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  • Breast Cancer in Young Women and How to Lower the Risks

    Breast Cancer in Young Women and How to Lower the Risks

    Breast Cancer in Young Women and How to Lower the Risks

    Focusing on Ways Young Women Can Lower the Risk of Breast Cancer

    This month we explore education relating to breast cancer in young women. Young women can carry a significant risk for this disease. Ours is a business focused on supporting women through the often significant health challenges. In our blog this month, Second to Nature would like to focus on ways young women can lower their risk.

    We realize that suspecting and receiving a cancer diagnosis can be a difficult time at any age. But receiving a breast cancer diagnosis as a young woman can put one’s life off-balance. Dealing with a significant health problem like breast cancer can impact home and work relationships. This can feel especially stifling just when many young women are starting to establish themselves.

    Most breast cancers are found in women over age 50, but about 11 percent of all new cases in the U.S. are in women younger than 45. If you are in the under-45 age group, this message is for you. If you know a woman under 45, share this information with them about breast cancer risks and ways to lower the risk.

    First, Determine If You May Have a Higher Risk

    There are certain questions you can ask yourself to determine if you could fall in the higher risk category. A woman under age 45 may have a higher breast cancer risk if the answer is yes to any of these:

    1. Do you have any close relatives diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer, significantly at age 45 or younger?
    2. Do you have changes in certain breast cancer genes (BRCA1 and BRCA2)?
    3. Are you of Ashkenazi Jewish heritage?
    4. Did you receive radiation therapy/treatment to the breast or chest in childhood or early adulthood?
    5. Do you have breast cancer or other breast health problems – for example, lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS), ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), atypical ductal hyperplasia, or atypical lobular hyperplasia?

    You may only be able to find answers to some of these questions with the help and guidance of a doctor. Your healthcare professional may refer you to a genetic counselor to check for the breast cancer genes. The doctor may also recommend early screenings or offer other regimens, such as medicine or surgery, that can lower the risk.

    Second, Average Risk as a Young Woman Still Requires Diligence

    If you did not answer “yes” to any of the questions above, you still carry an average risk of getting breast cancer at a young age. This average risk implies the importance of managing the risk actively. So, it is vitally important to know how your breasts normally look and feel.

    Speak with your doctor if you notice any changes in your breasts. We defined some important breast health changes in our blog last month. A breast cancer diagnosis can feel especially devastating, and there are various factors that cause breast cancer in young women. Managing average risk with diligence can help catch cancerous changes in the breast early before they spread.

    What More Can Young Women Do to Reduce Breast Cancer Risk?

    We said before there can be several factors that influence breast cancer risk. Most young women who develop breast cancer do not have any known risk factors or history of the disease in their families. You can take heart in knowing there are also ways to reduce breast cancer risk.

    If you are a young woman under age 45, keep these ways to reduce breast cancer risk in mind:

    Maintain a healthy weight, and exercise regularly.
    Keep an eye on the healthiest weight for your body. Be sure to exercise at least four hours a week. Make these two things a vital part of your way of life as a young woman. You will be sure to stoke your metabolism and reap positive health benefits.

    Limit alcoholic drinks to no more than one per day.
    Some young women never get into the habit of drinking alcohol. However, this may not be the case in some households, and there are studies showing the benefits of drinking a glass of red wine. The takeaway from this and other studies is to limit wine to one glass or one drink per day containing alcohol.

    Avoid exposure to cancer-causing chemicals (carcinogens).
    Contact with a carcinogen raises your breast cancer risk. So, whether it is first- or second-hand smoke, or some other toxic substance, avoid exposure to cancer-causing chemicals. If you cannot avoid these completely, determine ways to reduce the risk as much as possible.

    A Few Additional Ways to Reduce Cancer Risk

    Reduce exposure to radiation (tests, scans).
    Younger women at higher risk for radiation exposure include a number working on the front lines of healthcare. Do all you can to ensure your safety during medical tests and scans. Talk with your healthcare professional about your concerns when scheduling mammograms, X-rays, CT scans, and PET scans.

