of liver and chronic renal failure might outweigh the drug's potential benefits in women at low risk of ovarian cancer.
"However, we believe that a randomized trial in women with a high risk of developing the disease might be appropriate. Further research is also needed into how this protective mechanism actually works," Bonovas added in a statement
By Nick Hudson
Lead researcher Dr. Stefanos Bonovas, of the department of pharmacology at the University of Athens, and colleagues looked at all studies covering paracetamol and ovarian cancer from 1966 to 2004.
Bonovas said several observational studies had examined paracetamol as a potential chemopreventive agent. But it was the "non-conclusive nature of the epidemiological evidence" which prompted his group to conduct a review, or "meta-analysis" of the studies.
The researchers analyzed eight major studies involving more than 746,000 women between 1998 and 2004. The studies included 10 to 1,573 cases of ovarian cancer. Most of the studies were carried out in the U.S., while one was conducted in the UK and one in continental Europe.
Seven of the eight studies evaluated the effect of paracetamol on the incidence of ovarian cancer, while one evaluated the effect of paracetamol the mortality of ovarian cancer. Paracetamol exposure was classified as 'regular' or 'irregular.' In the biggest study, 'regular' was defined as more than 30 tablets in the month before the study began.
The analysis showed that 'regular use' was associated with a 30 percent reduction in the risk of developing ovarian cancer compared with non-use. By contrast, 'irregular use' was not associated with any reduction in the risk of developing ovarian cancer.
Bonovas said the findings of the meta-analysis support a protective association between paracetamol use and ovarian cancer and provide evidence for a dose effect. On the other hand, the long-term risks of liver and chronic renal failure might outweigh the drug's potential benefits in women at low risk of ovarian cancer.
"However, we believe that a randomized trial in women with a high risk of developing the disease might be appropriate. Further research is also needed into how this protective mechanism actually works," Bonovas added in a statement
By Nick Hudson
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Ovarian Cancer: Who's at Risk?
The exact causes of ovarian cancer are not known. However, studies show that the following factors may increase the chance of developing this disease:
Family history. First-degree relatives (mother, daughter, sister) of a woman who has had ovarian cancer are at increased risk of developing this type of cancer themselves. The likelihood is especially high if two or more first-degree relatives have had the disease. The risk is somewhat less, but still above average, if other relatives (grandmother, aunt, cousin) have had ovarian cancer. A family history of breast or colon cancer is also associated with an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.
Age. The likelihood of developing ovarian cancer increases as a woman gets older. Most ovarian cancers occur in women over the age of 50, with the highest risk in women over 60.
Childbearing. Women who have never had children are more likely to develop ovarian cancer than women who have had children. In fact, the more children a woman has had, the less likely she is to develop ovarian cancer.
Personal history. Women who have had breast or colon cancer may have a greater chance of developing ovarian cancer than women who have not had breast or colon cancer.
Fertility drugs. Drugs that cause a woman to ovulate may slightly increase a woman's chance of developing ovarian cancer. Researchers are studying this possible association.
Talc. Some studies suggest that women who have used talc in the genital area for many years may be at increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Some evidence suggests that women who use HRT after menopause may have a slightly increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.
About 1 in every 57 women in the United States will develop ovarian cancer. Most cases occur in women over the age of 50, but this disease can also affect younger women.
As we learn more about what causes ovarian cancer, we may also learn how to reduce the chance of getting this disease. Some studies have shown that breast feeding and taking birth control pills (oral contraceptives) may decrease a woman's likelihood of developing ovarian cancer. These factors decrease the number of times a woman ovulates, and studies suggest that reducing the number of ovulations during a woman's lifetime may lower the risk of ovarian cancer.
Women who have had an operation that prevents pregnancy (tubal ligation) or have had their uterus and cervix removed (hysterectomy) also have a lower risk of developing ovarian cancer. In addition, some evidence suggests that reducing the amount of fat in the diet may lower the risk of developing ovarian cancer.
Women who are at high risk for ovarian cancer due to a family history of the disease may consider having their ovaries removed before cancer develops (prophylactic oophorectomy). This procedure usually, but not always, protects women from developing ovarian cancer. The risks associated with this surgery and its side effects should be carefully considered. A woman should discuss the possible benefits and risks with her doctor based on her unique situation.
Having one or more of the risk factors mentioned here does not mean that a woman is sure to develop ovarian cancer, but the chance may be higher than average. Women who are concerned about ovarian cancer may want to talk with a doctor who specializes in treating women with cancer: a gynecologist, a gynecologic oncologist, or a medical oncologist. The doctor may be able to suggest ways to reduce the likelihood of developing ovarian cancer and can plan an appropriate schedule for checkups.
