Wellness

Of all the major diseases that can strike a women, the risk of breast cancer is probably one of the scariest - who wants to even contemplate having a breast removed?

Fortunately, modern technology offers many pain-free ways to do screening mammograms, and new cancer treating drugs are being discovered and approved rapidly. Let's examine some of the most common breast cancer questions and separate the truths from the myths.

Breast Cancer Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Numbers 1 to 5
Let's start by answering the first five questions women have about breast cancer.

1. Must I have my breast removed?

This is probably the number one frequently asked questions (FAQs) women have about breast cancer. Due to the disfigurement that occurs from a mastectomy, it is a real fear and cause for concern. While the ultimate decision lies with the treating physician, women can take comfort from knowing that lumpectomy, radiation treatment, or mastectomy offer equal survival rates.

2. How would l I know if I have breast cancer, and what are some common symptoms?

Doctors use many methods, like diagnostic screenings and biopsies, to diagnose breast cancer, and your safest bet is to consult your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following:

•Any lump in the breast
•Breast swelling, redness, tenderness, or pain
•Enlarged lymph nodes

3. What’s the best treatment for breast cancer?

At the time of this writing, cancer experts agree traditional cancer treatments, like lumpectomy, radiation, or mastectomy, give patients an equal chance of survival. Lumpectomies avoid the disfigurement that comes with mastecomies. The diagnosing doctor recommends the type of treatment that best suits each individual case.

4. My doctor wants to do an axillary dissection. What is that, and why would he order it?

This type of dissection is done to remove fat layers so they can be examined microscopically for cancer cells. Doctors typically order axillary dissections when cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, but because body fat is concealing the nodes, they are unable to determine the extent of the cancer cell’s spread.

5. What’s this lump in my breast and should I be worried?

Most women notice a lump in their breasts at some time in their life. If you are performing your monthly breast examinations, a lump will not take you by surprise, and is not necessarily a cause for alarm. According to information from the Fox Chase Cancer Center, “80% of lumps are non-cancerous.” Having said that, to be absolutely safe and make re you are not in the 20% range with a lump that is cancerous, your safest option is to consult with your doctor immediately, as he may want to perform a breast biopsy.

6. My mom, my sister, and my aunt are all breast cancer survivors. What are the odds I will get it, too?

Referring again to information from the Fox Chase Cancer Center, and other genetic research, typically one in ten women will inherit the abnormal gene for breast cancer. It is always best to talk to your doctor about any abnormalities in your breast.

7. What is Tamoxifen?

Marketed under the name “Nolvadex,” Tamoxifen is an effective treatment for cancers that are caused or exacerbated by estrogen positive receptors.

8. What types of prescription medications are approved for breast cancer treatment?

Currently, the following types of medications are FDA approved for treatment:

•Selective estrogen receptor modulators:Evista, and Fareston.
•Aromatase inhibitors: Cytadren, Arimidex, Femara or Novartis, and Aromasin
•Progestins: Megace, and Provera
•FDA accelerated approval, 01/29/2010: Tykerb (lapatinib)

9. What is a chemotherapeutic agent?

A chemotherapeutic agent is
Marketed under the name “Nolvadex,” Tamoxifen is an effective treatment for cancers that are caused or exacerbated by estrogen positive receptors.

8. What types of prescription medications are approved for breast cancer treatment?

Currently, the following types of medications are FDA approved for treatment:

•Selective estrogen receptor modulators:Evista, and Fareston.
•Aromatase inhibitors: Cytadren, Arimidex, Femara or Novartis, and Aromasin
•Progestins: Megace, and Provera
•FDA accelerated approval, 01/29/2010: Tykerb (lapatinib)

9. What is a chemotherapeutic agent?

A chemotherapeutic agent is defined as “ achemical substances used for the treatment of infectious diseases or the prevention of diseases.” This includes SERMs, aromatase inhibitors, and progestins.

10. What are the guidelines for the frequency of mammograms? Is there any way to have a pain-free mammogram?

The American Cancer Society guidelines for mammograms are “yearly mammograms starting at age 40 and continuing for as long as a woman is in good health.” New technology, like digital breast imaging and breast ultrasounds, offer a more comfortable way for women to have screening mammograms. Ask your doctor if this technology is available in your area. You may also want to ask about a breast cancer dipstick test.

For more information on alternative and natural ways to treat or avoid breast cancer, read "Foods to Fight Breast Cancer," or "How to Prevent Breast Cancer Naturally."

If you have serious concerns, please see your doctor immediately.