According to breastcancer.org, breast cancer affects 13 percent of women in the United States. Information, medications and support are available if you are suffering with breast cancer.
Features
Breast cancer refers to the uncontrolled growth cells in the breast. As the cells accumulate, tumors form. These tumors can be benign (nonlife threatening) or malignant (fatal). When the tumors are malignant, this is breast cancer and the cells can metastasize.
Risk Factors
The cause of breast cancer is still unknown, but there are numerous risk factors. According to breastcancer.org, there are controllable risk factors such as weight, diet and smoking, and uncontrollable risk factors such as like family history and being female.
Tests
Breast cancer is diagnosed in various ways. A mammogram, ultrasound and MRI allow doctors to see the breast tumor. A breast biopsy is taken to stage the cancer and determine how far it has spread.
Treatment
Various treatments exist to treat breast cancer. Surgery involves removal of all or part of the breast. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy destroy breast cancer cells. Hormone treatment such as Tamoxifen manipulates hormones that promote breast tumor growth. The choice of treatment depends on the extent of the breast cancer.
Prevention
According to the Mayo Clinic, you can take steps to help lower your breast cancer risk. Do daily breast self exams, exercise, decrease alcohol intake and limit hormonal therapy. Schedule mammogram screenings annually starting at age 40.
