Understanding Breast Cancer Causes: The Keys to Prevent the Disease

The causes of breast cancer and its prevention are probably the two major questions of every woman who are concerned about the disease. There are many myths surrounding this disease that are mistaken for facts. Some people believe that it cannot be prevented, and others believe that we cannot detect it through self examination. Those mistaken beliefs lead to confusion and even worsen the condition of the person suffering from breast cancer. To prevent it from occurring in the first place, we must know the causes and the risk factors. Gender and age are the two biggest risk factors. This type of cancer is more common in women over 50 years of age (around 65-70% of all cases). Race also plays a significant role; in the US, white women have a greater risk to develop the cancer than African American women.

If a woman has a history of cancer in one breast, the likelihood for the cancer to develop in other breast is increased by three to four times. Women who have a family history of breast cancer are also at greater risk. You should also be aware of any genetic changes and mutations that are passed along in your family. The disease is linked to the abnormal genes BRCA 1 and BRCA 2. Thus, women who inherit those abnormal genes, especially BRCA 1, should be more aware since they tend to develop the cancer at early age. Additionally, they are also at higher risk to develop ovarian cancer.

Hormonal factors also play a major role, too. Women whose period starts at early age (such as 11 years old or younger) and women who experience late menopause (such as 55 years old and older), are more likely to develop the cancer. Women who give birth before the age of 30 may be protected from breast cancer. On the contrary, women who never give birth at all are at higher risk.Besides child-bearing, breastfeeding is an important factor as well. Mothers who breastfeed their infants are less susceptible to cancer than those who do not.

Other lethal diseases such as diabetes, coronary heart disease, and stroke are often linked to poor lifestyle and dietary habits. Breast cancer is not an exception. Women who consume alcohol regularly are at higher risk, depending on the amount consumed. On the other hand, it is believed that regular exercise may reduce the risk, although there is no definitive guide on how much exercise one should do. The risk is also higher in women who receive radiation therapy in the upper body to treat particular diseases before the age of 30, and those who are overweight.

Understanding the causes of breast cancer is very critical. It can help women to prevent the disease from ever happening. Do not let breast cancer take your whole life.

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The 6 Most Common Diagnostic Techniques For Breast Cancer in America

The United States has the highest rate of breast cancer in the world. Breast cancer in America is even indicated as the second most common cancer, after skin cancer. Since 1990, death rates have decreased by almost 30%. Nevertheless, it still causes a lot of death, not just in America, but also worldwide. In 2007, it was expected to cause 40,910 deaths in the US alone, which accounts for almost 2% of all death cases.

There are several risk factors for breast cancer in America which would be different from one area to another. Most of the cases in America are caused by the following factors: older age, menstruating at an early age, older age at first birth or have never given birth, a personal history of breast related diseases (both benign and malignant), radiation therapy on the chest/breast, estrogen or progesterone replacement therapy, or consumption of alcoholic beverages.

However, breast cancer in America seems to have a better prognosis and treatment system nowadays. Before treating the cancer patients, doctors should perform several tests or examinations on the patients, such as:

1. Physical exam and history: Physical examination is done to the whole body to check the general signs of health. A history of the patient's past illnesses and habits could be a reference for the doctor about how to treat the cancer if the patient is indeed suffering from the disease.

2. Mammography: This diagnostic technique utilizes low-energy X-rays to check for any abnormal masses in the breast.

3. Ultrasonography: After a mammogram, it is possible for your doctor to perform ultrasonography as well. This is a diagnostic imaging technique that uses ultrasound (sound waves with the frequency greater than 20,000 Hz).

4. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Like ultrasonography, MRI is also a complementary diagnostic technique. With this method, your doctor can determine which stage your cancer is at right now. Compared to X-ray, it works better at imaging augmented breasts.

5. Blood chemistry studies: A sample of your blood will be taken and tested for any anomalies. When someone has breast cancer, the breast tissue will release certain substances into the bloodstream at unusual amounts (either lower or higher than normal).

6. Biopsy: This is a test that involves the removal of a small part of the breast tissue for examination. The tissue sample is then observed under a microscope to check for any signs of cancer. There are four types of biopsies: excisional biopsy, incisional biopsy, core biopsy, and fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy.

The diagnostic techniques mentioned above are the most common screening methods for detecting breast cancer in America. For more information about this disease, please visit our website.

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7 FAQs About Breast Cancer

1. What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that originates from breast tissue. Malignant tumor itself is a group of cancer cells which invade the surrounding tissues; it can also spread to other parts of the body which are not directly related to the affected area.

2. How does it occur?

This disease is caused by the mutation or abnormal changes in our genes which trigger the overgrowth of cancerous cells. What normally happens in our body is that when old cells die, they are replaced with new ones. If a genetic mutation occurs, the cells rapidly grow and multiply out of control to form a tumor. The malignant tumor is what we call cancer.

3. What are the warning signs?

One of the most common symptoms of the disease is the presence of a lump in the breast. Abnormal lumps can also be found in the lymph nodes of the armpit. Other symptoms include the change in size, shape, and tenderness of the breast, inversion of the nipple, skin dimpling, and bloody or clear discharge from the nipple.

4. I have breast cancer history in my family. Can I inherit the disease?

Every woman or man can be affected by the disease regardless his or her family history. Although indeed family history increase your risk of getting the cancer, in fact, only 10-15% of all breast cancer cases are believed to be caused by inherited gene mutation. About 80% of women who are diagnosed with the disease do not have family history of the disease.

5. What factors can increase my risk of getting the cancer?

The disease may be caused by many factors including sex, age, race, as well as childbearing and breastfeeding. Women aged 55 or older or those who give birth for the first time after the age of 30 have higher chance of getting the cancer. In the U.S., Caucasian women are also more prone than African American women. On the other hand, women from Native American, Asian, and Hispanic origins have lower risk.

6. Does it also occur in men?

The disease can also occur in men, although very rarely. However, breast cancer cases in men tend to be more serious due to late diagnosis.

7. I am diagnosed with this cancer recently. Can it be cured? What are my odds of surviving?

The chance of survival from the disease depends greatly on what stage it is at. The earlier it is detected, the more likely it can be cured. Thanks to modern medical technology, new diagnostic techniques offer more accurate diagnosis. A patient may undergo treatments such as hormone therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery depending on the type and stage of the cancer.

Breast cancer is the second most common as well as the second most lethal cancer in women. Visit our website to get more details about the cancer as well as pictures on breast cancer.

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Breast Cancer Detection And Treatment

One of the most feared diseases by women is breast cancer. Although it occurs mainly in women, in some rare cases it occurs in men as well. Many women are very afraid of this disease as it might cause them to lose their breasts. Even worse, it can also be deadly, like any other cancer cases. It is believed that all women have the possibility to suffer from this disease if they mistreat their body. There are, however, several things that you can do to minimize the side effects of breast cancer.

The simplest thing that you can do by yourself to detect breast cancer is by feeling your breasts. This method is called Breast Self-Examination. Usually, after you have finished your monthly period, the lump that is potential to be the cell of breast cancer is more touchable. You just have to feel your breast for any lumps. If you find one, do not panic. It is normal for you to be wary but you should keep in mind that it is somehow curable depending on how bad the cancer cell is. You can go to a doctor to for a mammogram or ultrasound procedure in order to find out if you really do have breast cancer, find out the severity of the cancer and to know what future actions you should undertake in order to cure it.

After you have done the check-up, usually your doctor will give you two options. To remove the cancer cell, you can either undergo a surgery or take chemotherapy sessions. Your doctor will most likely suggest you to take chemo. You will be advised for a surgery only if the condition of the cancer cell in your breast is too severe. Many people fear chemotherapy because of its potential side effects, such as hair loss. Even so, it is proven effective by many people in treating cancer.

Besides chemotherapy and surgery, another option is to try alternative medication. However, this treatment won't work effectively by itself. It can be used to complement chemotherapy sessions. It is intended to minimize the side effects of chemo that most women fear of. Some of the methods of alternative medication include acupuncture therapy, taking herbal drinks like ginseng, and even healthy diet. All of these can be quite helpful to help patients cope with their chemo sessions that can be quite stressful.

In short, although breast cancer is lethal, it is curable. What matters the most is that you need to detect the symptoms as early as possible because it increases the chances for a successful treatment.

More to learn about Breast Cancer and Skin Cancer, you can find at our website!

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Stay Healthy, Mom

Husbands have to suffer a lot when their wives are out on a vacation for a day or two. This is when they realize that their wives manage their houses, kids, offices and everything incredibly well. A Woman has to be fit as a fiddle round the clock right from making early breakfast for her son to late night dinner for her husband. All this requires a lot of hard work, patience and of course strength. Be it a Sunday or a Monday, she doesn't get any time to sit and think about her health. Women have proved their immense talent in every field. They try to be perfect mothers, wives, colleagues, employees and friends but if all of this is at stake of their health then this is of no use. Health comes first but for women it comes very first.

If they are over thirty, special attention needs to be given to their health, nutrition and weaknesses. Breast Cancer it is becoming quite frequent in women these days. The symptoms may vary from swelling to skin changes. Other symptoms can be dimpling, breast pain, nipple pain, nipple discharge, redness or thickening of breast skin or any kind of lump. Any lump which can be felt might not be cancer. If they feel that the lump is spread non-uniformly then they should go for cancer examination. The lump might be tender and small and might not be felt. Regular check up might help detecting it. One thing which must be remembered is that cancer can be killed if detected at early stages.

Prevention:
A healthy diet and regular exercise are necessary not only for maintaining overall health but also to prevent breast cancer. An aerobic activity for decent 30-60 minutes, fruits, vegetables and whole grain diet with low fat, limited red meat consumption and no alcohol are a few steps which would put you at lower risks of having breast cancer. These tips if followed regularly would help you remain healthy for the rest of your life.

