There are a large number of women who suffer from cervical and breast cancer . Even though breast cancer is a disorder primarily associated with women, there have been instances where men have also been afflicted by this disorder . Breast cancer is the occurrence of malignant cells in the breast tissue. Clinical research has revealed that the following factors may increase the chances of developing breast cancer.
Being overweight or a lifestyle with little or no physical activity
Breast cancer has an established hereditary link and women who have a family history of breast cancer are more prone to the disorder than those who dont have instances of breast cancer among the women in their family
Caucasian women are more susceptible to breast cancer than their Asian, Latin and African counterparts
Women with a history of breast cancer in one breast are likely to develop cancer in the other breast as well.
Some studies have indicated that the aluminum in antiperspirants may also be a causative factor.
Ingestion of processed meat containing sodium nitrites and nitrates may also cause breast cancer due to DNA change
Diagnosis :
Regular examination of the breast is one way of diagnosing breast cancer, if a suspicious lump is discovered it is strongly advised that you consult your doctor. A large painful lump in the armpit may also point towards breast cancer. If you notice a lump in your breast r armpit seek medical attention at the earliest. The doctor will feel the size, shape and texture of the lump, based on this further test may be recommended these would usually include ultrasound tests; MRI scans which will give a pictorial depiction of the lump. If the doctor feels that the lump may be malignant a biopsy may be advised. Biopsy include the removal of the breast tissue and fluids for analysis. It is a small surgical procedure often done under a local anesthetic. A biopsy can be conducted in several ways.
The biopsy will help to prove malignancy after which a course of treatment can be administered. Currently the different forms of treatment for breast cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy and biological therapy. A single form of treatment will be rarely used, instead a combination of methods is usually deemed appropriate
Cervical Cancer:
Cervical cancer is a malignant cancer of the cervix which is the lower part of the uterus. Cervical cancer can be attributed to the infection of the human papilloma virus. Sexual contact with a carrier causes the infection. And even though the infection doesnt always lead cancer , the risk is increased in cases of women who smoke, have used birth control pills for prolonged periods, have an HIV infection or who have many children.
Since cervical cancer usually has no preliminary symptoms you may not discover till a later stage. In the later stages pelvic pain or vaginal bleeding may be experienced.
Tests for cervical cancer include the Pap smear which includes extracting the fluids or cells of the cervix for examination under the microscope. To prevent the risk of cervical cancer go for regular pelvic examinations and pap smear tests. Now, there is also a vaccine available to combat cervical cancer.