The treatment of breast cancer depends on the nature and location of the tumor and stage of disease. The doctor also takes into account the patient age, hormonal status and general condition. There are several therapies, offered alone or in combination.

1. Surgery

Surgery remains the treatment most commonly practiced.

The surgeon removes the tumor, which will be analyzed by the pathologist, to specify the size, aggressiveness, the presence or absence of hormone receptors. These data are essential to the choice of therapeutic option.

The type of surgery (total removal of the mammary gland, or lumpectomy) depends essentially on the size of the tumor clinic. In the same operation, it achieves axillary dissection on the same side as the tumor, to detect any cancer foci in the lymph nodes examined. This dissection may be limited by the methods of scintigraphic study coupled with extemporaneous histological examination performed in the operating room, and shows the absence or presence of cancer cells in lymph nodes removed first (sentinel node).

It is important to examine these nodes because they filter the lymph that flows from the breast and across the organization. They represent the first sites of tumor spread. If the lymph nodes examined were positive, there may be cancer cells during migration in the body. This risk will determine the choice of treatment after surgery. All information gathered in the “staging”.

Different types of surgeries are performed in the treatment of breast cancer. The technique used depends on several factors but primarily on the size and location of the tumor:

• Lumpectomy: removal of the tumor.
• Partial mastectomy: removal of the tumor, a portion of surrounding tissue and lining the chest muscles near the tumor.
• modified radical mastectomy: removal of the breast and the lining of the pectoral muscles (keeping the muscles).
• or radical mastectomy Halsted operation: removal of the entire breast, chest muscles, and some fatty tissue and skin. It is no longer practiced today because very mutilating.

2. Radiotherapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells and prevent their development. Like surgery, it is a local treatment, without any action on any remote metastatic sites. It can be administered in different ways:

• either from an external source of radiation;
• or from radioactive materials implanted directly into the breast. This is known as “brachytherapy”.

Both methods can be combined. External radiation therapy is most often done without hospitalization. At the end of this conventional radiotherapy, an overlay can be performed radiotherapy to the tumor site. This additional radiation therapy can also be applied by brachytherapy. In the latter case, the patient should be hospitalized for a short period.

Radiotherapy is often used to complement surgery, either before (known preoperative radiotherapy, the aim being to reduce the size of the tumor) or after (it is then postoperative radiotherapy, the aim to prevent a recurrence of the tumor).

3. Chemotherapy

It comprises a single drug or a combination of anti-tumor (most common), it is a treatment whose interests the general circulation throughout the body (treatment called “systemic” just like hormone treatments as opposed to “local” as surgery or radiotherapy). It can be administered before or after surgery.

If it is prescribed to destroy any metastatic foci after surgery, it is called “adjuvant”. Its guidance depends on a number of factors called “prognostic”.

The main drug treatments combine the molecules of doxorubicin (anthracycline family) of cyclophosphamide or fluorouracil. Molecules from a tree, yew, also made their appearance: they are the taxanes used in metastatic breast cancer and recently in an earlier stage of the disease.

4. Hormone

Hormone therapy is a “systemic”. It aims to prevent, in some cases, tumor cells receive hormones for their development. His administration is determined based on hormone receptor in tumor tissues.

This method involves inhibiting the production of hormones implicated, either by administration of anti-hormones, or by suppressing production of these hormones (definition: surgical castration or radiotherapy, or transiently: chemical castration).

The choice between chemotherapy, hormone therapy or both, is a function of patient age, hormonal status and the detection of hormone receptors. If positive, hormone therapy is usually effective.

5. Targeted therapies

Therapies targeted specifically to attack cancer cells without touching healthy cells.One therapeutic target is based on “monoclonal antibodies”. They are manufactured specifically for antibodies recognize an antigen expressed by a tumor. These monoclonal antibodies can be directly targeting the tumor or its environment.Trastuzumab (Herceptin ®) is one of these molecules, whose mode of action is to attack the tumors overexpressing (that is to say too much) a protein (HER2). It is used alone or in combination with chemotherapy.

Other targeted therapies will block the growth of blood vessels needed for tumor development. ”Hungry,” the latter, will stop proliferating or die. These are molecules called “anti-angiogenic” such as sunitinib.

The “borderline lesions. These cancers in situ or noninvasive, should be considered separately. Treatment can range from conservative surgery to mastectomy, the choice of therapy depends mainly on the histological type encountered.

In some cases, radiation therapy may be necessary after partial surgery. In contrast, treatment of inflammatory cancer chemotherapy based on early and aggressively, then surgery and / or radiotherapy, and as appropriate, hormone.

Early diagnosis is especially important in the case of breast cancer before it’s to spin off the disease responds best to treatment.

The doctor will perform a complete physical examination, and conduct a detailed investigation of personal or family history of the patient.

