Breast Care FAQ
How often should I perform a self breast exam?
It is recommended that every woman over 20 years of age perform a self breast exam once a month. It is best to do the examination three to five days after the menstrual period ends because of hormonal changes during the cycle. If you have consistent menstrual periods, it is helpful to choose a day that is memorable so you continue to perform the exams regularly. Performing the exams every month will help you detect any changes in your body. It is important to note that 90% of breast masses are detected during self breast exams. 
What puts me at risk for breast cancer?
Age and family history puts you at the greatest risk for breast cancer. Each year, the risk of developing breast cancer increases. Over 77% of breast cancer diagnosis occurs in women over the age of 50. Having a direct relative with breast cancer (for instance, a mother or sister who has had breast cancer) increases your risk significantly. Genetics and breast lesion occurrence are other markers to consider. The genes BRCA1 and BRCA2 are cancer genes and can indicate an 80% chance of developing breast cancer.
Other factors that put you at slightly higher risk for breast cancer are:
Early Menstruation – Before age 12
Age at childbirth – Never having children or having children after age 30
Other family cancer – A family history of other cancers
Weight – Especially after menopause, being overweight, particularly in the waist and eating a high fat or highly caloric diet
Excessive Radiation – Cancer treatment of fluoroscopic x-ray exposure
Race – Caucasian women are at a slightly higher risk
Heritage – Eastern and Central European Jews are at slightly higher risk
Alcohol – Women who have 2-5 drinks per day increase their risk 50% compared to women that are non-drinkers.
Hormone Replacement Therapy – Long-term use of estrogen and progesterone
What are some common breast disease misconceptions?
Some of the biggest misconceptions related to developing breast cancer are:
- Having breast implants.
- Abortion.
- Miscarriage.
- Antiperspirants and deodorants.
- Under wire bras or tight garments.
- Multiple pregnancies or inseminated pregnancy.
- Coffee or caffeine intake.
- Nail polish or hair spray.
If my family member or friend is diagnosed with abnormal breast tissue, how can I help?
Breast cancer diagnosis is hard on everyone involved. The best thing that a friend or family member can do is to be a supportive listener and confidante. Talking about the disease and treatment options can be most extremely helpful to the patient. Figure out ways to make chores and responsibilities easier on the patient. This may be helping to cook dinner for the family, cleaning up around the house during treatment times, or just being available for moral support. Above all else, staying positive and maintaining hope with the patient is most important. There is life beyond breast cancer and engaging in activities that make the journey more comfortable and manageable is extremely important.
What are common stress signals in cancer patients?
Because of the uncertainty that goes along with breast cancer, stress and anxiety are common secondary effects of the disease. Patients may struggle with the unanswered questions about their future. Common signals that a breast cancer patient is experiencing these anxieties are insomnia, body aches and pain, constant fatigue, irritability, migraines, and changes in bowel movements.
What are common ways that breast cancer patients find peace and relaxation? What has worked?
There are a number of ways that patients find solace in the midst of treatment. Exercise, stretching and meditation can ease stress and release endorphins. Movement can help relax aching muscles and ease the mind. Scheduling activities that the patients looks forward to attending can help keep up their morale. Establishing connections among others going through similar problems can help. Many breast cancer patients go to social groups or online chat sites to talk about their disease. These programs can make patients feel like they are not alone in their fight against breast disease. Maintaining an overall sense of hope and a positive outlook on life is important for the emotional, physical and psychological well being of the patient.