Breast Cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, other than skin cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, right now, there are more than 2 million women living in the United States who have been treated or diagnosed with the disease. With these odds, it is not surprising that almost everyone you talk to knows someone, or a friend of a friend, who has been touched by breast cancer. As the nation recognizes National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it is important to not only remember those who have lost their lives to the disease or who are struggling to fight it, but also to educate yourself and your loved ones about how breast cancer develops, the warning signs and the importance of early detection.
Breast cancer is a malignant growth that develops in the breast tissue. The cancer commonly develops in the lobules or ducts of this gland, which make up the milk-producing part of a womans breast. But while breast cancer is much more common in women, it can also affect men.
At the Taylor Breast Health Center at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Center, we provide comprehensive diagnoses and treatment with state-of-the-art technology and equipment. We conveniently provide all services needed in one location for our patients, including full breast imaging, clinical services, diagnostic imaging and procedures, counseling and therapy, pre- and post-breast surgery care and education, and long-term follow-up of breast cancer patients. Among some of the innovative modalities available through the breast center are breast conservation, immediate reconstructions and breast remodeling, cryoablation (destruction by freezing) of benign tumors as an alternative to surgical removal, and participation in cutting edge-therapeutic trials.
It is still not fully understood what causes many types of cancers, including breast cancer. Some people have certain factors that may increase their risk of being diagnosed, such as identifiable mutations or strong family history, but regardless of a persons risk, the earlier any cancer is found, the better the chances are for recovery.
Along with the American Cancer Society, we strongly recommend women 40 years and older have a mammogram and clinical breast exam each and every year, and women in their 20s and 30s have a clinical breast exam at least every three years. We also strongly encourage every woman to learn and become familiar with their own breast shape and form in order to identify any changes as soon as possible. For a guide to self-exams, visit www.jhsmiami.org/taylorbreasthealthcenter.
Regardless of your age and family history, the most important thing for any woman is to alert your doctor right away if you notice any changes including a lump or swelling, skin irritation or dimpling; nipple pain or the nipple turning inward, redness of the nipple or breast skin, or a discharge other than breast milk. These changes do not mean you have cancer, but are some warning signs that should be checked by your physician.
