About Breast Cancer

Breast cancer usually begins in the lymph nodes of the breast. Breast cancer is one of the cancers known to spread throughout the body. The bones of the body, the liver, the lungs and the brain are some of the more common organs where the cancer spreads. When the cancer spreads, it does not form a new cancer – it’s a new infection of the breast cancer, just in a different location of the body.

Breast cancer most commonly occurs in women who are over the age of 40. Younger women and even men can be afflicted with breast cancer, but those 40 and over need to take particular care. It’s recommended by doctors for women 40 and up to get a mammogram once per year. Early detection is the key to surviving breast cancer; if the cancer is allowed enough time to metastasize, it can be a much more serious problem to contain.

It’s also advised to regularly get a breast exam. This is a quick 10 minute procedure which can be done by your doctor. In addition, you can perform self-exams in the home by following a few simple steps. Common symptoms that may accompany breast cancer include a change in appearance of the breast or nipple. The nipple may be inverted, turning inwards towards the breast, or the breast may suddenly change shape or size. Nipple discharge is also a symptom of breast cancer. If you think these symptoms apply to you, seek a health care professional’s opinion immediately.

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1. Breast Cancer Myths