My Breast Cancer Scare: Truths or Myths?

Every time I've changed Gynecologists, I filled out the dreaded medical history forms knowing the reaction my new doctor will have once she/he sees that both my grandmothers had breast cancer."Do you examine your breasts often?" "You need to be very careful", "Here put your arms up and let me see" poke poke poke...

Though I am glad for their concern I must admit that it is scary to think that you are considered high risk for breast cancer. In June of this year, I turned 30 and I can't begin to tell you all the weird changes that have been happening to my body. Some are way too weird and personal to mention, but about a month ago I did find a strange mass in my left breast. Now this is not really unusual for me since I normally have quite lumpy breasts, especially as that time of the month gets closer. So I figured it was just my natural lumps just feeling a little extra lumpy and I didn't pay it much mind. Three weeks later however it was still there and even more pronounced. So, to ward off any possibilities that it was my imagination playing tricks on me I asked my mother if she felt anything and she did. I quickly made the appointment to see my gynecologist.

I decided not to become rippled with fear about what the possibilities of an unknown mass in my breast could mean, but my panicky personality got the best of me and at times and I would picture myself losing all my hair which I had been spending so much time and money taking care of, the possibility of not being able to have kids, and worst of all losing my breast which I quickly passified by picturing myself with fake boobs. Vein and shallow!...yes I know. I reprimanded myself for thinking such thoughts and focused on God and life and thinking positive. It may be nothing.

The day of my much anticipated appointment came. As I waited in the examination room for my doctor, I lay on the bed in my robe opened to the front and busied myself with texting and bbm'ing to keep my mind of the negative. Thirty minutes later my doctor walked in with chart in-hand and stated, "What borough do you live in?" I said Queens. She said, "For How long?" Took me a while to think. I was unprepared for those questions. I was expecting something more around "How long have you had the lump?", "Who else in your family has had breast cancer?", "Seen any strange oozing?"

Seeing the confused look on my face, my gynecologist explained that the reason why she asked was because women who have lived in Queens and Long Island all or most of their lives are twice as likely to get breast cancer than women in any other borough in New York City. I was shocked! "I wasn't aware of that at all" I said and told her that I had only been living in Queens for the past 2 years and spent most of my life in the Caribbean. She then began her examination of both my breasts, starting with the right and then the left. She quickly felt the mass as well as another somewhere in the center of my left breast. She had me feel it also and yes! certainly there was something there. Not quite a lump or ball per se but definitely something. She asked me if I drink caffeine. I replied in the affirmative and told her that I had at least one cup a day give and take a few days here and there when I preferred tea. She told me that caffeine has been known to make the breasts lumpy. Again, I was shocked at that.

She also told me that taking 600 mg's of Vitamin E daily will also help prevent breast cancer. Another shocker! She also asked me if I wore wired bras. I told her "All the time" she then went on to say that I needed to get non-wired bras since the wired ones are known to put extra pressure on the glands of the breast and can lead to breast cancer also. Yet another shocker!

She never once mentioned or even brought up my grandparents, so I volunteered the information just in case she missed it. She then asked me at what age they were diagnosed. I wondered whether it mattered, point is they had it and that makes me high risk! I said one was diagnosed at 84 and another at around 60. She nonchalantly shrugged it off saying "OK they were both past menopausal age". I was like "ok", wondering if that now meant that I am no longer high risk. Talk about confused.

By the end of the examination she explained that though I am too young to have a mammogram because of the density of my breast, that she was scheduling one anyway along with a sonogram just to be on the safe side. My heart was beating as she wrote the referral, still nervous and overwhelmed from the confusing information I had just received as well as this pending mammogram which I had heard such horror stories about. Two days later I showed up for my "mamo" and "sono" and though the doctor said that the tests are never 100% percent accurate, I thank God that the results were negative and showed no abnormality.

Though I was relieved, I was still a bit confused and very concerned. Even if the less than perfect results are negative then why do I have a lump? could the test be wrong? and am I really at less of a risk for breast cancer because both my grandparents were diagnosed post menopausal? and do I really have to go buy an entire new collection of wireless bras and take 600 Mg's of Vitamin E? Clearly there were some mixed messages being sent here and we all know prevention is better than cure so it was time to get to the bottom of things. I therefore decided to do some research and here are some of my findings.

I don't know about you, but I always thought a lump in the breast was a sure and definitive sign of cancer. The September issue of Cosmopolitan however, featured a section on finding a lump in your breast and that breast cancer doesn't have to be the diagnosis. According to their source, Marisa Weiss, Breast oncologist and Founder of Breastcancer.org "boobs get lumpy all the time" and although breast cancer is uncommon in young women it is always good to be on the safe side and always check with your gynecologist. She pinpoints a few different types of lumps that can be found in the breast and what it could possibly mean. For instance, if it feels like a painless moveable sphere, it's probably a fribroadenoma which are firm growths common in women in their 20's and are perfectly harmless. If the lump(s) feel small and pebbly or knotty, it's most likely fibrocystic changes related to hormone changes in the body particularly around PMS. If the lump is spongy round or oval it could be a fluid-filled cyst formed when fluid is retained in the breast tissue and has to be drained by a procedure called needle aspiration. So for starters, we know that all lumps don't necessarily mean breast cancer especially if you're still in your child bearing years. Youth however, doesn't necessarily mean that you're not at risk for getting breast cancer either. The only way to be sure is to see your gynecologist.

The October issue of Shape Magazine really goes into dispelling some of the breast cancer myths out there with a great article called "What You Don't Know About Breast Cancer Can Hurt You" by Karyn Repinski. The first myth is: You can't get beast cancer if it doesn't run in your family. Like Sr. Weiss said, anyone can get breast cancer. The true determinants are age, hormones, biopsy history and breast density as well as other factors. According to Repinski, the real danger is in having a false sense of security so always check with your doctor to be on the safe side. The second myth is: Breast cancer always appears as a lump. The truth is signs of breast cancer can come in many ways. For example, a change in the size of your breast like a dimpled area or puckered appearance to the skin, an itchy scaly area, nipple discharge, swelling or redness of the breast or an inverted nipple. The third myth is: antiperspirants and under wire bras cause breast cancer. According to Repinski, the National Cancer Institute has done several studies that shows no correlation between breast cancer and deodorants or under wire bras. Phew! isn't that that's a relief?!

Though Respinski has cleared up a few of the smokey areas I am still confused about the family history theory as well as whether daily intake of vitamins such as Vitamin E lowers one's risk. So we know anyone can get breast cancer, but do persons with a family history of women being diagnosed in the pre or post menopausal stage make a difference in your chances of being diagnosed as well? To answer this question I took to the internet. According to Cancer.org "breast cancer risk is higher among women whose close blood relatives have the disease." If your mother, sister or daughter has been diagnosed, you are twice as likely to be at risk. If two of your close relatives have been diagnosed your risk is essentially tripled! Now interestingly enough, less than 15% of women with breast cancer have a family member(s) who was diagnosed which means that 85% of women who do get breast cancer actually have no family history of the disease. According to Breasthealthlink.com, a person with a familial history of breast cancer is one who has:

A relative who has had breast cancer in both breasts

A relative who was diagnosed with breast cancer before the age of 40

A relative who has had both breast cancer and ovarian cancer

A male relative who has or has had breast cancer

Familial factors that affect your risk are:

The number of relatives with breast cancer

The age at which their breast cancer is diagnosed.

The number of first degree relatives with breast cancer

The next step in this myth debunking research is determining whether an intake of 600 Mg's of Vitamin E will really help prevent breast cancer. In regards to diet and vitamin intake, The American Cancer Society suggests eating a healthy diet focused on plant sources such as fruits, vegetables and whole grain and limiting consumption of processed foods and red meats. According to Cancer.org however, studies on the effects of vitamin intake such as Vitamin E on breast cancer are conflicting and inconclusive. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that Vitamin E's antioxidant abilities help to destroy free radicals which can damage bodily cells and DNA. The UMMC Study shows that women diagnosed with breast cancer show low levels of vitamin E in the body. Based on this observation, researchers have felt that vitamin E intake would help prevent breast cancer. However, studies have not been able to prove that intake of vitamins does in fact reduce one's risk.

Though I am more at ease about the myths and truths about breast cancer, I realize that risk factors vary greatly and can range from gender, to age as well as family history, race and ethnicity. Though I didn't touch on this, your lifestyle is also a factor in your risk for breast cancer and includes: oral contraceptive use, hormone therapy, having children, breast feeding, alcohol use and even physical activity. In reality one can never really know definitively what are the causes of breast cancer or what our individual risks are. The important thing is to educate yourself about the disease so that you can look out for any possible warning signs. Know your body. If something feels strange or looks strange be sure to check with your doctor and always get a second, third or fourth opinion.

Based on the information I've learned I understand that I am at risk. Having two second degree relatives affected by the disease increases my awareness as well as my risk. My paternal grandmother was diagnosed in her early post menopausal 60's and succumbed to the disease because of her own lack of knowledge. My maternal grandmother on the other hand was a survivor and was diagnosed in her early 80's with both breast and ovarian cancer. My cousin was also diagnosed in her early 20's. I may not be able to prevent myself from getting breast cancer but I can surely help decrease my risk. Debunking the myths and finding the truths was the first step and puts a more realistic and controlled picture in my mind. Although my "sono" and "mamo" are normal I intend to go get a second opinion being that the lump in my breast is still very much there. I also intend to lower my risk by getting into a more strict exercise routine, as well as eating a more well balanced diet made up of at least 5 grams of servings or more of vegetables and fruits per day. I will not go out and buy a wardrobe of new bras, but I do intend to continue to take my vitamins daily, yes even the Vitamin E. I also plan to continue my routine at-home breast exams. If I were not doing that exam regularly I probably would never have discovered the lump and we all know prevention is better than cure.

