Breast Health

It 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. A Breast has 15-20 sections called lobes, which have many smaller sections called lobules. Thin tubes called ducts connect lobes and lobules. 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. So, two women with the same type of Breast cancer may have different treatments and a different prognosis because one is more advanced than the other. There are also many non-cancerous (benign) Breast diseases as well.

Self-testing for Breast cancer; Stand in front of a mirror and raise your hands high over your head, pressing them together. Observe the shape of the Breasts. Next, place your hands and press, watching for any dumpling of the skin on the Breast or the nipple that appears out of their normal positioning. Also, look for any thickening of the skin or nipples or redness. Raise one arm over your head and with the other free hand manually feel the Breast, beginning at the outer edges, using a circular movement. Gradually move in towards the nipple. Make sure to completely feel the armpit area as well. Lymph nodes are located in this area and will move freely and feel soft. Lumps that are hard and immobile are to be especially looked for. Repeat this process on the other Breast. Then lie on your back and gently squeeze the nipple, checking for yellow or pink discharge. Doing a Breast self exam in the shower is recommended because lumps are easier to detect on a wet, soapy surface.

Eat a low fat diet high in fiber and complex carbohydrates. Foods such as cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower are thought by some to prevent Breast cancer. Do not eat charred or burnt food. Never eat moldy or rancid food. Don’t smoke. Do not drink alcohol heavily. If cancer runs in your family get an annual check up and watch for any warning signs of the disease. After the age of forty get an annual mammogram. Obesity has been linked to Breast cancer. Stay at an optimum weight for your height and frame. Avoid unnecessary x-rays. In some countries where Breast cancer is low, iodine content in the soil is high; therefore, an iodine deficiency may be linked to the incidence of Breast cancer. Have your home checked for radon gas levels.

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.

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.

Specific anti-cancer foods include, onions, garlic, yam, cruciferous vegetables, legumes, rice, potatoes ,yogurt, fish, ea vegetables and sea food, apples carrots and tomatoes.

Avoid tobacco in all forms, synthetic hormones, particularly estrogen, excessive alcohol, caffeine. Get some sunlight on the body every day possible. 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. Try to resolve anything that is weighing on your mind so you can concentrate on healing. Avoid negative emotions. Take time each day to meditate and enjoy surroundings. Cultivate a positive mental attitude.