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Breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer affecting women, ranked only behind non-melanoma skin cancer. It results from an uncontrolled growth of breast cells. Normally, old cells expire and healthier ones take their place. However, genetic mutations can cause one cell to generate more just like it, instead of the healthier ones it should be producing. These "rogue" cells then collect and form a tumor. Benign tumors are not dangerous or cancerous. Malignant tumors, on the other hand, can be deadly if left untreated. These cells can spread throughout the body and wreak havoc. The term "breast cancer" indicates the presence of malignant cells.

The Importance of Early Detection

Breast cancer is responsible for more than 40,000 fatalities each year. It's the primary cause of cancer-related death in Hispanic females. It's also the second leading cause of cancer-related death in female Caucasians, African-Americans, Asians, Pacific Islanders, American Indians, and Alaskan Natives. Early detection is the first key to breast cancer survival.

Breast Cancer begins with genetic abnormalities, which are inherited less than 10% of the time. The majority result from aging and unhealthy lifestyle choices. Breast cancer risk factors include weight; diet; smoking; alcohol consumption; exercise; stress levels; estrogen exposure; gender; age; race; and genetics. Even the healthiest females may be diagnosed with breast cancer.

Approx. 13% of women will contract breast cancer in their lifetime. Fortunately, early detection can raise your odds of cancer survival from as low as 20% (Stage IV) to over 90% (Stage IIA). Mammograms and self-exams can help you find breast cancer when it's most treatable. Though 80% of sufferers are over the age of 50, young women should still check for tumors regularly.

Current Treatment Options

Breast Surgery: The two types of surgery that attack breast cancer are lumpectomies and mastectomies. A lumpectomy is the removal of a tumor, while a mastectomy is the complete removal of breast tissue. The surgery that's needed will depend on the stage of cancer. Either is followed by therapy (e.g., radiation, chemotherapy) to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Radiation Therapy: This highly effective treatment eliminates cancer cells that remain after surgery, reducing the risk of breast cancer recurrence by nearly 70%. Possible side effects include a "sunburn" on the treated area, fatigue, chest pain, and lower white blood cell count. Radiation

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