Pharmacy and Health Blog from myGenericPharmacy.com

In recent years, the number of children, teens, and young adults with colorectal cancer has increased. To determine whether the gut microbiota and diet have an effect on the development of colorectal cancer, researchers recently investigated various diets and bacteria. To determine whether there were any effects on the gut, the researchers paired three distinct bacterial strains with three different diets. They discovered that a certain strain of Escherichia coli in conjunction with a low-carb, low-fiber diet can cause an increase in colon polyps, which can result in the development of colorectal cancer.

Although low-carb diets, like the ketogenic diet, have become more popular recently, many experts question whether a more restrictive diet could have detrimental effects on one’s health. In a recent study, researchers from the University of Toronto in Canada investigated the potential effects of low-carb diets on bacteria associated with colorectal cancer. In their study, the researchers employed mice and examined various bacterial strains as well as low-carb, typical, and Westernized diets.

They concentrated on whether these diets have an effect on specific bacteria and how that could lead to the development of colorectal cancer. The findings of their study demonstrated that low-carb diets have a detrimental effect on a particular strain of Escherichia coli. The researchers discovered that it accelerated the growth of polyps. Certain polyps can progress to colorectal cancer.

How might certain bacteria lead to cancer?
One of the most common types of cancer diagnosed in the US is colorectal cancer, which affects the colon and rectum. One out of every 26 women and one out of every 24 men will develop this cancer. According to recent data, the number of colorectal cancer cases among adults aged 30 to 34 increased by 71% between 1999 and 2020, while the number among adults aged 35 to 39 increased by 58% during the same period. The 5-year survival rate for colorectal cancer is 64.4%, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source.

Although prevention of colorectal cancer cannot be guaranteed, there are steps people can take to reduce their risk (Trusted Source). Among these are quitting smoking, consuming less alcohol, eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and avoiding processed foods and red meat.

The new study sought to ascertain whether there was a relationship between particular diet types and particular types of bacteria, as researchers suspect that dietary choices may be linked to the development of colorectal cancer. Three bacteria were the focus of their investigation: Helicobacter hepaticus, E. coli, and Bacteroides fragilis.

They colonized the mice using E. Coli. According to the study’s authors, these microbes either directly damage intestinal epithelial cells’ DNA by producing genotoxins or indirectly by inducing inflammatory mediators that damage DNA. The mice used in the study were fed Western-style diets, which were heavy in fat and sugar, regular chow diets, and diets low in carbs and fiber.

E. coli and low-carb diets increase cancer risk
Following nine weeks of feeding the mice their particular diets, the researchers monitored the mice for the development of polyps and remeasured them at sixteen weeks. Only the combination of the low-carb diet and E was tested among the bacteria and diets. Coli may raise the risk of colorectal cancer, according to research. This is noteworthy because, as stated by the authors of the study, E. Coli is found in 60% of cases of colorectal cancer.

This combination increased the number of tumors and polyps in the mice, which can raise the risk of colorectal cancer. These mice also displayed other indicators that increase the risk of colorectal cancer, including DNA damage. The colon’s protective mucous layer against bacteria was weakened by the low-carb diet. In mice that have E. Colibactin was able to reach colon cells because of this. One genotix that harms DNA is colibactin, according to a reliable source.

Additionally, these mice had cell senescence, which can lead to the development of cancer. The mice on low-carb, low-fiber diets with E had reduced levels of gut health regulation, the researchers discovered. coli, which fuels inflammation. In general, mice fed a low-carb diet paired with E. Coli’s gut microbiome was so disturbed and damaged that scientists discovered it to be a setting that encourages colorectal cancer.

Despite these alarming findings, the researchers discovered that feeding these mice fiber decreased the development of tumors and assisted in regulating inflammation. By figuring out whether particular fiber types are more protective and researching their effects on people, the researchers hope to carry on this line of inquiry.

What dietary changes may help lower cancer risk?
According to the article’s highlighted mouse study, there may be a substantial connection between low-carb diets and colibactin-producing E. She informed us about colorectal cancer and E. Coli. A low-carb diet combined with an E. strain was found to be beneficial by the researchers. Mice with colibactin-producing E. Coli developed colorectal cancer. Cusick described how the low-carb, low-fiber diet and E. coli create an environment in the gut. Coli resulted in a thinner mucous barrier, more polyps, which are cancer precursors, and increased gut inflammation.

Although she described the results as fascinating and captivating, she pointed out that more study is required before they can be used on people. Cusick listed a few forms of fiber that might support the colon’s mucus barrier because the study emphasized how important it is.

According to the article’s highlighted mouse study, there may be a substantial connection between low-carb diets and colibactin-producing E. She informed us about colorectal cancer and E. Coli. A low-carb diet combined with an E. strain was found to be beneficial by the researchers. Mice with colibactin-producing E. Coli developed colorectal cancer.

Cusick described how the low-carb, low-fiber diet and E. coli create an environment in the gut. Coli resulted in a thinner mucous barrier, more polyps, which are cancer precursors, and increased gut inflammation. Although she described the results as fascinating and captivating, she pointed out that more study is required before they can be used on people. Cusick listed a few forms of fiber that might support the colon’s mucus barrier because the study emphasized how important it is.

Vora was also not involved in the study. “I believe this can be considered hypothesis-generating,” Vora said of the research. The incidence of colorectal cancer may be explained by a real connection. Although Vora agreed that more research is needed on this subject, he also noted that the gut biome is a popular area of study due to its connection to colon cancer and that many new research topics will emerge in this area.

Individuals who suffer from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are more likely to develop colorectal cancer. Every one to three years, people with IBD frequently undergo colonoscopies to screen for colorectal cancer. Previous studies have demonstrated that identifying precancerous cells in individuals with IBD can be difficult. A new test created by researchers at London’s Institute of Cancer Research claims to be able to predict bowel cancer risk in individuals with IBD with 90% accuracy. According to earlier studies, individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, are more likely to develop colorectal cancer than those without IBD.

