Breast Cancer Awareness by Lisa

My grandma, who is one of the closest people in the world to me, was diagnosed with breast cancer. Our entire family is very fortunate that she is one of the success stories. She is a breast cancer survivor and has been living cancer free. Her illness prompted me to do as much research as I can on breast cancer.

I learned that breast cancer is the most frequently occurring cancer and that it is the leading cause of death for women with cancer. A personal family history increases risks for people whose family members have had cancer. Men can get breast cancer too.

A few tips to help lower the risk of getting breast cancer:

*Control your weight and exercise.
*Know your family history of breast cancer and learn about genetic screenings that may be available.
*Limit alcohol intake.

There are many different types of treatment for breast cancer. The treatment depends on the type and stage of the cancer, whether the cancer is sensitive to certain hormones, whether the cancer overproduces a gene called Her2.

Most women receive a combination of treatments. Some of the treatments are:

*Chemotherapy to kill the cancer cells.
*Radiation to destroy cancerous tissue.
*Hormonal therapy works to prevent the growth of homone-sensitive breast cancers and may protect from breast cancer coming back.
*Surgery to remove cancerous tissue. A lumpectomy removes the lump. A mastectomy removes all or part of the breast.

As is true with anything in life and especially in coping with an illness, a good support system is key. Friends and family can provide excellent support. In addition to that, support groups can help ease the stress of living with the illness and talking with others going through the same things can help those with breast cancer not feel so alone. Speaking with an oncology social worker can help people with breast cancer work through their emotions. Many hospitals have libraries just for people with cancer if they want to do their own research. People sometimes find comfort in their religious community. Breast cancer helplines are available too. Different support systems work for different people. It’s just important to find what support system(s) works best for each individual.

I have participated in many breast cancer walks with my mom both in Illinois and in Arizona in honor of my grandma and to help in the fight to end breast cancer. I look forward to continue showing my support for such a wonderful cause.