Breast Cancer Flashcards
Breast cancer
Definition
Cancerous cells developing in the breast ducts
Breast cancer
Causes
Age - most likely to develop if younger than 50 and been through a menopause Family history - not hereditary Alcohol - 2 drinks per day higher risk Breast density Radiation
Breast cancer
Major symptoms
Lump or thickened tissue in one or both of the breasts
Look for; skin changes, redness/rash, dripping, dimpling, inverted nipple, lump
Breast cancer
Medical intervention
Surgery - removal of cancerous lump or removal of the breast
Chemotherapy - given after surgery to destroy cells that weren’t removed
Radiotherapy - starts a month after surgery/chemo to allow body time to recover
Hormone therapy
Breast cancer
Lifestyle changes
Reducing alcohol Quit smoking More exercise Eating better Counselling - macmillan, cancers trust counselling, Merseyside and Cheshire cancer network
Breast cancer
PIESF
P - hair loss, lack of exercise, weak immune system
I - lack of concentration
E - stress, depression, fear, anxiety
S - unable to do certain things, withdrawn
F - low wages due to time off