Due to the chronic inflammation associated with IBD, which can lead to the growth of abnormal cells called dysplasia and the development of precancerous polyps in the intestinal tract, people with IBD are more likely to develop colorectal cancer, also known as bowel cancer. Currently, a colonoscopy is performed every one to three years to screen for colorectal cancer in individuals with IBD. Nevertheless, prior research indicates that it can be challenging to identify precancerous cells in IBD patients. Researchers at London’s Institute of Cancer Research have now created a new test that they claim can more than 90% accurately predict bowel cancer risk in individuals with IBD.

The study’s senior author, Trevor Graham, PhD, a professor of genomics and evolution and director of the Centre for Evolution and Cancer at The Institute of Cancer Research in London, stated that while individuals with IBD are more likely to develop bowel cancer, there is currently no reliable method to predict that risk. Graham told Medical News Today that the only effective treatment for people who are believed to be in imminent danger of developing cancer is surgery to remove part or all of the large bowel. This procedure may save a life. However, people are undergoing needless surgery that can change their lives because we are currently unable to determine whether a patient actually needs the procedure. However, he added, those whose risk of bowel cancer is deemed low and for whom we do not perform surgery still experience anxiety due to the uncertainty surrounding their cancer risk.

Increased risk of cancer with cellular DNA changes
Researchers discovered that individuals with IBD who had precancerous cells that either gained or lost multiple copies of DNA were more likely to develop bowel cancer. The researchers then used the precise pattern of the altered DNA in the precancerous cells to create an algorithm that would predict the risk of colorectal cancer in the future. According to Graham, individuals with IBD in the UK undergo routine colonoscopies, which involve a camera being inserted up their butt to check for early indications of cancer. A biopsy is a tiny sample of tissue taken if something odd is observed. The test we run on the biopsy is a genetic test. According to him, we have developed a test to predict an individual’s risk based on the genetic signals in their biopsy after comparing the genetic signals of those who did and did not develop cancer.

Test predicts colorectal cancer risk with over 90% accuracy
Graham and his colleagues discovered that their novel test could more than 90% accurately predict which IBD study participants who developed precancerous cells would later develop colorectal cancer within five years. Graham stated, “We hope that by accurately identifying those at risk of cancer, we will be able to provide appropriate treatment.”. Surgery can be used to remove the colon and reduce the risk of cancer in people who are at a high risk of getting the disease. We can spare people who are not at high-risk needless anxiety and care. In clinical trials that we intend to conduct in the future, we must demonstrate that our predictions are accurate for patients to benefit from this, he said.

Although bowel cancer is more likely to strike people with inflammatory bowel disease, most IBD patients do not go on to get the disease. By predicting who is actually at risk, our new test enables all patients to receive the best possible care. To demonstrate that our predictions are accurate in practical situations, we will next conduct clinical trials. In the upcoming years, we hope to be able to administer the test within the NHS.

A less invasive predictive test
Regarding this study, a board-certified gastroenterologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California, commended it as fantastic, outstanding, and wonderful. The truth is that we frequently perform colonoscopies and biopsies on our IBD patients to check for dysplasia or cells or tissue that may develop into cancer. After that, we must have these conversations with them. Bedford clarified, “What do we do if they do have these low-grade dysplastic cells? Do we remove your colon or do we do more frequent surveillance?

It sounds like the speaker is expressing enthusiasm about a new test for predicting cancer risk in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). A test with 90% accuracy could significantly improve clinical decision-making by identifying those at risk for cancer and allowing doctors to target therapy more effectively. This could reduce the need for invasive procedures, which is always a win for patient comfort and safety. Additionally, if the test could be adapted into a blood or stool test, it would make it even more convenient for patients, potentially improving adherence to monitoring and early intervention.
It’s exciting when advancements like this can make a real difference in patient care! Would you like more information on current developments in diagnostic tests for IBD or related cancer risks?

Determining who is at higher risk
It seems like Dr. Nilesh Vora is also highlighting the potential of this study, emphasizing how valuable it would be for gastroenterologists to have a more accurate way of identifying which patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at higher risk for colon cancer. This would help doctors make more informed decisions on how to manage these patients and which individuals might benefit from closer monitoring or more aggressive treatments.

Dr. Vora’s perspective points to the benefit of targeted care by identifying at-risk patients, healthcare providers can potentially avoid unnecessary procedures for those not at risk, while ensuring higher-risk patients are managed more carefully. This kind of approach could streamline care and improve outcomes for patients with IBD, who already face challenges related to their condition.

It’s fascinating to see how medical fields are working together to improve outcomes for patients, and studies like this really highlight how advances in one area of medicine (in this case, diagnostic tools for cancer risk) can have a ripple effect on multiple specialties, improving patient care overall. Does this kind of collaboration between specialists and new diagnostic tests interest you?

That’s a crucial next step! Getting FDA approval for this test would be a significant milestone. If it’s approved, it could become a standard tool in clinical practice, helping doctors more accurately determine which IBD patients need frequent colonoscopies and which could safely extend the interval between screenings. Reducing the number of unnecessary colonoscopies would not only ease the burden on patients but also reduce healthcare costs and free up resources for those who truly need more frequent monitoring.

The potential for a more personalized approach to care where screenings are tailored to an individual’s actual risk—could be a game changer in managing IBD patients. The idea of offering more tailored and less invasive options for ongoing care could improve patient experience, both physically and psychologically.

If the test proves to be both accurate and accessible, it could help revolutionize the way doctors approach cancer prevention and monitoring for IBD patients. What do you think are some of the biggest hurdles in getting something like this approved by the FDA?

Infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is still a major public health concern. The best pre-exposure prophylactic options and other HIV prevention strategies are of interest to experts. According to one study, giving at-risk people an injection of lenacapavir every six months could significantly lower their risk of contracting HIV. The immune system is impacted by the human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV. To stop HIV from developing into acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), people with the virus can take medication.

