Monday Myths: Preventative mastectomy eliminates the risk for breast cancer
August 16th, 2010
Does preventative mastectomy eliminate the risk for breast cancer?
The incidence of breast cancer among all women is about 11%. Some families have a higher incidence from generation to generation. Genetic testing has recently become available to help assess risk in these families. Positive identification of either the BRCA1 or BRCA2 (BReast CAncer) genes puts a woman’s risk for breast cancer at nearly 80%.
The threat of such a serious disease can be terrifying. For women at risk, early detection is extremely important, as are frequent mammograms and MRI exams. Diligent breast self-exams, combined with yearly physician consultation are also the cornerstones of early detection. Of course, early detection and treatment provides the greatest chance for a cure for anyone diagnosed with breast cancer.
But what can be done to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer if you are gene positive? Read the rest of this entry »
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