>General Health >Community Health >Chronic Disease >Cancer >Breast

Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer is a cancer that forms in the tissues of the breast, usually the ducts (tubes that carry milk to the nipple) and lobules (glands that make milk). It occurs in both men and women, although breast cancer is men is rare.

Risk Factors

• Women age 55 and older
• Family history of the disease
• Previous occurrence of breast cancer
• Dense breast tissue ( more glandular than fatty tissue)
• Early menustral cycle (before age 12) and late menopause (after age 55)
• Previous radiation treatment in the chest area
• Pregnant women who were given the drug Diethylstilbestrol (DES)

Signs & Symptoms: Individuals are commonly asymptomatic (without symptoms) however, some symptoms can include:

• An area of thickening or dimpling in the breast (commonly referred to as a lump)
• Breast Swelling
• Redness
• Enlarged Underarm Lymph Nodes
• Nipple Changes
• Cysts
• Breast Pain

Prevention: (ways to reduce your risk)

• Conducting monthly self-exams
• Getting a annual mammogram
• Reducing alcohol intake
• Exercising regularly
• Maintaining a healthy body weight
• Breastfeeding your baby for several months