Pastor Deborah's Health Tip

What is Breast Cancer?

The body is made up of cells that move through phases much like life itself. They grow, function, age an die. A cell's behavior is controlled by its genes. When the genes don't work correctly, the he cells can grow out of control. This uncontrolled growth can turn into breast cancer. Genes can start a cancer for any number of reason, including the wear and tear of living.

Breast cancer is not your fault.

What Do You Need To Know?

* 8 out of 10 of all breast lumps are non-cancerous.

* 85% of breast cancers are diagnosed in early stages, which increases the chance for cure.

* Women discover the majority of breast lumps when they do a breast self-exam.

* Mammograms can detect breast cancers early, when they are the most treatable.

* Most doctors recommend a mammogram every year after age 40.

* Ultrasound is not a substitute for mammography.

* A variety of breast biopsy methods are available. Women can get an accurate diagnosis without the need for surgery.

Are You At Risk For Breast Cancer?

The risk for breast cancer increases with:

* Aging.

* Early onset of menstruation and late menopause.

* A family history of breast cancer - especially if it was your mother or sister.

* Women who never get pregnant.

* An unhealthy diet (high fat, low in fiber), too much alcohol and not enough exercise.

* Smoking.

* Obesity.

Early Detection Saves Lives!

Breast cancer is discovered by feeling a lump or by using an imaging technique to look inside the breast (a mammogram or ultrasound)

* 60% of breast cancers can be felt. 25% of all breast cancers are only found by palpation.

* 75% of breast cancers can be found by mammography. 40% of breast cancers are only found by mammography.

The rest are detected by both. Once detected, the only definitive way to determine breast cancer is by removing a sample of breast tissue, also known as breast biopsy.

Breast Cancer Is Treatable.

Not all breast cancers are the same. That is why treatment varies from woman to woman. Most often, a combination of approaches to remove or kill the abnormal cells and prevent further growth are used, which may include:

Mastectomy - removal of the entire breast.

Lumpectomy - removal of the breast lump.

Radiation - treatment with complex radiation equipment.

Lumpectomy - removal of the breast lump.

Chemotherapy - a group of drugs that can be given through a vein, with a shot or by taking a pill.

Hormonal Therapy - treatment that reduces the amount or blocks the effects of estrogen which is responsible for stimulating the growth of some breast cancers.