According to the World Health Organization, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. It is a kind of cancer that is found on the breast tissue of one or both breasts. Breast cancer has claimed 500,000 lives worldwide which is an alarming number. In addition, the incidence of breast cancer is rapidly on the rise due to urban expansion and late diagnosis. According to cancer experts, prognosis and survival is largely based on the type of cancer and the diagnosed stage of cancer.
Prevention
Although the specific cause of breast cancer is
unknown, there are certain potential risk factors that are involved. Factors
include lifestyle, genetics, hormones, body structure and other medical
conditions. According to the American Cancer Society, prevention and early
detection of signs and symptoms are the best ways to decrease the risk of
breast cancer.
The first method of reducing the risk of breast cancer
is a healthy lifestyle. Maintaining an appropriate weight, avoiding alcohol and
cigarette smoking, and proper active exercise are some ways to lessen the risk
of breast cancer. These lifestyle changes will greatly decrease your chance of
having breast cancer especially for women that have a history of cancer in their
family.
Breast Cancer Detection Techniques
The World Health Organization strongly recommends
early detection techniques in order to prevent the disease. These strategies
will help decrease the risk of breast cancer. Regular screening for breast
cancer is the most effective way of diagnosing the disease. Diagnostic tests
such as Mammography screening are very important and effective to diagnose
breast cancer as early as possible. This diagnostic test reduced the mortality
rate of women with breast cancer around the world.
Unfortunately, mammography screening is not always
available for all breast cancer patients specifically in low or middle income
countries. In those countries, BSE or breast self-examination is the most
preferred substitute and is highly encouraged. It is also a way of increasing
awareness of women on breast cancer. BSE involves palpating the breast for
lumps or irregularities. By inspecting, observing and feeling the breast for
early signs and symptoms regularly, women are empowered to take actions and
responsibility for a healthier lifestyle.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
The first
common symptom of breast cancer is usually presence of lump that is unusual
among the rest of the tissues. These irregularities can be felt on the breast
or armpit. If you think that you have abnormalities or lumps present, you might
consider contacting your physician. Just remember that you have to perform
Breast Self Examination every month at the same time and day. Being aware of
the symptoms and early detection will determine the chance of survival.
