Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer has been known as a silent killer, simply because the early symptoms of this cancer are often misdiagnosed. Because of this, only 20% of ovarian cancers are found before they have spread past the ovaries. The cancer begins in the ovaries which are only about the size of an almond, and are located on each side of the uterus. The ovaries are responsible for producing the eggs and releasing them into the fallopian tubes. They also produce two female hormones known as estrogen and progesterone. High levels of these hormones is linked to the cause of ovarian cancer.



Tumors which form in the ovaries can be cancerous, or non-cancerous. The non-cancerous tumors do not spread, but they do cause the body to create more estrogen, which in turn can cause cancer. Tumors that are cancerous eventually spread to the outside of the ovaries and spread through the bloodstream or lymph nodes to other parts of the body. The tumors can affect one or both ovaries.



If the cancer is diagnosed early, one has a better chance of surviving. But the early symptoms are difficult to diagnose because they are similar to many other common ailments. The main difference between the symptoms of ovarian cancer, and those of common ailments is that the symptoms of ovarian cancer do not fluctuate, or disappear, but rather they gradually become worse as the cancer cells grow. Most symptoms of common ailments will disappear within a day or two.



Some of the symptoms are digestive disorders, bladder disorders, bloating, constipation, fatigue, and lower back pain. If these symptoms occur and do not go away after a week then it may be a good idea to have it checked out by a medical doctor.



Knowing whether or not one is at risk may also help to determine whether the symptoms are something to worry about or not. As one ages the risk of ovarian cancer increases, and usually the cancer occurs in women who have gone through menopause. Hormone replacement therapy also plays a major role.



Obesity is linked to more severe cancers, and increases the risk by 80%. A drug called danazol, has also been known to increase the risk. It is a male hormone (androgen) which is used to treat endometriosis. A high fat diet also largely increases the risk.



The best defense is to eat a raw food diet, with lots of leafy green vegetables, fruits, nuts, and herbs. Avoiding animal proteins, refined sugars, as well as processed foods will help to maintain a healthy weight, thus eliminating one of the greatest risk factors.

Ovarian Cancer In Women: Be Aware Of The Symptoms

The symptoms of ovarian cancer in women can be difficult to notice. Many people may put the signs down to something else. In the United Kingdom alone 7000 women a year are diagnosed with ovarian cancer.



If the cancer is diagnosed early the treatment may be more effective, the people more at risk of developing ovarian cancer are those aged 30+, and post menopausal women.



It is important for women to know that a cervical smear test, does not pick up on ovarian cancer, smear tests usually just look for abnormal cells that may be a sign of cervical cancer.



Some of the early signs that you may have ovarian cancer are;



- Constant pains in the abdomen, much like period pains
- Bloating of the stomach (not just after eating)
- Loss of appetite
- Frequent urination or having trouble urinating
- Bowel problems such as diarrhea or constipation
- Tiredness
- Pains in the back or neck
- Weight loss (only if it is unexplained)



As I stated above these symptoms can often be mistook for something else. Some women may feel abdominal pains before their period along with a bloated feeling.



Because symptoms of ovarian cancer in women can be like regular everyday problems for most, because of this delay the cancer can often spread. This makes treatment more intense and the success rate may be lower than that if the cancer was diagnosed earlier.



This cancer can sometimes be hereditary, if 2 or more members of your family have previously suffered with breast or ovarian cancer you should let your doctor know.



Some younger women often ignore the symptoms mentioned above, this may be because they feel that the cancer is a problem that only affects the older woman. It may be because they have no idea that the symptoms they are experiencing are like those for ovarian cancer.



If you are noticing any of the above symptoms on a daily basis, I urge you to seek advice from your doctor or other health professional. It may be nothing to worry about, but it is better to be safe than sorry.



It is not a very common form of cancer, more common forms are breast, cervical cancer in women or testicular cancer in men.



If you think you may be suffering with any of these symptoms then you should speak with your doctor as soon as possible, I urge you to do this for any symptoms, not just the ones I have mentioned above. If you have already spoken with your doctor, and your symptoms are getting worse, go back and ask your doctor for more accurate tests.



As the symptoms of ovarian cancer in women are similar to those you would get with a period, you may feel like it is not important enough to warrant a trip to the doctor, this can be detrimental to your health. Early detection of the cancer may save lives! If you or someone you know is having any of these problems please get it checked out.

Ovarian Cancer - New Evidence

Unfortunately, one of the most lethal of all female cancers, ovarian cancer is now the 5th leading cause of cancer death for women, afflicting 1 out of 58 women in the United States. When diagnosed early, the five-year survival rate can be as high as 95%. However, most cases are diagnosed in a more advanced stage, and the five-year survival rate drops to 20-30%. Until recently, ovarian cancer was labeled the "silent killer" as early diagnosis was difficult due to a lack of signs and symptoms early on. However, based on recent evidence, we now know there are specific signs and symptoms which may present earlier within the disease process- when a cure is still possible.



Background



Before we look at these signs and symptoms, it.s important to understand the definition of ovarian cancer, and how the disease progresses. Ovarian cancer begins in the cells within the ovaries, causing a tumor to grow and "seed" to other areas within the body. These malignant cells can implant anywhere in the abdominal cavity, but are more likely to implant in sites along and adjacent to the abdominal fluid circulation (bowel/bladder/spleen/liver/diaphragm/lymph nodes).



There are several thoughts as to what causes a tumor of the ovary to grow. One main theory involves the role of estrogen and progesterone in frequent ovulation- causing the ovaries to work over time. This is due to evidence that women who have had children, taken birth control pills, breastfed, or have had their tubes tied- providing a respite the ovaries- tend to have a lower risk of developing ovarian cancer than women who don't make these lifestyle choices. Other risks point to a personal or family history of breast, colon cancer or prostate cancer, being a carrier of the BRCA 1 or II gene mutation, use of talc powder, consuming high fat/processed foods, smoking, and not exercising regularly.



Promising Evidence:



Recent studies have proven that signs and symptoms are often present early within the disease. These include persistent complaints of gas, nausea, indigestion, bloating, feeling full early after meals, urinary frequency/urgency, change in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, or shortness of breath. In a recent survey of 1,725 women diagnosed with ovarian cancer, 95% of the respondents indicated they experienced any one of these symptoms up to a year before being diagnosed, experiencing up to 20-30 episodes of symptoms each month. Although many of these symptoms can be attributed to other diseases, we are now aware that ovarian cancer should be considered in cases when other diseases cannot be identified as the cause.



Evaluation



As there is no specific test to diagnose this disease, ovarian cancer may often be diagnosed through a combination of exams and tests including the pelvic exam, ultrasound, blood tests, and surgical biopsy. Based on the results of these tests, treatment may involve further surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.



Following treatment, those with a history of this disease will require life-long follow up with periodic surveillance to identify recurrence. Survivors are encouraged to report any new symptoms to their provider, ensuring that every one of them is thoroughly investigated.



If you have any concerns, have experienced any of these symptoms, or have a family history of breast, ovarian, colon, or prostate cancer, it's important to schedule a visit with your health care provider for evaluation. Early detection is vital in order to receive the best possible treatment.

Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer begins in the cells that form the ovaries. Among these cells are surface epithelial cells, germ cells, and the sex cord-stromal cells. This is why cancer cells that metastasize from other organ sites to the ovary are not called ovarian cancer. Breast and colon cancers are examples of such cancers.



It has been observed that the majority of women with epithelial ovarian cancer are not diagnosed early enough. The diagnosis is done only when the disease has reached an advanced stage. By that time, the cancer spreads to the upper abdomen (stage I) or beyond (stage II). The chance of these women surviving five years is only 15 to 20 percent. But the chance of survival for the same period is 90% for patients in stage I, and about 70% for stage II patients.



Some ovarian tumors are benign, in which case the patient can be cured by surgically removing one ovary or the part of the ovary hosting the tumor. Some are malignant or cancerous. Malignant ovarian tumors are generally of three types: epithelial tumors, germ cell tumors and stromal tumors.



Epithelial tumors, accounting for most of the cases, develop in a layer of cube-shaped cells known as the germinal epithelium, which surrounds the outside of the ovaries. Its victims are mostly teenagers and young women. Germ cell tumors are not so common, and are found in the egg-maturation cells of the ovary. These patients can not only be cured, but also their fertility protected. Dangerous if allowed to spread, stromal tumors originate from connective tissue cells that hold the ovary together and produce the female hormones estrogen and progesterone.



All ovarian tumors are not cancerous. Benign cysts, dermoid tumors, and borderline malignant tumors all are distinct from ovarian cancer. These are curable and rarely prove fatal.

Ovarian Cancer Survival Rates - The Truth

Ovarian cancer survival rates are as ambiguous as a weather report that says such and such percent chance of rain today. Everyone knows it's a hundred percent chance of rain when it's raining, and zero when it's not.



However to throw out the statistics in the standard way, according to the American Cancer Society more than 20,000 women are expected to be diagnosed with ovarian cancer this year, and 15,000 will die from the disease. Does that mean that three quarters of the women who receive an ovarian cancer prognosis are going to die? Not necessarily. On an individual basis it's just like the weather prediction for rain.



It really all depends on how a women wants to go about treating her cancer whether she survives or dies, not to mention whether or not she has an ovarian cancer recurrence. Of course there are innumerable variables to be factored in such as her age, the type of cancer, how soon she discovered it, and how quickly she began dealing with it. Technically speaking there are more than 30 different types of ovarian cancer - all of which are categorized by the type of cell where they originate.



