Belize Medical Associates

Ovarian Cancer Print E-mail

Ovarian cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the ovaries.

The ovaries are a pair of organs in the female reproductive system. They are located in the pelvis, one on each side of the uterus (the hollow, pear-shaped organ where a fetus grows). Each ovary is about the size and shape of an almond. The ovaries produce eggs and female hormones (chemicals that control the way certain cells or organs function).

Risk factors for ovarian cancer include the following:

* Being older.
* Having a family history of ovarian cancer.
* Having increased levels of CA 125.
* Obesity.

Certain factors may decrease a woman's risk of developing ovarian cancer. Women who have taken oral contraceptives ("the pill"), given birth, breast-fed, or had a tubal ligation or hysterectomy have a lower than average risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Tests that are used to detect (find) and diagnose ovarian cancer are:

CA-125 assay

A CA-125 assay is a test that measures the level of CA 125 in the blood. CA 125 is a substance released by cells into the bloodstream. An increased CA-125 level is sometimes a sign of certain types of cancer, including ovarian cancer, or other conditions.

Pelvic exam

A pelvic exam is an exam of the vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and rectum. The doctor or nurse inserts one or two lubricated, gloved fingers of one hand into the vagina and the other hand is placed over the lower abdomen to feel the size, shape, and position of the uterus and ovaries. A speculum is also inserted into the vagina and the doctor or nurse looks at the vagina and cervix for signs of disease.

Ovarian cancer is usually advanced when detected by a pelvic exam.

Transvaginal ultrasound

Transvaginal ultrasound is a procedure used to examine the vagina, uterus, fallopian tubes, and bladder. An ultrasound transducer (probe) is inserted into the vagina and used to bounce high-energy sound waves (ultrasound) off internal tissues or organs and make echoes. The echoes form a picture of body tissues called a sonogram.

These tests can all be done at Belize Medical Associates, 5791 St. Thomas Street, Belize City, Belize C.A. Tel#: 223-0302/03/04.

BELIZE MEDICAL ASSOCIATES:
QUALITY HEALTH CARE, COMPLETE AND AFFORDABLE!!

 

 
Testimonials
Dear Ladies and Gentlemen,

On December 23rd, 2010 our wife/mother unfortunately got very sick on our Caribbean dream–trip.
With this, we would like to thank you very much for your support.

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Hi Dr. Gough,

You saved our mom and we will be forever greatful for that.  My mom said that she would one day like to come to Belize to see you in person and to also give her thanks and gratitude!

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Dear Friends,

I would like to sincerely thank the entire staff of Belize Medical Associates Hospital for taking such a good care of me during my recent stay. 

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Greetings Dr. Cuellar,

On Monday I saw my regular doctor, she was very impressed with my care in Belize.  I was told that I was okay and do not have to come back.

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Dr. Cawich,

Almost a year has passed since I was treated by you at your hospital in Belize.  At the time I was on the Carnival Cruise Ship Glory and sent to your hospital with pneumonia.

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Dear Dr. Cawich,

Allegra and I cannot begin to thank you for all the special care you afforded her during her brief stay at Belize Medical Associates.

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Dear Dr. Musa and Staff,

THANK YOU!!!
This is long overdue but Jerry and I and the family want to thank you and your staff for the great care we received when Jerry was a patient at your hospital.

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Dear Staff,

I am writing to express my heartfelt thanks for all the quality expertise and service received while in critical care at the Belize Medical Associates in May 2009.

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