Myth: An individual will probably get breast cancer if her mother or grandmother had it.

If an individual's mother or grandmother has had breast cancer does not necessarily mean that they will end up with it even though they are in a higher risk group. Most women who end up getting breast cancer do not have a family history of it. It is recommended that you have a mammogram done if your mother, sister, grandmother or daughter had or has breast cancer.

Myth: Breast cancer is caused by the birth control pill.

This is not true. Contraceptive pills have small quantities of the hormones progesterone and estrogen which is often linked with increased risk of breast cancer. Despite the presence of these two hormones and the prolonged use for a period of 10 years and more it does not cause breast cancer. Birth control pills have some benefits too. They are, they decrease the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancer, they relieve pelvic inflammatory disease, menstrual disorders and they improve the bone mineral density.

Myth: Only women get breast cancer - Men do not get the disease.

This is not true. Though the percentage is smaller men do get breast cancer, therefore, it is important for men too to exam themselves monthly and report any changes noticed to their doctor immediately. In 2004, it was estimated that around 1450 men with breast cancer and that 470 will eventually die from it.

Myth: Lawn chemicals, pesticides and dry cleaning services cause breast cancer.

A few small studies have shown this as a possibility but larger studies on this subject have indicated otherwise.

Myth: You are likely to get breast cancer if you have a risk factor.

This is not so. Even if you have a breast cancer gene abnormality, which is one of the stronger risk factors, it does not mean you will end up with cancer. 40% to 80% of women with an inherited genetic abnormality, that is, BRCA1 or BRCA2 may sometime in their life develop breast cancer. 20% to 60% will not develop it. The presence of all other risk factors poses very little threat.

Myth: If you have a lump in your breast you will get breast cancer.

This is not so as it is found that eight out of ten lumps are not malignant or cancerous. If you discover any abnormalities or even a persistent lump in your breast it is best you consult your physician at once as early detection would result in better treatment and recovery.

Myth: Breast cancer will end up in death.

This is not so. 80% of the breast cancer diagnosed women show no spread of the cancer cells beyond the breast or to nearby lymph nodes. Also 80% of these women continue to live for a further five years and some even longer.

Myth: Younger women run a higher risk of breast cancer than older women.

As a woman gets older the risk of her getting breast cancer is also higher as age is one of the strongest risk factors for breast cancer. It is therefore important for a woman starting from the age of about forty to self examine her breasts monthly for any lumps or irregularities; get regular mammograms and a clinical breast examination done yearly in order to detect an early development of cancer. Women in the age group 20 - 40 should also carry out monthly self breast examination and clinical breast examinations every three years or so.

Breast cancer is very hard to detect in its early stages. Breast self-exams and regular clinical breast exams are still our best weapons against this type of disease. We can gain a better understanding of breast cancer if we just take the time to study its causes and find out what are the factors that increase our chances of getting it. Read on for more useful information about breast cancer, which affects the lives of thousands of women each year.

. Gender - you are more at risk if you are a woman - especially if you've already had cancer in one breast. Women have a 1 in 8 lifetime risk of getting breast cancer. Although cases of breast cancer in men have steadily increased over the years, they only make up 1% of all breast cancer cases.

. Family history - if you're mother, sister, or another female member of your family has had breast cancer, this also increases your risk. Research has shown that hereditary cases of breast cancer are due to mutations of genes identified as BRCA1 and BRCA2. Further studies however, are still underway regarding these developments. Have yourself evaluated if one or some female members of your family have a history with breast cancer.

. Age - women are more vulnerable to breast cancer as they get older. 77% of women with breast cancer are over the age of 50, women below 30 only make up 0.3%. (American Cancer Society). It is advised that women as young as 20 years old should have a clinical breast exam every three years and should do so once every year after hitting age 40.

. Other risk factors for women - several other factors have to do with female hormones. According to studies, long-term hormone replacement therapy can increase your risk. It is also advised that women should have children before age 30 (starting to breastfeed at a younger age reportedly helps reduce your chances of getting breast cancer). Excessive alcohol intake and being overweight are also linked to an increased risk. Women who have experienced menstruation early (before age 12) and those who experience menopause later than the expected age also have the higher probability of being diagnosed with breast cancer. Tamoxifen is a drug prescribed for women who are already at high risk. This reduces the risk of cancer by 50% if taken for five years. Some side effects may be experienced (hot flashes and vaginal discharge), although they are not serious. In rare cases however, life - threatening side effects (stroke, blood clots, uterine cancer) may occur. For this reason, Tamoxifen is not widely used.

