Breast Cancer
Mutation in either the BRCA1 or the BRCA2 gene, excess estrogen levels in the body, diet, excess weight, alcohol consumption, and cigarette smoking are all risk factors for breast cancer. While there's almost nothing we can do to change hereditary gene mutation, it is within our power to control the other factors and protect our breasts.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
A recent American Cancer Society study of more than 62,000 women found that the more weight women gain after age 18, the greater their risk of developing breast cancer during menopause. Extra pounds increase estrogen production, which can fuel cancer growth. On the other hand, even if you are heavier regular exercise will reduce your risk significantly.
“Physical activity is thought to lower the amount of estrogen in the body, thereby lowering your breast cancer,” explains Dr. Debbie Saslow, PhD, Director of Breast and Gynecologic Cancer at the American Cancer Society. So get moving. A brisk 30-minute walk five days a week can reduce breast cancer risk by 18 percent, according to a study of more than 74,000 women ages 50 to 79.
Eat Good Fats
High levels of polyunsaturated fat and saturated fat have been linked to breast cancer, so limit these fats in your diet. Opt for more monounsaturated fat, such as olive and canola oils. A study in Sweden of more than 61,000 women between the ages of 40 and 76 showed that consuming an additional 10 grams of monounsaturated fat reduces breast cancer risk by an estimated 45 percent. On the other hand, the study also showed that every extra 5 grams of polyunsaturated fat consumed, increased breast cancer risk by 69 percent. Breast cancer rates are low among women in Spain, Greece, and Italy, and the fact that people in these countries use olive oil as their primary source of fat undoubtedly is a factor in this beneficial result.
Eat Fruits and Vegetables
Carotenoids are powerful antioxidants that protect against cancer, and these are found in a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. Researchers at New York University compared blood samples from 270 women who subsequently developed breast cancer to samples taken from 270 women who did not. They found that women with the lowest levels of carotenoids had twice the risk of breast cancer as found in those with the highest levels. Try to eat five to nine servings (one-half- to one cup) daily of fruit and vegetables, especially carrots, tomatoes, watermelon, and spinach.
Add Flaxseed to Your Diet
These seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support cardiovascular health as well as lowering the risk of all types of cancer. Flaxseed also contains high levels of a compound called lignans that may reduce estrogen activity in the body. Studies on rats show that lignans actually shrink breast tumors. To eat flaxseed, sprinkle two to three tablespoons of ground flaxseed on your cereal, add to smoothies, or use flaxseed oil in salad dressing.
Learn to Like Soy
Women in Asia have one-fifth the breast cancer rate of Western women. Scientists believe that the reason is their soy-rich diet. A Japanese study showed that women who ate three or more bowls of miso soup (made with fermented soybeans), reduced their risk by 50 percent over those who had less. Soy foods contain phytoestrogens, compounds that are weak forms of estrogen and may protect against breast cancer. Add one to two servings of soy foods daily to your diet - a cup of soy milk, a half cup of tofu, tempeh, or soy nuts.
Limit Alcohol Intake
Alcohol intake is linked to increased levels of estrogen which fuels cancer. It is recommended that if you drink alcohol occasionally, take 400 micrograms of daily folic acid (the amount found in most multivitamins). A Mayo Clinic study showed that women with the lowest folate (folic acid occurring in fruits and vegetables) intake who drank even a small amount of alcohol daily -- even half a drink -- had a 59 percent increased risk of breast cancer, but a high intake of folate cancelled out the increased risk among moderate drinkers. How folate reduces the risk is not clear, but experts agree that most Americans are not getting enough.
Quit Smoking
Studies show that the younger women are when they first start smoking, the greater their risk of developing breast cancer before menopause. Other studies suggest that women with a family history of breast and ovarian cancer may increase their risk if they smoke. Also current and past smokers who develop breast cancer are twice as likely to get an aggressive form of the disease that is not estrogen-dependent. Similar risk applies with second-hand smoke.
Limit Use of Antibiotics
New evidence suggests that the more often you take antibiotics, the higher your breast cancer risk. A study of more than 10,000 women revealed that the risk of breast cancer is doubled among those who took antibiotics for more than 500 cumulative days (the equivalent of about 25 prescriptions) over an average of 17 years compared with women who never took antibiotics. Researchers caution, however, that other factors, such as underlying illness, weakened immune system, or hormonal imbalance, could account for the increased risk.
Opt to Breast-Feed
Not only is it good for your infant, but lactation also suppresses ovulation and the production of estrogen. Researchers compared the birth rates and breast-feeding practices among women in developed countries with women in developing nations in Asia and Africa and found that the breast cancer risk in developed countries could be cut in half if women had as many babies and breast-fed each child for an average of 30 months per child as women in developing countries. Breast-feeding alone would reduce the risk by two-thirds. They also found that for each year a woman breast-feeds, her breast cancer risk dropped 4 percent.
Source:
American Breast Cancer Association
The Mayo Clinic
By: Syble James
Breast Cancer
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Breast Cancer; Facts and Figures (Breast Cancer)
Breast Cancer
It would not be surprising, therefore, that any ailment or condition that endangers the look, health and functionality of this vital body part would be a real source of worry to every lady.
Breast cancer, despite all medical and technological advances, as been on the rise in the last 50 years or so. The figures that stare us in the face when we check the records are quite alarming. But, there is no running away from these figures, they are real.
It's alarming but it is true that there's more breast cancer now than ever before. It is true that between 1979 and 1986 the incidence of invasive breast cancer in the United States alone has increased 29 percent among white women and 41 percent among black women, and incidences of all breast cancer doubled. It's true that despite yearly mammograms and advanced medical and diagnostic technology the percentage of women dying from breast cancer has remained virtually unchanged over the past 50 years, and that every 12 minutes throughout the last half of the 20th Century another woman died of breast cancer.
It is also fact that more than two hundred thousand cases of breast cancer are diagnosed every year in the United States. In Canada about twenty thousand new cases, thirteen thousand in Australia and over forty one thousand in the UK. And it's true that breast cancer is the disease that women fear more than any other, that breast cancer is the biggest killer of all women aged 35 to 54, and that of the 2.5 million women currently diagnosed with breast cancer, half will be dead within ten years.
It really does not matter if you are 20 years old or 50 years old. You stand some risk of catching the monster. It is estimated that one in every nine women will get breast cancer at some period in her life
These are not pleasant tales. My purpose in painting these gory pictures, is not to scare anyone, but to make you see the importance of giving more attention to your breast. The more you know about breast cancer, the better.
Almost every woman is at risk of breast cancer, but records show that 80% of cases are found in woman over 50 years of age. There are several factors that can predispose one to breast cancer. Some are within your control and others are not. It therefore makes much sense to avoid the humanly controllable factors as much as possible. Most of these are the daily lifestyle choices we make. The problem is that these habits do not show the extent of damage they can cause to our body until we begin to get older, and by then the damage is done already.
Factors associated with breast cancer include:
- Taking an oral contraceptive pill
- Hormone replacement therapy
- Obesity and/or high fat diets
- Family history of breast cancer
It is worth stating here, however, that most breast cancer are hormonally related Other factors may also affecting the risk, include stress, carcinogens, excessive use of stimulants like alcohol, caffeine and cigarettes and exposure to pesticides and radiation.
Early detection of breast cancer is still the best guarantee of getting cured. Presently, six out of every seven patients diagnosed with breast cancer are cured at an early stage. However, if they are diagnosed when the cancer has become advanced, the cure rate falls to about one in seven. It is extremely important to catch breast cancer at an early stage if it is to be satisfactorily cured. This therefore makes knowing the symptoms very crucial.
Breast cancer, in its early stages hardly shows any sign at all. It does not cause any pain in most instances. Some of the symptoms associated with breast cancer include:
- Itching in the armpit or around the breast region
- Pink, red, or dark colored area (called erythematic) with texture similar to the skin of an orange
- Ridges and thickened areas of the skin of nipple or breast
- Appearance of a bruise that does not go away
- Nipple getting inverted
- Breast warm to the touch
- Pain in the breast which could vary from a constant ache to stabbing pains
- Change in texture as well as color of the skin around the nipple
- Change in the shape or size of a breast
- Dimpling of the breast skin
- Swelling or a lump in the armpit
- Discharge from the nipple
None of these symptoms is clear evidence of breast cancer, as most of the signs may also arise due to other conditions affecting the breast. Only a doctor can made a definite statement about the presence or otherwise of breast cancer after an exhaustive examination.
Know your breast, and how to self examine your breast and always report the slightest changes to a doctor. It's not worth taking chances with breast cancer. It's real and it's spreading like wild fire in the ever-polluted society we live in today. Do the little you can to keep your name off the breast cancer list, the sacrifice is worth it.
By: Michael Russell
Breast Cancer
It would not be surprising, therefore, that any ailment or condition that endangers the look, health and functionality of this vital body part would be a real source of worry to every lady.
Breast cancer, despite all medical and technological advances, as been on the rise in the last 50 years or so. The figures that stare us in the face when we check the records are quite alarming. But, there is no running away from these figures, they are real.
It's alarming but it is true that there's more breast cancer now than ever before. It is true that between 1979 and 1986 the incidence of invasive breast cancer in the United States alone has increased 29 percent among white women and 41 percent among black women, and incidences of all breast cancer doubled. It's true that despite yearly mammograms and advanced medical and diagnostic technology the percentage of women dying from breast cancer has remained virtually unchanged over the past 50 years, and that every 12 minutes throughout the last half of the 20th Century another woman died of breast cancer.
It is also fact that more than two hundred thousand cases of breast cancer are diagnosed every year in the United States. In Canada about twenty thousand new cases, thirteen thousand in Australia and over forty one thousand in the UK. And it's true that breast cancer is the disease that women fear more than any other, that breast cancer is the biggest killer of all women aged 35 to 54, and that of the 2.5 million women currently diagnosed with breast cancer, half will be dead within ten years.
It really does not matter if you are 20 years old or 50 years old. You stand some risk of catching the monster. It is estimated that one in every nine women will get breast cancer at some period in her life
These are not pleasant tales. My purpose in painting these gory pictures, is not to scare anyone, but to make you see the importance of giving more attention to your breast. The more you know about breast cancer, the better.
Almost every woman is at risk of breast cancer, but records show that 80% of cases are found in woman over 50 years of age. There are several factors that can predispose one to breast cancer. Some are within your control and others are not. It therefore makes much sense to avoid the humanly controllable factors as much as possible. Most of these are the daily lifestyle choices we make. The problem is that these habits do not show the extent of damage they can cause to our body until we begin to get older, and by then the damage is done already.
Factors associated with breast cancer include:
- Taking an oral contraceptive pill
- Hormone replacement therapy
- Obesity and/or high fat diets
- Family history of breast cancer
It is worth stating here, however, that most breast cancer are hormonally related Other factors may also affecting the risk, include stress, carcinogens, excessive use of stimulants like alcohol, caffeine and cigarettes and exposure to pesticides and radiation.
