BREAST HEALTH AND SCREENING

Breast cancer originates in the breast tissue. Cancer is caused by cells in a part of the body growing and dividing out of control. This creates a mass of tissue known as a tumor. If the cells that are growing out of control are normal cells, the tumor is called benign—not cancerous. However, if the cells that are growing out of control are abnormal and don't work in conjunction with the body, the tumor is called malignant—cancerous.

Consider these facts:

• 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime
• 7 of 8 breast cancer patients have no direct family history of breast cancer
• 70% of women who develop breast cancer have no identifiable risk factors other than age
• Breast cancer is the leading cause of death for American women ages 35 to 50
• Younger women with breast cancer have worse outcomes and more advanced disease than older women
• Breast cancer diagnosis within two years of childbirth has nearly 50% mortality.
• In the US, the average woman has a 12.5% lifetime risk of developing invasive breast cancer

To prevent or detect early breast cancer, these are a few of the recommended exams:

1. Self Breast Exam: Breast self exam (BSE) is an option for women starting in their 20s. Women should be aware of the benefits and limitations of BSE. Women should report any breast changes to their health professional right away. For more information about BSF, click on this link: http://www.acog.org/publicatio...

2. HALO Breast Pap Test:  The HALO® Breast Pap Test is FDA approved for the collection of nipple aspirate fluid for cytological evaluation. The collected fluid can be used in the determination and/or differentiation of normal versus pre-malignant versus malignant cells. Incorporating Halo into routine practice will enable physicians and patients to monitor cellular changes within breast ducts earlier, before they develop into larger, potentially cancerous lesions.

The HALO System is a simple, reliable method for NAF collection. NAF analysis is an objective assessment of a patient's breast health and can detect early warning signs of ductal cellular changes. Regular assessment and tracking of cellular changes in the milk ducts, where most breast cancer begins, enables clinicians and patients to take control of breast health.

3. Dr. Simhaee will refer you for Mammogram, Breast Ultra Sound, and MRI as per your clinical needs.

There are several symptoms or signs of breast cancer one can look for such as:
•    A mass or lump, which may feel as small as a pea
•    A change in the size, shape, or contour of the breast
•    A blood-stained or clear fluid discharge from the nipple
•    A change in the look or feel of the skin on the breast or nipple
•    Redness of the skin on the breast or nipple
•    An area that is distinctly different from any other area on either breast
•    A marble-like hardened area under the skin