A woman who has had full term pregnancy before age of 30 or if she has fed her children for over 12 months is at lower risk than a woman who has not. The key to avoid this cancer is staying healthy and fit. If a woman is at risk of having cancer based on above criteria she should do Breast Self Examination every month and should go to doctor for regular check up. Tamoxifen and Raloxifen are two drugs to prevent breast cancer. A doctor must be consulted before their use to know about the risks and benefits they have.

If you are a woman, do follow these tips to stay healthy, fit and smart. You must remember that there are a lot of lives connected with you. Falling sick and getting tired are not in your dictionary. If you are a husband, take good care of her and ensure that she is regular in her check-ups. If you are a son, make her feel happy and proud of you because you know she is important to you. Keep telling her 'stay healthy mom'.

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Fish Oil and the Fight Against Breast Cancer

There is little, if any, guidance for consumers who wish to use supplements to help in disease prevention and treatment especially, when it comes to the fight against cancer and its prevention. Studies have repeatedly found cancer prevention properties in different types of foods and the nutrients that they contain. Several schools of Epidemiology have found consistent proof that diets high in fruits and vegetables can prevent certain types of cancer and reduce the incidence in other types. The newest evidence shows that fish oil can also provide some protection against mouth, pharynx, lung, stomach, esophageal, colon, rectum, bladder and breast cancers.

With more than 200,000 diagnosed breast cancer cases per year and 40,000 or more deaths from this disease, women deserve the best nutritional information available in order to stave off this killer. Mainstream medicine is often quick to dismiss nutritional avenues for disease prevention but in the case of breast and most other cancers, even the mainstream medical community is looking to the foods we eat to help in this fight. As more physicians accept the beneficial part of nutrition in the fight against breast cancer, supplements like fish oil will gain a wider foothold and the benefits can be seen in a wider segment of the population. In a study called VITAL (Vitamin and Lifestyle Cohort Study) those respondents who took fish oil on a regular basis (counted as 3 or more times per week) were shown to have a 32% reduction in breast cancers.

The women who took part in the study were all between the ages of 50 and 76 and had never shown signs of breast cancer. They completed questionnaires concerning their lifestyle and supplements taken and the group was followed over a period of 9 years. During the follow-up period 880 women were diagnosed with breast cancer out of over 35,000 participating women. The women who had been taking the fish oil supplements containing high levels of EPA and DHA (greater than 1 gram per day) showed a one-third reduction in the incidence of cancers. The American Association for Cancer Research scored this as a significant finding for which they were not prepared. Out of the total number of supplements taken by the participants, the fish oil showed some of the most promising benefits.

A number of natural medicine publications have picked up on this and have begun to investigate other studies looking for links to a reduction in breast cancers. Over the years fish oil has been shown to have some excellent health benefits including protecting the heart (heart disease is the number 2 killer among women), reducing the effects of aging (such as memory loss, Alzheimer's, dementia, and depression), and strengthening bones and joints. The important nutrient found in fish oil is EPA and DHA. These two molecules are two that must be gotten from your diet as the body cannot synthesize these from any thing else. An alternate essential acid is ALA but in order for the body to use it, it must first be converted to DHA and the body is not efficient at this process.

The best dietary sources of fish oil come from cold-water fish normally referred to as fatty fish. These include salmon, tuna, mackerel, cod, herring, sardines, and anchovies. Chia seeds, sunflower seeds, kelp, and olive are excellent vegetable sources of these essential fatty acids. However, many people find it easier to take a fish oil supplement that provides a high dose of EPA and DHA (greater than 1 gram per day) in purified capsule form to avoid the possibility of any heavy metal contamination. Quality sources of fish oil and omega-3 supplements are available from many retailers.

George M. Espinoza is an industrial engineering technician who has worked in the development of packaging and preservation equipment for the past 8 years. He is a certified natural healer and works with communities who are medically under served. He focuses on prevention of disease in his community work. Omega-3 Benefits

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Breast Cancer DNA Testing: Preparation, Steps, Result and Risks

Breast cancer is caused by various risk factors, and one of them is the mutation of two genes called BRCA1 and BRCA2. People who inherit these genes from either their mother or father are more prone to the disease than those who don't. Thus it is essential for you undergo BRCA gene test if you are likely to inherit these genes. This test is a blood test to check for any mutations in the DNA. From the breast cancer DNA testing, you will know whether you indeed inherit the mutation and the estimation of your risk of developing the cancer.Remember, early detection is the key to successful treatment.

Preparation

If you have been identified as a candidate for this test, there are some preparations that you need to do before the taking the test. First, you have to make an appointment with a genetic counselor to discuss about the test, such as the risks, benefits and limitations. He or she will then examine your family and medical history, estimate the risks, and summarize your options. Before meeting the counselor, it is important to get more info on your family's medical history as well as your personal medical history. Write down some questions related to the test and you can also ask your family member to accompany you during the consultation session. After the consultation, you have the right to decide whether to take the test or not.

Steps of The Breast Cancer DNA Testing

A doctor will take a sample of your blood for testing. The sample will be sent to the laboratory to analyze the DNA and this process will take several weeks. When you have received the test result, meet your counselor to discuss about it.

Expected Results

There are three possible test results, namely positive, negative or uncertain. If your test result is positive, it means that there is a harmful mutation in the genes so that you have a higher risk of developing breast cancer. To reduce the risk, you can increase the frequency of screening (e.g. have clinical breast exam every 6 months instead of once a year), try using oral contraceptives, take preventive medication (chemoprevention), or undergo preventive surgery. If the test result is negative, it means that there is no BRCA gene mutation. However, it is still difficult to draw a conclusion about your risk of developing the cancer. A negative result doesn't mean you are not at risk of having nonhereditary breast cancer.

Risks

When you undergo a BRCA gene mutation test, the risks that you will face are related mostly to financial, emotional or social implications. If your test shows positive result, you may feel anxiety, sadness, anger or other negative feelings. It can also create a strain on family relationship due to the familial genetic mutation. It is also possible that the result can lead to insurance discrimination.

Breast cancer is a disease that you can't ignore. For more information regarding breast cancer DNA testing, do visit our website.

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Breast Cancer Treatment: Mammograms, Ultrasound or Breast Self Exam?

While some of the factors are unavoidable, am not saying that it's not treatable, the goal of the discussion is to diagnose and detect breast cancer as early as possible, and to give you the best achievable option against the disease. If breast tumors caused signs early in their growth, they would be easier to be detect and treated successfully. But tumors can grow and spread for years without causing any unusual symptoms. Mammograms, clinical breast exams (CBE) which are done by a doctor or a nurse and breast self exams (BSE) are the three ways to detect tumors.

Experts recommend the following guidelines for finding breast cancer early:
Women who are 50 and above should undergo mammograms every year and should continue to do so for as long as they are in good health.
Women who are 40 and above should have a mammogram every two years.
Women in their 20s and 30s should have a clinical breast exam by a health professional at least every three years.
Every woman who is in teens or post-menstruating should know how their breasts normally look and feel and report any breast change promptly to their health care provider. Breast Self Exam (BSE) is an option for women starting in their 20s.
Women with greater risks of breast cancer including women with a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer and women who were treated for Hodgkin disease should undergo ultrasound and MRI.

Together, these methods offer the best chance of finding breast cancer early. Typically, the earlier a cancer is detected and diagnosed, the most successful the treatment, thus enhancing the survival rate. A mammogram can often identify breast lumps that may be cancerous before physical symptoms develop; nevertheless, some cancers that are not detectable on a mammogram may still be felt by yourself or your nurse. You may not even want to know if a tumor is growing inside you, however, by doing your breast self exam regularly, you get to know how your breasts normally look and feel and you can more readily detect any signs or symptoms if a change occurs.

In the early stages of some types of abnormalities, the cancerous cells make a cluster and there is an increase in blood flow to the area. This increase in the number of small vessels may create a dark shadow or dark area when you go through your monthly screening. It's not only mammograms or ultrasound or breast clinical screening but all these techniques should make up your strategy against breast cancer.

Breastlight is the world first and only handy device that allows you to look inside your breasts. It helps you not only in detecting malignant breast tumors but also in making you confident and breast aware. For more information about breast awareness and breastlight visit our website http://www.breastlight.com/

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Alternative Healing For Cancer - On-Going Checkups

Whatever cancer treatment we have decided upon, once the initial treatment is over we still have to have regular health check-ups to see how we are going.

Let us look at some of the methods of testing on offer and compare safety aspects and/or accuracy.

Generally doctors offer Ultrasounds, Mammograms, CT Scans or MRI's.

Ultrasound imaging, or sonography is a non-invasive scan and does not use ionizing radiation (X-rays). Part of the body is exposed to high-frequency sound waves in order to produce pictures of the inside of the body. These images help doctors diagnose and treat medical conditions.

Although there are no known harmful effects on humans, ultrasound, for various reasons is not suitable for testing on the bowel, or on large patients and has difficulty penetrating bone, therefore is not a definitive test for the detection of cancer.

A mammogram uses low doses of radiation to scan breasts and is a diagnostic tool that screens the breast for possible problems and for hidden lumps. This test is highly promoted for the early detection and therefore prevention of breast cancer however, there are some downsides to mammograms, apart from the radiation exposure.

If a woman has high breast density then the mammogram can appear normal even though breast cancer is present producing a false-negative result. Mammograms miss up to approximately 20% of breast cancers that are present at screening.

On the other hand false-positive results can occur when a radiologist believes a mammogram is abnormal but no cancer is actually present.

Significant stress can result from both of these miss-diagnoses, indicating that mammograms are far from ideal as a screening tool.

