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DESCRIPTION
Cancer of the breast is the leading cause of cancer death for women in the United States. Every year, about 180,000 people are diagnosed as having breast cancer. 43,000 of those with breast cancer die each year. Only lung cancer kills more women under the age of 54 than breast cancer, but if breast cancer is detected early, the five-year-plus survival rate is about 95 percent. According to the American Cancer Society, one in nine women will get breast cancer before she is 85 years old. Breast cancer is rare before age 30, and the peak ages are from 45 to 65. The incidence increases after menopause.
The human breast is a gland that contains milk ducts, lobes, fatty tissue, and a network of lymphatic vessels. Cancerous tumors can arise in virtually any part of the breast, and are most often detected when a woman feels a lump.
FINDING A LUMP: Just because you may find a lump in your breast, doesn't necessarily mean that you have breast cancer. Eight out of ten lumps are benign, or not cancerous. If you discover a persistent lump in your breast or any changes in breast tissue, it is very important that you see your health care provider immediately. Many times fear keeps women from aggressive health care. Sometimes women stay away from medical care because they fear what they might find. Take charge of your own health by monthly self-exams, regular visits to your health care provider, and regularly scheduled mammograms.
The diagram to the right illustrates some common non-cancerous breast anomalies. Although these may feel like lumps to the touch, they should not be cause for concern. However, only your health care provider can diagnose these conditions and suggest treatment. The bottom line is, if you detect something out of the ordinary during your monthly breast self-exam, see your health care provider immediately. Early detection always is the best form of prevention.
CANCEROUS LUMPS: In general, cancerous lumps are malignant growths of breast tissue that are firm, never go away, and are usually (though not always) pain-free. The vast majority of breast lumps are not cancerous (benign cysts or fibroid masses), but there is no way to tell without a professional's examination. A lump that seems to be growing or does not move when pushed may be cancerous, or may simply be caused by normal fibrocystic changes during the menstrual cycle. A biopsy is required to identify the lump. Breast cancer cam cause a yellow, bloody, or clear discharge from the nipple. Breast cancer spreads to nearby lymph glands, lungs, pleura, bone (especially the skull), pelvis and liver.
Many people think of breast cancer as a single entity, but there are actually different types of the disease. Some of the types of breast cancer include the following:
- Adenoid cystic carcinoma, malignant cytosarcoma phylliodes, medullary carcinoma, and tubular carcinoma. These and sever other relatively uncommon types of breast cancer tend to be less aggressive than the other forms.
- Infiltrating ductal carcinoma. This is a cancer that arises in the lining of the milk ducts and infiltrates (invades) the surrounding breast tissue. Approximately 80 percent of all cases of breast cancer are infiltrating ductal carcinomas.
- Inflammatory carcinoma. In this type of cancer, a tumor arises in the lining of the milk ducts and, as it grows, it plugs the lymphatic and blood vessels. The skin thickens and turns red, and the breast becomes extremely tender and looks infected. This type of cancer spreads very quickly due to the rich blood and lymph vessel supply associated with the inflammatory reaction.
- Intraductal carcinoma. This is a localized type of cancer in which cancerous cells grow within the ducts. This type of cancer may not invade other tissues.
- Lobular carcinoma. A less common form of breast cancer that arises in the lobes. It accounts for about 9 percent of breast cancers. Lobular carcinomas usually occur in both breasts simultaneously.
- Paget's disease of the nipple. This form of cancer occurs when cells from an underlying cancerous tumor migrate to the nipple. The symptoms are itching, redness, and soreness of the nipple. Paget's disease always signals the presence of primary ductal carcinoma elsewhere in the breast tissue.
Men can also get breast cancer, but they account for fewer than 1 percent of breast cancer cases. However, while it occurs less frequently, breast cancer in men is usually diagnosed at a later time than women, and therefore at a more serious stage because neither health care providers nor their patients tend to suspect it.