There are several risk factors to consider when it comes to breast cancer. And even if you think you have very few of the characteristics that could put you at risk, don't take things for granted. You should still give careful attention to your health. Have yourself examined by your physician regularly, adopt a healthy lifestyle and be sensitive to the changes in your body. Taking preventive measures is still your best defense against serious illnesses.

Colon cancer often exhibits the same symptoms as other colon conditions. Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, diverticulosis, and peptic ulcer disease show the same symptoms of colon cancer: red or dark blood in stools, changes in bowel habits, narrow stools, diarrhea or constipation, unexplainable weight loss, abdominal pain, cramps, bloating, and anemia. In order to observe your symptoms better, it is also important to read up on other colon diseases.

The disease can be present for many years before symptoms of colon cancer even show. This is why the best thing to do to watch out for colon cancer is to undergo regular screenings, preferably those that entail fecal blood testing and colonoscopy.

Symptoms of colon cancer vary according to where the tumor is located. Because the right colon is spacious, tumors in the right colon can grow to large sizes before they even cause symptoms of colon cancer. As tumors have a tendency to bleed, cancers on the right colon cause iron deficiency anemia because of the slow, unnoticed loss of blood over a long period of time. It is all the more unnoticeable because the stool travels through the colon longer, so whatever blood is in the stool dries up and even becomes invisible. Iron deficiency anemia, in turn, results in fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath for patients.

On the other hand, the left colon is narrower than the right colon. Cancers of the left colon are more likely to cause partial or complete bowel obstruction. This type of cancer causes the following symptoms of colon cancer: diarrhea, constipation, narrow stools, abdominal pains, cramps, and bloating. If there is bright red blood in the stool, this can also mean that there is a cancerous growth near the end of the left colon or the rectum. Go and see your doctor if you develop any of the following symptoms of colon cancer mentioned above. However, don’t panic just yet. As mentioned, some of the symptoms can be indicative of another colon disease altogether. For example, while blood in your stool may be one of the symptoms of colon cancer, it may also come from hemorrhoids or minor tears in your anus. If you are constipated as a result of not drinking enough water and not taking in sufficient fiber, tough stools may scratch your rectal wall.

Additionally, certain foods, such as beets and red licorice, can cause your stools to turn red, while iron supplements and some anti-diarrhea medications often make stools black. However, it is still a good idea to visit your doctor at any sign of blood or other changes in your stools and bowel movement. After all, early detection based on symptoms of colon cancer usually result in complete cures.

Below is a complete list of the top symptoms of colon cancer. It will do no harm to visit your doctor as soon as you feel two or more of the following:

* Major change in your toilet habits, whether you move your bowels more or less
* Blood in your fecal matter, bright red or dried
* Stools that are thinner than usual
* Unexplainable dramatic weight loss
* Stomach pains, cramping or bloating
* Unexplainable fatigue
* Always feeling like you need to move your bowels
* Constant nausea and vomiting
* Iron deficiency anemia
* Abdominal pain, which is a rare symptom of colon cancer, and may exhibit itself as mere tenderness in the abdomen.

Cancer is the growth of abnormal cells. These changes cells grow and they can form into small tumors. The tumors can place pressure on nerves or blood vessels or they can interfere with the function of organs - such as obstructing the intestines. Some cancers grow slowly and it can take years for them to become life threatening - however others can grow very rapidly. Cancers are named according to the type of tissue in which they occur - carcinomas, begin in the tissues of organs (these are the most common gastrointestinal cancers); lymphomas develop in the immune system, particularly in the lymph nodes; sarcomas start on the connective tissue such as muscle or bone.

Cancers can be throughout the digestive tract but the most common sites are the colon and rectum. Symptoms of cancers in the digestive tract include:

• blood in the stool

• difficulty in swallowing

• abdominal pain

• unexplained weight loss

• changes in bowel habits - not related to changes in diet.

You should have any of these symptoms checked by a health professional. If cancers are detected and treated early enough the prognosis is good.

Colorectal cancers begin with changes to the intestinal lining and the development of polyps. While not all polyps become cancerous nearly all colon cancers start as polyps.

Some of the factors that increase the risk of colorectal cancer

• A diet that is high in saturated fats, particularly red meat such as beef, pork and lamb and a diet that is low in fruit and vegetables.

• A diet and lifestyle that increases the level of toxins in the bowel. Toxins cause problems for the body - they irritate tissues, cause cells to breakdown and mutagenic changes to occur.

• Inflammatory bowel disease - ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel disease, Crohn’s disease all increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer.

