Harris, CEO of the Rural Health Group, shared his story during the second annual Breast Cancer Awareness Month observance held at The Centre on the campus of Halifax Community College Tuesday. The event had a health fair and several other activities. “It is our responsibility to our wives, mothers, sisters, aunts and friends to get the message out,” he said.

Harris said he lost his mother to “this awful disease.” “And it is not just women who have a responsibility,” he said. “We men have a responsibility to get the message out there. Breast cancer should not kill anymore. Please get the message out.”

The event was sponsored by the Avon Foundation Breast Care Fund, Carolina Community Network and Halifax Community College. Contributors included Enfield-Roanoke Rapids Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., Lake Gaston Area Chapter of LINKS Inc., Belk Department Store at Premiere Landing and the HCC Student Government Association.

Patricia J. Peele, health education coordinator for the Rural Health Group, said there was a two fold purpose for the event. “We are trying to create awareness for the early detection of breast cancer and to celebrate survivorship,” Peele said.

She noted it is a known fact with early detection, survival rate for breast cancer is 98 to 100 percent. “We hope to create awareness and get people involved,” Peele said.

In his welcome on behalf of HCC, Dr. Stanley Edwards, chair of the HCC board of trustees, said he has had friends and relatives who have suffered from breast cancer.

“I applaud the Rural Health Group for what they are doing across the county,” he said. “The information given is prolonging lives.”

Halifax County Manager Tony Brown presented a proclamation on behalf of the county commissioners. Since last year’s program, he said, he had a new experience. About two months ago, a male friend of his had undergone treatment for breast cancer. “I had never met a male who had breast cancer,” Brown said. “It affects men as well and it is just as terrifying.” He urged males to also get checked as well.

Dr. Carolyn Smart, mistress of ceremony for the event, noted breast cancer does not discriminate. “It’s male or female,” she said. “It’s young and old. It’s black and white. There is no one person that is breast cancer is more friends with than another.”

Everyone was told to stand and walk past a mirror set up by the stage. As the Michael Jackson’s song “Man in the Mirror” played those in attendance walked past the mirror. “As you look in the mirror, you are looking at the face of breast cancer in the room,” Smart said. “The change starts with the man in the mirror. You can no longer wait for someone else to tell you what to do.”

During the Bells of Remembrance Ceremony, three lay health advisors lit candles and rang bells. “It is our hope as a result of today’s effort the lives of many women and men are spared,” said Doris Davis.

Three candles were lit by Charlene Brown, Dorothy Cannon and Damion Jones. The first candle lit by Brown was to let those in attendance be reminded about the importance of early detection of breast cancer. Cannon’s candle was for the survivors of breast cancer. And the third candle lit by Jones was for the family members of those who had lost the fight.

Sharon D. Jefferson, of Littleton, won the card design contest. Her card, which on the outside reads “You’ve traveled the road to a successful healing.” The card was on the display for all to see at the event. On the inside, it says “You went the distance. I knew in my heart you could do it. You taught me the strategies of being a winner; I’m so thankful and proud to have you in my life.”

Her inspiration for the card came from her aunt, who is a breast cancer survivor. “I wanted to make a card to heal someone and let them know they have made it,” she said.

It only took her one night to design and come up with the words of the song.

Peele presented two area organizations with community health service awards. The first went to the Gregory B. Davis Foundation and the Halifax County Branch of the National Association of University Women.

N.C. House of Rep. Angela Bryant congratulated all of the groups involved in putting together with the event. “I am so proud of the work being done in our region,” she said.

She encouraged everyone to do what they could for breast cancer awareness at a personal level. Bryant said she would be starting with herself. She had put off having a mammograms three times because of her busy schedule.

“If others of you are busy or doing things for others,” she said. “We all need to make a commitment to make sure we get the screenings we need.”

After the program, a 300 balloon release for raising awareness was held, afterwards a survivor reception ensued.
http://www.rrdailyherald.com/articles/2009/10/21/news/doc4adf45a751246116717027.txt

Radiation therapy, which destroys cancerous cells, is probably the biggest single treatment method of cancer in the world today. Sufferers of breast cancer can actually be free of cancer after receiving radiation treatment. Radiation therapy can be given alone or as part of a sequence of treatments such as chemotherapy or operational surgery.

It is vitally important as a patient to understand radiation therapy, the uses it has, the side effects it can cause and what will happen after treatment.

All cells, either cancerous or healthy, continually split to make new cells. Cancerous cells go through this process significantly quicker than normal cells which allows the disease to spread.

Radiation therapy involves the accurate delivery of high energy particles or waves in large doses to the cancerous cells to stop them multiplying by causing irreversible damage to them. The radiation breaks a strand within the DNA molecule inside cancerous cells to prevent growth. This will have an effect on healthy surrounding cells but these seem to fully recover from the effects of radiation therapy. Chemotherapy is different in that the whole body is exposed to agents that fight cancers whereas radiation therapy can be performed on a more local area of the body.