It is important to detect breast cancer in its earliest and most curable stage. Making healthy changes in diet and lifestyle, examining your breasts regularly, and having regular mammograms can increase your chances of avoiding or, if need be, overcoming, breast cancer.
MoonDragon's Obgyn Procedures: Breast Self-Examination
FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
No symptoms in early stages, but pre-symptom stages may be detected by a mammogram.
Swelling or lump in the breast.
Vague discomfort at the breast without true pain.
Retraction of the nipple.
Distorted breast contour.
Dimpled or pitted skin in the breast.
Enlarged nodes under the arm (late stages).
Bloody, yellow, or clear discharge from the nipple (rare).
CAUSES
There is probably no single answer as to what causes breast cancer, but the female sex hormone estrogen is the most likely culprit in many cases. Estrogen promotes cellular growth in the tissues of the breasts and reproductive organs, and cancer is a disorder of unrestrained cellular growth.
Some risk factors that have been identified for breast cancer include a family history of the disease, beginning the menstrual cycle before age 9, onset of menopause after age 55, having a first child after age 40 and having no children.
Environmental factors may be involved in the development of breast cancer as well, among them exposure to such hazards as radiation and pesticides and the use of breast implants. Although the use of silicone/polyurethane implants - silicone-filled implants coated with polyurethane - has been banned since 1992 because of concerns about their safety, an estimated 200,000 American women still have these implants in their bodies. Polyurethane releases a human carcinogen known as toluene diisocyanate, or TDA, which was banned for use in hair dye long before the controversy over breast implants arose. Silicone has been shown to cause malignant tumors in test animals. Further, even if there were no potential danger from the implants themselves, breast implants can make it harder to detect breast cancer in the earlier stages because they may hide some breast tissue, interfering with the ability to take and interpret mammograms properly.
RISK INCREASES WITH
Controlling risk factors is the best way to prevent breast cancer. Although some risk factors cannot be avoided (being female, having a family history of the disease, time of onset of menstruation and menopause), there are some actions people can take, including attaining and maintain a healthy weight, eating a low fat diet, reducing alcohol intake and breast feeding for longer than 12 months.
Early menstruation before the age of 9; late menopause after the age of 55; first pregnancy conceived late during their fertile years, after the age of 30 to 40, depending upon medical resources.
Women who have not had children or who have had few children.
Obesity also increases a woman's risk of developing breast cancer, and obese women tend to have higher levels of estrogen in their bodies than thin women. Similarly, eating a high-fat diet has been associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, and when a woman eats a diet high in fat and low in fiber, her body produces more estrogen.
Women who are taking oral birth control containing estrogen or women using hormone replacement therapy using estrogen supplementation for menopausal symptoms.
One thing all of these risk factors have in common is that they result in the breasts being exposed to more estrogen for longer periods.
Family history of breast cancer (especially mother or sister). Heredity is a factor in breast cancer. There are certain types of the disease that clearly run in families.
Previous benign tumors of the breast (fibrocystic disease).
Women over 40 to 50, post-menopausal women.
Previous breast cancer in one breast.
Radiation exposure.
Patients with endometrial or ovarian cancer.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
Monthly self-examination of breasts for signs of cancer. Breast Cancer Self Test
It is essential that women examine their own breasts every month past age 20, preferably during the first week after menstruation. Do not examine the breasts during the menstrual period. Become familiar with the look and feel of the breasts so that any changes can be detected.
The breast self-exam should follow these three steps:
1. While standing in front of a mirror, press the hands together over the head and look at the shape of the breasts. Place hands on the hips and look for any dimpling, irritation, changes in the nipples, changes in the size of each breast or thickening or scaling on the breasts.
2. Raise one arm above the head and firmly explore the breast with the opposite hand using a circular motion. Work from the outer edge inward toward the nipple. Examine the nipple and armpit as well. Look for lumps that are hard and do not move. After fully examining one breast, repeat this step on other side.