    Know the risks of hormonal therapies and contraceptives.
    Many young women benefit from prescribed hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills (oral contraceptives). If you are taking either of these substances or have in the past, ask your doctor about the breast cancer risks to decide if these may have an impact on your health.

    Breastfeed your babies, if possible.
    The long-standing assertion that “breast is best” holds true here. For mothers who are able to nurse their babies by breastfeeding, it offers a boost in reducing breast cancer risk. Empower your breastfeeding knowledge and journey by contacting the La Leche League USA for information and support.

    Support for Young Women with Breast Cancer at Second to Nature

    Second to Nature in Roanoke, Virginia, provides dedicated support for women of all ages undergoing breast cancer. We specialize in breast forms and after breast cancer surgery fashions that restore confidence and well-being.

    For more information on breast cancer and risks for young women, visit the CDC website.

    Contact Second to Nature for an appointment at (540) 366-2711 or use our contact form. We are located in Roanoke in the Woodhaven Office Park, at 5450 Peters Creek Road. Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date with the latest news and specials.We are dedicated to breast cancer education and empowerment on breast cancer in young women.

  • Breast Cancer – What You Need to Know

    Breast Cancer – What You Need to Know

    Breast Cancer – What You Need to Know

    Education and Empowerment from Second to Nature in Roanoke, VA

    It was Breast Cancer Awareness Month recently, and we talked about breast cancer last time, so maybe you have a few questions. This is what education can do—spark an interest and generate even more to investigate. It is especially true with education on breast cancer – what you need to know, which is why Second to Nature is providing additional facts.

    Our clients in the Roanoke, Virginia, area take pride in our heritage. While we may choose to celebrate our positive traits, breast cancer is also a difficult part of the legacy we share. It ranks second to skin cancer as the most common type of cancer in American women. We cannot deny the impact breast cancer has on the lives of so many families in our area.

    As mentioned last time, education promotes understanding. This month, we take time to review some of the symptoms and other risk factors surrounding breast cancer. Screening for it can be an eye-opening experience when we make the choice to think about it.

    Looking at Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

    Let’s begin by taking a look at some of the most common symptoms associated with breast cancer – what you need to know. These warning signs from the body signal something is going on. Pay close attention to any of these symptoms as an important part of your body’s early warning system:

    Lumps, Thickening, Swelling

    These warning signs can be fairly obvious, but do not let them fool you. If you are concerned with breast health, you have intimate awareness of how your breasts look every day. When doing breast examinations at home, be sure to check the surrounding areas of the breast. Armpit areas house a number of lymph glands that may show connected signs that warrant a doctor visit. If you notice, by feel or sight, any unusual lumps, thickening of the skin or breast tissue, or swelling, it is time to investigate further.

    Irritation or Dimpling of Breast Skin

    We recognize that there can be times when certain articles of clothing create skin irritation. Often, relief from such minor irritation comes as soon as you change clothes. But consider signs of irritation and dimpling of the breast that do not disappear or directly relate to an obvious cause like wearing an uncomfortable bra.

    Red, Flaky Skin in the Nipple Area

    The appearance or development of red, flaky skin in the nipple area of the breast can be another important symptom. Beyond requiring care, you may need to be aware of whether any recent activity may have caused the redness. Marathon runners, for example, are on high alert for nipple irritation. But if you are not active in this way and experience noticeable red or flaky nipple irritation, it is time to call your healthcare professional.

    Pulling-in or Pain in the Nipple Area

    The nipple area is full of sensitive nerves, so be aware of any lingering pain here. An obvious sign is when the nipple area pulls in on itself. This discomfort is a clear signal that you must pay attention to, especially if you have tried a home remedy and it persists.

    Nipple Discharges Other Than Breast Milk

    One might expect to see breast milk coming from the nipple, but if you experience discharge unexpectedly or have a bloody discharge, it is another warning sign. Pay attention and get it checked out.

    Changes in Breast Size or Shape

    Again, you see your breasts all the time. If you are proactive with breast health, you check regularly. So any change in breast size or shape is a reason to investigate further. Some individuals do experience a slight difference in size and shape. There can be different causes for it, but check it further with a health professional.

