In Loving Memory We honor the borthers and sisters we have lost to Metastatic Breast Cancer and the 119 people we lose each day to this disease. We promise to: Say their names Talk about them often Share their stories and honor their legacy Check back soon Once posts are published, you’ll see them here. Follow Us laura@survivingbreastcancer.org 5 Cedar Street, Boston, MA Contact us © 2022, Registered 501(c)(3). EIN 82-2953427 Never miss a beat. Stay connected with SBC on Social for daily updates, news, and information!

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Download PDF Surgery Options Questions to ask your Surgeon What should I expect during a consultation for breast reconstruction? During your breast reconstruction consultation, be prepared to discuss: Your surgical goals Medical conditions, drug allergies and medical treatments Current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drug use Previous surgeries Your plastic surgeon will also: Evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors Examine your breasts and take measurements of their size and shape, skin quality and placement of nipples and areolae Take photographs Discuss your options and recommend a course of treatment Discuss likely outcomes of breast reconstruction and any risks or potential complications Be sure to ask your plastic surgeon questions. It's very important to understand all aspects of your breast reconstruction. To help, we have prepared a checklist of questions to ask your breast reconstruction surgeon that you can take with you to your consultation. It's natural to feel some anxiety, whether it's excitement for your anticipated new look or a bit of preoperative stress. Don't be shy about discussing these feelings with your plastic surgeon. What options are available for breast reconstruction? If you've decided to have breast reconstruction, you'll still have many things to think about as you and your doctors talk about what type of reconstruction might be best for you. There are many different reconstruction techniques available. Take the time to learn about the breast reconstruction options and consider talking to others who have had that procedure before you make a decision. Breast reconstruction with implants Implant-based breast reconstruction may be possible if the mastectomy or radiation therapy have left sufficient tissue on the chest wall to cover and support a breast implant. For patients with insufficient tissue on the chest wall, or for those who don't desire implants, breast reconstruction will require a flap technique (also known as autologous reconstruction). The most common method of tissue reconstruction uses lower abdominal skin and fat to create a breast shape. There are several techniques that can be used for implant-based breast reconstruction. Make sure to discuss with your plastic surgeon which is appropriate for you. Immediate breast reconstruction above the pectoral muscle This procedure is performed in combination with the mastectomy and results in an immediate breast mound. After the mastectomy has been performed by the breast surgeon, the plastic surgeon will place the breast implant, wrapped in a biological mesh known as acellular dermal matrix (ADM), to help the implant maintain correct anatomic position, above the pectoralis muscle. With this procedure, recuperation may be more rapid because the muscle in the chest has not been elevated. Further, the breast implant itself is not influenced by the contraction of the muscle. Complications, while rare, may include skin loss, excess bleeding, infection, malposition of the implant so that asymmetry occurs, wrinkling or rippling of the implant, possible fluid collection underneath the implant and/or unfavorable scarring. This procedure may also require secondary autologous fat transfer to eliminate upper pole wrinkling and rippling over time, which will occur over secondary procedures. Immediate breast reconstruction under the pectoral muscle This procedure is also performed as a combination with the mastectomy and results in an immediate breast mound. The incision generally is performed through the mastectomy site. Once the mastectomy is completed, the plastic surgeon will elevate the pectoralis major muscle. This will allow the muscle to retract upward and allow a pocket to be developed underneath the muscle and at the bottom of the normal breast position. Delayed breast reconstruction utilizing tissue expander. The initial portion of this procedure entails the breast surgeon performing a standard mastectomy and possible axillary dissection. In many instances, a drain will be placed between the muscle and the skin of the mastectomy. Once these procedures have been performed, the plastic surgeon will divide the lower pole of the chest wall muscle, elevate the chest wall muscle and the lateral chest muscle together upwards towards the collarbone. After that is done, the muscle and tissue below is elevated together to form the pocket for the breast expander at the base of the breast or the inframammary crease. The pocket is made large enough for the expander to be placed and the muscle closed. Occasionally, there is a need for placement of a small amount of acellular dermal matrix (ADM) to assist in the closure of the muscle. There are two types of breast tissue expander ports. One, similar to a chemotherapy port, is placed separate from the tissue expander, usually along the rib cage. This will require a separate small incision for the port. The second type is a port that is contained within the expander itself. In both instances, the ports will be used to inflate the tissue expander over several visits with saline solution. The port is accessed with a small needle and saline is injected into the expander through the port site Tissue expansion usually occurs weekly according to patient tolerance. The volume of the tissue expanders commonly exceeds the weight of the mastectomy tissue. Once the final tissue expansion, or stretching, is completed there will be a time of passive expansion where little to no volume is added to the tissue expanders. This allows the muscle and skin to stretch and relax. The length of time will vary from patient to patient. Once this is completed, a second outpatient procedure will be necessary to remove the tissue expander and place the permanent breast prosthesis. Complications, while rare, may include skin loss, exposure of the expander, excess bleeding, infection, malposition of the implant so that asymmetry occurs, wrinkling or rippling of the implant, possible fluid collection underneath the implant, pain at the injection site, muscle spasms with expansion and/or unfavorable scarring. Lymphedema 101 On Breast Cancer Conversations, the Podcast Listen Now A biodegradable acellular dermal matrix (ADM) will be placed at the bottom of the breast or inframammary crease and attached to the muscle. The breast implant will be placed under the ADM and your own muscle. This allows the breast implant to settle in a normal position, and the ADM stretches into a pleasing, rounded lower breast shape. It is not uncommon to have drains placed with this procedure. They may be removed anywhere from 48 hours to 2 weeks after surgery. This procedure is a one-staged procedure, which allows the desired shape to result without any further surgical intervention. The muscle on top of the implant will help prevent the development of upper pole wrinkling. Complications, while rare, may include skin loss, excess bleeding, infection, malposition of the breast implant so that asymmetry occurs, wrinkling or rippling of the implant, possible fluid collection underneath the implant and/or prosthesis deflation. Immediate breast tissue expander placement The surgical process for saline breast tissue expanders and breast expanders following mastectomy are the same. Expanders with saline have been used for decades but recently, a new type of expander using air, which allows for more patient control, have been introduced. Expanders have some of the same complication rates and risks as the other types of breast reconstruction, which include infection, seroma, hematoma, extrusion and/or expander deflation. The expander is placed into a submuscular or subcutaneous space with no external filling ability. The expander will fill with compressed air contained within the expander itself. The patient will do self-controlled expander fills utilizing an external automatic activation device at home and will achieve similar results to the standard saline filled tissue expansion devices. It will be necessary to monitor the incisions and progress on your own and contact the physician if you feel there is something wrong. The advantage of the expander it that it may decrease doctor visits and decrease total expansion time. Immediate breast reconstruction utilizing latissimus dorsi muscle. This procedure is performed as a secondary operation immediately during the mastectomy or delayed after radiation. The latissimus muscle is a very large vascular muscle in the back that is attached at the base of the arm, extends onto the chest from the arm past the shoulder blade and attaches close to the spinal column. The latissimus muscle stretches to the tip bone and hallway into the axilla or armpit area and is supplied mostly by artery in the axilla. The latissimus flap is frequently used when the amount of soft tissue is limited secondary to surgery, the pectoralis muscle is absent, partially removed or damaged secondary to radiation. It entails undermining the skin on the back and releasing some of the skin allowing it to remain attached to the muscle. The main muscle and artery is called pedicle flap. This flap is released from the back, passed through a tunnel that is made underneath the axilla and into the anterior chest to fill the mastectomy defect site. The muscle is placed and sutured to the chest wall. An implant is then placed behind this flap and in front of the chest. One can also use a tissue expander and gradually increase to breast size. The advantage to this expander is it can completely replace the amount of breast tissue that has been removed and protect the latissimus flap. A completely inflated implant or a postoperative adjustable expander/implant can be immediately placed. It is not uncommon to require a secondary revision procedure to gain more accurate symmetry of both breasts. The latissimus flap is recommended for patients who have already had mastectomy and radiation. The use of radiation frequently limits the amount of implant surgery that can be performed. The secondary advantage of this flap is that it brings new blood flow and healthy skin to the radiated field. It is also recommended for patients who are very thin and have limited options for flap reconstruction. Complications, while rare, may include limited blood flow of the artery compromising the flap, skin loss, exposure of the expander, excess bleeding, infection, malposition of the implant so that asymmetry occurs, wrinkling or rippling of the implant, possible fluid collection underneath the implant, pain at the injection site, muscle spasms with expansion and/or unfavorable scarring. Breast reconstruction with abdominal-based flaps Sometimes a mastectomy or radiation therapy will leave insufficient tissue on the chest wall to cover and support a breast implant. In these cases, breast reconstruction usually requires a flap technique (also known as autologous reconstruction). This is the most common method of tissue reconstruction, using lower abdominal skin and fat to create a breast shape. A woman may also choose not to have an implant for personal reasons. The skin and fat used for this procedure is the tissue between your belly button and pubic bone that you can pinch. Once this tissue is taken to make a breast, you will typically have a scar from hip bone to hip bone and around your belly button. However, some women may not be candidates for abdominal-based flaps for various reasons: • Not enough donor tissue in the lower abdomen • Prior scars that may have damaged important blood vessels • Previous flaps that have failed and seeking an alternative Specific flap options Several different flaps use the tissue from the lower abdomen. The difference between each of them is related to blood vessels that supply these flaps. These flaps include the Pedicled TRAM (traverse rectus myocutaneous) flap, the free TRAM flap, the DIEP (deep inferior epigastric artery perforator) flap and the SIEA (superficial epigastric artery) flap. Pedicled TRAM flap A TRAM flap uses the muscle, fat and skin from your lower abdomen to reconstruct a breast. In order to survive on your chest in its new location, this tissue requires a blood supply. The blood supply to this tissue comes from the underlying rectus (six-pack) muscle. The flap remains attached to your rectus abdominis muscle and is tunneled up through the abdomen and chest to create the breast mound. Since your entire muscle is sacrificed, you may experience some abdominal weakness or have difficulty performing sit-ups. Free TRAM flap Like the TRAM flap, the free TRAM flap is also based on the blood vessels coming through the rectus abdominis muscle. However, in this flap the muscle above and below the blood vessels is divided, so that only a portion of muscle is removed. The entire flap is then transplanted to the chest. The blood vessels from the muscle are connected to blood vessels in the chest using a microscope. DIEP flap The DIEP flap utilizes the same lower abdominal skin and fat as the TRAM and free TRAM flap; however, it spares the rectus abdominis muscle and fascia. Rather than taking the entire muscle or a small portion of the muscle, the small blood vessels – an artery and a vein – that come through the muscle to the skin and fat are identified; these vessels are then dissected through the muscle prior to being divided. Once they are divided, the tissue is again transplanted to the chest and the vessels are connected to blood vessels in the chest. Since your muscle is preserved, there is a lower risk of abdominal weakness or hernias and less postoperative pain. SIEA flap The SIEA flap also uses the lower abdominal skin and tissue, but the blood vessels that supply this flap do not go through the abdominal muscle. Rather, they only go through the fat. Advantages of this flap include preservation of the abdominal muscles, resulting in less postoperative pain and a speedier recovery. However, these blood vessels may not be present in all women; and even when present, may be too small to provide a reliable blood supply for a flap. For these reasons, the SIEA flap is not performed as frequently as the DIEP or free TRAM flaps. Special notes regarding recovery Because the free TRAM, DIEP and SIEA flaps involve microsurgical tissue transfer, blood flow to the flap is closely monitored in a hospital setting after surgery. If there are concerns about the flap, a reoperation may be necessary to assess the blood flow. Breast reconstruction with thigh-based flaps Sometimes a mastectomy or radiation therapy will leave insufficient tissue on the chest wall to cover and support a breast implant. In these cases, breast reconstruction usually requires a flap technique (also known as autologous reconstruction). Thigh-based flaps may be a good option for women with small to medium volume breasts. To achieve a larger size, these flaps may be combined with an implant or another flap (called "stacked flaps," which are not widely available). All of these techniques require your plastic surgeon to have skill and training in microsurgery. However, some women may not be candidates for thigh-based flaps for various reasons: • Not enough donor tissue in the upper thighs • Prior scars that may have damaged important blood vessels • Previous flaps have failed and they are seeking an alternative Specific flap options Gracilis-based flaps are based on the gracilis muscle, located in the upper inner thigh. The gracilis muscle helps bring the leg toward the body, and its function will be lost after this type of surgery. During these procedures, a flap of skin, fat, muscle and blood vessels from the upper thigh is moved to the chest to rebuild the breast. Blood vessels are carefully reattached using microsurgery. Different names are used to describe the orientation of the resulting donor site incision on the upper inner thigh: • TUG flap: Transverse Upper Gracilis flap • VUG flap: Vertical Upper Gracilis flap • DUG flap: Diagonal Upper Gracilis flap The choice of incision depends on your unique thigh shape and your surgeon's experience. Most surgeons will try to conceal the scars in the crease at the top of the thigh, but the scar may end up a bit lower and be visible while wearing a bathing suit. These flaps result in a tighter inner thigh, similar to an inner thigh lift. Similar to the gracilis-based flaps, a PAP flap uses skin and fat from the back of the upper thigh to reconstruct the breast using microsurgery. PAP stands for Profunda Artery Perforator, which is a blood vessel that supplies this area of the thigh. No muscle is used, so a PAP flap is considered muscle-sparing. PAP flap scars are usually hidden in the crease between the lower buttock and upper thigh. Special notes regarding recovery Because these flaps involve microsurgical tissue transfer, blood flow to the flap is closely monitored in a hospital setting after surgery. If there are concerns about the flap, a reoperation may be necessary to assess the blood flow. Thigh-based flaps do tend to have more healing problems at the donor site than abdominal-based flaps due to the location of the incision. Lower leg swelling may occur but usually resolves with time. When one thigh-based flap is used to reconstruct one breast, asymmetry may result due to tightness and thinness of one thigh. Additional procedures may be recommended to improve symmetry between the thighs.