3. Lie down on the back and repeat step 2. Also squeeze each nipple to check for blood or any discharge.
For more detailed instructions with graphics:
Obtain professional examinations regularly.
Obtain a baseline mammogram between ages 35 to 40. Have mammograms every 1 to 2 years to age 49 and annually after age 50.
Eat a well balanced diet that is low in fat. (Studies are inconclusive about high-fat and breast cancer risks in humans.)
If you are pregnant, consider breast-feeding your baby. Women who have breast-fed have a lower incidence of breast cancer.
A drug, such as tamoxifen, may be prescribed for women at high risk for breast cancer.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
Breast cancer is curable if diagnosed and treated early. The 10-year survival rate is related to the clinical stage of the disease at diagnosis.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Spread to vital organs if not treated early. The most dangerous complication of breast cancer is the possibility that it my spread to other parts of the body. Other complications include problems associated with mastectomy surgery and side effects of chemotherapy.
Adverse reactions to anti cancer drugs and radiation.
Post surgical complications (wound infection, limited shoulder motion).
TREATMENT
GENERAL MEASURES
Diagnostic tests will include a physical exam, biopsy, and mammogram. Following the initial diagnosis, ultrasound, bone scan, chest x-ray, liver scan are often performed.
The decision for treatment is very complex, and often confusing. Be sure all options are explained and that the risks and benefits of each are thoroughly understood. It is important for you to be an informed and participating member of your health care team.
Surgery (mastectomy) to remove the lump, or breast, lymph glands, and lymphatic channels and muscles under the breast may be one treatment option.
Other treatment options included radiation therapy, hormonal or chemotherapy and bone marrow transplant (still experimental).
Additional information available from:
American Cancer Society
1599 Clifton Road.
Atlanta, GA 30329
Telephone: (800) ACS-2345
Web site: www.cancer.org
National Cancer Institute Cancer Information Service
Telephone: (800) 4-CANCER
Web site: www.cancer.gov
Y-Me National Breast Cancer Organization Hotline
Telephone: (800) 221-2131
Cancer Treatments Centers of America
Telephone: (800) 515-9605
Website: www.cancercenter.com
MEDICATION
For minor discomfort during treatment, you may use non-prescription drugs such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin.
Other drugs that may be prescribed:
- Pain relievers.
- Anti-cancer drugs, such as fluorouracil, cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, chlorambucil, vincristine, doxorubicin or melphalan.
- Hormones (male and female).
- Cortisone drugs.
ACTIVITY
If surgery is performed, resume your normal activities gradually.
Exercise for rehabilitation following surgery will depend on how much tissue has been removed and your general physical condition.
DIET
No special diet. Maintain good nutrition.
This program below is recommended for women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer as well as for women who want to increase their odds of avoiding breast cancer.
DIET, HERBAL SUPPLEMENTS & NUTRIENTS
Eat a diet based on fresh fruits and vegetables, plus grains, legumes, raw nuts (except peanuts) and seeds, and soured products such as low-fat yogurt. Very important are the cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and cauliflower, and yellow/orange vegetables, such as carrots, pumpkin, squash, sweet potatoes, and yams. Eat vegetables raw or lightly steamed. For grains, use unpolished brown rice, millet, oats, and wheat. Eat whole grains only. If at all possible, consume only organically grown foods. Pesticides and other chemicals have been linked to breast cancer (they mimic the effect of estrogen on the body).
Include in the diet fresh apples, cherries, grapes, plums, and all types of berries.
Eat onions and fresh garlic, or take garlic in supplement form.
Drink spring or steam-distilled water only, never tap water. Also drink fresh homemade vegetable and fruit juices. Drink fruit juices in the morning, vegetable juices in the afternoon.
Do not eat meat or other animal products. Many animals are treated with hormones to hasten growth. Meat also contains saturated fat. Avoid all dairy products except for unsweetened low-fat yogurt.
