Breast Cancer Causes and Treatment
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.
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