Age at onset for familial epithelial ovarian cancer
Article Abstract:
Women with a family history of ovarian cancer have a higher risk of developing the disease, but they may do so at the same age as women who do not have relatives with ovarian cancer. Data from three independent studies of women with ovarian cancer found that women with a relative who has ovarian cancer are almost four times more likely to develop ovarian cancer. But they will develop the cancer at approximately the same age as women who do not have a relative with the disease. On the other hand, women with two or more first-degree relatives who have ovarian cancer are likely to develop the disease much earlier. These are the women who will benefit the most from prophylactic oophorectomy - removing the ovaries to prevent development of cancer. Women who have only one first-degree relative with ovarian cancer should not have surgery, especially if they are premenopausal.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1992
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Predisposition genetic testing for late-onset disorders in adults: a position paper of the National Society of Genetic Counselors
Article Abstract:
The National Society of Genetic Counselors has issued guidelines for physicians who offer their patients genetic tests to see if the patient has a predisposition for a specific disease. Many genetic diseases do not produce symptoms until late in adulthood. Physicians should discuss the nature of the test as well as its risks, limitations and benefits. After the patient has been tested, the physician should explain the results and offer psychological support by a team of social workers, psychologists and genetic counselors. All tests should be done by laboratories certified by the federal government.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1997
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A 64-year-old man with adult onset diabetes
Article Abstract:
As many as 15 million to 16 million Americans are estimated to have adult-onset diabetes, which is also called non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, or NIDDM. NIDDM is characterized primarily by a resistance to insulin, the hormone involved in sugar metabolism. Newly diagnosed patients can often control their blood sugar with proper diet and exercise. If that fails, they will have to take a class of drugs called sulfonylureas, which increase insulin secretion. They may ultimately have to inject insulin. Metformin and acarbose are two drugs that may be effective in reducing blood sugar.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1996
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