• Smoking - colorectal cancer rates are higher among smokers than non-smokers.

• Polyps - nearly all colorectal cancers start as polyps.

• Hereditary - if other members of your family have colorectal cancer then you are at increased risk.

Your hereditary predisposition is a factor over which you have little control but there is a lot that you can do to reduce the risks associated with colorectal cancer - as well as other cancers. Having a healthy lifestyle and reducing the toxins that you are exposed to and in particular those that you ingest will greatly assist.

One of the most important things that you can do is to have a clean colon. So then what is colon cleansing? Proper and safe colon cleansing is the process of enabling the body to remove the stored and harmful substances by re-establishing the normal balance and function of the colon and the rest of the digestive process. Only through this thorough process is the body able to begin healing and repair and only then can there be a restoration of health and vitality.

The colon performs many vital functions but one of its most important is the effective removal of toxins from the body. There are many factors that are able to interfere with this elimination process. If the process is slowed or the bacterial balance of the colon is destroyed then toxins that are ingested and are a by-product of normal digestion will be absorbed into the bloodstream. The body will attempt to eliminate then through other routes however these can become overwhelmed. When this occurs the body needs to store the toxins. These stored toxins cause damage to tissue and are the basis of many diseases. They need to be eliminated from the body. Effective colon cleansing provides a safe means for achieving the cleansing of the whole body. When the toxins are effectively removed form the colon then the risks associated with the development of colorectal and many other cancers in the body are reduced.

Discover how to properly cleanse internally to gain and maintain your health and reduce your risk of colorectal cancer with safe colon cleansing (at safecoloncleansing.com). Then get on with really enjoying life.

Cancer is the growth of abnormal cells. These changes cells grow and they can form into small tumors. The tumors can place pressure on nerves or blood vessels or they can interfere with the function of organs - such as obstructing the intestines. Some cancers grow slowly and it can take years for them to become life threatening - however others can grow very rapidly. Cancers are named according to the type of tissue in which they occur - carcinomas, begin in the tissues of organs (these are the most common gastrointestinal cancers); lymphomas develop in the immune system, particularly in the lymph nodes; sarcomas start on the connective tissue such as muscle or bone.

Cancers can be throughout the digestive tract but the most common sites are the colon and rectum. Symptoms of cancers in the digestive tract include:

• blood in the stool

• difficulty in swallowing

• abdominal pain

• unexplained weight loss

• changes in bowel habits - not related to changes in diet.

You should have any of these symptoms checked by a health professional. If cancers are detected and treated early enough the prognosis is good.

Colorectal cancers begin with changes to the intestinal lining and the development of polyps. While not all polyps become cancerous nearly all colon cancers start as polyps.

Some of the factors that increase the risk of colorectal cancer

• A diet that is high in saturated fats, particularly red meat such as beef, pork and lamb and a diet that is low in fruit and vegetables.

• A diet and lifestyle that increases the level of toxins in the bowel. Toxins cause problems for the body - they irritate tissues, cause cells to breakdown and mutagenic changes to occur.

• Inflammatory bowel disease - ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel disease, Crohn’s disease all increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer.

• Smoking - colorectal cancer rates are higher among smokers than non-smokers.

• Polyps - nearly all colorectal cancers start as polyps.

• Hereditary - if other members of your family have colorectal cancer then you are at increased risk.

Your hereditary predisposition is a factor over which you have little control but there is a lot that you can do to reduce the risks associated with colorectal cancer - as well as other cancers. Having a healthy lifestyle and reducing the toxins that you are exposed to and in particular those that you ingest will greatly assist.

One of the most important things that you can do is to have a clean colon. So then what is colon cleansing? Proper and safe colon cleansing is the process of enabling the body to remove the stored and harmful substances by re-establishing the normal balance and function of the colon and the rest of the digestive process. Only through this thorough process is the body able to begin healing and repair and only then can there be a restoration of health and vitality.

The colon performs many vital functions but one of its most important is the effective removal of toxins from the body. There are many factors that are able to interfere with this elimination process. If the process is slowed or the bacterial balance of the colon is destroyed then toxins that are ingested and are a by-product of normal digestion will be absorbed into the bloodstream. The body will attempt to eliminate then through other routes however these can become overwhelmed. When this occurs the body needs to store the toxins. These stored toxins cause damage to tissue and are the basis of many diseases. They need to be eliminated from the body. Effective colon cleansing provides a safe means for achieving the cleansing of the whole body. When the toxins are effectively removed form the colon then the risks associated with the development of colorectal and many other cancers in the body are reduced.

