The female reproductive system consists of the external and internal genital organs. Breast disorders may be noncancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant). Most are noncancerous and not life threatening. Often, they do not require treatment. In contrast, breast cancer can mean loss of a breast or of life.

Thus, for many women, breast cancer is their worst fear. However, potential problems can be detected early when women regularly examine their breasts themselves and have mammograms.

Some factors may slightly increase a woman's risk of developing the disease and these are described below.

&bullHaving had breast cancer.

&bullHaving had certain types of benign breast disease (lobular carcinoma in situ or atypical lobular hyperplasia).

&bullWomen who are taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT), or have recently taken it, have a slightly increased risk of breast cancer. Detailed information about HRT and breast cancer is in our health professionals section. Younger women who take HRT because they have had an early menopause, or have had their ovaries removed, do not have an increased risk of breast cancer until after the age of 50.

&bullTaking the contraceptive pill very slightly increases a woman's chance of developing breast cancer.

Hormonal Causes

Hormonal influences play a role in the development of breast cancer.

&bullWomen who start their periods at an early age (11 or younger) or experience a late menopause (55 or older) have a slightly higher risk of developing breast cancer. Conversely, being older at the time of the first menstrual period and early menopause tend to protect one from breast cancer.

Signs and Symptoms

According to the National Cancer Institute, breast cancer is often accompanied by the following signs and symptoms.

&bullA lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the underarm area

&bullA change in the size or shape of the breast

&bullNipple discharge or tenderness, or the nipple pulled back (inverted) into the breast

Treatment

Some studies have shown that psychotherapy can be effective in modifying endocrine and immune function, which may have an impact on prognosis and it has been reported that psychosocial intervention can prolong survival time.

Other approaches to treatment under development include immunotherapy, gene therapy and cell therapy. Studies in cell therapy include the role of vitamin D3 analogues in targeting breast cancer cells.

In the future, less invasive techniques will become more effective and widely available. Treatment is likely to become more individually-orientated and, hand in hand with the development of gentler and less destructive therapies, is coming a greater understanding of the needs of the whole patient, and of the role which can and should be played by complementary therapies.

Nutrition and Supplements

Following these nutritional tips may help reduce symptoms:

&bullTry to eliminate suspected food allergens, such as dairy (milk, cheese, and ice cream), wheat (gluten), soy, corn, preservatives and chemical food additives. Your health care provider may want to test you for food allergies.

&bullEat foods high in B-vitamins, calcium, and iron, such as almonds, beans, whole grains (if no allergy), dark leafy greens (such as spinach and kale), and sea vegetables.

&bullEat cruciferous vegetables (such as broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower).