Latest news with #PCOS
Barnama
11 hours ago
- Health
- Barnama
Endometrial Cancer Cases Rising Among Young Women
KUALA LUMPUR, July 1 (Bernama) -- Endometrial (corpus uteri) cancer is now the fifth most common cancer among women in Malaysia, with a prevalence rate of 5.6 per cent. Consultant Obstetrician, Gynaecologist, and Gynae-Oncologist at Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City, Dr Andi Anggeriana Andi Asri said the cancer often silent in its early stages, is now increasingly affecting women under 50, including those in their early 30s. 'Abnormal uterine bleeding, either after menopause or irregular bleeding, is the most common symptom of endometrial cancer,' she said in a statement. She also emphasised other signs which include pelvic pain, unexplained weight loss, pain during urination or intercourse, and unusual vaginal discharge. 'These younger women often come for fertility consultations or hormonal imbalance issues, only to discover they have endometrial cancer. This revelation can be devastating, as it often comes when they are planning or have just started their families,' she said. Dr Andi Anggeriana said the trend is concerning as it affects both health and fertility, with obesity, sedentary lifestyles, and hormonal imbalances, especially those linked to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), being potential contributing factors due to elevated estrogen levels that may thicken the uterine lining. She noted that if diagnosed early, endometrial cancer may be treated with fertility-sparing options, depending on the stage and grade of the tumour. 'For women who are diagnosed early, there is a possibility to preserve the uterus and manage the cancer with hormonal therapy,' she said, adding that this approach requires close monitoring and carries a risk of recurrence. For those unable to preserve their fertility, the emotional toll can be significant, as many have not yet started or completed their families, making the diagnosis especially difficult.
New Indian Express
15 hours ago
- Health
- New Indian Express
Treating hormonal issues at birth can ensure normal growth in kids
Hormonal disorders in children can have significant physical, emotional, and social impacts. These conditions can affect growth, development, and overall well-being, making early diagnosis and treatment essential. Understanding these issues can help parents and caregivers take proactive steps to support their child's health and development, says Dr Riaz I, Professor, Paediatric and Adolescent Endocrine Clinic, Government TD Medical College, Alappuzha, in an interview with Unnikrishnan S. Edited excerpts: Q: What are the most common hormonal disorders in children? The most important endocrine disorder in children is hypothyroidism, especially congenital hypothyroidism, a condition present at birth, where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones, often due to gland maldevelopment. It's the most common preventable cause of intellectual disability. Early diagnosis and treatment at birth can ensure normal growth and brain development. Other common hormonal disorders include type-1 diabetes mellitus, acquired hypothyroidism, growth hormone deficiency, precocious puberty, delayed puberty, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, obesity & metabolic syndrome, hyperthyroidism (Graves' Disease) Q: What early signs should parents watch for? Abnormal growth patterns: It is important to record the height and weight of every child in a growth chart at periodic intervals. Slowing down or accelerated height or weight gain, falling off, or jumping across growth percentiles on a growth chart are all signs of an endocrine disease. Signs of diabetes: Frequent urination, excessive thirst, weight loss, bedwetting, or genital fungal infections. Puberty issues: Early signs (before 8 years in girls, 9 years in boys) or delayed signs (after 13 in girls, 14 in boys). Hypothyroidism: Fatigue, sleepiness, constipation, cold intolerance, jaundice, poor activity in newborns. Hyperthyroidism: Heat intolerance, sweating, unexplained weight loss, diarrhoea, irritability. Unusual hair growth or acne: Could indicate excess adrenal hormones or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in girls. Skin changes: Dark, velvety skin in folds (acanthosis nigricans) may suggest insulin resistance. Menstrual irregularities: Absent, delayed, or irregular periods in adolescents can point to hormonal imbalances. Q: Are there any preventive measures parents can take to avoid hormonal disorders in children? While not all hormonal disorders can be prevented, early detection and a healthy lifestyle play a key role. For example, congenital hypothyroidism can be silent at birth, so it is essential to check thyroid levels in all newborns. Early treatment can prevent intellectual and physical delays. Encouraging a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is also important. Limiting sugar, salt, fats, and junk foods can help prevent obesity and insulin resistance, which are linked to various hormonal issues. Ensuring that children get at least an hour of physical activity or play each day is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight and supporting hormone balance. Lastly, regular paediatric checkups to monitor growth and development are important. Early identification of any deviations allows for timely treatment of potential endocrine disorders. Q: What are the current treatment options for children diagnosed with hormonal diseases? Treatment for hormonal disorders in children varies based on the condition but generally focuses on restoring normal hormone levels and supporting growth and development. Common treatments include: Type-1 diabetes: Managed with insulin therapy (injections or pump), regular blood glucose monitoring, dietary adjustments, and self-care education Hypothyroidism: Treated with oral levothyroxine (synthetic thyroid hormone), with regular thyroid function tests to adjust dosage Hyperthyroidism: Treated with antithyroid medications and beta-blockers for symptom relief. In some cases, radioiodine therapy or surgery may be needed Growth hormone deficiency: Managed with recombinant human growth hormone injections, growth tracking, and periodic IGF-1 testing Precocious puberty: Treated with GnRH analogs to delay puberty. Further evaluation for underlying causes, such as CNS lesions or adrenal disorders, is also necessary Delayed Puberty: Often requires watchful waiting for constitutional delays, but hormone therapy (testosterone or estrogen) may be used if a pathological cause is found or if puberty is significantly delayed Congenital adrenal hyperplasia: Managed with glucocorticoids and sometimes mineralocorticoids, along with salt supplementation in salt-wasting forms. Growth, puberty, and adrenal crisis prevention are closely monitored Q: How do hormonal imbalances affect children socially and emotionally? How can we support them? Hormonal imbalances can lead to low self-esteem and body image issues in children due to delayed growth, early or late puberty, weight gain, or excessive hair growth. This may cause social withdrawal, embarrassment, and bullying. To support them, it's important to address the underlying condition with prompt treatment, provide proper counselling, and create a supportive, understanding family environment.
