World Stroke Day 2015: Understanding BRAIN stroke and the need for immediate treatment--it is critical for everyone "to be stroke smart and learn the 3Rs of stroke" which are reduced risk, recognize symptoms, respond by rushing into the nearest hospital.

 Stroke / brain attack is now the second commonest killer in the world after heart attack and the first and foremost cause of permanent disability but people"do not think of stroke as a major health concern and taking action to learn about how to prevent and treat it."The reason to act fast when a stroke is suspected is because for every second that a brain stroke is untreated, 1.4 million neurons are irreversibly lost, for every hour that passes without treatment, the brain ages 3 years. It is responsible for more deaths annually than those attributed to AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria combined and in India alone, 4,500 people get a stroke every day. However, stroke is eminently treatable and preventable but timely medical attention is critical.

Stroke is a catastrophe, presenting commonly as a sudden onset paralysis of one side of face, or one hand and face or one full half of the body with or without loss of sensations. Loss of ability to speak and understand spoken words is another common feature. Losing vision on one side of visual field or one eye is the other feature. Sudden vertigo or dizziness, vomiting, loss of balance in walking, double vision, difficulty in swallowing etc. are also seen when areas affected are the lower portions of brain called brainstem. Recognition of these symptoms leads to correct diagnosis of stroke in 80% of the cases.

Strokes result most often (80%) from poverty of blood flow to parts of brain which are supplied by a particular artery feeding the brain of oxygenated and glucose rich blood which help brain to derive its energy. An active normal brain consumes more energy than any other tissue in the body. So oxygen and energy deprivation kills brain cells quickly. After a cessation of blood flow to brain, within one second around 32000 nerve cells die and it has been calculated that this may translate also into loss of 9 hours of human lifespan. Hence the most important principle in the care of stroke patients is a fast response.

Broadly speaking, two types of stroke exist. Nearly 80% of strokes are on account of impaired blood supply to the brain, resulting in the death of nerve cells in the affected area. The remaining 20% of strokes are due to bleeding into the brain which damages the brain by releasing toxic substances and by compression and pressure effects on the brain.


The symptoms of a brain stroke range from weakness in one-half of the body, blurred vision, speech impairment and incontinence to loss of balance and difficulties with memory and higher mental function. It is critical that we are aware of the early warning signs and symptoms of stroke and seek treatment at a hospital which is equipped with facilities such as CT scan and MRI, ICU as well as neurological and neurosurgical expertise round the clock. The reason to act fast when a stroke is suspected is because for every second that a brain stroke is untreated, 1.4 million neurons are irreversibly lost, for every hour that passes without treatment, the brain ages 3 years; and a very efficacious clot buster treatment which dissolves the clot that has cut off blood supply to the brain is safe and effective only within the first 4.5 hours after onset of symptoms. The earlier the treatment is started after symptom onset, the more effective and safe it is for the patient.


  Most important risk factors are hypertension, diabetes mellitus, high cholesterol, obesity but also includes all forms of heart diseases. Avoidance of tobacco and alcohol and abusive drugs and regular and adequate physical activity and healthy food and sleep habits help prevent stroke.For primary prevention (prevention of first ever strokes), the effective steps are to a great extent the same as for heart attacks.It is imperative to exercise daily, eat a balanced diet which is low in salt, fat and refined carbohydrates with adequate lean protein, fresh fruit and vegetables. Adequate sleep and work-life balance is as important as diet and exercise.

 Diseases affecting the heart such as heart valve problems and heart rhythm abnormalities are high on the list of suspects in young stroke patients. Some disorders of immune regulation may affect the arteries of the brain, causing them to lose their non-sticky surface and attract clots that disrupt blood supply to the brain. Recreational drug abuse, especially cocaine, is known to cause devastating strokes by causing clots and also bleeding into the brain.

One needs to act fast and reach a well-equipped hospital, making sure not a second is wasted. If there is one disease where the adage "prevention is better than cure’’ holds especially true, it is for acute brain stroke.

Once someone develops stroke, it is of paramount importance to prevent further strokes. Stroke rehabilitation is a specialized area and stroke units are perhaps the most effective measures in improving stroke recovery. The role of early mobilization of stroke patients and physiotherapy and occupational therapy are well-established.

FRIENDS!!!Stroke / brain attack is now the second commonest killer in the world after heart attack and the first and foremost cause of permanent disability even at very young age but people"do not think of stroke as a major health concern and taking action to learn about how to prevent and treat it. It is responsible for more deaths annually than those attributed to AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria combined and in India alone, 4,500 people get a stroke every day.

Since one of the largest obstacle to emergency treatment is that many people do not know they are having a stroke, it is critical for everyone "to be stroke smart and learn the 3Rs of stroke" which are reduced risk, recognize symptoms, respond by rushing into the nearest hospital. The world stroke organization has popularized this campaign using the acronym FAST - Face, Arm, Speech and Time.

http://www.dnaindia.com/health
http://health.ec
Watch the pop version of 'FAST' posted by ASA on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/TdQI3THY-R0onomictimes.indiatimes.com/news

World Stroke Day2015: Do you know any child can suffer a stroke?Help in World-Wide Pediatric Stroke Campaign

Earlier this year, in an extremely rare medical situation, two sisters aged 10 and 4 started having sudden weakness on one side of the body. Diagnosis revealed, both were suffering from a rare brain disorder called Moyamoya diseases that caused transient ischemic attacks or popularly called stroke. The siblings were taken to Manipal Hospital, Bangalore where they underwent surgery.

The case above, bust a popular myth that stroke happens only in older people. Here, Dr. Pawan Ojha, Neurologist, Fortis Hospital, Vashi, Navi Mumbai talks about the condition and how as parents one can spot it.

“A stroke happens when the blood supply to a part of the brain is cut off. There are two main types of stroke, a) Ischaemic strokes, are caused by a blockage in the blood supply to the brain and b) Haemorrhagic strokes, occurring when blood leaks from a burst blood vessel into the brain. In children, both types of stroke are equally common,” Dr. Ojha explains.

What are the symptoms of stroke in children?
Stroke in children can sometimes be difficult to recognise. The effects of the stroke may not be so noticeable if your child is very young and in the early stages of development, or if their symptoms are mild.
Dr. Ojha says, “Some children may not even have any symptoms. In babies up to 28 days old, seizures are a common symptom of stroke. Children aged from 28 days old to 18 years may experience weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, facial drooping, speech problems and headaches. These symptoms are most commonly associated with ischaemic strokes. Symptoms for haemorrhagic strokes can be vomiting, seizures and occasional headaches. For some children, the stroke is first detected when problems arise with their learning and development.”

Does stroke present in differently in children as compared to adults?
Common manifestations of stroke are weakness of face, arm and legs along with difficulty in speaking or understanding. Dr. Ojha adds, “Often stroke in children is difficult to diagnose early as it may present as only irritability of the child.”