Women (and men) need to be aware of this disease. The only way to increase your awareness is through knowledge. There are lots of information on the internet and in your local library and don't be afraid to ask your doctor all the relevant questions. Express your concerns and talk about your personal risk. According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in American women, except for skin cancer. Almost a quarter of a million women will be diagnosed in 2011 alone and almost 40,000 will succumb to the disease. At this time, there are over 2.6 million breast cancer survivors in the United States alone including my grandmother. Thanks to the stellar care she received at the Queens Hospital Breast Service and early detection, she was able to survive both breast and ovarian cancer. Strong family support was also a factor. Sometimes the families of breast cancer victims are forgotten and overlooked, but they also play a very important role in the care and support that they provide to family members. Caring for a family member diagnosed with breast cancer can be extremely stressful. This breast cancer month take the time to learn more about the disease and participate in the fight for the cure.

Natural Cure For Breast Cancer - A Different Approach

Breast cancer is one of the leading killer cancers for women. There is as much need for the cure for breast cancer as the need for emotional bolstering. Everyone needs to educate themselves about this disease.

What is breast cancer?

This is a type of cancer that begins in the breast cells. It is more common in women, but can also happen to men. Women between ages 45 and 55 are more prone to this disease.

What are the symptoms?

The first tell-tale symptoms are a lump that can be felt in that area that is different from the tissues that comprise the breast. There might also be changes in the size and appearance of the breast. It might look dimply with inverted nipples that have fluid discharges.

If there is an inflammation, there might be pain, a warm sensation, redness and swelling in that area.

What are the causes?

In truth there are many factors that can trigger this. Age seems to play a key role, especially to the women past the childbearing age. Other than that, factors such as gender, hormones, diet, obesity, radiation can contribute to the progress of this disease.

Genetics also play a vital role. Those who have a history of this disease in their family are more likely to develop it after the childbearing age.

What are the treatments?

There are many clinical treatments used to treat this condition. Depending on the stage of this disease, your doctor may prescribe you with a series of treatments. It also follows a series of medications.

ILT or Interstitial laser thermotherapy is a new method today that can treat this problem without surgically removing it. Another treatment is with the use of radiation therapy which can destroy the cancer cells. It inhibits the development of the bad cells in the future by 50 to 66%.

Many women have not singled out the treatments for this disease. They have tried many different ways to help them with their condition. Natural cure for breast cancer is one of these alternative treatments.

First, try to adapt a non-carcinogenic diet. There have been many reliable accounting that reports an almost miraculous healing on their health. These women have been eating more fruits and vegetables rather than meaty and fatty foods.

Supplementing with vitamins and minerals has also been proven effective. Ingesting omega-3 supplements has been very effective in either keeping the cancer cells at bay or inhibiting its growth.

Omega-3 essential fatty acids DHA and EPA can be taken from fishes. They are the most abundant source of these nutrients so it is a big help to take fish oil supplements.

There are herbal remedies that are purported to help this problem as well. Dong quai, for one, can help normalize the production of hormones. Black Cohosh has similar benefits.

To help women live a better quality life, there is a natural product that can supplement lost energy. This product is called Fatigue Fighter.

This product can improve the vivacity and the strength of a person suffering from this disease. It can also improve the health of the immune system to hinder the possibility of complications. This product will enable the person to still perform well physically without feeling fatigued.

This is safe to use because it only uses natural ingredients such as Siberian Ginseng, olive leaf extract and centella asiatica.

With all the success stories of women who have tried natural treatments, I think experts should consider doing a bit more research on this method instead of always finding severe methods to kill the cancer cells.

The cure for breast cancer is extensive. It is important to keep an open heart and mind over the many possible treatments that can send you on your way to recovery.

Coping With Breast Cancer - Ten Survival Tips

In Chinese, a crisis is expressed in two characters: danger and hidden opportunity. As a breast-cancer survivor, I have faced many challenges, but God has revealed to me opportunities that translate into incredible blessings. I share some suggestions below for those struggling with this disease.

1. Ponder scriptures

Let biblical passages like Psalm 119:105 (likening the Word of God to a lamp) illuminate pathways for healing and reveal any encroaching thorny thickets. Use verses as your penlight to avoid stumbling around in the darkness.

When I joined the ranks of breast-cancer survivors, I clung to Psalm 23 for solace. During chemotherapy I reflected on how God was comforting me as I walked through my own valley of the shadow. Review the list of common emotions in the front or back of your Bible to locate verses that speak to particular sentiments, such as worry, weariness, or fear. Gideon Bibles found in many hotels contain these sections to ease the troubled traveler's mind.

2. Pray unceasingly

One of my childhood treasures was a book entitled "The Lord's Prayer." Each page was inscribed with a verse from Jesus' model prayer in Matt. 6:9-13. Bright illustrations of kneeling children with uplifted hands accompanied each verse. I was captivated by the images. Although as a child I was not yet ready for Jesus' heartrending prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, this picture book was early preparation for a more mature prayer life.

Prayer is a powerful tool. Like African prayer warriors thriving in the midst of deprivation, during my treatment I lifted prayers to the only One who could take away troubling emotions and side-effects. Lying in bed, I visualized my pallet being lifted to God through the roof in a reverse move from the paralytic brought from the roof to Jesus for healing in Mark 2. I strongly felt God's healing warmth as I prayer-walked upward to meet Him.

3. Treasure fellowship

As a cancer survivor I most assuredly relished the cards, hugs, prayers, and empathy of friends. The blessings of others that dispelled my pouts through bouts of cancer were crucial to healing. Hebrews 10: 24-25 tells us to encourage one another and meet regularly for worship and fellowship. The latter can include simply listening, sharing a meal, or offering a Bible study to encourage camaraderie and spiritual enrichment. My husband and I were blessed by the insights shared at our home Bible study during my cancer treatment.

4. Make church attendance a priority

Ideally, the breast cancer survivor should attend a local church, for reasons extending beyond congregational worship. Shortly after I was diagnosed with cancer, members of a former church we attended rallied around me in prayer for healing. Their love transcended church membership, and coalesced with that of members of our new church. These compassionate individuals provided needed meals and child care as well as spiritual support, something I would have missed had I not attended church.

If your breast cancer has left you home-bound or residing in a facility, you can find other options to connect with a church. Ideas include listening to a radio station offering Bible studies and uplifting choir or praise music, watching a Christian worship service on TV, or enjoying sermons from a visiting pastor.

5. Obtain Biblical counseling

Counseling from a biblical perspective can address many issues with which breast cancer survivors struggle, including guilt, anger, and non-forgiveness. I sought counseling from a local church and a crisis pregnancy center for issues arising from my cancer diagnoses. If these resources are not available, on-line tools are at the disposal of the computer literate. Some people prefer the anonymity of e-mail counseling. Focus on the Family (at (800) A-FAMILY) provides referrals for telephonic counseling sessions.

Financial counseling may be available through a local church, the American Cancer Society, or resources written by Christian financial experts such as Larry Burkett. I learned to organize my bills and health information into labeled file folders, and used my insurance company's website to access histories of appointments and payment records.

6. Recognize life seasons

The time spanning when I was first diagnosed to the end of treatment was only for a season. Recognize with Solomon in Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 the times for every activity under heaven. Of all the seasons listed in this passage, "a time to laugh" appeals to me most. Many studies show that humor helps relieve stress, combat depression, and extend quality of life.

My three sons, ranging in age from 3 to 11 when I was diagnosed, reacted to my cancer by watching how I responded. Comic relief went a long way to dispel the tension they felt. I thoroughly enjoy watching these boys laugh at black-and-white slapstick comedians like Abbott and Costello and at modern-day comedies like "Chicken Run."

"A time to dance" is another fun season. Try some salsa dancing, like a survivor I overheard in the chemotherapy infusion room. It will lift your spirits as well as your feet, control weight, and rev your circulation to the max!

7. Witness using personal testimony

While Christians don't always recover from diseases even though prayed for, they can still use their adversity to glorify God in their lives. Jesus modeled that approach when he delayed coming to Lazarus in Bethany until Lazarus died. The story is found in John 11:3-6. When Jesus heard of Lazarus' sickness, he assured his followers that the outcome would be God-glorifying. Often, the more severe the suffering, the more wondrously God works through the power of personal testimony.

On the Titanic, some Christians gladly relinquished their places on life rafts to the unsaved, witnessing powerfully to their faith in eternal life. We've also heard of Christians in the burning World Trade Center on 9-11-01 witnessing in their last moments to non-believers in the midst of unimaginable terror. 2 Timothy 1:8 admonishes us not to be ashamed to testify about our Lord. It challenges me to go forth boldly, knowing that none can take away my personal story.

My husband's emails on God's mercy throughout my cancer ordeal were sent to all who were curious how I was bearing up. God is faithful in fanning the global fire of the gospel through such testimony.

8. Resolve to understand God

Some disasters shake us to our very core. When I felt myself helplessly mired in the muck of cancer, I recalled Jesus' parable in Matt. 7:24-27. He reassured us that we are set on solid ground, not in sinking sand. As I put our Savior's words into practice, God pulled me up and out of cancer-induced depression and into an indescribable joy. He is the Rock upon which I set my hope.

In the midst of the unexpected, God is there. For example, on September 11, 2001 otherwise annoying delays on their way to work saved some employees' lives. Now, when I am stuck in traffic and an ambulance rushes by on its way to the accident ahead, I bow my head in prayer for the ones affected by such tragedy, rather than wallowing in self-pity over the minor nuisance of a traffic jam. We should consciously determine to understand how God is using such seeming disturbances and thank him for them.

