Breast cancer is a malignancy of the ductal system or lobes of the breast. Men and women are susceptible; 207,090 women and 1,970 men were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010, according to the National Cancer Institute. As the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women, breast cancer issues are abundant.
Pyschosocial Impact
Regardless of their age, no one is mentally prepared to hear that they have breast cancer. Women and men may worry about the impact the disease will have on their family, their bodies and death. Frequent discussions of feelings, fears and prognosis, either with a health care professional or loved one, may decrease the psychosocial impact.
Treatment Time
Many treatments are available for breast cancer, even though it is an incurable disease. Radiation and chemotherapies kill cancerous cells, but these treatments involve doctor's appointments and treatment, followed by downtime for recuperation, the National Cancer Institute notes. Surgeries for breast cancer, including mastectomies and lumpectomies require hospitalization and loss of work time. Life does not stop for cancer; the issues surrounding loss of work, home and personal time impact all cancer survivors.
Survival Concerns
Due to the plethora of treatment options, doctors are less likely to focus on survival, or prognosis, and are more likely to expend energy on focused therapy. The National Cancer Institute states that prognosis is impacted by many factors including the type and stage of breast cancer, current health and age. Still, the ever-hovering question of "how long do I have" lingers in the minds of many.
Finances
Issues surrounding financial stability impact many with breast cancer, the Breast Cancer Network of Strength notes. Some women do not research treatment options and are unaware that some treatments may not be covered by insurance companies. For instance, a lumpectomy, or a surgery to remove a small portion of breast, may not be covered by the insurance whereas a mastectomy, or a complete breast removal, is covered and paid in full. Oral chemotherapy agents and pain medications may cause a large pharmacy bill for those who lack coverage.