Early detection of breast cancer is still the best guarantee of getting cured. Presently, six out of every seven patients diagnosed with breast cancer are cured at an early stage. However, if they are diagnosed when the cancer has become advanced, the cure rate falls to about one in seven. It is extremely important to catch breast cancer at an early stage if it is to be satisfactorily cured. This therefore makes knowing the symptoms very crucial.
Breast cancer, in its early stages hardly shows any sign at all. It does not cause any pain in most instances. Some of the symptoms associated with breast cancer include:
- Itching in the armpit or around the breast region
- Pink, red, or dark colored area (called erythematic) with texture similar to the skin of an orange
- Ridges and thickened areas of the skin of nipple or breast
- Appearance of a bruise that does not go away
- Nipple getting inverted
- Breast warm to the touch
- Pain in the breast which could vary from a constant ache to stabbing pains
- Change in texture as well as color of the skin around the nipple
- Change in the shape or size of a breast
- Dimpling of the breast skin
- Swelling or a lump in the armpit
- Discharge from the nipple
None of these symptoms is clear evidence of breast cancer, as most of the signs may also arise due to other conditions affecting the breast. Only a doctor can made a definite statement about the presence or otherwise of breast cancer after an exhaustive examination.
Know your breast, and how to self examine your breast and always report the slightest changes to a doctor. It's not worth taking chances with breast cancer. It's real and it's spreading like wild fire in the ever-polluted society we live in today. Do the little you can to keep your name off the breast cancer list, the sacrifice is worth it.
By: Michael Russell
Breast Cancer
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Breast Cancer - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment (Breast Cancer)
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a malignant (cancerous) growth that begins in the tissues of the breast. Over the course of a lifetime, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Breast cancer is a cancer of the breast tissue, which can occur in both women and men. Breast cancer may be one of the oldest known forms of cancer tumors in humans.Worldwide, breast cancer is the fifth most common cause of cancer death (after lung cancer, stomach cancer, liver cancer, and colon cancer). Breast cancer kills more women in the United States than any cancer except lung cancer. Today, breast cancer, like other forms of cancer, is considered to be a result of damage to DNA. How this mechanism may occur comes from several known or hypothesized factors (such as exposure to ionizing radiation, or viral mutagenesis). Some factors lead to an increased rate of mutation (exposure to estrogens) and decreased repair (the BRCA1, BRCA2 and p53) genes. Alcohol generally appears to increase the risk of breast cancer.
Breast cancer can also occur in men, although it rarely does. Experts predict 178,000 women and 2,000 men will develop breast cancer in the United States. There are several different types of breast cancer. First is Ductal carcinoma begins in the cells lining the ducts that bring milk to the nipple and accounts for more than 75% of breast cancer. Second is Lobular carcinoma begins in the milk-secreting glands of the breast but is otherwise fairly similar in its behavior to ductal carcinoma. Other varieties of breast cancer can arise from the skin, fat, connective tissues, and other cells present in the breast. Some women have what is known as HER2-positive breast cancer. HER2, short for human epidermal growth factor receptor-2, is a gene that helps control cell growth, division, and repair. When cells have too many copies of this gene, cell growth speeds up.
Causes of Breast Cancer
Simply being a woman is the main risk for breast cancer. While men can also get the disease, it is about 100 times more common in women than in men. The chance of getting breast cancer goes up as a woman gets older. Nearly 8 out of 10 breast cancer are found in women age 50 or older. About 5% to 10% of breast cancer are linked to changes (mutations) in certain genes. The most common gene changes are those of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Breast cancer risk is higher among women whose close blood relatives have this disease. The relatives can be from either the mother’s or father’s side of the family. Woman with cancer in one breast has a greater chance of getting a new cancer in the other breast or in another part of the same breast. This is different from the first cancer coming back Many experts now believe that the main reason for this is because they have faster growing tumors. Asian, Hispanic, and American Indian women have a lower risk of getting breast cancer. Certain types of abnormal biopsy results can be linked to a slightly higher risk of breast cancer.Women who have had radiation treatment to the chest area (as treatment for another cancer) earlier in life have a greatly increased risk of breast cancer
Some pregnant women were given the drug DES (diethylstilbestrol) because it was thought to lower their chances of losing the baby. Recent studies have shown that these women (and their daughters who were exposed to DES while in the uterus), have a slightly increased risk of getting breast cancer. Use of alcohol is clearly linked to a slightly increased risk of getting breast cancer. Women who have 1 drink a day have a very small increased risk. Those who have 2 to 5 drinks daily have about 1½ times the risk of women who drink no alcohol. The American Cancer Society suggests limiting the amount you drink.Being overweight is linked to a higher risk of breast cancer, especially for women after change of life and if the weight gain took place during adulthood. Also, the risk seems to be higher if the extra fat is in the waist area. Breast-feeding and pregnancy: Some studies have shown that breast-feeding slightly lowers breast cancer risk, especially if the breast-feeding lasts 1½ to 2 years. This could be because breast-feeding lowers a woman’s total number of menstrual periods, as does pregnancy. Women who began having periods early (before 12 years of age) or who went through the change of life (menopause) after the age of 55 have a slightly increased risk of breast cancer.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
1.Lumps.
2.Rash.
3.Breast Pain.
4.Cysts.
5.Nipple Discharge.
6.Inverted Nipple.
Treatment of Breast Cancer
1.Hormonal therapy (with tamoxifen).
2.Chemotherapy.
3.Radiotherapy.
4.Surgery.
By: Sushma Jain
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a malignant (cancerous) growth that begins in the tissues of the breast. Over the course of a lifetime, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Breast cancer is a cancer of the breast tissue, which can occur in both women and men. Breast cancer may be one of the oldest known forms of cancer tumors in humans.Worldwide, breast cancer is the fifth most common cause of cancer death (after lung cancer, stomach cancer, liver cancer, and colon cancer). Breast cancer kills more women in the United States than any cancer except lung cancer. Today, breast cancer, like other forms of cancer, is considered to be a result of damage to DNA. How this mechanism may occur comes from several known or hypothesized factors (such as exposure to ionizing radiation, or viral mutagenesis). Some factors lead to an increased rate of mutation (exposure to estrogens) and decreased repair (the BRCA1, BRCA2 and p53) genes. Alcohol generally appears to increase the risk of breast cancer.
Breast cancer can also occur in men, although it rarely does. Experts predict 178,000 women and 2,000 men will develop breast cancer in the United States. There are several different types of breast cancer. First is Ductal carcinoma begins in the cells lining the ducts that bring milk to the nipple and accounts for more than 75% of breast cancer. Second is Lobular carcinoma begins in the milk-secreting glands of the breast but is otherwise fairly similar in its behavior to ductal carcinoma. Other varieties of breast cancer can arise from the skin, fat, connective tissues, and other cells present in the breast. Some women have what is known as HER2-positive breast cancer. HER2, short for human epidermal growth factor receptor-2, is a gene that helps control cell growth, division, and repair. When cells have too many copies of this gene, cell growth speeds up.
Causes of Breast Cancer
Simply being a woman is the main risk for breast cancer. While men can also get the disease, it is about 100 times more common in women than in men. The chance of getting breast cancer goes up as a woman gets older. Nearly 8 out of 10 breast cancer are found in women age 50 or older. About 5% to 10% of breast cancer are linked to changes (mutations) in certain genes. The most common gene changes are those of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Breast cancer risk is higher among women whose close blood relatives have this disease. The relatives can be from either the mother’s or father’s side of the family. Woman with cancer in one breast has a greater chance of getting a new cancer in the other breast or in another part of the same breast. This is different from the first cancer coming back Many experts now believe that the main reason for this is because they have faster growing tumors. Asian, Hispanic, and American Indian women have a lower risk of getting breast cancer. Certain types of abnormal biopsy results can be linked to a slightly higher risk of breast cancer.Women who have had radiation treatment to the chest area (as treatment for another cancer) earlier in life have a greatly increased risk of breast cancer
Some pregnant women were given the drug DES (diethylstilbestrol) because it was thought to lower their chances of losing the baby. Recent studies have shown that these women (and their daughters who were exposed to DES while in the uterus), have a slightly increased risk of getting breast cancer. Use of alcohol is clearly linked to a slightly increased risk of getting breast cancer. Women who have 1 drink a day have a very small increased risk. Those who have 2 to 5 drinks daily have about 1½ times the risk of women who drink no alcohol. The American Cancer Society suggests limiting the amount you drink.Being overweight is linked to a higher risk of breast cancer, especially for women after change of life and if the weight gain took place during adulthood. Also, the risk seems to be higher if the extra fat is in the waist area. Breast-feeding and pregnancy: Some studies have shown that breast-feeding slightly lowers breast cancer risk, especially if the breast-feeding lasts 1½ to 2 years. This could be because breast-feeding lowers a woman’s total number of menstrual periods, as does pregnancy. Women who began having periods early (before 12 years of age) or who went through the change of life (menopause) after the age of 55 have a slightly increased risk of breast cancer.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
1.Lumps.
2.Rash.
3.Breast Pain.
4.Cysts.
5.Nipple Discharge.
6.Inverted Nipple.
Treatment of Breast Cancer
1.Hormonal therapy (with tamoxifen).
2.Chemotherapy.
3.Radiotherapy.
4.Surgery.
By: Sushma Jain
Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer Risk Factors (Breast Cancer)
Breast Cancer
Anything that may increase the chance of developing a disease is considered a risk factor. As research has indicated women with certain risk factors are more likely than others to develop breast cancer.
The exact causes for breast cancer are not known. Often doctors cannot explain why one woman may develop breast cancer but another does not. What is known is that bruising, bumping or touching the breast does not cause cancer. Breast cancer is not contagious. It is not “caught” from others.
There have been studies that have revealed some of the risk factors for breast cancer. Among those risk factors are a woman’s age, a family or personal history of breast cancer, changes in her breast, changes in her genes and her menstrual history. Other risk factors for breast cancer include a woman’s race, if she has had radiation therapy to the chest, and her breast density. Still other factors for breast cancer include taking diethylstilbestrol (DES), her being overweight or obese after menopause, not being physically active, and her alcohol consumption.
Breast cancer is not common in women before menopause. As women age their chances for breast cancer development can increase. Breast cancer occurrence is greater for women over age 60.
The chance of a woman developing breast cancer is greater if her mother, sister or daughter has a history of the disease. If a family member developed breast cancer before the age of 40, the risk is even greater for a woman developing breast cancer. Other relatives having breast cancer, either on her maternal or paternal side of the family, can also place a woman at greater risk for developing breast cancer.
Having a personal history of breast cancer can also increase a woman’s risk. If a woman has had breast cancer in one breast the risk of getting breast cancer in the other breast increase.
