BREAST CANCER, LIFE THREATENING!

By: Regina Asamoah
Ghana Institute of Journalism.

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women, with approximately one in nine women developing the disease in her life time. Although breast cancer is known to affect women it can be equally destructive to men. Male breast cancer accounts for 1% of all diagnosed breast cancer.
Breast cancer is a disease in which cancerous cells are found in the tissues of the breast. These cancerous cells continue to grow and eventually form into a lump known as a tumor. Although more than 80% of breast lumps are not cancerous, a process known as a biopsy is the only way to know for sure. A biopsy requires the doctor to remove a small sample of tissue and examine it under a microscope and check for cancerous cells.
Although breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in women between the ages of 35 and 54 the causes of breast cancer are not known. The development of cancer has been closely linked to heredity. A genetic mutation (a change in the genetic code) could be passed to a family. History of cancer could be due to a dominant gene that makes cancer more likely to be passed down from generation to generation.
Breast cancer can be treated. You need to see a doctor if you notice changes in your breast. Not all breast cancers or breast cancer patients are alike; therefore treatment will vary with the individual. An individual’s chance of recovery depends upon a number of factors such as
• The stage of the cancer (whether it is just in the breast or has spread to other parts of the body)
• The type of breast cancer
• The certain characteristics of the cancer cells
• Your age and weight
• Menopausal status
• Overall state of health
Once breast cancer can be found, more tests could be conducted to see if the cancer has spread from the breast to other parts of the body. Even after an individual has been treated for breast cancer, it is possible for the cancer to come back. However in most cases, the cancer can be treated but usually cannot be cured, once the breast cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
What are the strategies for preventing this type of cancer? Some researchers believe that maintaining a low-fat diet can lower a persons risk for breast cancer. Also, one should consult a physician before taking any hormone- containing drugs such as some contraceptives, since some of these medications have been linked to breast cancer. A breast self- examination should be practiced monthly. Ask your doctor or nurse to teach you the proper method.