9. Find volunteering opportunities

Almost two millennia ago, Paul taught that all the commandments are summed up in loving your neighbor as yourself (Romans 13:9). Breast-cancer survivors are greatly appreciative of all the sacrifices of others from which they have benefited. Below are some ideas for showing love to fellow cancer strugglers.

If there is no breast-cancer support group in your area, start one. The locale might be your own church for women who are most comfortable in a Christian environment. Or you can volunteer for a local American Cancer Society branch, helping women in myriad ways.

Counseling others in person or by phone or email is another viable possibility. Open any Bible and appropriate passages will jump out to address the situation at hand. Courses on training counselors might be offered at a local church or on-line.

In another vein, you can ask your oncologist if you are eligible to participate in a clinical trial. Not only would you receive state-of-the-art treatment, but you would be personally contributing to advancement of breast cancer research. In this way, the survivor can directly make a difference in moving the whole planet Earth to a "cancer-free zone."

10. Leave behind stereotypes

Stereotyping often leads to judgment. People who appear to have their lives together may not. Jesus taught us in Luke 6:37 not to judge, so that we would not be judged. The breast cancer survivor should not presume that a person who avoids her or doesn't laugh at her jokes cares nothing for her. Some people limited their discussions with me because they didn't trust how they would handle difficult emotions. Certain nurses find it hard to identify with patients' humor because they witness daily so much devastation in the lives of others.

From a different perspective, those dealing with cancer survivors should not assume that such survivors can perform all tasks, regardless of their outward appearance. Because of lymphedema that developed in my arm after lymph-node removal and radiation, I do not lift or carry heavy items. I make others aware of this limitation, since it is not obvious. Conversely, one should not place artificial limits on cancer survivors. For example, during cancer treatments I kept up my regular aerobic exercise. I continued my work as an attorney in a high-intensity environment, although I did revert to a part-time schedule for a season. I painted landscapes. While this amazed some people, it is not uncommon for cancer survivors to adhere to old routines for a semblance of normalcy. The bottom line is to endeavor to delve into what makes a person tick before reaching conclusions.

These are some ways I found to fend off the breast-cancer blues. I pray that those facing the crisis of breast cancer will find hidden opportunities and blessings, and hear the Savior say at the pearly gates of heaven, "Well done, good and faithful servant!"

Copyright @ 2008 Jan Hasak All Rights Reserved

Breast Cancer - Its Gestation Period - Signs to Watch Watch Out For and What to Do

BREAST CANCER

Break cancer is a disease that is commonly found in women. No woman ever prays for it, because it could lead to death. Yet every woman stands the risk of contracting it.

GESTATION PERIOD

The gestational period of breast cancer can be divided into four stages; the fourth stage constitutes the most horrible because it is the stage at which the disease spreads to other parts of the body. It is hardly noticed at the first stage; but it becomes visible as it progresses. The fourth stage is the last stage, even if the breast is removed at that stage, it does not make any difference, as it must have spread to other parts of the body. Including the blood and the lymph.

SIGNS TO WATCH OUT FOR

o Change in outline, shape or size of the breast

o Puckering or dimpling of the skin

o Lump or thickening in the breast or armpit

o Flaking skin or discharge from the nipple

o Unusual pain or discomfort in the breast

WHAT TO DO

Even though, it is believed that there is nothing any woman can do to prevent breast cancer, the important thing is to take necessary precaution especially undergoing medical examination from time to time; and checking the breasts for any sign especially if there is a lump somewhere. Lumps can only become visible at the second or third stage of the cancer. But if detected, necessary corrective surgeries can be carried out. If it goes beyond this and spreads to other parts of the body, especially the lymph is nothing anyone can do again.

Breast Cancer Dietitians

One of the largest fears that women have today is the contraction and development of breast cancer. All that can be done in the result of this diagnosis is to fight it in every way that is known to be effective. This frequently means changes in exercise, social activities, and diet.

As for the diet, there is no set food product that must be eaten or must be avoided. In order to optimize the body's ability to fight off the cancerous tissue, there are some suggestions that doctors, scientists, breast cancer dietitians and surviving breast cancer patients have made to make the best of a terrible situation when it comes to food.

There are several categories that dietitians say should be taken into consideration when it comes to the "right" foods. These are minerals, vitamins, fruits, vegetables, beverages, whole grains, flax seeds, and some other miscellaneous food stuffs.

All of these categories have their specifics as to what should be eaten and avoided and in what quantities. When it comes to minerals, the consumption of selenium supplements or items that contain a fair amount of selenium is preferred, as is the consumption of magnesium. Though magnesium is most effective for some types of colon cancer, it has still proven effective for fighting breast cancer. Vitamin D and Folate are also key to the fighting of cancer, though the vitamin D should not be consumed from dairy milk because dairy milk's high concentration of lactose can give speed to the cancerous cells.

It is also suggested on some occasions to consume garlic if breast cancer is contracted. The allyl sulfur that is found in Garlic can help fight cancer infected tissues and can help prevent cancer altogether in some cases.

A breast cancer dietitian may also suggest a large excess of fruits and vegetables. The vitamins and other chemicals that are obtained from fruits and veggies can help the progression of healthy cells and the stopping of cancer infected areas in the body. Tomatoes are one of the key ingredients to helping stave off cancer tissues of many varieties.

Though the high lactose in dairy can help cancer cells grow and reproduce, the calcium found in some of these products can be highly beneficial, so calcium supplements or lactose free dairy can be advantageous.

Breast Cancer - In Denial After Finding a Lump in the Breast

Why is it that when the topic of breast cancer crops up in conversation some women tend to shy away in belief that they personally are exempt from contacting the disease? Listen up ladies breast cancer is serious and can affect any one of us at any time. It is in every woman`s best interest to do regular self breast examinations. Many cancers are curable and the odds get better for survival if the cancer is caught in the early stage.

Ignorance is a deadly concoction for those in denial after finding a lump in their breast or any other type of health abnormality. If you choose to ignore the warning signs on health matters as such then you may be living under threat of a death sentence.

Early detection of breast cancer with the aid of modern medicine will definitely give a woman hope in curing the breast cancer if diagnosis was sanctioned.

Breast awareness should be practised by every female regardless of age. What is meant by awareness is where you are encouraged to get intimate with your self i.e. looking for abnormalities in the breast. Women need to know what is normal and what is abnormal. Change in look and texture of the breasts is a common way that women can tell if something is not right.

Symptoms that you need to check for and may suggest that something is not right are lumps or thickening of the tissue, pain is also another factor that can denote a problem. A common change is discharge from the nipple any unusual appearance or sensation to tethering of the skin. Why cause your self unnecessary stress where you maybe worrying over something or nothing. Only your doctor after giving you an examination is in the position to let you know if any of the above symptoms are caused by breast cancer being present.

As we speak there are no definite causes to blame for the disease, however, certain risk factors have been identified like inheritance i.e. inherited gene mutations. Of course just because you may have had a relative contract breast cancer at some time does not mean that you will.

Life`s natural function of the aging process is another risk factor that sees 80 per cent of breast cancer affect women when in the post-menopausal period. As the woman ages the more genetic damage accumulates in the cells, increasing the risk that the genes which direct growth will go out of control. Other certain risk factors have been labelled as having no children or children late in life, taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and starting your periods early or the menopause late. Once again these are speculative causes believed to be risk factors.

Scientific study has enlightened us that taking the contraceptive pill can slightly increase the risk of breast cancer. It is of the utmost importance that you see your doctor or nurse at the clinic if you find an abnormal lump etc. If breast cancer is detected then the right treatment can be carried out or the right medicine administered.

An examination more often than not will include blood tests and chest x-ray. if you have a lump then the doctor may need to take a closer look possibly using an ultrasound, mammogram, needle aspiration and/or needle biopsy. However some tests may need to go further where certain examinations include having liver or bone scans. Some women tend to scare themselves when reading about breast or cervical cancer, and it because of this that they choose to ignore and in some cases dismiss the fact that their problem maybe cancer related. This is not a healthy approach in looking for a cure.

Breast Cancer - Our Journey

I do a great deal of speaking regarding breast health and taking charge of one's life. As a motivational speaker you hope that your message reaches the spirit of your audience to take action regarding their health, particularly their breast health. When it comes to our breast health, or any health issue for that fact, as individuals we must be willing to get to know our bodies and become aware of any change from yesterday, last week, last month or last year.

Often times our body will send us warning signs that we can heed or simply ignore. I believe in the adage "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." So when I meet women who tell me they have a family history of breast cancer and know they should being doing things to manage their breast health but elect not to, because they prefer not to know if something is wrong, I am left speechless. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths, after lung cancer in women. If you had a blister on your foot would you not do something about it instead of letting it fester into a serious wound? Of course you would. That is why it is so important to follow the American Cancer Society guidelines to have annual mammograms after the age of 40 (or younger for women with a family history of breast cancer), have annual clinical exams and even do monthly breast self exams to know your body.

When my friend of thirty plus years told me she had been diagnosed with breast cancer last month my heart stopped. This was the first time someone so close to me had heard those words "you have breast cancer." I asked if she had any indications of something wrong - an unfamiliar lump, skin discoloration, swelling or a strange secretion from the nipples. She told me this cancer was discovered through her mammogram and she was now scheduled for a lumpectomy the following week.

After further discussion she shared that she had not had a mammogram in two years. At a concert on the National Mall grounds she and a stranger discussed a variety of topics and one thing led to another. She told the stranger she had not had a mammogram in two years. This stranger happened to be a double mastectomy survivor and told my friend to schedule her mammogram immediately. I'm listening and thinking "have you not heard anything I've been saying for the past 15 years?" Apparently not, but I'm glad God sent an angel to my friend to get her moving.