But there is currently no treatment for HIV. Prevention measures are therefore crucial to HIV-related research. To prevent HIV, pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP, entails taking medication. Lenacapavir, an antiretroviral medication commonly used to treat HIV infections, was assessed as a PrEP strategy in a recent study that was published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Lenacapavir injections were more than 96% successful in preventing HIV infection. Additionally, researchers discovered that this option was more effective than the daily dose of emtricitabinetenofovir disoproxil fumarate (Truvada), which is the PrEP option. Lenacapavir use has the potential to significantly increase PrEP options for at-risk groups.

Lenacapavir for HIV prevention: Does it work?
This study was a multicenter, active-controlled, phase 3 double-blind randomized trial. The effectiveness of lenacapavir subcutaneous injections in preventing HIV infection was being investigated by the researchers. The study’s sample was broad and included a variety of groups that are frequently affected by HIV infection. Participants who have not frequently participated in HIV clinical trials were specifically targeted by the researchers. Participants were people who had receptive anal intercourse without condoms with partners who were assigned male at birth. Participants who identified as transgender and gender nonbinary were included in the study, along with cisgender men.

All possible participants were tested for HIV even though their status was initially unknown. HIV-negative individuals were included in PrEP treatment. Researchers randomly divided the 3,265 trial participants into two groups. One group was given emtricitabine-tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (F/TDF), marketed under the brand name Truvada, orally every day, along with a placebo injection every six months.

The other group was given a daily oral placebo and an injection of lenacapavir every six months. Two initial oral loading doses of lenacapavir were also given to the lenacapavir group. Regular HIV infection testing was performed on the participants. In addition to this comparison of medications, researchers examined the background incidence of HIV infection by examining broader data from the population that was first screened.

According to the study, lenacapavir injections were the best way to prevent HIV. Compared to nine participants in the F/TDF group, only two participants in the group of more than 2,100 receiving lenacapavir developed HIV. Lenacapavir’s results were also significantly better than the background incidence estimate. In general, lenacapavir adherence was significantly higher than F/TDF adherence. Researchers point out that there was proof that individuals in the F/TDF group who contracted HIV either stopped taking F/TDF more than a week and a half prior to being diagnosed with HIV, or had poor or no adherence.

Among the 2,179 trial participants who received twice-yearly injections of lenacapavir, there were only two incident cases of HIV infection. This translates to a 96 percent risk reduction in comparison to the estimated background HIV incidence rate among the study population, meaning that 99.9 percent of trial participants receiving lenacapavir for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) did not contract HIV. Furthermore, lenacapavir taken twice a year was 89% more effective than Truvada taken once daily.

Are there any concerns about the study findings?
There are certain limiting factors to take into account in this research. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) halted lenacapavir injections for approximately five months during the trial. As a result, during this period, some participants were unable to receive their initially prescribed regimen. Initially, participants who were scheduled for injections during this period were given either emtricitabinetenofovir alafenamide fumarate (F/TAF) or F/TDF instead.

The FDA lifted the injection hold after a little over a month, allowing participants in the lenacapavir group to receive weekly oral lenacapavir. The results of the study might have been impacted by this. Second, the sample was impacted by the inclusion criteria that the researchers used. The results might have been impacted by the small number of ineligible participants who continued to go through randomization screening and randomization.

Furthermore, not all participants who qualified for randomization were randomized. It should also be noted that adherence to injections was higher than adherence to daily oral medication. Researchers only used a cross-sectional incidence cohort to estimate the background incidence of HIV infection. Regarding this data point, researchers did not conduct long-term follow-up. They also admit that their methodology might have resulted in an underestimation of the prevalence of HIV infection.

Overall, the study found no safety issues with the use of lenacapavir. Researchers do admit, though, that the two lenacapavir-using group members who got HIV most likely developed some sort of resistance as a result of using lenacapavir alone. Future studies may need to address this.

Two-yearly lenacapavir for PrEP is being studied in other populations and regions in non-pivotal PURPOSE trials. These investigations are in progress. Furthermore, open-label lenacapavir is being or has been offered to participants in the PURPOSE 1 and PURPOSE 2 trials, which are investigating twice-yearly lenacapavir for PrEP in cisgender women. We will also keep an eye on those who receive lenacapavir injections. Gilead Sciences, the company that makes lenacapavir, provided funding for the current study.

Twice-yearly lenacapavir could act like an HIV vaccine
This study offers a practical way to shield at-risk people from HIV infection. Because lenacapavir is currently only approved for use by specific individuals with multidrug-resistant HIV, researchers point out that more approval will be needed before it can be used more widely.

Its use might also be hampered by other factors. The main concern with long-acting injectable PrEP is access and affordability, according to Charles Flexner, MD, a professor of clinical pharmacology and infectious disease at John Hopkins School of Medicine and principal investigator of the Long-Acting and Extended-Release Antiretroviral Research Resource Program (LEAP). Although he was not involved in the current study, Gilead has funded his research.

According to recent estimates, it may take years for generic or affordable versions of these medications to become available in low- and middle-income countries, where the majority of new HIV infections worldwide are occurring, even though they are probably available in high-income countries, he said. But according to Flexner, lenacapavir, which is administered twice a year, is becoming as effective as a vaccine at preventing an infection for which there may never be a suitable vaccine.

Lenacapavir administered twice a year is a revolutionary option for HIV prevention among cisgender men and transgender communities, according to the findings of the PURPOSE 2 study. With a 96% decrease in HIV incidence when compared to the background rate, lenacapavir is not only efficient but also novel and covert, assisting in removing major obstacles for marginalized groups that frequently experience stigma and difficulties following daily oral regimens. This emphasizes how crucial it is to include lenacapavir in our HIV prevention plans, especially as the U.S. K. and the global community strives to meet the 2030 UNAIDS targets.

References:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/lenacapavir-injection-lowers-hiv-risk-by-96#Twice-yearly-lenacapavir-could-act-like-an-HIV-vaccine
https://mygenericpharmacy.com/index.php/therapy,10

Drinking alcohol is the third most modifiable lifestyle factor associated with an increased risk of cancer. Less than one drink of any kind of alcohol per day raises the risk of common cancers such as esophageal, head neck, and breast cancers, according to research. Drinking less alcohol reduces your risk of cancer.

