Term
| Risk factors for breast cancer |
|
Definition
Gender: Female account for 99% of breast cancer
Age: Risk increases with age
Race/Ethnicity: White women have highest incidence
Genetic: 10% of breast cancer cases are associated with a genetic mutation of BRCA-1, BRCA-2 gene
Radiation therapy: Women who had radiation therapy to the chest (including the breasts) before age 30 have an increased risk of developing breast cancer
Family History:
Personal Medical History: those with a history have an increased risk of subsequent episodes
Reproductive History: long menstrual history, full term pregnancy after age 30 increases risk
Breast density: greater breast density, increases risk
Estrogen replacement: hormone replacement therapy for more than 5 years after menopause increases risk
Physical Inactivity
Alcohol intake
Obesity |
|
|
Term
| Is there a benefit to monthly breast exams? |
|
Definition
| Research has not shown a clear benefit of physical breast exams done by either a health professional or by one’s self for breast cancer screening. There is very little evidence that these tests help find breast cancer early when women also get screening mammograms. Because of this, a regular clinical breast exam and breast self-exam are NOT recommended. Still, all women should be familiar with how their breasts normally look and feel and report any changes to a health care provider right away. |
|
|
Term
| What is included in breast self-awareness? |
|
Definition
| Breast self-awareness is about getting to know the normal look and feel of your breasts, and speaking up if you notice any changes. It also means knowing your family history (and whether it increases your risk), the signs and symptoms of cancer, and how the lifestyle decisions you make in your daily life play a role in increasing or decreasing your risk. |
|
|
Term
| Where are most breast lesions found (quadrant of breast)? |
|
Definition
| The upper outer quadrant where the largest amount of glandular tissue lies and extends into the axilla. |
|
|
