National Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Do you know that approximately 211,000 U.S. women are told they have breast cancer each year? Did you know that breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women? The first is skin cancer.
It's relatively easy to accept responsibility for your own health, at least your own breast health. Self-exams are the first way to take charge of your breast health. The second is to have annual mammograms performed after the age of 35-40, or earlier if you are at risk for developing breast cancer.
What is Breast Cancer?
Cancer is a group of diseases that result when abnormal cells randomly divide. The division of cells produces excess tissue which the body has no need for. This tissue becomes tumors. Tumors can either be benign or malignant. Benign tumors are non-cancerous and have not invaded other tissues and organs, but malignant ones have done just that, and can enter the lymphatic system and bloodstream. When this invasion occurs, secondary tumors are formed which is called metastasis.
Who's at Risk?
Breast cancer is not unique to women. Annually over 2,000 American men are diagnosed with breast cancer. Through research and observation, scientists have determined that age, medical history, reproductive history, personal and family medical history, genetic alterations, economics, race, environmental exposure, and lifestyle factors can all impact the odds for developing the disease. However, a person could have several of these risks and still not develop the disease.
Reducing the Breast Cancer Risk
There is a link between the levels of estrogen present and breast cancer. Estrogen does not appear to cause cancer, but does stimulate the growth of cancer cells. This said, it's no wonder that the largest percentage of the population of breast cancer victims is indeed women.
There are some things that women cannot avoid or change, such as age, family history, genes, and environmental factors. However there are many things that can be monitored. These things include later pregnancies, as pregnancy after the age of 35 correlates to an increased risk of breast cancer; and no pregnancies because there is no break in menstrual cycles and estrogen production. Others include the use of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), which seemed to increase the risk of breast cancer, poor diets, a lack of consistent exercise, the use of alcohol and smoking. Generally, adopting a healthier lifestyle is highly recommended.
Treatment Options
Cancer treatment options can be determined by a patient/physician once the type, location and extent of the cancer has been discovered. In addition, age, personal preference, and the level of risk involved will also come into play. Treatment options include surgery which removes and/or destroys the cancerous cells within the breast, and radiation therapy, chemotherapy and hormonal therapy which destroys the cells that may have metastasized.
Early Detection
Early detection is typically the key to having more available treatment options and an increased rate of survival. Women should take the bull by the horns. Ask physicians about mammograms, proper self-exam techniques, and visit a health care provider immediately if anything seems suspicious. Mammograms can detect potential problems long before lumps can be felt. Regular annual mammograms should begin at 40, unless risk factors make earlier screening necessary. Women should schedule mammograms for one week after the beginning of menstrual periods when breasts are least tender. On the day of the screening deodorant and lotions should not be used and two-piece clothing will make the procedure go quicker.
Mammograms are available through Medicare and Medicaid programs, private health insurance plans, and through the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) at 888-842-6355. Women are encouraged to contact their insurance providers for specific details.
Many women are fearful of the pain associated with mammograms, are ignorant of the risk factors, or put screening on the backburner due to hectic schedules, a lack of routine healthcare, or financial hardships. Breast cancer screening can save lives. Make your appointment today.
Written by StorkNetFamily.com staff writer Kim Green-Spangler
If you like this article, we'd be honored if you shared it using the button below.