Changes in a woman’s breast can place a woman at risk for breast cancer. Cells in a woman’s breast may look abnormal under a microscope. Abnormal cells such as atypical hyperplasia and lobular carcinoma in situ (or LCIS) increase a woman’s risk for breast cancer.
Changes in a woman’s genes including BRCA1, BRCA2, and others may increase the risk for breast cancer. Tests from family members who have been known to have breast cancer can reveal the presence of specific gene changes in family members. In order to improve the detection of this disease in women who have these changes in their genes health care providers may be able to suggest ways to try to reduce the risk of breast cancer.
A woman’s menstrual and reproductive history can place a woman at risk for breast cancer. Women having their first menstrual period before age 12 have a greater risk for developing breast cancer. The risk of breast cancer increase the older a woman is when she had her first child. A woman going through menopause after age 55 places her at greater risk for breast cancer. If a woman has never had children she is at a greater risk of breast cancer. Taking menopausal hormone therapy with estrogen plus progestin after menopause appears to increase risks for breast cancer. Studies have shown no link between miscarriage or abortion and risks for breast cancer.
Race is another risk factor for breast cancer. Caucasian women more often than Latina, African or Asian American women are diagnosed with breast cancer.
Radiation therapy performed to the chest, including the breast, before a woman is age 30 is another known risk factor for breast cancer. Studies indicate the younger the age of a woman when she received radiation treatment the higher the risk for breast cancer in later life.
A woman’s breast tissue is either fatty or dense. Placing them at a higher risk of breast cancer are older women whose mammograms, or breast x-rays, reveal more dense tissue.
Diethylstilbestrol, also known as DES, was given to some pregnant women in the United States during the 1940’s until 1971. This is no longer given to pregnant women. Taking DES during pregnancy may slightly increase the risk for breast cancer. The possible effects on the daughters of women who were given DES while pregnant are still being studied.
A woman being overweight or obese after menopause can increase a woman’s risk for developing breast cancer. Studies have indicated that after menopause the risk increases for women who are overweight.
A physically inactive lifestyle may contribute to risks for breast cancer. If a woman is active it can prevent weight gain and obesity and therefore reduce chances for breast cancer.
Drinking alcohol increases risks for breast cancer. Studies indicate the more alcohol a woman drinks her risk for breast cancer increase.
Researchers are currently studying other possible risk factors for breast cancer. Currently being studied are the effect of diet, genetics, physical activity, and certain environmental substances increasing the risks for breast cancer.
Avoiding known risk factors for breast cancer can help women protect themselves against breast cancer. Risk factors for breast cancer such as family history cannot be avoided. These should be discussed with her doctor.
Most women who have known risk factors do not get breast cancer. Many women with breast cancer do not have a family history of the disease. Most women with breast cancer have no clear sign for risk factors other than growing older.
If a woman thinks she is at risk for breast cancer she should discuss her concern with her doctor. Her doctor may be able to suggest ways she can reduce her risk. At risk or not, a woman should plan scheduled checkups with her health care provider. Prevention is the best cure.
By: John Marston
Breast Cancer
Anything that may increase the chance of developing a disease is considered a risk factor. As research has indicated women with certain risk factors are more likely than others to develop breast cancer.
The exact causes for breast cancer are not known. Often doctors cannot explain why one woman may develop breast cancer but another does not. What is known is that bruising, bumping or touching the breast does not cause cancer. Breast cancer is not contagious. It is not “caught” from others.
There have been studies that have revealed some of the risk factors for breast cancer. Among those risk factors are a woman’s age, a family or personal history of breast cancer, changes in her breast, changes in her genes and her menstrual history. Other risk factors for breast cancer include a woman’s race, if she has had radiation therapy to the chest, and her breast density. Still other factors for breast cancer include taking diethylstilbestrol (DES), her being overweight or obese after menopause, not being physically active, and her alcohol consumption.
Breast cancer is not common in women before menopause. As women age their chances for breast cancer development can increase. Breast cancer occurrence is greater for women over age 60.
The chance of a woman developing breast cancer is greater if her mother, sister or daughter has a history of the disease. If a family member developed breast cancer before the age of 40, the risk is even greater for a woman developing breast cancer. Other relatives having breast cancer, either on her maternal or paternal side of the family, can also place a woman at greater risk for developing breast cancer.
Having a personal history of breast cancer can also increase a woman’s risk. If a woman has had breast cancer in one breast the risk of getting breast cancer in the other breast increase.
Changes in a woman’s breast can place a woman at risk for breast cancer. Cells in a woman’s breast may look abnormal under a microscope. Abnormal cells such as atypical hyperplasia and lobular carcinoma in situ (or LCIS) increase a woman’s risk for breast cancer.
Changes in a woman’s genes including BRCA1, BRCA2, and others may increase the risk for breast cancer. Tests from family members who have been known to have breast cancer can reveal the presence of specific gene changes in family members. In order to improve the detection of this disease in women who have these changes in their genes health care providers may be able to suggest ways to try to reduce the risk of breast cancer.
A woman’s menstrual and reproductive history can place a woman at risk for breast cancer. Women having their first menstrual period before age 12 have a greater risk for developing breast cancer. The risk of breast cancer increase the older a woman is when she had her first child. A woman going through menopause after age 55 places her at greater risk for breast cancer. If a woman has never had children she is at a greater risk of breast cancer. Taking menopausal hormone therapy with estrogen plus progestin after menopause appears to increase risks for breast cancer. Studies have shown no link between miscarriage or abortion and risks for breast cancer.
Race is another risk factor for breast cancer. Caucasian women more often than Latina, African or Asian American women are diagnosed with breast cancer.
Radiation therapy performed to the chest, including the breast, before a woman is age 30 is another known risk factor for breast cancer. Studies indicate the younger the age of a woman when she received radiation treatment the higher the risk for breast cancer in later life.
A woman’s breast tissue is either fatty or dense. Placing them at a higher risk of breast cancer are older women whose mammograms, or breast x-rays, reveal more dense tissue.
Diethylstilbestrol, also known as DES, was given to some pregnant women in the United States during the 1940’s until 1971. This is no longer given to pregnant women. Taking DES during pregnancy may slightly increase the risk for breast cancer. The possible effects on the daughters of women who were given DES while pregnant are still being studied.
A woman being overweight or obese after menopause can increase a woman’s risk for developing breast cancer. Studies have indicated that after menopause the risk increases for women who are overweight.
A physically inactive lifestyle may contribute to risks for breast cancer. If a woman is active it can prevent weight gain and obesity and therefore reduce chances for breast cancer.
Drinking alcohol increases risks for breast cancer. Studies indicate the more alcohol a woman drinks her risk for breast cancer increase.
Researchers are currently studying other possible risk factors for breast cancer. Currently being studied are the effect of diet, genetics, physical activity, and certain environmental substances increasing the risks for breast cancer.
Avoiding known risk factors for breast cancer can help women protect themselves against breast cancer. Risk factors for breast cancer such as family history cannot be avoided. These should be discussed with her doctor.
Most women who have known risk factors do not get breast cancer. Many women with breast cancer do not have a family history of the disease. Most women with breast cancer have no clear sign for risk factors other than growing older.
If a woman thinks she is at risk for breast cancer she should discuss her concern with her doctor. Her doctor may be able to suggest ways she can reduce her risk. At risk or not, a woman should plan scheduled checkups with her health care provider. Prevention is the best cure.
By: John Marston
Breast Cancer
What Are The Risk Factors for Breast Cancer? (Breast Cancer)
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a largely unknown disease until today, despite the fact that it affects almost ten percent of the women above the age of forty years all over the world. The causes of this killer cancer are not known even after decades of research into it. Similarly it is unknown why some women have higher chances of getting breast cancer than others.
Though the causative factors are not known, some risk factors have been identified. There is no medical proof why these factors make the disease more probable, but this is a study of observation. In a vast cross-section of women with the observed risk factors, it has been found that the chances of getting breast cancer are very high.
The various risk factors for breast cancer are as follows:-
(1) Family History of Breast Cancer
If a near relative like a mother or a sister has had breast cancer, then there is a very high chance that the cancer will occur sometime in life. This propensity is observed even if far relatives such as cousins and aunts have had breast cancer, though the chances are lesser as the relatives are more removed. Even if a male relative has had breast cancer or prostate cancer, then there is a chance of getting breast cancer. This clearly indicates that breast cancer runs through family lines through inheritance. Certainly the chances are very high if more than one family member has had breast cancer.
(2) Personal History of Breast Cancer
If a woman has had breast cancer in the past, then there is a great chance that the breast cancer may recur. This is true even if the cancer had been removed in its benign stage itself. Sometimes the cancer cells spread into the nearby lymph. This makes a possibility that the cancer will occur in the opposite breast. In fact, women who have had cancer in one breast have 50 to 75% more chances of developing the cancer in the other breast.
(3) Diseases of the Breast
Several breast diseases can increase the chances of having breast cancer. Changes in the cells of the breasts can lead to atypical hyperplasia. This condition can cause a three to fourfold increase in the possibility of getting breast cancer in the later years. This risk also exists if the atypical hyperplasia has occurred in other women of the family. Another such condition is the benign breast tumor condition known as fibro adenoma. However, women with fibrocystic breasts generally do not have any added vulnerability to breast cancer. Yet, such conditions could make the breasts lumpy and hide the real tumors (if any) during mammography.
(4) Lifestyle
In today’s world, lifestyle is the single largest contributing factor for the proliferation of breast cancer among women. Several elements of the lifestyle have been found to be directly accordant with the prevalence of breast cancer. Smoking and alcoholism in women are among the chief factors. Even diet has been pointed out as an important risk factor. Women who consume a diet with more high-cholesterol fats in them have higher chances of breast cancer. At the same time leading a sedentary lifestyle without indulging much in physical activity are also potentially dangerous.
(5) Radiation
It has been found that women who undergo radiation therapies in their chest region at a young age have an increased risk of developing breast cancer in their later lives. Radiation therapy is generally prescribed for women with conditions like Hodgkin’s disease or non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. So women who have undergone such treatments may get breast cancer in their later years.
(6) Hormonal Imbalances There are several factors that can change the hormone balance of the body. Some of them are:- a) Beginning the menstrual cycle early, i.e. before the age of twelve years, b) Having the first pregnancy after the age of thirty years, c) Having no pregnancy at all, d) Having a late menopause. All these conditions can increase the level of estrogen in the body. This increases the risk of getting breast cancer to a mild extent. Apart from that women who take regular birth control pills, breast enhancement supplements, antidepressants and antihistamines and hormone modifying supplements stand at a higher risk to get breast cancer.
The above are the major risk factors for breast cancer. But since the study on breast cancer is not yet complete, the above is by no means a complete list. There are several other indications of breast cancer, like breast implant operations; but these have not yet been confirmed. The implants used in the earlier days were made of silicone gels. These were riskier in terms of breast cancer. However, nowadays the silicone gel implants have been replaced by saline implants. This has reduced the risk to a great extent.