    Breast Pain

    You might think that the sign of pain would be first on our list. But as you can see, there are a number of other signs and symptoms that may not have noticeable pain associated with them. And breast pain can be intermittent—such as the soreness or tenderness many women experience with menstruation. Persistent and significant breast pain is a symptom that needs to be reported to and discussed with your healthcare professional.

    There can be one or more of these signs and symptoms present. The human body has some amazing warnings that let us know when something might be amiss. When it comes to breast health, keep these typical signs and symptoms in mind. Do not hesitate in getting them checked by a professional to help you be better informed about what is going on in your body.

    Factors That Increase Risk of Breast Cancer

    There are some general factors that can influence breast cancer risk. Two of the main ones are (1) being a female, and (2) getting older. See below for why we encourage older women to have regular screenings for breast cancer. Here are additional factors that increase the risk of breast cancer:

    • Having your first menstrual period before age 12.
    • Never giving birth or being older when giving birth to your first child.
    • Getting radiation therapy to the breast or chest.
    • Having a personal history of breast cancer, dense breasts, or some other breast problems.
    • Having a family history of breast cancer (e.g., parent, sibling, or child).
    • Taking oral contraceptives (birth control pills).
    • Taking hormones to replace missing estrogen and progesterone in menopause for more than five years.
    • Being overweight, especially after menopause.
    • Starting menopause after age 55.
    • Changes in breast cancer-related genes (BRCA1 or BRCA2).

    As with the signs and symptoms, individuals may experience the presence of one or more of these risk factors. Some of them, such as the genes, require special testing. Other risk factors may be easy enough to track on your own. Bring up these concerns of risk when visiting your doctor. Together, you can keep a closer eye on significant changes in your breast cancer risk.

    Early Screening Offers Plenty of Information on Breast Health

    Last item relating to breast cancer – what you need to know, but certainly not least, is the importance of screening—early screening.

    In fact, breast cancer screening means checking a woman’s breasts for cancer before any of the signs or symptoms appear. The early screening advised by professionals gives them and you a baseline by which to compare. The way most women obtain this early screening is by having a mammogram.

    Mammograms continue to be the best way to find breast cancer in its early stages. A mammogram is an X-ray picture of the breast that lets the doctor see what is happening inside. Having a mammogram can be a little uncomfortable for some women. However, some healthcare facilities may offer options. Mammograms can catch some of the typical cancers in their earliest stages for easier treatment—even before signs and symptoms appear!

    Women ages 50 to 74 should have a screening mammogram every two years. Younger women over age 40 who may have higher breast cancer risk can also benefit from a screening mammogram. Again, these films enable doctors to compare any changes over time, which is why regular checking is so important for breast health.

    If you have low income or no insurance and are between the ages of 40 and 64, our educational source at the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) provides the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program. Call them at (800) CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) to see if you qualify for a free or low-cost mammogram.

    Empower your own knowledge of breast health by keeping track and gathering possible details. Second to Nature shares this critical information on breast health, screenings, breast cancer signs, and risks to encourage you and your family. We are here to help our Roanoke neighbors maintain optimal breast health.

    Contact Second to Nature for an appointment at (540) 366-2711 or use our contact form. We are located in Roanoke in the Woodhaven Office Park, at 5450 Peters Creek Road. Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date with the latest news and specials.We are dedicated to breast cancer education and empowerment in breast cancer – What You Need to Know.

    Source:
    www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/

  • What is Breast Cancer? Take Time to Educate Yourself

    What is Breast Cancer? Take Time to Educate Yourself

    What is Breast Cancer? Take Time to Educate Yourself

    Second to Nature Reviews Important Breast Health Information

    This month, the focus is on some basic, but important, breast health information. Second to Nature in Roanoke, Virginia, is a regional source for breast cancer education, awareness, and support. To us, every day is an important day to share information that can help save lives affected by it.

