Informative Speech On Breast Cancer

You have probably noticed a lot of pink lately. Athletes are trading their normal gear for pink versions, and commercials and billboards are covered with the iconic pink ribbon. As you have most likely heard, October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. With over 200,000 new cases each year, many of us know someone affected by Breast Cancer. My Grandma, Phyllis, was diagnosed with Breast Cancer almost 30 years ago. She was able to recover, but unfortunately, her cancer returned. It spread to her lungs and eventually to her bones. In fact, last week she had to enter hospice care. Today I will discuss Breast Cancer causes and symptoms, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment.
Normal breast structure is made up of fatty tissue, along with nerves,
It causes extreme fatigue and nausea. Early effects begin as lumps and masses in the breast. These tumors can be painful and can even cause changes to the breast surface. It also commonly metastasizes, or spreads, to other tissues in the lungs, bones, and liver, as was the case with my Grandma.
There are many causes of Breast Cancer, but the most common factors are aging and genetics. The risk of developing this form of cancer greatly increases over age 50. Having a close relative with Breast Cancer also plays a large role. In addition, estrogen exposure, obesity, and excessive alcohol consumption raise the risk of developing cancer. While getting breast implants doesn’t show a direct link of causing cancer, it can make detection of tumors more
The most common, Carcinomas, form in cells that line the breast tissues. Adenocarcinomas form in the glandular tissue, and Sarcomas form in the cells of the muscle, fat, or connective tissue. There are also five different stages of Breast Cancer. The first stage begins with abnormal cells in the lining of the ducts, resulting in increased risk of developing cancer in both breasts. In the second stage, the tumor is less than one inch across. In the third stage, the tumor has grown to less than two inches, and may spread to the lymph nodes. By the fourth stage, the tumor is larger than two inches, has spread extensively to the nearby lymph nodes, and causes noticeable changes to the outside of the skin. Finally, in the fifth stage, the cancer has spread beyond the breast into other areas of the body.
Diagnostics and testing is an ongoing process for a Breast Cancer patient. It begins with an initial screening test, such as a mammogram. If a cyst is discovered, the next step is to have a diagnostic test, such as a biopsy, performed. The biopsy will determine whether a tumor is benign, non-cancerous, or malignant, meaning cancer is present. Once the tumor is removed, doctors will continue monitoring tests to ensure the cancer is gone and new cancer has not formed. Monitoring tests may include CT scans, PET scans, and bone