Hindustan Times
20 hours ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Nutritionist shares 7 tips to manage PCOS in just 4 weeks: 'Try seed cycling'
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that can cause irregular periods, excessive hair fall, darkening of the underarms, acne, mood swings, and rapid weight gain. However, adopting the right nutrition and lifestyle habits can significantly help in managing its symptoms. On May 31, Nutritionist Chahat shared an Instagram post outlining key habits that can effectively support PCOS management. Also read | PCOS diet: List of optimal food choices for managing symptoms Habits that can help in managing PCOS symptoms effectively. (Shutterstock) 'If you're struggling with belly fat, hair loss, dark patches on your neck or armpits, and irregular periods in PCOS, then through these 8 tips, you can start seeing improvements in just four weeks,' the nutritionist wrote. 1. Adopt a PCOS-friendly diet Add low-glycemic carbs like oats, brown rice, and quinoa, along with lean proteins such as eggs, tofu, and grilled chicken, to stabilize blood sugar and manage insulin resistance. Add fiber-rich vegetables (like spinach, broccoli, and bell peppers) and antioxidant-rich fruits (such as berries and oranges) to support hormone balance and reduce inflammation. Also read | PCOS diet tips: 10 foods that can help in polycystic ovary syndrome 2. Drink herbal teas Like spearmint tea (great for reducing excess androgens and facial hair), green tea (to improve insulin sensitivity), and ginger or dandelion tea (to help with bloating and inflammation). 3. Try seed cycling Start taking seeds at different phases of your menstrual cycle, like flaxseeds and pumpkin seeds from day 1 to 14, and sesame and sunflower seeds from day 15 to 28. This will help support natural estrogen and progesterone production. 4. Include an iron-boosting juice Try drinking a fresh juice made from beetroot, carrot, lemon, and a small piece of ginger. This mix is rich in iron, vitamin A, and antioxidants that key tackles fatigue, dull skin, hair fall, and even those dark patches on the neck or underarms. 5. Use healing herbs Like cinnamon (to improve blood sugar control), turmeric (to reduce inflammation), and fenugreek seeds (to regulate insulin and support ovulation) into your meals or drinks can make a real difference in how you feel over time. 6. Start the right supplements (with guidance) Vitamin D, zinc, omega-3s, and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) can also help reduce inflammation, regulate cycles, and support healthy skin and hair. Always consult a professional before starting them. Also read | Struggling with PCOS, unexpected weight gain? Gynac shares 5 things to have on empty stomach: Amla, flaxseeds and more 7. Incorporate balanced workouts A combination of strength training (2–3 times a week) and brisk walking or cycling can help reduce belly fat, improve insulin sensitivity, and balance hormones. Adding yoga or Pilates also helps lower cortisol levels and improve mood and digestion. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Hindustan Times
a day ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Harvard trained gastroenterologist shares ‘best drink for acne prone skin, backed by science'
Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist and 'Harvard and Stanford trained expert', took to Instagram on July 1 to share that spearmint tea may help alleviate acne-prone skin due to its potential benefits. He added that incorporating spearmint tea into your routine, may not just improve skin clarity and reduce acne severity, but also help regulate hormones. Also read | Sudden acne breakouts? Dermat shares 5 habits that help prevent flare-ups If you've been struggling with stubborn breakouts and have tried everything topical, these gut-friendly drinks might be worth trying. (Freepik) In the clip, Dr Sethi said, 'The best drink for acne-prone skin is spearmint tea. The best drink for better sleep is chamomile tea. The best drink for hormonal heath and PCOS is spearmint tea. The best drink for muscle recovery is tart cherry juice.' The caption read: 'Harvard-trained doctor shares best drink for acne-prone skin backed by science. In this video, Dr Sethi — a leading gastroenterologist — talks about the best drinks that may help you to get clearer skin, better sleep, hormonal health, and muscle recovery. This is not medical advice. But if you've been struggling with stubborn breakouts and have tried everything topical, these gut-friendly drinks might be worth understanding.' What are the benefits of spearmint tea? As per a July 2023 report on spearmint is a minty herb that's high in antioxidants and other beneficial plant compounds. It may help balance hormones, lower blood sugar and improve digestion, and can also reduce stress and improve. It may even reduce stress and improve memory. Spearmint has a pleasantly sweet taste and is frequently used to flavour toothpaste, mouthwash, chewing gum and candy. Overall, spearmint makes a great addition to any diet, particularly in the form of spearmint tea, which can be enjoyed hot or cold. A balanced diet is the solution to controlling acne breakouts. Click here to know about the 10 foods to keep acne at bay: from fennel and garlic to fish and broccoli. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Business Journals
a day ago
- Health
- Business Journals
One woman's story of how she overcame polycystic ovarian syndrome to become a mom
Erica spent years dealing with irregular periods and unwanted hair growth — symptoms she didn't realize were connected to polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) until she was diagnosed. In this inspiring video, she shares how working with Dr. Rebecca Usadi at Atrium Health Fertility Center led to answers, treatment and the joy of becoming a mother — twice. Learn more about PCOS, fertility care and the power of expert support through Atrium Health Women's Health. Atrium Health is a nationally recognized leader in shaping health outcomes through innovative research, education and compassionate patient care. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, Atrium Health is an integrated, nonprofit health system with more than 70,000 teammates serving patients at 40 hospitals and more than 1,400 care locations.
