Beware and Be Aware of Breast Cancer

I'm switching gears a little in speaking about breast cancer, but it is a viable topic as many breast cancer survivors opt for reconstruction with breast implants.

There are many talented plastic surgeons who can closely match a breast implant on one side of your chest to the natural breast on the other side. As there are many cosmetic surgeons have successfully reconstructed both breasts for a survivor wanting to have her womanly figure. Some of the before and after pictures found on the internet of these brave women are truly amazing.

Simply being a woman makes you more prone to breast cancer. As woman have more breast cells than men, these cells get exposed to the growth-promoting effects of female hormones estrogen, thereby, increasing the chances of breast cancer development by 100 times more than men.

However, risk of developing breast cancer increases as you get older. A recent survey conducted indicates that 1 out of 8 women suffering from invasive breast cancer are younger than 45, while the ratio is 2 out of 3 women above 55 and older.

Women who started menstruating at an early age (before 12) or go through menopause at a late age (after 55) have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer.

Risk for breast cancer is increased after menopause for women who are overweight and obese. You do have to exercise ... for your heart, your weight, your bones, and your breasts. Do try to maintain a healthy weight throughout your life by balancing food intake with physical activity and avoid excessive weight gain.

I'm sure you know, the earlier the breast cancer is detected, better are the chances of early recovery. The most important point to remember is that if any significant change such as redness, swelling, development of a lump or mass, skin irritation, nipple pain and discharge other than breast milk occurs, please consult your doctor immediately.

Any changes in how your breasts look and feel should be brought to the notice of a medical professional as early as possible. Not all breast changes are necessarily cancer. Detect early, learn about the disease and protect yourself from being one among the affected.