Health
Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the breast. It is considered a heterogeneous disease, meaning that it is a different disease in different women, a different disease in different age groups and has different cell populations within the tumor itself. Generally, breast cancer is a much more aggressive disease in younger women.

Breast cancer is not exclusively a disease of women, however. Approximately 1,700 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 450 will die each year. The evaluation of men with breast masses is similar to that in women, including mammography.

Common symptoms of breast cancer include:

· A change in how the breast or nipple feels
You may experience nipple tenderness or notice a lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the underarm area.
· A change in how the breast or nipple looks
This could mean a change in the size or shape of the breast or a nipple that is turned slightly inward. In addition, the skin of the breast, areola or nipple may appear scaly, red or swollen or may have ridges or pitting that resembles the skin of an orange.
· Nipple discharge

.
Breast Self-Examination

In the Shower
Fingers flat, move gently over every part of each breast. Use your right hand to examine left breast, left hand for right breast. Check for any lump, hard knot or thickening. Carefully observe any changes in your breasts.

Infront of Mirror
Inspect your breasts with arms at your sides. Next, raise your arms high overhead.
Look for any changes in contour of each breast, a swelling, a dimpling of skin or changes in the nipple. Then rest palm on hips and press firmly to flex your chest muscles. Left and right breasts will not exactly match - few women's breasts do

Lying Down
Place pillow under right shoulder, right arm behind your head. With fingers of left hand flat, press right breast gently in small circular motions, moving vertically or in a circular pattern covering the entire breast. Use light, medium and firm pressure. Squeeze nipple; check for discharge and lumps. Repeat these steps for your left breast.
An Early Breast Cancer Detection Plan should include:
· Clinical breast examinations every three years from ages 20-39, then every year thereafter.
· Monthly breast self-examinations beginning at age 20. Look for any changes in your breasts.
· Baseline mammogram by the age of 40.
· Mammogram every one to two years for women 40-49, depending on previous findings.
· Mammogram every year for women 50 and older.
· A personal calendar to record your self-exams, mammograms, and doctor appointments.
· A low-fat diet, regular exercise, and no smoking or drinking.

 

 
All content © 2000-2007
Email admin@aagneyam.com with any problems.