It must be also noted that women have much higher chances of getting breast cancer than men. In fact, most people think that breast cancer is a disease that affects only women. This is not true. Men also get breast cancer, but to a much lesser degree than women. Also, age is a very important factor. The chances of getting breast cancer are much higher when the woman has crossed the age of 50 years.
By: Anna Hardy
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a largely unknown disease until today, despite the fact that it affects almost ten percent of the women above the age of forty years all over the world. The causes of this killer cancer are not known even after decades of research into it. Similarly it is unknown why some women have higher chances of getting breast cancer than others.
Though the causative factors are not known, some risk factors have been identified. There is no medical proof why these factors make the disease more probable, but this is a study of observation. In a vast cross-section of women with the observed risk factors, it has been found that the chances of getting breast cancer are very high.
The various risk factors for breast cancer are as follows:-
(1) Family History of Breast Cancer
If a near relative like a mother or a sister has had breast cancer, then there is a very high chance that the cancer will occur sometime in life. This propensity is observed even if far relatives such as cousins and aunts have had breast cancer, though the chances are lesser as the relatives are more removed. Even if a male relative has had breast cancer or prostate cancer, then there is a chance of getting breast cancer. This clearly indicates that breast cancer runs through family lines through inheritance. Certainly the chances are very high if more than one family member has had breast cancer.
(2) Personal History of Breast Cancer
If a woman has had breast cancer in the past, then there is a great chance that the breast cancer may recur. This is true even if the cancer had been removed in its benign stage itself. Sometimes the cancer cells spread into the nearby lymph. This makes a possibility that the cancer will occur in the opposite breast. In fact, women who have had cancer in one breast have 50 to 75% more chances of developing the cancer in the other breast.
(3) Diseases of the Breast
Several breast diseases can increase the chances of having breast cancer. Changes in the cells of the breasts can lead to atypical hyperplasia. This condition can cause a three to fourfold increase in the possibility of getting breast cancer in the later years. This risk also exists if the atypical hyperplasia has occurred in other women of the family. Another such condition is the benign breast tumor condition known as fibro adenoma. However, women with fibrocystic breasts generally do not have any added vulnerability to breast cancer. Yet, such conditions could make the breasts lumpy and hide the real tumors (if any) during mammography.
(4) Lifestyle
In today’s world, lifestyle is the single largest contributing factor for the proliferation of breast cancer among women. Several elements of the lifestyle have been found to be directly accordant with the prevalence of breast cancer. Smoking and alcoholism in women are among the chief factors. Even diet has been pointed out as an important risk factor. Women who consume a diet with more high-cholesterol fats in them have higher chances of breast cancer. At the same time leading a sedentary lifestyle without indulging much in physical activity are also potentially dangerous.
(5) Radiation
It has been found that women who undergo radiation therapies in their chest region at a young age have an increased risk of developing breast cancer in their later lives. Radiation therapy is generally prescribed for women with conditions like Hodgkin’s disease or non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. So women who have undergone such treatments may get breast cancer in their later years.
(6) Hormonal Imbalances There are several factors that can change the hormone balance of the body. Some of them are:- a) Beginning the menstrual cycle early, i.e. before the age of twelve years, b) Having the first pregnancy after the age of thirty years, c) Having no pregnancy at all, d) Having a late menopause. All these conditions can increase the level of estrogen in the body. This increases the risk of getting breast cancer to a mild extent. Apart from that women who take regular birth control pills, breast enhancement supplements, antidepressants and antihistamines and hormone modifying supplements stand at a higher risk to get breast cancer.
The above are the major risk factors for breast cancer. But since the study on breast cancer is not yet complete, the above is by no means a complete list. There are several other indications of breast cancer, like breast implant operations; but these have not yet been confirmed. The implants used in the earlier days were made of silicone gels. These were riskier in terms of breast cancer. However, nowadays the silicone gel implants have been replaced by saline implants. This has reduced the risk to a great extent.
It must be also noted that women have much higher chances of getting breast cancer than men. In fact, most people think that breast cancer is a disease that affects only women. This is not true. Men also get breast cancer, but to a much lesser degree than women. Also, age is a very important factor. The chances of getting breast cancer are much higher when the woman has crossed the age of 50 years.
By: Anna Hardy
Breast Cancer
How To Tackle Breast Cancer Successfully? (Breast Cancer)
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer could very well be placed at number one among all the killer diseases in women today. This type of cancer accounts for 26% of all the cancers in women. As such, it is largest killer cancer of all people in world, except maybe lung cancer. With so many women becoming victims of breast cancer each year, it should be thought that the medical fraternity must be having very detailed information about it. But that is hardly the case. Despite the millions of women dying each year, the causes, mechanisms and treatment of breast cancer still remains shrouded in mystery.
A simple layperson's definition of breast cancer is that it is an abnormal growth of a mass of cells known as a tumor anywhere within the breast. This growth is felt as a lumpy mass in the early stages of the cancer. This is when the woman must rush to the doctor. In fact any sudden inexplicable abnormality in the shape of the breast must be given medical attention immediately. There is no cause for alarm, as most changes could be perfectly harmless. But it is wise to rule out the possibility of blood cancer.
Another aspect of urgent medical attention is that breast cancer is fully treatable if it is seen to early. In all women suffering from breast cancer, the tumor will undergo an initial benign stage. At this stage the tumor has not started its abnormal multiplication. If it is removed when it is benign, the cancer does not spread, and in most cases, the woman gets totally cured of the disease and leads a normal life.
Nothing can be said about how long the tumor will remain benign. That depends on several inherent factors with the woman's physiology. The period of benign tumor is another part of breast cancer about which very little is known. But the presence of a tumor or such other symptoms is a strong indicator of occurrence of breast cancer. Apart from the tumor, there could be changes in the coloration of the skin over the breast. Other skin changes such as crimpling and folding could occur. The symptoms of breast cancer are also observed over the nipple and the areolas. The nipples could become inverted without reason, or there could be deformities in their shapes. The same could occur at the areolas, which are the dark circles around the nipples. In the later stages of the breast cancer, there could be a discharge of fluids from the nipples. This discharge could be pus-like, or it could even be a discharge of blood.
Even though the exact causes of breast cancer are not known, there are some women who are termed by the medical facilities as high-risk groups for the disease. Topping this list are the women who smoke and consume alcohol on a regular basis. Women who are obese due to lack of exercise or a physiological problem come next. Breast augmentation surgeries such as breast implants were once considered to be a primary reason for breast cancer. This was in the days silicone gel was used as the implanting material. However, today with the replacement of silicone gel with saline gel, the incidences of women getting cancer due to implants has become drastically less. It is also found that breast cancer cases run in families. Hence if a close relative has breast cancer, there is a great chance that the other women in the family could get it too. This indicates a hereditary factor influencing breast cancer.
Though the causes of breast cancer are unknown, there is a proliferation of the amount of literature about its prevention. Most of these methods are just hogwash, but there are many precautionary points that women must consider. Women must give high priority to losing their body weight, especially if there has been a case of breast cancer in the family. It is also a good idea to have a regular checkup. The checkup could also be done at home with finger pressure. With two fingers, the entire breast must be gradually touched, poking at points to check if there is any undue hardness felt.
Some women take drugs that contain estrogen in them. These could be for almost about anything - from increasing the sexual drive to increasing the amount of milk during lactation. But it must be remembered that any kind of hormonal disarray in the body could only make matters worse. It is not yet proven, but it can be assumed that an increase in the amount of estrogen in the blood could hasten the chances of blood cancer.
There are some foods that have been identified by dieticians to be good for preventing breast cancer. These include cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli and legumes. Even oranges, tomatoes and other citrus fruits could have some effects. Soy and its products are also good. A low carbohydrate diet is suggested. At the same time, it is needless to say that the woman must abstain from smoking and alcoholism.
Indulging in regular exercise and maintaining an overall positive outlook towards life could be important to remain away from breast cancer. Some alternative therapists believe that mental tensions could be one of the causes of breast cancer.
By: Anna Hardy
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer could very well be placed at number one among all the killer diseases in women today. This type of cancer accounts for 26% of all the cancers in women. As such, it is largest killer cancer of all people in world, except maybe lung cancer. With so many women becoming victims of breast cancer each year, it should be thought that the medical fraternity must be having very detailed information about it. But that is hardly the case. Despite the millions of women dying each year, the causes, mechanisms and treatment of breast cancer still remains shrouded in mystery.
A simple layperson's definition of breast cancer is that it is an abnormal growth of a mass of cells known as a tumor anywhere within the breast. This growth is felt as a lumpy mass in the early stages of the cancer. This is when the woman must rush to the doctor. In fact any sudden inexplicable abnormality in the shape of the breast must be given medical attention immediately. There is no cause for alarm, as most changes could be perfectly harmless. But it is wise to rule out the possibility of blood cancer.
Another aspect of urgent medical attention is that breast cancer is fully treatable if it is seen to early. In all women suffering from breast cancer, the tumor will undergo an initial benign stage. At this stage the tumor has not started its abnormal multiplication. If it is removed when it is benign, the cancer does not spread, and in most cases, the woman gets totally cured of the disease and leads a normal life.
Nothing can be said about how long the tumor will remain benign. That depends on several inherent factors with the woman's physiology. The period of benign tumor is another part of breast cancer about which very little is known. But the presence of a tumor or such other symptoms is a strong indicator of occurrence of breast cancer. Apart from the tumor, there could be changes in the coloration of the skin over the breast. Other skin changes such as crimpling and folding could occur. The symptoms of breast cancer are also observed over the nipple and the areolas. The nipples could become inverted without reason, or there could be deformities in their shapes. The same could occur at the areolas, which are the dark circles around the nipples. In the later stages of the breast cancer, there could be a discharge of fluids from the nipples. This discharge could be pus-like, or it could even be a discharge of blood.
Even though the exact causes of breast cancer are not known, there are some women who are termed by the medical facilities as high-risk groups for the disease. Topping this list are the women who smoke and consume alcohol on a regular basis. Women who are obese due to lack of exercise or a physiological problem come next. Breast augmentation surgeries such as breast implants were once considered to be a primary reason for breast cancer. This was in the days silicone gel was used as the implanting material. However, today with the replacement of silicone gel with saline gel, the incidences of women getting cancer due to implants has become drastically less. It is also found that breast cancer cases run in families. Hence if a close relative has breast cancer, there is a great chance that the other women in the family could get it too. This indicates a hereditary factor influencing breast cancer.
Though the causes of breast cancer are unknown, there is a proliferation of the amount of literature about its prevention. Most of these methods are just hogwash, but there are many precautionary points that women must consider. Women must give high priority to losing their body weight, especially if there has been a case of breast cancer in the family. It is also a good idea to have a regular checkup. The checkup could also be done at home with finger pressure. With two fingers, the entire breast must be gradually touched, poking at points to check if there is any undue hardness felt.
