Breast Cancer Newsletter

October 01, 2009

Breast cancer is a disease that develops in the cells of the breast when cells continue to duplicate abnormally.

Often, breast cancer is first noticed as a painless lump in the breast or armpit. It can be found by a physical exam, screening mammogram, by you or your physician. Signs may include:

- Swelling in the armpit
- Changes in breast shape or size
- Dimpling or puckering of the skin
- Swelling, redness and increased warmth in the affected breast
- Nipple turned inwards
- Crusting or scaling on the nipple

Be aware that lumps in the breast are very common, especially prior to a menstrual cycle. Most lumps are not cancerous and need to be tested for a proper diagnosis.

There is no single cause of breast cancer but there are various factors that may contribute to its development:

- Age: breast cancer can occur in women of any age but chances increase with age
- Personal history of breast cancer: A woman who has previously been diagnosed in one breast is more at risk of getting it again
- Family history: Especially in a sister, daughter or mother who has been diagnosed prior to menopause
- Beginning to menstruate at an early age
- Dense breast tissue
- Taking hormone replacement therapy for 5 plus years
- Reaching menopause later than average
- Never having given birth or giving birth for the first time after age 30

Many women will develop breast cancer without having any of the above risk factors. Also, some women who do have these risk factors do not get breast cancer.

A physician will consider a variety of factors to help determine the best possible treatment option. Some of these factors are: age, general health, whether the diagnosed person has been through menopause or not, and the type, stage and grade of cancer. Here are a few available breast cancer treatments that may be suggested:

- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Hormone therapy
- Biological therapy

During the final stages of cancer treatment there may be many mixed emotions. Some are excited to get back into their regular daily routines and others feel anxious and worried. The best way to help deal with any cancer diagnoses is through plenty of support. Talking with family and friends and other people diagnosed with breast cancer will help support a patient throughout the entire process.

Pay Later

Breast Cancer Newsletter