Diet and nutrition play an important role during a breast cancer diagnosis. When you are going through treatment, and after your active treratment ends. Food as medicine Eat Right, Feel Amazing Health and nutrition is such an important part of the fitness equation. The right compliments of foods allow you to achieve optimal performance and feel your best! "Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food" Salud Física Salud Mental Arteterapia Podcast More Nutrition Guide A Partial Guideline for Nutrition and Exercise For Breast Cancer Patients and Survivors A healthy diet is only one of several factors that can affect the immune system; exercise and stress management are equally as important in improving one’s overall health and well-being. Following the initial diagnosis of breast cancer, most women tend to re-think their nutrition and health practices. It’s only natural to question what caused this cancer to occur and what lifestyle changes one should be making. Most women believe they must make significant dietary changes to ensure good outcomes following breast cancer treatment. We found several studies to be most helpful when coming to terms with Nutrition and Exercise post diagnosis. What follows is directly pulled from the John Hopkins study : There are no food or dietary supplements that will act as “magic bullets” to prevent breast cancer from returning. National Cancer Institute guidelines for cancer prevention can be used to decrease the chance of a breast cancer recurrence. These guidelines include: Increase intake of fruits, vegetables and whole grains Decrease fat intake to less than 30 percent of calories Minimize intake of cured, pickled and smoked foods Achieve and maintain a healthy weight Alcohol consumption should be done in moderation, if at all This second study from Dana Farber addresses diet and exercise suggestions http://www.dana-farber.org/health-library/articles/healthy-diet-and-exercise-tips-for-breast-cancer-patients/ Exercise Exercise Exercise during all stages of life is important, but it can be particularly important for breast cancer survivors because it can help you feel better after treatment and promote survivorship. Studies show that walking 3-5 hours per week at a pace of 2 to 3 miles per hour can lower the chances of breast cancer recurrence and death by up to 40 percent. Walking can help you fight fatigue, depression, and anxiety as well as improve heart and bone health. Engaging your children in physical activity can be a great way to incorporate exercise into your daily life schedule. Remember to talk to your doctor before beginning an exercise program. Plant-based diet Plant-based diets, which include fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins, are all highly recommended components of a balanced diet for breast cancer survivorship. Research has found that eating 5 or more daily servings of fruits and vegetables a day in addition to the equivalent of walking 30 minutes, 6 days per week is associated with significant survival advantage. Eating a well-balanced diet with lean protein, including plant sources, such as lentils, beans, nuts, nut butters, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and healthy fats like avocado and olive oil, in amounts to maintain a healthy weight, along with exercise is the best thing you can do for optimal health. Check back soon Once posts are published, you’ll see them here. Meal Planning and Phytonutrients Raw vs. cooked vegetables? Vegetables are an important part of a healthy diet. Eating a variety of different types of vegetables, whether cooked or raw, provides the body with various vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. Raw and cooked vegetables provide different nutrients. For example, cooked tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a nutrient that's not as available in raw tomatoes. In turn, raw tomatoes are rich in potassium and vitamin C, nutrients that decrease with cooking. In all methods of preparation, and whether you buy them frozen or fresh, be sure to include plenty of vegetables in your daily diet. What are the best ways to cook vegetables? The healthiest ways to cook vegetables include steaming, stir-frying, sautéing, baking and grilling. These methods prevent the overcooking of vegetables that would disintegrate the valuable nutrients. Which are healthier: fruits and vegetables that are fresh or frozen? They are equal. No matter how they are stored, the nutritional value of fruits and vegetables varies only slightly whether they are fresh or frozen. Buy them and enjoy them often; that's the healthiest way to eat fruits and vegetables. Choosing locally grown produce is another option for maximizing the nutrient levels in produce. What about canned fruits and vegetables? Buy fruit canned in water or light/natural juice. When buying canned vegetables, check the label for the sodium content and choose the low-sodium version. Canned fruits and vegetables can be easy to digest, and therefore are good choices for persons with diarrhea due to cancer treatment or recent surgery. Should I choose organic fruits and vegetables? The scientific research on organic verses conventional foods and cancer risk is not conclusive enough for specific guidelines to be determined. Therefore, the decision to choose organic or conventional produce is ultimately a personal health choice. When consuming produce, remember these points: Always wash all produce (organic or conventional), even if the package is labeled "pre-washed" If you decide to choose organic produce and cost is a concern, choose organic produce that has been found to contain the highest levels of pesticide residues when grown conventionally. The following lists may be useful for making wise choices. The USDA, Consumer Reports, and the Environmental Working group have investigated the amounts of pesticide residues found on commonly consumed produce and created the following tables. Produce was washed before pesticide levels were tested. Produce with highest levels of pesticide residue: Apples Bell Peppers (Green and Red) Celery Cherries (U.S.) Grapes (Chile) Lettuce Nectarines Peaches Pears Potatoes (U.S.) Spinach Strawberries Produce with lowest levels of pesticide residues: Asparagus Avocados Bananas Broccoli Sweet Corn Cabbage Eggplant Kiwi Mango Onions Pineapples Peas (frozen) The bottom line: The benefits of eating fresh fruits and vegetables far outweigh the risks associated with pesticide residue. Phytonutrients found in fruits and vegetables (organic or conventional) promote immune support and detoxification in the body and are excellent sources of disease-fighting nutrients. Read Articles Events & Programs Our events and programs are designed to offer healing, support, and friendship. Whether you attend a weekly meetup, a meditation class, or an art therapy session or expressive writing workshop, our programs promote well-being while offering a safe and nurturing space for you to just be you! 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Después de un Diagnóstico ofrece apoyo a aquellos diagnosticados con cáncer de mama, sus cuidadores y familias a nivel global. Rompiendo las barreras para acceder a la información, Surviving Breast Cancer pone en primer lugar a las personas, y crea programas y contenido educativo para la comunidad. Salud Física Salud Mental Arteterapia Podcast More Grupo de Apoyo: Después de un Diagnóstico ¿Has sido diagnosticado con cáncer de mama? ¿Necesitas de alguien que realmente entienda cómo te sientes? El grupo de apoyo para el cáncer de mama de [nombre de la organización] te ofrece un espacio seguro y confiable donde podrás compartir tus experiencias con otras personas que están pasando por lo mismo. En nuestro grupo de apoyo y clases tendrás la oportunidad de: Hacer nuevas amistades Obtener apoyo emocional Compartir tus experiencias y aprender de las experiencias de los demás Únete a nuestro grupo de apoyo y descubre que no estás sola. Disfruta de muchas actividades Cada semana te traemos programas en línea, reuniones, webinars, eventos y oportunidades para que puedas conocer a otras personas mientras transitas por el cáncer de mama. Explora Asistencia en línea Obten apoyo en línea las 24 horas del día cuando más lo necesites. Ofrecemos grupos virtuales y una comunidad de personas que han sido diagnosticadas de cáncer de mama para ofrecerte apoyo entre iguales. Únete Información a tu alcance Descubre información clave sobre el cáncer de mama: factores de riesgo, síntomas y opciones de tratamiento. Obtén datos actualizados sobre la detección temprana y avances en investigación. Conoce la importancia de la autoexploración y mamografías. Encuentra recursos para el apoyo emocional y la prevención. Leer más Servicios para la comunidad Donate Podcast: Después de un Diagnóstico En nuestros webinars y podcasts, aprenderás sobre: Los diferentes tipos de cáncer de mama Los tratamientos disponibles Cómo afrontar los desafíos emocionales Cómo cuidarte a ti misma y a tus seres queridos Explora Escuchar Correo electrónico Enviar ¡Gracias por Suscribirte! Sobre ti Suscríbete al boletín Descarga tu calendario Calendario de eventos