Some women take drugs that contain estrogen in them. These could be for almost about anything - from increasing the sexual drive to increasing the amount of milk during lactation. But it must be remembered that any kind of hormonal disarray in the body could only make matters worse. It is not yet proven, but it can be assumed that an increase in the amount of estrogen in the blood could hasten the chances of blood cancer.
There are some foods that have been identified by dieticians to be good for preventing breast cancer. These include cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli and legumes. Even oranges, tomatoes and other citrus fruits could have some effects. Soy and its products are also good. A low carbohydrate diet is suggested. At the same time, it is needless to say that the woman must abstain from smoking and alcoholism.
Indulging in regular exercise and maintaining an overall positive outlook towards life could be important to remain away from breast cancer. Some alternative therapists believe that mental tensions could be one of the causes of breast cancer.
By: Anna Hardy
Breast Cancer
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
The Link Between Breast Cancer And Underwire Bras (Breast Cancer)
Breast Cancer
Most women wear bras and do not give them a second thought; yet they have little idea that their bras could be far too tight. Many women are unaware that there is a big link between tight fitting bras and breast cancer due to an impaired lymphatic flow.
There has been striking evidence that women who wear restrictive bra's 24hours a day are 125 times more likely to develop breast cancer than women who do not wear bras at all. A woman that wears a bra more than 12 hours a day has a 1 in 7 chance of Breast Cancer; whereas a woman who wears one for less than 12 hours has a 1 out of 152 chance. A woman who rarely wears on has a 1 out of 168 chance.
Tight clothing inhibits the exact functioning of the lymphatic system (an internal network of vessels that flushes wastes and toxins from the body) which can lead to a build up of carcinogenic compounds in the constricted areas.
Other than not wearing a bra, alternative suggestions could be to replace the under-wired bra with a good sports bra (with a thick band around the bottom, but not too tight); the invisible support camisoles or yoga tops or simply removing the wire from your bra's.
It is recommended that women need breast movement to improve lymphatic circulation; exercise, a re-bounder, body brushing or massage are all consummate options for cleaning the breast of toxins that can arise from cellular metabolism.
The Doctor David Williams recommends a breast-massage method that involves a technique which will enhance lymphatic drainage from the breast, and succour considerably in the prevention of breast cancer"
"After removing the bra, lie on your bed on your back. Straighten one arm, and raise that arm over your head, allowing it to on the bed. (For our purposes, let's presume you raised your right arm first."
"Next, using the fingers of your left hand, stimulate the right nipple by rubbing and/or squeezing it, to trigger the release of the hormone, Oxytocin, and increase lymph drainage throughout the breast."
"After stimulating the nipple for a few minutes, very gently grasp the
lower portion of the breast. Using a sort of pumping action, gentle squeeze and release the breast, gradually moving your h up toward the outer portion of the breast and armpit area. Continue to "pump" higher into the armpit until
you can't go any further."
"The idea is not to rub the skin, but to pump the lymph from the breast, into the armpit, a then further up the lymph system, as you grasp small sections of the breast and armpit, and gently squeeze or pump the lymph out of that area."
"Continue this pumping procedure for about three minutes, and then switch
to the other breast (Remember to raise the opposite arm over your head). One three minute session on each side, is all it takes."
There are many causes to Breast Cancer, some still unfounded. But simple procedures and a common awareness to good breast health can go a long way in the fight against Breast Cancer.
By: Kirsten Jones
Breast Cancer
Most women wear bras and do not give them a second thought; yet they have little idea that their bras could be far too tight. Many women are unaware that there is a big link between tight fitting bras and breast cancer due to an impaired lymphatic flow.
There has been striking evidence that women who wear restrictive bra's 24hours a day are 125 times more likely to develop breast cancer than women who do not wear bras at all. A woman that wears a bra more than 12 hours a day has a 1 in 7 chance of Breast Cancer; whereas a woman who wears one for less than 12 hours has a 1 out of 152 chance. A woman who rarely wears on has a 1 out of 168 chance.
Tight clothing inhibits the exact functioning of the lymphatic system (an internal network of vessels that flushes wastes and toxins from the body) which can lead to a build up of carcinogenic compounds in the constricted areas.
Other than not wearing a bra, alternative suggestions could be to replace the under-wired bra with a good sports bra (with a thick band around the bottom, but not too tight); the invisible support camisoles or yoga tops or simply removing the wire from your bra's.
It is recommended that women need breast movement to improve lymphatic circulation; exercise, a re-bounder, body brushing or massage are all consummate options for cleaning the breast of toxins that can arise from cellular metabolism.
The Doctor David Williams recommends a breast-massage method that involves a technique which will enhance lymphatic drainage from the breast, and succour considerably in the prevention of breast cancer"
"After removing the bra, lie on your bed on your back. Straighten one arm, and raise that arm over your head, allowing it to on the bed. (For our purposes, let's presume you raised your right arm first."
"Next, using the fingers of your left hand, stimulate the right nipple by rubbing and/or squeezing it, to trigger the release of the hormone, Oxytocin, and increase lymph drainage throughout the breast."
"After stimulating the nipple for a few minutes, very gently grasp the
lower portion of the breast. Using a sort of pumping action, gentle squeeze and release the breast, gradually moving your h up toward the outer portion of the breast and armpit area. Continue to "pump" higher into the armpit until
you can't go any further."
"The idea is not to rub the skin, but to pump the lymph from the breast, into the armpit, a then further up the lymph system, as you grasp small sections of the breast and armpit, and gently squeeze or pump the lymph out of that area."
"Continue this pumping procedure for about three minutes, and then switch
to the other breast (Remember to raise the opposite arm over your head). One three minute session on each side, is all it takes."
There are many causes to Breast Cancer, some still unfounded. But simple procedures and a common awareness to good breast health can go a long way in the fight against Breast Cancer.
By: Kirsten Jones
Breast Cancer
Monday, May 25, 2009
Breast Cancer Signs - What All Women Should Know (Breast Cancer)
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer affects women of all ages. That is why it is important to know about breast cancer signs and what action should be taken if you experience any of them. While you may experience symptoms of breast cancer, only a doctor can make the diagnosis that for sure. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.
A lump, one which does not feel like the surrounding tissue, is often the first of several breast cancer signs. This is why it's important to do a regular self exam, because early detection is important. If you pay attention to breast cancer signs, you can have any symptoms investigated early on, and the sooner you are diagnosed, the more likely you are to triumph over this awful disease.
Besides a lump, some of the other breast cancer signs to look out for include changes in the sizes or shape of the breast, dimpling of the skin on the breast, or a nipple that is inverted or that has discharge coming out of it. Your doctor should be made aware of any such signs and changes as soon as reasonably possible.
Paget's disease of the breast, a disease that results in flakes on the nipple and redness of the skin, is often a leading indicator of breast cancer. As Paget's disease becomes more advanced, more symptoms become apparent. These include increased sensitivity, itching skin, burning sensations, and general pain. If you have encountered any or all of these symptoms, you should talk to your doctor so that you can be properly examined to determine if you have this disease.
Sometimes other symptoms can signal breast cancer. If you have lost weight quickly and there is no reason for it, that may be a symptom. Other symptoms are unexplained fever and chills lasting more than a few days, pain in the joints or bones, and jaundice. Sometimes there are neurological symptoms as well. So all of these are things you should watch out for.
You must remember that most symptoms that coincide with breast cancer don't turn out to really be breat cancer. Although you have to take your symptoms seriously, you should not panic. What you need to do is to see your doctor, give him or her the chance to evaluate your symptoms, find out exactly what is causing your symptoms. All you have to do is get yourself checked out.
Breast cancer can strike at any age. Therefore, knowing the breast cancer signs and symptoms is very important. One of the best factors in beating breast cancer is early detection. One of the best methods of detection is the monthly self exam. One of the things that you must take note of is if your breast changes size and or shape. One thing to keep in mind is that most symptoms of breast cancer don't end up being breast cancer.
By: Stephan Grindley
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer affects women of all ages. That is why it is important to know about breast cancer signs and what action should be taken if you experience any of them. While you may experience symptoms of breast cancer, only a doctor can make the diagnosis that for sure. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.
A lump, one which does not feel like the surrounding tissue, is often the first of several breast cancer signs. This is why it's important to do a regular self exam, because early detection is important. If you pay attention to breast cancer signs, you can have any symptoms investigated early on, and the sooner you are diagnosed, the more likely you are to triumph over this awful disease.
Besides a lump, some of the other breast cancer signs to look out for include changes in the sizes or shape of the breast, dimpling of the skin on the breast, or a nipple that is inverted or that has discharge coming out of it. Your doctor should be made aware of any such signs and changes as soon as reasonably possible.
Paget's disease of the breast, a disease that results in flakes on the nipple and redness of the skin, is often a leading indicator of breast cancer. As Paget's disease becomes more advanced, more symptoms become apparent. These include increased sensitivity, itching skin, burning sensations, and general pain. If you have encountered any or all of these symptoms, you should talk to your doctor so that you can be properly examined to determine if you have this disease.
Sometimes other symptoms can signal breast cancer. If you have lost weight quickly and there is no reason for it, that may be a symptom. Other symptoms are unexplained fever and chills lasting more than a few days, pain in the joints or bones, and jaundice. Sometimes there are neurological symptoms as well. So all of these are things you should watch out for.
You must remember that most symptoms that coincide with breast cancer don't turn out to really be breat cancer. Although you have to take your symptoms seriously, you should not panic. What you need to do is to see your doctor, give him or her the chance to evaluate your symptoms, find out exactly what is causing your symptoms. All you have to do is get yourself checked out.
Breast cancer can strike at any age. Therefore, knowing the breast cancer signs and symptoms is very important. One of the best factors in beating breast cancer is early detection. One of the best methods of detection is the monthly self exam. One of the things that you must take note of is if your breast changes size and or shape. One thing to keep in mind is that most symptoms of breast cancer don't end up being breast cancer.
By: Stephan Grindley
Breast Cancer
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Modern Breast Cancer Treatment Methods (Breast Cancer)
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer has become a more common disease among women in modern times. Once known as an older women's disease, women in their 20's are now experiencing more cases of it. Statistics reveal that the average breast cancer risk is 14%. This climbs by 32% for smokers. The incidence of breast cancer could also be inherited but is likely more too environmental factors and lifestyle. Studies show that two genes BRCA1 and BRCA2 should normally prevent cancer cell growth but when there are abnormalities in these genes, they can become the cause of higher breast cancer risk. Combine this with the present toxic environment and multiple carcinogens and the higher rates are easier to understand.
Typical breast cancer symptoms are the formation of lumps, swelling or skin changes in the breast. However, a cyst or an infection could also exhibit the same symptoms. Regular self-examination of the breast and an annual mammogram would help in early diagnosis of breast cancer. If there is a doubt and concern that breast cancer may be starting, further scans like ultrasound, MRI, CAT, and PET scans should be taken.