    No matter who you are, male or female, young or old, any type of cancer can be a significant health concern. The word “cancer” raises many emotions in the patient who has it, as well as extended family members. Before today’s modern imaging practices and other non-invasive tests, breast cancer was a word whispered with much fear and dread.

    Today, as many women and men know, focus is more about empowerment and survival. It helps to have support from educated family and friends, armed with information about treatments and positive outcomes for breast health.

    Defining Breast Cancer and How It Begins

    The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) defines breast cancer as a disease in which cells in the breast grow out of control. Medical experts over the years have documented various kinds. The kind of breast cancer a person may experience depends on which cells in the breast become cancerous.

    As you may know, the human breast consists of three main parts: Lobules, Ducts, and Connective Tissue.

    Lobules – These are the glands that produce milk in the breast.
    Ducts – These structures are tubes that carry milk to the nipple.
    Connective Tissue – These surround structures and hold everything together.

    Connective tissue in the breast may consist of both fibrous and fatty masses. Studies show most breast cancers start in the ducts or lobules. In short, breast cancer can start in different parts of the breast.

    Cancerous cells may sit within the breast as a local mass or tumor. But cancer cells can spread outside the breast through blood and lymph vessels. Once cancer spreads from the breast to other parts of the body, it is said to have metastasized.

    Looking Within – Views of the Breast Parts Inside

    It can be one thing to read and know these parts of the breast exist, and another one to see them. Of course, these parts of the breast look much different underneath the skin. It can be helpful to have a few different views of how these breast parts appear on the inside.

    Take a look at this anterior or front-view of the breast. Here you can see where all the parts are in a typical breast, along with the surrounding chest muscles.

    This second image is a side or cross-section view of the breast, showing those same breast parts, and how they extend out from the ribcage of the chest.

    Common Kinds of Breast Cancer

    As mentioned above, most commonly start in the ducts or lobules. These are the most regular kinds of invasive breast cancer that tests may discover:

    Invasive ductal carcinoma –

    Invasive ductal carcinoma is where the cancer cells grow outside the ducts and into other parts of the breast tissue. With invasive cancer cells, it can also metastasize or spread to other parts of the body.

    Invasive lobular carcinoma –

    With invasive lobular carcinoma, cancer cells spread from the lobules to the nearby breast tissues. These invasive cancer cells have the ability to spread to other parts of the body.

    Non-invasive Breast Cancer

    In addition to these invasive types, there are several less-common types of breast cancer. Some of these include Paget’s disease and inflammatory breast cancer. Click on the names to link with fact sheets at cancer.gov. These fact sheets contain more information on these less-common types.

    Ductal carcinoma in situ, or DCIS, is a kind of disease that may lead to breast cancer. With DCIS, the cells only appear to sit in the lining of the ducts alone. These cells have not spread to other breast parts or tissues in the breast.

    Education is ‘Second Nature’ at Second to Nature

    Because we know and speak about health matters every day, it may feel like “second nature” to our staff. We appreciate the journey of our clients who undergo mastectomy and other treatments. Meeting clients with knowledge and empathy helps the community at large. Education helps us understand, so we can relate to different situations. Whenever possible, we extend education to others in the Roanoke community.

    Our ongoing commitment to professional development also keeps us up-to-date on the newest fashions, products, and other supports. This makes Second to Nature unique in the Roanoke area and a good partner for clients and their families who are going through the experience of recovery.

    When it comes to your recovery after surgery, rely on Second to Nature’s caring staff to help. Be sure to stop back again over the next few months to read more on educational topics, including a special feature for young women.

    Contact Second to Nature for an appointment at (540) 366-2711 or use our contact form. We are located in the Woodhaven Office Park, at 5450 Peters Creek Road, Roanoke, VA. Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date with the latest news and specials. We are dedicated to empowerment and education to answer ‘what is breast cancer’, and so much more.

  • Choosing the Surgery That’s Right for You

    Choosing the Surgery That’s Right for You

    Choosing the Surgery That’s Right for You

    Decisions, Decisions—Choices About Your Health

    A number of decisions make up the health journey of each individual. From the type of doctor you see, to the insurance plan you carry, there are many factors that have an impact on your health and the choices you make. When you receive a significant diagnosis like breast cancer, the decisions you make can mean a lot for your outlook.