As far as side effects go, breast cancer patients can experience several things either during or after treatment. These may include fatigue, difficulty or pain when swallowing, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, coughing, changes in the pigmentation of the skin, swelling or loss of hair in the treated area. Some patients suffer no side effects whatsoever.

After radiation therapy, a patient must undergo fairly extensive follow-up care. This will include regular visits to the Doctor to check the day-to-day progress of the patient as well as managing any problems that arise.

In some cases, medical care being administered before or during radiation therapy will need to continue such as dietary needs, exercise plans or medicine.

Some patients may continue to experience continued discomfort of the skin around the treated area. This must be looked after gently with no tight clothes or dressings worn around it, with the area to be lightly padded dry after washing instead of wiping. Patients should rest often while the body works to build up healthy supplies of skin tissue again.

For patients that continue to experience prolonged period of fatigue, rest should once again be on the agenda and this can last for several months after treatment. Patients that continue to feel pain will need to visit a Doctor who may refer them back to the hospital if it fails to subside.

There is also an emotional price to be paid after having breast cancer and radiation therapy. This can lead to patients suffering from depression, anger, grief, anxiety, stress and many other strong emotional feelings. If these feeling become overbearing, seeking the help of trained mental health care specialists is an absolute necessity.

Recovering from cancer can be a long, tiring, painful and emotionally exhausting experience. However, radiation therapy can frequently kill the cancerous cells on a long-term basis with patients living long, happy and pain-free lives for many years afterward.

To learn much more about the different types of radiation procedures, visit AllAboutRadiationTreatments.com where you'll find this and much more, including the effects of radiation therapy, and breast cancer medication.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carolyn_J._Higgins

Being diagnosed with breast cancer is the last thing any patient wants to hear. The impacts of breast cancer on someone's life can be devastating. Undoubtedly upon receiving this diagnosis a patient will be immediately swarmed with questions and decisions that may leave them with a sense of uncertainty and confusion. By researching your options in advance and understanding the implications of each type of procedure you can give yourself a much-needed sense of empowerment and security.

The first step to getting a grip on the decisions that any breast cancer patient will face is to understand the treatment options and their advantages. Each kind of procedure will have a set of pros and cons that will better suit different patients. By thoroughly researching these options you can give yourself the most available information to make informed decisions that will benefit you in the long-term.

Firstly, a mastectomy is the most traditional and harsh procedure available for breast cancer patients. The procedure does not involve radiation therapy but consists of the removal of the entire breast tissue. This procedure has the least chance of the cancer returning and tends to be the most thorough option available. It is however a painful and mildly disfiguring surgery.

While many women have opted against a complete mastectomy, they remain a popular choice because of how effective and thorough they are. Additionally, the recovery process is much easier thanks to modern fashion advances offering mastectomy bras in a variety of styles and materials.

The other common procedure choice is a lumpectomy. This procedure consists of the removal of the tissue around the cancerous tumor but spares much of the overall breast tissue. The main fault of the lumpectomy is that it requires radiation therapy after the surgery itself to ensure that all of the cancerous cells are killed.

This kind of a procedure is beast suited for those who have smaller or more isolated tumors in their breast. It is worth noting however that a lumpectomy has a higher chance of the cancer returning in the future than the complete mastectomy. Even with radiation therapy it is possible that the remaining breast tissue may need to be removed at a later date.

With a comprehensive and encompassing understanding of the options available to you, you'll find that you are better able to make these tough decisions with confidence. Understanding these procedures and how they can both help and hurt your lifestyle is important to your wellness and recovery.

Nobody asks to get breast cancer but when this unfortunate illness befalls someone they are forced to decide whether they will be lost in confusion or to rise above their condition. Empower yourself to recover and lead a healthy life with knowledge of breast cancer and its treatments. You owe it to yourself and your family to be strong as you sift through the decisions and trials that face any breast cancer patient and to seize the healthy recovery waiting for you on the other side. Medicare and Medicaid Medical Products are numerous and should a mastectomy be necessary, quality Bras After Mastectomy can be found from many sources.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Morgan_Le_Fay

According to the June 18th report from the online cancer journal, The Annals of Oncology, the international panel of experts that assembled for the 11th St. Gallen Health Conference in March, proposed a potentially radically different approach when it comes to deciding upon the best treatment options for early breast cancer.

While the panel still agrees that no case of breast cancer is exactly the same and each patient should received personalized care, it has put forward a new, more standardized approach when it comes to assessing disease risks and appropriate treatment strategies.

