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Published on: May 07, 2022
3 minute read
By: Second Medic Expert

Ovarian Cancer - Cause Symptoms Diagnosis & Treatment

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries. The ovaries are two small, almond-shaped organs located on each side of the uterus. They are responsible for producing the eggs necessary for reproduction and for secreting the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common type of cancer in women and is most often diagnosed in women over the age of 60.

What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer?

The symptoms of ovarian cancer can be subtle and nonspecific, making it difficult to diagnose in its early stages. However, there are some common symptoms that may be a sign that something is not right.

Ovarian cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women. It usually occurs in women over the age of 50, but it can occur in younger women as well. Ovarian cancer is a very serious disease and can be fatal if not detected and treated early. There are many different causes of ovarian cancer, but the exact cause is unknown. Some risk factors include family history, being overweight, smoking, and certain health conditions such as endometriosis.

The most common symptom of ovarian cancer is abdominal pain or discomfort. Other symptoms may include bloating, frequent urination, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, and fatigue. It’s estimated that over 22,000 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer in the United States this year alone. Though it is the fifth leading cause of death among women, it is often referred to as a “silent killer” because its symptoms can be hard to detect.

The ovaries are a pair of small organs located on either side of the uterus. They produce eggs and hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Ovarian cancer begins when cells in the ovary start to grow uncontrollably. This can happen for a number of reasons, including genetic mutations or due to changes in hormone levels. Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the ovaries. The two main types of ovarian cancer are epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) and germ cell ovarian cancer (GOC).EOC is the most common type of ovarian cancer, accounting for about 85 to 90 percent of all cases. GOC is much less common, accounting for only 2 to 5 percent of cases.

The cause of ovarian cancer is not known, but there are some risk factors that may increase a woman’s chance of developing the disease. These include:

• Age: Women over the age of 50 are at increased risk.

• Family history: Having a first-degree relative (mother, sister

According to the National Cancer Institute, ovarian cancer is "a malignancy that arises from cells of the ovary." Although it is possible for ovarian cancer to develop in women of any age, the majority of cases are diagnosed in women over the age of 60. There are a number of different types of ovarian cancer, each with its own set of symptoms and prognosis. The most common type is epithelial ovarian cancer, which begins in the cells lining the ovaries. Other less common types include germ cell tumors (which begin in the eggs) and stromal tumors (which begin in the connective tissue).

The ovaries are two small, almond-shaped organs located on either side of the uterus. These organs produce the eggs that travel through the fallopian tubes and are fertilized by sperm in the womb. Ovarian cancer usually begins in the epithelium, which is the thin layer of cells that covers the ovaries. There are several possible causes of ovarian cancer, though the exact cause is unknown. One theory suggests that it may be caused by an imbalance of hormones, while another points to a history of pelvic inflammatory disease or other infections as a possible risk factor.

There are many different possible causes of ovarian cancer. One of the most common is a family history of the disease. Women who have close relatives (such as a mother or sister) who have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer are more likely to develop the disease themselves. Other possible risk factors include certain inherited genetic conditions, such as Lynch syndrome and BRCA1/2 mutations. Being overweight or obese is also thought to increase the risk, as well as taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) during menopause.

The cause of ovarian cancer is not known, but there are several risk factors that may increase a woman's chance of developing the disease. These include:

• A family history of ovarian cancer or breast cancer

• A personal history of breast cancer

• Obesity

• Never giving birth

• Taking estrogen-only hormone replacement therapy after menopause

• Use of fertility drugs

The symptoms of ovarian cancer can be difficult to identify because they are often nonspecific and mimic other conditions. Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries. The ovaries are a pair of small organs located in the woman's pelvis, one on each side of the uterus. Ovarian cancer usually starts in the cells lining the ovaries. Ovarian cancer is often called a "silent killer" because symptoms may not appear until the disease is in its advanced stages. When symptoms do occur, they may be nonspecific and can mimic other conditions or diseases, making ovarian cancer difficult to detect early.

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Curbing Dengue: How to Protect Yourself and Your Community

Dengue fever is a growing public health concern, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions where the Aedes mosquito thrives. With millions of cases reported annually, it’s essential to understand how to curb dengue and protect yourself and your community from this potentially life-threatening disease. This blog will cover effective strategies to reduce the spread of dengue, symptoms to watch for, and tips on preventing mosquito bites.

Understanding Dengue Fever

Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus, which is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, primarily Aedes aegypti. This mosquito is known for its black and white stripes and tends to bite during the day, with peak biting periods early in the morning and before dusk.