Understanding Your Breast Health is the first step in being breast aware and knowing your body so that you can proactively advocate for yourself when you sense that something is not quit right. Despite how well we eat, exercise, and maintain a healthy life-style, it is still possible to develop breast cancer. This information serves as strategies to empower you and reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. If you develop breast caner, know that it is not your fault. The founder of Surviving Breast Cancer was a vegetarian since the age of 16 later to become a vegan. Out of the blue she was diagnosed with breast cancer at the young age of 34. We don't have all of the answers nor know why some people get breast cancer while others do not. What we do know are tools we can use to be breast aware, get screened, and understand our family history. Breast Health

Find an event that is just right for you! We provide community, support, and resources. Meet others, share stories, and be part of a positive and thriving breast cancer community you can call your own. Surviving Breast Cancer ofrece apoyo, eventos y seminarios web sobre el cáncer de mama sin coste alguno para ti. Ya sea que estés buscando obtener más conocimientos sobre un tema en particular o reunirte con otros sobrevivientes del cáncer de mama, tenemos algo para todos. Únete a nuestro Grupo de Apoyo que se reúne todos los jueves por la noche. Participa en un seminario web en directo con expertos en la materia. Mueve tu cuerpo y tu mente con nosotros. Incluso tenemos un club de lectura mensual para no hablar sobre el cáncer de mama. Apoyo a sobrevivientes de Cáncer de Mama y Eventos Pensados para Ti Suscríbete a Nuestro Boletín Email Enviar Gracias por Suscribirte! A R T E T E R A P I A Para contar la historia de tu tratamiento La narración es una herramienta increíble para la sanación emocional tras un diagnóstico de cáncer. En este taller, usaremos el arte para contar la historia de tu tratamiento de cáncer. CLASES CALENDARIO Ver eventos Eventos y Clases Yoga de Sanación Energética Clases Con Flor Franco Después de un Diagnóstico ¿Has pensado que a veces solo quieres reunirte y pasar el rato con otras personas que lo entienden? ¡Estás en el lugar correcto! El tercer martes del mes por la noche a las 7:00 p. m., Hora del Este, despuesdeundiagnostico.org organiza nuestro evento exclusivo, tu Grupo de Apoyo, una comunidad que forma poderosos lazos que se extiended más allá de un diagnóstico. Unirme Meditación en movimiento Quantum Flow es una metodología que combina los principios de varias metodologías tanto ancestrales como modernas para reconectarte contigo misma y con el universo. Clases CLASES ESCRITURA EXPRESIVA Únete a nosotros para el taller de Escritura expresiva, en este taller aprenderemos las técnicas y herramientas para expresar lo que más nos cuesta decir, lo que nos da vueltas en la cabeza o nos atormenta por las noches.