What are the common causes of stroke in children?
There are several causes of stroke in children which can be broadly classified into:

a) Heart disorders: This cause up to 25% of ischaemic strokes in children. They can be a result of congenital heart disease.

b) Blood disorders: Blood disorders like sickles disease is another risk factor for stroke children, as in this disorder, the red blood cells change from their normal round shape to a sickle (half-moon) shape, and hence become less flexible with the possibility of getting stuck in the blood vessels thereby leading to a stroke.

c) Infections: Infections have also been associated with ischaemic stroke for example, chicken pox, tuberculosis, meningitis etc.

d) Vascular disorders: Blood vessels may be become abnormal and clot in children due to various reasons e.g. rare conditions such as arterial dissection (tear), moyamoya syndrome (blocking and puffing of vessels) and vasculitis (inflammation).

Diagnosing these condition early and providing proper medications and treatment on time, works as a preventive measure for parents.

Treatment and recovery in children
Neurologists are often able to dissolve or remove the clot blocked in an artery. Many people believe that children fully recover after stroke because their brain is still developing.

It is more accurate to say that children are better at adapting to the effects of stroke. Speech therapist, recreation and occupational therapist and psychologist also play important part in rehabilitation.

         FRIENDS!!!!! JOIN HANDS&
Ensure that the awareness and education grows for pediatric stroke.Please share any of these with  friends and family to educate them that strokes can happen to children, babies, teens, and even before birth. UNITE for CHANGE!It is important to us that this campaign ignites awareness and education across the globe by sharing.

For more information
http://united4pediatricstroke.org/unite-for-change/ and check out the resources for pediatric stroke.
http://www.worldstrokecampaign.org
http://www.dnaindia.com/health

The World Stroke Organization’s theme for World Stroke Day 2015 is ‘I am Woman’.Why women are more prone to stroke than men?

World Stroke Day is on 29th October 2015. The World Stroke Organization’s theme for World Stroke Day 2015 is ‘I am Woman’. The World Stroke Campaign has chosen to focus on this theme because a woman is

• more at risk of having a stroke.
• more likely to die from a stroke than a man.
• less likely to receive acute care and rehabilitation than a man, even though she responds equally well to treatment.
• more likely to experience a severe decline in cognitive function, and runs a higher risk of post-stroke depression and instutionalization.
• more likely than men to experience hypertension, atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat), diabetes, depression and obesity, all of which increase stroke risk.
• more likely to take on the caregiving role.
• Some stroke risks are also specific to women. Pregnancy related diabetes, preeclampsia, the use of birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy and hormonal change all increase the risk of stroke for women.

Stroke affects women, stroke affects everyone.

Share information about stroke prevention and ask the women in community  to have a health check to avoid preventable stroke and cardiovascular disease.According to data revealed by American Heart Association (AHA) in 2015, women are more at risk of suffering from stroke than men. They are also likely to die from stroke more than men.

It has been found that the risk factors that can lead women to stroke in women are unique to their gender. The risks are caused due to hormonal and reproductive issues, pregnancy, and childbirth.

What can women do?

To prevent risk from the intake of oral contraception: Since using the pill increases the risk of getting a stroke, the women must be screened for obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol before starting on it.
Reduce the risk during pregnancy

If women have high blood pressure before or during pregnancy, they must be treated with aspirin or calcium therapy as it will prevent pre-eclampsia, a condition which doubles the chances of stroke during or after childbirth. The women must control cholesterol and obesity as they are risk factors.

Cerebral venous thrombosis (strokes due to blood clots in veins than the arteries)

This condition occurs in the third semester of pregnancy and during postpartum is one of the leading causes stroke in women. This can be prevented in the post-partum period by stopping practices of restricting the intake of fluids during that time.

In older women,  untreated atrial fibrillation can lead to stroke.

While hypertension, atrial fibrillation, migraine with aura, and depression and emotional stress are common risk factors in both men and women, they are seen more in women.

According to some experts, women suffer from more severe strokes than men. They also tend to receive less care and rehabilitation than men.

FRIENDS!!! PREVENTION is BETTER THAN CURE!!!The World Stroke Organization’s theme for World Stroke Day 2015 is ‘I am Woman’.Some stroke risks are also specific to women. Every women to understand their stroke risk and take steps that will reduce the likelihood of preventable stroke. Encourage all women to make healthier lifestyle choices and get a health check from a medical practitioner.Stroke affects women, stroke affects everyone--reduce the global burden of stroke reach out to women to raise awareness of stroke prevention and risk.


http://www.worldstrokecampaign.org

NASA’s TIMED mission has confirmed a surprisingly fast carbon dioxide increase in Earth’s upper atmosphere using 14 years of data from a radiometer aboard the satellite.

The area near the surface of the earth can be divided up into four inter-connected "geo-spheres:" the lithosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, and atmosphere. Scientists can classify life and material on or near the surface of the earth to be in any of these four spheres.

NASA Goddard manages the TIMED mission for the Heliophysics Division within the Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington. The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Maryland, built the spacecraft for NASA.

Credits: Instituto de Astrofísica de Andalucía

NASA’s TIMED mission, short for Thermosphere, Ionosphere, Mesosphere Energetics and Dynamics, has confirmed a surprisingly fast carbon dioxide increase in Earth’s upper atmosphere, raising questions about how different layers of the atmosphere are interconnected. Even more curious—though climate models predict carbon dioxide should increase more or less equally across the globe, in its 14 years of data collection, TIMED data revealed that the carbon dioxide in these upper layers, long thought to follow the same patterns across the globe, is increasing faster over the Northern Hemisphere.Though the Northern Hemisphere produces much more carbon dioxide because of its greater land area and population, scientists expect the difference to become negligible at such great heights due to diffusion and mixing.
Understanding the way carbon dioxide moves throughout the atmosphere is key, both for making accurate climate models and for planning spacecraft flight paths. Though carbon dioxide raises temperatures near Earth’s surface, it actually causes cooling in the upper atmosphere, reducing air density in these outermost reaches of the atmosphere and impacting spacecraft orbits.“We tend to separate them into different fields—lower atmosphere is Earth science, upper atmosphere is heliophysics—but we need to understand the atmosphere as a complete system.”

Before TIMED, the only measurements of carbon dioxide in the upper atmosphere were direct measurements from sounding rocket research flights and short-lived spaceborne sensors.

FRIENDS!!!
Though carbon dioxide raises temperatures near Earth’s surface, it actually causes cooling in the upper atmosphere, reducing air density in these outermost reaches of the atmosphere and impacting spacecraft orbits.NASA’s TIMED mission has confirmed a surprisingly fast carbon dioxide increase in Earth’s upper atmosphere using 14 years of data from a radiometer aboard the satellite.


http://www.nasa.gov/feature/goddard
http://geography.about.com/od/physicalgeography
https://www.google.com.sa

Japan Quake May Have Shortened Earth Days, Moved Axis."These changes in Earth's rotation are perfectly natural and happen all the time." "People shouldn't worry about them."

Landsat satellites have taken specialized digital photographs of Earth’s continents and surrounding coastal regions for over three decades, enabling people to study many aspects of our planet and to evaluate the dynamic changes caused by both natural processes and human practices.The Landsat Program is a series of Earth-observing satellite missions jointly managed by NASA and the U.S. Geological Survey. Since 1972, Landsat satellites have collected information about Earth from space. This science, known as remote sensing, has matured with the Landsat Program.