They go on to suggest that these vital clinical systems must address three distinct questions: "(i) what justifies the use of endocrine therapy, (ii) what justifies the use of anti-HER2 therapy, and (iii) what justifies the use of chemotherapy." This is a change from the traditional method of identifying a single-risk category and then a subsequent and separate therapy recommendation.

Furthermore, the panel gave a new algorithm for clinicians to use when they are attempting to decide what will be the most effective treatment approach for their patient. As one of the members, Professor Richard Gelber of Harvard University said, "We have identified 'thresholds for indication' of each type of systemic treatment modality (endocrine therapy, anti-HER2 therapy, chemotherapy) based on criteria specific to each modality. We expect the refined algorithm to change clinical practice because it clarifies the indications for each treatment modality available today."

The panel's report emphasizes the importance of identifying which type of breast cancer a patient has and which treatment, or combination of treatments, are most likely to be successful. They recommend the increased use of genetic profiling using microarrays as a means for improved identification, especially for the forms that have been more difficult to analyze. Additionally, the panel discussed the importance of conducting extensive clinical trials because they can "provide essential information on the safety and efficacy of treatments."

Yet, while their discussion highlights the importance of standardization from medical professionals, the panel knows who will make the final call. Professor Alan Coates of the University of Sydney expressed how the patients must be at the center of all treatment decisions saying, "We recognize the importance of quality of life, supportive care and patient preference in the treatment decision-making process."

More specific treatment recommendations and further details can be seen in the original Annals of Oncology doi: 10.1093/annonc/mdp322

Susan Hardwicke, Ph.D. is a cognitive psychologist who has pioneered the field of neuro-nutrition. S08-1956.he has recently published an ebook on titled The Chemo Brain Report, which is available through http://www.vabion.com, http://www.healthafterchemo.com, or calling the office at (804) 308-1956.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Susan_Hardwicke,_Ph.D.

Breast Cancer is found to be one of the leading causes of death among Hispanic women and various reports reveal that breast cancers are more aggressive in the Hispanic population. The study of the role of genes and its effect on the activity of drugs began when two distinct reactions were observed on administration of a probe drug within the Hispanic group. While some people were able to metabolize the probe drug, some people developed indications of not being able to metabolize the drug at all. This began the study of the prominent role that genes play in drug metabolism.

CYP2D6 is a group of liver enzymes which have been found to metabolize or break down 25% of all clinically available medications. The CYP2D6 gene located on Chromosome 22 is responsible for the production of this enzyme in our body. A wide spectrum of drugs employed in the treatment of cancer are metabolized by this enzyme. The most relevant medication for breast cancer is Tamoxifen and has been used for many years as an endocrine treatment for hormone-positive breast cancer with indications in the metastatic, adjuvant and preventive settings. The lower level of toxicity in Tamoxifen treatments when compared to chemotherapy helps patients maintain quality of life and delay the use of cytotoxic treatments (causing destruction of cells) for as long as possible.

Tamoxifen is metabolized by the enzyme CYP2D6 and it is converted into its active form called Endoxifen which then acts on the body. However the CYP2D6 gene exhibits variability across population and among various ethnic groups. This results in variations in the levels of CYP2D6 enzyme in the body which leads to the difference in a person's ability to react to the drug, Tamoxifen. Variability ranges from Poor Metabolizers who have zero enzyme levels to Ultra-rapid Metabolizers who have very high levels of the enzyme in the body.

Recent research shows that 5-10% of Hispanic women are Poor Metabolizers. They are characterized by slower metabolism of the drug, due to the absence of adequate quantities of the enzyme. This might result in the build-up of Tamoxifen as the body lacks an efficient mechanism to eliminate the drug. Overall the slower metabolism of Poor Metabolizers may have a cascade effect when multiple concomitant medications that are metabolized by the CYP2D6 enzyme are administered, increasing the potential for Adverse Drug Reactions. Poor Metabolizers may thus be recommended to switch to an alternate method of treatment as they lack the ability to convert Tamoxifen into its active form, Endoxifen. They have been shown to have about three-fold risk of relapse than normal metabolizers.

Ultra-rapid Metabolizers constitute another 5% of the Hispanic population. They are characterized by higher than normal conversion of Tamoxifen to its active form, Endoxifen which results in high therapeutic effect of the drug. Although this population can experience the same benefit from a lower than standard dose of the drug, they face the possibility of serious side effects.

Genetic testing has been recently recommended by the FDA resulting in a label change for Tamoxifen which plays an important role in preventing the recurrence of breast cancer. Accredited DNA testing laboratories like Genelex offer tests on receipt of a physician prescription and delivers secure customized reports on the effect of your genes on the drugs.

Visit http://www.tamoxitest.com for more information on Tamoxifen testing.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sruti_Mohandas

With very early detection, the breast cancer survival rate is excellent. The American Cancer Society reports a 5-year survival rate of 98% to 100% for Stage 1 breast cancer after treatment.

