Facts About Breast Cancer
February 8th, 2012 | 
Author: Get 10 facts about breast cancer from an expert doctor in this article from Lifescript.com, a top website for women’s health information.
Here’s a sneak peek at the facts included in the full 9-page article:
#1: Breast cancer is the second-leading cancer in women, after lung cancer. It’s the most common cancer second only to skin cancer.
#2: Detecting breast cancer early on is key because when cancer hasn’t had a chance to spread beyond the breast(s), survival rates over a five-year period are nearly 100 percent. By the age of 40, women should perform self-exams monthly, and have annual mammograms and breast exams performed by a physician.
#3: Mammography is the top way to detect breast cancer. Because of increased mammography use, more women than ever are getting diagnosed in the early stages of their breast cancer. Twenty-five percent of breast cancers are found in breast exams — 40% by a combination of breast exams and mammography and 35% by mammography alone.
#4: You can check yourself for possible signs. The most common signs of breast cancer include: Changes in the feel or look of the nipple, changes in the feel or look of the breast(s) and/or nipple discharge.
#5: Mammograms might not be enough. A doctor might recommend you get an MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, in addition, or other imaging options may be recommended such as stereotactic, positron emission tomography, ultrasound, or scintigraphy and lymphatic mapping.
#6: There are numerous factors associated with increased risk of getting breast cancer, but their presence doesn’t mean you’ll get the disease. Nor does their absence mean you will be protected, either.
#7: Two genetic mutations called BRCA1 and BRCA2 boost risk of breast cancer. Women who have these mutations in their genes often have an increased risk of getting breast cancer.
#8: Racial and ethnic differences affect your risk of breast cancer, most likely due to inherited risk factors, or differences in screening rates or medical care. Caucasians have the most incidences of breast cancer while Native Americans the lowest.
#9: Monitoring diet and getting exercise can help. Weight gain after the age of 18 or after menopause boosts your risk. Losing weight can lower your breast cancer risk factors.
#10: Hormone replacement therapy can potentially boost risk of breast cancer, according to recent research.
For much more on the above facts and more vital cancer information you should know, check out the full article at Lifescript.com.
The information contained in this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not, nor is it ever intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice or professional recommendations, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician(s) or other qualified healthcare provider(s).
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