Health, Eye Care and other related articles

Breast cancer is one of the most relevant health issues women face today. In the U.S. alone, it is the second most common cause of death among women. Many commercials, non-profit organizations, and major media personalities have contributed to the increased awareness on breast cancer. More women are going to the doctor for mammography tests in case of growing tumors. Taking these tests as soon as possible has allowed more women to survive breast cancer.

Women ages 45 to 55 years are most affected by breast cancer. Recent research reports that cancer is caused by genetic or hormonal factors. Therapy will depend on the cancer type and how far it has spread. Treatment is usually done through chemotherapy, radiation therapy, mastectomy, or hormonal therapy.

Breast cancer in its earlier stages does not have obvious symptoms. Larger tumor growths lead to clearer and easier-to-spot symptoms. The clearest of all breastcancer early symptoms is a thickening in the breast or underarm area. Another indicator of a tumor is a breast's change in size or shape.

Discharge from the nipple is another one of the breastcancer early symptoms. Women should worry if the fluid discharged is bloody. Another symptom to watch out for is swollen or red skin in the nipple area. At times, the skin displays ridges, similar to what's seen in an orange. A doctor should be consulted if any of these symptoms occur. Allowing them to persist will only worsen the cancer which could be growing in your body.

Women with a genetic history of cancer should get a breast exam as soon as possible. The exam can be done by your area's local health provider. During the test, the arms are raised above the head or the hands are pressed against the hips. As you do this, the doctor will feel for shape or size variations between the breasts. The doctor will see if the lump moves easily. Soft, smooth, and moveable lumps are usually benign tumors. Firm tumors usually have grown cancer cells.

Breast cancer is killing more and more women each day. There may have been rapid developments in medical research but we must still do our part in taking care of our body. It is important for women to be more aware and regularly check for the symptoms. Ensuring your body's health will secure your future and the future of your loved ones.