She then disclosed to me that she had been diagnosed with DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ) three years ago. DCIS is the most common non-invasive breast cancer. It is non-invasive because it has not spread outside of the milk duct into the surrounding breast tissue. It is considered a Stage 0 cancer, and treatment is removal of the cancer cells and surrounding margins.

I'm now floored as she continues to tell me she never said anything because she did not want me to worry and make a big deal about it. She is correct, in that I would make a big deal about it. Having been diagnosed with DCIS, her risk factors had increased for breast cancer to reoccur or create a new breast cancer, which is where she now finds herself. Delaying her mammograms was not a good plan of breast health management.

The entire conversation made me realize that no matter how much we preach, teach or reach out to others, the ultimate caretaker of one's health is you. People will only tell you what they want you to know, and will only do what they are not afraid to do. If there is any drop of fear in their mind about a health issue, that drop grows into a puddle, river, of ocean of fear that makes it harder each day to act on what one knows they should do.

Fear is a state of mind that creates a physical reaction of no action. The challenge we as a community face is to defuse the natural fear of hearing the word "cancer." Over 96% of women diagnosed early with no metastatic breast cancer (cancer that has not spread to other organs from the original site) survive 5 years or more. For the hundreds of thousands of women who proudly proclaim "I am a survivor" they are living testaments that there is life after breast cancer. Don't let fear steal your life.

I explained to my dear friend that because she has now been diagnosed with breast cancer, her daughter's risk factors have increased. The women in her family now have a higher risk factor. This information needs to be shared, because so many women believe there is no history of breast cancer in their family. We must be willing to speak openly about breast cancer in order to help others in our family manage their breast health. The time for silence on this issue needs to end.

My friend has just begun her journey with breast cancer. Her journey is now my journey, because she is my sister.

How to Deal With Breast Cancer

Cancer is a life threatening disease caused by rapidly growing atypical cells. In turn, these cells can destroy normal neighboring cells and tissues. What makes cancer so deadly is when it metastasizes or spreads to vital organs like the liver, bones, or lungs. The fast growing cells would grow from there and can eventually compromise the organ that could later lead to death.

In the US, the leading cause of cancer deaths in women is breast cancer. The cancer usually starts at the milk producing ducts hence called ductal carcinoma. These can also occur on the lobes of the breast and this is called lobular carcinoma.

As with all types of cancer, detecting breast cancer at its early stages is the key to a successful treatment. Therefore, regular self breast examination is recommended for all women starting at the age of 20. Clinical breast examinations should also begin around this age, done every three years. On the other hand, yearly mammograms are advocated by age 40.

The first symptom of breast cancer is usually felt as a lump on the breast. About 80% of all patients with breast cancer are discovered this way. Other signs and symptoms are an inverted nipple, irregular breast shape or breast size, nipple discharge, and skin changes referred to as Peau d' orange or orange peel where breast skin resembles the skin of an orange.

Treatment depends on the stage at which the cancer is found. There are 4 stages:

The first stage has the best prognosis because the cancer is still within the breast. Surgical removal of the tumor and the surrounding tissues is done with radiotherapy. Little or no chemotherapy is done and risk of recurrence is minimal.

In stage 2, the cancer may or may have not spread to the lymph nodes. In stage 3, the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes. Both stage 2 and 3 have poor prognosis. A mastectomy or removal of the whole breast is done combined with chemotherapy or radiotherapy. The risk of recurrence is high.

During stage 4, the cancer has already metastasized or spread to other areas. This stage requires chemotherapy as an initial treatment to shrink the tumor and surgery is done if required.

Women diagnosed with breast cancer are not only concerned about the life threatening disease itself but also losing one or both breasts. Losing a body part is very disheartening. Another main concern is hair loss that is a side effect of cancer chemotherapy. For women, the hair signifies beauty, what more if the breast is removed.

A good way to deal with these difficult times is to prepare the patient's family to encourage a positive atmosphere in their homes. In addition, the patient can join help groups to address emotional and psychological issues. This enables them to mingle with other patients that have a similar condition and share experiences.

Inflammatory Breast Cancer

Inflammatory breast cancer, known only by some doctors and men and women who have been diagnosed with this rare form of cancer, are aware of its existence.

As any woman who is knowledgeable about how to check for breast cancer will tell you, they check regularly for lumps. That is what we have been told to do. That, and getting annual mammogram scans.

But IBC is amongst us, and has been for quite awhile. It is a rare type of breast cancer, and the need for knowledge on this issue should be highly publicized. Because by the time a woman, and in some cases men know, when the symptoms rear their ugly head, it is usually in a very advanced stage.

How do I know? I learned the hard way.

My 37 year old healthy athletic daughter has just been diagnosed. In just a few months she went from knowing she was very healthy, to the reality that IBC had invaded her body. My daughter has besieged me to write about this form of cancer. To get the word out to women and men about this untalked about cancer, IBC. Did she have symptoms? Not the type we are all told to watch for. She has related the below to explain what happened in her case.

"I had been working out for about 8 months, with a trainer. All the other women in my workout class were getting fit and trim, but I just got heavier and seemed to build muscle in my arms, legs and breast. In April of 2003 I decided to quit the weights and the workouts and try to shed some of the pounds, which I did quite quickly. I lost 25 to 30 pounds rapidly.

That's when I noticed that the nipple on my right breast seemed slightly inverted and it was bigger than my left. Being right handed, I thought it was from all the weight lifting and shedding of pounds that caused this oddity.

In May I noticed that the right breast was a little harder than the left, but no lump, no pain, nothing to signal what I had been told all my life to watch out for. It was a gradual thing, this lopsided look that I was seeing in the mirror.

I began the search for a Doctor in the small town I had moved to just the year before. By the time I found one that would take my insurance, it was September and the first day of my vacation. I saw a nurse practitioner who took one look at my enlarged right side and immediately called for a mammogram and ultrasound that same day. I will never forget the woman that took the scans. She flippantly said, Oh, she's done.

The very next day I saw a surgeon who did a deep core biopsy, a needle biopsy and a skin biopsy. Before he even got the results back he told me he believed it was cancer. He walked out of the room and started making phone calls, then came back and said I was to see an Oncologist the next morning.

The Oncologist had seen the biopsy already, and told me I had Inflammatory Breast Cancer. After years in nursing school and also pharmacy training, I had never heard of IBC. I learned that day how invasive this rare form of cancer is, that I was 'classed at stage 4.

I was immediately scheduled the next day for surgery to implant a portable catheter in my left chest wall and told I was going in for a PET scan the next week to see if the cancer had spread to any other parts of my body. The scan came back positive for right arm lymph nodes and my liver. The Chemotherapy that had been scheduled was changed to now attack the liver also. On October 3rd I started the first round of massive doses of cancer fighting drugs, six grueling hours of IV bags dripping into the portable catheter, Herceptin, Taxol, and Carboplatin."

My daughter was told by the many clinical savvy medical personnel, "Why in the world did you wait so long?" The why is the reason for this writing. The why is because we are not told about the symptoms of this fast moving form of cancer. Only if you go looking for information about IBC do you find the articles, the symptoms and the support groups from the many women world wide that found out about IBC the hard way. And there are still many Doctors that will treat a patient like my daughter with antibiotics before ever realizing what they have right in front of them.

The word INFLAMMATORY in itself suggests just an infection for the lay person.You ask yourself, if this was me, would I know that I could have breast cancer. Before that day in September when my daughter called me, I would have said no, maybe I have an infection in a milk duct or some other thing. With no lump as we are told to look for, your mind doesn't really kick in if you're unaware of IBC.

BE AWARE! Not just in October when it's Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but all the time. Ask your Doctor, put it in a search engine, read about it. Know what the signs are.

From the articles and research papers which I have read till my eyes burn, I have found people with this rare disease offer assistance and emotional support. They also have urged that the public awareness of this disease needs to be put on the front page, not at the bottom of a list.

There are many statistics of the prevalence of breast cancer, how to watch for it, how to check for it and what the gruesome regimen of chemotherapy, removal of the breast, then radiation are clinically required. Inflammatory Breast Cancer actually has been around for many years, but because of it's rareness, it isn't talked about that much. BUT IT SHOULD BE.

Age of women who get it vary, but from this writers research it seems that this occurs to women and some men in their early productive years. Treated just as the name implies An Inflammation, many doctors are in the dark when the mammogram comes back clear, and even in some incidences, a biopsy can come back normal. The patient on the other hand knows something isn't right, and in many cases only relies on her Doctor for guidance. But there it lurks in the system, triggered by an unknown cause. Researchers say it isn't hereditary.

There was one case in Castro Valley California, where 3 women were diagnosed with IBC and they all worked in the same place. The Doctor who treated these women has cried out for funding to find the cause in this particularly incident, because they all worked in a lab and were all close to the same age. But, because IBC is so rare, funding did not come quick enough.

Is Breast Cancer a Cancerous Tumor?

Breast cancer is a cancerous tumor that begins with abnormal cells in the breast. It is a type of cancer that is commonly associated with women, although men can also develop it. The most prevalent type of breast cancer is ductal cancer, where cancer cells form in the lining of the ducts that transport milk to the nipple. Other forms begin in the lobules (glands) or other tissue. Initial signs of breast cancer are small lumps or tenderness. If these lumps are found under the arm near the lymph nodes, there is a higher chance that the cancer has spread.

