Squeezing Can Prevent Breast Cancer?

Women laid low with breast cancer could take pleasure in giving their breasts an additional squeeze virtually.

According to researchers from the University of American state at Berkeley and therefore the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, inserting mechanical force on malignant exocrine gland cells will really reverse their irregular growth method and place them back on target for a traditional growth pattern.

We area unit showing that tissue organization is sensitive to mechanical inputs from the surroundings at the start stages of growth and development, aforesaid Daniel John Fletcher, academician of applied science at Berkeley and college human at the Berkeley laboratory, furthermore because the study's lead investigator.

Breast tissue grows, shrinks and shifts throughout the course of a woman's life during a structured pattern and ultimately stops growing at some purpose. breast cancer is usually characterised by a breakdown during this traditional growth pattern, inflicting breast cancer cells to grow on an irregular basis.

Through a previous experiment at the Berkeley laboratory, researchers showed it had been attainable to stop these malignant cells from remodeling into a neoplasm by manipulating the cells' close surroundings through the employment of organic chemistry inhibitors. Ultimately the encircling healthy cells may persuade the cancerous cells to grow unremarkably once more.

The most recent work from the Berkeley laboratory utilizes an equivalent construct, however introduces mechanical inhibitors instead of chemical inhibitors. The researchers grew malignant breast animal tissue cells during a gelatin-like substance, that was injected into versatile Si chambers. They then applied force to the Si over time, and ultimately witnessed the malignant cells grow into additional healthy-looking cells. Time-lapse research showed the modification within the compressed breast cells over time.

While their analysis is compelling, the researchers don't advocate for compression bras or force alone to treat breast cancer.

Compression, in and of itself, isn't seemingly to be a medical care, John Fletcher aforesaid. But, this will provide North American country new clues to trace down the molecules and structures that might eventually be targeted for therapies.

Health care decisions by and for Medicare patients differ widely by place; Lexington big in back surgery, low in mastectomy

All medicine involves decisions and, according to a new series of nine reports published by the Dartmouth Atlas Project, those decisions differ drastically by location for Medicare patients. In the East South Central region -- Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi), the variation between how things are diagnosed and treated can change when one crosses county lines.

An example, with numbers but without explanation: The total knee replacement rate in Harlan is 3.3 per 1,000 Medicare beneficaries; in Bardstown, it's 13.8. As the report goes on to note: "If you have heart disease and live in Huntsville, Ala., you are half as likely to undergo balloon angioplasty than if you live in Hattiesburg, Miss., and twice as likely to undergo back surgery if you live in Lexington, Ky." The greatest variation in the region was seen in mastectomy, ranging from a low of 0.3 percent per 1,000 female Medicare beneficiaries in Lexington to 2.1 per 1,000 in Tupelo, Miss.

The point, researchers say, is that providers and patients need to work together to determine care. The report looked at rates for early-stage breast cancer, stable angina, low back pain, arthritis of the knee or hip, carotid artery disease, gallstones, enlarged prostate, and early-stage prostate cancer. Read the report here.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Early Symptoms of Breast Cancer

The symptoms that are listed conjure the bulk of the first symptoms of Breast Cancer. the primary factor that's typically noticeable is that the lump or mass within the breast. this can be one amongst the main indicators of Breast Cancer that is found within the early stage. it's attainable that a lump can type within the bodily cavity space still. alternative skin and tit connected symptoms conjointly|also are|are} common within the development of the Breast Cancer also however they will not be therefore noticeable within the early stages. detain mind that the first symptoms of Breast Cancer can also be tough as a results of alternative health issues therefore you must not assume the designation supported these symptoms occurring.

It is an honest plan for all girls to try to to breast exams a minimum of once a year. you'll get this done by your doctor or try it on your own. make certain that you just recognize specifically what you're yearning for. Early symptoms of Breast Cancer could go unremarked however once examining the world they're comparatively straightforward to Early. The lump ought to be noticeable and distinguished from the surface of the skin. If there's any modification within the texture and look of your breast skin or nipples then this could even be straightforward to note. If you retain examining your breasts on a daily basis then it'll be easier to spot once there has been any modification to that.
Regular breast examination will facilitate to find early symptoms of Breast Cancer and achievebetter treatment results.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer in girls

Symptoms of Breast Cancer in girls vary slightly . If you're a girl you will expect to expertise breast lump and changes of the skin and nipples in your breast space. There could also be alternative symptoms that would be tough except for this still although. you'll hunt for a full list of Breast Cancer symptoms however this has coated the bulk of the common symptoms that area unit probably to be detected by feminine patients with this kind of cancer.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer in Men

There area unit some similarities within the symptoms of Breast Cancer in men and girls however there area unit many variations that area unit additional probably to be detected by male patients. In several cases In several cases, it's unremarkably to visualize firm patches underneath the tit space of the skin. this might be a significant symptom that's tough by the male and totally different from females. it's attainable that symptoms of Breast Cancer in men can embody numerous forms of changes to the skin and nipples still. In most instances of Breast Cancer the symptoms area unit solely sometimes detected during a single tit. Also, if the Breast Cancer has unfold then you will expertise alternative symptoms like bone pain, weight loss, and general weakness.