Processed and red meat
Studies reveal that eating more than eighteen ounces of red meat per week can raise your risk of developing cancer. Limiting or completely avoiding processed meats such as deli meat and hot dogs is advised. Red meat is a good source of protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12 when consumed in moderation. A weekly maximum of 12–18 ounces of red meat, split into three or more portions, is the recommended intake. Additionally, charring or cooking meats at high temperatures can produce toxic chemicals that increase the risk of cancer.

Sugars and sweeteners
Eating too much sugar over time can result in obesity, which is a known risk factor for cancer, even though research hasn’t found a direct correlation between eating sugar and cancer risk. Furthermore, studies indicate that increased intake of added sugars may cause elevated levels of insulin and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), as well as insulin resistance. The risk of cancer may be raised by all of these factors.

Diet and nutrition
Make an effort to eat a diet high in whole grains, low-fat dairy products, lean meats, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Functional ingredients found in most foods include polyphenols, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. Superfoods, or functional foods, are foods that reduce oxidative and inflammatory damage. Oxidation is a normal process that damages cells and tissues and may be a factor in certain illnesses.

Research has shown over time how effective a plant-based diet can be in lowering the risk of developing certain cancers. No one food can prevent cancer, as research keeps showing. It’s a combination of general dietary decisions, physical activity, and other lifestyle elements. To get the most out of a diet that prevents cancer, try to eat a range of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Your general health improves as you increase the variety and color of your meals.

Strong evidence has been found in numerous studies that fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dietary fiber, specific micronutrients, some fatty acids, and physical activity can prevent certain types of cancer. On the other hand, certain fatty acids, alcohol, obesity, and food preparation techniques can raise the risk. Nutrition research will probably need to go beyond traditional epidemiological and metabolic studies to unravel the myriad of plausible mechanisms for how dietary factors affect cancer risk. The field of nutritional sciences needs to capitalize on recent developments in genetics and molecular biology to shift from being primarily “observational” to “cause and effect.”. Strategies for cancer prevention that include successful dietary interventions for target populations are based on such basic research.

A major factor in the etiology and prevention of cancer is diet. The fundamental claim that dietary factors affect cancer risk is not really up for debate, despite discrepancies in the studies that have looked into the connection between diet and cancer. However, there are still a lot of unanswered questions. These include precisely which dietary factors are most strongly associated with the prevention of cancer, the mechanisms by which food ingredients purport to work, the potential interactions between dietary factors and cancer risk, and the preventive measures that can be implemented to lessen the negative effects of factors that seem to increase disease risk. These are complex questions with no easy answers because of the nature of cancer. For instance, 56 distinct regions of the genome with loss of heterozygosity (LOH) were found during a genome-wide search for deleted regions in 75 human primary breast tumors [1]. The intriguing discovery was that each tumor had a unique set of deletions. No matter how carefully studies are planned and carried out, such heterogeneity, reflecting different genetic alterations and pathways to disease, has a significant impact on efforts to establish links between diet and cancer [2]. Similarly, interindividual differences in susceptibility resulting from shared polymorphisms in genes controlling the metabolism of exogenous substances can alter food ingredients’ carcinogenic or noncarcinogenic properties, making the interpretation of st more challenging.

Evidence for a diet and cancer relationship
The development of diet and cancer hypotheses for testing in clinical trials and the provision of insights into the relationships between diet and cancer prevention has been greatly aided by epidemiological studies, which are backed by preclinical data from in vitro and animal experiments as well as by clinical findings. The value of epidemiology in determining associations between diet and cancer is not without limitations, despite being a potent research method; one such limitation is measurement errors in dietary assessment.

Diet and Cancer Prevention Clinical Trials
To address questions regarding the ability of dietary patterns and constituents to prevent cancer (primary prevention) or its recurrence (secondary prevention), randomized, controlled dietary intervention and chemoprevention trials are designed to test hypotheses generated from epidemiological and laboratory investigations on diet and cancer prevention. These trials are relatively new tools in the arsenal of cancer research and offer two ways to prevent the disease.

Emerging evidence: gene–nutrient interaction
Human carcinogenesis is likely to involve many different types of genes, such as those that affect immune function, receptor or neurotransmitter action, DNA repair, chromosome stability, oncogene or tumor suppressor gene activity, cell cycle control, signal transduction, hormones, vitamin metabolism pathways, metabolic activation/detoxification, and cell cycle control [4]. being aware of how certain nutrients and other dietary components can either prevent or accelerate the development of cancer.

Future research directions: a new paradigm
The large body of research on diet and cancer prevention has greatly benefited from data from epidemiological, preclinical, and clinical intervention studies. We have only just started to scratch the surface, though. Very little is currently known about the fundamental causes of diet-cancer relationships. The state of science and technology has advanced to the point where basic research studies should be able to take precedence over those that only quantify the relationship between diet and cancer.

References:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022316623019740
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022316623019752
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0959804901000703
https://cancerblog.mayoclinic.org/2024/09/18/nourishing-your-health-diet-and-nutrition-factors-for-cancer-prevention/

Gynecologic exams may not be the most exciting things on your schedule, but they are essential for identifying gynecologic cancers early on, when they are most treatable, whether they are performed as part of a wellness visit or in response to a new concern. Endometrial, ovarian, cervical, vulvar, and vaginal cancers are among the gynecologic cancers.

Gynecology appointments ought to offer you a priceless chance to voice concerns, ask questions, and learn about your body from a professional who puts your health and well-being first. However, these visits may cause some anxiety if you’ve had trouble getting the care you need, finding answers, or if your experiences haven’t been great. According to Kristina Butler, M.D., becoming an advocate for your gynecologic health could make you feel more ready for your upcoming visit. a gynecologic oncologist at the Mayo Clinic. She wants you to be aware of the following:

A vital component of the patient-clinician relationship is trust. It enables you to communicate openly and honestly with your gynecologist and to let them know about important information that could influence your care. According to Dr. Butler, gynecologic cancers are challenging to discuss because they affect body parts that we don’t frequently talk about with others. For example, it can be challenging for a patient to mention that they are experiencing pain in their vulva.