There are primarily two types of breast cancer, which are either in situ or invasive. In situ means that it is a noninvasive cancer that has not broken through tissue and thus spread to other areas. Invasive however, is marked by its invasion of other breast tissue and the ease with which it can metastasize to other parts of the body. Invasive cancer is also known as infiltrating cancer. Most cancers in the breast are carcinomas, meaning they start in the lining of an organ. An invasive carcinoma has broken out of the original layer of cells from which it started.

In terms of diagnosing breast cancer, statistics show that routine screening and increased awareness of cancer facts are the two main factors in catching the cancer early and thus increasing the survival rate.

Doctors recommend that women over 40 have a mammogram every year. Women aged 20 to 39 should have a clinical breast exam at least every three years. Starting at age 20, women should conduct breast self-exams to look for changes in feel or appearance. Since there are few breast cancer signs other than a change in look or feel, early diagnosis relies on good screening.

Advancements in cancer treatment allowed today's women more choices in terms of treating breast cancer. Treatment may be localized through surgery or radiation, or maybe systemic as with chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and adjuvant or neoadjuvant therapy.

While many advancements have been made in terms of surgical interventions, many women often have to make the choice for surgery. Whereas years ago women would have had no choice but to have a full mastectomy, today women can choose instead to have a lumpectomy so as to salvage as much of the breast as possible. There are also natural treatments that can be used as complementary or alternative treatments.

Breast Cancer Symptoms - What Are They and How Can I Get Rid of Them?

I imagine just about every woman after a certain age has some fear of breast cancer.  That's not to say it's on our minds night and day.  But with all we hear in the media and from doctors, it certainly has to be in there somewhere.  We all know someone who has it, has had it, or maybe has even died from it.  But as with all things like this, breast cancer starts with symptoms.  Here's what to look for if you're concerned and what to do to fix it if you find anything:

Lumps - Everyone knows this one.  Any odd shaped, irregular lumps in your breasts that you haven't noticed before could be a symptom of breast cancer.  They're normally painless, and usually not cancer, so don't panic.

Discharge - Any kind of spontaneous, clear or bloody discharge from one or both nipples.

Retraction - Any indentation or retraction of the nipple that wasn't there before.

Size - Any noticeable change in size or contour of the breast can be a symptom of breast cancer.

Flattening - Any flattening or indentation of the skin over the breast.

Redness - Any redness or pitting of the skin over the breast (it looks like an orange peel) can be cause for alarm.

Now...these are symptoms.  They don't mean you have anything.  This would normally be the time that you would be strongly advised to schedule a mammogram to find out for sure.  Whether or not you do that is entirely up to you.  Through my various research, I've been convinced that mammograms will usually do more harm than good, but the decision is ultimately up to you.

What I would suggest at this point is some good old fashioned education.  breast cancer doesn't just appear out of nowhere.  It's your body's way of telling you that everything is not right.  You're out of balance.  You're likely very acidic.  You have low oxygen levels.  You use lots of commercial personal care products.  Live or work under fluorescent lights.  Don't get nine hours of sleep in total darkness.  Don't get enough sunlight.  Don't drink enough water.  You may have a weakened immune system.  There are lots and lots of reason these symptoms may have cropped up. 

If you can reverse the conditions that have caused them in the first place, they will go away.  If you choose to blast everything will mammograms, chemotherapy drugs, and radiation, you may kill any cancer, but if the underlying conditions are still present...you know it'll come back.

Just be sure to educate yourself whatever is going on.  If you have any of the above breast cancer symptoms, don't panic.  Learn about all the different treatment options available to you before you rush into anything.  Everyone and their dog will pretend to be an expert on breast cancer, but unless you really find out for yourself, you'll never know what's best for you.

Breast Cancer - Early Warning Signs

There are potential warning signs of breast cancer, how to identify them, and most importantly - what to do about it.

One of the most frightening experiences during self-examination is when a woman finds a lump in her breast. The good news is that most of the time a lump doesn't indicate cancer. But, lumps are still the most common warning signs of breast cancer, and should be examined by a doctor immediately.

Additionally, any change in the size or shape of your breast should raise alarm bells as well. Redness of the skin, flattening skin, indentations of your nipple, and unexpected discharge from your breasts are all potential symptoms of breast cancer.

While these symptoms may not always point to breast cancer, it is incumbent upon every woman to seek medical advice whenever any of the above conditions are noticed. In some cases, your doctor may ask you to have a sonogram of the breast to ascertain if there are any cysts or unusual areas on the mammogram that need further inspection.

Mammograms are by far the most effective method for early detection and treatment of breast cancer.

It's recommended that you have an annual mammogram if you're over the age of 40, or if you have a history of breast cancer in your family. You should also consult with a health care professional to help determine how frequently you should have a mammogram as well.

A mammogram is simply an x-ray of the breast. While it is not painful, it can be a bit uncomfortable. However, it is an extremely effective procedure for identifying warning signs of breast cancer while still in its early stages.

Always be aware of the risk of breast cancer. If you notice any symptoms during the self-examination process or if you have a history of breast cancer in your family, don't hesitate to visit your health care provider. Identifying the symptoms early can literally save your life.

Breast Cancer - Herbal Treatment

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, with roughly 175,000 new cases reported each year. Conventional treatment for breast cancer generally consists of chemotherapy, radiation and surgery, depending upon the extent of the disease. Some women are now opting for a more natural treatment regimen, either in conjunction with the chemotherapy and radiation, or with herbs alone. Some of the following herbs are currently being used for women with breast cancer, with promising results.

Astragalus root, Maitake mushrooms, echinacea and ginseng are used to boost the immune system, which is clearly not functioning properly in an individual with cancer.

Black cohosh, red clover, chasteberry and turmeric are herbs that are high in phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens are a form of estrogen that block the stronger, more damaging estrogens. They work by fitting into the same receptors in breast cells that estrogens do, thus preventing the estrogen's ability to fit there. Chasteberry also may inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells.

Silymarin, an extract of milk thistle, and also a powerful antioxidant, has shown promise for fighting breast cancer. Silymarin also provides an added benefit of protecting the liver.

Some cancer-fighting nutrients that can be added to the diet include green tea, garlic and onions. Studies have shown that the organic ingredient of garlic, allyl sulfur, is effective in inhibiting or preventing cancer development. Green tea acts as a powerful antioxidant and stimulates the immune system. It can be either drank in tea form, or taken in a standardized capsule.

Herbs such as bloodroot, don quai, juniper and mandrake may help reduce breast cancer cell growth.

Burdock root acts as a powerful antioxidant. It helps to protect against cancer by helping control cell mutation. It also aids in elimination of toxins. Burdock purifies the blood and stimulates the digestive and immune systems.

In addition to herbs that are taken orally, homemade cancer creams may be placed on the affected breast or breasts. These creams contain extracts of herbs and work by promoting a separation of the tumor from the tissue that supports it. Cancer creams are applied to skin tumors or the skin over internal tumor sites. The ingredients differ, but usually are mixed in an oily base like beeswax, olive oil, butter or pine tar, which allow the active ingredients to penetrate the skin. Ingredients may include bloodroot, cleavers herb, lobelia, chickweed, cayenne, DMSO, chaparral, Irish moss, comfrey, marshmallow, myrrh, birch bark and mullein.

As with any health care regimen, consult your doctor or naturopath to determine the correct herbs and dosages for you.

Causes, Symptoms and Diagnosis - Breast Cancer

Causes of Breast Cancer

The risk increases with your age. It may also be hereditary. At some point of time 1 in 10 women develop breast cancer. The chance of developing it increases after menopause. If you had early puberty or late menopause, you had your first child after your age touched 30 then you may get breast cancer. The chances reduce if you had your first child before 18 years of age, you had a short menstrual cycle, you have a large family.

Symptoms of breast cancer

Some breast cancer may not have symptoms at all. Some of the symptoms are lumps, rash, breast pain, cysts, nipple discharge, and inverted nipple.

Why diagnosis is important

Breast cancer may kill you, so you should find it out as soon as possible. Early diagnosis will help you in many ways. Self examination and examination by health professionals are very important.

Breast Cancer Diagnosis

How will your doctor confirm to you if you have breast cancer? Doctors will use different tests to confirm that you have breast cancer. These tests are MammographyExcision Biopsy UltrasoundNeedle AspirationNeedle Biopsy After the tests doctor may refer you to specialists or specialty hospitals for any further treatment or test. Other tests may be done there or repetition of the tests may be done again for confirmation.

What will you see in the self examination?

Check for any changes in shape or size, presence of any lump, any type of nipple discharge, tenderness in the breast. Make a monthly routine self examination of your breasts.

Is it serious?

Breast cancer is serious. It is very serious and can cost you your life. Early detection will help you a lot as early detection and treatment increases the chance of treating you successfully.

How to Calculate Your Risk For Breast Cancer

Using known risk factors for breast cancer, mathematical models can be developed to help answer important questions. These mathematical models are useful tools for researchers and for patients as follows:

1. Research on risk factors - The Claus risk assessment model was used to discover the subpopulation of people who had an autosomal dominant genetic allele that increased their risk from 10% to 92%. This led to the discovery of the BRCA genes associated with breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer.

2. Clinical trial eligibility - The Gail risk assessment model was developed to help researchers determine who to enroll in the NSAPB Breast Cancer Prevention Trials

where chemoprevention was shown to reduce breast cancer risk.

3. Guidelines for doing BRCA testing - BRCA testing is very expensive and practically worthless if done on everyone (because it is so rare to be homozygous for BRCA1 or BRCA2). Mathematical models such as the BRCAPRO, BOADICEA, and Tyrer-Cuzick models can help determine what patients should undergo BRCA testing. The decision for testing is usually made when one of these models predicts a 10% or greater chance that there is a mutation of the BRCA1, BRCA2, or both genes.