The symptoms of Breast Cancer area unit largely to try to to with the breast skin and nipples. If the cancer spreads then symptoms could also be detected throughout the body still. once the cancer is in its early stages the symptoms area unit generally restricted to the breast space although.Even though these symptoms might not be able to realize at the primary look they're still comparatively straightforward to be detected if you examine the world. Ultimately, there area unit various symptoms of Breast Cancer and it's vital if you'll get timely examinations and effective treatments. So, visit a doctor timely once any abnormal symptoms area unit found.

Colorful fruits and vegetables linked to lower breast cancer risk

Come to find out, pink isn't the most important color when it comes to breast cancer. According to researchers in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, women loading up on carotenoids, the  micro-nutrients found in red, yellow and deeply colored fruits and vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes spinach and kale, showed lower rates of breast cancer than those who didn’t eat as many of them.

Alexandra Sifferlin at Healthland Time magazine explains that Dr. Heather Eliassen, an assistant professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, led an analysis of data collected in various studies about the carotenoids and their effect on blood and breast cancer rates. The studies included 3,000 participants and nearly 4,000 controls. Women with carotenoid levels in the the top 20 percent of measured ranges had a 15-20 percent reduced risk of breast cancer compared to those with carotenoid levels in the lowest category. “It looks like it is a linear relationship,” says Eliassen. ”The higher you go, the [lower] your risk is."

Why carotenoids work against breast cancer isn't clear. They may metabolize into retinol, which regulates cell growth. Or they may improve cell communication and enhance immune system function. Eliassen urged caution. Other research carotenoids, in the form of beta-carotene supplements, are linked to an increased risk for lung cancer. (Read more) 

The Kentucky Fruit and Vegetable Conference will be held Jan. 7-8 at the Embassy Suites in Lexington. Deadline for preregistration is Dec. 19. The block of rooms for the conference will be held until Jan. 4. Program and registration information are available here or through John Strang at (859) 257-5685 or jstrang@uky.edu, or Tim Coolong at (859) 257-3374 or timcoolong@uky.edu.

Experimental concentrated breast cancer radiation therapy offers new options for women who live far away from treatment facilities

A study at the University of Louisville James Graham Brown Cancer Center designed to make  radiation treatment more accessible to women who face obstacles such as distance, transportation problems and time constraints is proving promising. The idea is to cut daily trips to the cancer center to once a week, says Dr. Anthony Dragon, a radiation oncologist at U of L. It also has the added benefit of cutting treatment costs by better than half.

Laura Ungar of The Courier-Journal in Louisville reports that Dragun led a previous study that found that "about a third of Kentucky women with early-stage breast cancer didn’t get recommended radiation treatments after lumpectomy surgery. Among those least likely to get radiation were rural Kentuckians, the elderly, African Americans and women in the Appalachian region of the state. Women who did not get recommended radiation were 60 percent more likely to die during the time they were studied."

Dragun told Ungar that the folks at U of L were not satisfied with just gathering those numbers, they wanted solutions to the problem. Dragun said the new experimental regimen is yielding good results, with women who get weekly radiation reporting similar levels of side effects as those getting radiation every day. Ungar notes that some outside experts say the approach does seems promising, but one critic was concerned about breast appearance results after the once-a-week treatments.

According the National Cancer Institute, more than 3,070 new cases of breast cancer were diagnosed in Kentucky in 2009 and was responsible for 614 deaths.  (Read more) 

Horses and Hope Race Day set for Nov. 18 at Churchill Downs

The Fifth Annual Horses and Hope Race Day honoring breast cancer survivors will be Sunday, Nov. 18, at Churchill Downs. Hosted by First Lady Jane Beshear and the Kentucky Cancer Program at the University of Louisville’s James Graham Brown Cancer Center, it's a day for wearing pink and meeting some local celebs and scientists. Gates open at 11:30 a.m. First post time will be at 12:40 p.m.

The mission of the Horses and Hope program is to increase breast cancer awareness, education, screening, and treatment referral among Kentucky’s horse industry workers and their families. The day's participants will get lunch and a chance to tell Louisville fashion designer Gunnar Deatherage just what you thought of his work on Season 10 of Lifetime Television's "Project Runway." Also on hand for the more important stuff will be James Graham Brown Cancer Center Ambassador Jessica Rizzo and State Rep. Joni Jenkins, sponsor of 2005's HB 7 which created the state's Breast Cancer Research and Education Trust Fund.

Cost to attend Horses and Hope Race Day is $28 for adults and $18 for children, age 12 and under, and includes admission to the Downs, parking at Gate 10, seating on Millionaires Row Four and the luncheon buffet. Tickets can be purchased from Churchill Downs online or by phone at 502-636-4400. For more information about Horses and Hope Race Day, contact the Kentucky Cancer Program at 877-326-1134 or 502-852-6318.

Cause Breast Cancer?