Do not consume any alcohol, caffeine, junk foods, processed refined foods, saturated fats, salt, sugar, or white flour. Limit your intake of soy products, which contain enzyme inhibitors. It is not necessary to eliminate soy foods completely, however.
NUTRIENTS Supplement Suggested Dosage Comments Essential Natural beta-carotene
or
carotenoid complex (Betatene)10,000 IU daily
As directed on label.A powerful antioxidant that destroys free radicals. Coenzyme Q10 100 mg daily. Improves cellular oxygenation. Dimethylglycine (DMG)
Aangamik DMG from Food Science Labs)As directed on label. Improves cellular oxygenation Essential fatty acids
(black currant seed oil, borage oil, and flaxseed oil are good sources)As directed on label. Needed for proper cell reproduction. Garlic (Kyolic) 2 capsules 3 times daily. Enhances immune function. Fresh garlic can be used in place of garlic tablets. 2-3 cloves fresh garlic 2-3 times daily. Germanium 200 mg daily. A powerful immunostimulant that improves cellular oxygenation, deterring cancer growth. Proteolytic enzymes As directed on label. Take between meals. Powerful free radical scavengers. Selenium 200-400 mcg daily. Powerful free radical scavenger. Shark cartilage (Benefin) For cancer treatment, 1 gm per 2 lbs of body weight daily, divided into 3 doses. If you cannot tolerate taking it orally, it can be administered in a retention enema. For cancer prevention, 2,000-4,500 mg 3 times daily. Inhibits tumor growth and stimulates the immune system. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) As directed on label. Destroys free radicals. Consider injections (under a health care provider's supervision). Vitamin A 50,000 IU daily. If you are pregnant, do not exceed 10,000 IU daily. Vital to immunity. Vitamin B complex
plus extra
Vitamin B3 (niacin)100 mg 3 times daily.
100 mg daily. Do not exceed this amount.To improve circulation, build red blood cells, and aid liver function; necessary for normal cell division and function. Involved in the regulation of enzyme and hormone production. Caution: Do not take niacin if you have a liver disorder, gout, or high blood pressure. And
Choline100 mg 3 times daily. Aids in reducing estrogen production. Plus
Brewer's YeastAs directed on label. A source of B vitamins. Vitamin C
With
Bioflavonoids5,000-20,000 mg daily, in divided doses. Powerful anti-cancer agent. See Ascorbic Acid Flush Vitamin E Start with 400 IU daily and increase slowly to 1,000 IU daily. Deficiency has been linked to breast cancer. Also aids in hormone production and immune function. Use emulsion form for easier assimilation and greater safety at higher doses. Important Acidophilus As directed on label. Take on empty stomach. To replenish "friendly" bacteria in the colon. Use non-dairy formula. Aerobic 07 from Aerobic Life Industries As directed on label. Antimicrobial agents. Or
Dichlor from American BiologicsAs directed on label. Antimicrobial agents. Kelp
or
Seaweed1,000-1,500 mg daily.
As directed on label.For mineral balance. Multi-enzyme complex As directed on label. Take with meals. To aid digestion. Multi-mineral complex
With
calcium
And
Magnesium
And
Potassium
2,000 mg daily.
1,000 mg daily.
100 mg daily.Essential for normal cell division and function. Use a comprehensive formula that contains all major minerals and trace elements but that is iron-free. L-Camitine As directed on label. Protects the skin after mastectomy and/or radiation treatment. Use a form derived from fish liver (squalene). L-Cysteine
And
L-MethionineAs directed on label. Take with water or juice. Do not take with milk. Take 50 mg vitamin B6 and 100 mg vitamin C for better absorption. To detoxify harmful substances. Multivitamin Complex As directed on label. Take with meals. All nutrients are needed in balance. Do not use a sustained-release formula or a formula that contains iron. Raw glandular complex
Plus
Raw thymus
And
Raw adrenal glandularsAs directed on label.
As directed on label.
