by Dr. A. Jerry Simon M.D
Breast cancer develops when cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor that can often be felt as a lump or seen on imaging. While primarily affecting women, a very small percentage of men also develop breast cancer. Risk increases with age, family history, certain genetic mutations, dense breasts, earlier menstruation/later menopause, hormone therapy, and lifestyle factors.
Be Breast Aware – Know the Signs: See your doctor if you notice a new lump or thickening in the breast, armpits or in the space above your collar bone; changes in breast size, shape, or contour; dimpling, puckering, or redness of the skin (like an orange peel); nipple changes: inversion, discharge (especially bloody), scaling, or rash; or persistent breast pain not tied to your menstrual cycle.
Early Detection is Key: Know what’s normal for you. Do monthly self- checks, visually and by touch, reporting changes promptly. Have your doctor examine your breasts regularly and schedule mammograms according to your age and risk factors. Generally, your first mammogram is recommended at age 40, however your doctor may order it earlier if you have certain risk factors. These include having a close family member with breast cancer, certain genetic factors detected in your blood associated with breast cancer, family or self-history of other cancers, diet high in saturated fats, refined sugars and other highly processed foods and lifestyle with little or no physical exercise.
Treatment is Not Easy – Side Effects are Many: Once diagnosed with image studies and biopsy (removing and laboratory examination) of the breast tissue, treatment is undertaken. Treatment is highly personalized (surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, naturalist).
While often life-saving, treatments can have significant physical consequences (fatigue, pain, swelling, hair loss, early menopause, fertility issues, cardiac effects) and emotional/mental health impacts (anxiety, depression, body image concerns.
Prevention & Risk Reduction – What Can You Do: While not all breast cancer is preventable, you can significantly reduce your risk through lifestyle. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly. Physical activity helps regulate hormones and weight. Prioritize a plant-forward diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit processed foods, red meat, saturated fats, refined sugars and alcohol. Maintain a healthy weight, especially post-menopause. Excess weight increases estrogen production linked to some cancers. If you have children, breast feeding them for about four to six months tend to have beneficial effects.
Mental & Emotional Support is Vital: A diagnosis can be overwhelming. So prioritize your mental health by way of professional help, family, group, community and spiritual support. But always remember a healthy lifestyle and early regular medical checks are the keys you have to prevent breast cancer.
Dr. Simon can be contacted at NSA Medical Centre at (268) 779 2176 or 462 0631.