1. Clinical examination

The doctor observed whether the skin covering the breasts will change in some areas, asking the patient to put his arm in different positions.

A careful palpation of the breast can say many things about the medical nature of a lump. Its size, its consistency, so it rolls under your finger, etc..

2. Mammography

A radiograph can provide the physician with important information about a lump or swelling in the breast.

This examination can reveal tumors too small to be detected by palpation (microcalcifications, for example).

In addition to the mammogram, the doctor has other methods to aid in diagnosis.

3. MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging, is a means of investigation in the diagnosis and therapeutic monitoring of cancer.

Providing a visualization of anatomical sections extremely thin, it allows to differentiate diseased tissue and healthy tissue to perform a “mapping” very accurate three-dimensional tumors.

4. Ultrasound

It can produce images from the echo of high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) sent in the breast.

Ultrasound is often more effective in young women who have dense breasts.

5. Samples

• The aspiration cytology or biopsy: vacuuming using a needle and syringe some fluid or tissue size, we will know if it is a cyst (and not a cancer) or a solid mass (which can be cancerous or not).
• Biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. This technique involves removing part or all of a lump or a suspicious area, and to examine anatomical and pathological microscope. It is usually performed under local anesthesia.

6. Analysis

If breast cancer is found, the pathologist may specify the type. Other laboratory tests, more specialized, are sometimes performed on cancerous tissue, to better understand the cells that form them.

If the biopsy shows cancer, it is necessary to conduct tests on the tumor (dose estrogen receptor and progesterone). These reviews are intended to determine whether hormones feed the tumor and facilitate its growth (hormone-dependent tumors). This information gives the physician the opportunity to decide the value of hormone therapy, either immediately or subsequently.

7. Staging

It also has a number of tests to determine whether the disease has spread to other parts of the body. They are the “staging”.

Will be performed blood tests, chest radiograph, bone scan and laboratory tests, including tumor markers (CA15-3).

Breast cancer can swarm into the lungs, liver, bones or brain, the doctor may order tests specific for these organs. All of these tests allows the physician to assess the extent or stage of disease. It evaluates the size of the tumor, the existence of a clinically node-negative, then the presence of distant metastases of the breast. This is the “TNM” which allows the physician to develop a therapeutic strategy.

8. The Treatment Planning

The treatment strategy developed by the physician depends on the TNM

T: tumor size. Of T0 (primary tumor) to T4 (tumor extending to the chest wall or skin)
N: lymph node
M: the presence or absence of metastases

Finally, the record allows for a classification of cancer: Stage I to Stage IV. Are also taken into account in developing a treatment, patient age, hormonal status (menopause or not), his general condition and certain tumor characteristics (expression of hormone receptors, for example).

More detecting breast cancer early is more likely 16122/guérison16117 / are important. More detail on breast cancer screening.

1. Symptoms of Breast Cancer

The breasts are in women, a great diversity of size, shape and texture. A woman sees her breasts also change throughout his life.

These changes may be related to many factors: age, menstrual cycle, pregnancy, birth control pills or other hormones. A swelling or induration within or armpit or any other abnormal change and persistent should lead them to consult his doctor.

Each woman should also be regularly examining the breasts by a physician, whether generalist, a gynecologist or doctor.

Breast cancer can occur with other symptoms such as:

• a change in size or shape of a breast;
• a discharge from the nipple;
• a change of color or texture of the skin of the breast or areola.

The pain is usually not a 9212/signe16117 / breast cancer. However, any change affecting the breast should be reported immediately to a doctor. Symptoms may be caused by cancer or by a number of other conditions.

2. Breast cancer: mass screening

Research has proven that it is possible to detect breast cancer long before it is palpable, and that mammography combined with clinical examination could reduce mortality from this cancer.

Since the Cancer Plan, breast cancer has a systematic organized screening test is supported 100% by Social Security. Women 50 to 74 are invited every two years to visit a certified radiologist of their choice.

After a clinical examination (palpation), this practice a mammogram (breast X-ray). If the snapshot is normal, it will be read by another practitioner. If an abnormal image is detected, the radiologist practice exams complementary expansion of shots, ultrasound, and if the judge is required to practice a levy under local anesthesia for analysis of cells under a microscope.

Breast cancer in humans. Breast cancer in men is 1% of all cancers and 0.5% of male cancers. His event is so unique it is often ignored, at least neglected. However, as in women, the chances of recovery are more important than screening, diagnosis and treatment are early.

Breast cancer is the leading female cancers with 50,000 new cases per year.  Some factors increase the risk of developing breast cancer.

1. Risk factors for breast cancer

Many diseases have a unique and identifiable cause, such as a virus or bacteria.