So what! If you want to be brutally honest and I want to, cancer is cancer. Regardless of the type or stage, it's manifest due to a weakened immune system and the only hope of overcoming it is by freeing up and assisting the body's own immune responses. There are so many excellent remedies for performing both of those task in the world of holistic cancer treatments, and more being uncovered all the time.



For starters besides stating the obvious of avoiding all foods that feed cancer such as sugar and foods or substances that weaken the immune system, a good cleansing fast is initially recommended. A juice fast is standard, drinking only fresh carrot, beet, apple, and ginger juice for example, to cleanse the colon and rejuvenate the liver. Periodic colon and liver cleanses are similarly helpful, as is a diet of green foods along with other super foods.



There are so many herbal remedies such as Essiac tea and amazingly effective diets such as The Budwig and Hallelujah Diet. The list is all but endless. Why not take advantage of all of them? If you do the research into alternative cancer cures and become seriously committed, your chances of not being one of the more than seventy-five percent of the women who according to ovarian cancer survival rates succumb to the disease, are as good as a zero chance of rain when the sun is shining.

Ovarian Cancer - The Facts You Need to Be Aware Of

The leading cause of death from genital malignancies in women is ovarian cancer. It accounts for almost 4% of all cancer deaths in women although not the highest incidence among reproductive tumors. Over time, the mortality rates have increased, this is most likely because of lack of early detection methods. Caucasian women show higher incidence rates of ovarian cancer than African-American women.



The cause of ovarian cancer is not known. The risk factors includes age, women older than 40 years old; Family history, also heredo-familial disease can be a major risk factor; null parity, a woman who has not given birth to an infant capable of survival; history of infertility; history of dysmenorrhea; and the use of ovulation-stimulating medications increase the risk that the p53 which is a tumor suppressor gene to mutate.



Most of these types of cancer are epithelial, although some are adenocarcinomas which are tumors that arise from glandular structures, which mostly are a component of most organs of the body. Ovarian cancer tends to spread and grow silently until manifestations such as pelvic pressure felt on adjacent organs or abdominal distention tends to occur that is when the woman should seek medical care. During which these pressure-related manifestations occur, the malignancy has usually spread to the uterus, ligaments as well as to the fallopian tubes. Also, they tend to spread to the nearby organs and associated structures. The usual routes of metastasis for this cancer are lymphatic tissues, through the blood which is hemetogenous, through the local extension and peritoneal seeding. The cancer may also invade the bowel, liver and other neighboring organs. Aggressive metastasis has occurred when the pelvic blood vessels are already involved.



There are clinical manifestations of ovarian cancer. These are urinary frequency and urgency, pleural effusion, increase in abdominal girth, weight loss accompanied by malnutrition, ascites associated with dyspnea (difficulty breathing), pain caused by the pressure from the growing tumor and also from the effects of bowel obstruction, constipation and most of all general severe pain. As we all know, Pain is subjective. This means that whenever the person says they are experiencing severe pain that is what their experiences are and should be addressed.



The indicators usually do not appear until the malignancy is already established although sometimes not until it has already spread. Sometimes the malignancy is being diagnosed at an earlier stage, although most affected individuals may eventually have terminal cancer due to late diagnosis for the reason that it is asymptomatic.



Before a woman gets too alarmed about possibly having this type of cancer gather the facts and address it in a logical, informed way.Consult your physician and give him or her all of the symptoms and move forward in determining the proper diagnosis.

Ovarian Cancer Symptoms and Signs That You Need To Know

Ovarian cancer symptoms and signs are often difficult to notice. Individuals may think the signs are down to something else. In the United Kingdom roughly 7000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer per year. If ovarian cancer is diagnosed early the treatment may be more effective, the people more at risk of developing this cancer are those aged 30+, and post menopausal women.



Women need to understand that just a cervical smear test is not sufficient enough to determine if she has ovarian cancer. That test only detects cells that are abnormal which can be a sign or symptom of cervical cancer.



Some of the signs that women need to look for is for example the sudden urge to no longer eat, or urinating frequently. These are two signs that come along with this form of cancer, but of course these are also symptoms of other issues as well. Therefore you should also look for other symptoms such as constant fatigue or pain in your neck or back area. Sudden weight loss is also another possible sign that you need to be aware of.



Other symptoms can include feeling bloated even if you have not ate anything, along with diarrhea and constipation. These are all things you need to take notice of if you suspect that you may have this form of cancer. It is important to note though that even if you experience all these symptoms that they only way to truly know is to get fully diagnosed by your doctor.



As it says above these symptoms can often be mistaken for something else. Many women may already feel abdominal pains before their period is even due along with a full or gassy feeling.



The symptoms and signs can be like similar to everyday problems that most people will suffer with, this accidental delay can cause the cancer to spread. This makes treatment much more intense, tiring and the success rate may be significantly lower than that if the cancer was diagnosed at an earlier stage.



This cancer can be hereditary, if any of your family have suffered with breast or ovarian cancer you should let your doctor know and always be aware of the ovarian cancer symptoms and signs. Ovarian cancer symptoms and signs are similar to those you would get with a menstrual cycle you may feel like it is not important enough to warrant a trip to the doctor, this can be detrimental to your health. Early detection of ovarian cancer may save lives! If you or someone you know is having any of these problems please get it checked out.

Ovarian Cancer - Early Symptoms?

Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer death in women. It has been known for a long time as the "silent killer". It earned this name because of the supposed lack of symptoms when cancer of the ovary is in early stages, when it is still highly curable. Recent evidence suggests that early symptoms are often present but overlooked.



There are approximately 22,000 new cases, and over 15,000 deaths from ovarian cancer yearly. Most, but not all, cases of ovarian cancer occur in the post-menopausal years. In three out of four patients, cancer of the ovary is usually discovered during late stages when it has spread inside the abdomen to other organs. At that point, the cure rates are low. Symptoms may include abdominal bloating or pain, feeling full early, or pelvic pressure.



Unfortunately, early stage cancer may not cause many symptoms, or they may be vague and overlooked. Over the past five years, research has shown that some of these symptoms may actually occur earlier and are simply ignored by either the patient or the physician. The trouble is that these general symptoms are most often not related to cancer and are simply intestinal disturbances due to something you ate or a viral infection. If you have abdominal or pelvic symptoms that are new, seem unusual, persist for several weeks, or are worsening, tell your doctor. This is especially important if you have a family history of cancer, especially breast or ovarian cancer.



What happens after you talk with and are examined by your doctor depends upon what is found and your age. It may be necessary to undergo ultrasound, computerized tomography (CT) or other imaging studies as well as the CA-125 blood test.



Unfortunately good screening tools are lacking, but the next best thing is early diagnosis. Knowing your body and answering its call to action is very important. Equally important is to insist that your symptoms are explained fully by appropriate examination and testing. If not, it may be time for a second opinion with a gynecologist or gynecologic oncologist.

Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

Cancer that begins in the ovaries or the fallopian tubes is called ovarian cancer. The risk of ovarian cancer rises with age. More than 50 % of deaths due to ovarian caner occur in women between 55 and 74, and about a 25 % in women between 35 and 54. Ovarian cancer has been termed the 'Silent Killer' even in medical textbooks because there are no symptoms until a considerably advanced stage of the disease. Recent studies, however, show that though there are no symptoms that are characteristic to ovarian cancer, the following warning signs manifest a few months before the cancer is detected:



Pelvic, abdominal, or back pain



Weight gain or weight loss



Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge (heavy menstrual flow or menopausal bleeding)



Discomfort during sex



Frequent or intense need to urinate; burning sensation or spasms while urinating



Feeling full even though you haven't eaten much



Vague gastro-intestinal problems, like gas, indigestion, loss of appetite, bloating, nausea and vomiting, bloody stool, prolonged constipation or diarrhoea



Unexplained increase in waistline



Shortness of breath



Fatigue



If you experience any of the above symptoms over two or three weeks and if it gets worse with time, you should get yourself tested for ovarian cancer. As these symptoms could be associated with any other disease or minor ailment, it is impossible to diagnose ovarian cancer on their merit alone. The doctor will conduct a pelvic exam, an abdominal or vaginal ultrasound, and a blood test to check for the presence of CA 125. None of these tests are conclusive in themselves. But, a positive count on two or more of the tests should be followed by a biopsy (laparotomy) or a laparoscopy to rule out or diagnose ovarian cancer.



A very small percentage of women facing these symptoms are diagnosed with the dreaded disease. And sometimes, women can reach the very last stages of cancer with no symptoms at all. The best you can do is to maintain a healthy lifestyle and undergo an annual examination to catch the cancer before it metastasizes.

5 Useful Ovarian Cancer Tests

Ovarian cancer is contracted by around 7,000 women in the UK each year. It generally affects older women and develops when the cells of the ovary start to grow in a rapid and out of control way. There are a number of symptoms associated with ovarian cancer including a bloated stomach, irregular periods and abdominal pain. If you notice any of these symptoms then you should go see your doctor right away. They will then be able to perform the necessary tests. In this article I will be discussing five of these tests.



1) PHYSICAL EXAM:- The first ovarian cancer test your doctor will recommend is a physical exam. This will be performed by either your doctor or a gynaecologist and will involve them placing one or two gloved fingers in to the vagina. They will then put their other hand on the lower abdomen to feel the position, shape and size of the ovaries. If this test reveals any abnormalities your doctor will then suggest further testing.



2) BLOOD TEST:- Certain types of ovarian cancer produce a protein called CA125. Therefore, a blood test that reveals higher than normal levels of this protein may be an indicator for this type of cancer. However, there are other conditions such pelvic inflammatory disease that can cause blood levels of CA125 to be elevated so whilst this test can indicate ovary cancer it is not a certainty.



