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Genetic tests are helpful for people with risk factors for breast cancer and ovarian cancer, but not everyone needs them. Breast cancer genes can be rather confusing. Let’s dive in so you have a better understanding.
Continue reading “Breast Cancer Genes: What You Should Know”
Many younger women having their first few mammograms are undoubtedly nervous. This is a new and somewhat scary test. Even women who are so-called “veterans” of mammogram screenings can find themselves with new questions or concerns. Don’t ever be afraid to ask questions of your doctor or the radiologist about an upcoming test. Here are a few answers to mammogram FAQs you may be too nervous to ask.
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Many organizations have increased awareness about breast cancer in the last several decades. All this is good, but sometimes old wives tales or myths pop up and they are repeated and spread on the internet. Let’s give you the facts and 5 myths about breast cancer symptoms.
A monthly breast self-exam is another tool women have in conjunction with annual mammograms to find cancers early and improve survival rates. You use your hands and eyes to detect any changes in the look and feel of your breasts. Not a replacement for annual mammograms, it is still valuable to be familiar with the normal consistencies of your breast. When cancer is detected early, the chances of survival are much improved. Let us go through how to perform a monthly breast exam.
Do you wake up every morning thinking about preventing breast cancer in your everyday life? We seriously doubt it, but if you are someone with a higher risk for breast cancer due to your family or your age, maybe you should consider paying more attention to preventative strategies. There are some simple and specific changes you can make to help lower your risk for breast cancer.
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If you have been confused in the past by changes in breast cancer screening guidelines, buckle up! Recently, more changes have been passed down as guidelines, so it’s important to make sure you’re knowledgeable.
Continue reading “New Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines You Should Know”
You may have seen the term “BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 testing” being used on the internet in regard to breast cancer, but are you unsure about what it means? The simple explanation is this: BRCA1 and BRCA 2 are genes that help repair damaged DNA. Damaged DNA can lead to tumor growth. When either of these genes do not function properly, cells are more likely to develop genetic alterations that can lead to cancer.
It is possible to test for BRCA 1 & 2 mutations, but is it necessary for you? Having all of the information can help you make an informed decision.
Continue reading “Breast Cancer Risk Testing: Is the BRCA Test Right for You?”
Cancer is the leading cause of death around the world. Every year, approximately 12.7 million people are diagnosed with cancer and 7.6 million of them will die from the disease.
For World Cancer Day in 2017, individuals and organizations are adopting the “We can. I can” approach to cancer. This means that organizations and individuals will both do their part to reduce the global burden of cancer.