Breast cancer treatment depends on several factors, like the size and stage of the tumor, as well as the lymph node and hormone receptor status. Breast cancer is classified as ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS), invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), and invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC).
Modern technology has ushered in several treatment options. They are surgery, radiation, hormonal therapy, and chemotherapy. These treatments could be done singly or in a combination of more than one. Normal breast cancer surgery, called lumpectomy, is done where only the tumor in the breast is removed. Normally, radiation therapy is applied as a follow-up measure to ensure that the remaining breast tissues are hopefully cleansed of cancer cells. In mastectomy, the entire breast is removed and in most cases followed up by radiation and/or chemotherapy. This is because the current understanding of cancer is that they really don't know the cause or the extent so they recommend this in hopes that it gets all the cancerous cells.
In persons having invasive breast cancer, surgery and radiation might be supplemented by an axillary lymph node dissection. Further hormonal therapy or chemotherapy - or both - might be needed in a few breast cancer patients. Radiation therapy is an effective process for the destruction of cancer cells that might remain after surgery. Radiation therapy reduces the risk of recurrence significantly. The side effects of radiation therapy are dependent on the type, duration and health of the patient. Dietary changes and nutritional supplements are highly recommended.
If the breast cancer is hormone-receptor-positive, then hormonal therapy is a primary method of breast cancer treatment. Hormonal therapy stops the hormone known as estrogen to stimulate breast cancer cell growth. In recent times, aromatase inhibitors are preferred to tamoxifen, particularly for breast cancer treatment of post-menopausal women who have hormone-receptive-positive breast cancer. Chemotherapy is resorted to mainly to eliminate any cancer cells that could have spread from the breast to other parts of the body. However, the chemotherapy treatment regimen would differ with each individual. It is very important to be regular in the treatment plan and continue with follow-up checkups to avoid recurrence, as well as a change in lifestyle.
By: Darren Dunner
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer has become a more common disease among women in modern times. Once known as an older women's disease, women in their 20's are now experiencing more cases of it. Statistics reveal that the average breast cancer risk is 14%. This climbs by 32% for smokers. The incidence of breast cancer could also be inherited but is likely more too environmental factors and lifestyle. Studies show that two genes BRCA1 and BRCA2 should normally prevent cancer cell growth but when there are abnormalities in these genes, they can become the cause of higher breast cancer risk. Combine this with the present toxic environment and multiple carcinogens and the higher rates are easier to understand.
Typical breast cancer symptoms are the formation of lumps, swelling or skin changes in the breast. However, a cyst or an infection could also exhibit the same symptoms. Regular self-examination of the breast and an annual mammogram would help in early diagnosis of breast cancer. If there is a doubt and concern that breast cancer may be starting, further scans like ultrasound, MRI, CAT, and PET scans should be taken.
Breast cancer treatment depends on several factors, like the size and stage of the tumor, as well as the lymph node and hormone receptor status. Breast cancer is classified as ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS), invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), and invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC).
Modern technology has ushered in several treatment options. They are surgery, radiation, hormonal therapy, and chemotherapy. These treatments could be done singly or in a combination of more than one. Normal breast cancer surgery, called lumpectomy, is done where only the tumor in the breast is removed. Normally, radiation therapy is applied as a follow-up measure to ensure that the remaining breast tissues are hopefully cleansed of cancer cells. In mastectomy, the entire breast is removed and in most cases followed up by radiation and/or chemotherapy. This is because the current understanding of cancer is that they really don't know the cause or the extent so they recommend this in hopes that it gets all the cancerous cells.
In persons having invasive breast cancer, surgery and radiation might be supplemented by an axillary lymph node dissection. Further hormonal therapy or chemotherapy - or both - might be needed in a few breast cancer patients. Radiation therapy is an effective process for the destruction of cancer cells that might remain after surgery. Radiation therapy reduces the risk of recurrence significantly. The side effects of radiation therapy are dependent on the type, duration and health of the patient. Dietary changes and nutritional supplements are highly recommended.
If the breast cancer is hormone-receptor-positive, then hormonal therapy is a primary method of breast cancer treatment. Hormonal therapy stops the hormone known as estrogen to stimulate breast cancer cell growth. In recent times, aromatase inhibitors are preferred to tamoxifen, particularly for breast cancer treatment of post-menopausal women who have hormone-receptive-positive breast cancer. Chemotherapy is resorted to mainly to eliminate any cancer cells that could have spread from the breast to other parts of the body. However, the chemotherapy treatment regimen would differ with each individual. It is very important to be regular in the treatment plan and continue with follow-up checkups to avoid recurrence, as well as a change in lifestyle.
By: Darren Dunner
Breast Cancer
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Breast Cancer Recurrence Often Involves Extensive Tests (Breast Cancer)
Breast Cancer
A widespread ailment that leads to the deaths of millions of women all over the world is breast cancer. It not only causes physical pain and possible death but also hits at the very feeling of feminism. Women who undergo breast removal surgery to get rid of malignant lumps in their breasts feel agonized and traumatized because an essential physical feature resplendent in its feminine glory is lost. Breast removal is inevitable in most cases where there is breast cancer recurrence.
Due to the persistence of the negative effects of cancer cells on the immunity of cells of the body, relapse should not be regarded as an abnormality. Body cells will still be susceptible to a return of the cancerous infection even after a recovery period. The most common time frame for any recurrence is within three to five years from the first medication.
When diagnosed early, most common cancers including breast cancer can be treated successfully. Early detection is necessary for early diagnosis and treatment. Early treatment is necessary for preventing the spread or further pathologic development of the cancer. Nuclear medicine can be combined with antibiotics for treatment of the cancer cells.
It is shocking but unfortunate that many women who have suffered from and been treated for breast cancer once do not recognize the same early warning signs of recurrence once some time has elapsed. It is therefore important that in order to prevent breast cancer recurrence, women need to be vigilant for the same indicators that suggest breast cancer. A second occurrence of breast cancer tends to be more damaging than the first occurrence of the disease.
If you find unusual hardening of fatty tissue in either breast, it's a reason for alarm. If this hardened tissue is found in the same breast which was previously given radiation treatment, it means breast cancer recurrence. In such a case, you must hurry and see the oncologist who had treated you in the past.
An oncologist may occasionally recommend after breast cancer has been diagnosed that you undergo a selection of tests in order to eliminate the possibility of recurrence of breast cancer. A mammogram and a physical examination by a gynecologist are frequently part of such tests.
A breast cancer recurrence may necessitate removal of the breast. If you notice unusual hardening of fatty tissue in any breast, it is a cause for alarm. If the hardened tissue is in the same breast that was previously administered radiation treatment, it indicates a recurrence. In such cases, you must immediately visit the oncologist who had previously treated you. An oncologist may occasionally recommend after breast cancer has been diagnosed that you undergo a selection of tests in order to eliminate the possibility of recurrence of breast cancer. A mammogram and a physical examination by a gynecologist are frequently part of such tests.
By: Stephan Grindley
Breast Cancer
A widespread ailment that leads to the deaths of millions of women all over the world is breast cancer. It not only causes physical pain and possible death but also hits at the very feeling of feminism. Women who undergo breast removal surgery to get rid of malignant lumps in their breasts feel agonized and traumatized because an essential physical feature resplendent in its feminine glory is lost. Breast removal is inevitable in most cases where there is breast cancer recurrence.
Due to the persistence of the negative effects of cancer cells on the immunity of cells of the body, relapse should not be regarded as an abnormality. Body cells will still be susceptible to a return of the cancerous infection even after a recovery period. The most common time frame for any recurrence is within three to five years from the first medication.
When diagnosed early, most common cancers including breast cancer can be treated successfully. Early detection is necessary for early diagnosis and treatment. Early treatment is necessary for preventing the spread or further pathologic development of the cancer. Nuclear medicine can be combined with antibiotics for treatment of the cancer cells.
It is shocking but unfortunate that many women who have suffered from and been treated for breast cancer once do not recognize the same early warning signs of recurrence once some time has elapsed. It is therefore important that in order to prevent breast cancer recurrence, women need to be vigilant for the same indicators that suggest breast cancer. A second occurrence of breast cancer tends to be more damaging than the first occurrence of the disease.
If you find unusual hardening of fatty tissue in either breast, it's a reason for alarm. If this hardened tissue is found in the same breast which was previously given radiation treatment, it means breast cancer recurrence. In such a case, you must hurry and see the oncologist who had treated you in the past.
An oncologist may occasionally recommend after breast cancer has been diagnosed that you undergo a selection of tests in order to eliminate the possibility of recurrence of breast cancer. A mammogram and a physical examination by a gynecologist are frequently part of such tests.
A breast cancer recurrence may necessitate removal of the breast. If you notice unusual hardening of fatty tissue in any breast, it is a cause for alarm. If the hardened tissue is in the same breast that was previously administered radiation treatment, it indicates a recurrence. In such cases, you must immediately visit the oncologist who had previously treated you. An oncologist may occasionally recommend after breast cancer has been diagnosed that you undergo a selection of tests in order to eliminate the possibility of recurrence of breast cancer. A mammogram and a physical examination by a gynecologist are frequently part of such tests.
By: Stephan Grindley
Breast Cancer
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Methods to Assist You - Prevent Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer
Are you aware of steps you can take to help prevent breast cancer? Breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer in women around the world and the leading cause of cancer death. Breast cancer is the most common among white women, although women of all races and even men are diagnosed with the disease around the world. While this disease is very prevalent amongst women, with early detection, women can have a an increased survival rate. The best treatment for breast cancer is to prevent its development.
One of the most crucial steps that you can take to prevent breast cancer is to maintain a healthy weight through proper nutrition. It is recommended for women to maintain a healthy weight. Women should strive for a BMI index under 25. Women who are substantially overweight have an increased incidence of breast cancer development. To help prevent breast cancer, maintain an better than average body mass index and consistently. Another crucial action to assist women prevent breast cancer is a diet that is full of in valuable nutrients.
One of the most promising vitamins promoting healthy breast tissue and aiding women to prevent breast cancer when added into the daily diet is Vitamin A. This vitamin has shown the ability to prevent breast cancer cell advancement when ingested in both natural and synthetic forms. Foods that are rich in Vitamin A include . Red Clover is thought to be a great breast cancer prevention vitamin. Red Clover is a common plant with leafy stems that grows up to 16 inches tall and is a member of the pea phyllum. Isoflavins are the valuable that cause the red clover herbs a powerful breast cancer prevention aid. Turmeric has also demonstrated to have breast cancer prevention signs. Many of the most preventative foods are full of in antioxidants which assist cells to attack free radical damage. Many fruits and vegetables that are rich in antioxidants which can easily be added to the daily diet.