Serious conditions like gynecologic cancers may go unnoticed if you don’t feel confident or at ease discussing these concerns with your gynecologist. Dr. Butler says it’s acceptable to look for someone who better suits your needs if you don’t feel heard. Friends and family recommendations are frequently a great place to start. You may be the first, and frequently the only, to notice changes in your body. By keeping your gynecologist informed of these changes, you enable them to assess your health more accurately and notify them of any changes that may call for further testing.

Dr. Butler emphasizes the significance of being in tune with your body, noting that it can be simple to ignore or write off certain changes as life gets busy. This entails realizing what constitutes your normal. Everyone’s normal is a little bit different, so that can be challenging, she says. Talking about something is crucial if it feels off and is happening repeatedly.

There are symptoms specific to each gynecologic cancer, but some of them are similar. If you’re experiencing any symptoms associated with gynecologic cancer, Dr. Butler says it’s important to talk to a clinician who specializes in gynecologic health, especially if you don’t feel your questions have been answered by your primary care physician. A lot of gynecologic cancers have ill-defined signs. Patients frequently discuss their symptoms with medical professionals who aren’t gynecologists, but she advises them to express their worries to several professionals until they receive the information they require to feel safe.

Any bleeding that happens after menopause or in between periods is considered abnormal vaginal bleeding. Pelvic pain or discomfort is defined as pressure or pain in the region of the body between the hip bones, which are located below the abdomen. Early satiety: Having a small meal and still feeling full. Pain, discomfort, or itching in the vulva: The vulva is made up of all the structures that make up the external genitalia. According to Dr. Butler, numerous healthcare professionals treat the pelvic region. These specialists might include your primary care physician, gynecologist, urologist, or gastroenterologist.

It is your right to have access to health-related information. You can better prepare for appointments and communicate health-related information to your healthcare provider by keeping yourself informed. Dr. Butler says you can do this in various ways. Patients always benefit from having a schedule. I strongly believe in the importance of lists, including those of prescription drugs, surgeries, diagnoses, and family medical history. Keeping a timeline and a list of these items can help keep the visit focused because all of this information is lengthy and easily forgotten or confused, according to Dr. Butler.

To share your medical records with your healthcare team, Dr. Dot Butler advises you to take responsibility for them. You own your medical records, pathology reports, surgical records, radiology imaging, and discs with viewable images. Medical record departments are permitted to give you access to that data. You have the right to do so, and I give patients the freedom to keep those for themselves and bring them with you when you visit.

In your pursuit of expanding your health knowledge, Dr. Butler emphasizes the significance of sourcing trustworthy health details. The internet emerges as an incredibly beneficial tool in this regard, serving as a means of self-education. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to exercise caution when selecting the sources of our health-related data. Misleading or entirely fabricated information on some websites and blogs can potentially induce anxiety and, in certain circumstances, pose a threat to our well-being.

It’s permissible for you to request a further examination from another expert. You hold the power to request a second professional perspective, and according to Dr. Butler, your gynecologist should not discourage you from doing so. I find it disconcerting when a practitioner shows disapproval towards a second opinion as patients have the autonomy to make the most informed decision for themselves, she asserts.

You might wish to seek a second opinion for many reasons, including:
You feel your symptoms have been dismissed.
You are unclear on your diagnosis.
You are unsure of your treatment options.
You don’t feel comfortable with the treatments recommended.
You have unanswered questions.
You don’t feel you can trust your physician.
It’s your decision and part of your right to stand up for yourself, whatever your motivation. Dr. Butler advises patients to seek second opinions as this is the best way to ensure they are making the best choice for themselves.

References:
https://cancerblog.mayoclinic.org/2024/09/25/gynecologic-cancers-4-affirmations-to-help-you-advocate-for-yourself/

Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available here
https://mygenericpharmacy.com/category/disease/cancer

primary peritoneal cancer, fallopian tube cancer, and ovarian epithelial cancer. They share a common ancestor and undergo analogous care. Because of their close anatomical proximity, the ovaries and fallopian tubes can sometimes be confused as the source of cancer, according to S. John Weroha, MdotD. Ph. D, a Mayo Clinic oncologist and head of the Gynecologic Cancer Disease Group at the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center. When we diagnose patients with primary peritoneal cancer, I explain that although the ovaries are not affected, the cancer appears to be ovarian cancer under a microscope and in the pattern of spread throughout the body.

The tissue lining the abdominal cavity and its organs is called the peritoneum, and this is where primary peritoneal cancer originates. The tissue lining the tubes that carry eggs from the ovaries to the uterus is where fallopian tube cancer develops. Ovarian epithelial carcinomas, also referred to as epithelial ovarian cancers, account for 85-90% of ovarian cancer cases. These cancers originate in the tissue that lines the outside of the ovaries. Dr. According to Weroha, more patients are surviving ovarian cancer of all kinds thanks to new treatments, and clinical trials are being conducted by researchers to examine these therapies and screening techniques. He would like you to know that there is hope if you have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer. This is the reason why.

Advanced targeted treatments are enhancing lifespans. 2. Surgical and chemotherapeutic interventions are no longer the sole methods for managing ovarian cancer; targeted therapies have emerged as alternatives. These innovative treatments employ drugs to pinpoint and eliminate cancerous cells. Among these are monoclonal antibodies and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase, or PARP, inhibitors.

Monoclonal antibodies
Lab-engineered molecules known as monoclonal antibodies are designed to recognize and bind to particular proteins linked to cancerous cells. A monoclonal antibody called bevacizumab is used in conjunction with chemotherapy to treat ovarian cancer recurrence by inhibiting the development of new blood vessels, which is necessary for tumor growth.