3) ULTRASOUND SCAN:- This test involves using sound waves to build an image of your ovaries. This image can then be investigated to see if your ovaries look normal. It can also reveal whether any lumps found are fluid or solid. If any sold lumps are found they may be cancerous and will require further investigation.



4) LAPAROSCOPY:- This ovarian cancer test involves a small incision being made in the abdominal wall whilst you are under general anaesthetic. An instrument called a laparoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end) is then inserted in to this incision and this transmits an image of your ovaries on to a screen. Your doctor can then look at this image for any abnormalities which could potentially be cancerous. Most laparoscopes can also be used to take a tissue sample and these tissues can then be tested in a laboratory to see if they are cancerous.



5) ABDOMINAL FLUID ASPIRATION:- A swollen stomach is a potential sign of ovary cancer. If your stomach does become swollen then this fluid will need to be removed. To do this your doctor will give you a local anaesthetic, insert a long, thin needle in to your abdomen and drain the fluid in to a container. This fluid can then be examined in the laboratory for the presence of cancer cells.



I hope this article has given you a greater understanding of the possible tests for ovarian cancer. This type of cancer is much more treatable in the early stages so if you have any reason to believe you may be suffering from this disease go and ask your doctor about testing. They will then be able to recommend the most suitable test and determine whether you have contracted ovary cancer.



Whilst every intention has been made to make this article accurate and informative, it is intended for general information only. Ovarian cancer is a very serious, life threatening condition and you should discuss any concerns, treatments or lifestyle changes fully with your doctor.

Ovarian Cancer-PMS Symptoms - Treatment Options for Ovarian Cancer-PMS Symptoms

Many health conditions have very similar symptoms and therefore it is imperative that if you have any unusual symptoms going on that you get a thorough physical from your doctor to help determine exactly what is going on. Ovarian Cancer and PMS -premenstrual syndrome are two conditions that have some of the same symptoms. The similar symptoms of Ovarian Cancer and PMS will be reviewed. Treatment options for both will be discussed as well.



Ovarian Cancer Symptoms



It has been believed that symptoms of Ovarian Cancer did not appear until the tumor spreads. Very recently however, it has been discovered that there may be early signs. These symptoms can be bloating, abdominal pain and frequent urination or intense urge to urinate. You may experience problems with eating or you may feel full really quickly.
If these symptoms have not appeared before or if they become severe, every woman should see their doctors' for cancer screening.



Other symptoms of ovarian cancer could include a feeling of heaviness in the pelvic/abdominal area, lower abdominal pain, and/or vaginal bleeding. Other symptoms may include irregular periods, unexplained back pain that gets continually worse, and increased abdominal girth. Some gastro-intestinal problems such as gas, indigestion, decreased appetite and problems eating the usual amount of food may be symptomatic of ovarian cancer.



Nausea, vomiting, and feeling bloated may also indicate ovarian cancer. Excessive hair growth may also occur.



PMS Symptoms



There are two believed causes of premenstrual symptoms. The first is low serotonin levels (brain chemical that helps control mood, sleep, and your appetite. Associated symptoms include mood swings, irritability, aggressive behavior, and anger. Fatigue and sleep problems may also occur. Anxiety, depression and concentration problems are also associated symptoms. Food cravings and an increase in your appetite may also occur.



The second possible cause is related to the hormonal fluctuations and may be headaches including migraines. Sore breasts, bloating, and back ache might also be experienced by some women. There are over 100 associated indicators related to PMS.



Treatments



Ovarian cancer can be treated in a number of ways. Surgery is an option and may include removal of just the diseased ovary or both can be removed. If this is the case, you will no longer be able to get pregnant and early menopause may occur if you have had it already.



Radiation Treatment uses extremely high energy x-rays to do one of two things; shrink the cancer cells or to kill them. With radiation you may experience the side effects such as nausea, fatigue, and diarrhea. Report these to your doctor immediately because there are ways to help. Chemotherapy is given most often after surgery.



They may be administered intravenously or by mouth. Once the drugs are in the blood stream they spread throughout the body. This is a good treatment when the cancer has spread beyond the ovaries.



Side effects from chemotherapy may include nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, hair loss, and rashes on the hands and feet. Damage may occur to the kidneys or nerves. Tiredness due to low red blood cell counts, bleeding/bruising from minor cuts due to low platelet counts and mouth sores may occur. Once treatments are done most of these things go away. PMS treatments include prescribed medications; possibly anti-depressants which are used no matter the level of severity. These come with some very serious side effects and as a result many people are looking for natural treatments such as herbal supplements.



Herbal supplements of high quality should have been put through intense testing. The metabolism of the ingredients is tested at the molecular level and the interactions of the ingredients examined. They also should have been made to meet pharmaceutical grade standards. This guarantees that what the label says it contains, is really in the supplement. The safety, purity, and effectiveness of the supplement are also guaranteed. Before taking any supplement, check with your doctor because the herbs may have an effect on how prescriptions you may be taking for other conditions work.



Conclusion



Ovarian cancer PMS symptoms do have some commonalities such as a little lower abdominal pain, weight gain, irregular periods, and indigestion. These symptoms can indicate either Ovarian Cancer/PMS symptoms. It is very strongly recommended that if you suspect you have PMS or ovarian cancer, to get medical advice as soon as possible. Both can be treated but ovarian cancer may be more survivable if caught early rather than later: and that is usually the case.

Information About Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is actually more than one form of cancer but they are all cancers which start in that area of the female reproductive organs known as the ovaries.



Unfortunately, ovarian cancer often has no noticeable symptoms in its early stages, allowing it to grow and develop for sometime before its victim becomes aware of it. When this cancer does begin to show symptoms, the symptoms are usually such things as the person becoming very tired easily, having a bloated stomach, feeling nauseous a good part of the time and being inflicted with either diarrhea or constipation.



Although other problems can cause these same symptoms, it is important that a woman should immediately be checked out by a doctor to find out what the problem is. It may not be this cancer, but then again it may be and the sooner it is caught and dealt with, the better.



Women who have had breast cancer or who have family members who have had some form of cancer are more apt to have ovarian cancer than women who have not had breast cancer or who have no family members with a history of cancer.



It has also been noted that women who have had children, especially those that have had them young, are less apt to develop ovarian cancer than those who have not had children.



The majority of the women who develop this cancer are those in their early senior years, ages fifty-five and up.



Because of the nature of ovarian cancer not to show symptoms in its earliest stages, in the majority of cases the presence of ovarian cancer necessitates what is known as a total hysterectomy, that is the total removal of the ovaries. After this, the person is usually treated aggressively with chemotherapy, that is chemicals that kill cancer cells.



Very rarely radiation is also used after surgery for this cancer. This treatment is one that can be done very quickly if it is determined that it is needed.



Treatment for this cancer is often followed by medications given to help the person maintain her femininity.



Unfortunately, these medications often have their own side effects, so it is important that the person use them only as long as they are necessary and keep her doctor appraised of any changes or problems noticed.



After being treated for this cancer, the person is able to live a normal, active lifestyle. It is important to that she eat a healthy diet and get plenty of exercise.



Each year a large number of women are victims of this cancer but also, with aggressive treatment many women are also over comers of ovarian cancer.

Ovarian Cancer Survival Rate

Ovarian cancer is cancer of the ovaries, that part of a woman's body where a child grows. According to most medical statistics, over fifteen thousand women die each year from this cancer. Medical studies have also shown that 45% of the women who are diagnosed with ovarian cancer live five or more years after the initial diagnosis.



These are pretty grim statistics. Over half of the women diagnosed with ovarian cancer die in less than five years after the initial diagnosis. Many medical professionals feel that their studies seem to show that one very real reason for this is that cancer has little or no symptoms and so before it is discovered this cancer has developed and spread.



What can be done to increase these survival rates? One way is to have a gynecological examination performed regularly. Yes, this may well cause you to experience some pain, however not any where's near as much pain as the mental pain of sitting across from your doctor's desk and hearing that you are in the advanced stages of ovarian cancer and will most likely die within five years.



Ovarian cancer isn't just one type of cancer but rather an overall name given to several different forms of cancer which occur in the ovaries.



It is important to note that most medical studies seem to show that cancer is genetic, that is the tendency towards having ovarian cancer of any kind runs in families.



Medical professionals feel that their studies seem to show also that women who have a multiple number of children are less apt to contract some form of this cancer. This is also true of women who use oral contraceptive devices. These medical professionals have therefore theorized that their studies indicate that cancer is related in some way to ovulation, that is the discharge of a mature ovum from the ovary. They feel that various occurrences that surpress ovulation in some way actually serve to lessen the chances of the woman developing some form of this cancer.



It has also been shown that the majority of cases of this cancer happen to older women, many into their seventies.



The ovarian cancer survival rate can be increased by taking proper precautions. Listen to your doctor, have that pap smear as advised. Don't wait until something seems wrong to have yourself checked out, do it on a regular basis. Don't wait, it might be too late.

Ovarian Cancer Bracelets

Ovarian cancer is deadly and has a very high mortality rate. It is a disease, which affects the ovaries initially and then spreads to the pelvic area. Surgery and chemotherapy are the only treatments that work in the initial stages.



Bracelets are accessories worn on the wrist. They could be a fashion statement, but can also serve a bigger cause when worn to symbolize a cause and to show solidarity. There are a variety of causes, including deadly diseases such as AIDS and cystic fibrosis that are supported by people the world over.