Women should also eat a diet that is full of in the better kinds of fats like Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids. Also, it is recommended to limit the intake of simple carbohydrates and to include a multivitamin daily.
One of the most crucial actions that women can take to assist you prevent breast cancer is to reduce and stop. Smoking is one of the biggest risk factors in the development of breast cancer around the world. The moderation of alcohol is also an important step to assist women reduce the development of breast cancer.
In addition to a lifestyle and a healthy weight, women should to perform monthly breast self exams to find a breast lump early. The early detection of a cancerous breast lump can assist in an early diagnosis and an optimistic treatment plan. Women over the age of 40 need to receive scheduled, performed by their doctors. Mammograms use digital imaging to detect abnormalities in your.
Some breast cancer causes that still remain under discussion are hormone therapy treatments and the prolonged use of birth control pills. Extended exposure to pharmacologic estrogens is not recommended unless suggested from your health care professional. Check with your health care professional if you have been concerned about the mentioned potential risks and the development of breast cancer.
Breast cancer is a common disease throughout the world and affects as many as 1 in 10 women from around the world and the prevalence of diagnosis is on the rise. While there are options available, it is suggested to engage in advantageous to prevent the progression or development of the disease within the body. Through recommended lifestyle management and the addition of valuable nutritional supplements, you can help your body to prevent the development of breast cancer.
By: Alma Peterson
Breast Cancer
Are you aware of steps you can take to help prevent breast cancer? Breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer in women around the world and the leading cause of cancer death. Breast cancer is the most common among white women, although women of all races and even men are diagnosed with the disease around the world. While this disease is very prevalent amongst women, with early detection, women can have a an increased survival rate. The best treatment for breast cancer is to prevent its development.
One of the most crucial steps that you can take to prevent breast cancer is to maintain a healthy weight through proper nutrition. It is recommended for women to maintain a healthy weight. Women should strive for a BMI index under 25. Women who are substantially overweight have an increased incidence of breast cancer development. To help prevent breast cancer, maintain an better than average body mass index and consistently. Another crucial action to assist women prevent breast cancer is a diet that is full of in valuable nutrients.
One of the most promising vitamins promoting healthy breast tissue and aiding women to prevent breast cancer when added into the daily diet is Vitamin A. This vitamin has shown the ability to prevent breast cancer cell advancement when ingested in both natural and synthetic forms. Foods that are rich in Vitamin A include . Red Clover is thought to be a great breast cancer prevention vitamin. Red Clover is a common plant with leafy stems that grows up to 16 inches tall and is a member of the pea phyllum. Isoflavins are the valuable that cause the red clover herbs a powerful breast cancer prevention aid. Turmeric has also demonstrated to have breast cancer prevention signs. Many of the most preventative foods are full of in antioxidants which assist cells to attack free radical damage. Many fruits and vegetables that are rich in antioxidants which can easily be added to the daily diet.
Women should also eat a diet that is full of in the better kinds of fats like Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids. Also, it is recommended to limit the intake of simple carbohydrates and to include a multivitamin daily.
One of the most crucial actions that women can take to assist you prevent breast cancer is to reduce and stop. Smoking is one of the biggest risk factors in the development of breast cancer around the world. The moderation of alcohol is also an important step to assist women reduce the development of breast cancer.
In addition to a lifestyle and a healthy weight, women should to perform monthly breast self exams to find a breast lump early. The early detection of a cancerous breast lump can assist in an early diagnosis and an optimistic treatment plan. Women over the age of 40 need to receive scheduled, performed by their doctors. Mammograms use digital imaging to detect abnormalities in your.
Some breast cancer causes that still remain under discussion are hormone therapy treatments and the prolonged use of birth control pills. Extended exposure to pharmacologic estrogens is not recommended unless suggested from your health care professional. Check with your health care professional if you have been concerned about the mentioned potential risks and the development of breast cancer.
Breast cancer is a common disease throughout the world and affects as many as 1 in 10 women from around the world and the prevalence of diagnosis is on the rise. While there are options available, it is suggested to engage in advantageous to prevent the progression or development of the disease within the body. Through recommended lifestyle management and the addition of valuable nutritional supplements, you can help your body to prevent the development of breast cancer.
By: Alma Peterson
Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer in Women - Know the Facts
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer should be a major concern for all women today since it is the single most common type of cancer in women. There is about a 15% chance of developing breast cancer by the age of 90 if you are a woman and have a full, healthy lifestyle. This percentage may not sound like a lot, but it is one of the highest as far as cancer risks go. You can lower this risk by having a breast cancer test frequently.
Have a Basic Mammogram Regularly
The basic mammogram is the most effective test available even though it can be very uncomfortable for some women. During the time of your test, keep thinking, “This may save my life.” It will help you get through it.
You do not want to wait for symptoms to develop before getting your mammogram, as symptoms don’t usually become clear until the cancer is already in its later stages of growth.
Usually, if the cancer has hit the later stages it is more difficult to treat and more likely has spread to other parts of the body. You may feel like a mammogram is too unpleasant, but terminal cancer is without a doubt worse than the test. Please make the breast cancer test part of your annual check-up.
Self-Examination for Breast Cancer
Also, as soon as you reach the puberty age, it is a good idea to carry out your own breast cancer test, which you can do on a regular basis in the privacy of your own home. A pamphlet describing how this should be done can be picked up at your local doctor’s office or health department. Most breast cancer occurs in women over 40, but there are several cases found in young teen girls each year.
Cancer does not have a certain age or time when it occurs. You just need to check yourself regularly for any lumps or other unusual occurrences. If any are found, go to your doctor immediately.
Breast Cancer Risks
Your chances of developing breast cancer are slightly higher if there is a history of such cancer in your family. So, if you don’t have anyone in your immediate family that has had breast cancer, this is very good news. But unfortunately, many families do have a history. With or without a family history, you still should have regular checkups.
Most people do not realize that there is a 1% occurrence of breast cancer in men. But there are still many more men that are never diagnosed with breast cancer, but they do have it.
Keep up with your self-examination and your regular mammogram since your chances of survival are much greater if the cancer is found early.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM)
Also, remember that October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) and is observed all over the world thanks to National Breast Cancer Foundation. Breast cancer month has been extremely successful in making more women aware of the signs of breast cancer. More women than ever are now getting their annual mammogram, and this has contributed to a greater survival rate for cancer patients.
Many women have lost their lives to this devastating disease, and this is the main reason why efforts must be continued to teach all women young and old about breast cancer and the risk factors.
Be a true friend or family member and help educate your loved ones about breast cancer and early detection. You may save their lives.
By: Jean Pardue
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer should be a major concern for all women today since it is the single most common type of cancer in women. There is about a 15% chance of developing breast cancer by the age of 90 if you are a woman and have a full, healthy lifestyle. This percentage may not sound like a lot, but it is one of the highest as far as cancer risks go. You can lower this risk by having a breast cancer test frequently.
Have a Basic Mammogram Regularly
The basic mammogram is the most effective test available even though it can be very uncomfortable for some women. During the time of your test, keep thinking, “This may save my life.” It will help you get through it.
You do not want to wait for symptoms to develop before getting your mammogram, as symptoms don’t usually become clear until the cancer is already in its later stages of growth.
Usually, if the cancer has hit the later stages it is more difficult to treat and more likely has spread to other parts of the body. You may feel like a mammogram is too unpleasant, but terminal cancer is without a doubt worse than the test. Please make the breast cancer test part of your annual check-up.
Self-Examination for Breast Cancer
Also, as soon as you reach the puberty age, it is a good idea to carry out your own breast cancer test, which you can do on a regular basis in the privacy of your own home. A pamphlet describing how this should be done can be picked up at your local doctor’s office or health department. Most breast cancer occurs in women over 40, but there are several cases found in young teen girls each year.
Cancer does not have a certain age or time when it occurs. You just need to check yourself regularly for any lumps or other unusual occurrences. If any are found, go to your doctor immediately.
Breast Cancer Risks
Your chances of developing breast cancer are slightly higher if there is a history of such cancer in your family. So, if you don’t have anyone in your immediate family that has had breast cancer, this is very good news. But unfortunately, many families do have a history. With or without a family history, you still should have regular checkups.
Most people do not realize that there is a 1% occurrence of breast cancer in men. But there are still many more men that are never diagnosed with breast cancer, but they do have it.
Keep up with your self-examination and your regular mammogram since your chances of survival are much greater if the cancer is found early.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM)
Also, remember that October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) and is observed all over the world thanks to National Breast Cancer Foundation. Breast cancer month has been extremely successful in making more women aware of the signs of breast cancer. More women than ever are now getting their annual mammogram, and this has contributed to a greater survival rate for cancer patients.
Many women have lost their lives to this devastating disease, and this is the main reason why efforts must be continued to teach all women young and old about breast cancer and the risk factors.
Be a true friend or family member and help educate your loved ones about breast cancer and early detection. You may save their lives.
By: Jean Pardue
Breast Cancer
Wednesday, May 06, 2009
Breast Cancer - Detection, Treatments and Prevention
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is the number one disease that women in the United States fear the most, and for compelling reasons. It is the leading cause of death among women between 40 and 55 years of age and is the second overall cause of death among women (exceeded only by lung cancer). Unfortunately, it is also on the rise worldwide. According to the American Cancer Society, this year about 175,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer and about 43,300 deaths from breast cancer will occur among women in the USA.
Breast cancer is a rapid, uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in one or both breasts. It is life-threatening because it quickly spreads to vital organs.
The years since World War II have seen a tremendous increase in the incidence of breast cancer, so efforts on identifying its causes often focus on changes in our society that have occurred since then, such as the increased use of pesticides, the advent of birth control pills, changes in diet, and different styles and materials in women's clothing. Researchers have identified lots of risk factors (such as age, diet, cigarette smoking, alcohol intake, and family history), but the specific causes of breast cancer remain elusive.
Cancers are divided into different groups, called stages, based on whether the cancer is invasive or non-invasive, the size of the tumor, how many lymph nodes are involved, and whether there is spread to other parts of the body. The stages identify tumor types that have a similar outlook and are treated in a similar way. There are five main stages of breast cancer. If breast cancer is detected in its early stages, the 5 year survival rate is greater than 95%.
Breast cancer is more easily treated and often curable if it is found early. Monthly breast self-examinations should begin at age 20. Recommended screening methods include breast self-examination and mammography. A mammogram is the most effective way to find breast cancer early, up to 2 years before the lump is even large enough to feel. Sometimes a doctor will discover a lump in a woman's breast during a routine examination or a patient might come to the doctor with questions about a lump she found. If clinical examination and mammography both reveal benign findings, biopsy may be unnecessary.