To get better results, researchers are mixing bevacizumab with novel medications. One such is mirvetuximab soravtansine, a monoclonal antibody that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved for use in patients experiencing a recurrence of ovarian cancer. This medication targets a protein known as folate receptor alpha and is used when a patient’s cancer has been previously treated with at least one systemic therapy.

Folate receptors are abundant in ovarian cancers. Dr. Weroha says that the majority of normal cells don’t. Chemotherapy is applied to an antibody to create this medication. Imagine it like a guided missile that flies through the body, attaching itself to cells that have folate receptors. Mirvetuximab soravtansine is far more effective than any other treatment at shrinking tumors in patients whose ovarian cancer has returned and whose tumors contain a high number of folate receptors. The response rate is roughly twice as high as with any other form of treatment.

PARP inhibitors
PARP inhibitors are medications that prevent DNA repair, potentially leading to the death of cancer cells. When someone has ovarian cancer and their tumors have mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene, one PARP inhibitor that is used to stop the disease from coming back is olaparib. Olaparib has been found to dramatically increase a patient’s chances of survival without recurrence in those with this diagnosis. According to Dr. Weroha, this is a front-line treatment, which means it is a part of the initial course of care that patients receive after receiving a new diagnosis.

One day, ovarian cancer may be combated with a vaccine. Theodore Block, M.D. Ph. D. , a medical oncologist at the Mayo Clinic, and Keith Knutson, Ph. D. , a researcher at the Mayo Clinic, is creating a vaccine to stop the recurrence of ovarian cancer tumors in patients with advanced disease whose tumors have returned despite chemotherapy and surgery. After being drawn from the blood, white blood cells are processed to create dendritic cells, which are immune cells that strengthen the body’s defenses. In order to stimulate the immune system to identify and combat the cancer, these cells are given back to the patient in the form of a vaccine.

Pembrolizumab, an immunotherapy medication, will be administered in addition to the vaccine to detect and eradicate any tumors that do not react to the dendritic cells. According to Dr. Weroha, pembrolizumab belongs to a class of medications known as immune checkpoint inhibitors. The purpose of this medication is to unblock the immune system and enable it to carry out its innate function of eliminating unwanted substances. It is hoped that the vaccine and immunotherapy medication will significantly reduce the incidence of ovarian cancer. The research is fascinating.

A screening test may be on the horizon.
Ovarian cancer does not currently have a screening test, however Jamie Bakkum-Gamez, MdotD. , a gynecologic oncologist at the Mayo Clinic, wants to alter that. She and her research team found that vaginal fluid collected with a tampon could be used to identify endometrial cancer using methylated DNA markers. This same science may eventually apply to ovarian cancer.

A mechanism that cells use to regulate gene expression is methylation, which turns on a gene in a cell so that it can produce RNA and proteins. A gene is said to be a tumor suppressor when a specific region of its DNA is methylated, which turns the gene off or silences it. Tumor suppressor gene silencing can indicate cancer and is frequently an early stage in the development of cancer.

A panel of methylated DNA markers was created by Dr. Bakkum-Gamez and her associates in order to differentiate vaginal fluid from noncancerous tissue and endometrial cancer. Her goal is to create a low-cost, tampon-based, at-home screening test for high-risk HPV, ovarian, cervical, and endometrial cancers based on her research. According to Dr. Weroha, this is exciting because people living in rural areas can use this kind of screening test. If it is successful, it may make it easier for medical professionals to detect ovarian and other gynecologic cancers in residents of all the communities we serve at an earlier stage, when they are more treatable.

Clinical trials and a gynecologic oncologist can assist you in receiving the best care available. Dr. Weroha advises scheduling a consultation with a gynecologic oncologist if you have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer. A gynecologic oncologist will be knowledgeable about the most recent guidelines for managing side effects and treatment recommendations. He says, That’s important. But once the strategy is established, any medical oncologist could carry it out.

Additionally, Dr. Weroha advises recently diagnosed patients to enquire with their care teams about their eligibility for clinical trials, mirvetuximab, or PARP inhibitors. Newer medications like mirvetuximab and PARP inhibitors may have an impact on how well your entire course of treatment goes. Always inquire about clinical trials, he says, since there is no treatment so effective that we can give up on finding a better cure when ovarian cancer returns. If your cancer returned, there’s a very real chance we would have something better than what we have now.

Refrences:
https://cancerblog.mayoclinic.org/2024/05/01/ovarian-cancer-new-treatments-and-research/
https://www.onclive.com/clinical/ovarian-cancer
https://www.nature.com/subjects/ovarian-cancer

Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available here
https://mygenericpharmacy.com/category/disease/cancer

The OvarianVax vaccine primes the immune system to identify and combat ovarian cancer in its early stages. Scientists at the University of Oxford are developing it. To eradicate the illness, it is hoped that women could get the vaccination on the NHS as a preventative measure. Experts speculate that it might function similarly to the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which is poised to eradicate cervical cancer.

Finding cellular targets for the vaccine is what Professor Ahmed and his group at the university’s MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine’s ovarian cancer cell laboratory are attempting to accomplish. They will determine how well the vaccine destroys disease models in a lab setting and which proteins on the surface of early-stage ovarian cancer cells are most recognized by the immune system. Subsequently, it can be tested in human clinical trials on both healthy women and individuals with BRCA gene mutations, which significantly raise the risk of ovarian cancer.

When asked if the new vaccine could eradicate ovarian cancer, Professor Ahmed replied, That would be the aim, absolutely. Though much must be done, this is an incredibly exciting time. I have a lot of optimism myself. As of right now, there is no screening test for ovarian cancer, which is typically detected too late due to hazy symptoms like bloating and appetite loss.

Actress Angelina Jolie is among the high-risk women who are known to have BRCA mutations. By the age of 80, about 45 percent of individuals with a mutated BRCA1 gene and about 20 percent of those with a mutated BRCA2 gene will have ovarian cancer, compared to just 2 percent of the general population.