With CT scanning, numerous x ray beams and a set of electronic x ray detectors rotate around you. It is often the preferred method for diagnosing many different cancers, since the image allows a physician to confirm the presence of a tumour and measure its size, precise location and the extent of the tumour's involvement with nearby tissue. This is a good test but the body is exposed to radiation with this test and it is expensive.

An MRI scan uses magnetic fields, radio waves and a computer to take pictures of the inside of your body, but does not use radiation like the other scans mentioned. This is also a good test but very expensive.

Often, mammograms, CT Scans and MRI's are used when symptoms are already there, like an unexplained lump, but what about a safe, non-invasive test for extremely early detection of breast cancer, fibrocystic disease, an infection or a vascular disease and other cancers before a lump or other symptoms appear?

Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging (DITI) is such a test. DITI detects subtle physiologic changes in your body. It uses no radiation, is painless and has no contact with the body. This test allows the practitioner to visualize changes in skin surface temperature by using an infrared scanning device which converts infrared radiation emitted from the skin's surface into electrical impulses which can be seen in colour on a computer monitor.

The benefit of this test is that it can alert you to breast disease (and other disorders) much earlier than the usual self examination, doctor examination or any of the aforementioned tests.

DITI can offer protection from cancer developing by detecting and monitoring abnormal physiology years before you, your doctor, mammograms, X-ray, ultrasound, CT scans or MRI's are able to pick up anything.

This 15 minute test is valuable for alerting your GP or specialist to the possibility of underlying disease, meaning that preventative measures can be taken to stop any cancer before it develops.

If we understand the options available, it will enable us to make informed decisions regarding our on-going health status which is critical following a bout with cancer.

I am a cancer survivor. I used natural alternative remedies to beat my cancer and continue to explore all alternative options regarding healing cancer and on-going maintenance after treatment.

For more information Click Here

My Story Here

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Perfume Could Cure Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a vicious and tragic disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Even if someone does not have cancer, the effects of it can be felt regardless. Most people have a friend, family member, or neighbor whose life has been touched in some way by the disease.

That's why Delville, a famous perfumer, decided to take a stand against breast cancer by developing a perfume to cure breast cancer. The perfume, called Promise Me, donates a substantial amount from each purchase to Susan G. Komen for the Cure, a well-known and innovative breast cancer research and treatment facility.

Each purchase of a Promise Me perfume allows the foundation to get a considerable donation, and the money will be used to -

Fund research into destroying cancer cellsEducate men and women about how to cope with cancerDiagnose the disease in its earlier stagesTreat cancer patients and give them a second chance at life

Promise Me is an amazing idea that allows average people to donate to the cause while still getting something for themselves in return.

If you're like me, you're probably wondering what a perfume to cure breast cancer smells like. Promise Me has multiple, complex layers of scent that incorporate delicate rosewood and orchid laced with zestier scents like mandarin.

Delville dedicated himself to creating a perfume that represented life, joy, and hope. Promise Me is his attempt to bring breast cancer awareness to the forefront of world attention.

Thankfully, Promise Me has caught on with the public and is doing well enough. However, there is the potential to do a lot more for cancer patients in the future. That's why public participation in a program like Promise Me is so important.

Did you know that breast cancer occurs in men as well? Yes, it is true, and it is much more common than one might think. Do yourself and your loved ones a favor. Get yourself screened. Early detection is key. And while you're at it, ask your friends to do it too.

One of the best ways I've seen to make the process easier is to make a day out of it. Go to breakfast with your friends in the morning, all of you go have a screening, then spend the rest of the day having fun!

With simple steps like this, the terrible disease can usually be avoided all together. But for those who were not so fortunate, Promise Me is a ray of hope that gives patients a second chance at life. What better way to donate than to receive something for yourself in addition to the satisfaction of knowing that you can save someone's life.

You can support a perfume to cure breast cancer.

Promise Me, a perfume designed with the sole purpose of curing breast cancer, is the best way to donate to breast cancer research. I've seen some amazing ideas come out of the Promise Me campaign, and one simple purchase is all it takes to save the life of a cancer patient.

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Learn The Causes Of Breast Cancer To Stay Away From The Disease

So far, scientists haven't found the exact causes of breast cancer. However, they have identified some risk factors that can increase the likelihood that a person will develop this disease. Learning the causes of breast cancer is essential to help you stay away from the disease. If you think that you are at risk, you should consult your doctor immediately for examination. Here are the risk factors that you should know:

1. Gender: This is considered as the biggest risk factor of breast cancer. This disease commonly occurs in women and that's why being a woman means that you have a higher chance of suffering from this disease.

2. Age: This cancer can happen at any age. However, it is uncommon in women younger than 35 unless they have family history of this cancer. Mostly, breast cancer occurs in women at the age of 50 and this disease is the main causes of death of women between 40-45 years old.

3. Personal history of cancer: A woman who suffered from breast cancer before has a greater chance of developing new cancer in the future. She may develop cancer in the same breast or in the other breast. The risk refers to the development of new tumor and not the return of the previous cancer.

4. Genetic Causes: Family history also plays an important role; you should check both your mother's side and your father's side of the family. Mother, daughter and sister are considered as the first-degree relatives and they contribute higher risk of this cancer. Meanwhile, second-degree relatives like aunt and grandmother also increase cancer risk. The risk will also be higher if you have a relative who develops this cancer in both breasts and suffers from the disease at a young age. About 5-10% breast cancer cases are caused by genetic factors but unfortunately testing for the genes is very expensive. If you are interested in testing your genes, you had better discuss with your health-care provider first.

5. Hormonal Causes: There are many types of hormonal changes that may influence the development of the disease. Women who start their periods at younger age and those who haven't got any children before the age of 30 have higher risk of suffering from this cancer. Women in postmenopausal stage also have an increased risk of the cancer.

6. Lifestyle and Dietary Causes: Poor dietary habits and obesity are other risk factors of the disease. Women who consume alcohol also have higher chance of having this cancer. The risk will increase when someone consumes large amounts of alcohol every day.

Let us help you identify the causes of breast cancer so that you can develop a healthier lifestyle from today.

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Breast Cancer Awareness - Make A Difference With Ethically Made Promotional Products

Have you or a loved one ever been affected by breast cancer? This terrible disease affects one out of eight women in America, and the most recommended way to survive a diagnosis is early detection through self breast exams and mammograms. This is the main objective behind the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Charities and organizations rally around the cause to bring awareness to women about cancer prevention and early detection with the goal of saving lives and finding a cure.

The pink ribbon is the most recognized symbol of breast cancer awareness and serves as a reminder of how this disease affects our society. It is easy to pin on a pink ribbon or purchase related items to support these efforts. But you can also make a difference by organizing a fundraiser with custom made products where the proceeds are donated to cancer research and prevention. If you own a company or are involved in an organization, this is a great way to get involved. There are many product options available, and with a little creativity you can contribute to breast cancer awareness in a unique way.

When looking for breast cancer promotional item ideas, take it one step further by considering the source of the products and how they have been manufactured. What good is it to buy products that have been made in unsafe working conditions or with unfriendly environmental toxins that contribute to cancer? This type of consumption defeats the purpose of what cancer awareness is trying to achieve.

Fortunately there are ethical products available that can be customized for any promotional purpose including breast cancer. For example, there are pink Union Made t-shirts or sweatshirts that can be embroidered with your brand or logo. There are organic hats, tote bags and other accessories that can be made in pink. Other options include American made pink office supplies, sporting goods like pink golf clubs, pink drink-ware, or key chains that can all be customized with your own designs or message.

When you choose Union Made breast cancer promotional products, you will also be supporting the rights of workers to ensure they are receiving fair wages and have greater access to medical benefits and job security. When you choose organic promotional products, you are supporting eco-friendly causes and reducing the toxic load on the environment. When you choose American Made items, you are also supporting local workers while boosting the economy.

If fighting breast cancer is something that you are passionate about, you can take action to educate the public about health and cancer prevention measures in many creative ways. With the use of ethically made cancer awareness products, your support goes beyond the surface of this cause and you have the opportunity to do good on multiple levels.

For more information about ethically made promotional products and how you can make a difference in spreading breast cancer awareness, please visit Ethix Merch, a comprehensive resource guide for finding American made, union made and eco-friendly clothing and products for more great ideas.

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Recognizing The First Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is not a type of disease that comes without early signs. However, a lot of women fail to identify the first symptoms of breast cancer. As a result, when they find out about the existence of this cancer, it has already reached an advanced state (stage III or IV). Thus, women need to recognize the early signs of this cancer so that the chance of recovery is high. The early detection of the cancer may also prevent further damage to breast tissue. However, the worst thing that can happen besides death is that the affected breast needs to be removed. This normally happens when the cancer has reached stage IV.

The first symptoms of breast cancer usually do not cause any pain. One of the most common early symptoms is a hard lump in the breast. If it remains even after menstruation, you need to consult your doctor about it, because it might be malignant or cancerous. Women need to pay more attention to the upper outer quarter of the breast since about 50% of lumps are found in that area. If you feel a hard mass in your armpit, it might be a sign that the tumor has spread to the lymph nodes. This means that it has reached a more advanced state. The lump can also change the look of the affected breast. It may appear asymmetric or larger than the other breast and you may also notice some dimpling or puckering. The nipple of the affected breast can appear scaly or retracted. The texture of the breast and nipple may also feel like orange skin (this symptom is also known as peu d'orange). A change in color and texture of the areola and nipple discharge (with or without blood) may also indicate the disease. The not so obvious signs are soreness of the breast and nipple, swelling of one arm and weight loss. Women experiencing those three symptoms often mistake them for symptoms of other, not so serious diseases.

