Modern Hygienist - September 2008 - (Page 37)

OVARIAN CANCER | life PRODUCT GUIDE protein in the blood that tends to be elevated in 80% of those with advanced ovarian cancer and 50% of those with early-stage cancer. This marker can be elevated from benign causes as well, and thus is not recommended as a screening procedure in the general population. It is used in cases where there is already a suspicion of ovarian cancer. ovulation (no pregnancies and/or infertility). ad index ADVERTISER Beckmer Products Inc. Chicago Dental Society Colgate Crescent Products Crosstex Discus Dental Johnson & Johnson Laclede Health Products Laclede Health Products McNeil-PPC, Inc. Microcopy Patterson Eaglesoft Patterson Caesy Plak Smacker Preventech Quantum Septodent Splintek Ultradent Products Inc. WHAT CAN WE DO? As dental hygienists, what can we do in the fight against ovarian cancer? In our profession, we are in contact with many women, both patients and co-workers, on a daily basis. We have the opportunity to promote ovarian cancer awareness in so many ways. It starts with getting more information (for starters, see p. 36). I like to print out fact sheets to have on display in the operatories and waiting room of my office. Pay close attention to suspicious symptoms that your patients may mention to you in the course of reviewing their medical history. Recommend that they see a gynecologist if they experience any persistent symptoms. Don’t forget to donate and urge others to do so as well. Even the best organizations need money to aid in their research efforts to find a method of early detection and treatment. The Web sites listed in this article offer secure donation sites as well as links to sign a petition to create an ovarian cancer awareness postage stamp. Most importantly, listen to your own body. Do not ignore symptoms that could indicate ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer awareness can start right here, right now with us. Far too many women have lost the battle to this deadly disease. As healthcare practitioners, we have the ability to join the fight. mh Maureen Murphy Chodaba, RDH, is a dental hygienist in the office of Alan Viani, DDS, in Poughkeepsie, NY. She is a certified Reach to Recovery volunteer for the American Cancer Society, serving as the co-coordinator of Reach to Recovery services in Ulster County, NY. PAGE 31 21 C2 23 18a C3 25 5 26 C4 10 a–b 7 16 20 12; 34 23 18b 11 9 SYMPTOMS AND RISK As you can see, we need to find a method of early detection. At present, we must rely on recognition of symptoms as a means of detection. Some signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer include: Persistent unexplained gastrointestinal discomfort such as gas, bloating, nausea, constipation or diarrhea, indigestion, or a feeling of “fullness” shortly after eating even small amounts Pelvic, abdominal or lower back pain Unexplained weight loss or gain Fatigue Shortness of breath Loss of appetite Abnormal postmenopausal vaginal bleeding and/or pain during intercourse The most significant risk factor is a mutation of one or both of the two “breast cancer genes”—BRCA1 and BRCA2. These mutations can be detected through a specific blood test. Other known risk factors are increasing age (being older than 50), family or personal history of ovarian, breast, endometrial, or colon cancer (family history includes both maternal and paternal sides of the family, but please note that only 10% of cases are linked to family history), and uninterrupted * * * * * * * advertising sales GROUP PUBLISHER Tom Delaney 847-716-8189 Fax: 847-716-8195 tdelaney@advanstar.com NORTHWEST Chrissy Byron 925-548-7128 cbyron@advanstar.com NORTHEAST Steve Kessler 732-357-7501 Fax: 732-627-0214 skessler@advanstar.com DISPLAY ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Linda Barrier 800-225-4569 ext.2701 Fax: 440-891-2650 lbarrier@advanstar.com MIDWEST Angela Gibbs 773-249-4515 Fax: 815-772-7871 agibbs@advanstar.com E-MEDIA Dan Krippner 847-716-8187 Fax: 847-716-8101 dkrippner@advanstar.com SOUTHWEST Dana Chiuminatta 714-513-8606 Fax: 714-513-8845 dchiuminatta@advanstar.com September 2008 | modern hygienist 37

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Modern Hygienist - September 2008

Modern Hygienist - September 2008 Contents Editor's Letter Letters Modern Solutions Access Denied Kids First: Creating Comfort Worn Out? Voice of a VIP Hands-on Hygiene: Magnification In Focus Digital Persuasion That "Other" Female Cancer Ad Index Classifieds Moonlighting

Modern Hygienist - September 2008

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