Ovarian cancer awareness bracelets are made of various materials such as sterling silver pieces and Swarovski crystals. They are endorsed with a ribbon charm and closed with a sterling silver toggle. They come in different designs, colors and sizes. Some bracelets feature encouraging phrases such as 'Cure Ovarian Cancer' and 'Together we shall survive.' These lovely bracelets are marketed in lattice bags and tied with ribbon. The fight for ovarian cancer awareness is represented by the teal fiber optic beads. The crystals signify the fight for survival and the ordeal of the patient. It is with a lot of pride that the supporter wears the bracelet.



A percentage of the income from the sale of every ovarian cancer awareness bracelet is given to recognized charities to support their awareness and services provided to patients suffering from the dreaded disease. Wearing these bracelets raises awareness of the disease. The charities try to provide monetary assistance to the ovarian cancer patients by trying to meet their daily living and medical needs. Along with spreading awareness and raising required funds, these bracelets help people understand the implication of the dreaded disease. The awareness efforts are promoted and supported by various welfare groups and charities that are operative worldwide.

Early Warning Signs of Ovarian Cancer

What are the early warning signs of ovarian cancer? This is a very difficult question to answer, because while there are symptoms in the beginning stages of the disease, they tend to be so mild that both the woman herself and her doctors may not think the symptoms are indicative of ovarian cancer. This is particularly the case if the woman doesn't have ovarian cancer in her family's history. Yet, it's still helpful if women are at least aware of the most common signs of ovarian cancer. By knowing what the symptoms are, she may not discredit the possibility of ovarian cancer, especially if they get worse in a relatively short period of time. This article will help women obtain this knowledge by explaining in detail the two main warning signs: abdominal pain and urinary incontinence.



Abdominal Pain



The first sign of ovarian cancer that you should look out for is abdominal pain. This is due to the ovarian tumors attacking the abdomen, resulting in fluid build-up that puts pressure on the nerves. Yet, the pain may not feel much different than what a woman gets if she has a tummy ache or even bad gas. So, the key is going to be how long the abdominal pain lasts. Tummy aches and gas usually don't last too long, especially when the source of what is causing the problem gets taken care of. The abdominal pain will be chronic and worsen over time. In the latter stages of ovarian cancer, the pain will be accompanied with abdominal girth and digestive problems.



Urinary Incontinence



Urinary incontinence is also a very common symptom of ovarian cancer. This is when a woman has an abnormal urge to urinate more than normal. When she does go to the bathroom, she may or may not actually urinate. Sometimes a woman may even leak urine even if she has gone to the bathroom. Now, incontinence is a much more significant than abdominal pain, so it may prompt a woman to seek at least a check-up. However, even the gynecologist may not realise what the problem is. This is because urinary incontinence can be a symptom of other diseases, some of which aren't even serious. An example is a urinary tract infection, a condition that can easily be treated with antibiotics. Yet, if the urinary tract infection is really indicative of ovarian cancer, antibiotics will not get it to go away.



So, what does a woman do if she exhibits any of the early warning signs of ovarian cancer? She needs to go to the doctor and let them know she has concerns over whether or not her symptoms are a result of the condition. The doctor will evaluate whether or not she is at high risk for the disease. If she is the doctor will probably suggest ovarian cancer screening. If she isn't the doctor will probably wait to see if the symptoms progress before suggesting any official screening. The reason this is the case is because women who are not at high risk for ovarian cancer tend to get misdiagnosed when they get ovarian cancer screening. Doctors want to avoid the possibility of a woman getting unnecessary ovarian cancer treatment.

Ovarian Cancer Stages - Top 4

We hear more and more that our friends or family have been diagnosed with cancer. Cancer is a terrible thing to happen to anybody. Ovarian cancer is one particular disease that seems to be on the rise so it is important for the female population to keep their yearly checkups on schedule. There are four stages that ovarian cancer goes through; let's review those ovarian cancer stages.



Stage 1 - The first stage is determining where the cancer is located and it can be in either one or both ovaries at this time. During this stage, the cancer is only located in the ovaries and has not moved elsewhere in the body. As this stage progresses, the cancer can be found in both ovaries and may at this time have moved to the outside and elsewhere in the body.



Stage 2 - This stage verifies if the cancer is found in one or both of the ovaries as well as that the cancer could now be on the outside of the ovaries as well as possibly other organs that are contained within the pelvic area. During this stage, the cancer spreads into the Fallopian tubes and/or the uterus. At the end of this stage, the cancer has spread to the uterus, colon, rectum, bladder, and into the lymph nodes. It is even possible at this point that the cancer can be found in the abdomen area.



Stage 3 - At this point, the cancer is found in one or both of the ovaries and has spread to other parts of the pelvic area. The cancer that can be found in the abdomen area are approximately 2cm or less but in the ovary(ies), the size could be larger than 2cm. Statistics show that most women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer during stage 3.



Stage 4 - This is the most extreme level the cancer reaches and is when the cancer has spread to other areas of the body. Surgery is usually performed to remove the cancer before further treatments are prescribed. Every attempt is made during surgery to remove the cancer which can be successful, but if the surgery is not then the patient must undergo chemotherapy treatments.



These stages were developed by the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics or FIGO and are standard in assigning the ovarian cancer stages throughout the world.

Was Your Ovarian Cancer Misdiagnosed?

As many as 30,000 U.S. women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer this year. In 2006, between 15,000 and 16,000 women are likely to die from this silent killer. Ovarian cancer is the 5th leading cause of death among women, and it is responsible for about five percent of all cancer deaths. Chances are your doctor may have misdiagnosed you. That is often the case. A recent British study found 60 percent of all U.K. general practitioners had misdiagnosed their patients.



Three-quarters of British doctors surveyed incorrectly assumed that symptoms only occurred in the late stages of ovarian cancer. Based upon that information, it should be no surprise that Britain has one of the lowest survival rates for ovarian cancer in the Western World - of 6,800 cases diagnosed each year, more than 4,600 die.



A similar discovery was made by University of California researchers, who announced last year, "Four in 10 women with ovarian cancer have symptoms that they tell their doctors about at least four months -- and as long as one year -- before they are diagnosed." According to their study of nearly 2,000 women with ovarian cancer, the researchers discovered physicians:



o First ordered abdominal imaging or performed gastrointestinal procedures instead of the more appropriate pelvic imaging and/or CA-125 (a blood test that can detect ovarian cancer).



o Only 25 percent of patients, who reported ovarian cancer symptoms four or more months before diagnosis, were given pelvic imaging or had CA-125 blood tests.



Patients with early symptoms are frequently misdiagnosed. Abdominal imaging or diagnostic gastrointestinal studies are less likely to detect ovarian cancer. According to the American Cancer Society's website, "The most common symptom is back pain, followed by fatigue, bloating, constipation, abdominal pain and urinary urgency. These symptoms tend to occur very frequently and become more severe with time. Most women with ovarian cancer have at least two of these symptoms."



By the time a woman reaches the fourth stage of ovarian cancer, her first-line treatment is often Carboplatin, Paclitaxel and Cisplatin as the specific chemotherapy for ovarian cancer. In the first stage, cancer is contained inside one or both ovaries. By stage two, the cancer has spread into the fallopian tubes or other pelvic tissues, such as the bladder or rectum. When the cancer has spread outside the pelvis area into the abdominal cavity, especially when tumor growths are larger than two centimeters on the lining of the abdomen, then ovarian cancer has reached stage three. The fourth and final stage of ovarian cancer is reached when the cancer has spread into other body organs, such as the liver or lungs.



If detected early, survival rates can be as high as 90 percent. Detected in the advanced stage, the survival rate falls to between 30 and 40 percent. Various imaging tests such as computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, and ultrasound studies can confirm whether a pelvic mass is present. A laparoscopy can help a doctor look at the ovaries and other pelvic tissue to in order to plan out a surgical procedure, or to determine the stage of the ovarian cancer. A biopsy, or tissue sampling, would confirm if there is cancer in your pelvic region, and would help determine how advanced it is. An elevated CA-125 blood test typically suggests the cancer has progressed to the advanced stage.



About 50 percent of ovarian cancer patients are already at an advanced stage by the time a correct diagnosis is made. Only 10 to 14 percent of women with advanced cancer are likely to survive more than five years.



Evaluation of Therapies



While research shows drinking black (or green) tea or taking the herbal supplement gingko biloba may be useful, as a preventative measure, or to reduce risk, a woman has few choices when her cancer has moved to the advanced stage. In the first stage, a woman faces surgical removal of the tumor, and possibly one or both ovaries, to increase her chances of survival. Beyond that, her choice is chemotherapy.



One major problem with chemotherapy is the side effects. The more advanced the cancer, the weaker one may be, reducing the survival rate potential. Survival rates have not changed very much over the past fifteen years. Chemotherapy can increase survival time by as much as 50 percent. But, quality of life suffers. The side effects and increased toxicity, accompanying chemotherapy, reduce how one spends the prolonged survival time.



Some of Paclitaxel's minor side effects, as reported by Medline Plus, may include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, change in taste, thinned or brittle hair, pain in the joints of the arms or legs, changes in the color of nails, and/or tingling in the hands or toes. More serious side effects may include mouth blistering or fatigue. Some alarming side effects could include unusual bleeding or bruising, dizziness, shortness of breath, severe exhaustion, chest pain, or difficulty swallowing. The most common side effect of Paclitaxel is a decrease of blood cells.



Carboplatin has its own list of side effects. It can reduce platelet production, which can interfere with your blood's ability to clot. You may become anemic, feeling tired or breathless. Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and a general feeling of weakness are common with this chemotherapeutic agent.



The latest breed of drugs, such as Eli Lilly's Gemzar, are hardly getting praise. On March 10th, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said it was skeptical of the benefits Eli Lilly's Gemzar, which was being used with Carboplatin to treat ovarian cancer patients. The FDA felt the 2.8 months increased survival time, provided by the Gemzar/Carboplatin combination failed to offset the treatment's increased toxicity.



