Breast cancer is one of the deadly conditions that people may experience. Many women are not aware of having it until it is too late. Due to it, nowadays there is greater awareness about this form of cancer. Today there are millions who are aware and dread breast cancer.
However, there are still many people who are unaware of the first symptoms of breast cancer. That’s because they may not stick to the basic guidelines provided by the specialists. Breast cancer may be impossible to prevent, but it is possible to detect.
It 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. We must also remember that initially breast cancer may not show any symptoms. However, the symptoms gradually begin to show up and women should be careful about them.
1. The first noticeable sign of breast cancer is that there is a lump in the breast. The lump may also be located around the under arm or near the breast. This lump must be monitored very often to see if it changes.
2. If you observe any change in the size of a lump or swelling in the breast, you should take it seriously, as it is a sign that whatever the lump is associated to it is growing or spreading. If it is cancerous, it means that the cancer is spreading.
3. Another sign that should be examined is tendering of breast nipples. If the nipples should become tender or discharge any fluid it is a sign that should be examined immediately. Furthermore, if it is inverted or pulled back there is cause for alarm.
4. Other 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.
5. Change in the appearance of breast may also be helpful in detecting breast cancer. A warm feeling, overall swelling, redness or a scaly look are signs to watch out for.
6. According to specialists, 86 percent of lumps or swellings in the breast appear to be non-cancerous. However, it is better to be on the safe side and do what is recommended.
7. Women should be aware of their likelihood of getting cancer. They should analyse their family history. Apart from this, cancer may also be caused by a typical hyperplasia, and delayed pregnancies.
It is believed that becoming pregnant over the age of 30 increases one’s likelihood of getting cancer. Not becoming pregnant increases the chances as well. Moreover, premature menstruation and delayed menopause are two other points to consider because they are also said to be signs of greater chances of cancer. Consuming alcohol every day may be another cause of cancer in women. Also, the use of contraceptive pills can also enhance the risk.
8. Women are advised by the doctors to conduct a self examination at least once a month. A mammography should be carried out annually, especially after the age of 40.
9. According to estimates, 96 percent of women who manage to detect breast cancer in its early stages and seek treatment promptly are healthy again within 5 years.
10. Therapy for estrogen replacement may also enhance the breast cancer risks if it exceeds 5 years. The risk may appear and disappear 5-10 years after the therapy is over.
Women should follow the above guidelines closely to prevent breast cancer. The Breast Cancer Site provides excellent information on the disease, diagnosis and treatment.