Free From Harm compiled a collection of information from experts about the connection between dairy and breast cancer. Some highlights:

• "Casein, which makes up 87% of cow's milk protein, promoted all stages of the cancer process," says Dr. T. Colin Campbell, author of the well-regarded, seminal China Study, summing up his relevant findings.
• "[S]everal epidemiological studies have indicated a relationship between dairy consumption and breast cancer risk in pre-menopausal women (Outwater, 1997)." -Breast Cancer Fund
• "It appears that when individuals do not have the correct enzymes to metabolize many of the hormones naturally found in any type of cow's milk, a glass of milk can flood the body with excess estrogen. This raises the risk of developing or accelerating the growth of existing breast cancer." -Susan Wadia-Ells, Founding Director of Knowbreastcancer.net
• Professor Jane Plant advocates changing from dairy to soy products to prevent breast cancer, noting that "even in Hiroshima, the chances of contracting breast cancer are half that of western nations. Only when Chinese and Japanese women move to Europe or the United States does their chance of contracting breast cancer dramatically increase," as Free From Harm summarized.
• "While scientists are hard at work searching for specific breast cancer-fighting compounds, the safest approach is to apply what we already know: Diets that are highest in a variety of plant foods and stay away from heavy oils, meat, and dairy products, help prevent a great many diseases." -Dr. Neal M. Bernard
• 'Some dairy products, such as whole milk and many types of cheese, have a relatively high saturated fat content, which may increase risk. Moreover, milk products may contain contaminants such as pesticides, which have carcinogenic potential, and growth factors such as insulin-like growth factor I, which have been shown to promote breast cancer cell growth.' -The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Some nutritionists confirm the doctors' findings. One of them, Phil Richards, writes that 'the connection between casein and cancer was so profound [in experiments on rats] that the scientists could literally turn cancer growth on and off in the laboratory animals, like a light switch, simply by altering the level of casein protein in their diets." Specifically, "[c]onsuming dairy products is linked to an increased risk for breast cancer as dairy products are high in fat, animal protein, and hormones, each of which increases cancer risk. Since the 1980′s, study after study has linked dairy consumption to a high incidence of breast and other cancers.'

Part of the problem with dairy is the things that come out of cows because of the way factory farmers treat them, as The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition quote above suggests. Dairy producers inject cows with a growth hormone to increase their milk production by a factor of ten. That milk then contains pus, bacteria, and blood because of the infections cows are prone to from their living conditions and from producing far more milk than they are meant to. Obviously these are not healthy things for us to drink.

Susan G. Komen for the Cure sounds a more conservative note than the researchers cited above: 'data from the Nurses' Health Study II found women who ate a lot of high-fat dairy products (like whole milk or butter) were at higher risk of premenopausal breast cancer," it admits, but nevertheless asserts that "[m]ost studies have found no link between consuming dairy products and breast cancer in premenopausal women." The site also claims that studies "have found no link between dairy product intake and postmenopausal breast cancer risk.'

By Piper Hoffman @care2.com

Breast milk may spread viruses that cause breast cancer

Breast milk and HPV

We all know that faulty genetics is partially responsible for breast cancer in a family. But faulty genetics is not the sole risk factor for breast cancer that spreads from a mother to her daughter(s).

Studies suggest that viruses that cause or increase risk of breast cancer can spread from one generation to another through breast milk.

Dr. W.K. Glenn and colleagues published a study in BMC Research Notes that had found high risk human papillomavirus and Epstein Barr virus in human breast milk and babies drinking the virus-loaded milk may contract the cancer-causing viruses.

The authors reported that multiple viruses including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), Epstein Barr virus (EBV) and mouse mammary tumour virus have already been identified in human milk and high risk human papillomavirus (HPV) sequences have already been identified in breast cancer tissue.

Apparently, baby girls who drink milk from their infected mothers may get infected with the viruses. But the current study has found these viruses may also be present in human milk from normal lactating women who had no history of breast cancer.

The researchers found high risk HPV in 15% of milk samples from normal lactating Australian women. Four samples were sequenced and HPV 16 was found in three samples and HPV 18 was found in one sample. Epstein Barr virus was detected in 33% of breast milk samples.

The researchers concluded "The presence of high risk HPV and EBV in human milk suggests the possibility of milk transmission of these viruses. However, given the rarity of viral associated malignancies in young people, it is possible but unlikely, that such transmission is associated with breast or other cancers."

Although HPV was found in non-cancerous tissue, HPV was also found in breast cancer tissue, suggesting that these viruses may play a role in the development of certain cases of breast cancer.

By David Liu, PHD @foodconsumer.org

Breast cancer awareness: Testing urged, guidelines explained, misconceptions explored

Women with BRCA1 and BRCA2, the
genes most commonly involved in breast
cancer, have up to an 80 percent chance
of getting the disease.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Although Kentucky's breast cancer rate is slightly lower than the nationwide rate, almost 600 women die every year from breast cancer in the Commonwealth. The American Cancer Society predicts approximately 3,160 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in Kentucky this year. Early detection and prompt treatment can significantly reduce suffering and death from the disease.

According to the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, all health plans serving Kentuckians must, by law, cover mammograms. Medical guidelines strongly recommend that women older than 40 have annual mammograms and women younger than 40 with a family history of breast cancer should also have regular screenings. Through local health departments, the Kentucky Women's Cancer Screening Program provides breast cancer screenings, mammograms and Pap tests to eligible women in every county. During the 2011 fiscal year, KWCSP provided breast cancer screenings to 14,212 women. Services are provided to low-income women through the Kentucky Department for Public Health. Those women must be uninsured with incomes less than 250 percent of federal poverty guidelines.  For more information about breast cancer or screening services, call your local health department.

