Fact One
In countries with developed medicine, more than 90 % of women recover from breast cancer. If the patients are diagnosed in the early (0-I) stage, the recovery rate is almost 98 %. By stage 2, the recovery rate is 93 %. Today, there are approximately three million women who have defeated breast cancer.
Fact Two
According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 1 out of 8 cases of breast cancer occurs in women under 45, and 2 out of 3 cases occur in women over 55. The risks are higher for postmenopausal women with excess weight, those who take hormone replacement therapy, and those with a family history of breast cancer at any age or stage.
Fact Three
Breast cancer can develop for over 10 years without showing any apparent symptoms. It can be diagnosed in the early stages only by a medical professional.
Fact Four
According to statistics, breast cancer mortality has dropped by 25 % after mammography was recommended as a part of annual checkups for women over 45.
Fact Five
Worldwide medical research has shown that full breast removal is not always recommended. In most cases, it is enough to remove that part of the breast affected by cancer and then do radiation therapy.
Fact Six
Not removing the breast is considered a life-improving solution for the patient. According to statistics, the chances of recurrence are 30 % higher when the breast is not removed.
Fact Seven
Even after mastectomy, it is possible to reconstruct the breast, restoring its form and even the nipple. This is decided by the surgeon depending on the patient's state of health and the stage of the disease. Sometimes, the reconstruction is done at the time when the affected tissues are removed. In this case, women have a normal breast — as it was before the disease — after the surgery.
Fact Eight
In some cases, breast cancer can be foreseen even before it starts to develop. In many cases, it is caused by genetic mutation of BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. This issue has received global attention thanks to Angelina Jolie, whose mother died from breast cancer. The actress has done a genetic test which has confirmed her having a mutation. Jolie has had both breasts removed, has inserted implants, and, in her own words, "has stopped being afraid of leaving her children orphans."
Fact Nine
Scientists have developed tests to identify another protein known as HER2, which is found in breast cancer tumors. It allows for applying targeted therapy for treatment, which affects cancer cells without damaging the healthy tissues.
Fact Ten
Previously, both naturally and artificially terminated pregnancy was considered a risk factor for breast cancer. However, recent research has shown this to be false.
Fact Eleven
The level of vitamin D in the blood affects the possibility of developing breast cancer. A 2010 research study found that the level of vitamin D above 60 ng/mL decreases the chance of developing breast cancer by 80 % compared to those who had only 20 ng/mL. While this doesn't mean that you should immediately start taking vitamin D, you should talk to your doctor to see if taking it would be beneficial for you.
Fact Twelve
Self-examination regularly is advised, which can help you to spot if something is wrong and seek medical advice. Here is how to check yourself correctly:
- Palpate each breast from all sides, moving in a circle
- Examine the symmetry of breasts and changes in their form
- Examine the skin of the breasts for unusual pigmentation, redness, spots, or roughness
- Slightly press the breast to make sure that there is no discharge from the nipple and that pressing the breast doesn't hurt
If you have one or several symptoms during self-examination, it does NOT mean that you have cancer. There can be numerous causes of such changes, but you should consult with a doctor as soon as possible.
