About
Breast Cancer:
Breast cancer is a type of uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells
that can develop in one of several areas of the breast, including
the ducts that carry milk to the nipple, the small sacs that produce
milk (lobules) and the nonglandular tissue.Breast Cancer is
estimated that 192,200 women and 1,500 men in the United States will
be diagnosed with Breast cancer in 2001. Though rare in men, Breast
cancer accounts for 31% of all cancer diagnosed in women. Breast
cancer is a disease in which cancer cells are found in Breast
tissue. There are numerous types of Breast cancer. For example,
ductile cancer, found in the cells of the ducts, is the most common
type of Breast cancer. Cancer that begins in the lobes or lobules is
called lobular cancer. Treatment will depend on the type of Breast
cancer and stage of the disease. There are also many non-cancerous
(benign) Breast diseases as well.
Symptoms of
Breast Cancer:
1.A lump or thickening in the breast or under the arm.
2.A clear or bloody discharge from the nipple.
3.Crusting or scaling of the nipple.
4.Nipples that don't stick out (inverted).
5.Redness or swelling of the breast.
6.Dimpling on the breast skin resembling the texture of an orange.
7.A change in the contours of the breast, such as one being higher
than the other.
8.A sore or ulcer on the skin of the breast that does not heal.
Causes of
Breast Cancer:
The exact cause of cancer remains a mystery. Over twenty percent of
those who have cancer never know why. The primary parts that are
involved are the natural parts of food, tobacco, occupational
hazards, genetic composition and food additives. Other agents that
have been linked with cancer are ionizing radiation, chemicals in
the air and diet, vitamin deficiency, high-fat diet, stress and
environmental conditions.
Diagnosis:
Biopsy: Used to diagnose tumors, a biopsy tests cells removed
surgically or through aspiration for microscopic examination.
Cytology test: A test that shows the shedding of abnormal
cells. A good example of a cytology test is pap smear.
Imaging techniques: low dose x-rays such as those used in a
mammogram can detect early Breast cancer. Ultrasound scanners can
also produce images of organs.
Chemical testing: Detect the presence of blood in the feces
or elevated levels of enzyme acid phosphates in the blood.
Ultrasound: A new ultrasound technique used after a mammogram
can help reduce uncertainty about whether a Breast mass is cancerous
or not.
Home Care Suggestions:
-Avoid tobacco in all forms, synthetic hormones, particularly
estrogen, excessive alcohol, caffeine.
-To minimize hair loss apply cold packs to the scalp while taking
radiation or therapy.
-Engage in mild exercise such as walking and make it part of your
daily ritual.
-If you ever receive a serious diagnosis of any kind, one of the
most important things you can do is to free your mind of daily
concerns.
More Detail About Breast Cancer
Author By Michal John
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