Women who have BRCA1/2 mutations are currently advised to have their ovaries removed by the time they are 35 years old. This means that these women experience early menopause and are unable to conceive in the future. In the UK, there are approximately 7,500 new cases of ovarian cancer each year, and between 5 and 15 percent of these cases are caused by BRCA mutations.

According to Professor Ahmed, carriers of the BRCA mutation would benefit immensely from the new vaccine since they wouldn’t need to have their ovaries removed. We are talking about preventing the very first few cancer cells that develop, he continued, and not trying to cure, treat, or prevent the tumor from coming back. This gives me hope. Since we will only be focusing on a relatively small number of cells, I’m hoping that we will be successful.

The HPV vaccine has proven to be successful; it is incredibly effective. Even though the vaccine’s official approval process could take many years, its effects might become apparent sooner. In four or five years, Professor Ahmed said, he would like to begin observing the vaccine’s effects on the healthy population through clinical trials.

A tumor or aberrant cell growth that develops in the ovary is known as ovarian cancer. Most ovarian cancers occur in women over 50 and are epithelial in nature. It is strongly advised that women who have a family history of ovarian cancer undergo screening. Oxford University researchers are developing a vaccine called OvarianVax, which they believe will train the immune system to identify and combat ovarian cancer in its early stages.

The university’s ovarian cancer cell laboratory’s director, Prof. Although there is still much work to be done, Ahmed Ahmed expressed optimism. Initially, the vaccine will be developed in a lab to educate the immune system to identify tumor-associated antigens, which are proteins found on the surface of ovarian cancer.

Patients who already have the illness will then be used to test the vaccine. Prof. According to Ahmed, the theory is that if the vaccination is administered, these microscopic tumors should either decrease, drastically shrink, or go away. To determine whether the vaccine is effective in preventing ovarian cancer, the next stage will involve women who have genetic mutations that increase their risk of developing the disease as well as women who do not yet have it.

It’s a difficult task to train the immune system to detect the very early indicators of cancer, according to Ahmed. However, we now possess extremely advanced instruments that provide us with a genuine understanding of how the immune system identifies ovarian cancer. Oxford University reports that there are 7,500 new cases of ovarian cancer in the United Kingdom each year. According to Oxford, it is the sixth most common cancer in females.

According to estimates from the American Cancer Society, 19,680 women in the U.S. in 2024 be given a fresh diagnosis of ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer has no known screening test, and because symptoms like bloating and appetite loss can be ambiguous, the disease is frequently discovered after it is too late. Some women are more susceptible to the disease due to genetic mutations, and it is recommended that women with specific genetic mutations have their ovaries removed by the age of 35.

Scientists are still optimistic about the vaccine, stating that if it proves effective, women may never need to have their ovaries removed. It will take many years before any potential vaccine is suitable for widespread use, according to Dr. David Crosby, head of prevention and early detection research at Cancer Research UK. He stated, “At this point, researchers are using samples from patients with ovarian cancer to test the optimal ingredients to include in the vaccine in the lab.

Reference:

https://cancerblog.mayoclinic.org/2024/05/01/ovarian-cancer-new-treatments-and-research/
https://www.ox.ac.uk/news/2024-10-04-oxford-researchers-secure-funding-worlds-first-ovarian-cancer-prevention-vaccine
https://www.onclive.com/clinical/ovarian-cancer
https://news.sky.com/story/worlds-first-ovarian-cancer-vaccine-being-developed-in-uk-could-wipe-out-the-disease-13227127
https://www.nature.com/subjects/ovarian-cancer

Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available here
https://mygenericpharmacy.com/category/disease/cancer

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that 23.3 million people were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020, and 685,000 people died from the disease. It stated that breast cancer is the most common cancer worldwide, with 7.8 million women alive as of the end of 2020 who received a diagnosis within the previous five years. Its widespread occurrence may contribute to the explanation of the various myths that surround it. We’ll address 15 of the most prevalent misconceptions here.

A breast injury can cause breast cancer
Dr. Zeidman clarified that while injuries to the breast cannot directly cause breast cancer, they can result in changes to the breast that may appear on imaging to be breast cancer. He went on, “This process is called fat necrosis, and it can appear on a mammography as an irregular mass with jagged edges, similar to the appearance of a newly discovered breast cancer.”. A needle biopsy is the most reliable method of differentiating between fat necrosis and cancer.

Underwire bras increase the risk of breast cancer
Underwire bras do not raise the risk of breast cancer, but Dr. Zeidman always suggests wire-free bras. He clarifies that skin breakdown may result from irritation of the skin beneath the breast caused by the wire. Bacteria may enter the breast as a result of this breakdown and cause an infection, an abscess, or both.

IVF increases the risk of breast cancer
Doctors often prescribe medications that stimulate the ovaries to produce eggs as part of the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process. These medications imitate the effects of estrogen. This led some experts to question if they could promote the spread of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. These cancer cells have estrogen receptors on their membranes, as the name would imply. According to Dr. Zeidman, despite the lack of randomized controlled trials addressing this issue, a recent meta-analysis of all observational studies conducted over the previous 30 years found no increased risk of breast cancer in women who received ovarian stimulation drugs when compared to the general population.

No one in my family had breast cancer, so I won’t develop it
Dr. Zeidman said he was aware of this myth: It is very common for people who have been diagnosed with breast cancer for the first time to tell me how shocked they are considering that they have no family history. In response, I say that most patients I see who have recently been diagnosed with breast cancer do not have any risk factors. Being a woman is, in fact, the biggest risk factor for developing breast cancer. One in eight American women will experience breast cancer at some point in their lives.

Just 5–10% of breast cancers are brought on by a genetic mutation that is inherited from family members, as Dr. Fancher clarified for us. This indicates that most cases of breast cancer are unpredictable or not related to a family history. Screening is crucial because family history is not the only factor that affects a person’s risk of breast cancer. The message is that regardless of a family history of breast cancer, every woman starting at age 40 should have a yearly mammogram, according to Dr. Reitherman. By the time they are thirty years old, women who have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer should be assessed by a genetic counselor. It may be necessary for these women to start screening for breast cancer before turning 40. Please get your screening mammogram if you are a woman and at least 40 years old.

