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Breast Health
Are Self Breast Examinations Important?
Does Breast Cancer Have Symptoms?
How is breast cancer diagnosed?
What can I do to prevent breast cancer?
Breast cancer is abnormal cells that are or can grow uncontrollably, they are called cancers. It is one of the most common cancers in women. It is a treatable and a curable disease especially when caught early. This is why women are encouraged to have screening mammograms and clinical examinations ... because early detection is the key to a cure. Breast cancer usually starts as a small lump and with time if left alone the lump can grow and spread to nearby areas. The tumor can spread to the lymph nodes, skin and to other organs such as the liver, brain, lungs, and bones.
Are Self Breast Examinations Important? Self Breast examinations should be part of your monthly health care routine, you have more access to your body than anyone else so you can notice change faster than anyone else. You should visit your doctor if you experience breast changes. If you're over 40 or at a high risk for the disease, you should also have an annual mammogram and physical exam by a doctor. The earlier breast cancer is found and diagnosed, the better your chances of beating it.
Does Breast Cancer Have Symptoms? Good question ... symptoms vary from none to extensive pain. If caught early you may not even have a palpable mass. The cancer or tumor may be a radiographic finding on a mammogram or ultrasound. If caught at a late stage the tumor may be easily palpable or even seen through the skin easily. Cancer of the breast in it's earliest stages are usually painless but if left to grow can invade structures and cause pain. Finally, symptoms can vary — from lumps to swelling to skin changes: and can be painful or painless. Please note many breast cancers have no obvious symptoms at all. Also remember symptoms that are similar to those of breast cancer may be the result of non-cancerous or benign conditions like infection or a cyst.
How is breast cancer diagnosed? The diagnosis involves an examination by your doctor. Having a radiographic evaluation by mammogram or ultrasound, and finding out the histologic information on the cells by obtaining a tissue sample either by removing the lump or doing a biopsy of the area. The process of diagnosis can take days to weeks and can involve several different tests. Waiting to find out what you have can be very difficult, but once you and your doctor have these basic answers you can make better decisions concerning treatment.
What can I do to prevent breast cancer?
Breast Cancer Health Center
Breast cancer is 90% curable when caught early. Get in-depth information here about breast cancer, its symptoms, stages, and promising treatments. Plus, meet breast cancer survivors in our online support groups. |
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