Over 80% of breast cancer cases are discovered through self examination and therefore it is extremely important for women to perform breast self examination (BSE) every month, particularly a week after menstruation. If you discover any unusual lumps, you need to consult your doctor immediately. Additionally, women aged 40 and over are advised to get a mammogram every 1 or 2 years. By doing so, if abnormal cells are present, your doctor can do further examination to determine whether the cells are cancerous or not. If they are cancerous, then you will be prescribed the appropriate treatment. If the cancer is detected early, you have a better chance of successful treatment.

Identifying the first symptoms of breast cancer is critical. A lot of lives can be saved if women are more aware about the symptoms that can indicate this disease.

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Different Types of Breast Reconstruction

There are more than 200,000 cases of breast cancer each year in the United States alone. Most of these women have never thought they would have to remove either a portion or the entirety of the breast. This may seem overwhelming, but you should know that you do have options when you have a mastectomy. The breast can be reconstructed and the surgery won't be noticeable after the procedure is complete.

One type of breast reconstruction that you might consider is having breast implants put in immediately after a mastectomy. If you go with this option, the breast implant is lodged behind the chest's pectoral muscle. Your surgeon will probably use a permanent implant, which would depend on the breast skin quality following the mastectomy and how large the implant is going to be. Once you're on your way to full recovery, which might be after a month or two after the surgery, your doctor may suggest a secondary procedure to adjust the contour of your breast shape. This additional procedure is simply done to adjust breast symmetry and can be performed on an outpatient basis.

A second option when thinking about a breast reconstruction is to get a breast implant using a staged approach. This process can begin immediately following a mastectomy, or it can be delayed as to give yourself more time to analyze your options. In the staged approached, a tissue expanding device is placed along the chest wall under the pectoral muscle. This acts as a space saver in which the permanent implant will eventually be placed into. A small amount of saline is injected into the expander. After a few weeks of healing, the expansion process can start to begin where the doctor will inject more saline into the expanding device through a fill-port located in the device. This port is reached by using a needle through the skin. After several months of expansion, the female will then have an operation to exchange the expansion device for a permanent breast implant.

There is a third option in the TRAM flap procedure. With this procedure, tissue is removed from the abdomen and moved up to the chest in order to create new breast tissues. This will create a more natural feeling breast as you are using your own natural tissue, and you may even achieve better symmetry using this approach. There are a few disadvantages however, one of which is a scar that can run across your entire abdomen from hip to hip. You may also experience weaknesses in your abdominal wall, bulges or even a hernia.

No matter what breast reconstruction you choose in the end, you have to make sure you get a clear comparison among all three methods by speaking with a qualified physician so that you will be comfortable with your final decision on how to go about your breast cancer surgery.

Dallas Breast Cancer Surgery can be a little scary. If you would like more information on breast cancer surgery, or some fresh ideas on working with your Dallas breast cancer surgeon, then come back and visit our site.

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Understanding Breast Cancer Causes: The Keys to Prevent the Disease

The causes of breast cancer and its prevention are probably the two major questions of every woman who are concerned about the disease. There are many myths surrounding this disease that are mistaken for facts. Some people believe that it cannot be prevented, and others believe that we cannot detect it through self examination. Those mistaken beliefs lead to confusion and even worsen the condition of the person suffering from breast cancer. To prevent it from occurring in the first place, we must know the causes and the risk factors. Gender and age are the two biggest risk factors. This type of cancer is more common in women over 50 years of age (around 65-70% of all cases). Race also plays a significant role; in the US, white women have a greater risk to develop the cancer than African American women.

If a woman has a history of cancer in one breast, the likelihood for the cancer to develop in other breast is increased by three to four times. Women who have a family history of breast cancer are also at greater risk. You should also be aware of any genetic changes and mutations that are passed along in your family. The disease is linked to the abnormal genes BRCA 1 and BRCA 2. Thus, women who inherit those abnormal genes, especially BRCA 1, should be more aware since they tend to develop the cancer at early age. Additionally, they are also at higher risk to develop ovarian cancer.

Hormonal factors also play a major role, too. Women whose period starts at early age (such as 11 years old or younger) and women who experience late menopause (such as 55 years old and older), are more likely to develop the cancer. Women who give birth before the age of 30 may be protected from breast cancer. On the contrary, women who never give birth at all are at higher risk.Besides child-bearing, breastfeeding is an important factor as well. Mothers who breastfeed their infants are less susceptible to cancer than those who do not.

Other lethal diseases such as diabetes, coronary heart disease, and stroke are often linked to poor lifestyle and dietary habits. Breast cancer is not an exception. Women who consume alcohol regularly are at higher risk, depending on the amount consumed. On the other hand, it is believed that regular exercise may reduce the risk, although there is no definitive guide on how much exercise one should do. The risk is also higher in women who receive radiation therapy in the upper body to treat particular diseases before the age of 30, and those who are overweight.

Understanding the causes of breast cancer is very critical. It can help women to prevent the disease from ever happening. Do not let breast cancer take your whole life.

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Breast Cancer - Its Signs and Symptoms

If you are concerned that you might have cancer of the breast, it is highly significant that you must have a medical check-up immediately by your physician. Letting your physician know and examine your breast will surely alleviate your stress. If something uncommon is discovered, you will be able to attend to it speedily.

Most of the time, there are no outbound symptoms of breast cancer that you will be able to see. But in cases that something uncommon is discovered, you may feel lumps in your breasts, a thickening region is noted, or dimpling of the breast. Swelling and redness of the breasts and nipples are also symptoms of a breast cancer. Generally, it does not directly imply that you possess breast cancer even if you have these symptoms. Always think back that lumps of the breast mostly tends to be not cancerous. Just consult your doctor about it to make sure everything is fine.

One symptom of a breast cancer is a mass that you can feel. A breast mass may be painless and laborious is more like to be cancer. But occasionally, breast cancer mass can be fine and round in texture. So it is very significant to see a doctor right away if there are any uncommon changes noted on your breast.

Another symptom of a breast cancer is a certain pain felt in one of the breast, maybe on both, or sometimes felt in the armpit. Pain commonly felt by women during their menstrual cycle. If you feel pain which comes about in a weird pattern, or comes way before or beyond your menstrual cycle, go to your doctor and have it checked. Another symptom could be your breast or nipple has sudden changes in its configuration and size. Swelling in the breast may have a deeper cause which possibly indicates cancer. Consult your physician about this to conduct further analysis and examination. Symptoms of a breast cancer may include fluid discharges, either clear or cloudy, leaking through your nipple. Another symptom could be a sudden alteration in colours of areola or nipple. Sometimes, there will be dimples and rashes around it.

Health is wealth, always bear this in mind. Be a keen observant on your own self and consult right away to a physician if there are any changes that may persist so that your doctor will conduct some test and examination for further evaluation.

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Breast Reconstruction After Lumpectomy or Mastectomy: Woman's Legal Right To Psychological Recovery

About one out of every eight women will develop some form of breast cancer within their lifetime. In 2010 approximately 207,000 cases of invasive breast cancer were diagnosed, with another 54,000 non-invasive cases diagnosed. Although breast reconstruction is an optional process after mastectomy, with over 2.5 women who have beat this disease, more and more women are choosing to have breast reconstruction as a part of breast cancer treatment. In fact, over 93,000 breast reconstruction procedures were performed in 2010, an increase of almost 20% from the year before (1). In fact, breast reconstruction has been seen as being so critical to a woman's recovery that in 1988, the Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA) was passed. This law actually requires all insurance companies who offer mastectomy coverage to also provide for reconstructive surgery, including any adjustments to the opposite breast to achieve symmetry and revision surgeries to refine the breast shape and recreate the nipple.

For most women, the treatment of breast cancer really consists of three parts. The first part of treatment is Physiological and involves the physical surgical removal of the tumor. A general surgeon performs either lumpectomy surgery, which removes the tumor and a small amount of surrounding tissue, or a mastectomy, which removes all breast tissue from the chest. Sometimes radiation therapy is used in combination with lumpectomy or mastectomy to treat any cancer cells that potentially remain. The choice of either surgery is usually determined by the size of the tumor, the size of the breast, and the patient's personal choice. The use of radiation is determined by the size of the tumor, tumor characteristics on biopsy, and what type of surgery is performed.

The second part of treatment is Pharmacological and includes chemotherapy in IV and/or pill form. Medications that modulate hormones are also sometimes used to reduce the risk of recurrence. This portion of the treatment can take anywhere from a few months to a year depending on chemotherapy drug choice, and tumor characteristics.

The final component of treatment is Psychosocial and includes all activities and treatments that help women to deal with their cancer and recovery. Studies have shown that breast reconstruction is important to helping women cope with cancer[2]. Because of this fact, breast reconstruction is a legally protected optional third part of treatment chosen by many women every year in the United States.

Breast reconstruction can be performed immediately after mastectomy or in a delayed manner, even months or years after mastectomy. There are several methods that can be used to reconstruct the breast, but they all fall under two main types - Flap reconstruction, which uses tissue from another part of the body, and Implant reconstruction, which uses a breast implant to recreate the breast. Sometimes a combination of both methods is used to get the best result possible.

Flap reconstruction uses muscle and fatty tissue from the back, tummy and occasionally other areas to create the breast mound. Skin can be transferred along with the other tissue when the chest skin has been damaged by infection, radiation, or a superficial tumor. Flap surgery requires a hospital stay of 3-7 days, leaves scars both on the breast and where the tissue was borrowed, and full recovery can take 2-3 months. Flap surgery has the benefit of avoiding an implant, but for patients who are very overweight or whose health is in poor condition, flap surgery may not be safe. Many women like that borrowing the tissue from the tummy is almost like having a tummy-tuck and that using tissue from the back can remove excess tissue that hangs over the bra straps.