As directed on label.To stimulate glandular function, especially the thymus. The site of T lymphocyte production. Taurine from American Biologics As directed on label. Functions as foundation for tissue and organ repair. Use the sublingual form. Vitamin B12
And
Folic acid2,000 mcg daily.
400 mcg daily.To prevent anemia and aid in proper digestion and absorption of nutrients. Consider injections (under a health care provider's supervision). If injections are not available, a sublingual form is best.
BREAST CANCER SUPPLEMENTAL PRODUCTS
Supplements for help with breast cancer, a life-threatening tumor that begins in the breast.
Super Lignan - Herbal Estrogen Supplement - Nature's Way, 60 Vcaps
EFAGold (TM) Super Lignan is an ideal herbal estrogen supplement for supporting breast health during the menopausal phases of life helping alleviate breast tenderness and pain associated with the menstrual cycle.Flax Protein / Fiber / Lignan Cold Milled Powder Plus Omega 3, Certified Organic, Nature's Way - 16 oz.
With 6g Fiber/300mg Lignan/5g Protein (including 18 amino acids) per serving, Nature's Way EFAGold is one of nature's richest sources of protein, fiber & essential fatty acids.Resveratrol Synergistic Formula, 37.5mg each Capsule - 60 Caps
Japanese knotweed is a potent source of Resveratrol and has been used for the heart, liver and blood vessels.Cellular Therapy Support, TheraVeda Vijay - 100 VCaps
TheraVedas Cellular Support was created to support the quality of life for cancer patients.Vitamin C 1000 with Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000mg - 250 Vcaps
Nature's Way Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids provides antioxidant protection for many of the body's important enzyme systems.CoQ10, Vegetarian Coenzyme, NOW Foods 30mg - 60 Vcaps
A coenzyme for several key steps in the production of energy within each cell, and an antioxidant important in its clinical effects. It is these two properties make CoQ10 one of the best supplements available today.Colostrum, 480mg - 120 Caps
Colostrum known for its powerful healing factors offers optimal health. Colostrum research proves a wide spectrum of immunoglobulins, antibodies, and accessory immune factors.DMG Supplement N, N Dimethyl Glycine, NOW Foods 125mg - 100 Caps
NOW Foods' DMG Supplement is a methylated amino acid found in all cells. DMG is an antioxidant and methyl donor that has a number of beneficial effects. It has shown to have potential in increasing immune response to the flu and salmonella.Fish Oil / Fisol, EPA DHA, Enteric Coated, Nature's Way 500mg - 90 Softgels
Scientific research confirms the important role of Omega-3 essential fatty acids in maintaining healthy blood triglyceride levels, as well as supporting the heart, skin and joints. Fish Oil contains an abundance of two-key Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids, EPA and DHA.Garlic Oil Tincture, Alcohol Free Nature's Way - 1 fl. oz.
Garlic oil is often used to soothe the ear and as an antibiotic but most often used as a food and herb and also to lower serum cholesterol and blood pressure and to improve circulation as well as possibly inhibiting the growth of ulcer causing bacteria.Germanium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 50 +/- ppm - 16 fl. oz.