Una mente sana y equilibrada Ayuda a manejar el estrés, la ansiedad y los desafíos de la vida de manera más positiva Quantum Flow es una metodología conocida como técnica de manifestación de encarnación. Es una práctica que toma los mejores principios de muchas metodologías ancestrales y modernas y los une para formar algo completamente nuevo. Meditación Para Principiantes Respira Calma Relaja Baile Libre Ho'oponopono Yoga Facial Interiorizándonos Introducción a la Escritura Expresiva En esta clase práctica podrás empezar a practicar la escritura expresiva. Marcia nos acompaña en este viaje hacia nuestro interior y nos guía en actividades fáciles para iniciar. ¿Cómo escribir? ¿Qué escribir? Clase 3 Salud Física

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Resources For Parents A breast cancer diagnosis not only affects the person with the disease, but also has a significant impact on the people around them; their families, spouses, children, friends and co-workers. Receiving the news that someone you love has been diagnosed with cancer may propel you into a flurry of emotions. It is natural to feel worried about the unknown and uncertainty. It is also natural to want to do everything you can to protect and support the person as well. After all, we want to be strong and be there for the person as they are going through grueling treatments and tireless complex decision-making. At Survivingbreastcancer.org (SBC), we also understand that the role the family (parent, spouse, & children), caregivers, and friends play is a critical one, and you too need support and resources. Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis takes both an emotional and physical toll on each and every one of us. While a lot of the attention may be directed towards the person with breast cancer, we pride ourselves on carving out space to provide education, community, and resources to meet your specific needs as the spouse, parent, child, or friend. Whether you recently found out that someone you love has been diagnosed with breast cancer, has experienced a recurrence or progression, or has passed away from metastatic disease, we hold space for you and want you to know that you are not alone. We are here for you! Remember that each of us manages and navigates a breast cancer diagnosis differently. What we aim to provide is a community where you can share experiences and recommendations, and learn from each other. No one is navigating this alone. Your story is someone else's lifeline. We are all experts in our own experiences; we share the names and memories of those we have lost; continue to love; and we are here to build lasting friendships and forge bonds as we navigate a breast cancer diagnosis from day one and beyond. With Gratitude, Laura Carfang Executive Director Kids & Adult Children Para Cuidadores Living with MBC Home Page More Resources For Spouses Hello Moms, Dads, Children, and Loved Ones. Surviving a Child's Diagnosis Surviving a Spouse's Diagnosis Surviving a Parent's Diagnosis Hear Their Stories Subscribe to our Newsletter First Name Last Name Email City Submit Thanks for subscribing! State

El ejercicio es Vida Cuida tu cuerpo 1 2 3 PILATES CON ANTONINA En esta clase, experimentarás una fusión de ejercicios de Pilates que te ayudarán a fortalecer y tonificar tus músculos, mejorar tu flexibilidad y postura, y aumentar tu resistencia. 4 5 6 Próxima clase en vivo 2 de Octubre RSVP Introducción al YOGA El yoga es una práctica que conecta el cuerpo, la respiración y la mente. Utiliza posturas físicas, ejercicios de respiración y meditación para mejorar la salud en general. Prepara tu mat y acompañanos en esta clase de yoga con Flori quien nos enseñara ciertos movimientos y sus beneficios a nivel energético, físico, mental y emocional. Clase en vivo 27 de Septiembre RSVP

Salud Física Salud Mental Arteterapia Podcast More Cáncer de mama 101 Descubre la importancia de la prevención y el diagnóstico temprano del cáncer de mama, una enfermedad que afecta a millones de mujeres en todo el mundo. En los siguientes artículos, exploramos los factores de riesgo, los signos y síntomas, así como las últimas innovaciones en tratamientos y tecnologías médicas. Obtén información crucial sobre cómo realizar autoexámenes, la importancia de las mamografías y las opciones de tratamiento disponibles. Conoce historias inspiradoras de supervivientes y accede a recursos valiosos que te ayudarán a entender y afrontar esta enfermedad de manera informada. ¡Empodérate con conocimiento y únete a la lucha contra el cáncer de mama! Salud de los Senos Entender la salud de tus senos es el primer paso para ser consciente de tus senos y conocer tu cuerpo para que puedas defenderte de forma proactiva cuando sientas que algo no está bien. Leer ¿Qué es el cáncer de mama? El cáncer de mama es un crecimiento incontrolado de las células mamarias. Para entender mejor el cáncer de mama, ayuda comprender cómo puede desarrollarse cualquier cáncer. Leer Síntomas del Cáncer de Mama Detectar el cáncer de mama lo antes posible ofrece más posibilidades de éxito en el tratamiento. Pero saber qué buscar no sustituye a las mamografías y otras pruebas de detección periódicas. Leer Cáncer de mama e intimidad Muchas mujeres, aunque no todas, encuentran que el tratamiento del cáncer de mama, es decir, la cirugía, la radiación, la quimioterapia, la terapia hormonal que elimina los estrógenos, dificulta gravemente las relaciones sexuales íntimas. Leer Densidad Mamaria El tejido mamario denso dificulta que los radiólogos vean el cáncer. En las mamografías, el tejido mamario denso se ve blanco, y las masas o tumores mamarios también se ven blancos. Leer Reconstrucción Mamaria La cirugía reconstructiva puede no solo restaurar la forma física, sino también empoderar emocionalmente a las mujeres en su viaje hacia la recuperación, explora sobre las opciones avanzadas de reconstrucción. Leer Cáncer de mama y genética Exploremos cómo los factores genéticos pueden aumentar el riesgo de desarrollar esta enfermedad y encuentra información clave sobre pruebas genéticas que pueden ayudar a identificar predisposiciones hereditarias. Leer ¿Qué es el sistema linfático? El sistema linfático desempeña un papel fundamental en la propagación y detección temprana del cáncer de mama, así como en la planificación de tratamientos efectivos Leer Radiación y Cáncer de Mama La radioterapia juega un papel fundamental en el tratamiento del cáncer de mama, siendo una opción terapéutica clave para muchas mujeres. Descubre cómo la radioterapia se utiliza para dirigirse específicamente a las células cancerosas, minimizando el impacto en los tejidos circundantes. Leer Factores de riesgo del cáncer de mama Exploramos cómo diversos elementos, como antecedentes familiares, edad y ciertos factores hormonales, pueden influir en la probabilidad de desarrollar cáncer de mama. Leer Estoy recién diagnosticado ¿Ahora Qué? Lo que te trae a este sitio web es muy probablemente un diagnóstico de cáncer de mama. Tal vez encontraste un bulto, notaste una hinchazón o experimentas dolor; tal vez estas esperando los resultados de las pruebas; o acabas de escuchar las palabras del médico que te han diagnosticado con cáncer de mama; o tal vez estás experimentando una recurrencia. Sea cual sea el motivo, quiero que sepas que recibirás apoyo y que nuestra comunidad de Sobrevivientes del Cáncer de Mama (Después de un Diagnóstico) está aquí para ayudarte. ¿Qué Hacemos? Un diagnóstico de cáncer de mama trastorna nuestras vidas y nos sumerge en un torbellino de citas médicas, seguimientos, pruebas, exploraciones y demás. Todos y cada uno de nosotros tenemos experiencias únicas, y lo que nuestra plataforma y comunidad SBC proporciona es educación, apoyo y recursos para ti como complemento a tu atención médica. No somos profesionales de la medicina, ni ofrecemos asesoramiento médico. Pero lo que sí ofrecemos es contenido, historias y comunidad cuando más lo necesitas. Lo que quiero decir con esto es que eres bienvenido a sumergirte en absolutamente todo lo que ofrecemos hoy, o, puedes tomar algunos enfoques para obtener la información y el apoyo cuando te sientas listo para ello. Hemos enumerado algunos enlaces y recursos para ayudarte a empezar y, con suerte, hacer las cosas un poco menos abrumadoras. Preguntas para tu radioterapeuta Descargar PDF Preguntas para tu Cirujano Descargr PDF Preguntas para tu Oncólogo Sabemos que tanta nueva información nos puede sobrecargar y aturdir en nuestras citas. Te comparto algunas preguntas que podrías hacerle a tu médico oncólogo. Descargar PDF

! Attend an Event ! Articles Email dleroy@survivingbreastcancer.org with your background, interests, and class offerings. Interested in Becoming a Movement Monday Instructor? Check back soon Once posts are published, you’ll see them here. Movement Mondays Creative and expressive movement, in the form of mind, body, and spirit exploration, holds the power to heal. Survivingbreastcancer.org offers free, monthly, online classes in restorative yoga, yoga for breast cancer, and Zumba. Enjoy weekly guided meditation, breathwork, and other mindfulness practices, as well as monthly expressive writing and art therapy workshops. All are welcome, including caregivers and supporters of those diagnosed. Move your body and mind with us every Monday!

Las asociaciones Hacen Posible Que todos nosotros Florezcamos El cáncer de mama es un problema 'malvado'. Los grandes problemas son desafíos con muchos factores interdependientes que los hacen parecer imposibles de resolver. Resolver problemas complicados requiere una comprensión profunda de las partes interesadas involucradas y un enfoque innovador. Los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible (ODS) de las Naciones Unidas apuntan a una reducción de un tercio en la mortalidad por enfermedades no transmisibles (ENT) entre los años 2015 y 2030. El cáncer representa el 22 % de las muertes por ENT, y el cáncer de mama es la principal causa mundial de mortalidad femenina. mortalidad por cáncer, a pesar de su alta supervivencia. Dada la carga social y económica del cáncer, reducir la carga mundial de cáncer y ENT es un requisito previo para abordar la inequidad social y económica, estimular el crecimiento económico y acelerar el desarrollo sostenible. Desarrollemos juntos soluciones perversas para resolver algunos de los problemas más desafiantes del mundo. Nuestros socios Conviértete en socio, Primeros pasos Explora las muchas formas en que puedes asociarte con Survivingbreastcancer.org a través de alianzas sin fines de lucro para oportunidades de marketing relacionadas con causas. Así como ningún tumor o diagnóstico es igual, tampoco lo son las relaciones personales que desarrollamos con nuestros asociados.