Implant reconstruction has typically required two stages. During the first stage, a temporary implant (called a tissue expander) is inserted under the chest muscle. It is gradually filled with saline (IV fluid) after surgery through a needle that's inserted into a special part of the expander. In order to get more fluid into the expander at the time of the first surgery, tissue grafts called Allografts are sometimes sewn to the bottom of the muscle to make more room. The allograft also provides more coverage for the bottom of the implant. Complications of implant reconstruction with radiation are almost 50%, and the allograft can decrease some of these complications ( capsular contracture, exposure of the implant, and wound healing problems).

Using the allograft, sometimes an implant can be placed at the time of surgery (single stage reconstruction). This can only be done if the skin is in good condition after mastectomy. If the blood flow to the skin is poor, the traditional technique of slowly inflating the implant will need to be used.

If radiation is going to be needed, tissue expanders can be placed followed by flaps or implants, depending on how the skin recovers from radiation.

For more information the Author can be contacted by using this link.

[1] Report of the 2010 Plastic Surgery Statistics. Annual SASPS Procedural Statistics represent procedures performed by ASPS member surgeons certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery® as well as other physicians certified by American Board of Medical Specialties-recognized boards. ©ASPS, 2011

[2] Rowland, Julia H. "Psycological Impact of Treatments for Breast Cancer", Surgery of the Breast, 2nd Edition, p. 382, 2006

Dana M. Goldberg M.D. is one of the fastest growing cosmetic plastic surgeons in West Palm Beach Florida. Dr. Goldberg was trained at the Ohio State university in plastic and reconstructive surgery. After completing her training she moved to Florida to create the thriving medical practice she enjoys today. Dr. Dana works with patients throughout the world, and is happy to answer questions for patients by visiting http://www.drdanamd.com/

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Breast Cancer, A Poetic Perspective

Most people either know someone or know of someone who has suffered from Breast Cancer. Within my family, in the Navy, and in my business career, I have known several courageous women diagnosed with this horrific disease. All made the decision to undergo surgical procedures from lymph node dissection to a mastectomy. Thankfully, all are survivors over 5 years; the longest post-surgery is 40 years, which speaks volumes for advances in treatment.

The Scar is a poem about meeting someone, falling in love, marrying, being diagnosed with Breast Cancer, and seeing cancer not as an end, but as a new beginning. I write poetry about Breast Cancer from my perspective as a male and my belief most men respond in a like manner. The Long Ride is a reflection of The Scar from a different perspective and Walk With Me is a poem of love and a journey to understanding. Rounding out this series of poems is my personal favorite Love Remains True.

The Scar

When first we met,

I marveled at your flawless flesh;

nary a wrinkle or blemish did offset.

Until cancer took your breast,

leaving a scar, obvious as a mountain range

upon your once flawless flesh.

The scar a reminder of what had been

and a symbol, not of an end,

but a new beginning of life again.

The Long Ride

It is not outward appearance

whereby

love does survive

it is inner beauty

takes love

for the long ride

Walk With Me

Walk With Me

What started on our first day

Will stay to the last

Walk With Me

Feel the wind upon your face

No urgency now

A gentle pace

Walk With Me

Along the beach

With golden sand beneath our feet

As the sun dips into the sea

Tears well

Emotions deep

Breathtaking, unable to speak

Walk With Me

Among the trees

The rustle of leaves

The groan of limbs

As wind swirls

Squirrels scurry for protection

Loving arms hold you near

Until an unwelcome presence passes

Away from here

Walk With Me

Through valleys lush and green

Crested by majestic peaks

Covered with ice and snow

A final journey for the weak

A comfort for us below

Walk With Me

As we have

Your hand in mine

Forever through the span of time

Love Remains True

the initial reaction repulsive

depression for the unknown

dissection takes away disease

healing the process of time

the scar a reminder of what was endured

becomes insignificant through understanding

love remains true

"Cancer Survival Rates" indicate the current 5-year breast cancer survival rate for women is 86% and the 10-year survival rate is 76%. These rates include women of all ages and at all stages of cancer. To narrow the statistical figures, the survival rate for women whose cancer has not metastasized, that is whose cancer has not moved into the lymph system or the other parts of the body is 96%.

Strength provides the component for the will to survive. Belief, for many, is the component providing the strength to prevail and overcome. Research and medicine provide the treatments that allow high survival rates, and hope for the eradication of this horrific disease. The future, is in this life.

In This Life

In this life,

I do not lie in darkness,

I am immersed in light.

"Cancer Survival Rates" may be found at: http://www.cancersurvivalrates.net

No matter what you write, someone will love it.

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Diet That Will Cancer-Proof You Against Each Type Of Cancer

1. PREVENTION OF BREAST CANCER

To prevent against breast cancer take the following:
Vitamin E
Beta-carotene
Fiber
Yogurt
Garlic
Olive oil
Fruits
Soy
Tofu
Soymilk and
Vegetable, particularly carrots and spinach.

2. PREVENTION OF CANCER OF THE LARYNX:

Fruits
Green leafy vegetables
Vegetables oils
Antioxidant vitamins (A, C, and E)

3. PREVENTION OF KIDNEY CANCER:

Fruit (particularly citrus and apples and
Salads}
Vitamin C
Vitamin E

4. PREVENTION OF KIDNEY CANCER:

Vitamins, particularly C and E

5. PREVENTION OF COLON CANCER:

Take Fiber and fruits,
Vegetable particularly carrots and spinach,
Whole-grain bread and paste
Fermented diary products (Yogurt) and Calcium.

6. PREVENTION OF CANCER OF THE MOUTH:

Fruits particularly citrus,
Vegetables particularly those rich in carotene's

7. PREVENTION OF PANCREATIC CANCER:

Fruit
Vegetables particularly cabbages and tomatoes,
Grains
Legumes
Fiber and Yogurt.

8. PREVENTION OF NASOPHARYNGEAL CANCER

Vegetables Carotene (Pro vitamin A)

9. PREVENTION OF PROSTATE CANCER

Fruit
Tomatoes
Dried fruits (Raisins, dates)
Legumes
Soy, tofu, soymilk
Citrus pectin
Garlic
Fructose
Vitamin E
Carotenoids (Lycopene)
10. PREVENTION OF ESOPHAGEAL CANCER
Fruits, especially citrus fruits
Vegetables
Beta-carotene (Pro vitamins A) and carotenoids
Fiber.

11. PREVENTION OF OVARIAN CANCER

Vegetables particularly carrots
Whole-grain bread and pasta fish.

12. PREVENTION OF LUNG CANCER

Fruits and
Vegetables.

13. PREVENTION OF CANCER OF THE URINARY BLADDER

Fruit
Vegetables, particularly spinach and carrots beta-carotene (Pro vitamin A)
Vitamin C
Vitamin E

14. PREVENTION OF STOMACH CANCER

Fruit especially Citrus and Pineapple
Vegetables independent of their int rate content
Garlic
Onion
Whole grain bread
Vegetable oil
Pasta and rice.

15. PREVENTION OF ENDOMETRIAL CANCER

Fruit
Vegetables
Whole grain cereals, bread and paste
Beta-carotene
Legumes
Garlic and Onion.

16. PREVENTION OF LIVER CANCER

VEGETABLES
BETA-Carotene
(Pro vitamin A)
17. PREVENTION OF CANCER OF THE URINARY BLADDER
Fruit,Vegetables particularly Spinach and Carrots.

Beta-Carotene,Vitamin C and Vitamin E.

All said and noted the above listed fruits and vegetable among others not listed can prolong your life by aiding you beat, chronic and degenerative diseases,it is a lot better using fruits and vegetable to prevent disease rather than towing the path of using drugs.It is far more safer to use fruits and vegetable in preventing ill-health to using drugs.

The purpose of this article is solely informative,so as to aid you make some informed decision,as far as your health is concerned no one is more qualified to take decisions for you than yourself.

I remain yours
Dr. Chukwu Innocent O.

The author Chukwu Innocent O,is a trained spiritualist and alternative treatment researcher.You can reach him at his website: http://www.allspiritualsolutions.com/ or his blog at, http://www.homeofallspiritualsolutions.blogspot.com/

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Statistics of Breast Cancer in the United States

Breast cancer is a malignant tumor which originates from the tissues of the breast, especially the milk ducts and the lobules of the breast. This disease is more common in women and very rarely found in men. In the U.S., it is the second most common type of cancer among women, right after the non-melanoma skin cancer. In fact, it accounts for 28% of all cancer cases in women. Here are several other interesting statistics of breast cancer in the United States:

1. Caucasian women have greater chance of getting breast cancer than African American women. However, survival rate is greater in Caucasian women since African American women tend to be infected with more aggressive cancer cells. However, the cause of the case remains unknown. Women from other ethnicities such as Native American, Asian, or Hispanic have lower risk of developing the cancer if compared to Caucasian or African American women.

2. It is also the second most lethal cancer in women, after lung cancer. In 2010, 39,840 women were estimated to die because of this disease. The number has declined significantly since 1990 thanks to improved medical technology, early screening of the disease, and women's self awareness.

3. Around 5 - 10% of all cases are linked to genetic factors. If a woman inherits abnormal genetic changes or gene mutation from her mother or father, her risk of developing the disease increases up to 80%.

4. Although genetic factors play an important role, about 80% of women who are diagnosed with the disease do not have breast cancer history in her family. The occurrence of the disease is more likely to be caused by gene mutation that happens as a result of the aging process instead of inheritance.

5. Between 1999 and 2006, the rate of the cancer occurrence decreased around 2% each year. It is believed to be the result of the reduced use of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). In 2002, a study entitled the Women's Health Initiative revealed that HRT increases the risk of breast cancer. Additionally, the therapy also increases the risk of uterine, ovarian, colorectal, and lung cancer.