There are many misconceptions about the risks of developing breast cancer. Genetics, of course, is a well-documented factor but lifestyle issues have gotten a lot of talk. So what's true? Wendy Chen, MD, MPH, a breast cancer expert at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, a principal teaching affiliate of Harvard University, tackles some of the more common questions here:

1) Soy may increase the risk of breast cancer returning.
False. Chen, who was part of a study that looked at over 9,500 American and Chinese breast cancer survivors who ate soy every day, says that eating soy may be linked to a lower risk of recurrence of breast cancer.

2) Alcohol consumption can increase the risk of breast cancer.
True. Dana-Farber researchers found that women who consume one alcoholic drink a day may increase their risk for breast cancer.  Chen and her colleagues analyzed data from over 105,000 women in the Nurses’ Health Study. Those who consumed three to six glasses of wine a week were 15 percent more likely to receive a diagnosis of breast cancer. Those who drank fewer than three drinks a week had no increased risk.

3) Fertility treatments increase a woman’s risk of breast cancer.
False. According to a recent study from the National Institutes of Health, ovulation-inducing fertility treatments like Clomid and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) do not significantly increase a woman's risk of developing breast cancer.

4) Wearing deodorant can increase the risk of breast cancer.
False. According to the National Cancer Institute, there is no conclusive research linking underarm deodorants to breast cancer.

5) The bigger the baby the bigger the risk of getting breast cancer.
Possibly true. “This is a tough one because the research is still evolving,” says Chen. "But the latest research shows that women who have larger babies have more than twice the risk of developing breast cancer than mothers who give birth to smaller infants. Researchers say that having a heavier baby may create a hormonal environment in pregnancy that could lead to the future development of breast cancer. They found that during pregnancy in women who have heavier babies, the ratio of estrogen to anti-estrogen is unusually high. The greater the level of estrogen, the higher the risk of breast cancer. However, Chen emphasizes, women who have larger babies should not panic. There is definitely a need for further research.” (Read more)

Cancer: breast implants diagnosis

The breast implants make it more 'difficult to diagnose a tumor. In fact, the prosthesis may prevent the display of the tumor mass by routine tests. Consequently, the cancer is often diagnosed when and 'now already' developed or already 'in metastasis. Sounding the alarm 'was a group of Canadian researchers, according to what we read in the British newspaper' The Sun '.

According to scientists, women with breast implants have a three times greater risk of being diagnosed with advanced cancer . The odds' to die for cancer would then be 30 percent. To reach these conclusions, the researchers analyzed data from 40 thousand women with breast, 409 of which have cancer. "The implants are radiopaque.

They may hinder - scholars have pointed out - the visualization of tissue during a mammogram." In the light of these data, the UK experts call for vangano made ​​more 'research. In the meantime urged the women to report to the doctors if they have dentures, before being screened.

By AGI

Cancer has become the leading cause of death among U.S. Latinos

Nosing past heart disease in 2009, researchers at the American Cancer Society reported Monday.

For most demographic groups and for the country as a whole heart disease is the top killer, claiming a total of 599,413 American lives in 2009, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That same year, the most recent year for which statistics are available, 567,628 Americans died of cancer.

Among Latinos that year, the rankings were reversed: 29,935 died of cancer and 29,611 of heart disease, according to a study in CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians.

The change may be due to demographics, said Rebecca Siegel, an epidemiologist at the American Cancer Society in Atlanta and lead author of the study.

The average age of Latinos in the United States is 27 and of non-Hispanic whites is 42. In the overall population, cancer is the leading cause of death in people under 85 years of age.

"This is primarily driven by the young age distribution," Siegel said.

Cancer incidence and cancer deaths among Latinos remain lower than in non-Hispanic whites, and rates of both continue to fall due to improvements in lifestyle, early detection and treatment.

At the same time, advances in the treatment of heart disease have caused death rates to fall even faster, Siegel said.

"The overall message is positive," said Dr. Paulo Pinheiro, an epidemiologist at the University of Nevada who wasn't involved with the cancer society's report.

The American Cancer Society undertakes its analysis of cancer in Latinos every three years, compiling data from the National Cancer Institute, the CDC and other government sources.

Latinos are the fastest-growing demographic group in the U.S., the organization said, numbering 50.5 million in 2010 and making up 16.3% of the population.

Siegel and her colleagues estimated that 112,800 new cases of cancer would be diagnosed in Latinos in 2012, and that 33,200 Latinos would die this year from various forms of the disease.

They also examined incidence and mortality of the various cancer subtypes. Latinos are less likely than non-Hispanic white Americans to have the most common forms of cancer in the U.S.: breast, prostate, lung and colorectal.

But they are far more likely to develop forms of cancer that result from infection, including liver cancer (caused by the hepatitis B virus), stomach cancer (associated with the H. Pylori bacterium) and cervical cancer (caused by the human papilloma virus).

Incidence and death rates for cervical cancer, for example, are 50% to 70% higher among Latinas than among non-Hispanic white women, the report noted.

Siegel said the high rates of cervical cancer were a result of lower screening rates among Latinas.

"There's an opportunity there to reduce the risk," she said, adding that the cancer society wants to promote culturally appropriate interventions for Spanish-speaking people.

