Breast cancer is a serious issue that will affect almost every women worldwide, either directly as someone diagnosed with cancer, or indirectly through the illness of a loved one. Because of this, it is important for all women to learn as much as possible about breast cancer such as the possible causes of this type of cancer, its symptoms, how to diagnose breast cancer and how to treat this form of cancer.
Breast Cancer Statistics
Aside from nonmelanoma skin cancers, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. In 2006, approximately 212,920 new cases of invasive breast cancer were diagnosed in the United States alone. Worldwide, North American women are the most at risk for developing breast cancer, but every woman has a one in 8 chance of developing it within her lifetime. This is a very scary statistic.
Most women believe that when they are young, they’re not at risk for breast cancer, but that’s not necessarily the case. Women who carry the breast cancer gene will often develop breast cancer in their twenties or thirties. Early detection is very important in the fight for survival against breast cancer and it’s important for women of all ages to perform breast self-examinations, and once they are of age, depending on their family history, go for a yearly clinical breast examination and mammogram. Find out what the breast cancer Risk in Young Women really is, and then discover the answer to the question, Should I be Worried about Breast Cancer?
If you’re wondering about the impact of environmental factors on your risk of contracting breast cancer, read up on Plant Estrogens. You'll be surprised to find out just how many food preservatives, toxins, pesticides, pollutants, and other chemicals you come in contact with in your daily life--and which may affect your risk of developing cancer. Choosing a healthier lifestyle is a great way to minimize your risk for cancer and a whole host of other common diseases.
You’ll also want to be aware what the chances of getting a False Positive on a breast lump biopsy are. Remember that it’s always a good idea to get a second opinion.
Breast Cancer Diagnosis
If you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer, learn about the various treatment options such as lumpectomy, mastectomy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and eventually, surgical reconstruction. Read an article about Herceptin, a drug treatment option that may benefit some patients with breast cancer. The more you know the better you will be able to understand your doctor and ask the right questions to be sure that you are getting the best treatment possible.
If you're thinking about which treatment option is right for you, you may want to consider some factors that can help you in the process. What would make lumpectomy surgery the right option for you?
Breast cancer treatment can increase the risk of developing certain conditions in the future. Find out what the symptoms and management options of lymphedema are.