The March 11, 2011, great earthquake in Japan may have shortened the length of Earth days and shifted its axis. Image credit: NASA

The March 11, magnitude 9.0 earthquake in Japan may have shortened the length of each Earth day and shifted its axis. But don't worry—won't notice the difference.


BEFORE TSUNAMI

This false color image of Sendai, Japan was captured by the Landsat 7 ETM+ bands 4,3, and 2 on February 24, 2011. Credit: USGS/NASA, Mike Taylor

AFTER TSUNAMI

This false color image of Sendai, Japan was captured by the Landsat 7 ETM+ bands 4,3, and 2 on March 12, 2011 and shows inland areas inundated by water from the tsunami, smoke from fires burning, and clouds of debris in the water. Credit: USGS/NASA, Mike Taylor

Before and after images from the Landsat 7 satellite show the after effects of the tsunami that followed the 9.0 earthquake off of Japan's east coast last weekend. A side-by-side comparison reveals inland areas inundated by water from the tsunami, smoke from burning fires and clouds of debris in the water.The black lines in the image are data band gaps.

Using a United States Geological Survey estimate for how the fault responsible for the earthquake slipped, research scientist Richard Gross of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif., applied a complex model to perform a preliminary theoretical calculation of how the Japan earthquake—the fifth largest since 1900—affected Earth's rotation. His calculations indicate that by changing the distribution of Earth's mass, the Japanese earthquake should have caused Earth to rotate a bit faster, shortening the length of the day by about 1.8 microseconds (a microsecond is one millionth of a second).

The calculations also show the Japan quake should have shifted the position of Earth's figure axis (the axis about which Earth's mass is balanced) by about 17 centimeters (6.5 inches), towards 133 degrees east longitude. Earth's figure axis should not be confused with its north-south axis; they are offset by about 10 meters (about 33 feet). This shift in Earth's figure axis will cause Earth to wobble a bit differently as it rotates, but it will not cause a shift of Earth's axis in space—only external forces such as the gravitational attraction of the sun, moon and planets can do that.

Both calculations will likely change as data on the quake are further refined.

In comparison,  magnitude 8.8 earthquake in Chile, Gross estimated the Chile quake should have shortened the length of day by about 1.26 microseconds and shifted Earth's figure axis by about 8 centimeters (3 inches). A similar calculation performed after the 2004 magnitude 9.1 Sumatran earthquake revealed it should have shortened the length of day by 6.8 microseconds and shifted Earth's figure axis by about 7 centimeters, or 2.76 inches. How an individual earthquake affects Earth's rotation depends on its size (magnitude), location and the details of how the fault slipped.

Anything that redistributes Earth's mass will change Earth's rotation.

"Earth's rotation changes all the time as a result of not only earthquakes, but also the much larger effects of changes in atmospheric winds and oceanic currents." "Over the course of a year, the length of the day increases and decreases by about a millisecond, or about 550 times larger than the change caused by the Japanese earthquake. The position of Earth's figure axis also changes all the time, by about 1 meter (3.3 feet) over the course of a year, or about six times more than the change that should have been caused by the Japan quake."

We can measure the effects of the atmosphere and ocean on Earth's rotation, the effects of earthquakes, at least up until now, have been too small to measure. The computed change in the length of day caused by earthquakes is much smaller than the accuracy with which scientists can currently measure changes in the length of the day. However, since the position of the figure axis can be measured to an accuracy of about 5 centimeters (2 inches), the estimated 17-centimeter shift in the figure axis from the Japan quake may actually be large enough to observe if scientists can adequately remove the larger effects of the atmosphere and ocean from the Earth rotation measurements. 

Gross said the changes in Earth's rotation and figure axis caused by earthquakes should not have any impacts on our daily lives. "These changes in Earth's rotation are perfectly natural and happen all the time."  "People shouldn't worry about them."

FRIENDS!!!Japan Quake May Have Shortened Earth Days, Moved Axis."These changes in Earth's rotation are perfectly natural and happen all the time."  "People shouldn't worry about them."

 For more information about Landsat, visit: http://landsat.gsfc.nasa.gov/.
http://www.nasa.gov/topics/earth/features

FRIENDS!!!BREAST CANCER-PARTC--Why need an Early Detection Plan --1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. When breast cancer is detected early (localized stage), the 5-year survival rate is 100%.

Imaging tests used to evaluate breast disease

Imaging tests use x-rays, magnetic fields, sound waves, or radioactive substances to create pictures of the inside of your body. Imaging tests may be done for a number of reasons, including to help find out whether a suspicious area might be cancerous, to learn how far cancer may have spread, and to help determine if treatment is working.

What is a mammogram?

The most effective way a woman can detect early breast cancer is through routine mammography. A mammogram can detect a tumor about two years before it can be felt by a woman. 

     A screening mammogram is an x-ray of the breast used to find breast changes in women who have no signs of breast cancer. Women ages 50 to 70 years should get a mammogram every 2 years. Women younger than 50 should talk to a doctor about when to start and how often to have a mammogram.

For a mammogram, the breast is pressed between 2 plates to flatten and spread the tissue. This may be uncomfortable for a moment, but it is necessary to produce a good, readable mammogram. The compression only lasts a few seconds.

If  breast symptoms (like a lump or nipple discharge) or an abnormal result on a screening mammogram -will have a diagnostic mammogram. This will include more images of the area of concern.

If diagnostic mammogram shows that the abnormal area is more suspicious for cancer, a biopsy will be is needed to tell if it is cancer.

Even if the mammograms show no tumor, if  can feel a lump, a biopsy is usually needed to make sure it isn't cancer. One exception would be if an ultrasound exam finds that the lump is a simple cyst (a fluid-filled sac), which is very unlikely to be cancerous.

If cancer is found, a diagnostic mammogram is often done to get more thorough views of both breasts. This is to check for any other abnormal areas that could be cancer as well.

Mammograms and Other Breast Imaging Tests has more detailed information about mammograms.

Breast ultrasound

Ultrasound, also known as sonography, uses sound waves to outline a part of the body. For this test, a small, microphone-like instrument called a transducer is placed on the skin (which is often first lubricated with ultrasound gel). It emits sound waves and picks up the echoes as they bounce off body tissues. The echoes are converted by a computer into a black and white image that is displayed on a computer screen. This test is painless and does not expose you to radiation.

Ultrasound has become a valuable tool to use along with mammography because it is widely available and less expensive than other options, such as MRI. Usually, breast ultrasound is used to target a specific area of concern found on the mammogram. Ultrasound helps distinguish between cysts (fluid-filled sacs) and solid masses and sometimes can help tell the difference between benign and cancerous tumors. In someone with a breast tumor, it can also be used to look for enlarged lymph nodes under the arm.

The use of ultrasound instead of mammograms for breast cancer screening is not recommended. However, clinical trials are now looking at the benefits and risks of adding breast ultrasound to screening mammograms in women with dense breasts and a higher risk of breast cancer.


Mammograms and Other Breast Imaging Tests has more detailed information about breast ultrasound.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the breast

MRI scans use radio waves and strong magnets instead of x-rays. The energy from the radio waves is absorbed and then released in a pattern formed by the type of body tissue and by certain diseases. A computer translates the pattern into a very detailed image. For breast MRI to look for cancer, a contrast liquid called gadolinium is injected into a vein before or during the scan to show details better.