The longer Latinos are in the U.S., she said, the more they acculturate and the more their cancer risk should resemble that of non-Hispanic whites.

Pinheiro noted that U.S. residents from Mexico have lower cancer rates than people from Cuba or Puerto Rico, in part because they haven't been in the country as long.

He said he would like to see a cancer survey that compared like with like, matching Latinos who were born in the U.S. with their non-Hispanic white counterparts. However, birthplace data currently don't support such analysis.

By Eryn Brown

Type 2 diabetes boosts death risk from breast cancer

Sunday Sept 16, 2012 (foodconsumer.org) -- A new study in Cancer Causes and Control suggests that being type 2 diabetic potentially increases risk of death from breast cancer. Because having type 2 diabetes also means to have diabetes treatment, diabetes treatment can potentially be linked to higher risk for breast cancer death.

M. T. Redaniel of University of Bristol in Bristol, UK and colleagues conducted the case-control study and found women with breast cancer who also suffered type 2 diabetes mellitus were 40 percent more likely to die from all causes, compared with those with breast cancer only.

The association, which was derived already after adjustment for age, period, region, smoking status, body mass index, alcohol drinking and deprivation, was based on data from 52,657 women with type 2 diabetes diagnosed between 1987 and 2007 and 30,210 randomly selected women without type 2 diabetes.

This association can be easily understood. Type 2 diabetes mellitus patients have insulin insensitivity or insulin resistance and tend to produce more insulin than people without diabetes type 2 do. When insulin is produced, insulin-like growth factor-1 is also produced, which is known to promote cancer growth.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus was also associated with 29 percent increased overall risk for developing breast cancer. This association was attenuated after adjustment for other factors like age, period of cohort entry, region, and BMI. That is, women with type 2 diabetes were 12 percent more likely than those without the disease to develop breast cancer.

Diabetes treatments may make some difference in the risk of developing breast cancer. Compared with sulfonylurea, metformin monotherapy and insulin therapy were associated with 4 and 33 percent increased risk of developing breast cancer among women with diabetes. From the study report abstract, it is unknown whether using sulfonylurea would increase risk of breast cancer.

Of all the associations, the one between being diabetic and risk of breast cancer was the strongest, suggesting that it is important to maintaining adequate glycemic control alongside cancer treatment, the researchers concluded.

The findings suggest that type 2 diabetes may increase risk of developing breast cancer and death from the disease.

By David Liu, PHD

Benefits of breast feeding and bursting the false image of artificial supplements for babies

Some facts are as follows

1. Breast milk is the best protection that loving mother can give to her new born. Its can be called as 'the child's first vaccine'.
2. The yellowish milk secreted by mothers soon after delivery is called colostrum. It is rich in anti infection substances like anti-bodies and anti microbial substances, nutrients concentrate, vitamin A, proteins, and much more all these are present in easily absorbable form for infant's underdeveloped gastrointestinal system.
3. Breast feeding (B.F.) is cheaper, safer and more nutritious than artificial supplements.
4. It creates a strong bond between mother and the child.
5. B.F. is also protective to mothers as it reduces the risk of breast cancer
6. delays the process of ovulation in mothers.

Further info:

• B.F. Should be initiated within 1 hour after delivery.
• Exclusive B.F. for a minimum period of 6 months.
• Keep the baby close to mother's body while feeding without obstructing the baby's nose.
• Mother's milk cannot be quantitated. Mother's often worry if their milk will be sufficient for their baby. The physicians have no answer for this, but the baby has !

If the baby is fed sufficiently, then

• The baby will be happy, energetic, and joyful.
• doesn't cry.
• sleeps well for 2-3 hours after every feeding.

Tips to stay away from Breast Cancer

1) Breast self-examination
Women should begin self-examination at the early age of 20s. Self-examination helps you to identify breast cancer treatment early. Women should do self-examination at least one time a month the week after their period finishes. The women who are no longer menstruating should examine at the starting of every month. If you feel nodes or discomfort, then visit to a doctor for further examination. Self examination process can be found on medical websites but it is best to talk to a doctor and find out the correct process.

2) Mammogram
Mammogram can also help to identify breast cancer early. Women who are older than 40, must get mammogram once a year though there is no cancer in the family. Women should begin mammography in their 30s if their sister or mother had breast cancer before menopause. Mammogram is breast's x-ray picture. For women, who have no signs or symptoms of breast cancer, screening mammograms are used to check. For women who have lump or other sign or symptom of breast cancer, diagnostic mammograms are used to check.

3) Breastfeed your baby
Breastfeeding is among the most essential ways to prevent breast cancer. Now-a-days most women stay away from breast feeding as they think it will harm their figure but it is very essential to understand that avoiding breast feeding may increase the risk of breast cancer. Women who breastfeed their babies for up to 2 years decrease the breast cancer risk up to 60%. The theory is that breastfeeding decrease the complete menstrual cycle's number of women over her life and lower the level of estrogen hormone which is related to breast cancer.

4) Maintain healthy weight
Women who are overweight or obese after menopause are at higher risk of developing breast cancer. Before menopause, most of estrogen are created by ovaries and little amount of estrogen are created by fat tissues. After menopause, ovaries discontinue making estrogen so estrogen is created by fat tissues only. After menopause, having more fat tissue means higher estrogen levels which enhance the risk of breast cancer. Women should maintain a BMI below 25.

