“Breast cancer.” Britannica Academic, Encyclopædia Britannica, 2020. Web.
This article presents comprehensive information about breast cancer and its specificities. The provided information is divided into sections, which describe in detail various aspects of this disease. Thus, the definition of the condition is followed by the causes and symptoms typical for it. The former includes environmental and genetic factors, such as mutations in genes called HER2, BRCA1, BRCA2, CHEK2, and p53, either acquired or inherited by the patients. In turn, the latter is the abnormal swelling in the breast or under the arm, unexplained pain, changes in breast texture and the skin. These data are complemented by the fact that early diagnosis increases the chances for survival. It implies self-examination, mammography, biopsy, X-rays, computerized axial tomography (CAT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The suggested treatment is a mastectomy, radiation, chemotherapy, Tamoxifen, and Letrozole, and the preventive measures are related to diets and other healthy habits.
Brody, J. E. (2017). How to lower breast cancer risk: Certain habits may keep breast cancer at bay and help to ward off other threats. New York Times.
This source considers the known methods of lowering breast cancer risks evoking concerns of the female population. According to it, they are connected to adopting healthy habits, which are complemented by regular screening as in the case with other diseases. One of the main factors, which should be eliminated for the specified purpose is smoking, which is common among women. It not only complicates one’s condition but also decreases the chances for a successful recovery. Another measure is personal control of weight since abdominal fat contributes to the probability of breast cancer. Besides, alcohol consumption should also be reduced as it affects the level of sex hormones, which, in turn, add to the risks. The efficiency of these measures can be increased by the diet with fiber-rich vegetables, fruit, and whole grains while minimizing the consumption of red meat and sugar-sweetened products alongside physical activity.
“Mastectomy.” Britannica Academic, Encyclopædia Britannica, 1998. Web.
The present article discusses the efficiency of mastectomy, surgical removal of the breast at the initial stages of the disease. The removal of all cancerous tissue with all localized cells helps stop cancer from spreading throughout one’s body. There are different types of this operation, and they depend on the location and the extent of the problem, which are determined with the use of various diagnostic techniques, such as X-ray or thermography. Thus, the standard radical mastectomy aims to remove the entire breast with supporting muscles and lymph nodes. The supraradical mastectomy is different from this procedure due to the additional removal of the internal mammary and supraclavicular nodes. The extended radical mastectomy is the standard procedure complemented by the removal of the internal mammary nodes, and the modified radical mastectomy implies the preservation of muscles while removing the breast. This source is invaluable for the consideration of different interventions, among which the modified procedures are optimal for a better outcome.
“Psychological benefits of immediate breast reconstruction.” USA Today, vol. 127, no. 2641, 1998, p. 10. Gale In Context: Biography, Web.
The article narrates about the psychological aspect of breast cancer and its timely treatment. According to this source, immediate reconstruction of the removed tissue seems beneficial for all women regardless of the complications from the disease. Meanwhile, it is not always provided for the ones with the advanced forms of the condition due to the problems with wound healing and the increased possibility of infections. However, the experiments showed that this intervention adds to the patients’ satisfaction while implying minimal risks. Moreover, it gave them hope and a positive outlook while presenting no obstacles for further regular examinations.