MRI scans can take a long time − often up to an hour. For a breast MRI, you have to lie inside a narrow tube, face down on a platform specially designed for the procedure. The platform has openings for each breast that allow them to be imaged without compression. The platform contains the sensors needed to capture the MRI image. It is important to remain very still throughout the exam.

MRI can be used along with mammograms for screening women who have a high risk of developing breast cancer, or it can be used to better examine suspicious areas found by a mammogram. MRI is also sometimes used for women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer to better determine the actual size of the cancer and to look for any other cancers in the breast. It is not yet clear how helpful this is in planning surgery in someone known to have breast cancer. In someone known to have breast cancer, it is sometimes used to look at the opposite breast, to be sure that it does not contain any tumors.

If an abnormal area in the breast is found, it can often be biopsied using an MRI for guidance. This is discussed in more detail in the "Biopsy" section.

Mammograms and Other Breast Imaging Tests has more detailed information about breast MRI.

Other tests

These tests may be done for the purposes of research, but they have not yet been found to be helpful in diagnosing breast cancer in most women.


Nipple discharge exam--
If  having nipple discharge, some of the fluid may be collected and looked at under a microscope to see if any cancer cells are in it. Most nipple discharges or secretions are not cancer. In general, if the secretion appears milky or clear green, cancer is very unlikely. If the discharge is red or red-brown, suggesting that it contains blood, it might possibly be caused by cancer, although an injury, infection, or benign tumors are more likely causes.

Even when no cancer cells are found in a nipple discharge, doctors cannot be sure breast cancer is not present. If you have a suspicious mass, it will be necessary to biopsy the mass, even if the nipple discharge does not contain cancer cells.

Ductal lavage and nipple aspiration

Ductal lavage is an experimental test developed for women who have no symptoms of breast cancer but are at very high risk for the disease. It is not a test to screen for or diagnose breast cancer, but it may help give a more accurate picture of a woman's risk of developing it.

Ductal lavage can be done in a doctor's office or an outpatient facility. An anesthetic cream is applied to numb the nipple area. Gentle suction is then used to help draw tiny amounts of fluid from the milk ducts up to the nipple surface, which helps locate the ducts' natural openings. A tiny tube (called a catheter) is then inserted into a duct opening. Saline (salt water) is slowly infused into the catheter to gently rinse the duct and collect cells. The ductal fluid is drawn through the catheter and sent to a lab, where the cells are looked at under a microscope.


Ductal lavage is not done if a women isn't at high risk for breast cancer. It is not clear if it will ever be useful. The test has not been shown to detect cancer early. It is more likely to be helpful as a test of cancer risk rather than as a screening test for cancer. More studies are needed to better define the usefulness of this test.

Biopsy

A biopsy is done when mammograms, other imaging tests, or the physical exam finds a breast change (or abnormality) that is possibly cancer. A biopsy is the only way to tell if cancer is really present.
During a biopsy, a sample of the suspicious area is removed to be looked at under a microscope, by a specialized doctor with many years of training called a pathologist. The pathologist sends  doctor a report that gives a diagnosis for each sample taken. Information in this report will be used to help manage  care.

There are several types of biopsies, such as fine needle aspiration biopsy, core (large needle) biopsy, and surgical biopsy. Each has its pros and cons. The choice of which to use depends on specific situation.
Fine needle aspiration biopsy

In a fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy, the doctor uses a very thin, hollow needle attached to a syringe to withdraw (aspirate) a small amount of tissue from a suspicious area, which is then looked at under a microscope. The needle used for an FNA biopsy is thinner than the one used for blood tests.

If the area to be biopsied can be felt, the needle can be guided into the area of the breast change while the doctor is feeling (palpating) it.

Core needle biopsy

A core biopsy uses a larger needle to sample breast changes felt by the doctor or pinpointed by ultrasound or mammogram.

Vacuum-assisted core biopsies

Another way to do a core biopsy is known as vacuum-assisted. For this procedure, the skin is numbed and a small incision (about ¼ inch) is made. A hollow probe is inserted through the incision into the abnormal area of breast tissue. The probe is guided into place using mammography, ultrasound, or MRI. A cylinder of tissue is then suctioned in through a hole in the side of the probe, and a rotating knife within the probe cuts the tissue sample from the rest of the breast. Several samples can be taken from the same incision. Vacuum-assisted biopsies are done as an outpatient procedure. No stitches are needed, and there is minimal scarring. This method usually removes more tissue than a regular core biopsy.

Surgical (open) biopsy

Usually, breast cancer can be diagnosed using needle biopsy. Rarely, surgery is needed to remove all or part of the lump for microscopic examination. This is referred to as a surgical biopsy or an open biopsy. Most often, the surgeon removes the entire mass or abnormal area as well as a surrounding margin of normal-appearing breast tissue. This is called an excisional biopsy. If the mass is too large to be removed easily, only part of it may be removed. This is called an incisional biopsy.
Lymph node biopsy

If the lymph nodes under the arm are enlarged (either when felt or on an imaging test like mammography or ultrasound), they may be checked for cancer spread. Most often, a needle biopsy is done at the time of the needle biopsy of the breast tumor.

How is breast cancer classified?

After  a biopsy, the samples of breast tissue are looked at in the lab to determine whether breast cancer is present and if so, what type it is. Certain lab tests may be done that can help determine how quickly a cancer is likely to grow and (to some extent) what treatments are likely to be effective. Sometimes these tests aren’t done until the entire tumor is removed by either breast-conserving surgery or mastectomy.

If a benign condition is diagnosed, will need no further treatment. Still, it is important to find out from  doctor if the benign condition puts  at higher risk for breast cancer in the future and what type of follow-up ymight need.

If the diagnosis is cancer, there should be time for  to learn about the disease and to discuss treatment options with cancer care team, friends, and family. It is usually not necessary to rush into treatment. Get a second opinion before deciding what treatment is best.

Breast cancer type

The tissue removed during the biopsy (or during surgery) is first looked at under a microscope to see if cancer is present and whether it is a carcinoma or some other type of cancer (like a sarcoma). If there is enough tissue, the pathologist may be able to determine if the cancer is in situ (not invasive) or invasive. The biopsy is also used to determine the cancer's type, such as invasive ductal carcinoma or invasive lobular carcinoma. See "What is breast cancer?" for more about each type.

With an FNA biopsy, not as many cells are removed and they often become separated from the rest of the breast tissue, so it is often only possible to say that cancer cells are present without being able to say if the cancer is in situ or invasive.

The most common types of breast cancer, invasive ductal and invasive lobular cancer, generally are treated in the same way.

Breast cancer grade

A pathologist also assigns a grade to the cancer, which is based on how closely the biopsy sample looks to normal breast tissue and how rapidly the cancer cells are dividing. The grade can help predict a woman's prognosis. In general, a lower grade number indicates a slower-growing cancer that is less likely to spread, while a higher number indicates a faster-growing cancer that is more likely to spread. The tumor grade is one factor in deciding if further treatment is needed after surgery.