Treatment for breast cancer usually depends on the type of cancer and whether the cancer has spread outside of the breast to the rest of the body. Treatment options include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and endocrine/anti-hormone therapy. Treatment usually starts with anticancer drugs, or chemotherapy. The prognosis (chance of recovery) and treatment options depend on the stage of the cancer, the size of the tumor and whether it is in the breast only or has spread to lymph nodes or other places in the body. It's very important to diagnose inflammatory breast cancer quickly so that treatment can begin. After surgery, radiation treatment is used to try to kill any remaining cancer cells.
Possible surgical treatments are either a mastectomy (complete removal of the breast) or breast conserving therapy. Even if a mastectomy is needed (about 30-40% of patients need this), building a new breast, called reconstruction, offers a natural looking breast replacement. Breast-conserving surgery (which removes only some of your breast) often works just as well as a mastectomy (which removes all of your breast).
Mammograms can detect tumors in the earliest stages, however, a standard mammogram can miss 15-20% of cancerous tumors. Heightened awareness of breast cancer risk in the past decades has led to an increase in the number of women undergoing mammography for screening, leading to detection of cancers in earlier stages and a resultant improvement in survival rates.
Research suggests that routine exercise may help prevent breast cancer. No one knows the exact causes of breast cancer, but research has shown that women with certain risk factors are more likely than others to develop the disease. Researchers at Stanford University and the National Institutes of Health, for example, found that high concentrations of the IGF-1 hormone stimulate cancer cell growth.
Up to 10 percent of breast cancer patients eventually suffer a recurrence in the other breast. Simple mammograms often miss small tumors, the researchers from the American College of Radiology Imaging Network found, while MRIs rarely miss them.
The cause of breast cancer is unknown. Early detection of breast cancer is therefore vital as it increases the chances of successful treatment. The chance of a woman in her 40s developing breast cancer is about one in 70, whereas the risk of a woman in her 80s developing breast cancer is one in 25. When breast cancer is confined to the breast the five year survival rate is over 95%. For women aged 40-49, the evidence that screening mammography reduces mortality from breast cancer is weaker, and the absolute benefit of mammography is smaller, than it is for older women.
The good news is that breast cancer is a disease that can be treated and cured. More than 90 out of 100 women whose breast cancer is found early will be cured. Cancer found at a later stage, however, may be less likely to be cured. While there is still no cure for the disease, the experts and leading organizations such as the American Cancer Society, Susan G. Doctors and scientists are working on finding cures for all types of breast cancer. Finding and treating breast cancer early is the best way to increase your chances of survival and cure.
By: Tim D Wright
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is the number one disease that women in the United States fear the most, and for compelling reasons. It is the leading cause of death among women between 40 and 55 years of age and is the second overall cause of death among women (exceeded only by lung cancer). Unfortunately, it is also on the rise worldwide. According to the American Cancer Society, this year about 175,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer and about 43,300 deaths from breast cancer will occur among women in the USA.
Breast cancer is a rapid, uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in one or both breasts. It is life-threatening because it quickly spreads to vital organs.
The years since World War II have seen a tremendous increase in the incidence of breast cancer, so efforts on identifying its causes often focus on changes in our society that have occurred since then, such as the increased use of pesticides, the advent of birth control pills, changes in diet, and different styles and materials in women's clothing. Researchers have identified lots of risk factors (such as age, diet, cigarette smoking, alcohol intake, and family history), but the specific causes of breast cancer remain elusive.
Cancers are divided into different groups, called stages, based on whether the cancer is invasive or non-invasive, the size of the tumor, how many lymph nodes are involved, and whether there is spread to other parts of the body. The stages identify tumor types that have a similar outlook and are treated in a similar way. There are five main stages of breast cancer. If breast cancer is detected in its early stages, the 5 year survival rate is greater than 95%.
Breast cancer is more easily treated and often curable if it is found early. Monthly breast self-examinations should begin at age 20. Recommended screening methods include breast self-examination and mammography. A mammogram is the most effective way to find breast cancer early, up to 2 years before the lump is even large enough to feel. Sometimes a doctor will discover a lump in a woman's breast during a routine examination or a patient might come to the doctor with questions about a lump she found. If clinical examination and mammography both reveal benign findings, biopsy may be unnecessary.
Treatment for breast cancer usually depends on the type of cancer and whether the cancer has spread outside of the breast to the rest of the body. Treatment options include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and endocrine/anti-hormone therapy. Treatment usually starts with anticancer drugs, or chemotherapy. The prognosis (chance of recovery) and treatment options depend on the stage of the cancer, the size of the tumor and whether it is in the breast only or has spread to lymph nodes or other places in the body. It's very important to diagnose inflammatory breast cancer quickly so that treatment can begin. After surgery, radiation treatment is used to try to kill any remaining cancer cells.
Possible surgical treatments are either a mastectomy (complete removal of the breast) or breast conserving therapy. Even if a mastectomy is needed (about 30-40% of patients need this), building a new breast, called reconstruction, offers a natural looking breast replacement. Breast-conserving surgery (which removes only some of your breast) often works just as well as a mastectomy (which removes all of your breast).
Mammograms can detect tumors in the earliest stages, however, a standard mammogram can miss 15-20% of cancerous tumors. Heightened awareness of breast cancer risk in the past decades has led to an increase in the number of women undergoing mammography for screening, leading to detection of cancers in earlier stages and a resultant improvement in survival rates.
Research suggests that routine exercise may help prevent breast cancer. No one knows the exact causes of breast cancer, but research has shown that women with certain risk factors are more likely than others to develop the disease. Researchers at Stanford University and the National Institutes of Health, for example, found that high concentrations of the IGF-1 hormone stimulate cancer cell growth.
Up to 10 percent of breast cancer patients eventually suffer a recurrence in the other breast. Simple mammograms often miss small tumors, the researchers from the American College of Radiology Imaging Network found, while MRIs rarely miss them.
The cause of breast cancer is unknown. Early detection of breast cancer is therefore vital as it increases the chances of successful treatment. The chance of a woman in her 40s developing breast cancer is about one in 70, whereas the risk of a woman in her 80s developing breast cancer is one in 25. When breast cancer is confined to the breast the five year survival rate is over 95%. For women aged 40-49, the evidence that screening mammography reduces mortality from breast cancer is weaker, and the absolute benefit of mammography is smaller, than it is for older women.
The good news is that breast cancer is a disease that can be treated and cured. More than 90 out of 100 women whose breast cancer is found early will be cured. Cancer found at a later stage, however, may be less likely to be cured. While there is still no cure for the disease, the experts and leading organizations such as the American Cancer Society, Susan G. Doctors and scientists are working on finding cures for all types of breast cancer. Finding and treating breast cancer early is the best way to increase your chances of survival and cure.
By: Tim D Wright
Breast Cancer
Saturday, May 02, 2009
Understanding Metastatic Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer
A diagnosis of breast cancer can be enormously overwhelming and frightening for anyone. But when the diagnosis is that of metastatic breast cancer, the fear can be staggering. This type of cancer is defined as breast cancer that has spread from the breast - the original site of the cancer - to other parts of the body such as the bones, lungs, or liver. The treatment may be devastating to a newly diagnosed patient; but new advances in treatment can help manage symptoms and increase longevity.
When cancer cells break away from the originally affected site, and spread to other parts of the body through the blood or lymphatic system, this is referred to as metastatic cancer. When the original cancer site - or primary site, as it is referred to by physicians - is the breast - and cancer cells spread from this location - this becomes known as metastatic breast cancer. The cancer that has moved from the breast and developed in other locations becomes known as the secondary cancer.
The treatment options for this cancer are the same as treating any other cancer. But treatment must be aggressive based on the stage of this particular disease. Because the definition of metastatic breast cancer is cancer that has spread from the breast to other parts of the body, treatment must be speedy and assertive in order to stop the spread of the cells to any further locations in the body.
Treatment plans may include surgery wherein the cancerous growths are removed from the body; radiation during which affected cells are attacked with pinpoint x-ray technology; and chemotherapy which exposes the patient to a course of intravenous drug therapy designed to stop the growth of cancer cells. In most cases, however, a combination of several therapies will be used in order to achieve the greatest chance of success. There are also experimental and holistic therapies that patients often try in conjunction with other therapies and under the guidance of their doctor. As the needs of each patient vary, so do the treatment plans.
The most common secondary locations are the lungs, brain, liver, and bones. Metastatic breast cancer is certainly not confined to these locations and not all may be affected; these are statistically the most frequently affected areas. However it is not defined as cancer that has spread to any places close to the breast such as skin, muscles underneath or around the breast, or bones nearby the primary cancer location.
While a frightening diagnosis, it does not have to mean a death sentence. Armed with the most up-to-date research and treatment options, patients can act as advocates for their own health, making educated decisions regarding the course of their treatment. As research continues concerning the newest and best ways to treat metastatic breast cancer, sufferers and their families will continue to see advances in medical treatment that will foster health and save lives.
By:Riley Hendersen
Breast Cancer
A diagnosis of breast cancer can be enormously overwhelming and frightening for anyone. But when the diagnosis is that of metastatic breast cancer, the fear can be staggering. This type of cancer is defined as breast cancer that has spread from the breast - the original site of the cancer - to other parts of the body such as the bones, lungs, or liver. The treatment may be devastating to a newly diagnosed patient; but new advances in treatment can help manage symptoms and increase longevity.
When cancer cells break away from the originally affected site, and spread to other parts of the body through the blood or lymphatic system, this is referred to as metastatic cancer. When the original cancer site - or primary site, as it is referred to by physicians - is the breast - and cancer cells spread from this location - this becomes known as metastatic breast cancer. The cancer that has moved from the breast and developed in other locations becomes known as the secondary cancer.
The treatment options for this cancer are the same as treating any other cancer. But treatment must be aggressive based on the stage of this particular disease. Because the definition of metastatic breast cancer is cancer that has spread from the breast to other parts of the body, treatment must be speedy and assertive in order to stop the spread of the cells to any further locations in the body.
Treatment plans may include surgery wherein the cancerous growths are removed from the body; radiation during which affected cells are attacked with pinpoint x-ray technology; and chemotherapy which exposes the patient to a course of intravenous drug therapy designed to stop the growth of cancer cells. In most cases, however, a combination of several therapies will be used in order to achieve the greatest chance of success. There are also experimental and holistic therapies that patients often try in conjunction with other therapies and under the guidance of their doctor. As the needs of each patient vary, so do the treatment plans.
The most common secondary locations are the lungs, brain, liver, and bones. Metastatic breast cancer is certainly not confined to these locations and not all may be affected; these are statistically the most frequently affected areas. However it is not defined as cancer that has spread to any places close to the breast such as skin, muscles underneath or around the breast, or bones nearby the primary cancer location.
While a frightening diagnosis, it does not have to mean a death sentence. Armed with the most up-to-date research and treatment options, patients can act as advocates for their own health, making educated decisions regarding the course of their treatment. As research continues concerning the newest and best ways to treat metastatic breast cancer, sufferers and their families will continue to see advances in medical treatment that will foster health and save lives.
By:Riley Hendersen
Breast Cancer
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