5) Genetic tests
Only 5 to 10% breast cancers are caused by gene mutations inherited from a parent. If you have been detected with breast cancer, you can look for genetic mutations recognized as BRCA-1 and BRCA-2. The cost of this test is $3,400. Before undergoing the test, you should talk to a genetic counselor, nurse or doctor to clarify the procedure and the results of these tests. Before these tests are done, it is also very essential for you to know pros and cons as well as what these genetic testing can and can't inform you.

6) Exercise
Breast cancer risk is decreased by performing exercise 1/2 an hour 3 times a week. Exercise also helps to burn excess fat, maintain weight and enhance the immune system. Exercise manages the oestrogen levels to stay balanced. Exercise decreased the risk of breast cancer by 20 to 40%. You can do moderate aerobic activity such as brisk walking.

7) Use the Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool
Women can use Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool to evaluate her breast cancer risk for the next 5 years and up to age of 90 as well as compare the woman's risk calculation with the average risk for similar age woman. Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool is a computer program which is developed to help health care providers in talking about breast cancer risk with their female patients. You can found The Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool at cancer.gov.

8) Consume low-fat diet
Low-fat diet prevents breast cancer as well as excellent overall health. Low-fat diet also reduces the obesity risk. Reduce the amount of trans fat and saturated fats as they increase the risk of breast cancer. Increase the consumption of monounsaturated and fish oils. Also include yogurt, low fat milk and cottage cheese in your diet. Consume only 70g fat daily.

9) Avoid high doses of radiation
The risk of breast cancer also increases due to high exposure to radiation. Women who had undergone radiation therapy to the chest part as treatment for Hodgkin's disease or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma or for acne are at high risk of developing breast cancer. The risk of developing cancer differs with the age of patient when they had radiation. If the chest radiation was given during teenage years when the breasts were still developing the chances of developing breast cancer is highest. After age of 40, radiation treatment does not increase the risk of breast cancer.

10) Limit alcohol
Limit the use of alcohol as it enhances the risk of developing breast cancer. Alcohol increases the other toxins effect and directly damage DNA which cause cancer. Women who take 1 alcoholic drink increase somewhat chances of developing breast cancer than non-drinkers. Women who take 2 to 5 drinks regularly increase about 1½ times chances of developing breast cancer compared to non-drinkers. Excessive alcohol also enhances the risk of throat, mouth, liver cancer and esophagus cancer. Women should limit the alcohol consumption to 1 drink per day.

11) Consume soy
Consume soybeans and soy products like tofu, tempeh, edamame and miso as they decrease breast cancer risk. Soy contains isoflavones which binds to tissues in the body by obstructing estrogen from stimulating breast cancer cells. Avoid the consumption of sweetened and refined soy products like soymilk and soy oils.

12) Avoid too much exposure to pesticides and chemicals
Limit exposure pesticides and chemicals as they contain estrogen like properties which lets cells of breast cancer to reproduce quickly. It also lets the disease to spread faster. As per study oder women who exposed to pesticide DDT) and similar compounds had somewhat more risk of developing breast cancer compared to other women.

Breast Cancer Symptoms

In the initial stages, the breast cancer has no obvious symptoms and it vary in individuals from lumps to swelling and changes in the skin.

A lump too small which is felt does not cause any unusual changes and it is unnoticed.

However, in many cases appearance of new lump or a mass is the first sign noticed. The lump may be hard to touch with uneven edges and they are painless.

But there are cases the lump is very tender, round edged and soft. More lumps are painless.

Breast Cancer Symptoms are:
Swelling of part of the breast or all parts
Skin irritation in the breast.
Nipple pain,
Nipple begins to turn inward (inverted) slowly
Breast pain.

Appearances of changes in the nipple like redness, scaly formation,
thickening of the nipple.
A nipple discharge (bloody or clear fluid)
Changes in the skin of the breast like thickening.
Arm pit with lymph nodes or a mass or lump

It is essential to note that these symptoms always an indication for a breast cancer. But in some cases the above symptoms may be a symptom of non-cancerous conditions like in an infectious cyst.

In the early stages of the breast cancer, the cancerous tissue formation is hidden inside the tissues and it is always not possible to see the cancer by naked eyes. The changes happen in the breast may not be always cancer. A lump may come by an infection and it may disappear. The changes in the skin surface of the breast may be due to sunburn. A rash may be by an allergy. But all these symptoms to be decided for a benign or malignant type of growth.

Vitamin D Health Benefits

BY: Boris Washington

Vitamin D offers numerous health benefits, which make it the key factor for a healthy and balanced lifestyle. For that reason, we have to take care of the levels of vitamin D in our blood. We already know that vitamin D is essential for the regulation of the calcium in our body, it takes care of the bone density and prevents numerous diseases related to our bones thus preventing bone deformities.

We have to highlight its effects on our immunity. Vitamin D is there to minimize the risk of respiratory infections and regulate the blood pressure. Some recent studies have shown that vitamin D can play a key role in the prevention of up to 17 types of cancers, breast cancer being one of them.