In January, the New England Journal of Medicine reported on a remarkable new delivery system of chemotherapy, called the "intra-abdominal, or intraperitoneal, chemotherapy. Those who received the "belly bath" as it is now being called by the media can survive 16 months longer than those receiving intravenous chemotherapy. The major drawback is that 60 percent of the women in the study were unable to complete all six cycles of this chemotherapy. Those who did survived longer, but only two in every five women were able to advance to the end phase of the therapy.



One novel approach, now in Phase III trials at more than 60 research centers across the United States, is OvaRex ® MAb, a murine monoclonal antibody, a type of biotech drug derived from mouse cells. It is being tested by highly regarded United Therapeutics, based in Silver Springs, Maryland. Their lead drug Remodulin, an injection which treats pulmonary arterial hypertension, is currently being marketed inside and outside the United States. More than $32 million has been spent researching, and on the development of, OvaRex and may have it available on the market by 2008.



OvaRex was developed in Canada by a company called ViRexx Medical Corp, and first tested in that country. According to Dr. Lorne Tyrrell, Chief Executive of ViRexx, "The whole study has been set up with the FDA. This is a study where the drug has been given fast track approval and orphan drug status." Dr. Tyrrell is also on leave (until OvaRex become commercially available) as a Professor of Medical Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Alberta, and Director of the National Centre of Excellence for Viral Hepatitis Research.



OvaRex was tested in Canada, prior to the current Phase III trials in the U.S. "There have been a number of patients that have received OvaRex," said Dr. Tyrrell, "We've had really no adverse effects from these patients." Dr. Tyrrell explained the procedure, "After being injected intravenously, OvaRex binds to an antigen circulating in the blood." An antibody's general purpose is to neutralize an antigen. After an OvaRex injection, the murine monoclonal antibody binds to the CA-125 antigen.



In a way the body is tricked. But, the body is tricked in order to help "save" itself from the harmful antigen. When the OvaRex antibody is bound to the CA-125 antigen, the new combination is identified as a harmful unit. Before then, the antigen wanders through the body, without alerting the body's defense systems, the dendritic cells, to attack and destroy the harmful antigen. Because the body is trained to identify and zero in on a foreign protein, in this case a mouse protein, it alerts the dendritic cells. Until then, the dendritic cells "tolerate" the cancerous cells. The tolerance is what permits the cancer to spread throughout the body.
OvaRex seeks to break that tolerance. The murine monoclonal antibody is designed to target and bind exclusively to free floating CA-125 antigen.



The dendritic cells refuse to tolerate the foreign protein. When the antibody binds with the free-floating antigen, the dendritic cells recognize the complex (antibody plus antigen) as being foreign and engulf the new unit. The dendritic cells break down the key proteins of this unit, presenting all parts on the cells surface. At the point, the body's killer T-Cells are alerted to fight the internal threat to the body. Once activated, the T-Cells will replicate and create more killer T-Cells. Any tumor cells expressing the CA-125 antigen is targeted for destruction. The army of T-Cells move to attack the ovarian cancer tumor.



The principle behind OvaRex is to re-program the immune system to harness the body's defenses to prevent the growth and spread of the ovarian cancer. Will it cure ovarian cancer? "In most cases, it will be a delay," explained Dr. Tyrrell. "However, I think that, and everyone hopes that, often in some of these tumors, you're making incremental progress through careful clinical trials and adding new therapy. Each thing we do that improves the outcome when you start to look at the long term benefits of these, we hope that one day we will be able to cure this disease. We think this is a step. This has the potential to be an important step at helping to stimulate immune response to achieve a better outcome. Hopefully, one day we can improve that to where it is a cure."



COPYRIGHT © 2007 by StockInterview, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Ovarian Cancer and Oral Contraceptives

Ovarian cancer is an especially deadly form of cancer because it often goes undetected until it spreads to a vital organ and disrupts the organ's functioning. Thus, it earned the name "silent killer." While an estimated 13,580 women have passed away in 2010 due to cervical cancer, this number is gradually decreasing. Doctors and researchers believe that the increasing use of oral contraceptives plays a role in ovarian cancer's decrease.



Ovarian cancer can begin with three different tumor types on and around the ovary. These small, almond-shaped organs can mutate and develop tumors in the epithelium, which is the thin layer of tissue that covers the ovaries. This accounts for 85-90% of ovarian cancer cases. Two rarer forms of tumors begin in the actual egg-producing cells, or germ cells, as well as the supportive and hormone-producing tissue, called stromal tumors.



From here, ovarian cancer can spread in two different ways. It can leach into nearby tissue, such as the pelvis, cervix, and lower digestive system. Additionally, pieces of the tumor can break off and spread through the circulatory and lymph systems. From here, the tumors can anchor themselves anywhere in the body and begin to grow again.



In a study conducted by the Harvard Medical School, researchers found that even using oral contraceptives for one year decreased a woman's risk of developing ovarian cancer by 10-12%. After five years of using oral birth control, the risk dropped by half. At first, doctors found that this reduction in cancer rates occurred no matter the hormone in the oral contraceptive. However, a more in-depth study found that a higher level of progestin decreased the cancer risk better than low-progestin pills.



While many women turn to oral contraceptives solely to prevent unwanted pregnancy, it also has the proven benefit of protecting you from ovarian cancer as well. Frustratingly, though, not all birth control pills are created equally. Some, such as YAZ, Yasmin, and Ocella, have been linked to devastating side effects such as stroke and heart attack.

Stage 3 Ovarian Cancer - A Happy-Ending Story

Ovarian cancer most often presents in stage III, comprising more than 50% of all cases. Briefly, a stage 3 diagnosis means that cancer is found in one or both ovaries and has spread to other parts of the abdomen. This is a serious challenge for anyone to endure, but although it may seem initially overwhelming, I am writing this article as a measure of hope for those who are going through this right now.



Ten years ago a woman I knew, let's call her "Lisa," was diagnosed with stage 3 ovarian cancer. She had no risk factors of the disease, was diligent about going for her annual gynecological exams and checkups, and she never missed her yearly mammogram. Unfortunately, she was not aware of the early warning signs she was experiencing including indigestion, bloating, pelvic discomfort and pain, and a change in her menstrual periods. Had she realized these were signs and symptoms she should be on the lookout for, she would have seen a doctor earlier and it might have been the difference in stage 1 and stage 3. But she didn't know the symptoms to look for.



Once finally diagnosed, she underwent surgery with removal of a large tumor, and then 6 sessions of chemotherapy over a period of 15 weeks. During this time she listened to her doctor's prognosis (not great) and researched the disease, discovering the 5-year survival rate was somewhere around 20%. But she was a strong woman and she was determined to watch her 3 children grow up, finish college, have careers, and raise a family themselves. She was determined to beat this disease. She changed a few things in her life, exercising at least once a day, drinking more water, and eating healthier. Of course she had to go for checkups every few months for the first couple of years, and then every 6 months thereafter.



Just a few months ago, Lisa had the most amazing news. She went for her regular checkup at her oncologist's office and she was told that since she has been with no evidence of disease (known as NED) for 10 years she is now considered cured and she was discharged from the oncologist's care.



If you have been diagnosed with stage 3 ovarian cancer, don't even read the statistics because you are not a number. Especially in this day and time, it is so easy to find negative information on the Internet. I will tell you that I believe the reason for this is people go on the 'net with their problems and rarely go to talk about things that are going great in their life. This is why I wanted to share this with everyone. Take heart from Lisa's story and know that a cure is possible for anyone, regardless of what the numbers say.

Ovarian Cancer Symptoms

The symptoms of ovarian cancer can appear months before the cancer is found. Unless a woman is getting the tests that would reveal the cancer these symptoms many times wont be diagnosed. This alone is one of the problems with detecting ovarian cancer in its early stages. The symptoms of ovarian cancer are quite often dismissed due to the fact that they can be rather benign.



Stomach swelling and digestive problems for instance which are common symptoms of the presence of ovarian can be easily dismissed and ignored. Stomach problems are something everyone experiences at various times in their life. Ovarian cancer afflicts more than twenty-two- thousand women annually in the U.S. If caught in the early stages this cancer is treatable as goes for many other cancers.



If detected in its early stages, before it has spread from the ovaries a woman has a ninety percent chance of living for at least another five years. Unfortunately, less than twenty percent of ovarian cancer is detected in its early stage, Due to the fact that the symptoms of ovarian cancer don't involve the ovaries themselves the cancer many times can be overlooked as tests like stomach imaging can overlook the ovaries.



This is not to say that every time a woman gets a stomach ache or pelvic pain she should dash off to be tested for ovarian cancer. In cases where problems are persistent though researchers have concluded that ovarian cancer should be considered. If tests have ruled out other causes than tests for ovarian cancer should be performed. Ovarian cancer is a relatively rare cancer in women, it afflicts a small part of the general population and makes up a small percentage of the cancers afflicting women in general.



For the woman stricken with this form of cancer the statistics mean nothing though. So it appears from research findings that women have to take a greater part in the detection of this disease due to the nature of the symptoms and the elusive nature of this disease and with early detection so imperative in determining the survival rate of women afflicted with ovarian cancer.



If tests have ruled out other causes for the symptoms than tests for ovarian cancer should be performed earlier in the diagnosis process. A womans early response to the persistent symptoms related to ovarian cancer can be the key to her survival. New research has discovered that ultrasound and the CA125 test were many times not effective in detecting ovarian cancer in its early stages even in women already at high risk for developing the disease.



