Finding the Latest Information on Breast Cancer

With the increase in the incidence of breast cancer, new research is being published everyday. Some of the best places to keep updated about breast cancer information include articles on breast cancer and the websites of organizations such as thee the American Cancer Society, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Breast Cancer Foundation. While surfing the Internet, be sure to visit websites of official organizations. Virtually anyone can start a website with breast cancer information, but this information might be outdated or not reliable.

Furthermore, official organizations give information for free, so never fall victim to a scam asking you to pay for the latest information on breast cancer. If you prefer more in depth research that what is contained on the Internet, a trip to your local public or university library can also help you find the information that you need.

A Plastic Surgeon May Perform Your Reconstruction

Typically, breast reconstruction therapy falls under the reign of a plastic surgeon's expertise. If you are having the surgery after you have recovered from a previous mastectomy, you will need to research plastic surgeons and find one with whom you are comfortable. It is also recommended that you find a surgeon who has experience with breast surgery on post-mastectomy women. Get all the advice on breast cancer reconstruction that you can find.

Your needs may be different than those of a woman who has never had a mastectomy. It is also important to find a doctor who will paint a realistic picture of what your breasts will be like after the surgery. Breast cancer reconstruction does not always result in "centerfold-style" breasts, and a good doctor probably would not make such a promise. If you are having reconstruction done at the same time as your mastectomy, your considerations may be slightly different. Talk to your primary care physician about what might be the best options for you, and to recommend surgeons that might fit your needs.

Recommended Frequency for Breast Cancer Screening

All women should start conducting monthly breast self-exams when they are in their 20s. Clinical breast exams are usually performed by your doctor every two to three years while you are in your 20s - 30s, and every year when you are over 40 years of age. (This is assuming you keep your yearly appointments with your OB-GYN for your Pap smears and pelvic exams.) The recommendation for yearly mammograms usually begins when a woman turns 40, largely because younger breasts are usually too dense and fibrous to reveal much during a mammogram. Always follow your doctor's recommendations for regular screening. You should never be too busy to keep an appointment that could save your breasts, or your life. If you are younger than 40, and concerned about a high risk for breast cancer, talk to your doctor about the possibility of alternative breast cancer detection methods, like MRIs, that can take the place of mammograms until 40 years of age.

Taking Action as a Breast Cancer Survivor

Surviving a disease like breast cancer is a life changing experience. Many breast cancer survivors find fulfillment as volunteers for a variety of cancer-related causes, from fundraising, to increasing awareness about the disease. Survivors put a face on breast cancer and serve a crucial role in the strides being made to lower breast cancer incidence rates and mortality, around the world.

Whether you seek extensive involvement or just want a small role, there are opportunities available for you. Begin by contacting a volunteer organization, such as like the Susan G. Komen Foundation, or a local breast cancer support group in your community. Your doctor's office or hospital will also have details. Regardless of how the disease has changed your life, you can bring out the positive by reaching out to other breast cancer survivors like you.

Improving the Chances of Surviving Breast Cancer

Screening cannot be encouraged enough. It may be the single most important way to improve your chances of surviving if you get breast cancer. Beyond that, work with your doctor and commit wholeheartedly to your agreed upon treatment plan, to get the best results. Believe in yourself and keep a positive attitude, one of the best tools at your disposal. You should also watch your weight. Women who carry extra pounds when diagnosed with breast cancer, or who put on weight during treatment, seem to have increased breast cancer recurrence and mortality. On the other hand, a few hours of regular exercise a week has been shown to improve breast cancer survival rates in women being treated for the disease.

Difficult as it may seem if you are being treated for breast cancer, find time to exercise, and try to keep your weight under control. Reflect on this: After battling with breast cancer, the last thing you would want to do is face heart disease, which kills more women in the United States than breast cancer.

Taking Part in the Breast Cancer Research Program

The Breast Cancer Research Program is a joint venture between the military, scientists, medical professionals and breast cancer survivors. The program is unique among breast cancer research entities in that it actively seeks the input of those who may know breast cancer best--the people who've lived through it. If you are a survivor, patient, or family member of someone with breast cancer, you may be eligible to participate as a representative in the program and help provide breast cancer information. For more information, visit http://cdmrp.army.mil/cwg/apply.htm.