For invasive cancers, the histologic tumor grade is sometimes called the Bloom-Richardson grade, Nottingham grade, Scarff-Bloom-Richardson grade, or Elston-Ellis grade. Sometimes the grade is expressed with words instead of numbers:

Grade 1 is the same as well differentiated
Grade 2 is the same as moderately differentiated.
Grade 3 is the same as poorly differentiated

Grade 3 cancers tend to grow and spread more quickly.


What can I do to reduce my risk of breast cancer?

     The strongest risk factors for breast cancer are things that a woman can’t control, such as age, personal or family history of breast cancer, and age at menopause. Links with diet and obesity have been suggested, and the American Cancer Society advises that maintaining an ideal body weight may reduce breast cancer risk.

Women at high risk due to a family history of the disease should discuss their concerns with their primary care provider. Early detection of breast cancer through clinical breast exams and screening mammograms provides the best means of reducing the risk of breast cancer.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is an annual campaign to increase awareness of the disease. While most people are aware of breast cancer, many forget to take the steps to have a plan to detect the disease in its early stages and encourage others to do the same. A lot of progress but still have a long way to go and need  help!

How You Can Help?

There are many ways  can support those affected by breast cancer.

Support will help  provide mammograms, education and support services to women in need

Volunteer to help educate women about breast cancer..

Volunteers Make a Difference!

Spread the word about the importance of early detection and the services.

Join a charity that will work  to create a custom campaign and help make a difference in the fight against breast cancer.

Host a Fundraiser to help provide mammograms for women in need.

Show support. Donation helps provide mammograms for women in need.

                                                   Why you need an
                                                  Early Detection Plan 
1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.
The best way to fight breast cancer is to have a plan that helps detect the disease in its early stages. Create Early Detection Plan to receive reminders to do breast self-exams, and schedule  clinical breast exams and mammograms based on age and health history.

When breast cancer is detected early (localized stage), the 5-year survival rate is 100%


Looking for breast cancer spread

Once breast cancer is diagnosed, one or more of the following tests may be done. These tests aren’t often done for early breast cancer. Which tests (if any) are done depends on how likely it is the cancer has spread, based on the size of the tumor, the presence of lymph node spread, and any symptoms you are having.

Chest x-ray

This test may be done to see whether the breast cancer has spread to your lungs.

Bone scan

A bone scan can help show if a cancer has spread (metastasized) to your bones. It can be more useful than standard x-rays because it can show all of the bones of the body at the same time and can find small areas of cancer spread not seen on plain x-rays.

Computed tomography (CT) scan

The CT scan is an x-ray test that produces detailed cross-sectional images of your body. Instead of taking one picture, like a regular x-ray, a CT scanner takes many pictures as it rotates around you while you lie on a table. A computer then combines these pictures into images of slices of the part of your body being studied. In women with breast cancer, this test is most often used to look at the chest and/or abdomen to see if the cancer has spread to other organs such as the lungs or liver.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan

MRI scans use radio waves and strong magnets instead of x-rays to take pictures of the body. See “Can breast cancer be found early?” for more about getting an MRI of the breast.

MRI scans are also used to look for cancer that has spread to various parts of the body, just like CT scans. MRI scans are particularly helpful in looking at the brain and spinal cord.

Ultrasound

The use of this test to look at the breast was discussed in the section “How is breast cancer diagnosed?” But ultrasound can also be used to look for cancer that has spread to some other parts of the body.

Abdominal ultrasound can be used to look for tumors in your liver or other abdominal organs. When you have an abdominal ultrasound exam, you simply lie on a table and a technician moves the transducer on the skin over the part of your body being examined. Usually, the skin is first lubricated with gel.

Positron emission tomography (PET) scan

For a PET scan, glucose (a form of sugar) that contains a radioactive atom is injected into the bloodstream. Because cancer cells grow rapidly, they absorb large amounts of the radioactive sugar. After about an hour, a special camera is used to create a picture of areas of radioactivity in the body.

How is breast cancer staged?

The stage describes the extent of the cancer in the body. It is based on whether the cancer is invasive or non-invasive, the size of the tumor, how many lymph nodes are involved, and if it has spread to other parts of the body. The cancer’s stage is one of the most important factors in determining prognosis and treatment options.

Staging is the process of finding out how widespread a cancer is when it is diagnosed. Depending on the results of your physical exam and biopsy, your doctor may want you to have certain imaging tests such as a chest x-ray, mammograms of both breasts, bone scans, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and/or positron emission tomography (PET) scans. Blood tests may also be done to evaluate your overall health and sometimes can indicate if the cancer has spread to certain organs.

The American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) TNM system

A staging system is a standardized way for the cancer care team to summarize information about how far a cancer has spread. The most common system used to describe the stages of breast cancer is the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) TNM system.

The stage of a breast cancer can be based either on the results of physical exam, biopsy, and imaging tests (called the clinical stage), or on the results of these tests plus the results of surgery (called the pathologic stage). The staging described here is the pathologic stage, which includes the findings after surgery, when the pathologist has looked at the breast mass and nearby lymph nodes. Pathologic staging is likely to be more accurate than clinical staging, as it allows the doctor to get a firsthand impression of the extent of the cancer.

The TNM staging system classifies cancers based on their T, N, and M stages:

The letter T followed by a number from 0 to 4 describes the tumor's size and spread to the skin or to the chest wall under the breast. Higher T numbers mean a larger tumor and/or wider spread to tissues near the breast.
The letter N followed by a number from 0 to 3 indicates whether the cancer has spread to lymph nodes near the breast and, if so, how many lymph nodes are affected.
The letter M followed by a 0 or 1 indicates whether the cancer has spread to distant organs -- for example, the lungs or bones.

Breast cancer survival rates, by stage

Survival rates are often used by doctors as a standard way of discussing a person's prognosis (outlook). Some patients with breast cancer may want to know the survival statistics for people in similar situations, while others may not find the numbers helpful, or may even not want to know them. If you decide that you do not want to read them, skip to the next section.

The 5-year observed survival rate refers to the percentage of patients who live at least 5 years after being diagnosed with cancer. Many of these patients live much longer than 5 years after diagnosis.
Stage
5-year Relative          Survival Rate

0                                     100%

           

I                                     100%



II                                  93%    


III                                  72%



IV                                   22%

How is breast cancer treated?

These views are based on their interpretation of studies published in medical journals, as well as their own professional experience.This treatment information is not official policy of the Society and is not intended as medical advice to replace the expertise and judgment of  cancer care team.

Doctor may have reasons for suggesting a treatment plan different from these general treatment options. Don't hesitate to ask him or her questions about  treatment options.It is important to have frank, open discussions with  cancer care team. Don't be afraid to ask questions, no matter how minor  might think they are.


Be sure to write down any questions that occur that are not on this list. For instance want specific information about recovery times so that can plan your work schedule or  may want to ask about second opinions. Taking another person and/or a tape recorder to the appointment can be helpful. Collecting copies of  medical records, pathology reports, and radiology reports may be useful in case wish to seek a second opinion at a later time.

