Category Archives: Chemotherapy

Ines M. Alfaro

Understanding renal cancer

January 13, 2018

Understanding renal cancer: What is kidney cancer?

Understanding renal cancer

Understanding renal cancer is very important for your proper planning of your treatment

Understanding renal cancer is very important. It is also known as kidney cancer is as the name suggest a type of cancer affecting the kidney. This is a disease associated with the abnormal growth of kidney cells. In other words, the renal cells become malignant (cancerous) and multiply rapidly in an uncontrollable manner leading to the formation of a tumor. Speaking to the experts at AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center under the able leadership of doctor Dalal Akoury, it is evident that nearly all kidney cancers first appear in the lining of tiny tubes (tubules) in the kidney.

Scientifically, this type of kidney cancer is called renal cell carcinoma. And unlike with the ovarian cancer, this type of cancer can be detected in good time before they spread (metastasize) to other distant organs in the body. The good news about early diagnosis is that successful treatment becomes very easy and effective. While these type of cancer is detectable easily, it is important to note that, before diagnosis is done, these kinds of tumors can grow very first to be quite large such that by the time the operation is done, it is quite a mountain.

Understanding renal cancer: The kidney’s functions

The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs, each about the size of a fist. They lie in the lower abdomen on each side of the spine. Their function is to clean the blood, removing waste products and making urine. Scientifically, the causes of kidney cancer are not known. However, some factors appear to increase the risk of getting kidney cancer. Like for instance, kidney cancer occurs mostly in aging people, normally age 40 and above. The following are some of the risk factors for kidney cancer:

Smoking – cigarette smoking increases the risk for contracting kidney cancer twice more than that of nonsmokers. Smoking cigars may also increase your risk as well.

Being male – Men are about twice as vulnerable as women to get kidney cancer.

Being obese – Extra weight may cause changes to hormones that increase your risk.

Administering certain pain medications for a long time – This includes over-the-counter drugs in addition to prescription drugs.

Having advanced renal disease or being on long-term dialysis, a treatment for people with kidneys that have stopped working

Having certain genetic conditions, such as von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease or inherited papillary renal cell carcinoma

Having a family history of renal cancer – The risk is especially high in siblings.

Being exposed to certain chemicals, such as asbestos, cadmium, benzene, organic solvents, or certain herbicides

Having high blood pressure – Doctors don’t know whether high blood pressure or medication used to treat it is the source of the increased risk.

Being black – The risk in blacks is slightly higher than in whites. No one knows why.

Having lymphoma – For an unknown reason, there is an increased risk of renal cancer in patients with lymphoma.

Finally, doctor Akoury explains that having these risk factors does not necessarily mean that you will get renal cancer. It’s also true that you can fail to have all these but still suffer from renal cancer. As AWAREmed health center, our doors are always open for you and just by a phone call, we will get to your needs professionally.

Understanding renal cancer: What is kidney cancer?

 

Facebooktwitterpinterestlinkedin
Their Health is Your wealth,

Ovarian cancer diagnosis

January 13, 2018

Ovarian cancer diagnosis: How am I Diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer diagnosis

Ovarian cancer diagnosis. In fact, for any positive results, the patient should consult with a gynecologic oncologist

It is a very painful exercise that ovarian cancer diagnosis is never accurate in the early stages of its formation. It pains because most women with ovarian cancer are diagnosed when their condition is at an advanced-stage of the disease (usually at the stage III or IV). This is primarily because the symptoms of ovarian cancer, particularly in the early stages, are not severe or intense. This state of vagueness makes it difficult for accurate diagnosis to be established.

In fact in most cases, ovarian cancer is not detected during routine pelvic exams. This can only be done in very rare cases if the doctor notes that the ovary is enlarged denoting that the cancer cells are forming abnormally in the ovaries. As painful as it may sound, every woman is advised to be very close to her body. Women needs to be the ambassadors of their own health especially when it comes to ovarian cancer. For this to be detected early, which is not always the case, you have a role to play because the sooner ovarian cancer is found and treated, the better for a woman’s chances for survival. It’s worth repeating that, as a woman, it is important to know that early stage symptoms can be difficult to detect, though are not always silent. As a result, it is important that women listen to their bodies and watch for early symptoms that may present. And if or when you notice anything, whether you are sure or not what it is (symptom or not) consult with your doctor immediately. You could be helping a great deal in the treatment process of ovarian cancer.

Ovarian cancer diagnosis: Screening tests

Although screening test isn’t a finality in detecting ovarian cancer, the following test can be offered to women who are at high risk for the disease:

Pelvic Exam: this is should be a mandatory annual vaginal exam for women aged over 18. And women aged over 35 should receive an annual rectovaginal exam.

Transvaginal Sonography: This ultrasound, performed with a small instrument placed in the vagina, is appropriate, especially for women at high risk for ovarian cancer.