4. Guidelines for doing MRI screening for breast cancer - MRI screening for breast cancer is not a cost effective screening test for the general population, but in specific groups, there are clear cut reasons to do so. In general, screening MRI is recommended for women with 20-25% or greater lifetime risk of breast cancer. The BRCAPRO and Tyrer-Cuzick models have been used to help make clinical decisions about ordering MRIs for breast cancer screening.

5. Guidelines for breast cancer therapy - The Gail model is used clinically to help

determine who should be put on tamoxifen or raloxifene for chemoprevention. Other models have been used to help make decisions about breast cancer risk reduction with prophylactic mastectomy.

For these reasons, it is important to understand these models. These models are collectively referred to as "risk assessment tools". The following paragraphs summarize the most popular and most widely used risk assessment tools. Keep in mind that none of these risk assessment tools apply to breast cancer survivors. No mathematical model has been widely accepted to determine cancer risk in cancer survivors.

General Risk Assessment Tools

Gail Model: The Gail model is a validated risk-assessment model that focuses primarily on nonhereditary risk factors, with limited information on family history. It was developed by scientists at the National Cancer Institute and the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP) to assist health care providers in discussing breast cancer risk to determine their eligibility for the Breast Cancer Prevention Trial. The tool allows one to project a woman's individual estimate of breast cancer risk over a five-year period of time and over her lifetime. It also compares the woman's risk calculation with the average risk for a woman of the same age. The Gail Model is an on-line quiz that has 13 questions and is interactive. This calculator is based on published risk statistics and methods gathered from peer-reviewed journals, and has been extensively tested for its validity.

The major limitation of the Gail model is the inclusion of only first-degree relatives, which results in underestimating risk in the 50% of families with cancer in the paternal lineage and also takes no account of the age of onset of breast cancer. It may underestimate risk in certain groups, such as obese patients.

National Cancer Institute Model: The NCI risk assessment tool is essentially a simplified Gail Model that also factors in race. Race is a factor in determining breast cancer risk but is excluded when determining eligibility for clinical trials. This tool is probably the most popular risk assessment tool available to the public as an on-line, interactive risk calculator. The on-line quiz is a shorter, nine-point questionnaire that includes multiple factors, giving a woman her future five-year risk of breast cancer and her lifetime risk of breast cancer.

The NCI tool does not account for a lot of risk factors that can be modified. For this reason, it is difficult to use this test as a motivation tool to show people how lifestyle can alter their risk of breast cancer. It also cannot be used in breast cancer survivors, in patients with DCIS, LCIS, or people who carry one of the BRCA genes.

BRCAPRO model: This is a statistical model available as a computer program that uses two different algorithms to evaluate family history and helps a doctor determine the likelihood of finding either a BRCA1 mutation or a BRCA2 mutation in a family. The results of this can be used to determine if BRCA testing is indicated. This is very useful in light of the high cost of BRCA testing ($3,000). None of the nonhereditary risk factors can yet be incorporated into the model, however. In a comparison of four different methods for estimating breast cancer risk in patients with a family history of breast cancer, the BRCAPRO model was the least accurate. It predicted only 49% of the breast cancers that actually occurred in the screened group of patients with a family history of breast cancer.

Harvard Center for Cancer Prevention Risk Assessment Tool: This is another breast cancer risk assessment tool that includes more lifestyle factors than the NCI or Gail Model tools. It has not been studied as extensively as the Gail Model or the simplified NCI model, but it is promising in that it includes many lifestyle factors that people can do to modify their risk of developing cancer. It is also an on-line questionnaire that can be used by both women and men to estimate their breast cancer risk.

Making all this practical

Now after a thorough and confusing discussion of all these statistical models, it's time to make all this information practical. What is the best way to help a patient accurately assess her risk of breast cancer and if possible, show her what positive factors are reducing her risk and what negative factors can be changed to reduce her risk? If possible, it would also be great to show the patient the value and indications for testing, imaging, chemoprevention, and in some cases surgery. A discussion of the practical aspect of each of these is addressed in a Q & A format below:

Q: What (free) online programs can be used to help a patient assess their risk of breast cancer?

A: Several of the risk assessment tools mentioned above can be accessed for free by the public. Here are the tests and their websites:

1. Your Disease Risk - English version: www.diseaseriskindex.harvard.edu

This is a great interactive questionnaire that calculates five-year and lifetime risk of breast cancer developed by the Harvard Center for Cancer Prevention and made public online in 2000. In 2005, they launched the Spanish version of the site, "Cuidar de su Salud". The risk calculator includes lifestyle factors such as weight, dietary vegetables, alcohol intake, as well as Jewish ethnicity. It does not include other ethnicities, however, and is not accurate for BRCA mutation carriers or breast cancer survivors. Despite these issues, this is by far the best free online risk calculator since it is very interactive and gives you a personalized description of your risk in the form of a colored bar graph, which they can electronically manipulate to experience "virtual" risk reduction. The bar graph is a seven-level scale that compares users to a typical man or woman your age. Users learn where to focus their prevention efforts and how to make lifestyle changes by "clicking on" personalized strategies. With each click, the bar graph shrinks, and the user watches his/her predicted risk drop. This is a great concept to motivate people to participate and comply with lifestyle modification measures.

2. The NCI Risk Assessment Tool -regular web: www.cancer.gov/bcrisktool

This is the easy to use, on-line questionnaire based on a modified Gail model that also includes ethnicity. It does not factor in a personal history of breast cancer, DCIS, or LCIS. It does not account for other factors such as BRCA status, hormonal replacement therapy, lifestyle factors, breast feeding, menopause, or mammographic density. Despite these issues, it is a very useful tool that gives a woman her five-year and lifetime risk of breast cancer. It is the only risk assessment tool that can be used via mobile handheld devices (any type). A version of this can be downloaded for PDAs with Windows Pocket PC operating system as well.

Q: What programs can be used to help a doctor make decisions about ordering a breast MRI?

A: The American Cancer Society has developed some very good guidelines for breast cancer screening with MRI. It should be emphasized that MRI is an adjunct to mammography, not a replacement. Some programs can be used to help in clinical decision making. Please look up the American Cancer Society website.

Be Aware of Breast Cancer - Don't Be Too Busy or Too Young - Don't Let it Be Too Late!

The petit blonde girl in front of me was struggling to keep her emotions in check "I'm going to cry and I don't want to cry because it's going to ruin my make up" she said. Little did she realise that I too, behind the camera, was also struggling to keep my composure. It had been an emotional day one way and another but now as we neared the end of the shoot and the realisation of what we had achieved was beginning to hit home we were both in danger of "losing it". Allow me to explain...

I first met Sheryl a little over two years ago when she booked us to undertake her wedding photography. Originally she wasn't going to have a photographer, not because of the cost involved but because it didn't rate very highly up her list of things she needed in order to enjoy the wedding she wanted. Her wedding date was set for the end of July and she had it all planned to perfection, 12 bridesmaids a quiet civil ceremony in York register office, followed by a wedding breakfast at the Dean Court hotel, near the Minster and then her evening reception on a boat along the River Ouse. What could possibly go wrong? Unfortunately she had no idea of the double whammy that fate was going to deal her which would change her life forever.

Sadly Sheryl's much loved dad was terminally ill with cancer. The prognosis was not optimistic that he would make her wedding day. Struggling to cope with this as it was and spending her days between her home, hospital and her parents house Sheryl didn't give much thought to the lump she thought she may have felt in her breast - after all just in her early 30's she was much too young for it to be anything serious and anyway her breasts felt "like a bag of marbles" at the best of times - it was probably nothing. With her wedding day rapidly approaching Sheryl was so busy and pre-occupied she didn't rush to the Doctors. When she did however the news was devastating. The Doctor was worried and referred her for a lumpectomy. The lumpectomy confirmed she had breast cancer and only 3 short weeks before her wedding Sheryl had a mastectomy.

Suddenly everything in life changed for Sheryl. Faced with her own mortality her entire outlook changed and recording the joy on her wedding day became a number one priority for her - we were engaged to undertake the responsibility of recording these precious memories. What an honour and pleasure it was to spend such a day with Sheryl and her family. We witnessed the same drive and bravery in her dad not to give up as we know to be present in Sheryl and everyone spent a happy day together. Those photographs rate amongst some of the most precious we have ever taken.

As breast cancer awareness is promoted in the UK I have persuaded Sheryl to share with us in her own words, a blow by blow account how those dreadful first few months unfolded and her thoughts, fears and experiences as she has faced her own mortality head on. She is a remarkable lady and her story is one bound to inspire and encourage anyone who today may be facing a similar trauma.

"It was a Thursday afternoon in February, nothing special working all day, looked in my diary oh no I've a hospital appointment at 3.20pm, must ring the childminder tell her I maybe late, gosh what a nuisance, having to go for test results, I'll only be there five minutes, yeah your fine Sheryl, just a cyst, but I am only in my early thirties, so it can't be anything else.

I had noticed the small lump in my right breast in the October, I had just found the man of my dreams and had lost a little weight, so I didn't take much notice, then in November whilst putting on some body lotion noticed that it was still there, but left it for that month cause it was my period, then came December, oh I'm too busy with Christmas to go to doctors, I'll go next month, oh wow a chance for some winter sun in January, oh that lump's still there, promise I'll go next month... so here we are it's the end of February and I'm tapping my leg whilst sat outside the doctors consulting rooms, looking at my watch oh get a move on, I've got 2 children and a partner who will want feeding soon...

Hi Sheryl, would you like to come through, I sat down still wishing she would hurry up... Sheryl, I'm sorry we have found cancer cells and I need to perform a lumpectomy. Oh ok, when do you want me to come in, I've got a holiday booked for April, and I can't miss that, just send me an appointment. Sheryl do you understand you have breast cancer, I then looked over at a nurse who was also in the room but I hadn't even seen her there, and she was nodding to confirm that what the doctor had said was true...

