What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women.
Although much more common in women, men can also develop
this disease.An abnormal mass or group of cells in the breast is
usually called a lump or tumors can be benign(not cancerous)
or malignant (cancerous).

Who is at risk for breast cancer?
=> Family history of Breast Cancer-mother,sister,or daughter
     who has had the disease.
=> Personal history of Uterine or Ovarian cancer.
=> Late menopause(older than 55years).
=> Birth of first child age 30,or not having any children at all.
=> Previous radiation therapy.

What are the signs of breast cancer?
Early breast cancer usually does not cause pain.In fact, when breast cancer first develops,there may be no symptoms at all.However, as the cancer grows, it can cause any of the following changes, which women should watch for:
=> A lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the underarm area.
=> A change in the size or shape of the breast.
=> Nipple discharge or tenderness,or the nipple pulled back
    (inversion) into the breast.
=> Ridges or pitting of the breast (the skin looks like the skin of an orange).
=> A change in the way the skin of the breast,areola,or nipple looks or feels(for example,warm,swollen,red,or scaly).

When should breast self-examination be performed?
Give yourself a monthly breast self-exam and watch for any
changes in your breast that may indicate problem.

A early detection plan:
=> Clinical breast examinations every 3 years from age 20-39 for high risk groups.
=> Monthly breast self_examinations beginning at age 20.
=> Baseline mammogram and clinical examination by the age of 40 once every 1-2 years.
=> Mammogram and clinical examination every year for women over age 50.
=> Keep a personal record of your self -exams and mammograms.
=> To Do A Self Breast Exam.please refer to the instruction below
=> Mark your calendar well in advance to remind you each month.

What is mammogram?
A mammogram is a safe ,low-dose x-ray picture of the breast.
Mammograms are quick and easy.You simply stand in front of an x-ray machine.The radiologist who takes the x-ray paces your breast between two plastic plates. The  plates press your breast and make it flat. This may be uncomfortable for a few seconds, but it helps to get a clear picture. You will have x-ray taken of each breast.

What should be done when you suspect something?
Consult your doctor immediately when you suspect the presence 
of a tumor or any skin changes.

What are the most common treatments
for breast cancer?
Treatment for breast cancer usually includes one or more of the following:
=> Surgery
=> Radiation therapy
=> Chemotherapy
=> Hormone therapy.

Self Examination:
1.SEE:
Check in front of the mirror and look for any visual changes
in the breast skin and nipple including redness,swelling or discharges.

2.FEEL:
Check standing up; Using the pads of the fingers in a round
circular motion.
Check laying down; Hold arm while checking and choose
pattern to follow.

3.CONSULT:
Consult your doctor immediately when you suspect of a tumor
or any skin changes.

A N N I E  &  Z H A M