A Service of the National Cancer Institute
Family history. First-degree relatives (mother, daughter, sister) of a woman who has had ovarian cancer are at increased risk of developing this type of cancer themselves. The likelihood is especially high if two or more first-degree relatives have had the disease. The risk is somewhat less, but still above average, if other relatives (grandmother, aunt, cousin) have had ovarian cancer. A family history of breast or colon cancer is also associated with an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.
Age. The likelihood of developing ovarian cancer increases as a woman gets older. Most ovarian cancers occur in women over the age of 50, with the highest risk in women over 60.
Childbearing. Women who have never had children are more likely to develop ovarian cancer than women who have had children. In fact, the more children a woman has had, the less likely she is to develop ovarian cancer.
Personal history. Women who have had breast or colon cancer may have a greater chance of developing ovarian cancer than women who have not had breast or colon cancer.
Fertility drugs. Drugs that cause a woman to ovulate may slightly increase a woman's chance of developing ovarian cancer. Researchers are studying this possible association.
Talc. Some studies suggest that women who have used talc in the genital area for many years may be at increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Some evidence suggests that women who use HRT after menopause may have a slightly increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.
About 1 in every 57 women in the United States will develop ovarian cancer. Most cases occur in women over the age of 50, but this disease can also affect younger women.
As we learn more about what causes ovarian cancer, we may also learn how to reduce the chance of getting this disease. Some studies have shown that breast feeding and taking birth control pills (oral contraceptives) may decrease a woman's likelihood of developing ovarian cancer. These factors decrease the number of times a woman ovulates, and studies suggest that reducing the number of ovulations during a woman's lifetime may lower the risk of ovarian cancer.
Women who have had an operation that prevents pregnancy (tubal ligation) or have had their uterus and cervix removed (hysterectomy) also have a lower risk of developing ovarian cancer. In addition, some evidence suggests that reducing the amount of fat in the diet may lower the risk of developing ovarian cancer.
Women who are at high risk for ovarian cancer due to a family history of the disease may consider having their ovaries removed before cancer develops (prophylactic oophorectomy). This procedure usually, but not always, protects women from developing ovarian cancer. The risks associated with this surgery and its side effects should be carefully considered. A woman should discuss the possible benefits and risks with her doctor based on her unique situation.
Having one or more of the risk factors mentioned here does not mean that a woman is sure to develop ovarian cancer, but the chance may be higher than average. Women who are concerned about ovarian cancer may want to talk with a doctor who specializes in treating women with cancer: a gynecologist, a gynecologic oncologist, or a medical oncologist. The doctor may be able to suggest ways to reduce the likelihood of developing ovarian cancer and can plan an appropriate schedule for checkups.
A Service of the National Cancer Institute
ovarian cancer : Understanding Ovarian Cancer
Cancer is a group of many related diseases that begin in cells, the body's basic unit of life. To understand cancer, it is helpful to know about normal cells and what happens when they become cancerous.
The body is made up of many types of cells. Normally, cells grow, divide, and produce more cells when the body needs them. This orderly process helps to keep the body healthy. Sometimes, however, cells keep dividing when new cells are not needed. These extra cells form a mass of tissue, called a growth or tumor. Tumors can be benign or malignant.
Benign tumors are not cancer. They often can be removed and, in most cases, they do not come back. Cells in benign tumors do not spread to other parts of the body. Most important, benign tumors are rarely a threat to life.
Ovarian cysts are a different type of growth. They are fluid-filled sacs that form on the surface of an ovary. They are not cancer. Cysts often go away without treatment. If a cyst does not go away, the doctor may suggest removing it, especially if it seems to be growing.
Malignant tumors are cancer. Cells in these tumors are abnormal and divide without control or order. They can invade and damage nearby tissues and organs. Cancer cells can also spread (metastasize) from their original site to other parts of the body.
A malignant tumor that begins in the ovaries is called ovarian cancer. There are several types of ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer that begins on the surface of the ovary (epithelial carcinoma) is the most common type. This is the type of cancer discussed in this booklet. Ovarian cancer that begins in the egg-producing cells (germ cell tumors) and cancer that begins in the supportive tissue surrounding the ovaries (stromal tumors) are rare and are not discussed in this booklet. The Cancer Information Service and the other NCI sources listed under "National Cancer Institute Information Resources" can provide information or suggest resources that deal with these types of ovarian cancer.
Ovarian cancer cells can break away from the ovary and spread to other tissues and organs in a process called shedding. When ovarian cancer sheds, it tends to seed (form new tumors) on the peritoneum (the large membrane that lines the abdomen) and on the diaphragm (the thin muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen). Fluid may collect in the abdomen. This condition is known as ascites. It may make a woman feel bloated, or her abdomen may look swollen.