Cancers, however, are diseases called “multifactorial”, the causes are multiple.Genetic abnormalities responsible for malignant transformation, due to various disturbing elements.

The work of epidemiologists is to identify and assess these risk factors. Scientific work has shown that certain factors increase the risk of developing breast cancer.

2. Age

Two thirds of breast cancers occur after age 50.

The disease is rare in women under 35 years old and quite outstanding below 20 years.

3. Family history

The risk of having breast cancer is doubled in a woman whose mother or sister had the disease.

If the cancer occurred in the mother before menopause, the risk in girls is even higher.

The existence of familial forms of breast cancer has long been known. Research has shown recently that genes predisposing to breast cancer and / or ovarian cancer are transmitted in families and give to women who are carrying a significant risk of developing breast cancer.

Most of these genes have been identified, which allows for genetic counseling in these families.

4. Heredity and breast cancer

It is estimated that 5-10% of breast cancers are linked to genetic predisposition.Through the study of familial cases, basic research has identified two susceptibility genes: BRCA1 and BRCA2. Alterations in these genes are responsible for more than 80% of hereditary forms of breast and ovarian cancer and 65% of hereditary forms of breast cancer alone.

Mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 are associated with a predisposition to breast and ovarian cancer, those of the BRCA2 gene induce rather high risk of breast cancer at an early age.

5. Personal history

Having had cancer in one breast means that the risk of having a second in the other breast is 4-5 times higher than average.

About 15% of women treated for breast cancer eventually develop cancer in the other breast. This risk is above average among women with early menarche were or that menopause is delayed, or in those who had their first child after age 30 years, or are childless.

The 9852/recherchesO-16117 / recent evidence suggests that the 16,084 / alimentation16117 / may affect the development of certain cancers. Breast cancer and appears most frequently in women with a diet high in fat.

6. Breast Cancer: breastfeed to protect themselves

Several studies have shown, women who breastfed see the risk of breast cancer decline. The protective effect is even more important than the cumulative duration of breastfeeding is long.

Have breast fed for 12 months of life is associated with a decrease of 4 to 5% risk of breast cancer. That’s what came to demonstrate different teams of scientists studying data on several tens of thousands of women around the world. It appears that there is an inverse association between cumulative duration of lactation (the sum of past periods to nurse one or more children) and the risk of breast cancer.

Thus, women who breastfed 18 months, the risk of breast cancer is lowered further (-6 to 7%).

The biological mechanisms behind protective phenomenon are still poorly understood.However, researchers believe they depend on changes in hormonal impregnation.

Breastfeeding in fact leads to a decrease in activity of the ovaries (not ovulating) and thus exposure to female hormones. Now it is established that these hormones play an important role in the risk of breast cancer.

Our diet can help reduce our risk of cancer. Two key ideas to achieve this: moderation and variety.

1. Adopt a balanced and varied diet

Research has established a link between our diets and the occurrence of many cancers. To eat better and preserve our health, no need to refrain from eating a particular food, the idea is to adopt a balanced and varied diet.

Consume each day at least five fruits and various vegetables (whatever the form: raw, cooked, fresh, canned or frozen). They play a protective role and diminish the risk of cancers of the mouth, pharynx, larynx, esophagus, lung (fruit only) and stomach.

Also consume more fiber foods such as wholemeal bread and cereals. Plant fibers, facilitating digestion, have a protective role vis-à-vis the colon and rectum.

Alternate consumption of red meat with white meat, fish, eggs and pulses and limit intake of meats. Consumption of meats and excessive consumption of red meat promote the occurrence of colorectal cancers.

Limit salt intake by reducing consumption of salty processed foods (meats, cheeses …) and adding salt during cooking and plate. The consumption of salt and salty foods is associated with an increased risk of developing stomach cancer.

Except for special cases of disability and under the supervision of a physician, do not eat food supplements. It has been shown that the consumption of dietary supplements containing beta-carotene increases the risk of lung cancer in smokers.

Avoid the sun’s harmful rays, it’s pretty simple … if you know when and how to protect themselves.

1. The sun

Not surprisingly, the “sun”, with its dazzling light and high heat, requires caution. Do not neglect the diffuse light, especially on cloudy or foggy: the absence of clearly drawn shadow simply means that the rays come from everywhere at once!

Do not forget that the soil, especially when it is clear (sand, snow, water) reflects light.Moreover, the dose of ultraviolet radiation received does not depend on the sensation of heat. Distrust so windy, it’s cool … or that it leaves the water.

2. The four basic rules for all and in all circumstances

Avoid exposure during midday, from 12h to 16h in our latitudes. The sun is at its zenith and the intensity of UVB radiation at its maximum.

Hedge. Wear as much as possible into dry clothes, covering, but light-mesh, and a hat and sunglasses to filter glasses (certified UV) and wraparound frame.

