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Breast cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissue of the breast. These cancer cells \u2013 which are basically damaged or mutated cells that grow uncontrollably \u2013 can either remain in the breast (benign cancer) and not spread, or they can invade surrounding tissue and spread to other organs (malignant cancer). While approximately 200,000 Americans are diagnosed with breast cancer yearly, the good news is that death rates from breast cancer have been steadily declining since the 90s. This is due in part to better screening and early detection, increased awareness and better management options.
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In order to help you gain a better understanding of this condition, here are five need-to-know facts about breast cancer:<\/p>\n
1 in 8 women face the risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime. The good news is the advancements in science and medicine have greatly improved our understanding of this condition, as well as the treatment options for it. Due to the fact that doctors now find more cancers early and use newer, better treatments, survival rates are getting better all the time.<\/p>\n
The earlier breast cancer is detected and treated, the better the chance of successful treatment.\u00a0While an actual diagnosis of breast cancer requires specific hospital tests, it is important to be aware of the key physical symptoms such as:<\/p>\n
\u2013\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 A painless lump in your breast which was not there before<\/p>\n
\u2013\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Abnormal changes in breast size or shape<\/p>\n
\u2013\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Swelling in the armpit<\/p>\n
\u2013\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Nipple changes or discharge<\/p>\n
It is generally considered good practice to start carrying out breast self examinations starting in your twenties, as it is a good way for women to familiarize themselves with how their breasts normally look and feel. That may make it easier to feel and notice any changes or abnormalities right away. The most important screening method, however, is a mammogram, and the American Cancer Society recommends that women aged 40 or older should have a screening mammogram yearly.\u00a0Regular breast cancer screening mammograms are associated with significantly reduced deaths from the disease.<\/p>\n
Eating a low-fat diet rich in fruits and vegetables may decrease your risk of breast cancer, as well as diabetes, heart disease and stroke. In addition to a healthy diet, limiting alcohol consumption and not smoking may also reduce your breast cancer risk. Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of breast cancer so as well as being careful about your diet, it is also important to stay physically active, especially after menopause.<\/p>\n
Many people think alcohol is a risk-free beverage they drink only to have fun. But for those with high breast cancer risk, few drinks can be crucial! So limit the intake of alcohol beverages to one a day, or, if possible, do not drink at all\u2026<\/p>\n
Health benefits of excercize are well known. So if you want to lower down the risk of breast cancer, excersize at least 30 minutes, few times in a week. It doesn\u2019t matter is it dancing, boxing, yoga or waling\u2026 excercize is your friend and include it in your daily routine.<\/p>\n
Did you know that you face a higher risk of breast cancer if a family member has been previously diagnosed for breast cancer? In addition to knowing the symptoms, it is also important to know the risk factors associated with breast cancer. This includes genetic factors such as family history and your genetic makeup, and environmental factors such as the aforementioned poor diet and alcohol consumption. Here\u2019s more information about the risk factors:<\/p>\n
The important thing to remember about breast cancer is that it isn\u2019t just about knowing the facts; it\u2019s also about sharing these facts with the people around you, and spreading awareness about a condition which continues to affect many women worldwide. Consult your doctor or specialist if you have any questions or concerns about breast cancer, and reach out to those whom you know are going through it. With approximately $600 million being invested yearly in breast cancer research in the US alone, coupled with the many therapeutic milestones that have already been reached, there certainly is plenty of reason for everyone, not just breast cancer patients, to be hopeful.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n