6. 12% of U.S. women (about 1 in 8 women) are estimated to develop invasive or secondary breast cancer during the course of their lives. In 2010 alone, there were 207,090 new cases of this disease.

7. Meanwhile, 1,970 men were expected to develop the similar invasive type of cancer in 2010. This figure makes up roughly 1% of all new cases.

The statistics of breast cancer, especially about breast cancer occurrence and number of deaths caused, are continuously decreasing. Awareness about the disease as well advanced medical technologies are significant key factors to decrease the occurrence rate of the disease.

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Early Symptoms of Breast Cancer and How to Detect Them

Breast cancer is the second most common and also the second most lethal cancer in women in the United States. It occurs when cancerous cells develop in the breast tissue, most commonly in the milk ducts or glands. The cells grow uncontrollably and, in some cases, they can even spread to other parts of body which are not directly connected to the breast, such as the liver, bones, lungs, and brain. This kind of condition is also known as metastatic, advanced, or secondary breast cancer.

Generally breast cancer shows several symptoms, including:

1. A lump in the breast which can be the size of a pea which persists even after one menstrual cycle. An unusual mass found in the underarm can also be a sign of the disease. Lumps are one of the first and very general symptoms of breast cancer. They generally are painless, but in some cases, sufferers can also feel a prickling sensation. They can be detected by mammography even before they can be felt or seen.

2. Changes in the breast size, temperature, contour, and texture. The affected breast can either swell up or shrink depending on the type of the cancer. It can also show other signs such as orange peel-like skin surface (also known as peu d'orange), flattening or indentation, a marble-like area under the skin, and higher temperature at the affected breast.

3. Pain and the feeling of tenderness of the breast.

4. The swelling of the lymph nodes in the underarm.

5. Changes that can be seen or felt in the affected nipple, such as nipple retraction, burning sensation, itchiness, ulceration, or the scaling of the nipple (which is also a common symptom of Paget's disease). Sometimes the nipple also produces bloody or clear discharge.

All the symptoms and signs can be seen with naked eyes and felt with manual examination. Nevertheless, breast self-exams are not recommended by some medication centers. Consult your doctor about the limitations and benefits of the self-examination before doing it. There are other, more accurate ways to examine the early symptoms of breast cancer, including clinical examination, mammogram, ultrasound scanning, and needle test (FNAC). All of these tests can be performed only by healthcare professionals. You are advised to have the examination(s) regularly, at least once in a year. The best time to get your breast examined is shortly after the end of your menstrual cycle since your breast will be in the most normal condition (not swollen or tender), making any abnormal changes easier to detect.

The detection of early symptoms of breast cancer is necessary for immediate follow-ups. Visit our site to get more info about how to detect the early signs and symptoms of the cancer.

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Breast Cancer and Environmental Estrogen, The Connection

Estrogen also spelt oestrogen is a normal hormone in the human body and in females controls the reproductive cycle and also prepares the body for pregnancy. Environmental estrogen is not a normal hormone because it comes from outside the body and is found in many everyday products we use. This environmental estrogen can mimic our natural estrogen and scientists know they can cause health problems including breast cancer.

It's because estrogen that is not found in nature can signal breast cells to divide and the more they divide the more likely they will develop cancer. Breast cells subjected to these chemicals will slowly change from normal body cells to tumour cells. It doesn't happen over night but will slowly develop over a period of 10 or 20 years.

Estrogen is found everywhere in our modern world we live in and unfortunately it is not particularly easy to avoid it. But some you can avoid, as many of them are commonly found in plastic. Two of these estrogenic chemicals are phthalate and Bisphenol A, sometimes called BPA and are in plastic to add flexibility and durability to the product. So avoid drinking from plastic bottles or storing food in plastic containers. Also some processed food tins now days are lined and this lining contains these chemicals as well.

It is also found in many cosmetics such as nail polish, perfume and underarm deodorant. Deodorants when applied to the underarm or breast area can accumulate in the breast fat and cause breast cancer. Phthalates are also used to make polyvinyl chloride which is abbreviated PVC and is in vinyl flooring and plastic shower curtains. A new car smell is actually phthalates vaporizing from the plastic used in the interior linings.

One of the ways that estrogen enters our body is through microwave cooking so never microwave in plastic containers and especially with the thin plastic film called "Gladwrap" The estrogen within the plastic is easily transferred to the food.

Epidemiological studies have shown that 90 percent of breast cancers are of environmental origin and not caused by genetics. As with most chemicals, we all thought they were harmless but we are now finding they are causing many of our modern day health problems. Also these chemicals tend to stay in the body for a long period of time.

I know plastic is very convenient to use but there is other much safer options, such as glass ware or stainless steel which are free of these chemicals. If you are checking labels, you rarely see the words phthalate or bisphenol A on the label of the product unless it says phthalate or bisphenol free.

Alan Wighton is an experienced natural therapist who has specialized in how the food we eat and the products we use are related to our state of health. To learn more about the link between breast cancer and the chemical connection and why there is so much of it; visit Alan's web page at; http://www.cancerhealed.com/
http://www.cancerhealed.com/

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Promise Me Fragrance to Cure Breast Cancer

A new development in the field of breast cancer awareness and support has uncovered an amazing new tactic to put a stop to the disease forever - perfume.

Perfume?

Yes, you heard correctly. The Promise Me fragrance has dedicated itself to finding a cure for breast cancer; as a matter of fact, Promise Me is the only perfume in existence to do so. So what exactly is Promise Me?

Promise Me is a perfume created by Jean Claude Delville, a famous and very popular perfumer. He created the cancer perfume to support research into the eventual destruction of the disease all together. His main goal, however, was to support cancer patients who are being treated - he hoped to give them a second chance at life.

And that is where the public comes in. Promise Me is available to the public, and it makes a great gift idea. Everyone knows that perfume is a wonderful present for family, friends, neighbors, or whoever!

The best part of it is, whenever any Promise Me product is sold, a considerable portion of the sale price becomes a donation that goes directly to Susan G. Komen for the Cure, an innovative and advanced breast cancer research and treatment center.

As stated above, the Promise Me fragrance to cure cancer is aimed at funding research and aiding in the treatment of patients. But, there's even more that those funds will be used for, including -

Educating men and women about cancer and how to fight itProviding speedier diagnosis so that cancer can be caught in earlier stage - remember, early detection is crucial to saving lives!

As a little-known fact, men can and do get breast cancer, and it is far more frequent than most people think it is. This cancer perfume is not only going to help women - treatment and help will be provided to anyone who needs it, man and woman alike.

Promise Me is a wonderful way for the average person to support breast cancer research and fight for a cure while getting something for themselves or a loved one in return. Not only will each buyer get their breast cancer perfume, other things are included like a scented bracelet and a book detailing the moving struggle of Susan Komen and her sister, whose lives were touched by this cancer. This story includes the details of how Susan pioneered the movement to stop cancer forever.

For more information about Promise Me, including details of the program and what it actually smells like, visit the Promise Me Fragrance to Cure Breast Cancer.

Can breast cancer really be cured with Jean Claude Delville's Promise Me perfume? Absolutely, thanks to the help of people like you!

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Up Breast Cancer Survival Rate Odds

Yet another reason to make some changes in the way you live, especially if you're worried about breast cancer survival rates. A new model created estimates that alterations to lifestyle habits like losing weight, getting more exercise and drinking less alcohol - all within our direct control - could see a reduction in the number of breast cancer cases.

Earlier models of breast cancer risk were based on factors that a woman could not change - family history, and aging for example, so they weren't able to pinpoint the effect of lifestyle choices a woman might make.

The model was developed with data from a case controlled study based in Italy that included 5,000 women and accounted for three risk factors that might be changed:

- alcohol consumption
- being active
- body mass index (BMI)

And five that are impossible (or difficult) to change:

- family history
- employment
- reproductive history
- biopsy history
- education.

Using the model, the researchers saw that it predicted improvements in the risk factors able to be modified - bringing a 1.6% drop (equal to 16,000 less cases) in the mean 20 year risk for a female population aged 65.

There was over a 3% reduction for those who had a family history of disease, and an impressive 4.1% drop for those who had the most risk factors that could not be changed.

The team recognizes that calling for women to make all these lifestyle changes might be unrealistic. And we can't assume these results apply to subjects in nations beyond Italy. Still, these findings will help create public health programs that encourage women to adopt lifestyle changes to keep themselves healthy.

The good news is that the findings will also help medical professionals counsel women on the risk reduction she might achieve by making some simple behavior changes.

After skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common type of cancer diagnosed in the United States. In 2010 alone, 201,000 U.S. women were diagnosed with dangerous, disfiguring breast cancer, with just under 40,000 dying as a result of the disease.

Over the course of a lifetime, your own risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer is one in eight. Today our awareness of the toll of this devastating disease has become mainstream, modern research helping improve not only the diagnosis but the treatment of breast cancer as well. Survival rates have gone up thanks to earlier detection, better treatments and an all around improved understanding of the disease itself.

Still, if you're worried about your own risk, this model shows that there are changes you can make to help yourself.

- Reduce your alcohol intake to a maximum of one drink a day.
- Do what you can to get your BMI in the normal range, and
- Be active (150 minutes/week of moderate activity) on a regular basis.

You'll also want to have the screenings recommended for you, at the right age, and report any change (or lump) in your breasts to your doctor, even if you've just had an exam or normal mammogram.

FREE Bonus Secret Health Reports - For a limited time you can grab 5 FREE essential health reports from the Daily Health Bulletin. Click through now to discover more about how to improve your breast cancer survival rate through simple lifestyle and dietary changes.

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Breast Cancer Survival Rates - Dare To Know Your Chances

With the technological and laboratory advancement done in the field of oncology, the breast cancer survival rates of women have been improving in the last two decades, but still, more studies are needed to be done.