Seek shade. Whether in town or in nature, prefer shade. Warning: at the beach, the umbrella does not protect the reverb on the sand.

Use sunscreen filters. Apply a thick layer on the exposed parts of the body, twenty minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours (and after the bath). Caution: Use a sunscreen does not extend much sun exposure.

3. Attention to children and vulnerable people.

Children’s skin is poorly defended against ultraviolet rays. It must therefore be protected very carefully, although they tend to recklessness. This is especially important that adverse effects are cumulative of repeated sunburns during childhood are a risk factor for skin cancer in adulthood.

Never expose babies! Even among adults, some people are more sensitive than others.

4. Attention to drugs and cosmetics!

Some medicines and cosmetics, combined with the action of sunlight, can trigger allergic reactions or contribute to sunburn. Read the instructions carefully and avoid exposure if a problem is reported.

To reduce their risk of cancer, it is recommended to limit consumption of alcoholic beverages, not only in terms of quantity but also in terms of frequency. An update on the current recommendations for alcohol consumption and health prevention.

1. Alcohol and overall health

To remain in good general health, “National Nutrition and Health” recommends adults to limit their alcohol intake to three drinks per day for men and two women (except pregnant women should refrain from consumption alcoholic beverage).

2. Alcohol and Cancer

However, in the prevention of cancer, regular consumption of alcohol is discouraged, whatever the type of beverage and even moderate doses. The latest available scientific data indicate that there exists a risk of cancer associated with alcohol, regardless of the amount consumed.

To reduce the risk of cancer, so it is recommended to limit consumption of alcohol as much as possible, both in terms of quantity consumed and frequency of consumption.

The harmful effect of alcohol depends on the amount of alcohol they bring. It does not depend on the type of beverage (wine, beer, appetizers or …), consumption mode (during or outside meals, regular consumption or peak demand).

3. How does alcohol work?

The alcohol is converted in the body to a carcinogen, acetaldehyde. Alcohol also activates the production of free radicals that are present in excess in our body, attack our cells, it lowers the activity of the immune system, promotes the penetration of tobacco carcinogens in the mucous membranes of the mouth or pharynx.

Regarding breast cancer, alcohol would promote its development by affecting hormonal mechanisms.

Quitting smoking is a decision beneficial to health: the mortality rate associated with smoking decreased gradually as the years pass without tobacco.

1. Stop smoking

Whatever age you decide to do, quitting is a good decision. The benefits are immediate.

Some disorders regress upon cessation: lung function, in particular, is improving very rapidly with a decrease in cough and breathlessness. Quality of life suffers: the disappearance of smoker’s breath, the smell of tobacco permeating hair, clothes, houses.

The risk of death from tobacco diminish gradually as the years pass without tobacco. It takes 10 to 15 years for, among former smokers, these rates are similar to those observed among non-smokers.

Because deciding to quit smoking is not easy and a goal of prevention and awareness to stop smoking, the CRA has published a comprehensive brochure that explains in 24 pages the dangers of smoking and gives many advice and contacts for smoking cessation.

To date, no convincing scientific evidence supports the conclusion that mobile phone users have an increased risk of cancer. However, some data from the preliminary results of the Interphone study suggest caution.

1. Mobile phones and health risk

If there is still no data showing formally that the use of mobile phones present a health risk, this hypothesis can not be excluded.

Beyond the emission standards imposed on all manufacturers of mobile phones (which should display the level on the records of their equipment), health authorities recommend that all mobile users to follow certain rules of precaution:

• Use your cell phone wisely. Avoid unnecessary conversation or too long.
• Be vigilant in areas of poor reception. In these areas, the device increases its transmission power and thus the level of wave exposure of the user. Between its minimum and its maximum level, the transmission power of a phone can be multiplied by 1000.
• Do not call moving: each time the phone must seek a new relay antenna on your route, it raises its transmit power to maximum.
• Advise children moderate use of mobile phones.
• Keep your mobile phone from his body, even when in standby. Use a hands-free kit.

How to prevent cancer ? By changing some of our behaviors, we could prevent the development of many cancers.

1. Cancer Prevention

Cancer prevention is an everyday, stopping smoking, avoiding regular consumption of alcoholic beverages, protecting themselves from the sun, taking a balanced and varied diet, practicing regular physical activity and using his cell phone wisely .

Finally, screening for cancers most common approach is easy and widespread that, when performed regularly and in time, saves lives. It is, as such, the best prevention.

2. Prevent cancer tips

1). Stop smoking

2). Limit alcohol consumption as much as possible

3). Sun protection

4). Adopt a balanced and varied diet

5). Playing sports

6). Protect themselves from infection

7). Use your cell phone wisely

8). Screening, the best prevention