FRIENDS!!!BREAST CANCER-PARTC--Why  need an Early Detection Plan --1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.The best way to fight breast cancer is to have a plan that helps detect the disease in its early stages. Create Early Detection Plan to receive reminders to do breast self-exams, and schedule  clinical breast exams and mammograms based on age and health history.When breast cancer is detected early (localized stage), the 5-year survival rate is 100%.There are many ways  can support those affected by breast cancer.
Support will help  provide mammograms, education and support services to women in need
Volunteer to help educate women about breast cancer..Volunteers Make a Difference!
Spread the word about the importance of early detection and the services.
Join a charity that will work  to create a custom campaign and help make a difference in the fight against breast cancer.Host a Fundraiser to help provide mammograms for women/men in need.
Show support. Donation helps provide mammograms for women/men in need.

http://www.cancer.org/cancer/breastcancer/detailedguide.

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/37136.php

FRIENDS!!!!!BREAST CANCER--PARTB--What is male breast cancer? What causes male breast cancer?

Male breast cancer is a relatively rare cancer in men that originates from the breast. Most cases of male breast cancer develop in men who are 65 years of age, or over, although cases have been recorded in men aged who are between 20-90 years of age.

Breast cancer is 100 times more common in women than in men. The American Cancer Society estimates that each year, about 1,990 new cases of breast cancer in men will be diagnosed and that breast cancer will cause approximately 480 deaths in men. A man's lifetime risk of developing breast cancer is about one in one thousand.

Because the majority of information and research on breast cancer focuses on women, men can feel ashamed if they are diagnosed with an illness that is seen as feminine.

The estimated five year survival rate for early-stage male breast cancer is 75-100%. For mid-stage male breast cancer it is 50-80%, and for advanced-stage male breast cancer there is 30-60% chance of survival after five years from detection. What are the symptoms of Male Breast Cancer? A symptom is something the patient senses and describes, while a sign is something other people, such as the doctor notice. For example, drowsiness may be a symptom while dilated pupils may be a sign.

Adjusted for age and stage the prognosis for breast cancer in men is similar to that in women. Men will experience smaller tumor size and absence or paucity of local lymph node involvement. Hormonal treatment may be associated with hot flashes and impotence.

The most common symptom of male breast cancer is the appearance of a lump in the breast. In most cases, the lump will be painless.

Less common symptoms of male breast cancer usually affect the nipple. Such symptoms include nipple retraction, ulceration and discharge, where fluid begins to leak from the nipple.

If the cancer spreads additional symptoms may include breast pain, bone pain, and swelling of the lymph nodes (glands) near the breast, usually in or around, the armpit. What are the causes of Male Breast Cancer? It is not known for certain what causes the cells in the breast to become cancerous. However, a number of risk factors for male breast cancer have been identified.

About 85% of breast cancers in men have estrogen receptors on their cell membranes. Estrogen receptors on the cell membranes allow estrogen molecules to bind to the cancer cells. Estrogen binding to the cancer cells stimulates cell growth and multiplication.

Klinefelter's syndrome is a major risk factor for male breast cancer because men with the condition are 20 times more likely to develop male breast cancer than the male population at large. Klinefelter's syndrome is where baby boys are born with much higher levels of estrogen than normal.

A number of mutated genes have been linked to an increase risk of male breast cancer. For example, a mutation known as the BRAC2 mutation has been found in an estimated 5% of men with male breast cancer.

There is also evidence that male breast cancer can run in families, as 1 in 5 men who develop breast cancer, have a first-degree male relative, such as a father, or brother, who also has a history of breast cancer.

Recent developments on male breast cancer from MNT news
Breast cancer: study finds rise in double mastectomy among men
The rate of double mastectomy among men with breast cancer increased significantly between 2004 and 2011, reveals a new study published in JAMA Surgery.
Diagnosing Male Breast Cancer Typically self-examination leads to the detection of a lump in the breast which requires further investigation.

Biopsy, ultrasound and mammography may be sometimes used for further definition. What are the treatment options for Male Breast Cancer? Surgery is usually the first treatment option for male breast cancer, and usually involves an operation called a modified radical mastectomy. This involves the surgeon removing the entire breast as well as the lymph nodes in the armpit.

Estrogen hormone therapy can be used in cases of male breast cancer where there are estrogen receptors on the walls of the cancerous cells. This means that the cells can use estrogen to help them grow and reproduce. Therefore, the aim of hormone therapy is to block the effects of estrogen. In addition, Tamoxifen is a widely used medication in hormone therapy. It works by blocking the estrogen receptors so that estrogen is unable to enter into cancerous cells. In another treatment option, aromatase inhibitors block the effects of the aromatase protein which, in turn, lowers the amount of estrogen in the body.

Chemotherapy is used to treat cases of male breast cancer where the cancerous cells do not have estrogen receptors, meaning that hormone therapy would be mostly ineffective. Chemotherapy is usually given after surgery in order to prevent the cancer returning, or it is used to treat the symptoms of incurable cancer. Preventing Male Breast Cancer Early detection can help prevent the spread of cancer. If there is a history of male breast cancer in the family, a person should check regularly for lumps and report any changes to a doctor as soon as possible.

Friends!!!In general, leading a healthy lifestyle is a good way to help prevent male breast cancer, as well as many other serious health conditions.

Written by Sy Kraft (B.A.)
Copyright: Medical News Today
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles

Pink is the color for Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October. But is the femininity linked to breast cancer causing men with the disease to be forgotten?

There have been very few in-depth studies looking at treatment for male breast cancer, meaning health care providers are using treatments that have only proven to be effective in women with the disease.

FRIENDS—PARTB----What is male breast cancer? What causes male breast cancer?Breast cancer is 100 times more common in women than in men. The American Cancer Society estimates that each year, about 1,990 new cases of breast cancer in men will be diagnosed and that breast cancer will cause approximately 480 deaths in men. A man's lifetime risk of developing breast cancer is about one in one thousand.In general, leading a healthy lifestyle is a good way to help prevent male breast cancer, as well as many other serious health conditions--Read-Part A&Part C also.

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/283317.php?trendmd-shared=0

ATTENTION-Friends!!!!PART A--Breast Cancer---as October is officially the breast cancer awareness month, the steps to reduce risks and to detect any sign in its early stages!!!

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide. Being breast aware is part of caring for  body.Among diseases rife with old wives’ tales, breast cancer is probably one of the most misunderstood.

 What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that starts in the cells of the breast. A malignant tumor is a group of cancer cells that can grow into (invade) surrounding tissues or spread (metastasize) to distant areas of the body. The disease occurs almost entirely in women, but men can get it, too.

Pink is the color for Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October.

American Cancer Society Breast Cancer Screening Guideline
American Cancer Society breast cancer screening guidelines are developed to save lives by finding breast cancer early, when treatment is more likely to be successful. The Society regularly reviews the science and updates screening recommendations when new evidence suggests that a change may be needed.

The latest guideline applies to women at average risk for breast cancer. 
Among other recommendations, it says all women should begin having yearly mammograms by age 45, and can change to having mammograms every other year beginning at age 55. Women should have the choice to start screening with yearly mammograms as early as age 40 if they want to.
The normal breast
ANATOMY OF BREAST--

To understand breast cancer, it helps to have some basic knowledge about the normal structure of the breasts, shown in the diagram below.

The female breast is made up mainly of lobules (milk-producing glands), ducts (tiny tubes that carry the milk from the lobules to the nipple), and stroma (fatty tissue and connective tissue surrounding the ducts and lobules, blood vessels, and lymphatic vessels).

