Breast Health from Lifespan

PTSD Not Uncommon After Breast Cancer Diagnosis

Tue, 14 May 2013 00:00:00 EDT

A traumatic event, such as a natural disaster or a severe car accident, can trigger feelings of anxiety and distress-maybe even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). So, too, can a breast cancer diagnosis. Recent research shows that approximately 25 percent of women who are diagnosed with breast cancer may suffer from PTSD. Learning good coping strategies can help you deal with such life-altering news.

Breast Cancer May Be More Deadly for Some Women

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 00:00:00 EDT

Breast cancer doesn't discriminate. Women of all ages, races, and ethnicities - men, too - can develop it. For some women, though - in particular, African-Americans - breast cancer can be more deadly. Many factors play a role in this disparity. Fortunately, by being proactive about breast health, women can help protect themselves from this disease.

A Mammogram Is Still Important

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 00:00:00 EDT

Over the last decade, more Americans have been dismissing cancer screenings, including mammograms. Why? Experts suspect this drop may partly be because of the confusion surrounding screening guidelines. Despite this uncertainty, mammograms remain a valuable tool in fighting breast cancer.

Fighting Breast Cancer: The Latest Treatment Techniques

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 00:00:00 EST

Women diagnosed with breast cancer today have more treatment options available to them than ever before. And scientists continue to make advancements. Coupled with better screening tests that help with diagnosis, newer treatments have helped to reduce the risk of dying from this disease over the last 30-plus years. Below are some of the latest ways doctors are bringing the fight to breast cancer.

Strong Social Ties May Help Women Survive Cancer

Sat, 12 Jan 2013 00:00:00 EST

Learning you have breast cancer can be overwhelming. Many women face hard decisions about their care. A new study indicates that having a strong social network may help women better cope with a breast cancer diagnosis. In particular, it may boost their odds of survival.

Patient Service Helps Spot Cancer Early

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 00:00:00 EST

Early diagnosis is crucial in fighting breast cancer. It often leads to faster treatment and a better chance of survival. That's where a service called "patient navigation" may fit in. A recent study shows this service may shorten the time to diagnosis.

Mammography Pluses Top Any Harms

Fri, 16 Nov 2012 00:00:00 EST

For older women, the benefits of getting a mammogram every two years outweigh potential harms, researchers say.

Study Suggests Change in Radiation Guidelines in Older Women

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 00:00:00 EST

An older woman who has radiation therapy after a lumpectomy may lower her need for a mastectomy later on, a new study says. Yet current guidelines recommend that older breast cancer patients not have radiation.

Do Larger Infants Raise Breast Cancer Risk?

Thu, 13 Sep 2012 00:00:00 EST

Women who give birth to large infants may be 2.5 times more likely to develop breast cancer than women who give birth to the smallest babies.

Radiation Treatment in Childhood Boosts Breast Cancer Risk

Thu, 16 Aug 2012 00:00:00 EST

Girls who get radiation therapy to the chest to treat cancer are at higher risk for breast cancer by the time they turn 50, a new study says.

Moving Toward a Blood Test for Breast Cancer

Sun, 15 Jul 2012 00:00:00 EST

Researchers are looking closer at a blood test that assesses changes in a certain gene's DNA. The test may one day be able to predict who's at risk for breast cancer years before it develops.