Recent reports about cancer of the breast reveal that there is a significant improvement in breast cancer survival rates amongst patients who were treated with the newest treatment regimen.

The following are the breast cancer survival rates in patients who were diagnosed with the cancer in specific time period, showing the significant increase in the percentage of survival amongst old and new patients:
• 10% for patients from 1974 to 1979
• 14% for patients from 1980 to 1984
• 22% for patients from 1985 to 1989
• 29% for patients from 1990 to 1994
• 44% for patients from 1995 to 2000

The more recent the group of patients, the better the prognostic variables and the longer period of living. The main reason of behind this great change is the advances in drugs and treatments. The most favorable variables include:
• A smaller tumor size
• A lower level of disease status
• Fewer lymph nodes involved
• Disease-free interval longer
• Tumors with positive estrogen receptors (these are tumors that use estrogen to grow).
• Tumors that do not involve major organs

It is estimated that the risk reduction has started 1% to 2% per year but is steadily increasing, although the change was not highly significant statistically. This statistic is consistent with data SEET (database of the results found by the National Cancer Institute Surveillance, Epidemilogy and End Results)

Current statistics indicate breast cancer?
In 2004, approximately 217,440 new cases of breast cancer were diagnosed in the United States, and 40.580 women are expected to die from metastasis, this in accordance with the report of the American Cancer Society.

However, improvements in radiographic techniques and more precise imaging techniques can change the distribution of the phases. Small metastases that might have been detected with modern imaging techniques of the 90's could have passed without notice in the 70's.

What could be responsible for the increase in breast cancer survival rates?
The marked increase was a result of longer research period and the number of drugs available for treating cancer. One of the largest increases took place in the 90's with drugs such as taxanes, vinorelbine, capecitabine, Herceptin, aromatase inhibitors and pamidronate.

Regardless of the progress, the improvements in survival rates in patients, especially at the metastatic stage, have been difficult to establish.

Mortality from breast cancer has been in decline, however. From 1995 to 1999, rates of breast cancer have declined for about 3.2% a year. But it still remains not clear whether the decline is due to a higher proportion of patients diagnosed with early stages of the disease or improvements in treatment.

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Stage 4 Breast Cancer Prognosis Factors

There are four stages of breast cancer, from stage 1 to stage 4. In stage 1, the cancer is least severe and the chance of recovery is still high. However, at stage 4, the malignant tumor has spread to other parts of the body (such as the lungs, skin, bones, liver, brain, or distant lymph nodes) and is very difficult to cure. Thus, this stage is also known as advanced or metastatic stage. The cancer might be already at the advanced stage when it is first discovered, but it can also be a reappearance of previous breast cancer that has already affected other parts of the body. It is a very serious condition and requires focused treatments. Stage 4 breast cancer prognosis involves the prediction of outcome and the chance of survival that are based on other patients' experiences. Here are the prognosis factors of a stage 4 breast cancer:

1. The first factor is the survival tendency. As a matter of a fact, the five-year survival rate for patients suffering from metastatic breast cancer is only 20 percent. Thus, the aim of the treatment is a long term survival of the patient, since the cancer at this stage is incurable.

2. Hormonal factors also play an important role. Estrogen and progesterone that can be found in birth control medications or hormone replacement therapy can actually cause the cancerous cells to grow. A hormone receptor status test will show whether or not any of these hormones are causing the growth of the malignant tumor. If the patient is estrogen receptor positive (ER+) or progesterone receptor positive (PR+), the cancer should respond well to hormone suppression treatments. Moreover, the three-year survival rate for ER+/PR+ patients reaches 97 percent while the survival rate for ER-/PR- patients is only 83 percent.

3. Histology is another important factor since it determines the degree of aggressiveness of the disease by identifying the types of cancer cells found in the tumor. For instance, the type of breast cancer known as tubular adenocarcinoma is considered as the most survivable. On the other hand, inflammatory breast cancer is very aggressive and the five-year survival rate for stage 4 is only about 11 percent.

4. Other factors that affect the stage 4 breast cancer prognosis and survival rates are the areas in which the cancer has spread, the size of the tumor, age and race factor, genetic history, response to treatment such as chemotherapy, biological therapy, clinical trials, medications, radiation therapy and surgery.

Figuring out stage 4 breast cancer prognosis is crucial. It can help finding out the chance of survival of the patient and the treatment required.

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The Popular Breast Cancer Drug May Have Serious Side Effects

Tamoxifen is a drug that interferes with the activity of estrogen particularly in the mammary glands of women. It has been used to treat and prevent Breast Cancer (BC) for the past 3 decades. BC cells needs estrogen to grow. Without estrogen these cells are deprived of their vital nutrition and may die. This principle is used when Tamoxifen drug was formulated. Tamoxifen binds with the estrogen receptors in the breast thereby depriving breast cancer cells of vital protein in estrogen. To put it in layman's terms imagine an auditorium with a limited number of seats and assume the auditorium manager gives advance information to all the well behaved people and books their tickets. The auditorium gets filled with all the good guys the unruly bad elements who come late do not get a place inside. The show in the auditorium goes on without any trouble or untoward events. In this case the good guys are the molecules in the Tamoxifen which bind to estrogen receptors and the bad elements are the breast cancer cells. This process is also known as competitive antagonism.

Tamoxifen is effective only in estrogen receptor positive BC cases. It does not have any effect on progesterone receptor breast cancer and HER2/neu (Human Epidermal growth factor Receptor 2)BC. But the good news is that almost 70% of all the breast cancer cases are Estrogen receptor positive ones and this drug can very effectively treat breast cancer and even prevent it well in advance.

But there is a major catch and use of this drug is not without a cost. No it does not pinch the wallet that much even if insurance does not cover it in some cases. Tamoxifen is off the patent since 2002. It is now classified as a generic drug. It's price has dropped drastically ever since. Even though Tamoxifen is very effective it is not commonly prescribed as a preventive medicine because of it's chronic side effects. This drug is known to trigger uterine or endometrial cancer in many women. The risk of developing this type of cancer is quadrupled even after using Tamoxifen for as low as 2 years. American Cancer Society has listed Tamoxifen as a known carcinogen. In many women this drug is known to cause a spurt in triglyceride levels as well as fatty liver syndrome. Needless to say these are not good for heart or liver.

Tamoxifen can have adverse effect on the central nervous. It can severely impair cognition and memory. A good number of patients who are prescribed this drug experience a severe drop in sexual drive and libido. As in case of any risky treatment a cost benefit assessment has to be made. Breast cancer is a serious and fatal disease. If Tamoxifen has been assessed to be very beneficial in a particular patient's case then it has to be used. There are well established preventive and alleviating treatments for the side effects caused by Tamoxifen.

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2 Self Tests In the Fight Against Women's Breast Cancer

Statistics already published for 2010 show that more than one and a half million women worldwide were diagnosed as having some form of cancer. Out of this number, twenty five percent have been shown to have breast cancer - a really scary and horrendous one in four women.

The remaining seventy five percent represent all the other forms of cancer, of which there are many. Some of them are well known, such as skin cancer and lung cancer, while there are also some very obscure forms of this often fatal disease. Some have high cure success rates, while others do not respond well to the various treatments available.

It is therefore of the utmost importance that we women take great care of our bodies because, as we all know, we are the backbones of our families. We are wives, mothers, friends, cooks, cleaners and more, all rolled up into one strong human being who take the best possible care of our husbands and children. Even if we do not feel 100% well, we get up and do what has to be done; and it is for this reason that we need to get to know our bodies - so that we will know at the very outset if something is not quite right. Call it women's intuition.

The 2 tests that women can do at home to check for breast cancer are:
Test #1 is the easiest test - and one which has been proven to be highly successful - is that of self examination of one's breasts. You should do this once a month while lying on your back of a firm surface, such as a bed. Starting at your nipples and working in ever increasing circles, palpate or press your fingers into the breast tissue, almost as if you are playing the piano. Do this in the middle of your menstrual cycle, between your periods, so that any lumpy tissue associated with your period will not give you any cause for concern. By making a habit of doing this self examination every month, you will get to know your own body and all its lumps, bumps and idiosyncrasies. Should you ever feel something unusual that was not there last month, or if you think that a certain bump has grown larger, you should make an appointment with your doctor at soon as possible.
Test #2 is to check your nipples and is just as easy as test number one. Check to see if there is any discharge which may ooze (permanently or sporadically) from your nipples. Another test which is an indicator of breast cancer is if the nipple begins to turn in and is 'absorbed' by the breast instead of standing out proudly.

Remember, breast cancer is curable if detected in its early stages and mortality rates are increasing year on year. You stand every chance of surviving this awful disease and being there for your family for many years to come - but only if you take immediate action.

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How Can Breast Cancer Be Treated?

Did you know that each year about 216,000 women and 1,500 men are diagnosed with breast cancer? There are various risk factors of the disease like:

* Easy onset on menstruation

* History of cancer in the family

* Undergoing hormone (estrogen and progesterone) replacement therapies

* Heavy alcohol consumption

What are the types of treatments available?

There are a host of treatments for breast cancer. Even if it is possible to treat the disease with just one form of the treatment, in the advanced stages it might require to use more than one form including - surgeries, radiation therapies, antihormonal therapies, and chemotherapy.

Given below is a short discussion about each of the forms of treatment:

* Surgeries: The primary aim of this form of treatment is to dissect out the carcinogenic tissues from the affected area. There are different types of surgeries like:

- Lumpectomy or excisional biopsy - This involves removal of carcinogenic tissues as well as a portion of the surrounding breast tissue.

- Total or simple mastectomy - It is the removal of the entire affected breast.