Ovarian cancer cells can also enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system (the tissues and organs that produce and store cells that fight infection and disease). Once in the bloodstream or lymphatic system, the cancer cells can travel and form new tumors in other parts of the body.
A Service of the National Cancer Institute
The body is made up of many types of cells. Normally, cells grow, divide, and produce more cells when the body needs them. This orderly process helps to keep the body healthy. Sometimes, however, cells keep dividing when new cells are not needed. These extra cells form a mass of tissue, called a growth or tumor. Tumors can be benign or malignant.
Benign tumors are not cancer. They often can be removed and, in most cases, they do not come back. Cells in benign tumors do not spread to other parts of the body. Most important, benign tumors are rarely a threat to life.
Ovarian cysts are a different type of growth. They are fluid-filled sacs that form on the surface of an ovary. They are not cancer. Cysts often go away without treatment. If a cyst does not go away, the doctor may suggest removing it, especially if it seems to be growing.
Malignant tumors are cancer. Cells in these tumors are abnormal and divide without control or order. They can invade and damage nearby tissues and organs. Cancer cells can also spread (metastasize) from their original site to other parts of the body.
A malignant tumor that begins in the ovaries is called ovarian cancer. There are several types of ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer that begins on the surface of the ovary (epithelial carcinoma) is the most common type. This is the type of cancer discussed in this booklet. Ovarian cancer that begins in the egg-producing cells (germ cell tumors) and cancer that begins in the supportive tissue surrounding the ovaries (stromal tumors) are rare and are not discussed in this booklet. The Cancer Information Service and the other NCI sources listed under "National Cancer Institute Information Resources" can provide information or suggest resources that deal with these types of ovarian cancer.
Ovarian cancer cells can break away from the ovary and spread to other tissues and organs in a process called shedding. When ovarian cancer sheds, it tends to seed (form new tumors) on the peritoneum (the large membrane that lines the abdomen) and on the diaphragm (the thin muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen). Fluid may collect in the abdomen. This condition is known as ascites. It may make a woman feel bloated, or her abdomen may look swollen.
Ovarian cancer cells can also enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system (the tissues and organs that produce and store cells that fight infection and disease). Once in the bloodstream or lymphatic system, the cancer cells can travel and form new tumors in other parts of the body.
A Service of the National Cancer Institute
Sunday, July 02, 2006
ovarian cancer : Better Lymph Node Analysis May Improve Colon Cancer Treatment
Examining a colon cancer patient's lymph nodes may help doctors decide on the best treatment while helping them avoid unnecessary therapies, a new study shows.
Doctors routinely remove the nodes during surgery to determine if the cancer has spread to the nodes or not. If the cancer has not yet spread to the lymph nodes, surgery alone may be a sufficient treatment.
"One-third of patients with tumor-free lymph nodes have recurrences, and therefore, adjuvant (supplemental) chemotherapy may be beneficial in these patients," researchers at the John Wayne Cancer Institute and Saint John's Health Center in California explained in a prepared statement. "However, if all node-negative patients are treated, 70 percent will be subjected to unnecessary chemotherapy because surgery alone is curative."
Investigating further, the researchers studied 132 colon cancer patients to see whether analyzing lymph nodes could better predict effective therapy.
The patients in the study had dye injected near their tumors to stain the sentinel (first) lymph nodes. This dye showed the doctors the path by which lymph fluids, which can contain cancer cells, drain from the body's tissues. Then the lymph nodes were removed and studied.
"The sentinel lymph node is the first node to receive lymphatic drainage from a primary anatomical site and is therefore the most likely node to harbor a metastasis," the study authors explained.
Thirty percent of the patients studied had stage I cancer, 41 percent stage II and 29 percent stage III cancer. By analyzing the sentinel nodes, 23.6 percent of the patients had their status changed to a more severe stage. Of the 51 patients whose cancer had metastasized to the lymph nodes, researchers found tumors in the sentinel nodes of 45 patients, and found tumors in a total of 18 percent of the sentinel nodes. Only 6 percent of other lymph nodes were diagnosed with tumors. There was a false-negative rate of only 7.4 percent.
The researchers concluded that "lymphatic mapping and sentinel lymph node techniques are feasible and accurate in colon cancer... avoiding the unnecessary toxic effects and expense for those cured by surgery alone."
By Diana Kohnle
Doctors routinely remove the nodes during surgery to determine if the cancer has spread to the nodes or not. If the cancer has not yet spread to the lymph nodes, surgery alone may be a sufficient treatment.
"One-third of patients with tumor-free lymph nodes have recurrences, and therefore, adjuvant (supplemental) chemotherapy may be beneficial in these patients," researchers at the John Wayne Cancer Institute and Saint John's Health Center in California explained in a prepared statement. "However, if all node-negative patients are treated, 70 percent will be subjected to unnecessary chemotherapy because surgery alone is curative."
