Brest Cancer

Breast Cancer Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death in most in women today (“NABCO: Facts About Breast Cancer” 1). It is a known fact that its cure and origin are unknown. Breast cancer is when an uncontrolled growth of cells without a specific function form in the breast area of a person, killing normal cells and tissue. This process in turn causes a lump or mass to form known as cancer. Although breast cancer cannot be prevented, there are some steps a person can take to reduce the risks. These steps are knowing your family history, routine self breast examinations, yearly routine mammograms for women 40 and over, and an annual breast examination by a medical professional. Every woman is at risk for breast cancer and she is at an even higher risk if she has a family history of breast cancer. That’s why it is extremely important for every woman to know her family history. About 10% of breast cancer cases are hereditary and that the most common of these result from mutations (changes) of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Normally, these genes help to prevent cancer by making proteins that keep the cells from growing abnormally. (“American Cancer Association: Breast Cancer Resource Center” 3). Even if your family doesn’t have the history, it’s good information to have for future reference. Second, a woman should perform a monthly breast self examination (BSE). The best time to perform a BSE is about a week after the menstrual cycle ends. For women that have irregular menstrual cycles it’s recommended to perform the BSE on the same day of every month. The BSE is a quick and simple process. If you have a regular gynecologist or family physician they can give you information on how to perform the process properly or show you while performing it on you. Also, the American Cancer Association has directions on their website on how to perform it at: http://www3.cancer.org/cancerinfo/load_cont.asp?ct=5&doc=14&Language=English. According to the American Cancer...