Vitamin D can also increase the serotonin levels, which makes it a great way to deal with depression and other mental health issues. It also prevents diabetes type I because vitamin D can regulate the levels of insulin in our blood. And finally, this valuable vitamin has been recently tested, and the results show that it can help in the treatment and prevention of several heart diseases. As you can see there are more than enough reasons to take care of your vitamin D levels.

One of the best ways to get the recommended daily dose of vitamin D is from the sun, by spending some time exposed to direct sunlight. Sunlight exposure makes our skin and body start synthesizing vitamin D. However, there are many reasons why people don’t get enough vitamin D from the sun. The use of sun blocker creams is one of the reasons. Luckily, you can still get your daily dose of this vitamin from food and vitamin D supplements.

Some of the foods loaded with vitamin D are:

• fatty fish
• cod-liver oil
• eggs
• fortified cereal
• fortified milk

If you decide to take vitamin D supplements always talk to your doctor and strictly follow the doctor's advice. Of course, it is important to do everything it takes to avoid vitamin D deficiency but taking high doses of vitamin D for a longer period of time can be dangerous too. Vitamin D is part of the fat-soluble vitamins group which means that it gets stored in our body so vitamin D toxicity symptoms are quite possible, especially if you take more vitamin D than required.

So, it is recommended to check your vitamin D levels at least twice a year and react in time, no matter whether you are vitamin D deficient or about to experience vitamin D overdose symptoms.

First lady didn't donate to breast cancer fund; Gov. Beshear announces collaboration to fight many cancers

Though First Lady Jane Beshear made headlines Monday when it was discovered neither she nor Gov. Steve Beshear had checked off a donation box to support breast cancer research on their state income tax returns — something the first lady has encouraged taxpayers to do — the governor announced Tuesday the formation of a foundation exclusively committed to reducing the rates of several types of cancer.

Gov. Beshear, who was treated for prostate cancer in 1994, joined members of the newly-formed Kentucky Cancer Foundation to announce their plans

to reduce lung, colon, breast and cervical cancer rates. To do so, foundation members will raise private funds and pursue grants to pay for services like mammograms, pap smears, smoking cessation programs and colon cancer screenings.

The public-private collaboration would focus first on screening 4,000 uninsured Kentuckians for colon cancer. Beshear has put $1 million for the screenings in his current budget proposal.

"Our most recent information shows more than 24,000 new cases of cancer in Kentucky each year and of those, more than 9,500 Kentuckians die from these cancers," Beshear said. "This is a real problem in our state that is affecting the lives of every family. As a cancer survivor, I know firsthand that screenings and an early diagnosis will help save our citizens from this horrible disease." (Read more)

As for the tax gaff, the Lexington Herald-Leader's Jack Brammer reports the 2010 returns show the Beshears did opt to check the box to donate at least $2 of their taxes to the Kentucky Democratic Party.

Diane L. Brumback, a Northern Kentucky breast-cancer survivor and Democrat who participated in a news conference with Beshear in January to promote the state-run Breast Cancer Research and Education Trust Fund, said Monday the first lady should stop promoting the cause "if she is not going to do as she says."

A Beshear spokeswoman underscored that the governor and first lady are very charitable. "On their 2010 tax return, you'll see they donated nearly $19,000 of their gross income — that's more than 11 percent of their before-tax income," said spokeswoman Kerri Richardson. "Not only do they donate money to many worthy causes, including those that support breast-cancer research, but they give their time and energy to promoting those charities and non-profit organizations." (Read more)

New technology at UK allows for more comprehensive breast imagery, especially for women with much dense or fatty tissue

Technology that will enable radiologists to see individual breast structures without overlapping tissues obstructing their view will begin being used at the breast care center at the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center. It will be the only center in the state to use the 3-D technology known as tomosynthesis.

"In addition to providing the traditional top and side images of the breasts taken during a regular mammogram, tomosynthesis also allows the technician to take multiple X-ray pictures of each breast from many angles," a UK press release said. "A computer than combines all this information into one 3-D image."

The technology is expected to be especially useful for women who have dense or fatty breast tissue. More than 50 percent of women under the age of 50 have dense tissue and more than 30 percent of women over 50 have dense tissue. (Read more)

Screening has failed, the check it yourself breast cancer survival guide

There is growing disquiet in the medical community. The NHS breast-cancer screening programme, which invites all women to have three-yearly X-rays (mammograms) from the age of 50, has been said by some doctors to 'do more harm than good'.

This, coupled with the fact that one woman in eight now develops the disease 5,000 more diagnoses a year than a decade before and reports that many cases are dismissed by GPs who don't recognise symptoms, makes for confusing reading.

What all experts agree on is that early diagnosis is key to successful treatment. 'When a breast cancer is picked up through a routine screening mammogram, it's often cured,' says Lester Barr, a consultant breast cancer surgeon at the Christie Hospital in Manchester.

'When the disease is picked up through discovering a lump, the chances of a cure drop as the cancer is likely to be more advanced.'

Mr Barr admits that screening, which was introduced in 1988, could be improved but women should not be put off having mammograms. 'There is an argument that screening catches tiny tumours that would never have grown, meaning women go through unnecessary worry and treatment. And perhaps we need to better target women who are at risk.

