Breast Cancer risk factor check list

Image via Wikipedia Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, and one of the common cause of deaths in women. Commonly found among women between 40 to 60 years old. Breast cancer usually manifests itself through a breast mass, or an itchy, non healing sore on the nipple. If you're lactating watch out for a watery or yellowish discharge from your nipple. If you have any bloody nipple discharge, go to the doctor right away. High risk patients include those who have first degree relatives with breast caner. Obesity may also predispose one to breast cancer. People who are overweight have more estrogen, a fat based hormone, and are more at risk for developing cancer.

To know early if you have breast cancer try to do self breast examinations two weeks after your menstruation. 80 to 85 % of breast cancer are discovered by patients themselves. Visit your doctor regularly for a professional examination. Detection is the key to survival. Asses yourself by the following risk factors:

• Is the skin in your breast starting to resemble an orange rind?
• Do you have an inverted nipple that wasn't inverted before?
• Do you have dimple like indentation on your breast?
• Are you infertile?
• Are you overweight?
• Do you eat high fat diet?
• Do you have joint and back pains?
• Do you have an itchy sore around the nipple?
• Have you been using oral contraceptives for a long time?
• Have you had a breast mass even in benign?
• Do you have a first degree relative who has had breast cancer?

Don't hesitate to go to the doctor if you experience one. Have an annual breast examination by a doctor. If you're 40 or you belong to the high risk group, you must have an annual mammography.
Remember detection is the key to prevent breast cancer.