Discover how to properly cleanse internally to gain and maintain your health and reduce your risk of colorectal cancer with safe colon cleansing (at safecoloncleansing.com). Then get on with really enjoying life.

Cancer is the growth of abnormal cells. These changes cells grow and they can form into small tumors. The tumors can place pressure on nerves or blood vessels or they can interfere with the function of organs - such as obstructing the intestines. Some cancers grow slowly and it can take years for them to become life threatening - however others can grow very rapidly. Cancers are named according to the type of tissue in which they occur - carcinomas, begin in the tissues of organs (these are the most common gastrointestinal cancers); lymphomas develop in the immune system, particularly in the lymph nodes; sarcomas start on the connective tissue such as muscle or bone.

Cancers can be throughout the digestive tract but the most common sites are the colon and rectum. Symptoms of cancers in the digestive tract include:

• blood in the stool

• difficulty in swallowing

• abdominal pain

• unexplained weight loss

• changes in bowel habits - not related to changes in diet.

You should have any of these symptoms checked by a health professional. If cancers are detected and treated early enough the prognosis is good.

Colorectal cancers begin with changes to the intestinal lining and the development of polyps. While not all polyps become cancerous nearly all colon cancers start as polyps.

Some of the factors that increase the risk of colorectal cancer

• A diet that is high in saturated fats, particularly red meat such as beef, pork and lamb and a diet that is low in fruit and vegetables.

• A diet and lifestyle that increases the level of toxins in the bowel. Toxins cause problems for the body - they irritate tissues, cause cells to breakdown and mutagenic changes to occur.

• Inflammatory bowel disease - ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel disease, Crohn’s disease all increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer.

• Smoking - colorectal cancer rates are higher among smokers than non-smokers.

• Polyps - nearly all colorectal cancers start as polyps.

• Hereditary - if other members of your family have colorectal cancer then you are at increased risk.

Your hereditary predisposition is a factor over which you have little control but there is a lot that you can do to reduce the risks associated with colorectal cancer - as well as other cancers. Having a healthy lifestyle and reducing the toxins that you are exposed to and in particular those that you ingest will greatly assist.

One of the most important things that you can do is to have a clean colon. So then what is colon cleansing? Proper and safe colon cleansing is the process of enabling the body to remove the stored and harmful substances by re-establishing the normal balance and function of the colon and the rest of the digestive process. Only through this thorough process is the body able to begin healing and repair and only then can there be a restoration of health and vitality.

The colon performs many vital functions but one of its most important is the effective removal of toxins from the body. There are many factors that are able to interfere with this elimination process. If the process is slowed or the bacterial balance of the colon is destroyed then toxins that are ingested and are a by-product of normal digestion will be absorbed into the bloodstream. The body will attempt to eliminate then through other routes however these can become overwhelmed. When this occurs the body needs to store the toxins. These stored toxins cause damage to tissue and are the basis of many diseases. They need to be eliminated from the body. Effective colon cleansing provides a safe means for achieving the cleansing of the whole body. When the toxins are effectively removed form the colon then the risks associated with the development of colorectal and many other cancers in the body are reduced.

Discover how to properly cleanse internally to gain and maintain your health and reduce your risk of colorectal cancer with safe colon cleansing (at safecoloncleansing.com). Then get on with really enjoying life.

Myth: An individual will probably get breast cancer if her mother or grandmother had it.

If an individual's mother or grandmother has had breast cancer does not necessarily mean that they will end up with it even though they are in a higher risk group. Most women who end up getting breast cancer do not have a family history of it. It is recommended that you have a mammogram done if your mother, sister, grandmother or daughter had or has breast cancer.

Myth: Breast cancer is caused by the birth control pill.

This is not true. Contraceptive pills have small quantities of the hormones progesterone and estrogen which is often linked with increased risk of breast cancer. Despite the presence of these two hormones and the prolonged use for a period of 10 years and more it does not cause breast cancer. Birth control pills have some benefits too. They are, they decrease the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancer, they relieve pelvic inflammatory disease, menstrual disorders and they improve the bone mineral density.

Myth: Only women get breast cancer - Men do not get the disease.

This is not true. Though the percentage is smaller men do get breast cancer, therefore, it is important for men too to exam themselves monthly and report any changes noticed to their doctor immediately. In 2004, it was estimated that around 1450 men with breast cancer and that 470 will eventually die from it.

Myth: Lawn chemicals, pesticides and dry cleaning services cause breast cancer.