- Radical or modified mastectomy - This is done on patients with advanced stages of breast cancer. In this surgery the oncologist removes the entire breast along with the underarm lymph nodes.

* Radiotherapy - In this treatment, intensive radiation is used for killing cancer cells invisible to the naked eye. This is generally used post-surgery to kill any carcinogenic tissue that may have been left behind after the surgery. Radiation is used to kill the carcinogenic cells and also to stop those from further multiplication.

* Chemotherapy - In this form of treatment, anti-carcinogenic drugs and chemicals are used to stop carcinogenic growths. There are different types of chemotherapy drugs that are used for the treatment of breast cancer. Oftentimes oncologists use these drugs in combinations called regimens. However, it is only possible for an experienced oncologist to determine the exact proportion and dosage for the treatment.

* Antihormonal therapy - Have you heard about estrogen-receptor-positive tumors? In some breast cancers, the hormone estrogen makes the cells grow. In this type of cancers antihormonal therapy proves effective in preventing the carcinogenic cells from growing.

Even though there are so many ways to treat breast cancer, you should consult an oncologist if you experience even the primary signs. For such critical disease you should visit a reputed clinic. Renowned centers comprise experienced specialists who will be able to provide the best possible care and treatment. If you are searching for a trusted cancer center, remember, when it comes to breast cancer, Elizabethtown is an area which comprises a few of the renowned cancer centers.

Breast cancer Elizabethtown - Searching for a trusted cancer center in Elizabethtown? Oakwood Cancer Center provides latest advanced level treatment technology and expertise services to all his cancer patients.

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Breast Cancer: Stages and Treatments

The existence of 'breast cancer' cause fear for most women. Not only because of the merciless ferocity, but also because this cancer often comes suddenly without permission.

But with the increasing awareness of women to conduct routine checks on her breasts. The amount of the death rate from this malignant cancer is increasingly reduced, especially for the patient under 30 years old. However, if it turns out that this malignant cancer has been residing in your body, given the very rapid development of stage 1 to not be saved only takes less than five years. Then you must be willing to perform various tests, examinations and undergo a series of super intensive care. All of this is done so that the wild cell growth rate of cancer's spread can be known. This is called 'staging'. There is no need to panic, because of the advances in medical technology is growing day by day; there are many possibilities for you to get away from this deadly disease.

These are the stages of Breast cancer and the treatment:

Stage 1
At this stage, the size of the cancerous lump is not more than 2 cm and cannot be detected from outside. A very systematic treatment will be given at this stage of cancer, the aim for this treatment is that cancer cells can not spread and does not continue to the next stage. At this stage, the chance of full recovery in the patients was 70%.

Stage 2
At this stage, the possibility of cured patients is 30-40% depending on the extent of the spread of the cancer cells. Usually the size of a cancerous lump was more than 2 even up to 5 cm and the diffusion rate was already up to the armpit area. Or it could be the size of the cancer has reached 5 centimeters but has not spread everywhere. We usually needs to perform surgery to remove cancer cells that exist in all parts of the deployment, and after surgery we perform irradiation to ensure that there are no more cancer cells left behind.

Stage 3A
According to data from the health department, 87% of breast cancers are found at this stadium. Cancerous lump is larger than 5 centimeters and has spread to lymph glands.

Stage 3B
Cancer has spread to all parts of the breast, even reaching the skin, chest wall, ribs and chest muscles. In addition, the spillover has been thoroughly attacked nodes gland. If you are already in this stage, there is no alternative other than breast removal.

Stage 4
The cancer cells has spread to other parts of the body, usually the bones, lungs, liver or brain. It could also attack the skin, lymph glands in the neck. Similar to the stage 3, actions that must be done is removal of the breast.

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Dispelling Myths About Lymphedema

Lymphedema is the swelling of a human body part caused by an abnormal accumulation of fluid, proteins, and cellular waste in the tissues under the skin. It occurs when there is a problem with the lymphatic system caused by one of the factors below:

-The failure of lymph vessels to develop properly

-Damage to lymph vessels by trauma, surgery, or infection

-Removal or destruction of lymph nodes, usually during treatment of cancer

Most of the advancements made in the understanding and treatment of lymphedema result from research on those who acquired lymphedema as a complication of breast cancer treatment.

Here are some common misconceptions about lymphedema:

Myth 1: It is an incurable condition. While it can be managed, lymphedema is a lifelong condition that will not go away over time. In fact, because it is a chronic progressive condition, even mild cases can eventually escalate and have serious consequences if not properly treated.

The gold standard for lymphedema treatment is complete decongestive therapy, which consists of two stages: a clinical phase where a lymphedema therapist performs manual lymph drainage and bandaging, and a self-care phase where the patient or caregiver performs the daily massage and bandaging. The clinical treatment may only take 4-6 weeks, but managing lymphedema is an ongoing process.

Myth 2: It will only develop within the first five years after surgery and radiation. Although we wish this were true, people can develop lymphedema at any stage in life. I have heard of a cancer survivor who 30 years after her treatment developed lymphedema after reaching up to pull down a garage door. It may be uncommon, but it can happen.

Myth 3: Lymphedema will make one's arm huge. One-size-fits-all is not true for lymphedema. Like cancer, lymphedema has various stages. Stage I is mild, Stage II moderate and Stage III severe. I've seen pictures of a lymphedemous leg grossly misshapen, and I've seen cases where I could hardly tell the person had lymphedema.

Myth 4: The sentinel node biopsy that only removes a few lymph nodes stops lymphedema from happening. The procedure, while reducing the incidence of lymphedema, has not eliminated it. Genetic predisposition to any disruption of lymphatic flow may tip the scales.

Myth 5: A person at risk for lymphedema or who has it should not carry heavy objects. This has recently been disproven. In fact, gradual lifting of weights with a compression garment helps with lymphatic flow.

Myth 6: If your limb starts to swell you can wait a while to get therapy. If you notice any swelling in a limb after removal of lymph nodes, even after a sentinel node biopsy, see a surgeon right away. The earlier you catch it, the better. If the doctor does not listen, go to another M.D. who will. And if you are diagnosed, insist that you get a prescription for lymphedema therapy.

To reduce the risk of developing lymphedema, many therapists advise patients to have their arm fitted for a compression sleeve to be donned during plane rides longer than four hours. But newer findings indicate that cabin pressure at high altitudes may not make a difference in swelling. In addition, survivors may wish to wear the sleeve when lifting heavy objects with that arm. One should consult the National Lymphedema Network or Step-Up, Speak Out to get current, reliable doctor-approved advice on risk-reduction practices.

While certain triggers have been found anecdotally to bring on lymphedema (such as long plane rides or repeated puncture wounds), many experts in lymphology now surmise that those who develop lymphedema do so because of a genetic predisposition. Also, some people are born with more lymph nodes than others, providing a more protective effect.

Notwithstanding myriad myths and misconceptions about lymphedema, my main advice is never to despair. You can lead a normal life after lymphedema. Some patients turn the anger they feel toward their surgeon in not informing them of lymphedema into legislative and other action to ensure more research is directed toward this under-served condition. Others start Web sites and blogs to provide needed information to patients at risk and those with lymphedema. Still others go on to live their lives without fanfare. All of these responses are valid.

For tips on breast cancer survival and management of lymphedema, visit Jan Hasak's Web site at http://www.janhasak.com/. Jan Hasak is author of two books on breast cancer: "Mourning Has Broken: Reflections on Surviving Cancer" and "The Pebble Path: Returning Home from a Forest of Shadows." A blogger and speaker, Jan Hasak volunteers for the American Cancer Society and serves as breast cancer and lymphedema patient-advocate with the National Lymphedema Network. She also serves on the Board of the Lymphedema Advocacy Group to lobby U.S. Congress on a bill to pay for lymphedema garments and other devices.

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How to Detect Breast Cancer: The Ultimate Guidelines

Breast cancer is caused by the uncontrolled growth of malignant cells within the breast tissue. These malignant cells in some cases develop lumps or tumors. When a woman finds an unusual mass in her breast, it can be either malignant or non-malignant, although 80% of the lumps found in the breast are non-malignant and therefore are not cancerous. However, if the diagnosis shows that the mass is indeed malignant, further treatment must be done. Otherwise, the cancer cells can spread to other areas of the body and can lead to death. Women are advised to know how to detect breast cancer to prevent the worst from happening. Thanks to advanced medical technology, there are ways to detect the cancer in its early stages and even before it starts showing symptoms.

Women aged 40 and older are advised to get an annual mammogram and should continue doing this as long as they are in good health. Although this diagnostic technique involves the use of x-ray, the level of radiation is low. It is able to find cancer cells even before they start showing symptoms. The other, simpler method of how to detect breast cancer is by simply performing Breast Self-Examination (BSE) every month. This method is ideal for women in their 20s and should be performed a week after period. Start by lying down on your back, put your right hand behind the head, and press gently around your right breast using the tips of your finger in a small circular motion. Do the same to the left breast by putting the left hand behind the head. Women in their 20s and 30s are also advised to see a doctor for a Clinical Breast Exam (CBE) once every 3 years. On the other hands, those in their 40s should have a CBE every year.

If you find abnormalities around your breast, additional screening is recommended. Your doctor can perform ultrasound, MRI or biopsy (i.e. take a sample of the affected tissue). The result of any of those tests will show if a cancer does occur. Other easy ways of how to detect breast cancer is by paying attention to the early symptoms. Tell-tale signs involve visible changes to the breast, such as redness, nipple retraction, nipple discharge (that may be bloody or not), peu d'orange (orange peel-like skin texture), puckering or dimpling, and onwards. If you experience any of those symptoms, you should see a doctor immediately.

Women need to follow the guidelines of how to detect breast cancer. Those guidelines will help them fighting the cancer and saving many lives.

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