Women at high risk include women with a family history of the disease and women predisposed to it due to genetic mutations that can make ovarian cancer more likely. Of the two tests the blood test has shown to be more effective in finding ovarian cancer but it can sometimes give false positive results. Statistics are not good for the early detection of the cancer so other means must be developed it seems.



Experts agree that more research is needed in the area of detection of the disease as this seems to be so critical in determining the survival rate for ovarian cancer. The symptoms will always be the same though so for their part women must make themselves more aware of this cancer and its early detection. Tracking the symptoms can only be of help. Keeping an accurate record of your early symptoms and being persistent during the evaluation process can be the difference between surviving and not surviving ovarian cancer.

3 Types of Ovarian Cancer Explained

The ovaries are part of the female reproductive system. There are two ovaries (a left one and a right one) and when women get old enough to have children one of the ovaries releases an egg each month. These eggs then pass down the fallopian tube to the womb where they can be fertilised with sperm. If the eggs are not fertilised they exit the body during the woman's monthly period. Aside from releasing eggs, the ovaries are also responsible for producing oestrogen and progesterone.



Ovarian cancer develops when something goes wrong with the cell division process in the ovaries causing them to grow in a rapid and uncontrollable way. It is the fourth most common type of cancer in females with around 7,000 women contracting it in the UK each year. This condition is most prevalent in menopausal women and is rarely diagnosed in women under 40. There are three main types of ovarian cancer and I will be discussing each of them in greater detail below.



1) EPITHELIAL OVARIAN CANCER:- This type of cancer occurs when the cells that line the ovaries (the epithelium) start to grow in a rapid, out of control way. Between 70% and 80% of ovary cancers are this type and it is almost always diagnosed in women who have been through the menopause.



2) GERM CELL OVARIAN CANCER:- This type of cancer develops when the germ cells (the cells responsible for making eggs) start to grow rapidly and uncontrollably. Approximately 15% of ovary cancers are this type and unlike the other forms of this disease, germ cell ovarian cancer normally affects younger women.



3) STROMAL OVARIAN CANCER:- This type of cancer develops when the connective tissues of the ovaries become cancerous and start to grow in a rapid, uncontrollable way. Between 5% and 10% of ovary cancers are this type. This variation normally only affects one of the two ovaries.



Although there are three main kinds of ovarian cancer the risk factors, symptoms, tests, treatments and survival rates are similar for each. Women who contract this type of cancer have a five year survival rate of around 75% if it stays within the ovaries although this drops to about 20% if the cancer spreads to other areas of the body. It is not known exactly what causes this disease but age, obesity and family history are all thought to have an influence. The symptoms of ovary cancer are often very mild or non-existent but when they do surface they include bloating, constipation and stomach pain. If you are diagnosed with this condition surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are the three most common treatment options.



I hope this article has given you a brief overview of this condition. Whilst being diagnosed with cancer is never going to be a pleasant experience this type of cancer is very treatable if caught early. If you have any concerns regarding ovary cancer then go see your doctor and explain your concerns. They will be able to answer your questions and give you a professional, qualified opinion.



Whilst every intention has been made to make this article accurate and informative, it is intended for general information only. Ovarian cancer is a very serious, life threatening condition and you should discuss any concerns, treatments or lifestyle changes fully with your doctor.

5 Most Common Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer presents a real risk to all women. Around 20,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. Unfortunately many of the symptoms go unnoticed, so it is important to know the 5 most common symptoms of ovarian cancer.



What makes ovarian cancer frightening is that many of the symptoms do not manifest until the later stages. One of the most common symptom is frequent bloating. This often goes overlooked because of the normal bloat that comes with a woman's monthly cycle.



Other notable symptoms include pain in your belly region, particularly around the pelvis region. People also experience difficulty eating and tend to feel full quickly. In addition, many women experience urinary problems. These can include urgency and frequency.



Make sure you are watching your menstrual cycle closely. Changes in your cycle can also be a symptom of ovarian cancer. These can include both an increase in bleeding and the stoppage of bleeding all together.



If you have three or more of these symptoms, daily for two weeks, it is important to see your physician. The symptoms typically start suddenly and feel much different from your normal menstrual or stomach troubles. They also happen each day and do not go away with medicine and time.



Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause for deaths among women. Over 100,000 women die each year from the disease. Therefore, it is very important that you listen to your body. If something does not seem right, visit your physician. Early detection is the key.

The Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer for a long time was known as a silent killer, simply because by the time the cancer was diagnosed it was too late for effective treatments to be given. Only about 20% of ovarian cancers are found before the cancer has begun to spread past the ovaries. This is mainly because many of the symptoms associated with ovarian cancer are almost the same as those associated with a lot of other common ailments.



The cancer begins in one or both of the ovaries which are located on the sides of the uterus. Each side of the uterus has one small, almond-sized ovary which is responsible for the production of the eggs and releasing them into the fallopian tubes. The ovaries are also responsible for producing estrogen and progesterone, which are two female hormones which tend to increase before and during ovulation. This increase in hormones may actually be what causes the tumors to form.



There are two types of tumors: cancerous, and non-cancerous.



The cancerous cells begin on the inside of the ovaries and spreading to the outside, and eventually if not treated will make their way towards the organs located in the pelvic area. They can also spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream, or lymph nodes.



The non-cancerous cells do not spread, and are normally not considered a health threat, but they can contribute to the production of estrogen, which can cause cancerous cells to form.



It is critical that ovarian cancer is detected in its early stages in order to be able to better heal from the disease. But because the symptoms are similar to symptoms of other ailments it is often hard to distinguish between them. However, the symptoms associated with common ailments usually tend to go away within a day or two, but when the symptoms are associated with ovarian cancer they do not go away, but instead they gradually become worse as the cancer spreads.



Some of the symptoms are digestive disorders such as indigestion, gas, nausea, and constipation; bladder disorders where one urgently, or frequently needs to urinate; and trouble eating, as well as abdominal bloating or swelling. Pelvic pain, inconsistent menstrual cycles, pain during intercourse, lower back pain, and chronic fatigue or lack of energy are also symptoms of ovarian cancer.



If these symptoms occur for more than a week they should be checked out by a medical professional.



Changing to a raw food diet at the first signs of any symptoms may help to get rid of the symptoms, and even reverse the cancer if it has begun to form.

Ovarian Cancer Symptoms You Should Be Aware Of

Ovarian cancer is a type of gynecologic cancer that originates in the cells of the ovaries. It is the fifth most common cancer in women. As a matter of fact, it causes more deaths than any other type of gynecologic cancer. Ovarian cancer is often goes undetected in its early stages and it is usually found when the cancer cells have already spread into the pelvis and abdomen.



There are several factors that increase a person's risk of developing this disease. Women who give birth earlier in life are less likely to get this cancer. Additionally, the more children they have, the lower the risk will be. Women who have inherited BRCA1 or BRCA 2 gene mutation are at greater risk than those who have not. Women with personal or family history of ovarian and breast cancer should be more careful about their health since they are at greater risk of developing the disease. Age is another major risk factor; most deaths caused by this disease occur in women age 55 and older.



As with other types of cancer, ovarian cancer is indeed a very scary disease. However, it does not mean that it can't be cured. If the tumor is detected early, there is a 90 percent chance it will be cured. If the cancer is detected late and has already spread to other parts of the body, the chance of survival is lower and it can even lead to death. Hence, you need to know what the early symptoms of ovarian cancer are.



When the tumor is in its early states, it tends to show warning signs which are often mistaken for symptoms of other diseases such as digestive and bladder problems. These include abdominal pain, bloating, difficulty eating, and feeling full quickly. Additionally, sufferers may also experience other symptoms such as abnormal menstrual cycles, heavy feeling in pelvic area, swollen abdomen, back pain, digestive problems (such as lack of appetite, indigestion, constipation, nausea and vomiting, weight gain or loss), excessive hair growth, as well as increased urinary frequency.



These symptoms are likely to be persistent and they tend to worsen over time. If you have experienced any of these symptoms for more than a week, you need to seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor will be able to tell if they are indeed symptoms of ovarian cancer or if they indicate other diseases. If you do have ovarian cancer, your doctor should be able to determine the suitable treatment options based on the diagnosis.

Ovarian Cancer Symptoms

Ovarian cancer is known to be a silent killer. It takes the lives of close to 15,000 women across the United States each year and is usually difficult to detect. It is the leading cause of death among gynaecological cancers and the fifth among cancers of all kind. Much of the problem in providing adequate and fast treatment comes from the fact that it displays no tell-tale ovarian cancer symptoms to go by. Often enough, screening for cancer can fail at the first attempt and require multiple tests to provide a true positive result. Other than that, the early stages are very similar to other gynaecological problems that women display and are usually treated for the same. It can also be wrongly diagnosed as Irritable Bowel Syndrome and treated for that, further postponing correct therapy for cancer.



There are certain documented ovarian cancer symptoms, which when occurring together for long periods of time can be a cause for alarm. The loss of appetite, unexplained weight gain or loss, swelling in the abdomen and general pain in the stomach region are the first indicators of a disorder. After which, any kind of persistent bowel related problems, such as frequent urination, diarrhoea, excessive gas and constipation are further symptoms. Along with these, pain during sexual intercourse and irregular vaginal bleeding other than the time of menstruation is the extreme symptoms that definitely call for an immediate screening for ovarian cancer. Under such circumstances, going in for a simple pelvic examination is the first step one should take for confirming that the symptoms are indeed likely to be indicative of another disorder. After which, a CA 125 blood test and a Transvaginal Ultrasonography are required.