1. Chest wall. 2. Pectoralis muscles. 3. Lobules (glands that make milk). 4. Nipple surface. 5. Areola. 6. Lactiferous duct tube that carries milk to the nipple. 7. Fatty tissue. 8. Skin.

Image by Patrick J. Lynch and Morgoth666

Most breast cancers begin in the cells that line the ducts (ductal cancers). Some begin in the cells that line the lobules (lobular cancers), while a small number start in other tissues.

The lymph (lymphatic) system of the breast

Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped collections of immune system cells (cells that are important in fighting infections) that are connected by lymphatic vessels. Lymphatic vessels are like small veins, except that they carry a clear fluid called lymph (instead of blood) away from the breast. Lymph contains tissue fluid and waste products, as well as immune system cells. Breast cancer cells can enter lymphatic vessels and begin to grow in lymph nodes.

Benign breast lumps

Most breast lumps are not cancerous (benign). Still, some may need to be biopsied (sampled and viewed under a microscope) to prove they are not cancer.

Fibrosis and cysts

Most lumps turn out to be caused by fibrosis and/or cysts, benign changes in the breast tissue that happen in many women at some time in their lives.

Fibroadenomas and intraductal papillomas

Benign breast tumors such as fibroadenomas or intraductal papillomas are abnormal growths, but they are not cancerous and do not spread outside the breast to other organs. They are not life threatening.

What are the risk factors for breast cancer?

A risk factor is anything that affects  chance of getting a disease, such as cancer. Different cancers have different risk factors. For example, exposing skin to strong sunlight is a risk factor for skin cancer. Smoking is a risk factor for cancers of the lung, mouth, larynx (voice box), bladder, kidney, and several other organs.

But risk factors don't tell us everything. Having a risk factor, or even several, does not mean that you will get the disease. Most women who have one or more breast cancer risk factors never develop the disease, while many women with breast cancer have no apparent risk factors (other than being a woman and growing older). Even when a woman with risk factors develops breast cancer, it is hard to know just how much these factors might have contributed.

Some risk factors, like a person's age or race, can't be changed. Others are linked to cancer-causing factors in the environment. Still others are related to personal behaviors, such as smoking, drinking, and diet. Some factors influence risk more than others, and your risk for breast cancer can change over time, due to factors such as aging or lifestyle.

Gender

Simply being a woman is the main risk factor for developing breast cancer. Men can develop breast cancer, but this disease is about 100 times more common among women than men. This is probably because men have less of the female hormones estrogen and progesterone, which can promote breast cancer cell growth

Aging

Your risk of developing breast cancer increases as you get older. About 1 out of 8 invasive breast cancers are found in women younger than 45, while about 2 of 3 invasive breast cancers are found in women age 55 or older.

Genetic risk factors

About 5% to 10% of breast cancer cases are thought to be hereditary, meaning that they result directly from gene defects (called mutations) inherited from a parent. See the section "Do we know what causes breast cancer?" for more information about genes and DNA and how they can affect breast cancer risk.

Lifestyle-related factors and breast cancer risk

Having children

Women who have had no children or who had their first child after age 30 have a slightly higher breast cancer risk overall. Having many pregnancies and becoming pregnant at a young age reduce breast cancer risk overall. Still, the effect of pregnancy is different for different types of breast cancer. For a certain type of breast cancer known as triple-negative, pregnancy seems to increase risk.

Birth control

Oral contraceptives: Studies have found that women using oral contraceptives (birth control pills) have a slightly greater risk of breast cancer than women who have never used them. This risk seems to go back to normal over time once the pills are stopped. Women who stopped using oral contraceptives more than 10 years ago do not appear to have any increased breast cancer risk. When thinking about using oral contraceptives, women should discuss their other risk factors for breast cancer with their health care team.

Hormone therapy after menopause

Hormone therapy with estrogen (often combined with progesterone) has been used for many years to help relieve symptoms of menopause and to help prevent osteoporosis (thinning of the bones). Earlier studies suggested it might have other health benefits as well, but these benefits have not been found in more recent, better designed studies.

Breastfeeding

Some studies suggest that breastfeeding may slightly lower breast cancer risk, especially if it is continued for 1½ to 2 years. But this has been a difficult area to study, especially in countries such as the United States, where breastfeeding for this long is uncommon.

One explanation for this possible effect may be that breastfeeding reduces a woman's total number of lifetime menstrual cycles (similar to starting menstrual periods at a later age or going through early menopause).

Drinking alcohol

The use of alcohol is clearly linked to an increased risk of developing breast cancer. The risk increases with the amount of alcohol consumed. Compared with non-drinkers, women who consume 1 alcoholic drink a day have a very small increase in risk. Those who have 2 to 5 drinks daily have about 1½ times the risk of women who don’t drink alcohol. Excessive alcohol consumption is also known to increase the risk of developing several other types of cancer.

Being overweight or obese

Being overweight or obese after menopause increases breast cancer risk. Before menopause your ovaries produce most of your estrogen, and fat tissue produces a small amount of estrogen. After menopause (when the ovaries stop making estrogen), most of a woman's estrogen comes from fat tissue. Having more fat tissue after menopause can increase your chance of getting breast cancer by raising estrogen levels. Also, women who are overweight tend to have higher blood insulin levels. Higher insulin levels have also been linked to some cancers, including breast cancer.

Unclear factors

Diet and vitamin intake

Many studies have looked for a link between what women eat and breast cancer risk, but so far the results have been conflicting. Some studies have indicated that diet may play a role, while others found no evidence that diet influences breast cancer risk. For example, a recent study found a higher risk of breast cancer in women who ate more red meat.

Chemicals in the environment

A great deal of research has been reported and more is being done to understand possible environmental influences on breast cancer risk.

Compounds in the environment that have estrogen-like properties are of special interest. For example, substances found in some plastics, certain cosmetics and personal care products, pesticides (such as DDE), and PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) seem to have such properties. These could in theory affect breast cancer risk.

Studies continue to uncover lifestyle factors,environment  and habits that alter breast cancer risk. Ongoing studies are looking at the effect of exercise, weight gain or loss, and diet on breast cancer risk.

Tobacco smoke

For a long time, studies found no link between cigarette smoking and breast cancer. In recent years though, more studies have found that long-term heavy smoking is linked to a higher risk of breast cancer. Some studies have found that the risk is highest in certain groups, such as women who started smoking before they had their first child. The 2014 US Surgeon General’s report on smoking concluded that there is “suggestive but not sufficient” evidence that smoking increases the risk of breast cancer.

Controversial or disproven factors

Antiperspirants

Internet and e-mail rumors have suggested that chemicals in underarm antiperspirants are absorbed through the skin, interfere with lymph circulation, cause toxins to build up in the breast, and eventually lead to breast cancer.

Bras

Internet and e-mail rumors and at least one book have suggested that bras cause breast cancer by obstructing lymph flow. There is no good scientific or clinical basis for this claim, and a recent study of more than 1,500 women found no association of bra use with breast cancer risk.

Induced abortion

Several studies have provided very strong data that neither induced abortions nor spontaneous abortions (miscarriages) have an overall effect on the risk of breast cancer. For more detailed information.

