Breast Cancer
Breast cancer occurs when malignant cells form in breast tissues. The cancer cells begin in the milk ducts or the milk producing lobules of the breast. Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women and the second most common cause of death in women.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Lump in the Breast or Underarm
Nipple Discharge
Change in Breast Shape or Size
Dimpling or Redness on the Breast
More Information
Potential Causes of Breast Cancer
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- Family history of breast cancer
- Hormonal factors
- Genetic mutations (BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes)
- Lifestyle factors
Diagnosing Breast Cancer
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- Physical exam
- Mammogram
- Breast ultrasound
- Breast biopsy
- MRI scan (magnetic resonance imaging)
- Immunohistochemistry
- Genetic tests
Treatment Options for Breast Cancer
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- Surgery: Lumpectomy, mastectomy, breast reconstruction, lymph node removal and lymphedema.
- Chemotherapy: A combination of drugs is used to either destroy cancer cells or slow down the growth of cancer cells.
- Radiation therapy: High-energy rays are used to kill cancer cells.
- Hormone therapy: Hormone blockers block the effects of estrogen on breast tissue, and hormone inhibitors lower estrogen levels by reducing hormone production.
- Targeted therapy: Biologic targeted therapy uses drugs that block the growth of breast cancer cells.
Stages of Breast Cancer
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- Stage 0: Cancer is noninvasive. It hasn’t spread from the breast ducts to other parts of the breast.
- Stage I: Cancer cells are found close to the breast tissue.
- Stage II: Tumors between 2 and 5 centimeters have formed, and may have spread to the underarm lymph nodes.
- Stage III: Locally advanced breast cancer. Cancer has spread in nearby tissue and lymph nodes.
- Stateg IV: Cancer has spread from the breast to other parts of the body such as liver, lungs, bones or brain.
How can Harakaty help?
We have programs designed specifically for women that include a combination of low-intensity movement techniques to activate pelvic floor muscles, enhance neuromuscular control, and increase body strength. Multidimensional movements help reduce or eliminate symptoms such as chronic pain, limited mobility, inflammation, and restricted blood circulation.