WaterOz Ionic Germanium is a pure liquid Germanium supplement. Germanium raises the level of activity of various organs (facilitates oxygen uptake) and helps to expel harmful pollutants and arrest germ activity. Germanium serves as an electrical semiconductor, helping correct distortions in the electrical fields of the body.Selenium Supplements & Products
Selenium is a powerful free radical scavenger
Maitake Mushroom Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
The unique chemicals in raw, cooked, and dried Maitake mushrooms may help boost immunity, fend off infections and fight cancer.Astragalus Root, Nature's Way 470mg - 180 Vcaps
Astragalus root is considered to have a normalizing effect on the body's functions. Astragalus is an important herb in Chinese medicine and is commonly included in Chinese cuisine.Echinacea Astragalus and Reishi, Nature's Way 400mg - 100 Caps
Echinacea purpurea supports the immune system, while Astragalus and Reishi are two of the most important traditional Chinese medicinal herb tonics.Burdock Root, Nature's Way - 540mg - 100 Caps
Burdock is a natural blood purifier and detoxifier. It is favored for helping the body maintain healthy skin. It nourishes the urinary and respiratory systems, and also nutritionally supports joints and other skeletal tissues. It is reported to promote glandular and hormone balance, as well as remove accumulations and deposits around the joints.Dandelion Tea, NOW Foods Organic - 30 Tea Bags
Dandelion Tea has a long history of use. Dandelion tea is warm and soothing and may even bring back a little bit of the child in you! Ours is 100% Organic.Ginkgold, Ginkgo Biloba Vegetarian Standardized, Extract, Nature's Way 60mg - 150 Tabs
Ginkgold improves mental sharpness, concentration, memory and cognitive activity. It also supports healthy circulation to the brain as well as the extremities. And, it maintains healthy blood vessel tone and reduces blood viscosity.
HERBS
Astragalus root and echinacea enhance immune function. These herbs are best used in a rotating fashion, for nor more than 7 to 10 days in a row. Caution: Do not use astragalus in the presence of a fever.
Burdock root, dandelion root, milk thistle, and red clover all protect the liver and aid in cleansing the bloodstream.
Ginkgo biloba enhances circulation and brain function.
Licorice root aids in maintaining proper organ function. Caution: If overused, licorice can elevate blood pressure. Do not use this herb on a daily basis for more than 7 to 10 days in a row. Avoid it completely if you have high blood pressure.
HOLISTIC RECOMMENDATIONS & SUGGESTIONS
Take extra fiber daily. Fiber keeps toxic wastes from being absorbed into the bloodstream. Psyllium husks are a recommended source. The colon must be kept clean and the bowels must move daily for healing. See Colon Cleansing, Colon Cleansing Enema, and Enemas for more information. Note: Always take supplemental fiber separately from other supplements and medications.
Do not take supplements containing iron. Iron may be used by tumors to promote their growth.
If you experience itching, redness, and soreness of the nipples, especially if your are not currently breastfeeding a baby, seek evaluation by your health care provider. These can be symptoms of Paget's disease.
If you are undergoing treatment for breast cancer and find yourself feeling depressed or frightened, try to keep in mind that when medications (especially chemotherapy drugs) are stopped, you will probably start to feel better and to look at things in a different light. Think about all the women, including many celebrities and public figures, who have had breast cancer, and have gone on to have fulfilling lives and careers. Thousands of women who have had breast cancer are living happy, normal lives.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
A study done by the American Health Foundation found that consuming wheat bran can reduce blood estrogen levels.
People with breast cancer have been found to have lower than normal levels of vitamin E and the mineral selenium, two important antioxidants that work together to neutralize free radicals. Research has shown that people with cancer of the lung, bladder, breast, colon, and skin all have levels of vitamin A that are lower than normal.
Being physically fit appears to help protect against breast cancer.
Evidence is strong for a link between breast cancer and lifestyle. As few as 3 alcoholic drinks a week increases the potential for breast cancer by 50 percent. All women are urged to cut their total fat intake to 20 percent of total calories. Saturated fats should account for no more than 5 percent of calories.
A study reported in the journal Cancer showed that women who gained more than 22 pounds since their teenage years doubled their chances of getting breast cancer.
Treatment for breast cancer may include surgery or radiation therapy, or both, to control the breast tumor. Hormone therapy may be added in the form of drugs such as tamoxifen (Nolvadex).
Options for the surgical treatment of breast cancer have expanded greatly in the past couple of decades. Surgical treatment now emphasizes breast conservation - preserving the breast when possible. Some of the treatment options in breast surgery include:
- Lumpectomy, also known as segmented mastectomy or tylectomy. The tumor and a small amount of surrounding tissue are removed. This is the least extensive type of breast cancer surgery.