CA-125 Test: This blood test determines if the level of CA-125, a protein produced by ovarian cancer cells, has increased in the blood of a woman at high risk for ovarian cancer, or a woman with an abnormal pelvic examination. This test may not be a key marker for the disease.

Ovarian cancer diagnosis: Positive tests

For any positive results, the patient should consult with a gynecologic oncologist for the evaluation of the result. However, the most ideal way to accurately confirm an ovarian cancer diagnosis is with a biopsy where the doctor takes a sample of the tumor and examines it under a microscope. We’re aware that a positive result is not any good news both to the patient and loved ones. In your lowest moments like this, AWAREmed health center will always be there for you and your loved ones to give you all the professional treatment and support you need. Talk to us today and let us help you the best way we can.

Ovarian cancer diagnosis: How am I Diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer?

 

 

 

 

 

 

Facebooktwitterpinterestlinkedin
Grass and bokeh

Ovarian cancer Symptoms

January 13, 2018

Ovarian cancer Symptoms: The shape and position of ovaries

Ovarian cancer Symptoms

Ovarian cancer Symptoms is as difficult to detect as is evident in the lively faces

From the experts opinion at the AWAREmed health and wellness resource center under the able leadership of doctor Dalal Akoury, and experts across the globe, ovarian cancer symptoms and signs are not easy to detect. This is further complicated especially in the early stages of the formation of this type of cancer. The simple reason is partly adduced to the fact that the two ovaries are small, almond-shaped organs on either side of the uterus and are deep within the abdominal cavity. But all the same, where there is smoke, you will not miss the presence of fire. Therefore, the following are some of the ovarian cancer symptoms and signs identified by women at some point during the formation of ovarian cancer:

  • Trouble eating or feeling full quickly
  • Pelvic or abdominal pain
  • Feeling the need to urinate urgently or often
  • Bloating

That is not all, we also have some unique symptoms of ovarian cancers experience by most women before and during the formation of ovarian cancer. Some of them may include feeling body:

  • Upset stomach or heartburn
  • Pain during sex
  • Fatigue
  • Constipation or menstrual changes
  • Back pain

Because of the nature of this type of cancer, await and see experiment is not recommended at all. In fact, if these feelings and symptoms are new and besides that they are also persisted and regular for more over a fort night, you must not hesitate any further. You must seek an appointment with your doctor or a gynecologic oncologist immediately. Your specialist will examine your condition and before surgery if cancer is suspected, they will advise you professionally on the next cause of action. This article is not a diagnosis in itself. It is only meant to help you be more informed about certain dangers associated with ovarian cancer and all other types of cancers. Remember that under no circumstance must you choose to self-medicate. It is dangerous and harmful. You can always schedule an appointment with experts at AWAREmed health and wellness resource center anytime for all your concerns and our team of experts will address all your questions professionally.

Ovarian cancer Symptoms: Persistence of Symptoms

Finally, and like we have already mentioned, when the symptoms are persistent, when they do not resolve with normal interventions (like diet change, exercise, laxatives, rest) it is important in fact let me make it a must and immediate for such a woman to run quickly to see her doctor. Persistence of symptoms is key. Because these signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer have been described as vague or silent, only approximately 19 percent of ovarian cancer is diagnosed in the early stages. Symptoms typically occur in advanced stages when tumor growth creates pressure on the bladder and rectum, and fluid begins to form. So now that you know, don subject your health to further danger. Call us today and let us help you professionally.

Ovarian cancer Symptoms: The shape and position of ovaries

 

Facebooktwitterpinterestlinkedin
embryonic stem cell

Ovarian cancer complications

January 13, 2018

Ovarian cancer complications: The abnormal grow of cells

Ovarian cancer complications

Ovarian cancer complications when it happens, the patient will need a lot of support from loved ones

Ovarian cancer complications occurs in women because they are the carries of the ovaries. This type of cancer comes about depending on the location, type and stage of the disease. When the malignant (cancerous) cells are found inside, near, or on the outer layer of the ovaries the individual will suffer such complications. As we progress, it is important that we define what an ovary is. Doctor Dalal Akoury MD, President and founder of AWAREmed health and wellness resource center explains that ovary is any of two small, almond-shaped body organs situated on each side of the uterus. Their primary function is the storage of eggs, germ cells, and also produces female hormones estrogen and progesterone. When there is the presence of abnormal growth of cells in this organ, the patient can be diagnosed with an ovarian cancer.

Ovarian cancer complications: Cancer basics

Basically and as already mention, cancer develops when abnormal cells in any part of the body which in our case, is in the ovary, begins to grow and multiply uncontrollably. This abnormal cell growth is common among all cancer types and needs to be monitored closely from time to time to help in early detection of any formation of cancer. And because the body is majorly formed of cells, these cells often separates or divide themselves to form new cells for various reasons including the replacement of old and worn out dying cells and also to repair any injuries. This unique nature of continuous growth and division, they are very distinct from other cells. That is to say, instead of dying out, they tend to outlive the normal cells and progressively create new abnormal cells which eventually forms tumor. When this happens, a lot of pressure is exerted on the organs closer to the ovaries causing further complications.