A few small studies have shown this as a possibility but larger studies on this subject have indicated otherwise.

Myth: You are likely to get breast cancer if you have a risk factor.

This is not so. Even if you have a breast cancer gene abnormality, which is one of the stronger risk factors, it does not mean you will end up with cancer. 40% to 80% of women with an inherited genetic abnormality, that is, BRCA1 or BRCA2 may sometime in their life develop breast cancer. 20% to 60% will not develop it. The presence of all other risk factors poses very little threat.

Myth: If you have a lump in your breast you will get breast cancer.

This is not so as it is found that eight out of ten lumps are not malignant or cancerous. If you discover any abnormalities or even a persistent lump in your breast it is best you consult your physician at once as early detection would result in better treatment and recovery.

Myth: Breast cancer will end up in death.

This is not so. 80% of the breast cancer diagnosed women show no spread of the cancer cells beyond the breast or to nearby lymph nodes. Also 80% of these women continue to live for a further five years and some even longer.

Myth: Younger women run a higher risk of breast cancer than older women.

As a woman gets older the risk of her getting breast cancer is also higher as age is one of the strongest risk factors for breast cancer. It is therefore important for a woman starting from the age of about forty to self examine her breasts monthly for any lumps or irregularities; get regular mammograms and a clinical breast examination done yearly in order to detect an early development of cancer. Women in the age group 20 - 40 should also carry out monthly self breast examination and clinical breast examinations every three years or so

Breast cancer is very hard to detect in its early stages. Breast self-exams and regular clinical breast exams are still our best weapons against this type of disease. We can gain a better understanding of breast cancer if we just take the time to study its causes and find out what are the factors that increase our chances of getting it. Read on for more useful information about breast cancer, which affects the lives of thousands of women each year.

. Gender - you are more at risk if you are a woman - especially if you've already had cancer in one breast. Women have a 1 in 8 lifetime risk of getting breast cancer. Although cases of breast cancer in men have steadily increased over the years, they only make up 1% of all breast cancer cases.

. Family history - if you're mother, sister, or another female member of your family has had breast cancer, this also increases your risk. Research has shown that hereditary cases of breast cancer are due to mutations of genes identified as BRCA1 and BRCA2. Further studies however, are still underway regarding these developments. Have yourself evaluated if one or some female members of your family have a history with breast cancer.

. Age - women are more vulnerable to breast cancer as they get older. 77% of women with breast cancer are over the age of 50, women below 30 only make up 0.3%. (American Cancer Society). It is advised that women as young as 20 years old should have a clinical breast exam every three years and should do so once every year after hitting age 40.

. Other risk factors for women - several other factors have to do with female hormones. According to studies, long-term hormone replacement therapy can increase your risk. It is also advised that women should have children before age 30 (starting to breastfeed at a younger age reportedly helps reduce your chances of getting breast cancer). Excessive alcohol intake and being overweight are also linked to an increased risk. Women who have experienced menstruation early (before age 12) and those who experience menopause later than the expected age also have the higher probability of being diagnosed with breast cancer. Tamoxifen is a drug prescribed for women who are already at high risk. This reduces the risk of cancer by 50% if taken for five years. Some side effects may be experienced (hot flashes and vaginal discharge), although they are not serious. In rare cases however, life - threatening side effects (stroke, blood clots, uterine cancer) may occur. For this reason, Tamoxifen is not widely used.

There are several risk factors to consider when it comes to breast cancer. And even if you think you have very few of the characteristics that could put you at risk, don't take things for granted. You should still give careful attention to your health. Have yourself examined by your physician regularly, adopt a healthy lifestyle and be sensitive to the changes in your body. Taking preventive measures is still your best defense against serious illnesses.

Breast cancer is one of the most common life-threatening diseases among women. The risk of acquiring breast cancer increases with age. It is hard to detect the early symptoms of breast cancer, which is why it is important for women to have regular mammogram screenings as well as learn how to properly perform breast self-exams. Here are some other facts you need to know about breast cancer.

. Breast Cancer In Men - although more common among women, men can get breast cancer too. Cases among males tend to be even more fatal because the symptoms are usually ignored. Breast cancer in men makes up only 1% of all breast cancer cases right now, but this risk is a growing one. If you know of a male family member or friend who suspects that he has breast cancer, advise them to check with their doctor as soon as possible.

. Do injuries to the breast cause cancer? Injuries may cause blood to build up under the affected skin area, which might end up feeling like a lump. But these usually heal over time and are not known to cause breast cancer.