- Quadrantectomy, also known as partial mastectomy. The quadrant of the breast in which the tumor was found is removed, including some skin and the lining of the chest muscle below the tumor.
- Simple mastectomy. The entire breast is removed and sample of the underarm lymph nodes is taken.
- Modified radical mastectomy, also known as total mastectomy. The entire breast and all underarm lymph nodes are removed. The lining over the chest muscles may also be removed.
- Radical mastectomy, also known as the Halsted radical mastectomy. The entire breast, all the axillary (underarm) lymph nodes, and the underlying chest muscle are removed. This procedure was once the standard in breast cancer surgery, but today, few than 5 percent of women with breast cancer undergo this surgery.
No Single procedure can be recommended as ideal for all individuals. A woman and her health care provider must base their decision on the patient's medical status and her particular concerns. Her choice may be influenced by emotional considerations, finances, access to care, body image, and personal beliefs. Depending on the type of surgery that is done, there is the option of having breast reconstruction later.
After surgery, analysis of the tumor is done to determine the type of cancer and to test for the presence of a substance called estrogen-receptor protein, to determine whether the cancer is estrogen-dependent. If the tumor is found to be estrogen-dependent, an alternative to conventional chemotherapy may be the drug tamoxifen (Novadex). This drug blocks estrogen from binding with receptors on any developing breast cancer cells in the early stages, thus "starving" the cancer cells of the estrogen that promotes their growth. It can cause adverse side effects, however. In pre-menopausal women, hormonal treatment may be accomplished by removing the hormone-producing ovaries.
In any type of breast cancer surgery, some or all of the underarm lymph nodes may be removed. This is done to check for possible spread of the cancer. If the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, postoperative therapy may include radiation, chemotherapy, or hormonal therapy. Radiation is always required after a lumpectomy or quadrantectomy to ensure that no more cancer cells remain.
After surgery, women are usually advised to avoid moving or carrying heavy objects, to wear loose-fitting clothes and gloves, and to avoid overexposure to the sun. Some women whose lymph nodes are removed during breast cancer surgery have a problem with swelling of the arm on that side due to an accumulation of lymphatic fluid. This is not unusual. Certain arm exercises are usually prescribed to keep the arm from becoming stiff and to assist in healing. If there is any unusual swelling, redness, or pain in the hand or arm, this should be evaluated by a health care provider.
When breast cancer is caught in the very early stages - when it has not invaded nearby tissues - the cure rate is near 100 percent with surgery alone. Tumors of 1 centimeter or less in size carry a particularly good prognosis - less than a 10 percent likelihood of recurrence within 10 years. In general, the risk of recurrence rises with increasing tumor size and lymph node involvement.
A relatively new approach to breast cancer treatment involves a combination of high-dose chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant. Health care providers first extract and freeze a small amount of marrow, then administer extremely high doses of chemotherapy to eradicate the cancer cells. The marrow is then reinjected into the patient to replace the marrow destroyed by chemotherapy. This treatment was tested on women with advanced breast cancer that had spread to the lymph nodes in the arm pits. After 2 years, 72 percent of the treated women were free of cancer, compared with 38 percent of those who received standard chemotherapy treatment. This treatment is very expensive, however, it can cost more than $100,000, and many insurance companies are reluctant to pay for it because they consider it "experimental." It is also extremely difficult physically for the woman who undergoes it.
Once treatment has been completed and a woman is declared free of cancer, her health care provider will usually want to follow her progress for at least 5 years.
Family support is necessary for the person with breast cancer. Depression, anxiety, and fear are not uncommon.
See Cancer for more information about cancer.
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
You or a family member discovers a lump or other change in the breast.
The following occur after treatment or surgery:
- Swelling in the arm.
- Fever.
- New, unexplained symptoms develop, such as nausea or vomiting. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.
Breast Cancer Links & Resources
Mountain Rose Bulk Herbs
Mountain Rose Aromatherapy Oils
Click Here To Visit Herbal Remedies Product Page
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