'All women need to make sure they are doing enough themselves to ensure early detection. There are still women who know surprisingly little about how a breast should feel and look.' Here, Britain's leading experts give their essential guide that every woman should read.

LOOK FOR FAMILY PATTERNS
Breast cancer is hereditary in ten per cent of cases so it is vital for a woman to know her family history, says Professor Gareth Evans, consultant in genetic medicine at St Mary's Hospital in Manchester. 'Look for any patterns on one side of the family such as a mother, grandmother, aunt and first cousin who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. If there are at least two first-degree relatives – ie a mother and sister – who have had the disease, the risk is greater,' explains Prof Evans. The younger a woman is diagnosed the more likely it will be that her breast cancer has been caused by an inherited defective gene.

IF THERE IS HISTORY, GET A GENE TEST
The rogue genes, known as BRCA 1, BRCA 2 and P53, can be identified through a blood test. But this can be done only if a woman has a living relative who has had breast cancer and can provide a blood sample. Those who carry the genes have an 85 per cent risk of getting breast cancer. The options for women with a strong family history or who have been identified as carrying the faulty breast-cancer gene include yearly MRI scans and mammograms on the NHS. 'Together these can pick up 90 to 95 per cent of breast cancers early,' explains Prof Evans. 'But some women opt for a pre-emptive strike by having their breasts removed.'

Prof Evans is leading a study into the use of the drug tamoxifen, which may reduce the risk of breast cancer by 40 per cent. 'Do'’t take the contraceptive pill if you have a strong family history as the drug has been linked to an increase in risk,' says Dr Anne Trigg, a consultant medical oncologist at Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital, London.

ALL WOMEN MUST BE BREAST AWARE
Mammograms are not effective for women under the age of 50 as the breast tissue is still too dense. If there have been isolated incidents of breast cancer in the family, you can always consult your GP for an examination. 'Aside from lumps, they are looking for areas of the breast that feel subtly different from the rest  limpness, a harder area or a breast that feels more granular,' explains Mr Richard Sainsbury, consultant breast cancer surgeon.

Unexplained tiredness can be early symptoms of the disease. 'It's not necessary to do constant self-examinations,' says Mr Sainsbury. 'But be aware of any changes – particularly heaviness, distortions, or a change in size or shape.'

A RED RASH IS A RED ALERT
'Inflammatory breast cancer, which accounts for between one and five per cent of breast- cancer cases, can make the skin red and swollen, but it is often misdiagnosed as cellulite or a skin infection,' Dr Trigg says. 'Look out for a new and itchy rash around the nipple, discharge from the nipple or any difference in shape and size. It could be normal but always get it checked by your GP. And always check armpits for lumps.'

CHECK MONTHLY AFTER YOU HIT 30
Dr Trigg says: 'From the age of 30, self-examination should be done once a month, midway through the menstrual cycle.'

Using the pads of the fingers, feel in small circular motions round the breast and then move in smaller concentric circles until you reach the nipples.
Cover the entire breast from top to bottom, side to side.
Do this lying down, and then feel your breasts while you are standing or sitting.

'In the ten years leading up to the menopause, breast tissue begins to turn to fat and this can cause benign cysts,' adds Mr Sainsbury. 'Cancer can be ruled out by mammogram or biopsy. See your GP, who will refer you to a specialist.' Be familiar with the appearance of your breasts, checking that they are their usual shape, size and colour and appear symmetrical.

THE QUESTION: TO HRT OR NOT TO HRT?
At present women of 50 are called for a three-yearly mammogram through the NHS screening programme. But Prof Evans says: 'A third of breast cancers are picked up in the three years between mammograms.'

Self-examination is vital after the age of 50 when breasts may look different. A loss of volume can cause dimpling in the skin and as this can also be a sign of breast cancer, get it checked.
Prof Evans tells menopausal women with a family history to avoid hormone-replacement therapy as artificially raising hormone levels can increase risk of breast cancer. The hormone oestrogen, which can drive some forms of breast cancer, is produced by fatty tissue. So the fatter you are, the bigger the risk.

AFTER SCREENING STOPS . . .
Screening stops at the age of 70. If women wish to continue, then they can request it, explains Barr. He says: 'By the age of 80 any lump is likely to be breast cancer. Women should be aware of any changes.'

By ANGELA EPSTEIN

UK expert available for interviews today on National Mammography Day

A University of Kentucky expert is available for interviews this afternoon to discuss the importance of mammograms. The opportunity is in honor of National Mammography Day, which is today.

Dr. Margaret Szabunio, associate medical director for the UK Markey Cancer Center's Comprehensive Breast Care Center and division chief of women's radiology for UK HealthCare, is available for interviews from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2:45 to 4:30 p.m.

National Mammography Day is part of national Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The purpose of the day is to encourage women to get or make an appointment for a mammogram, which can sometimes detect a tumor up to three years before it can be felt.

A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast tissue. For every 1,000 women screened, about 80 will be called back for more evaluation. Of those, 15 will be recommended for a biopsy, and about one third of those women will be diagnosed with breast cancer.

To set up an interview, contact Allison Perry at 859-323-2399 or allisonperry@uky.edu or Teri Timmons at 859-323-2406 or teri.timmons@uky.edu. (Read more)