Investigating further, the researchers studied 132 colon cancer patients to see whether analyzing lymph nodes could better predict effective therapy.
The patients in the study had dye injected near their tumors to stain the sentinel (first) lymph nodes. This dye showed the doctors the path by which lymph fluids, which can contain cancer cells, drain from the body's tissues. Then the lymph nodes were removed and studied.
"The sentinel lymph node is the first node to receive lymphatic drainage from a primary anatomical site and is therefore the most likely node to harbor a metastasis," the study authors explained.
Thirty percent of the patients studied had stage I cancer, 41 percent stage II and 29 percent stage III cancer. By analyzing the sentinel nodes, 23.6 percent of the patients had their status changed to a more severe stage. Of the 51 patients whose cancer had metastasized to the lymph nodes, researchers found tumors in the sentinel nodes of 45 patients, and found tumors in a total of 18 percent of the sentinel nodes. Only 6 percent of other lymph nodes were diagnosed with tumors. There was a false-negative rate of only 7.4 percent.
The researchers concluded that "lymphatic mapping and sentinel lymph node techniques are feasible and accurate in colon cancer... avoiding the unnecessary toxic effects and expense for those cured by surgery alone."
By Diana Kohnle
ovarian cancer : Excess pounds may raise ovarian cancer risk
Being overweight in young adulthood or later in life may raise a woman's risk of ovarian cancer, particularly if she's never had children, researchers have found.
In a study of 2,110 women with and without ovarian cancer, researchers found that those who were relatively heavy, either in recent years or at the age of 18, were more likely than thinner women to develop the disease.
But the relationship between weight and ovarian cancer was strongest among women who'd never given birth. For them, cancer risk climbed in tandem with recent body mass index (BMI), a measure of weight in relation to height.
Among childless women, those who were obese in recent years had 2.5 times the risk of ovarian cancer compared with the thinnest women. The same pattern emerged when the researchers looked at the women's weight gain since age 18.
Dr. Julia Greer and her colleagues at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center report the findings in the journal Cancer.
A number of studies have looked at the relationship between body weight and ovarian cancer risk, with conflicting results. A connection is considered biologically plausible because excess body fat can raise levels of estrogen, as well as male sex hormones called androgens, which may in turn feed ovarian tumor development.
Pregnancy and childbirth are believed to lower the risk of ovarian cancer by reducing the number of times a woman ovulates in her lifetime, and therefore her estrogen exposure.
The new findings suggest that in overweight women who've had no children, the effects of excess body fat and "incessant" ovulation combine to raise the risk of ovarian cancer, according to the study authors.
Along with their greater estrogen exposure, these women may develop chronic inflammation in the ovaries as a result of continuous ovulation, the researchers speculate. This inflammation might then damage cells in a way that leads to cancer.
The findings offer yet another reason to maintain a healthy weight throughout life, Greer told Reuters Health. And that goes for all women, whether they've had children or not, she pointed out.
According to American Cancer Society estimates, Greer noted, at least one third of all cancer deaths in the U.S. each year are attributable to excess weight and obesity.
Copyright © 2006 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved.
In a study of 2,110 women with and without ovarian cancer, researchers found that those who were relatively heavy, either in recent years or at the age of 18, were more likely than thinner women to develop the disease.
But the relationship between weight and ovarian cancer was strongest among women who'd never given birth. For them, cancer risk climbed in tandem with recent body mass index (BMI), a measure of weight in relation to height.
Among childless women, those who were obese in recent years had 2.5 times the risk of ovarian cancer compared with the thinnest women. The same pattern emerged when the researchers looked at the women's weight gain since age 18.
Dr. Julia Greer and her colleagues at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center report the findings in the journal Cancer.
A number of studies have looked at the relationship between body weight and ovarian cancer risk, with conflicting results. A connection is considered biologically plausible because excess body fat can raise levels of estrogen, as well as male sex hormones called androgens, which may in turn feed ovarian tumor development.
Pregnancy and childbirth are believed to lower the risk of ovarian cancer by reducing the number of times a woman ovulates in her lifetime, and therefore her estrogen exposure.
The new findings suggest that in overweight women who've had no children, the effects of excess body fat and "incessant" ovulation combine to raise the risk of ovarian cancer, according to the study authors.
Along with their greater estrogen exposure, these women may develop chronic inflammation in the ovaries as a result of continuous ovulation, the researchers speculate. This inflammation might then damage cells in a way that leads to cancer.
The findings offer yet another reason to maintain a healthy weight throughout life, Greer told Reuters Health. And that goes for all women, whether they've had children or not, she pointed out.
According to American Cancer Society estimates, Greer noted, at least one third of all cancer deaths in the U.S. each year are attributable to excess weight and obesity.
Copyright © 2006 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved.
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