Breast implants

Several studies have found that breast implants do not increase the risk of breast cancer, although silicone breast implants can cause scar tissue to form in the breast. Implants make it harder to see breast tissue on standard mammograms, but additional x-ray pictures called implant displacement views can be used to examine the breast tissue more completely.

 Do we know what causes breast cancer?

Many risk factors can increase chance of developing breast cancer, but it is not yet known exactly how some of these risk factors cause cells to become cancerous. Hormones seem to play a role in many cases of breast cancer, but just how this happens is not fully understood.

DNA is the chemical in each of our cells that makes up our genes—the instructions for how our cells function. We usually look like our parents because they are the source of our DNA. But DNA affects more than how we look.

Some genes control when our cells grow, divide into new cells, and die. Genes that speed up cell division are called oncogenes. Others that slow down cell division, or cause cells to die at the right time, are called tumor suppressor genes. Certain changes (mutations) in DNA that “turn on” oncogenes or “turn off” tumor suppressor genes can cause normal breast cells to become cancerous.

Inherited gene mutations

Certain inherited DNA mutations can dramatically increase the risk for developing certain cancers and are responsible for many of the cancers that run in some families. For example, the BRCA genes (BRCA1 and BRCA2) are tumor suppressor genes. A mutation in one of these genes can be inherited from a parent. When one of these genes are mutated, it no longer suppresses abnormal growth, and cancer is more likely to develop.

Women have already begun to benefit from advances in understanding the genetic basis of breast cancer. Genetic testing can identify some women who have inherited mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 tumor suppressor genes (or less commonly in other genes such as PTEN or TP53). These women can then take steps to reduce their risk of developing breast cancers and to monitor changes in their breasts carefully to find cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage.

Acquired gene mutations

Most DNA mutations related to breast cancer occur in single breast cells during a woman's life rather than having been inherited. These acquired mutations of oncogenes and/or tumor suppressor genes may result from other factors, like radiation or cancer-causing chemicals. But so far, the causes of most acquired mutations that could lead to breast cancer are still unknown. Most breast cancers have several acquired gene mutations.

Can breast cancer be prevented?

There is no sure way to prevent breast cancer. But there are things can do that might lower  risk., such as changing risk factors that are under control. (See the section "What are the risk factors for breast cancer?")

For example, body weight, physical activity, and diet have all been linked to breast cancer, so these might be areas where  can take action. This is discussed in more detail in American Cancer Society Guidelines on Nutrition and Physical Activity for Cancer Prevention.Taking a drug to lower  breast cancer risk may also be an option. 

This is discussed in more detail in Medicines to Reduce Breast Cancer Risk.

If a strong family history of breast cancer can talk to doctor about genetic testing for mutations in genes that increase the risk of breast cancer, such as the BRCA genes. If have such as mutation or come from a family with a mutation but haven’t been tested, could consider surgery to lower  risk of cancer.Eg-ANGEELINA JOLIE

Breast Cancer Prevention and Early Detection has more detailed information about ways to lower risk of breast cancer.

Can breast cancer be found early?

Screening refers to tests and exams used to find a disease, like cancer, in people who do not have any symptoms. The goal of screening exams, such as mammograms, is to find cancers before they start to cause symptoms. Breast cancers that are found because they can be felt tend to be larger and are more likely to have already spread beyond the breast. But screening exams can often find breast cancers when they are small and still confined to the breast.

The mammogram is the main test recommended by the American Cancer Society to find breast cancer early. The American Cancer Society also recommends breast MRI for women who are at high risk of breast cancer because of certain factors.

What are the early signs and symptoms of breast cancer?

-      Some of the warning signs of breast cancer include: a lump or thickening in or near the breast - or in the underarm areas

-      A change in the size or shape of the breast

-      A discharge from the nipple

-      A change in the color or feel of the skin of the breast

Widespread use of screening mammograms has increased the number of breast cancers found before they cause any symptoms. Still, some breast cancers are not found by mammogram, either because the test was not done or because, even under ideal conditions, mammograms do not find every breast cancer.

The most common symptom of breast cancer is a new lump or mass. A painless, hard mass that has irregular edges is more likely to be cancerous, but breast cancers can be tender, soft, or rounded. They can even be painful. For this reason, it is important to have any new breast mass or lump or breast change checked by a health care professional experienced in diagnosing breast diseases.

Other possible symptoms of breast cancer include:

Swelling of all or part of a breast (even if no distinct lump is felt)
Skin irritation or dimpling
Breast or nipple pain
Nipple retraction (turning inward)
Redness, scaliness, or thickening of the nipple or breast skin
Nipple discharge (other than breast milk)
Sometimes a breast cancer can spread to lymph nodes under the arm or around the collar bone and cause a lump or swelling there, even before the original tumor in the breast tissue is large enough to be felt. Swollen lymph nodes should also be reported to your doctor.

Although any of these symptoms can be caused by things other than breast cancer, they should be reported to  doctor so that he or she can find the cause.
How is breast cancer diagnosed?
Breast cancer is sometimes found after symptoms appear, but many women with early breast cancer have no symptoms. This is why getting the recommended screening tests (as described in the section "Can breast cancer be found early?") before any symptoms develop is so important.

If something suspicious is found during a screening exam, or if you have any of the symptoms of breast cancer described in the previous section, your doctor will use one or more methods to find out if the disease is present. If cancer is found, other tests will be done to determine the stage (extent) of the cancer.

-      Complete medical history

-      Physical exam which includes palpation of the breast and nearby lymph nodes.

-      Aspiration or needle biopsy to determine if a lump is a cyst or a solid mass - and to check cancer cells.

Medical history and physical exam

If  any signs or symptoms that might mean breast cancer, be sure to see doctor as soon as possible. Doctor will ask  questions about  symptoms, any other health problems, and possible risk factors for benign breast conditions or breast cancer.

Breasts will be thoroughly examined for any lumps or suspicious areas and to feel their texture, size, and relationship to the skin and chest muscles. Any changes in the nipples or the skin of  breasts will be noted. The lymph nodes in  armpit and above  collarbones may be palpated (felt), because enlargement or firmness of these lymph nodes might indicate spread of breast cancer. Doctor will also do a complete physical exam to judge  general health and whether there is any evidence of cancer that may have spread.

                     Some of the possible early signs of breast cancer

                                             Wikimedia Commons

If breast symptoms and/or the results of physical exam suggest breast cancer might be present, more tests will probably be done. These might include imaging tests, looking at samples of nipple discharge, or doing biopsies of suspicious areas.
The most effective way a woman can detect early breast cancer is through routine mammography. A mammogram can detect a tumor about two years before it can be felt by a woman. 

ATTENTION--Friends!!!!PART A--Breast Cancer---as October is officially the breast cancer awareness month,  the steps to reduce risks and to detect any sign in its early stages!!! Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that starts in the cells of the breast. A malignant tumor is a group of cancer cells that can grow into (invade) surrounding tissues or spread (metastasize) to distant areas of the body. The disease occurs almost entirely in women, but men can get it, too. Contd----

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/37136.php
http://www.cancer.org/cancer/breastcancer/detailedguide