Breast Density Are You Breast Dense Aware? What Is Breast Density Dense breast tissue makes it harder for radiologists to see cancer. On mammograms, dense breast tissue looks white, and breast masses or tumors also look white. So, the dense tissue can hide tumors. In contrast, fatty tissue looks almost black. On a black background it’s easy to see a tumor that looks white. So, mammograms can be less accurate in women with dense breasts. Survivingbreastcancer.org acknowledges that the above video is sited from our friends at beingdense.com (@Breastdense). The video may not be reproduced without Beingdense.com's permission. The FDA has announced important new steps to modernize breast cancer screening and help empower patients with information when they are considering important decisions regarding their breast health care. Not all U.S. states are required to notify their patience as to whether or not they have dense breast. Is your state one of them? View Data What is breast density and how does it affect screenings? Watch Now How to advocate for additional screenings Watch Now Why is Understanding Breast Density Important? Having dense breast tissue might increase your risk of getting breast cancer. Women who have dense breast tissue have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer compared to women with less dense breast tissue. It’s unclear at this time why dense breast tissue is linked to breast cancer risk. We know there are many risk factors for breast cancer – starting menstrual periods early, late menopause, first pregnancy after age 30, family members with breast cancer – just to name a few. The 2 most important risk factors are being a woman and getting older. Women who have a strong family history of breast cancer or the breast cancer genes (BRCA1 or BRCA2) are at high risk for breast cancer. Women at high risk should have MRIs each year along with their mammograms. Women with dense breast tissue are at moderate risk for breast cancer. MRIs are not recommended for women at moderate risk for breast cancer based on what’s known today. What is Dense Breast Tissue? Breasts are made up of lobules, ducts, and fatty and fibrous connective tissue. • Lobules produce milk and are often called “glandular tissue.” • Ducts are the tiny tubes that carry milk from the lobules to the nipple. • Fibrous tissue and fat give breasts their size and shape and hold the other tissues in place. Your breasts will be seen as dense if you have a lot of fibrous or glandular tissue and not much fat in the breasts. Some women have more dense breast tissue than others. For most women, breasts become less dense with age. But in some women, there’s little change. Breast density is very common, and is not abnormal. How do I know if I have Dense Breasts? Breast density is seen only on mammograms. Some women think that because their breasts are firm, they are dense. But breast density isn’t based on how your breasts feel. It’s not related to breast size or firmness. Radiologists are the doctors who “read” x-rays like mammograms. They check your mammogram for abnormal areas, and also look at breast density. There are 4 categories of breast density. They go from almost all fatty tissue to extremely dense tissue with very little fat. The radiologist decides which of the 4 categories best describes how dense your breasts are. Some mammogram reports sent to women mention breast density. At one time, doctors assigned a number to the density category, but it’s now worded in a way that’s easier to understand. Women whose mammograms show anything more than scattered areas of dense tissue may be told that they have “dense breasts.” Breasts are almost all fatty tissue. There are scattered areas of dense More of the breast is made of dense glandular and fibrous tissue. glandular and fibrous tissue. This can make it hard to see small tumors in or around the dense tissue. Breasts are extremely dense, which makes it hard to see tumors in the tissue. Why is Breast Density Important? Having dense breast tissue might increase your risk of getting breast cancer. Women who have dense breast tissue have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer compared to women with less dense breast tissue. It’s unclear at this time why dense breast tissue is linked to breast cancer risk. We know there are many risk factors for breast cancer – starting menstrual periods early, late menopause, first pregnancy after age 30, family members with breast cancer – just to name a few. The 2 most important risk factors are being a woman and getting older. Women who have a strong family history of breast cancer or the breast cancer genes (BRCA1 or BRCA2) are at high risk for breast cancer. Women at high risk should have MRIs each year along with their mammograms. Women with dense breast tissue are at moderate risk for breast cancer. MRIs are not recommended for women at moderate risk for breast cancer based on what’s known today. If I Have Dense Breasts, Do I Still Need a Mammogram? Yes. Most breast cancers can be seen on a mammogram even in women who have dense breast tissue. So, it’s still important to get regular mammograms. Mammograms can help save women’s lives. Even with a normal mammogram report, a woman should know how her breasts normally look and feel. Anytime there’s a change, she should report it to her health care provider right away. What should I do if I have dense breast tissue? If your mammogram report says that you have dense breast tissue, talk with your provider about what that means for you. Be sure that your doctor or nurse knows your medical history and whether there’s anything in your history that increases your risk for getting breast cancer. Any woman who’s already in a high-risk group (based on gene mutations, a strong family history of breast cancer, or other factors) should have an MRI along with her yearly mammogram.

Sí, disfrutamos reunirnos y hablar sobre el cáncer de mama, compartir nuestras historias y las pruebas y tribulaciones, pero nuestra comunidad es mucho más que un "grupo de apoyo para el cáncer de mama". Forjamos lazos que se extienden mucho más allá de nuestro diagnóstico. ¡Nos reímos, compartimos experiencias y al final del día ofrecemos apoyo! ​ ¿Has pensado que a veces solo quieres reunirte y pasar el rato con otras personas que lo entienden? ¡Estás en el lugar correcto! El segundo y cuarto martes del mes por la noche, despuesdeundiagnostico.org organiza nuestra reunión del Grupo de Apoyo Sí, disfrutamos reunirnos y hablar sobre el cáncer de mama, compartir nuestras historias y las pruebas y tribulaciones, pero nuestra comunidad es mucho más que un "grupo de apoyo para el cáncer de mama". Forjamos lazos que se extienden mucho más allá de nuestro diagnóstico. ¡Nos reímos, compartimos experiencias y al final del día ofrecemos apoyo! Si estás buscando una reunión de "ven como eres", "sin agenda", ¡este es el lugar! Organizamos esta cita para ti, así que cuando estés listo, ¡estaremos aquí para ayudarte! Nuestra cita del 3er martes del mes es para todas las etapas. Consulta el programa a continuación para obtener detalles específicos y confirmar su asistencia. RSVP Inscríbete a continuación - ¡Nos vemos pronto! Grupo de Apoyo Después un Diagnóstico Grupo de Apoyo Grupo de Apoyo Grupo de Apoyo Grupo de Apoyo Investing in Your Future Únete a nuestro grupo de apoyo emocional dirigido por una experimentada psicóloga para recibir el apoyo necesario mientras enfrentas el desafío del cáncer. El diagnóstico de cáncer puede traer consigo una carga emocional abrumadora, y estamos aquí para ayudarte a transitar este camino. ÚNETE Brenda Coronado., AR Mi Testimonio Este evento me ayuda muchísimo a ir sobrellevando cada etapa de mi tratamiento. Cuando empezamos estaba en Quimioterapia, y ahora 5 meses después estoy en Radiación. En la última llamada el grupo me compartió información sobre que usaron, qué esperar de la radiación. Es muy lindo sentir el apoyo de la comunidad. Thank you for last night! I was so happy to celebrate the start of 2020 with such a dynamic and friendly group of women. The conversation transcended even beyond breast cancer stories, thus creating even stronger connections.” Lourdes Heras., AZ Mi Testimonio Te invitamos a ser parte de este gran apoyo indispensable, Aquí realmente nos entendemos. Juntos compartimos las vivencias que solamente pueden surgir de experiencias propias, a través de un diagnóstico de cáncer de mama. En cada uno de nosotros tenemos ese hombro en el cual te puedes recargar, ese oído el cual en verdad te entenderá, y esa conexión necesaria, que brinda beneficios a través de compartir nuestras experiencias durante este proceso. Thank you for last night! I was so happy to celebrate the start of 2020 with such a dynamic and friendly group of women. The conversation transcended even beyond breast cancer stories, thus creating even stronger connections.”