Further positive signs and ovarian cancer symptoms can be clarified with the help of these two diagnostic tools. They are quite helpful in diagnosing the disease. The CA 125 blood test measures blood levels over a period of days, keeping in mind the regular fluctuations of the levels and can be relied upon to give a true result after a given number of screenings. As the cancer advances in its stage, the results become far more accurate and can be received in one go, however this is detrimental to the health of the patient. One is suggested to use supplementary procedures and seek second opinions in case of persisting health problems. After the age of 40 years, it is advisable to keep such starting symptoms under very close scrutiny and consult a gynaecologist regularly.



Ovarian cancer symptoms are also at times confused for ovarian cysts, non-cancerous growths and vice versa. In these circumstances, all women must seek knowledge on ovarian cancer and apply it for better chances of catching the disease while it is still in its early stages of development. At this point, it can be removed without issue with surgery and further growth can be prevented. After it has reached the later stages of growth, remission becomes difficult to achieve and the life expectancy starts to plummet.

Ovarian Cancer - The Importance of Early Detection

It is important for women to educate themselves about ovarian cancer and the risk factors for this disease. In the past, the belief was that this condition would strike without symptoms. But now the medical community is aware of the early warning signs. Women can protect themselves and dramatically increase their chances of surviving this disease by paying attention to their bodies and by knowing the symptoms.



This form of cancer is more prevalent than once thought. Recent estimates suggest that one out of every 55 American women will develop the disease. The reason that it takes the lives of so many women is they do not detect the symptoms during the early stages. Often, they find out that they have it when the chances for survival are slim.



During the early stages of ovarian cancer, a woman's ovary contains cancerous cells that begin multiplying abnormally. At this time, there are some warning signs. However, these symptoms are often dismissed as being normal feminine conditions such as menstrual cramps.



The early symptoms include pain in the pelvic region, rapid weight gain or loss, and pain during sexual intercourse. Other warning signs are a lack of energy, nausea, unusually heavy bleeding during the menstrual cycle, or extremely long periods.



A woman may experience one or more of these indicators. Anyone who experiences these symptoms for an extended amount of time should see a physician in order to find out if the discomforts are caused by the early stages of cancer. This is especially important if the symptoms last for more than one week.



A physician will do a biopsy along with a pelvic examination on a woman who may be experiencing the early symptoms of ovarian cancer. This will help determine if there are any abnormalities or cancerous or pre-cancerous cells. It will also reveal if treatment is necessary and which type of medication would be best in order to prevent the problem from advancing.



Detecting the disease during the early stages dramatically increases the chances that a patient can be cured. Unfortunately, many women do not become aware of their condition until it has progressed to the stages. By this time, it may have spread to other areas of the body, which lowers the chances for survival.

Ovarian Cancer Symptoms - Silent Symptoms You Must Know

Ovarian cancer symptoms are very unlikely to be detected unless you have knowledge of the early signs and symptoms. The cancer holds its reputation as "The Silent Killer" because of the lack of obvious symptoms in its early stage when its still curable. In three out of four patients, the cancer has already spread from the lower abdomen to other organs before it was discovered in its later stages. And though, 95% of women do experience early signs prior to diagnosis, but sadly the majority of these women do not recognize it as symptoms of ovarian cancer. Therefore, it is crucially important to understand the hidden signs that may pass by swiftly in which it becomes too late to cure. Read thoroughly to learn some of the early signs and symptoms.



Signs & Symptoms



The following can also be from varies other health issues but be cautious if you experience one or more of the symptoms below for one to three weeks and contact your doctor immediately for a pelvic examination test, and a recto-vaginal component, which will show the best prediction of a timely diagnosis.



Symptoms include lower abdominal pressure or discomfort, increased frequent gas, lack of appetite, unusual weight change, abnormality in your menstrual cycles, sense of heaviness in the pelvic, increased frequency and urgency to urinate and/or burning or spasms while urinating, abdomen swelling, feeling full, constant bloating, indigestion, changes in bowel movements, unusual tiredness or fatigue, nausea and vomiting, vaginal bleeding or discharge especially when your not in your menstrual period, lower back pain that worsens over time, difficulty breathing, onset of acne, pain during or after intercourse, sharp pain in or around the ovaries or the pelvic area, and fever.



The link between ovarian cysts and ovarian cancer



Although it is not a fact, studies did find that those who have constant onsets of ovarian cysts or had polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) showed a much increased risk to developing ovarian cancer. Ovarian cysts effects a high majority of women worldwide. Statistics has shown that almost 80% of all women will develop an ovarian cyst at some point in their life, but not all women will experience symptoms. It is vital to learn how to treat cysts or PCOS and reduce your risks of developing cancer.



Treating ovarian cysts and decreasing your cancer risks



You can decrease your cancer risks simply by treating your ovarian cysts or PCOS before they start to get dangerous. Taken birth control or hormonal pills will not take away cysts or PCOS because prescription medication may only cover some symptoms but do not actually prevent the cysts from reoccurring. However, changing to the right diet, exercise, and alternating to natural treatments such as herbal remedies, were found to dramatically shrink and even prevent cysts and PCOS from reoccurring and lowering risks to developing cancer. It is surely something your doctor never mentions to you, but many women actually found great success using natural treatment options that eliminated their cysts within a very short period of only two month.

Ovarian Cancer Survival Rates - Useful Facts

What are the realities behind the ovarian cancer survival rate? Probably the most integral aspect is coming up with a diagnosis in the early stages, particularly if cancerous problems occur in your family history. Even if it does not, it is important for women to minimize the risk of it by nursing your baby, delivering your first little one between the ages of 20 and 35, using birth control pills, or undergoing a hysterectomy.



If you were clinically determined to have cancer of the ovaries, you no doubt know extremely well that internet websites generally present the ovarian cancer survival chances in a very undesirable light. All the same, exactly what a large amount of the websites via the web do not show is that women of all ages have a significantly increased ovarian cancer survival rate if they're diagnosed sooner rather than later. Just one fourth of all women are actually identified as having ovarian cancer in the early stages. The rate of the survival with regard to those specific females will be an astounding 90%. The majority of sites may not present these marvelous probabilities though, mainly because 75% of women will not have the blessing of being diagnosed in the early stages.



If the woman is among the 75 percent that do not get a diagnosis promptly when it comes to cancer, how does the woman raise her odds when she's clinically diagnosed? Just how can the woman's cancer prognosis be improved upon? Whenever ladies hold off until they see ovarian cancer warning signs, it could actually be far too late to get categorized within the one quarter of women. Having said that, there are many times when ladies notice signs and symptoms, for example puffiness around the abdominal area, which usually encourages them to see a medical doctor. Frequently, signs or symptoms are mistaken for something considerably less dangerous, but when a woman actually possesses the smallest idea that she may have cancerous ovaries, she will need to visit a medical doctor without delay.



When a woman has cancer of the ovaries in her own family's background, she should go get evaluated for cancerous cells or ovarian cysts without delay. Sometimes, however, screenings will not be 100 percent reliable, hence an incorrect diagnosis could sometimes happen. But if somebody is actually diagnosed competently, it could very definitely end up being the tool that spares her life.



An issue defining the actual ovarian cancer survival rate is certainly the exact phase the woman is currently in. You'll discover various cancer stages any time the ovaries are concerned, and the further along the stage of cancer, the worse the rate of survival. That's why it's very necessary to spot it quickly, mainly because the earlier it is diagnosed and treatment is started, the greater the survival rate. As an illustration, the stage three rate of survival will be a whole lot different in comparison with the stage one rate of survival, so immediately after a woman is clinically diagnosed, that female ought to obtain therapy.



One more ingredient that determines the actual chance of survival is age. The more aged a woman might be, the lower the chance that she might be equipped to drive back cancer as well as a younger woman could. This is definitely an additional rationale why ladies should be evaluated and treated early if they're at an increased risk or have already been diagnosed.



For those who have previously been clinically determined to have ovarian cancer, or if you think that you might possibly be afflicted with it, the most crucial detail to be aware of is that it is not necessarily over. You'll find so many strategies that can help you pull through, and the ovarian cancer survival rates are much greater the quicker you start treatment.

Ovarian Cancer - Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

Cancer of the ovaries is known as ovarian cancer. A personal or family history of cancer, age over 55, older women with no history of pregnancy, and a history of prolonged estrogen treatment, are risk factors for ovarian cancer. Common symptoms include a swollen or bloated abdomen; pressure or pain in the abdomen, pelvis, back or legs; nausea, indigestion, gas, constipation or diarrhea; and feeling very tired all the time. Surgery and chemotherapy, and rarely radiation therapy, are the standard line of treatment for this condition.



The Ayurvedic treatment of ovarian cancer is aimed at treating the cancer, preventing its spread and prolonging survival. Medicines like Triphala-Guggulu, Kanchnar-Guggulu, Punarnavadi-Guggulu, Mahamanjishthadi-Qadha, Chandraprabha-Vati, Ashokarishta, Dashmoolarishta, Kuber-Vati, Ashoka (Saraca indica), Deodar (Cedrus deodara), Varun (Crataeva nurvala) and Latakaranj (Caesalpinia crista) are used in this condition.



Medicines which act on the 'Rakta' dhatu (tissue) are useful in this condition. These medicines include Patol (Tricosanthe dioica), Kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa), Saariva (Hemidesmus indicus), Patha ( Cissampelos pareira) , and Musta (Cyperus rotundus). Medicines like Kanchnaar-Guggulu and Mahamanjishthadi-Qadha are used in high doses to prevent the spread of the disease locally or to other parts of the body.



Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Suvarna-Sutshekhar-Ras, Suvarna-Parpati, Suvarna-Raj-Vangeshwar-Ras, Suvarna-Malini-Vasant, Trivanga-Bhasma, Suvarna-Bhasma and Heerak-Bhasma are used to improve the immune status of the body. To prevent or reduce side effects from conventional therapy, medicines like Laxmi-Vilas-Ras, Shrung-Bhasma, Ashwagandha, Shankh-Vati and Laghu-Sutshekhar-Ras are used.



Thus, Ayurvedic medicines can be used as additional therapy to modern, conventional treatment; to bring about a faster response, to prevent recurrence, and improve quality of life and overall survival of the patient. It is important to note that all such patients should be under the regular care and supervision of an Oncology team.

Ovarian Cancer: Symptoms, Risk Factors and How to Detect It

Today I will talk about a killer to many women. This is one of the cancers that threaten women's life because in many cases it is asymptomatic



Let's talk in brief about the "ovaries". The ovaries are glands present on the sides of the uterus. The ovary has 2 functions:



1. To produce hormones (oestrogen and progesterone)



2. During child-bearing period, it releases an egg monthly



After menopause, the ovary ceases to release eggs but continues to produce hormones but at a lower rate. This cancer occurs when cells in the ovary start to multiply and grow rapidly.



In many women who have ovarian cancer, there are no symptoms. And if there are symptoms, they are non-specific.



Symptoms include:



- Abdominal discomfort or fullness
- Dyspepsia
- Pelvic pain
- Constipation
- Back pain



Because the symptoms are non-specific, usually patients present when spread has occurred. That's why it is a "silent killer."



There are risk factors for ovarian cancer, such as:



- Low parity
- Delayed childbearing
- High fat diet



Genetics can play an important role. A gene known as BRCA 1 gene is associated with breast - ovarian cancer syndrome.



Our goal is to detect it as early as possible and that will be by doing a routine yearly pelvic examination in the pre-menopausal and post-menopausal women. Besides a periodic ultrasonography coupled with CA-125 can be used to screen ovarian cancer



Once diagnosed, the treatment options will depend on its type. There are many types of ovarian cancer and each one has it's treatment.

Ovarian Cancer Teal Ribbon of Hope

The ovarian cancer teal ribbon of hope is some particular type of ribbon that is basically designed for purposes of giving support to those women who have undergone the ordeal of suffering from cancer of the ovaries. Not only can it be worn to give hope to the survivors of ovarian cancer but it is also a ribbon hope for the families of the survivors. It comes in different forms to fit the taste of the one wearing it. For instance there is a large variety of ovarian cancer teal ribbon of hope that comes in form of wrist watch and also bracelet depending on one's taste. There are also the teal ribbons found on necklaces that are either beaded or made of glass and have the ribbon embedded on them.



Whatever the design of the ribbon it matters less because the most important thing is that awareness about ovarian cancer is raised to the world and these women who have suffered the disease known to be terminal have a ray of hope in their lives and this is a big inspiration to them because it enables them feel thought of and allows them to live each day with a gratuitous heart. The ovarian cancer teal ribbon of hope advocates for awareness and this is made possible by the ways in which this ribbon is displayed. T shirts are the major way in which ovarian cancer teal ribbon of hope has been used to raise awareness.



Others are found as badges, others are displayed on mugs and cups, some are found as key holders, some are on caps and the most unique is that there are even tattoos for this teal ribbon. This thus shows how much people have taken cancer of the ovaries into account and are doing all ways possible to ensure that this becomes common knowledge to everyone and if there is any stigmatization, it becomes a form of teaching and a lesson to those that are estranged to the disease. People have very different reasons as to why they wear the ribbon since it is how the whole thing that revolves around ovarian cancer touched them. Others are activists of the disease and wear the ribbon for such reasons; others wear it for reasons based on cure as well as those who have reasons of advocacy and support.



The ovarian cancer teal ribbon of hope in the recent past has enabled the education on this disease which was the basic reason for its existence in the first place. This further aids in terms of funding and legislation in the national level. So many organizations have come up with similar ways of assisting and have also worked with hospitals in order to raise funds and also do more research on cancer of the ovaries. This is basically the main agenda of such organizations and the ovarian cancer teal ribbon of hope has been the best way to spread the word on it and helping to eradicate the ignorance on cancer of the ovaries and to give the affected hope for the future.

Ovarian Cancer Back Pain

Well, many women in America are diagnosed with pre-ovarian cancer. Pre-ovarian cancer back pain is a common symptom of the disease which is many-a-time treated as a normal back pain mistakenly in the initial stage of cancer. Yes, your doctor can miss it, so you need to be cautious if suffering from chronic and stubborn back pain problem.
Just look at some statistics now. According to a recent study, close to 30,000 women of US will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer in the year 2006. It is also stated that between 15,000 to 16,000 deaths due to ovarian cancer are likely to happen this year. It accounts for 5 % of all the types of cancer deaths.



What encourages this silent killer to go on mercilessly? What are the doctors doing? How is that, that by the time this disease is detected, it is too late! Why it could not be detected at the first stage?



There is dispute among the researchers. British doctors did not make the correct survey when they arrived at the conclusion that symptoms came to the fore at the late stages of the ovarian cancer. So, when they detected the cancer, it was too late.



But, contrary were the findings of the University of California researchers. They concluded that some definite symptoms could be detected four months before and some even before one year. Hence, better treatment was possible.



"The most common symptom is back pain, followed by fatigue, bloating, constipation, abdominal pain and urinary urgency. These symptoms tend to occur very frequently and become more severe with time. Most women with ovarian cancer have at least two of these symptoms."



-American Cancer Society



Most of the back pain treatments are frustrating. They provide temporary relief here and there. So, you get fed up with the treatment that does not work.



Can Ovarian Cancer be found early? Why ovarian cancer? Every disease tends to cause some symptoms- some specific and some vague. In case of ovarian cancer, it could be abdominal swelling, vaginal bleeding on a high scale, pressure in the pelvic region, leg pain, problems related to digestion--gas trouble, continuous bloating, chronic indigestion and recurring stomach pain and most importantly, the back pain! So, if you take disease by disease treatment, without knowing about the root cause- ovarian cancer will take control slowly, steadily but firmly. After some months, your doctor will find the situation out of control as it is a belated diagnosis!

How You Can Survive Stage 4 Ovarian Cancer

Your doctor has just told you that your ovarian cancer has moved onto stage 4, the most advanced and dangerous stage of them all. Your worst nightmare has just been realized and you are in a very distressed and desperate state. This is a very common feeling among stage 4 cancer sufferers. But remember this. People have survived stage 4 cancer and this article will outline how they achieved this against the odds.



Firstly, a couple of statistics to give you some comfort. More than 60% of all ovarian sufferers are already in stage 3 or 4 at the time of diagnosis. In other words, there are many people out there in your situation and it gives you a chance to share your experience. Another comforting statistic is only 0.1% of patients show metastases of the brain, which is frankly a horrible experience.



You may have heard people say that there is no cure for stage 4 cancers or that such cancers are inoperable. In other words, stage 4 cancer sufferers are in some way terminally ill. But that's not true. There are treatments for stage 4 ovarian cancer. For example, patients normally undergo a total hysterectomy and a process of tumour debulking which involves the removal of as much tumour as possible from the pelvic area. Following these 2 procedures, chemotherapy is used to kill off the remaining cancer. You can now agree that there are various treatments for this type and stage of cancer.



Finally, probably the most important part of surviving ovarian cancer is to have a positive, upbeat attitude to your situation. It's amazing the amount of people that get sick or get worse by simply adopting a negative attitude. Be optimistic and treat this experience as a fascinating learning experience in your journey of life.



As you can see, surviving this dangerous stage of cancer is indeed possible and you cannot and must not lose hope if you want to overcome this cancer. Always remember that having a positive attitude is vital in your battle to survive stage 4 ovarian cancer.

Natural Remedies For Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer begins to form in one or both of the small, almond-sized ovaries which are located on the sides of the uterus. The cancer forms on the cells on the inside of the ovaries and spreads to the outside, and eventually to other parts of the body. There are ovarian tumors which are not cancerous, and usually are not considered to be a health threat.



Ovarian cancer is treatable if caught at an early stage, but the sad part is that most of these cancers go unnoticed until it is too late. Only about 20% of these cancers are diagnosed before they have spread past the ovaries. Many of the symptoms of ovarian cancer are those similar to other common diseases, which is why these symptoms go undiagnosed.



Some of these symptoms are constipation and other digestive problems, bladder disorders, lower back pain, fatigue or lack of energy.



The best defense against ovarian cancer is to switch to a raw food diet, and avoid most cooked foods and all processed and junk foods if possible. You should also drink lots of fluids and engage in regular exercise. If the symptoms are present there are many home remedies which can be taken along with a raw diet, and may help to relieve and even reverse the symptoms.



Ginger has shown to be able to destroy cancerous cells in ovarian cancer. This is due to the antioxidants and other cancer fighting agents that ginger contains. To take advantage of this, simply start adding ginger to your daily diet in your salads, teas, stir-fries and baked dishes. However, the best way to consume ginger is in its raw state.



Wolf-berry berries also known as goji berries can also help to reduce the symptoms, simply by adding them into your diet. These berries are great by themselves, in trail mixes or in your morning smoothies.



Other essential foods to include in your regular diet are graviola, strawberries, raspberries, cranberries, blueberries, rosemary, sage and avocados. You can also make tea from the leaves of spearmint, bamboo leaves, Korean pepper, grape seeds and dandelion roots.



To make the most out of these foods you should avoid eating toxic foods that contain unnatural ingredients and high amounts of processed sugar as they contribute to the formation and growth of cancerous cells. Red meat has also been linked to cancer, and thus you should avoid or at least reduce your intake of that as well.