. Can I still have mammograms after having breast implants? - Yes. There is nothing wrong with having mammograms even if you have breast implants. In fact, it is recommended that you still continue with your regular check - ups. You should however, notify your doctor or your medical technician first that you have breast implants. This will allow them to use special techniques suited to your condition.

. Is pain in the breast always a sure sign that I might have breast cancer? - No. Several other things may cause pain in the breast. The pain might be related to your monthly period, or birth control pills if you've been taking any. Hormone replacement therapy and even weight gain could cause your breasts to feel an aching sensation. Or perhaps it could be something as simple as wearing the wrong bra size. Take note on how long or how frequently you experience the pain. Try to find out what causes the pain or what makes it go away. If you still feel that something is not right, check with your doctor.

. What about lumps? - Not all lumps are cancerous. Most of these growths are benign and can be taken out with surgery. But it is very important for you to immediately see your physician if you discover any odd growths on your breasts.

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death among women and some of the most important risk factors of breast cancer (such as having a family history of the disease) are out of your control. There is something you can do about it though -- and that is to keep yourself educated and to be sensitive to the changes in your body as you get older. Breast cancer is something that you can fight. Keep yourself informed on breast cancer prevention and follow the guidelines. These are very simple measures that just might save your life.

Breast cancer is one of the most common life-threatening diseases among women. The risk of acquiring breast cancer increases with age. It is hard to detect the early symptoms of breast cancer, which is why it is important for women to have regular mammogram screenings as well as learn how to properly perform breast self-exams. Here are some other facts you need to know about breast cancer.

. Breast Cancer In Men - although more common among women, men can get breast cancer too. Cases among males tend to be even more fatal because the symptoms are usually ignored. Breast cancer in men makes up only 1% of all breast cancer cases right now, but this risk is a growing one. If you know of a male family member or friend who suspects that he has breast cancer, advise them to check with their doctor as soon as possible.

. Do injuries to the breast cause cancer? Injuries may cause blood to build up under the affected skin area, which might end up feeling like a lump. But these usually heal over time and are not known to cause breast cancer.

. Can I still have mammograms after having breast implants? - Yes. There is nothing wrong with having mammograms even if you have breast implants. In fact, it is recommended that you still continue with your regular check - ups. You should however, notify your doctor or your medical technician first that you have breast implants. This will allow them to use special techniques suited to your condition.

. Is pain in the breast always a sure sign that I might have breast cancer? - No. Several other things may cause pain in the breast. The pain might be related to your monthly period, or birth control pills if you've been taking any. Hormone replacement therapy and even weight gain could cause your breasts to feel an aching sensation. Or perhaps it could be something as simple as wearing the wrong bra size. Take note on how long or how frequently you experience the pain. Try to find out what causes the pain or what makes it go away. If you still feel that something is not right, check with your doctor.

. What about lumps? - Not all lumps are cancerous. Most of these growths are benign and can be taken out with surgery. But it is very important for you to immediately see your physician if you discover any odd growths on your breasts.

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death among women and some of the most important risk factors of breast cancer (such as having a family history of the disease) are out of your control. There is something you can do about it though -- and that is to keep yourself educated and to be sensitive to the changes in your body as you get older. Breast cancer is something that you can fight. Keep yourself informed on breast cancer prevention and follow the guidelines. These are very simple measures that just might save your life.

We believed that things in life were predestined and we would accept the fate of our life when some tragic incidents happened upon us. But once we were able to reconcile with our love and pain, therefore we would able to create wisdom to face any predicament with less anxiety and depression. The solution is simple - 5-Steps to Breast cancer free!

Achieving the goals are simply are simply if you put your faith on this 5-Steps to Breast cancer free.

1. Start a healthy diet - start your meals by including cancer-fighting vegetables such as broccoli, salads, coleslaws & flax seeds. This doesn't imply that you should be a Vegan and you could still able to eat poultry or red meats moderately. With all due respect, avoid eating fast foods - especially fried & barbecued foods. Drink water frequently as it is able to cleanse toxins away from our body. Green tea is also a suitable and pleasant drink as well.

2. Start a healthy lifestyle - Workout in gym or in our house is a must in keeping your body fit and healthy. If you do not like strenuous exercises, you could practice Qigong or Taichi. Statistics have proven that these two type of Chinese meditations increase the probability of curing breast cancer. Having adequate sleep is necessary for health and survival. A fresh and sharp mind are needed to shape positive attitude towards good health.

3. Socialize more - having leisure with family and friends is essential of improving interpersonal relationship. You will feel better when you console problems with your closest family or friends. Control yourself from bad influences such as smoking and excessive alcohols.