Acerca de Surviving Breast Cancer SU-PER-VI-VIEN-TE Si has sido diagnosticado con cáncer de mama. ¡Eres un Superviviente! Nuestra Historia Surviving Breast Cancer tiene sus raíces en Boston, MA con el fin de llenar un vacío en cuanto al apoyo, educación y recursos sobre cáncer de mama, fue fundado por una joven mujer en el 2017, Surviving Breast Cancer sirve de apoyo a aquellos diagnosticados, sus cuidadores y familias a nivel global. Aprovechando la tecnología y rompiendo las barreras para acceder a la información, Surviving Breast Cancer pone en primer lugar a las personas, escucha sus necesidades y crea programas, servicios, y contenido educativo basado en las necesidades de la comunidad de sobrevivientes con cáncer de mama. Seguimos creciendo y evolucionando constantemente ¡Amamos lo que hacemos por nuestra comunidad cada día! Nuestro enfoque SBC es una plataforma educativa y comunidad virtual que ofrece apoyo y soporte a los pacientes y sus familias en la etapa en la que se encuentren tras el diagnóstico de cáncer. Combinamos la investigación médica basada en la evidencia con las experiencias personales vividas por las personas a las que servimos. Desde las estrategias de reducción del riesgo y la prevención, hasta el tratamiento, la supervivencia, la vida con un diagnóstico terminal, la navegación por el final de la vida, y más allá, Surviving Breast Cancer está aquí para usted en cada paso del camino. SBC es una plataforma educativa y comunidad virtual que ofrece apoyo y soporte a los pacientes y sus familias en la etapa en la que se encuentren tras el diagnóstico de cáncer. Combinamos la investigación médica comprobable con las experiencias personales vividas por las personas a las que servimos. Desde las estrategias de reducción del riesgo y la prevención, hasta el tratamiento, la supervivencia, la vida con un diagnóstico terminal, transitar por el final de la vida, y más allá, Surviving Breast Cancer está aquí para ti en cada paso. Nuestros valores Creemos en la Colaboración Cuidamos a nuestra Comunidad Colaboramos con Asociaciones que Aportan Valor y Generan Impacto Lideramos con integridad Servimos con Compasión y Empatía Las Personas Primero Tratamos a todos con Dignidad y Respeto Estamos a la vanguardia A quién servimos El cáncer de mama no solo afecta a la paciente; afecta a todos a su alrededor. Es por eso que desarrollamos programas, servicios y educación integrales para satisfacer las necesidades de: Los diagnosticados con cáncer de mama Las que viven con cáncer de mama metastásico Cónyuges, familias e hijos que cuidan a un ser querido diagnosticado con cáncer de mama Cónyuges, familias e hijos que han perdido a un ser querido por cáncer de mama Empoderar a las personas diagnosticadas con cáncer de mama y a sus familias desde el primer día y durante el resto del proceso. Nuestra Misión Conoce a nuestro equipo, socios y colaboradores SBC se asocia con defensores de pacientes, oncólogos médicos, médicos y expertos en el campo, así como con corporaciones y organizaciones, para ofrecer la mejor educación, apoyo y recursos comunitarios para que podamos ejecutar nuestra misión. Conoce a nuestros socios Aprende sobre nuestro colaboradores Conoce nuestro equipo Salud Física Salud Mental Arteterapia Podcast More Download the App / Subscribe For Those Newly Diagnosed / For Those Living with MBC / For Families / For Caregivers

Positive affirmations for healing a cancer diagnosis can help you with pain management and qualitiy of life. Studies show the strong connection between affirmations, meditation and healing. It promotes positive thinking and can be practiced daily to help fight cancer. Después de un Diagnóstico Tue, Feb 21 Después de Un Diagnóstico Share Details Arteterapia Tue, Feb 07 Arte terapia para el Alma Share Details Multiple Dates Después de un Diagnóstico Tue, Dec 20 Virtual Share Details Multiple Dates Thursday Nights Thrivers Meetup Thu, Dec 15 Virtual Share Details Reflect and Recharge with Thomas Dooley Mon, Dec 12 Online Event Share Details Multiple Dates 15 Minute Heart Chakra Chanting with Gloria Mon, Dec 12 Online Event Share Details Multiple Dates Thursday Night Thrivers IBC Meetup Thu, Dec 08 Online Event Share Details Food & Fitness For the Cancer Survivor Tue, Dec 06 webinar Share Details Multiple Dates Thursday Nights Thrivers MBC Meetup Thu, Dec 01 Virtual Share Details Thursday Nights Thrivers MBC Meetup Thu, Dec 01 Virtual Share Details Multiple Dates 15 Minute Solar Plexus Chakra Chanting with Gloria Mon, Nov 28 Online Event Share Details Chair Yoga 4 Cancer with Tamera Mon, Nov 21 Online Event Share Details Art Therapy for Healing your Body Image with Stephanie Mon, Nov 21 Online Event Share Details Reflect and Recharge with Thomas Dooley Mon, Nov 14 Online Event Share Details Understanding Long-Term Disability Insurance Thu, Nov 10 webinar Share Details Restorative Yoga with Kate: Fall Into Meditation Mon, Nov 07 Online Event Share Details Thursday Nights Thrivers MBC Meetup Thu, Nov 03 Virtual Share Details Multiple Dates 15 Minute Sacral Chakra Chanting with Gloria Mon, Oct 31 Online Event Share Details Load More Positive Thinking, Mindfulness & Meditation For Healing Meditation On Demand Meditation. Participate in your own private haven anytime and anywhere. Live Classes Join us for virtual zoom classes with instructors who understand the cancer experience and offer a warm and welcoming community setting. Affirmations Quotes and Mantras to help you get through your day, your week, and hour by hour. Positive Thinking and the Power to Heal The power of positive thinking is so pervasive today that many doctors and nurses strongly recommend developing a positive mental attitude to prevent sickness, to help overcome medical setbacks like disease, and to assist in the recovery from surgery. There is healing power in positive thinking. But can you heal yourself just by being positive, optimistic and focused? Yes! It is believed that positive thoughts are able to prompt physiological changes in your body that strengthen your immune system, decrease pain, and provide stress relief. The “Power of Positive Thinking”, a self-help book by Norman Vincent Peale , published in the last century, first proposed the method of "Positive Thinking ". It aimed to ensure that one could achieve a permanent fruitful and optimistic attitude through constant positive influence of his/her conscious thought. This was to be accomplished through affirmations/visualizations, thus allowing one to attain higher satisfaction and quality of life. Similarly, in the book, “The Secret” by Rhonda Byrne, the Law of Attraction is explored and suggests that whatever energy, thoughts, or visualizations you put out into the universe, you will receive. So, if you send out negative vibes, or think something negative will happen, it probably will. If you send out positive vibes, positive things will be returned. Read Inspiring Articles How to Develop Positive Beliefs Start by applying the right kind of positive thinking so that you direct your subconscious mind to help heal your body and improve your life. Direct your conscious and subconscious mind to help you heal. Don’t worry. "Worry only takes the joy out of your day". Find a way to focus on the positive. What are you grateful for? Start a mental list of the things and people in your life that you are thankful for. Be optimistic. On Demand Meditation Cannot make a live class. No worries, we got you covered. You can access our on demand meditations anytime, anywhere! Let's Meditation Now Live Classes:

For women in the U.S., breast cancer death rates are higher than those for any other cancer, besides lung cancer. Besides skin cancer, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among American women. In 2019, it's estimated that about 30% of newly diagnosed cancers in women will be br Add to Cart Know the Stats Get the Facts Understand your risk. About 1 in 8 U.S. women (about 12%) will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime. In 2021, an estimated 281,550 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women in the U.S., along with 49,290 new cases of non-invasive (in situ) breast cancer. About 2,650 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in men in 2021. A man’s lifetime risk of breast cancer is about 1 in 833. About 43,600 women in the U.S. are expected to die in 2021 from breast cancer. Death rates have been steady in women under 50 since 2007, but have continued to drop in women over 50. The overall death rate from breast cancer decreased by 1% per year from 2013 to 2018. These decreases are thought to be the result of treatment advances and earlier detection through screening. Understandng Breast Cancer Breast Cancer Statistics Breast Cancer Symptoms Risk Factors Geneic Testing Breast Desnity For women in the U.S., breast cancer death rates are higher than those for any other cancer, besides lung cancer. As of January 2021, there are more than 3.8 million women with a history of breast cancer in the U.S. This includes women currently being treated and women who have finished treatment. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among American women. In 2021, it's estimated that about 30% of newly diagnosed cancers in women will be breast cancers. Breast cancer became the most common cancer globally as of 2021, accounting for 12% of all new annual cancer cases worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. In women under 45, breast cancer is more common in Black women than white women. Overall, Black women are more likely to die of breast cancer. For Asian, Hispanic, and Native-American women, the risk of developing and dying from breast cancer is lower. Ashkenazi Jewish women have a higher risk of breast cancer because of a higher rate of BRCA mutations. Breast cancer incidence rates in the U.S. began decreasing in the year 2000, after increasing for the previous two decades. They dropped by 7% from 2002 to 2003 alone. One theory is that this decrease was partially due to the reduced use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) by women after the results of a large study called the Women’s Health Initiative were published in 2002. These results suggested a connection between HRT and increased breast cancer risk. In recent years, incidence rates have increased slightly by 0.5% per year. A woman’s risk of breast cancer nearly doubles if she has a first-degree relative (mother, sister, daughter) who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Less than 15% of women who get breast cancer have a family member diagnosed with it. About 5-10% of breast cancers can be linked to known gene mutations inherited from one’s mother or father. Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are the most common. On average, women with a BRCA1 mutation have up to a 72% lifetime risk of developing breast cancer. For women with a BRCA2 mutation, the risk is 69%. Breast cancer that is positive for the BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations tends to develop more often in younger women. An increased ovarian cancer risk is also associated with these genetic mutations. In men, BRCA2 mutations are associated with a lifetime breast cancer risk of about 6.8%; BRCA1 mutations are a less frequent cause of breast cancer in men. About 85% of breast cancers occur in women who have no family history of breast cancer. These occur due to genetic mutations that happen as a result of the aging process and life in general, rather than inherited mutations. The most significant risk factors for breast cancer are sex (being a woman) and age (growing older). References American Cancer Society. How Common Is Breast Cancer? Jan. 2021. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/about/how-common-is-breast-cancer.html . American Cancer Society. Key Statistics for Breast Cancer in Men. Jan. 2021. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer-in-men/about/key-statistics.html . American Cancer Society. Cancer Facts & Figures 2021. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/content/dam/cancer-org/research/cancer-facts-and-statistics/annual-cancer-facts-and-figures/2021/cancer-facts-and-figures-2021.pdf . Reuters. Breast cancer overtakes lung as most common cancer-WHO. Feb. 2021. Available at: https://www.reuters.com/article/health-cancer-int/breast-cancer-overtakes-lung-as-most-common-cancer-who-idUSKBN2A219B . National Cancer Institute. BRCA Gene Mutations: Cancer Risk and Genetic Testing. Nov. 2020. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/genetics/brca-fact-sheet . American Cancer Society. Breast Cancer Risk Factors You Cannot Change. Sept. 2019. Available at: http://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/risk-and-prevention/breast-cancer-risk-factors-you-cannot-change.html . Breast Cancer Conversations A WEEKLY PODCAST Where we talk about all things breast cancer. Hear from medical experts, learn about the latest treatments, listen to stories from those diagnosed with breast cancer and be inspired by visionary #cancerpreneurs , advocates, and more! Salud Física Salud Mental Arteterapia Podcast More Donate App Download View More

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Recuerdos de mi diagnóstico de cáncer de mama Cuando tenía 50 años, me estaba alistando para salir, me iba a bañar y vi que mi pecho se habia pegado a mi brasier, cuando me lo quite vi que tenia un líquido de color amarillo, no le di importancia, asi que seguí bañandome, días despues me junte con unas amigas que tenian la edad de mi mamá, ella había fallecido hace 10 años por un cáncer de mama que no fue tratado a tiempo, les conté lo que me estaba pasando y que en ese momento el pezón lo tenía hundido, mis amigas me dijeron que fuera a cancerologia inmediatamente. Por Nora Herrera Guatemala Yo siempre había ido a los médicos acompañada de mi mamá y estuve posponiendo y posponiendo, pero mis amigas me insistieron y hasta se ofrecieron a acompañarme. Fue entonces que me dije a mi misma, no puede ser que tenga 50 años y no pueda ir sola al médico. Me levanté temprano al siguiente día, envié a mi hijo al colegio, me subí al bus y llegué al INCAN (Instituto de Cancerología en Guatemala) había dos largas colas que atravesaban toda la sala de espera y más allá, pregunté cuál era la cola para los pacientes que iban por primera vez pero nadie sabía nada, así que me paré detrás de la cola de la izquierda, al llegar a la enfermera que atendía esa fila me dijo que no era allí y que había hecho cola en la fila que era para pagar. Entonces me mandaron a sentar en las bancas que estaban en una sala vacía, poco a poco llegaron otras personas, de repente una enfermera nos pregunta ¿qué hacen ahí sentados? Le dijimos que era primera vez que íbamos y que nos mandaron aquí, la enfermera nos dijo que todos los doctores se habían ido al hospital, pero nos dijo que iba a conseguir alguien que nos ayudara, cuando volvimos a ver a la enfermera venía con 3 doctores jóvenes, no se si eran doctores o practicantes pero con lo nerviosa que estaba dejé que todos los demás pasaran y me quedé de último. Al fin entré en la consulta, me senté en un banquito y los 3 doctores me veían como si fuera la acusada de algún delito, les explique lo que tenia, me sentí observada y al final me dieron un pedazo de cartón, me trataron muy mal y me dijeron que me fuera. Me sentía frustrada y enojada y me dije a mi misma que en el primer basurero que encontrara iba a tirar el cartón y me iba a regresar a mi casa, mi sorpresa fue que cuando sali la misma enfermera me estaba esperando y me pregunto si me habian dicho algo, le conteste que solo me dieron un pedazo de cartón, ella me dijo venga conmigo, al llegar tenía mucho miedo, pensé que me iban a lastimar los pechos como el último doctor, sin embargo el doctor me escucho y me examinó gentilmente, me dijo que sentia algo extraño y que tenia que hacerme exámenes, para eso me tenia que meter una aguja en el pezón, la verdad no senti nada de dolor, me dijo que regresara en 8 días para recoger las pruebas. Le conté a mi hermana Marina lo que había pasado y ella se encargó de contarselo al resto de mis hermanos, mi prima llegó a mi casa y me dijo que no me preocupara que ella se iba a encargar de cuidar a Pepito si era necesario y todos estuvieron pendientes de mí. A los 8 días llegué a mi cita y el doctor me dijo que tenía cáncer de mama y que tenían que operarme al día siguiente y que me tenía que quedar de una vez para hacerme los exámenes preoperatorios, no sé en qué estadio estaba, ni qué tipo de cáncer, no me informaron de nada sino hasta después. Cuando salí de la operación nos llevaron a un cuarto con otras 6 mujeres, eramos 3 jóvenes y 3 mayores como yo, fue muy bonito porque todas teníamos muy buen sentido del humor y pasamos bromeando y riéndonos, todos mis familiares me sorprendieron al visitarme, se llenó el cuarto de mis visitas ya que también llegaron mis amigas y estuvimos platicando y riéndonos, nunca tuve miedo, porque no supe que tenía cáncer sino hasta después de la cirugía, me hicieron una mastectomía completa del lado derecho, no tengo nada allí. Al salir del hospital me dijeron que tenía que seguir llegando, estuve con radioterapia todos los días, y luego revisiones anuales. Luego de unos años me di de alta yo misma y no he vuelto a tener ninguna recaída gracias a Dios. Le debo mi vida a mis amigas que hicieron que fuera a cancerología y a esa enfermera que no recuerdo su nombre pero que sin ella yo ya no estaría aquí. Ahora estoy por cumplir 79 años, vi crecer a mi hijo y a mis sobrinos, tengo una nieta y puedo decir que he disfrutado de la vida, de las personas que me rodean y de mi misma. SurvivingBreastCancer.org lectura de 5 minutos