In many cases doctor Akoury explains, cancer cells move to other parts of the body, multiplying rapidly to replace normal tissue through a process known as metastasis. This occurs as the cancer cells move into the bloodstream or lymph system of the body. However, even with that understanding, it is important to note that cancer cells that spread from other body organ like the breast or colon to the ovary are not necessarily ovarian cancer. All kinds of cancers are determined by their place of original site of the malignancy.

Studies have established that women falling in the ages 35-74, are fifth leading in ovarian cancer related deaths. And studies has also established that for every 75 women, one will develop ovarian cancer during her lifetime. Interestingly, the American Cancer Society has estimated that there will be over 22,280 new cases of ovarian cancer diagnosed this year alone and more than 14,240 women will die from ovarian cancer this year. This is not meant to scare you, but to help you be on high alert because early detection of ovarian cancer and all other types of cancer, the treatment assurance is over 90%. Nonetheless, because of ovarian cancer’s non-specific symptoms and lack of early detection tests, about 20 percent of all cases are found early in stage I or II. But if detected in stage III or higher, the survival rate can be as low as 28%. Due to the nature of the disease, each woman diagnosed with ovarian cancer has a different profile and it is impossible to provide a general prognosis. You can always call us at AWAREmed health center for more clarification about these complicated health matters.

Ovarian cancer complications: The abnormal grow of cells

 

 

Facebooktwitterpinterestlinkedin
cropped-bigstock-Child-With-Cancer-18271460.jpg

Pancreatic cancer solutions

January 11, 2018

Pancreatic cancer solutions: Treatment by stages

Pancreatic cancer solutions

Pancreatic cancer solutions must be attained by all means for patients to live a more comfortable life

If you are struggling with any cancer, your biggest interest would be where the right solution would come from. This is what AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center under the leadership of doctor Dalal Akoury wants to give to you. We appreciate that there are very many types of cancers. But for this purpose, we want to focus on pancreatic cancer solutions. This will interest you and we urge to stay with us and feel free to ask any question you have as we progress into the discussion. The right treatment for pancreatic cancer will depend on how far the disease has spread, or by its stage. It is easy to understand the stages of pancreatic cancer. But what is difficult is attempting to stage pancreatic cancer without conducting some surgery. Most specialists choose pancreatic cancer treatments based on imaging studies, surgical findings, and the individual’s general state health and stability.

Pancreatic cancer solutions: Stages of pancreatic cancer

Stage is a descriptive term in cancer treatment to ascertain the extent of the cancer’s spread. The stages of pancreatic cancer are used to guide treatment and to classify patients for clinical trials. The stages of pancreatic cancer are:

Stage 0: No spread. Pancreatic cancer is limited to a single layer of cells in the pancreas. The pancreatic cancer is not visible on imaging tests or even to the naked eye.

Stage 1: Local growth. Pancreatic cancer is limited to the pancreas, but has grown to less than 2 centimeters across (stage IA) or greater than 2 centimeters (stage IB).

Stage 2: Local spread. Pancreatic cancer has grown outside the pancreas, or has spread to nearby lymph nodes.

Stage 3: Wider spread. The tumor has expanded into nearby major blood vessels or nerves but has not metastasized.

Stage 4: Confirmed spread. Pancreatic cancer has spread to most body organs.

Determining pancreatic cancer’s stage is often tricky. Imaging tests like CT scans and ultrasound provide some information, but knowing exactly how far pancreatic cancer has spread usually requires surgery.

Since surgery has risks, doctors first determine whether pancreatic cancer appears to be removable by surgery (resectable). Pancreatic cancer is then described as follows:

Resectable: On imaging tests, pancreatic cancer hasn’t spread much and is still within reach to be removed surgically. Studies has established that about 10% of pancreatic cancers are resectable when first diagnosed.

Locally advanced (unresectable): Pancreatic cancer has grown and invaded major blood vessels on imaging tests. At this level, it isn’t easy to surgically remove the tumor.

Metastatic: Pancreatic cancer has clearly spread to other organs that no surgery can help in removing the cancer.

If pancreatic cancer is resectable, surgery followed by chemotherapy or radiation or both may extend survival.

Pancreatic cancer solutions: Palliative treatment for pancreatic cancer

As pancreatic cancer progresses, the No. 1 priority of treatment will shift from extending life to alleviating symptoms, especially pain. Numerous treatments can help protect against the discomfort from advanced pancreatic cancer:

  • Procedures like bile duct stents can relieve jaundice, thus reducing itching and loss of appetite associated with bile obstruction.
  • Opioid analgesics can help relieve pain.
  • Antidepressants and counseling can help treat depression common in advanced pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic Cancer solutions: Treatment done by Stages

 

Facebooktwitterpinterestlinkedin

  • Recent Posts

  • Blog Categories