    A couple months ago, we talked about the different types of breast cancer surgeries. So much of a person’s breast cancer journey comes from making sound decisions based on current and reliable information. Each patient strives for the best success they can in treating their specific type of breast cancer.

    When the Doctor Recommends Surgery

    Beginning with your primary doctor, you may also see a specialist or two or require a number of tests to diagnose the condition. Surgery can often be the most effective way to rid the body of cancer; however, there are many factors that determine if surgery is a viable option. Consider all the factors and advice from health experts as you weigh your decisions about breast cancer surgery.

    It can be a natural reaction to just want to remove cancer in the fastest way possible. When trying to decide on a surgery, there may be more involved than this sense of urgency. Some top advice you may hear from family, friends, and cancer experts alike are reminders to:

    • Take time to research your options. Ask your nurse for handouts on each procedure. As you read, make a list of questions for your surgeon, and then take notes while talking to them.
    • Involve a plastic surgeon*. This can help when weighing the importance of breast saving techniques, reconstruction, and other post-surgery supports.
    • Discuss your treatment plan with loved ones. Having support from those closest to you can have a big impact on post-surgery outcomes. You may even get specific in asking loved ones to help you in certain ways, depending on your needs.
    • Find out your family history, including if any loved ones have had cancer. This could provide some indication of possibly successful options or treatments.

    The Importance of Getting a Second Opinion

    *Whenever possible, get a second opinion, as well. This won’t insult your surgeon—they will want you to feel secure in your final decision. When faced with a significant surgery, it is best to learn all you can about options before, during, and afterward.

    Obtaining the advice of another doctor, surgeon, or specialist is part of your own due diligence in making the best decision for your health. Taking time to get that second opinion, weigh all your options, and determine the best way forward can bring much in the way of information and options—including those relating to post-surgery care and support.

    Considering Options for After Breast Cancer Surgery

    After-breast-cancer-surgery care might include additional treatments recommended by the doctor or specialist. Effective supplemental treatments might range from a chemical or radiation regime, to exercise therapy and other physical supports. As with surgery, each type of after-surgery treatment and care will rely primarily on the type of cancer and surgery the doctor performs.

    Healing after breast cancer surgery itself takes time. Treatments and any remaining side-effects may add to your recovery time. Various forms of physical therapies may also help with healing and recovery. When ready, Second to Nature has the breast forms and other garments many clients feel are essential to restoring wellbeing.

    Control Your Treatment Plan with Plenty of Information

    Gathering as much information as possible can set your mind at ease and put you in control of your treatment plan. The journey of choosing the right breast cancer surgery that’s right for you is no small feat. It can affect your life moving forward in significant ways.

    Having the right supports for your life after breast cancer surgery can make a big difference. This is why Second to Nature seeks to be one of your significant partners when it comes to your recovery after surgery. We have the experience, knowledgeable advice, and supports for clients throughout the Roanoke region. Keep our number handy and give us a call to see how we can help you.

    Contact Second to Nature for an appointment at (540) 366-2711 or use our contact form. We are located in Roanoke in the Woodhaven Office Park, at 5450 Peters Creek Road. Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date with the latest news and specials.We are dedicated to breast cancer education and empowerment in choosing the surgery that’s right for you.

  • Who to Tell About Your Cancer?

    Who to Tell About Your Cancer?

    Choosing the Surgery That’s Right for You

    Finding Comfort in an Uncomfortable Situation

    Who should you tell about your cancer diagnosis? Finding out you have cancer can be overwhelming for you, as well as your friends and family. People often don’t know what to say. They may feel sad and uncomfortable and might be afraid of upsetting you. For generations, finding effective cancer treatment was so rare. Many friends and family members might be frightened about the possibility of losing you.