Breast Cancer & Intimacy Sex After Breast Cancer? In a previous blog and podcast we opined on the difficulties of maintaining relationships with loved ones, family, spouses, partners, etc. following a breast cancer diagnosis. Now we look at the adversarial effects of breast cancer towards sexual intimacy. Many, although not all, women find that breast cancer treatment, I.e. surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, estrogen eliminating hormonal therapy, severely hampers intimate sexual relations. Poor self image, physical exhaustion, painful treatment, and emotional distress all tend to weigh in negatively regarding sex drive. But overall recovery from breast cancer is partially dependent on overcoming the above referenced issues and participating in warm loving sexual acts. Sex can thus play a pivotal role. As we have mentioned in previous posts, single women who have been diagnosed worry how breast cancer will affect their relationship prospects, and also about how and when to tell those prospective lovers about their condition. The most uncomfortable stuff to talk about is probably your sex life and the changes that have taken place with your illness. You may not know what needs fixing or how to fix it, but you know things are different. Many women report having less sex than before their illness, for several reasons: • The breast cancer experience slows down your body. It takes longer to do lots of things, including getting interested in and starting and finishing sexual intercourse. • Sex may be uncomfortable or even painful if you've been thrown into sudden onset menopause. No surprise that you tend to have less sex, for now. Many women may have had little or no sex from the time of diagnosis through treatment. Most people have wild ideas about what goes on in other people's bedrooms. Give yourself a break: The carefully researched book Sex in America (by Michael, Gagnon, Laumann, and Kolata) tells us that Americans have a lot less sex than the movies, television, and the guys in the locker room would have you believe. The averages reported in that book are: • seven times a month between ages 30 and 40 • six times a month between ages 40 and 50 • five times a month between ages 50 and 60 For people over 60, the numbers continue to decline. But although you may assume that no one in their 70s and 80s has a sex life, that's just not so. Don't let the myths about other people's sex lives get in the way of what's happening in yours. And remember that there are exceptions to every pattern. If your sex life is not working the way you want it to, your doctor or nurse may be able to referee these issues with your partner and you. You can cue your doctor in advance, since he or she has most likely already touched on delicate issues with you. Maybe he or she can be the tour guide for the two of you. If your partner is there when you talk with the doctor who's managing your care, you and your partner both get a chance to air and dispel fears, and replace myths and false information with facts. Help from a pro Not all doctors and nurses are comfortable discussing sexual issues and practices. Most doctors don't routinely ask about your sex life. And patients don't usually begin to discuss their love life with a doctor who hasn't mentioned it. Nobody's talking! Someone has to break the pattern. A trained social worker, sex therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist can help you open up communication with your partner and get around to talking about intimacy and sex issues. A support group may be more helpful than you might realize. Women in these groups often share advice that extends to the bedroom, including ways to increase sexual pleasure that are explicit and specific for women who've had breast cancer. Meeting needs in other ways Most marriages have problems that don't get fixed. Marriage is a package deal, and in marriages that work, the good things outweigh the bad. But as a survivor, you may find that breast cancer highlights the problems in your marriage. Can you live with those problems? Can you enjoy your marriage even as you contemplate what's missing? Can you capture the missing pieces in other ways? Give serious thought to your needs and how to meet them. Other ways to meet your needs: • Fantasy can enrich your life. Countless women read to fill the vacuum (romance novels are enormously popular). • Join a book club, a church or synagogue, or a group that meets to discuss investments, movies, or local politics. • Do more with individual friends, like walking, shopping ("retail therapy"), or travel. • Make a bigger deal of birthdays and anniversaries. • Expand your involvement in community or spiritual activities. • Get politically active in the breast cancer movement: camaraderie for a cause close to your heart. Having a serious illness almost always takes some kind of toll on your sex life. But breast cancer can bring all thoughts of intimacy and sexuality to a screeching halt. Treatments can bring on temporary -- and sometimes permanent -- premature menopause, making intercourse painful. Chemotherapy and radiation often lead to crushing fatigue. You may want to stay in bed, but you don’t want to use it for anything but sleep. The medications you take, as well as the emotional effects of the disease, can lead to depression. And of course, from the changes wrought by surgery to the hair loss and puffiness of chemotherapy, breast cancer can have a devastating effect on your body image and your ability to feel sexy. The sexual side effects of breast cancer can linger long after treatment stops. A 2007 follow-up report on young breast cancer survivors, conducted by researchers at the University of California-Berkeley, found that some women reported persistent sexual difficulties five years after their treatment had ended. And according to the National Cancer Institute, about one out of every two women who’ve undergone breast cancer treatment experiences long-term sexual dysfunction. That’s the bad news. But the good news is there is sex after breast cancer! Sex and self-image Breast cancer changes the way you see your body. “Women sometimes feel very disconnected from their bodies when they go through this,” says Jean Carter, PhD. Carter is a licensed psychologist and the sexual health counselor for the sexual health program at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. “Your body’s been through so much and it’s worked to get well,” she says. ”But there have been sacrifices.” One thing you need to know early on is that your partner still finds you attractive and desirable. That’s rough on the days when you look in the mirror and can’t imagine ever feeling sexy again, much less looking sexy to someone else. It’s important to prepare yourself and your partner for what you’ll see. If you haven’t yet had surgery, ask your breast center if they have photographs of women after the kind of surgery you’ll undergo. Look at them with your partner and talk about what to expect. There's no denying that the sexual side effects of breast cancer can linger long after treatment is over, but there is sex after breast cancer. Lumpectomies, Mastectomies, Breast Reconstructions and Thoughts on Body Image. It was created by women in a cancer survivors’ group at Penn State. “The way your partner looks at your incision for the first time,” says Lillie Shockney, RN, “you’ll remember that forever.” Shockney is administrative director of the Johns Hopkins Breast Center and a breast cancer survivor herself. “If he has no clue what to expect and has a puzzled look on his face, the woman may interpret it as ‘He thinks I’m ugly, he thinks this is awful.’ Showing photographs can take the surprise away.” Communication is important. Talk with your partner about what you’re comfortable with, and what you’re not. “Both partners may be waiting for the other one to make the first move,” says Shockney. “She’s waiting for him to tell her he wants sex, and he’s waiting for her to touch him.” Your partner may be afraid of hurting you, or afraid that you’ll think he’s pushing you to have sex when you’re not ready simply by asking about it. If your breasts were major erogenous zones for you before surgery, you may be feeling particularly bereft after a mastectomy or even a lumpectomy . Shockney suggests taking the pressure off by exploring and discovering other areas of your body, rather than trying to “force it” in areas where you still have performance or body image issues. “For some women, the diminished arousal in areas of a newly constructed breast or scar tissue might serve as a painful reminder that their sex life has changed,” Shockney says. Instead, think of areas like shoulders, ears, and knees as new hot spots for intimate touch. If you’re still not comfortable with your new body, that’s what lingerie is for! There’s nothing wrong with getting a little help. A soft, satin nightie can be sexy and arousing. At the same time, it can help to conceal areas you’re still shy about. Or you can get even more creative. “I asked a patient to try using a feather boa to help her feel sexy, and at the same time keep her scars from being so evident. She loves it!” says Shockney. “It’s all about finding what you’re comfortable with.” Coping with changes But even as you get comfortable with the “new you” in the mirror, other parts of your body may be causing you problems in the bedroom. You may go through temporary menopause because of chemotherapy. Or if you have estrogen-receptor positive breast cancer, you may be taking hormonal therapy that can leave you in a menopausal state for years. The resulting vaginal dryness and other symptoms may make it painful to even think about having sex. “A lot of women I see are afraid to have sex,” Carter tells WebMD. “They’re really struggling. And it’s a shame, because there are wonderful, simple strategies to improve your sexual experience that, taken together, can work wonders.” Vaginal moisturizers. These aren’t lubricants, which are meant to be used during sex. Instead, they’re like the moisturizers you use on your face and hands, to benefit the tissues themselves. “They’re introduced as a suppository into the vagina adding moisture back into the vaginal space and giving it that natural elasticity,” says Carter. “It’s meant to be absorbed, and it helps the vagina to have more health and moisture for several days.” Lubricants. You definitely still want a lubricant for use during intercourse, says Carter. But lubricants should be combined with regular, ongoing use of vaginal moisturizers for best results. “If you’re feeling a rubbing or burning sensation during intercourse,” Carter says, “you don’t have enough lubrication. If it’s a stretching , painful sensation like the skin is going to split, you don’t have enough moisture.” Exercises. The classic Kegel exercises -- tightening and releasing the sphincter muscle as you do when you urinate -- that so many women use during pregnancy are also great for making intercourse easier. “If intercourse has been painful,” Carter says, “you may tighten up in anticipation of the pain. If you do Kegels right before intimacy , you fatigue the vaginal muscles and it is more open.” Vaginal dilators. A sex therapist, like Dr. Carter, can teach you how to use these dilators, which help gently stretch the vaginal tissue. Over and over again,” Carter says, “I’ve seen women who are completely hormonally deprived be able to have comfortable, enjoyable intimacy by using these strategies. A lot of the time, it’s so easy to fix. It astonishes me how often women come into my office and ask, ‘Why didn’t anyone tell me this? Shockney advises her patients to shake up their previous sexual habits. She tells them they may have been a silent player in bed before. But now she wants them to speak up. She tells them, “Say, ‘This feels good. This doesn’t feel good.’ Don’t rely on grunting for him to figure it out. That’s not the best way to communicate.” She also tells her patients, “If you’ve never watched an x-rated movie, try one -- just one. It may jump-start things, and you’ll be amazed at how active you’ll become. Or try various sex toys. So what if you never did these things before. You never had breast cancer before, either! I’ve had women come to me and say ‘I thought my sex life was great before, and then I thought I was going to lose it. But now it’s better than ever.’” What's the Difference between Diet and Nutrition? On Breast Cancer Conversations, the Podcast Listen Now