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Posted on 12.03.07 @ 4:30 pm
Scientist from all over the world got together at the Science of Cancer Health Disparities conference in Atlanta, Georgia to discuss the differences in breast cancer when it comes to the race of culture of the person that has the disease. They covered from the best way to treat depending on where you are located all the way to how the differences can cause more complications when it comes to how Breast Cancer attacks. *snippet from the article* We know that breast cancer is a disease with a range of risk factors, including genetic and behavioural, but over the years researchers have observed these risks are often complicated by social and racial differences. In the investigation that Pham and colleagues carried out, it appeared that Asian patients tended to have the attitude that the breast did not need to be preserved. The Asian culture seems not to emphasize the breast and its appearance, and this is believed to be an important factor in many Asian women choosing to have a mastectomy rather than a lumpectomy, was the view of the majority of doctors who took part in a survey. *end of snippet* The main issues at hand were whether or not the various types of breast cancer that are out are the best options for every race and culture. Asian women may be better off using mastectomy instead of lumpectomy. Which is why majority of Asian women choose that procedure for removal! |
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Posted on 11.20.07 @ 7:46 pm
Just about every man and woman on the planet has heard the term “breast cancer” unfortunately the number of men or women that actually know and understand what Breast Cancer does is truly staggering. Breast Cancer is a disease where cancer cells form in the breast tissue. There is a specific term for breast cancer which is “Heterogeneous Disease”. Heterogeneous disease means that it is a different disease in different women. It is also a completely different disease for women in different age groups. When in younger women breast cancer tends to be a much more aggressive disease. Breast cancer is also the most common cancer for women in the united states with the exception of Skin Cancer. Over 200,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year alone. Not to mention more than 40,000 will die. Breast Cancer isn’t only found in women however. Men can develop breast cancer and it is estimated that over 1700 men will be diagnosed and over 450 will die by years end. Risk Factors Of Breast Cancer No one truly knows the exact causes of breast cancer. Though there is research to show the type of women that are more likely to develope it.
Symptoms In most cases the early stages of breast cancer do not cause pain. So it can be hard to detect without active checkups and mammograms.
Early Detection Plan In order to be sure you catch the cancer early (if you develop it) you should have a early detection plan which should include the following.
How to do a Breast Self-Examination
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.
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.
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. |