    Sometimes, people find it easier to say nothing because they’re afraid of saying the wrong thing. Some people find it easy to talk, while others may become overly careful or act too cheerful. They may take pains to avoid mentioning anything to do with health at all, at a time when you may need to seek out the comfort of friends and family.

    How Do You Feel About Your Cancer Diagnosis?

    You most likely will have many different emotions as you learn more about your diagnosis. The fear and uncertainty may level out once you begin to learn about treatment options. It is normal to wonder, “Why me?” or to feel sad, angry, or afraid. All of these are valid questions and emotions for someone with a cancer diagnosis.

    Physical and chemical changes from the treatment or the cancer itself can also affect your emotions. These are very real side-effects that can sometimes be difficult to understand. The cancer diagnosis can bring a variety of physical, mental, and emotional changes to light.

    The first step is to admit to yourself how you feel. It is okay to let yourself feel the way you do. This validation of your personal feelings will assist you in talking with others about your cancer diagnosis and their reactions.

    Getting Ready to Talk with Others

    It is extremely rare that a person with cancer will choose to go through the experience alone. There is probably at least one person or more with whom you wish to share the news. However, do not feel rushed or pressured into divulging your diagnosis. Friends and family will respond differently to what you share with them and how you share it. Getting ready to talk with others may take some time to prepare.

    Only you can decide when to tell your friends and family that you have cancer. People are very sobered by the news that someone has cancer. Most people need and want to talk to someone when they find themselves in this kind of situation.

    For single people without supportive family members nearby, it may be even more important to let close friends know what is happening. Think ahead so you can tell them what they can do when they ask how they can help. People who live alone often have a few extra needs, compared to those who live with others.

    Adjusting to This New Reality of a Cancer Diagnosis

    Sometimes, telling those closest to you helps you with the reality of what is happening. People find that by talking, they begin to solve problems and think about other issues as their family and friends ask questions. Beyond problem solving, talking with others provides an opportunity to share honest feelings, where others may feel empowered to share their own experience with cancer.

    It may help to take note of any important discussions you have with friends and family, especially if they share information that you feel is important or raises any questions you can ask the doctor. Depending on your relationship with those you tell, you may want to set some ground rules or boundaries on future discussions. Deciding how and when to talk about your cancer, treatments, or other supports can help empower your experience in a more positive way.

    How Much Information to Share?

    Think about how much you want to share. You might want to explain what kind of cancer you have, which treatments you might need, and your outlook (or prognosis). Speak as best as you can from a base of knowledge, which you can obtain from your doctor’s office, online resources, or the local cancer society. Depending on the type of cancer or treatment, you may be able to share informative literature or brochures.

    If a friend or family member asks a question you cannot answer, write it down. Be honest and tell them that the experience is on-going, and there will be plenty of questions along the way. As mentioned earlier, as you talk with others, you may want to write down the questions that come up. These are the questions you can discuss later with your cancer care team.

    Prepare Yourself for Reactions—Your Own and from Others

    Being on the receiving end of cancer news can be difficult to handle and may cause dramatic reactions in yourself and others. Your discussion with your doctor and other health professionals who work with cancer on a regular basis may go smoothly. Talking with friends or family may elicit entirely different reactions. It may be wise to prepare yourself for who you tell and to think ahead to any possible reactions they may have.

    You know your friends and loved ones best, and some may be better equipped than others to hear the news. You may want to plan ahead as to where you share the news, whether it is at home over coffee or out on a park bench where you might have a private conversation. Bring along tissues or water to share to help bring ease to what you have to say. Remember to breathe and take time to accept the words you share in conversation to achieve some level of comfort.

    You may also choose to speak with the caring team at Second to Nature about sharing news about your cancer. We are here to help educate and support individuals going through the experience of breast cancer. Our industry connections may provide you with beautiful encouragement and practical solutions, so reach out to us anytime.

    Second to Nature is dedicated to education and empowerment of persons experiencing breast cancer before and after surgery. We are located in the Woodhaven Office Park, at 5450 Peters Creek Road, Roanoke, VA. Call for an appointment at (540) 366-2711 or use our convenient contact form. Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date with the latest news and specials.