Being stressed can cause breast cancer
It should come as no surprise that people are worried about the potential health effects of stress given the constant stresses of modern life. But as Dr. Zeidman informed us, there is no proof at all that stress and breast cancer are related. In actuality, there is proof that stress does not raise the risk of breast cancer. That’s not to argue stress has no effect on health, though. He continues: Developing coping mechanisms for the stress that we will all unavoidably experience is a necessary aspect of being human. While there may be significant psychological and physical health benefits, there will be no reduction in the risk of breast cancer.

A healthy lifestyle eliminates breast cancer risk
Dr. Zeidman clarified that although postmenopausal women who are overweight are more likely to get breast cancer, there is nothing a woman can do to completely prevent breast cancer risk. Women who have bilateral mastectomy are still susceptible to getting breast cancer again. He is not, however, advocating that people begin smoking and consuming fast food daily. In general, he feels that since you only have one body, it is vital to take the best possible care of it. However, elite athletes have also received a breast cancer diagnosis.

Breast cancer only happens to older adults
Though the average age of a new breast cancer diagnosis is 61 years, women’s age indeed increases their risk of developing the disease. However, breast cancer can strike at a much younger age; approximately 5% of new cases are diagnosed in women under 40. Regretfully, there have been accounts of women receiving diagnoses who were as young as teens or early in their 20s. These young ladies usually have a strong family history. If your strong family history indicates that you have a significant lifetime risk of breast cancer, you may be eligible for genetic testing and early screening beginning at age 25.

All lumps in the breast signal breast cancer
This is untrue not every breast lump indicates cancer. According to Dr. Zeidman, most newly discovered breast lumps are benign. Additionally, that percentage is probably even higher if your most recent mammography came back normal. Dr. Zeidman did clarify, though, that a medical professional should examine any new lump.

Having an abortion increases the risk of breast cancer
This question arises because, as Dr. Zeidman informed us, estrogen exposure directly increases the risk of breast cancer, and abortion disrupts the normal hormonal cycle of pregnancy. Even though a randomized controlled trial is impossible to conduct to answer this question, a sizable observational study involving 1.5 million women in Denmark found no connection between breast cancer and abortion. He clarified that in addition to this analysis, numerous other extensive studies had reached the same conclusion.

Carrying a phone in your bra can cause cancer
We may discover that this is the case in the future, but we do not currently have any long-term studies. Why can’t you just tuck your phone into your pocket or purse for the time being?

Nipple piercings increase breast cancer risk
This is untrue, according to Dr. Dot Zeidman: having a nipple piercing does not raise your risk of breast cancer. He went on to explain, though, that these may result in more uncommon but dangerous illnesses like HIV and hepatitis B and C, as well as infections, abscesses, nerve damage, keloids, cysts, and trouble nursing because of blocked ducts from scar tissue. He stated, “I always advise against nipple piercing because of these reasons.”. I advise taking it down if the deed is completed.

Sugar causes breast cancer
Dr. Zeidman is adamant about the need to stay away from sugar in general. It’s compulsive. He went on, It can lead to mood swings and insulin spikes, which puts the body in a pro-inflammatory state. Diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic inflammatory disorders can then result from this. Overindulgence in sugar can lead to obesity, which increases the risk of breast cancer.

He did, however, clarify that research on the relationship between sugar and breast cancer has been inconsistent and of mixed results. In the context of sugar talk, it’s important to dispel the related myth that sugar promotes tumor growth. This myth developed because cancer cells require a lot of energy due to their rapid division. According to Dr. Zeidman, I still recommend avoiding added sugar as much as possible for overall well-being, even though there isn’t any hard evidence to support this.

Men do not get breast cancer
According to Dr. Zeidman, men can also develop breast cancer because they have breasts. Indeed, 1 percent of all diagnoses for breast cancer in the U.S. in males. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that in 2017, there were 500 deaths and 2,300 new cases of male breast cancer. According to Dr. Dot Fancher, although breast cancer is more common in women than in men, men can still develop the disease.

Since there are no screening recommendations for men, men must be aware of any changes in their breasts. Even if there isn’t a significant family history, you should still report any lumps, pains, or changes to your doctor. Dr. Reitherman continued, “The most common risk factor is a family history of breast cancer. Men are diagnosed with breast cancer rarely. For males who carry the BRCA2 gene, the risk of breast cancer is significantly elevated by this mutation.

Mammograms cause breast cancer to spread
Dr. Zeidman informed us that this is a common misconception she encounters with her patients. The theory is that the cancer will spread to other areas of the breast if it is compressed during a mammography or if it is removed with a needle biopsy. He does, however, affirm: There is no evidence to support this. Dr. Reitherman concurs, saying there is no proof at all that mammograms cause breast cancer. There is no proof or theory linking the very low radiation and compression used during a mammography procedure to the development of breast cancer.

If there is no lump, there is no cancer
Dr. Zeidman stated that mammograms would not be necessary if this were the case. Because mammograms enable us to detect cancer before it becomes palpable in this case, palpable refers to the ability for a person to feel a lump with their fingers they have been shown to save lives. When breast cancer is detected in its early stages and treated, the chance of survival approaches 100%.

As the stage progresses, survival decreases. In fact, Dr. Zeidman continued, the cancer might never become palpable and still spread to other parts of the body. Many breast cancers are discovered on screening mammograms and may not be felt, according to Dr. Dot Fancher. This is particularly true for ductal carcinoma in situ or noninvasive breast cancer, which may only manifest as calcifications on a screening mammography.

Breast cancer is a common disease, and although leading a healthy lifestyle may somewhat lower the risk, awareness is essential. A doctor’s chances of surviving breast cancer increase with early detection.

Reference:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/medical-myths-15-breast-cancer-misconceptions?utm_source=ReadNext#The-take-home

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