4. Learn to communicate with your personal Dr. or psychiatrist - Educate yourself with medical terms and information in order to understand your ailment. Don't be shy to ask questions during consultation with your doctor. If you have severe depression and anxiety, seek treatment from psychiatrist. For your information, being healthy comprises healthy body, mind and soul.

5. Write & Blog - Start a habit of writing journals today. Writing is a best way to express your thoughts and emotions. By writing journals, you will review past incidents easier in order to set further achievable goals. There are a lot of blog hostings available via internet. Blogging is a good way to write journals as it is the best communication tool of sharing your updates to the whole world. It is also reflects the importance of life that we should live our life to the fullest.

Keep track with this basic steps that will lead you a better tomorrow! Bear you mind about this basic steps that will change your destiny - Knowing that you can change your perception will allow you a sense of empowerment, which increases your sense of responsibility for your perception.

This is my second "go round" with cancer and chemoptherapy, this time I'm much more educated in helping myself deal with side effects and would like to pass my remedies on to others.

Chemotherapy affects the stomach in a very devastating manner from the top to the bottom and though the prescribed Katrill was a life saver, it doesn't do it "all". Here are a few home remedies your oncologist will not tell you about...he's busy with the chemical aspect of treating the disease and not much into home remedies....I am!

1. Ginger
Ginger has long been known as an anti-nausea agent....I used fresh ginger, sliced it up thinly and put it in the freezer. I would put a few slices from the freezer into a cup of hot water and sip it as tea. I was surprised to read that they have a clinical trial going on using ginger in capsule form to treat nausea in chemo patients...worked for me!

2. Aloe
Aloe is another soothing agent to the stomach and intestinal tract and aloe water is tasteless and can be found in any supermarket in the produce department. It's inexpensive and helpful...I personally know a man that cured himself of bleeding ulcers with aloe juice, his doctor was amazed.

3. White food
Now for eating....I read many years ago that eating "white food" was a good idea as most white food doesn't have a strong smell or strong taste....I can't say that it worked for me but it could work for you. I'm a believer in organic food and foods made from scratch....we have enough chemicals racing around our body, we don't need more. You might want to check out the "Budwig Diet" on the internet.

4. Baldness
Your oncologist will tell you if you will lose your hair....for me it was somewhat of a blessing, not having to shave my legs, no blow drying etc. Cut your hair very short and once it starts falling out, shave it! The American Cancer Society will give you wigs free of cost....I prefer my baldness as I live in Florida and I also have a nicely shaped head. My eyebrow are very sparse and rather than pencil them in, I use eye shadow that I apply with a brush....it's more natural looking.

5. Attitude
Should you experience depression...fight it, talk to yourself, convince yourself that depression will not help you and imagine yourself healthy again....and smile as you talk to yourself...I don't know why, but it works.

6. Acupuncture
I went to an acupuncturist during my first experience with cancer....it helped so much with the horrendous headaches and the nausea. I don't know why I didn't do it through this battle.

7. Water
Drinking water is of the utmost importance and I'm sure your doctor will tell you that, but he doesn't tell you to drink mineralized water which will put your body in an alkaline state...for more info on this subject you can e-mail me at donnaparra595@bellsouth.net

8. Exercise
DO NOT let yourself become a couch potato....even if you must force yourself to walk around the block, it will be helpful. Somedays you must force yourself to put one foot in front of the other....but do it. Exercise helps your body, but it also helps your mind. You will feel good about yourself and proud.

9. Grooming
Keeping yourself well-groomed can be an effort on some days, but it's a must! I found on the days I HAD to go out and groom myself with make-up etc....something magical happened and I'd feel better....the effort was great but well worth it......I try and do that everyday now. I mean beyond taking a shower and brushing my teeth.

10. Power of Prayer
I think one of the most important remedies is prayer....it has such power and has gotten me through some really rough times. I don't know how it works, IT WORKS.

Oops! Forgot something.....dealing with constipation. I hate the thickness of prune juice and read on the internet to combat that... put dried prunes in a cup, pour boiling water over them... drink the liquid while warm and then eat the prunes. One woman told me her nurse told her to add a bit of butter to it... I chose to pass on that one but the woman found it quite effective. Flaxseed is also quite effective and you can add them to your cereal or mix them in a salad or just eat a teaspoonful... of course, taking laxatives work but they are not a good idea unless it's an emergency as your body will come dependent of them.