Stage 1 breast cancer is less than 2 centimeters in diameter and has not spread beyond the breast tissue itself.

Currently, 63% of breast cancer for U. S. white women is detected and diagnosed while it is still localized to the breast tissue as Stage 1 breast cancer. Only 53% of breast cancer in U. S. black women is diagnosed while the breast cancer is still localized.

The difference in early detection rates between white women and black women is usually attributed to economic disparity and the lack of health insurance. It also helps explain the fact that in the U. S., breast cancer incidence for black women is 11% lower than for white women, but the breast cancer death rate for black women is 35% higher (NCI, SEER, 2007). The death rate increases when breast cancer detection and diagnosis are postponed while the cancer spreads.

The U.S. National Cancer Institute predicts that approximately 178,480 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in 2007. The annual death rate from breast cancer is around 41,000 in the U.S. North American white women have the highest rate of breast cancer in the world.

Improving breast cancer survival rates by early detection requires regular observation, monthly self-examinations, and following medical recommendations for examinations and testing.

Monthly self-examinations should be done at the same time each month. Clinical examinations by a health care provider should start by the time a woman is 20 years old and continue at least every three years until age 40. After age 40, the clinical exams should be included in the annual health check-ups. Annual mammograms after age 40 will help detect breast cancer at the earliest stages.

Since 1 in every 8 women will face a diagnosis of breast cancer in their lives, improving the breast cancer survival rate should also include breast cancer prevention by reducing risk factors. Some breast cancer risk factors like genetics and family history can’t be changed, but they account for only a small percentage of breast cancer cases. Factors that have shown an increase in breast cancer include overweight, hormone therapy, and increased alcohol consumption. Factors that may help breast cancer prevention include breast feeding, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular exercise.

For more information on research showing increased breast cancer survival rate, see http://www.green-tea-health-news.com/breast-cancer-survival-rate.html

You can also learn about three healthy habits that have shown a 50% decrease in breast cancer recurrence at http://www.green-tea-health-news.com/breast-cancer-recurrence.html

Sharon Jones has over 40 years training and experience in science, mainstream health care, and alternative health care. Her website is http://www.green-tea-health-news.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sharon_A_Jones

If you are concerned about familial breast cancer, the first step is to talk things over with your GP or Genetic Counsellor.

You will be asked about your family history and ethnic background, as well as any blood relatives, on either side of your family, who have had breast or related cancers.

If a faulty breast cancer gene has already been identified in a family member, you may be referred directly to a specialist genetic service.

Once your GP or Genetic Counsellor has taken a full family history, your risk of developing breast cancer can be assessed.

Most women will be at no greater risk than any other woman.

If this is the case your counsellor should discuss this with you and provide you with some written information on being breast aware and lifestyle risks.

However, if you develop any breast changes or if your family history or circumstances alter, it is important to go back and see your GP.

An increased risk

A small number of women may be viewed as having a greater risk of developing breast cancer on the grounds of a strong family history.

If this applies to you, you will be classified as having one of the following:

• a moderate risk
• a high risk.

You will then be referred to either a family history clinic or a specialist in cancer genetics. The type of care you receive will be depending on your risk level.

Screening

Depending on your age, you may be offered a mammogram.

Women between the ages of 40 and 49 will normally be offered annual mammograms.

However, it is currently unclear how effective mammograms are in detecting breast cancer early in women at increased risk - clinical studies are currently researching this issue.

Because of this, women aged 30 to 39 will be offered mammograms only as part of a research study rather than as a matter of routine.

Women under the age of 30 are unlikely to be offered mammograms, as younger women's breast tissue is too dense to produce a clear mammogram picture.

Genetic counselling

If you are considered to be at high risk of developing breast cancer you will be offered specialist genetic counselling.

This will give you more information about your family history, how your lifestyle may affect you, what having a genetic test means, and the options available to you if you choose to go ahead with the test.

You may feel anxious about finding out about your risk of developing breast cancer, but remember that your counsellor is trained to deal with these issues.

Testing

The test (Screening of BRCA1 and BRCA2) is done by Eastern Biotech & Life Sciences, Dubai on a blood sample from a living relative who has already developed breast or ovarian cancer.

The results can take many months to complete, as it is technically very difficult to identify the faulty gene.

If it is found that you do carry the faulty gene, although you will not necessarily develop breast cancer, you do have a higher risk of doing so.

In Ashkenazi Jewish women, specialists already know that there are three specific gene faults in a large proportion of the families where breast and ovarian cancer is common.

This means that testing may be offered to relatives at high risk without needing to carry out the gene search.

Pankaj Sohaney is working as Manager in Eastern Biotech & life Sciences, UAE and involved in Genetic Testing for various disease.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pankaj_Sohaney