But...I'm only young, But... I've got two children, But... I'm getting married, But...I don't smoke, But... I'm healthy

The numbness then set in, and I don't remember much after that, I was given some appointments and the operating day was fixed, and then went home and made the kids tea. The lumpectomy was preformed and it was OK nothing too scary, I was in and out in a couple of days, I didn't have cancer, I kept telling myself because obviously I was too young, didn't smoke and was healthy and my life was too busy for cancer. After 2 weeks my results from the lumpectomy came back, there I was again in the same office as last time, still getting impatient cause I had stuff to do, Sheryl. I'm sorry... oh no them words again, I've heard this line, what now...

I'm sorry but we have found more cancer tumours within the lumpectomy, I need to advise you that you need a full mastectomy on your right breast, I turned to my left to look at the nurse, and again she was nodding. All my 'Buts' hadn't worked, oh no this was real, I had breast cancer. "

Almost two years on and I'm pleased to say that Sheryl is doing really well and so far very healthy with no recurrence of her cancer being detected. The friendship formed between us in those difficult early days is for life and we have kept in touch with Sheryl ever since, including photographing her best friends wedding in Cyprus only last year.

Sheryl has always said to me that she would like to experience one of our boudoir photo shoots but felt she was lacking the confidence that she once had following her mastectomy about the way she looks. As a photographer I am used to people saying things to me along the lines of "You won't get a good picture of me - no-one ever does." When I photograph people however I try to capture something of the character of the subject and not just what is on the surface. With Sheryl it was easy to photograph the inner beauty which radiates from her but also a couple of the pictures show the outline of her cleavage and unless she told you no-one would be able to tell which of her breasts has had reconstruction surgery. For Sheryl seeing the pictures were the moment that some of her inner demons were finally put to rest.

The day of the shoot was the first time, since her surgery that Sheryl felt confident enough to undress in front of her husband. That to me was such an achievement from such an emotional day. Sheryl has kindly agreed to allow us to use some of her words and tell her story in the hope that this difficult to talk about subject can be aired to a wider audience and someone, somewhere may just feel inspired and given renewed hope from her experience that there is life after breast cancer.

Copyright (c) 2010 FNS Weddings

How Surrogates Help Breast Cancer Survivors

As Breast Cancer Awareness Month nears the end of October, pink ribbons provided a reminder and moment of silence for those touched by cancer while offering a medical cue to schedule a mammogram. Decades ago, it was a disease plagued by stigma. But with celebrities having spoken out about their personal experiences with their own breast cancer surgeries, treatments and reconstruction procedures, the stigma has been demystified and women have become empowered.

Cancer does not discriminate. It affects women of all ages, including those who are still in their reproductive years. When a woman hears such a diagnosis, following the shock and fear, she glances ahead at what awaits her which may include surgeries, radiation, and chemotherapy.

As the executive director of an international egg donation and surrogacy agency, some women who are unable to become pregnant and carry their own children may require a surrogate after having undergone cancer treatments. While some women are able to become pregnant after treatments, there are a group of women who face infertility.

Each patient is unique and so is the treatment her medical experts may recommend. Nevertheless, if a woman has not started or completed having her family, she comes at a crossroads after her diagnosis. Through the remarkable strides of third-party reproduction, before a woman begins her treatments she has the choice to harvest her eggs and have them frozen.

Rather than being reactive regarding any future infertility issues, women can now be proactive. In addition to teaming up with her medical specialists, she can also partner with a fertility doctor if she desires children in the future.

The mere act of harvesting a woman's eggs can be quite beneficial for her psychologically. While breast cancer has the ability to make a woman feel that she has lost all control, on the road of preservation fertility, she feels in control with a renewed sense of hope and something to look forward to: a baby.

Once a breast cancer patient becomes a breast cancer survivor, the timing is perfect to begin building a family. As mentioned earlier, while some women are able to become pregnant at a later date, others may be unable to become pregnant or carry a baby to full term.

And this is where a surrogate can step in and help a survivor. Women who want to become surrogate mothers do so for their own personal reasons. And one may very well be helping a woman who has fought the fight of breast cancer and is ready to rekindle that light of hope in having a baby.

To be able to help a woman who has endured multiple surgeries and treatments is immeasurable to a surrogate. And conversely, a survivor cannot begin to find the right word of thanks to say to their surrogate for the priceless gift of a baby.

The surrogate's picturesque moment is of an intended mother holding her newborn for the very first time. It creates the memory of a lifetime.

Surrogates help break down breast cancer barriers by helping survivors live the full life they were meant to have through motherhood.

Breast Cancer - How Dangerous Is It?

Breast cancer or tumour is a dangerous health condition which must not be overlooked. This condition begins insidiously but ends up destroying more cells and organs than one could ever imagine. It is therefore important for every woman above 20 years of age to have her breasts examined from time to time.

What exactly is breast cancer?

It is the cancer that occurs in the breast tissues, especially in the ducts and lobules. It is not only limited to the females alone: it also occurs in males, though not very common.

The human body has a mechanism for regulating cells and tissues proliferation. This mechanism ensures that old tissues serve their life span and then die off to be replaced by newly produced ones. This helps to make sure that only the number of useful cells is maintained by the system at any given time.

However, there are situations whereby the hormone in charge of this balance gets things wrong and allows the cells to multiply in excess. The old cells that need to die off are still there and new ones are created. This excess leads to the formation of lumps or abnormal tissue which may be different from the parent cells or are distinguishable from the surrounding tissues. When this occurs, a tumour or cancer is said to have occurred.

Tumours occur in different parts of the body such as the brain, colon, testes, lungs, bones, etc. but when it occurs in the mammary gland it is referred to as breast cancer. However, it must be noted that not all tumours are dangerous to one's life. This is because some of them do not grow beyond the mere tiny growth you see and they do not also spread to other organs of the body.

Types of Tumour

Tumours are basically of two types - Benign and Malignant. The benign tumours, otherwise known as innocent tumours are those ones which do not grow excessively; they do not infiltrate other cells or tissues and they are not likely to recur after they are removed. Most times they are easily removed by chemotherapy or other methods of treatments without posing any danger to health.

Malignant tumours otherwise known as Cancers are the ones that do a great damage to one's health because they are able to invade and destroy tissues. They spread to neighbouring tissues and even to more distant sites through the lymphatic system and the blood. It alters the tissues of other organs by replacing them with its own cells. It is metastatic. Most times it is difficult to control them with chemotherapy especially if not detected on time and treatment started early.

So when the breasts are involved, the primary place of growth starts in the ducts or the lobules. This could sometimes bring about discharge of milk even when the individual is not breastfeeding.

What are the Types of breast cancers?

These include invasive cancer, ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), papillary carcinoma and colloid carcinoma. Papillary and colloid carcinomas are not as dangerous and invasive as the DCIS.

What are the symptoms of breast cancer?

1. Hardening of the breast tissue

2. Dimpling in the breast tissue

3. Retracted nipple

4. A change in shape or size of the breast

5. Red, scaly, swollen skin over the breast, nipple or areola

6. Pain or tenderness over a portion of the breast, nipple or areola.

The afore-mentioned signs and symptoms are indications that one may have breast cancer. However, they are not conclusive since other conditions can mimic this condition by presenting similar signs as well. Therefore the best thing to do when you notice any of the symptoms is to quickly see your doctor for thorough investigation.

Breast Cancer - Get Yourself Screened!

Breast cancer is one of the top cancers among women. Most of us would know someone who has, or has had breast cancer, and with the ongoing media coverage of the condition, women are becoming increasingly aware of the condition. National breast screening programmes, dedicated breast clinics, advances in modern treatment methods together with ongoing research, all play their part in the early detection and successful treatment of breast cancer.

Screening For Breast Cancer Would Include:

1. Breast Self-Examination: Large scale studies have found that breast self-examination (BSE), when used for screening, did not reduce mortality rates from breast cancer. However, it is felt that BSE does improve women's awareness of their own breasts, thus allowing any changes to picked up earlier. BSE also helps improve women's awareness of breast cancer.

There are 2 parts to Breast Self-Examination:

(i) LOOK: Look at your breasts in the mirror to check for any changes. This should be done in various positions, such as leaning forward, holding your arms up in the air and with your hands pushing in on the hips. Compare both breasts.

Look for changes on the skin of the breasts (colour, dimpling, a lump or pulling in). The nipples should also be inspected for retraction, inversion, dryness or ulceration.

(ii) FEEL: Many women find it easier to do this while having a bath, because water and soap make it easier and may enhance detection of lumps. Feel all parts of your breasts with the flat of the palm and fingers, for areas that may be different from the rest (such as a lump, a band of hard tissue or a tender area). Remember to also check under the nipples and up into the armpits.

2. Clinical Breast Examination: Women who have found any change in their breast/breasts should consult their doctors for a clinical breast examination.

3. Mammography: The basic idea behind breast cancer screening, or any other screening for that matter, is that it allows for detection of the breast cancers before they become large enough to be felt. Early detection and treatment generally results in better treatment outcomes.

Mammography screening is widely accepted as appropriate and beneficial for women above the age of 50. In Singapore, the recommendations by the Ministry of Health for Breast Cancer Screening are as follows:

Asymptomatic women 50 - 69 years

All normal risk, asymptomatic women 50 - 69 years should have screening mammograms only every 2 years.

Asymptomatic women 40 - 49 years

Women aged 40 - 49 years with no significantly increased risk, should discuss the benefits, limitations and potential harms associated with screening with their doctors before making a decision on whether or not to have screening.