Good luck to all you "warriors" and I hope that I've helped you in your battle... it's a tough battle but it can be won... keep positive... it's the attitude that will get you through this... fight on and beat it!

We believed that things in life were predestined and we would accept the fate of our life when some tragic incidents happened upon us. But once we were able to reconcile with our love and pain, therefore we would able to create wisdom to face any predicament with less anxiety and depression. The solution is simple - 5-Steps to Breast cancer free!

Achieving the goals are simply are simply if you put your faith on this 5-Steps to Breast cancer free.

1. Start a healthy diet - start your meals by including cancer-fighting vegetables such as broccoli, salads, coleslaws & flax seeds. This doesn't imply that you should be a Vegan and you could still able to eat poultry or red meats moderately. With all due respect, avoid eating fast foods - especially fried & barbecued foods. Drink water frequently as it is able to cleanse toxins away from our body. Green tea is also a suitable and pleasant drink as well.

2. Start a healthy lifestyle - Workout in gym or in our house is a must in keeping your body fit and healthy. If you do not like strenuous exercises, you could practice Qigong or Taichi. Statistics have proven that these two type of Chinese meditations increase the probability of curing breast cancer. Having adequate sleep is necessary for health and survival. A fresh and sharp mind are needed to shape positive attitude towards good health.

3. Socialize more - having leisure with family and friends is essential of improving interpersonal relationship. You will feel better when you console problems with your closest family or friends. Control yourself from bad influences such as smoking and excessive alcohols.

4. Learn to communicate with your personal Dr. or psychiatrist - Educate yourself with medical terms and information in order to understand your ailment. Don't be shy to ask questions during consultation with your doctor. If you have severe depression and anxiety, seek treatment from psychiatrist. For your information, being healthy comprises healthy body, mind and soul.

5. Write & Blog - Start a habit of writing journals today. Writing is a best way to express your thoughts and emotions. By writing journals, you will review past incidents easier in order to set further achievable goals. There are a lot of blog hostings available via internet. Blogging is a good way to write journals as it is the best communication tool of sharing your updates to the whole world. It is also reflects the importance of life that we should live our life to the fullest.

Keep track with this basic steps that will lead you a better tomorrow! Bear you mind about this basic steps that will change your destiny - Knowing that you can change your perception will allow you a sense of empowerment, which increases your sense of responsibility for your perception.

Breast cancer is very hard to detect in its early stages. Breast self-exams and regular clinical breast exams are still our best weapons against this type of disease. We can gain a better understanding of breast cancer if we just take the time to study its causes and find out what are the factors that increase our chances of getting it. Read on for more useful information about breast cancer, which affects the lives of thousands of women each year.

. Gender - you are more at risk if you are a woman - especially if you've already had cancer in one breast. Women have a 1 in 8 lifetime risk of getting breast cancer. Although cases of breast cancer in men have steadily increased over the years, they only make up 1% of all breast cancer cases.

. Family history - if you're mother, sister, or another female member of your family has had breast cancer, this also increases your risk. Research has shown that hereditary cases of breast cancer are due to mutations of genes identified as BRCA1 and BRCA2. Further studies however, are still underway regarding these developments. Have yourself evaluated if one or some female members of your family have a history with breast cancer.

. Age - women are more vulnerable to breast cancer as they get older. 77% of women with breast cancer are over the age of 50, women below 30 only make up 0.3%. (American Cancer Society). It is advised that women as young as 20 years old should have a clinical breast exam every three years and should do so once every year after hitting age 40.

. Other risk factors for women - several other factors have to do with female hormones. According to studies, long-term hormone replacement therapy can increase your risk. It is also advised that women should have children before age 30 (starting to breastfeed at a younger age reportedly helps reduce your chances of getting breast cancer). Excessive alcohol intake and being overweight are also linked to an increased risk. Women who have experienced menstruation early (before age 12) and those who experience menopause later than the expected age also have the higher probability of being diagnosed with breast cancer. Tamoxifen is a drug prescribed for women who are already at high risk. This reduces the risk of cancer by 50% if taken for five years. Some side effects may be experienced (hot flashes and vaginal discharge), although they are not serious. In rare cases however, life - threatening side effects (stroke, blood clots, uterine cancer) may occur. For this reason, Tamoxifen is not widely used.

There are several risk factors to consider when it comes to breast cancer. And even if you think you have very few of the characteristics that could put you at risk, don't take things for granted. You should still give careful attention to your health. Have yourself examined by your physician regularly, adopt a healthy lifestyle and be sensitive to the changes in your body. Taking preventive measures is still your best defense against serious illnesses.