10 Things Every Woman Should Know About Breast Cancer

- Among the various killer conditions that people may suffer, breast cancer is one. Breast cancer in women is known to be a cancer that has many deceived till it is too late. It is for this reason now that there is greater awareness about this form of cancer. Indeed, today there are millions who aware and dread breast cancer.

- Generally though there are still many people who are unaware of the initial warnings of breast cancer. This is because they may not adhere to the basic guidelines that are provided by experts. One may not be able to prevent themselves from getting breast cancer but they are able to detect whether they have it or not.

- This is possible through checking for the symptoms such as particular swellings. This is opposed to the deceptive nature of it being painless in its infancy. It also must be noted that when breast cancer first develops it may not even have any symptoms. However these gradually begin to show up and women should watch out for them.

1. The first noticeable sign of breast cancer is that there is a lump in the breast as mentioned above.
2. The lump may also be situated around the under arm or near the breast. This lump needs to be monitored frequently in order to see if there are any changes.
3. A change in the size of a lump or swelling in the breast is something that should be taken seriously.

   This is because of the fact that it is a sign that whatever the lump is related to is growing or spreading. In the case of it being cancerous means that it the cancer is spreading.

4. In addition to a lump being detected near or in the breast another sign that should be watched out for is tendering of breast nipples.

   If the nipples should become tender or discharge any fluid it is a sign that should be further monitored and investigated. In addition to a discharge or tenderness of the nipples being a warning, if it is inverted or pulled back there is cause for alarm.

5. Other features that are early signs of breast cancer include a condition known as ‘pitting’.

   This somewhat likes like the skin of an orange in which there are several dips, varying in depth.

6. Change in the way the skin of one’s breast looks may also be helpful in detecting breast cancer.

   A warm feeling, overall swelling, redness or a scaly look are signs to watch out for.

7. It is said that 86% of lumps or swellings in the breast turn out to be non-cancerous.

   However, it is better to be on the safe side and do what is recommended.

8. Women should also be aware of their chances of getting cancer.

   They should take their family history into consideration. Aside from this, atypical hyperplasia, and delayed pregnancies can cause cancer.

   It is said that becoming pregnant later than the age of thirty increases one’s chances of getting cancer. Not becoming pregnant increases one’s chances too. In addition to this, premature menstruation and delayed menopause are two other points to consider as they are also believed to be signs of increased chances of cancer. Consuming alcohol on a daily basis is yet another cause of cancer in women. Also, the use of contraceptive pills is also considered a danger.

9. Physicians advise women to conduct a self examination at least once a month.

   A mammography may be carried out annually especially after the age of forty.

10. It is estimated that 96% women who manage to detect breast cancer in its early stages and seek treatment immediately are rid of cancer within 5 years.
11. Therapy for estrogen replacement may increase breast cancer risks if it exceeds 5 years.

    The risk may show up and disappear 5-10 years after the therapy is over.

In view of the above guidelines it is recommended that women follow them closely in order to prevent then missing out on the early warnings of Breast cancer. The Breast Cancer Site provides excellent information on the disease, diagnosis and treatment.