Once a person is infected, symptoms usually appear within 4 to 10 days. These symptoms include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, rash, and mild bleeding (such as nose or gum bleeds). In severe cases, dengue can develop into dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) or dengue shock syndrome (DSS), which can be fatal if not treated promptly.

How Dengue Spreads

Understanding how dengue spreads is crucial to curbing its transmission. The dengue virus cannot spread directly from person to person. Instead, an infected person must first be bitten by a mosquito, which then carries the virus to another person through subsequent bites. This is why controlling the mosquito population is vital in preventing outbreaks.

The Aedes mosquito breeds in stagnant water, such as in flower pots, buckets, discarded tires, and other containers. Urban environments with poor waste management and sanitation provide ideal breeding grounds for these mosquitoes, contributing to the rapid spread of dengue.

Strategies to Curb Dengue

Curbing dengue requires a multi-faceted approach that involves individual actions, community efforts, and government interventions. Here are some key strategies to reduce the spread of dengue:

1. Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Sites

The most effective way to curb dengue is to eliminate mosquito breeding sites. Since Aedes mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water, it’s crucial to regularly inspect and clean areas where water can accumulate. Here’s how you can do your part:

- Empty and Clean Water Containers: Regularly empty and scrub water containers such as buckets, flower pots, and pet dishes to remove any mosquito eggs.

- Dispose of Waste Properly: Dispose of old tires, bottles, and cans that can collect rainwater. Proper waste management reduces potential breeding grounds.

- Cover Water Storage: If you store water in tanks or containers, make sure they are tightly covered to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs.

- Clear Drains and Gutters: Ensure that drains and gutters are not clogged and that water flows freely to avoid pooling.

2. Use Mosquito Repellents and Protective Clothing

Since it’s not always possible to eliminate all mosquito breeding sites, personal protection is essential. Using mosquito repellents and wearing protective clothing can significantly reduce your chances of getting bitten.

- Apply Mosquito Repellent: Use repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus on exposed skin. Reapply as directed, especially during peak mosquito activity times.

- Wear Protective Clothing: When outdoors, especially during the early morning and late afternoon, wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks to minimize skin exposure.

- Sleep Under Mosquito Nets: If you live in or are visiting a dengue-prone area, sleep under a mosquito net, even during the day, to prevent bites.

3. Community Involvement and Education

Community involvement is crucial in the fight against dengue. Educating your community about the risks of dengue and how to prevent it can lead to collective action that significantly reduces the mosquito population.

- Organize Clean-Up Campaigns: Participate in or organize community clean-up efforts to eliminate mosquito breeding sites. Regularly scheduled clean-ups can make a big difference.

- Educate and Raise Awareness: Use community centers, schools, and social media to spread awareness about dengue prevention. The more people know, the more likely they are to take preventive measures.

- Support Local Health Initiatives: Collaborate with local health authorities and support government initiatives aimed at controlling mosquito populations and preventing dengue.

4. Government and Public Health Interventions

Governments and public health organizations play a critical role in curbing dengue by implementing large-scale interventions. These include:

- Mosquito Control Programs: Governments often conduct fogging operations, which involve spraying insecticides in dengue-prone areas to kill adult mosquitoes. While effective in reducing mosquito populations, these efforts must be combined with community action for lasting results.

- Public Health Campaigns: Public health campaigns aimed at raising awareness and educating the public about dengue prevention are essential. Governments can use media outlets, such as television, radio, and social media, to reach a broad audience.

- Disease Surveillance: Monitoring and reporting dengue cases help health authorities track the spread of the disease and respond promptly to outbreaks. Timely intervention can prevent the situation from escalating.

Recognizing Dengue Symptoms and Seeking Treatment

Despite your best efforts to prevent dengue, it’s essential to know the symptoms and seek medical attention if you suspect you’ve been infected. Early diagnosis and proper medical care can prevent complications and save lives.

If you experience symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, and rash, seek medical attention immediately. There is no specific treatment for dengue, but supportive care, such as hydration and pain management, can help alleviate symptoms. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required to manage complications.

Conclusion

Curbing dengue is a shared responsibility that involves individual actions, community efforts, and government interventions. By eliminating mosquito breeding sites, protecting yourself from bites, educating your community, and supporting public health initiatives, you can play a significant role in preventing the spread of dengue. Remember, every effort counts when it comes to protecting yourself and your community from this dangerous disease. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and take action to curb dengue today.