Asymptomatic women < 40 years

Normal risk, asymptomatic women under 40 years of age do not require breast screening.

Asymptomatic women > 70 years

Unlike in Western nations, where evidence supports mammographic screening every 2 years in women 70 - 75 years of age, the incidence of breast cancer in this age group among Singaporean women is significantly lower. As such, screening mammography may be less beneficial. Asymptomatic women in this age group should discuss the potential benefits and risks of screening with their doctor.

The following groups of women should consult their doctor about screening for breast cancer:

• Women who have increased genetic risk for cancers

• Women on hormone replacement therapy

• Women with prior breast cancer

• Women with premalignant breast conditions

Stage 2 Breast Cancer Survival Rates

Stage 2 breast cancer is different from the other stages of cancer of the breast. Before discussing the survival rates for the said stage of the disease let us first go back and describe a little how cancer of the breast is staged.

Stages of cancer of the breast are being assigned depending on the following:

• How insidious the cancer is?

• How many lymph nodes are occupied by the type of cancer?

• Has the cancer cells spread to other parts of the body?

• What is the tumour size?

According to the National Cancer Institute Statistics, There is a 5 year survival rate of 88% - 92% if the cancer of the person diagnosed has not yet spread to the lymph nodes, and if its diameter is under 2 cm.

The cancer of the breast is on the stage 2-A if the diameter of the tumour is above 2 cm but below 5 cm and 2-B if it has spread on the lymph nodes already. For stage 2-B, the survival statistics for it falls to 76 to 81 percent. There is a huge chance of survival on the earlier stage. Stage 1 cancer of the breast is an impressive 98 to 100 % chance of survival, which is why early detection is very crucial.

There are numerous prevention steps you can carry out in order to avoid this malignant disease. Mammograms and monthly self - checks are on hand for every heath care centres.

The sad part about breast cancer survival rates is that it does not vary on other countries. There is no exception. People around the globe, women in particular are at risk of obtaining this type of disease. While breast cancer is most commonly diagnosed among women, it can also among men populace.

There are different risk factors as to how t is being acquired; lifestyle is on top of the list. Health is wealth; maybe you have heard this reminder a million times already. However, given the fact that breast cancer awareness are abundant everywhere, people tend to always do what is contradicting to one's health code.

Stage 2 breast cancer survival rates are still quite impressive compared to other types of cancer with the same stage. Treatments and improved methods have helped a lot in boosting its statistics. The stage of cancer, once determined in an earlier stage, plays a very important role in order to allocate appropriate cure for the diagnosed patient; however the only thing that can thump early detection is still knowledge and prevention.

Breast Cancer Symptoms - What to Look Out For

Normally, the first symptom of breast cancer for most women is a lump in one of their breasts. Most lumps, 9 out of 10 or 90% of lumps turn out to be benign. Benign means that they are not cancerous. Most benign lumps found are:

• Breast cell changes, these cause lumps are more obvious in women just before their menstrual cycle, period, particularly in women over the age of 35.


• Fibroadenoma, which is a collection of fibrous glandular tissue, these are more common in younger women.


• Cysts, these are fluid filled sacs found in the breast and are common in women of all ages.

Changes to look out for, which could be due to breast cancer, are:

• A lump of thickening in an area of the breast


• The breast changes shape or size


• The skin becomes dimpled


• Nipple changes, such as inversion, where the nipple turns in on itself and sinks into the breast, or the nipple changes shape and become irregular.


• Discharge from the nipple, particularly if its blood stained or yellowish/greenish in color.


• A rash appearing on the nipple or surround area.


• A lump or swelling appearing in your under arm, armpit.

As with breast lumps, talked about above, these signs do not necessarily mean cancer. All of the above symptoms can be due to other medical issues. But the main thing to note is that, if you have any of these symptoms, please consult your doctor as soon as possible. It may well be a benign issue that can be treated easily. A trip to the doctor will either put your mind at rest or at worst, if you have a cancerous issue, you will be giving yourself the best chance of a successful treatment, as an early diagnosis is vital in fighting cancer.

Two other types of cancer are worth mentioning here that do not sit in with the above symptom lists:

• Inflammatory breast cancer - The whole breast can look very red and be sore and tender to the touch. The breast may also feel hard to the touch and the skin can sometimes look like an orange peel effect because the pores stand out in the inflamed area.


• Paget's disease - the breast will take on a red, scaly rash, which is normally itchy. This often looks like eczema and is sometimes misdiagnosed for that at first

If you find a lump

See your doctor straight away. If you notice anything unusual about your breast, have it examined. Even though most breast lumps are benign, they need to be checked to rule out cancer.

Breast Cancer - The Enemy

Cancer is an abnormal growth of cells which most often reproduce rapidly and in a very uncontrolled manner. Cancer cells also often metastasize or spread to other healthy cells in your body. Cancer can attack anyone at an any age or gender or race. It is the second leading cause of death in the United States with heart disease being the leading cause. The most common cancer diagnosed is skin cancer. However gender specifically the most common cancer found in men is prostate and the most common cancer in women is breast cancer.

Breast cancer is when the abnormal growth of cells originate in the breast tissue. Breast cancer affects both men and woman but is way more prominent in women. Symptoms of this disease are: a lump or abnormal tissue change in the breast, blood discharging from the nipple, unexplainable size or shape changes in breast, skin abnormalities and consistent unexplainable redness to the skin on the breast, skin also may be pitted like the skin of an orange. If you feel any abnormality in your breasts do not wait to see your doctor. A routine test called a mammogram, which squeezes your breast flat to look at the tissue inside with a low density x-ray, can be run to detect abnormal cells. A woman should have a mammogram every one or two years, especially women in their 40's and older. Most breast cancer can be detected by a mammogram before it is detected by hand, and the earlier it is found the better the prognosis.

Inflammatory breast cancer or IBC is a rare type of this disease but a extremely aggressive one. This type of breast cancer grows very rapidly and most often metastasizes very quickly. Symptoms of IBC are mostly the same as with breast cancer but also the skin tends to get red, swollen and very warm like it is inflamed. Skin color can also be pink, purplish, or looked bruised. Most women with IBC feel burning, pain and tenderness in the breast, and also develop swollen lymph nodes. If you detect any of these symptoms it is extremely important you act as quickly as possible as IBC is again extremely aggressive. The IBC survival rate is much lower than with breast cancer because it has usually metastasized by the time of the diagnosis.

Treatment is usually chemotherapy followed by radiation or hormone therapy. However not all cases warrant the same treatments. No diagnosis of cancer is a death sentence. It is best to try to stay positive and do all you can to beat the disease. There are many support groups set up to help lift peoples spirits and let them know they are not alone in their battles. The Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation is leading the fight against breast cancer by raising awareness and money for the disease. Pink ribbons are the universal symbol for the disease.

What Is A Breast Cancer Tumor?

This article will bring you revelation on how a breast cancer tumor affects the human body and where it is located. More women die of breast cancer every year than of any other cancer related deaths. Recent figures show that cancer already or is about to surpass heart disease as the number one killer of Americans. I have information about breast cancer and other related diseases on my website located in the resource box below.

What Is Breast Cancer?

First of all, malignancy tumor means a group of cells that may invade nearby tissue or even spread or (metastasize) to other areas of the body. In other words, if a woman or even a man is diagnosed with breast cancer, then they have a malignant tumor.

What Makes Up The Structure Of A Breast?

For you to get a better understanding of where breast cancer tumor gets it start, I will reveal the internal parts of a breast:

Lobules- Milk producing glands

Ducts- Tiny tubes that carry the milk from the lobule to the nipple

Stroma- Fatty tissue and connective tissue surrounding the ducts and lobules also blood vessels and Lymphatic System.

Where Is The Cancer Located Inside Of The Breast?

Ducatal Carcinoma- This is the most common form of breast cancer tumor and is located within the ducts and hasn't spread through the walls of the ducts to the surrounding tissue.

Lobular Carcinoma- Is a breast cancer tumor that is located and stays within the milk producing glands, but does not go through the walls of the tubules.

Sarcoma- Is a type of cancer that has their origin from connective tissues such as fat or blood vessels. Sarcomas of the breast are rare.

Invasive Carcinoma- Most breast cancer tumor are invasive carcinoma. (IC) is one that has spread from other cells than where it first started.

The Lymphatic System

The Lymphatic System is very important in regards to breast cancer because the breast cancer tumor can travel down the lymph vessels (mini veins except they carry lymph or clear fluid) to the lymph nodes (small bean shaped collections of immune system cells) or to other areas of the body. Lymph itself is made up of waste products, immune system cells, and tissue fluid. Almost all lymphatic vessels in the breast join with lymph nodes under the arm. In addition, lymphatic vessels connect to lymph nodes inside the chest cavity and to those either below or above the collarbone. There is more information on cancer and other health disease located at the website in the resource below. I will keep you updated on more information as it is uncovered.

DISCLAIMER

The information provided herein should not be construed as a health-care diagnosis, treatment regimen or any other prescribed health-care advice or instruction. The information is provided with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in the practice of medicine or any other health-care profession and does not enter into a health-care practitioner/ patient relationship with its readers. The publisher does not advise or recommend to its readers treatment or action with regard to matters relating to their health or well being other than to suggest that readers consult appropriate health-care professionals in such matters. No action should be taken based solely on the content of this publication. The information and opinions provided herein are believed to be accurate and sound at the time of this publication based on the best judgment available to the authors. However, readers who rely on information in this publication to replace the advice of health-care professionals, or who fail to consult with health-care professionals assume all risks of such conduct. The publisher isn't responsible for errors or omissions. The Food and Drug Administration have not evaluated these statements. These products aren't intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.