Description
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among American women today. In fact, it is THE leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women between the ages of 15 and 54. It is estimated that 60% or more of women's cancers are related to nutritional factors. Other estimates are that 50 to 95 % of all cancers are caused by the environment and diet. There are several different types of breast cancer. In situ carcinoma is a type of cancer that is contained within the breast duct and does not invade adjacent, healthy breast tissue. More than 15% of all breast cancers diagnosed in the US are of this type. This number increases, however, in younger age groups. Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) accounts for 92% of diagnosed breast cancers in women between the ages of 30 and 39. This number drops to 43% of diagnosed breast cancers in women aged 40 to 49 years. This type of cancer forms a palpable lump and occurs in both pre- and post-menopausal women. It is usually localized, and because of this, can be completely removed surgically. If not treated, this type of cancer is likely to develop into an invasive type. Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS), also known as lobular neoplasia, occurs most often in post-menopausal women. This type is usually not palpable. Between 25 and 35% of women with this type of cancer develop invasive cancer, sometimes after a latency period of up to 40 years. Invasive ductal and lobular tumours account for almost 90% of all histologic types of invasive cancer.
Symptoms and Signs: If you notice a lump or thickening in your breast tissue, have it checked out as soon as you can. Most of the time it is just fibrocytic changes that occur in your breasts and are of no real concern. Other symptoms include a change in the skin of the breast, such as dimpling or puckering, retraction of the nipple, or discharge from the nipple. There may also be redness or swelling, and your lymph nodes located in the armpits may be enlarged. Chronic fatigue often occurs with rapidly progressing cancers of any type.
Causes: Cancers of all types are caused by mutations in cellular DNA, changing the way the cell grows, multiplies, and behaves. These mutations can be caused by free-radicals in the body and the enviroment. Fats are particularly prone to free-radical damage, and breasts are comprised of 70 to 90 % fat on average. (See the section entitled "Cancer"). There are a number of risk factors for the development of breast cancer. If you are a woman, you have a greater risk of developing breast cancer. This may sound odd or obvious, but men can develop breast cancer as well, although it occurs much more infrequently in men. Your risk increases with age as well. Some people may be genetically predispositioned to developing breast cancer. If you have a parent, sibling, or child with breast cancer, your risk increases two to three-fold. If two or more of such relatives have breast cancer, your risk increases to five to six times the norm. Your risk increases only slightly if you have a more distant relative with breast cancer. There has also been the discovery of two breast cancer genes, BRCA1 and BRCA 2. Five to ten percent of women with breast cancer carry one of these genes. Women with the BRCA1 gene also have and increased risk of developing ovarian cancer. It has also been observed that if a man carries the BRCA 2 gene, he too has an increased risk of developing breast cancer. Women who have a history of invasive or in situ breast cancer are at an increased risk, as are women who's period began before the age of 12, women whose menopause began later in life, and people with radiation exposure before the age of 30. Women whose first pregnancy was after the age of 30 are at an increased risk as well as women who are nulliparous. The use of oral contraceptive increases risk. If you began using them before the age of 20, your risk increases a bit more. However, this risk tends to decline during the ten year period after you stop using them. Estrogen-replacement therapy, often prescribed to post-menopausal women, increases your risk of developing breast cancer, especially after ten to twenty years of use. Also, women with naturally high levels of estrogen are at an increased risk. Estrogen-mimicing compounds in the environment can also increase the risk. These compounds are found in soft plastics (plastic wrap, bottles, etc.), pesticides, herbicides, paints, textiles, and paper products, just to name a few. The same effect DOES NOT occur with estrogen-like compounds naturally occurring in foods such as soy. This is because these types of compounds are much weaker than estrogen, and they take up space on receptor sites on cell membranes thus reducing or blocking cell proliferating effects of estrogen. Smoking is a major risk factor in the development of many cancers, including breast cancer. Severe psychological stress has also been implicated as a risk factor. Stress alters the hormone balance in the body. A poor diet, high in fat and low in fibre can also increase your risk of breast cancer.
What to Expect: Studies show that 90% of breast cancers that are found in early stages are completely curable. More than 80% of breast cancers are first discovered by the patient either by accident or while performing a breast self-exam (BSE). It is important to keep "abreast" of any changes that occur in your breasts and have them checked out by a naturopath or other health care practitioner. Many different organizations promote the routine examination of breasts using mammograms for women of different age groups. Controversy exists between these organizations as to who should be screened and how often. Even more controversy exists with the fact that mammograms use radiation to form the mammograph. Some people believe that this low level of radiation can be harmful and even cause or promote the continued growth of cancer, particularly if you are frequently exposed to it. These controversies are beyond the scope of this section. It is suggested that you find out all you can about mammograms and make a decision that is most comfortable for you.
Remedies
Amino Acids An animal experiment showed that supplementing with arginine can retard tumour growth. Supplementation with NAC may reduce toxic side effects of chemotherapy. Doses of up to 10g daily are generally considered safe, although higher doses may cause nausea or vomiting. Topical applications of NAC (as an ointment) may also reduce some of the adverse affects of radiation therapy such as skin reactions, hair loss, and may protect the mucous membranes of the eyes. Antioxidants Green tea can be taken daily to help cleanse toxins from the body. Place 2 teaspoons of green tea leaves in one cup hot (not boiling) water and steep for 3 to 4 minutes. The longer the infusion, the more bitter green tea becomes. Boiling water destroys some of the beneficial elements of green tea. Allow the water to stop boiling before adding the leaves. Use a ceramic, glass, or earthenware mug. Drink 1 to 2 cups daily Selenium is also a powerful antioxidant (see Minerals, below). Vitamins A, C, and E all contain antioxidant properties (see Vitamins, below). Foods Substances called phytoestrogens seem to help prevent breast cancers. Phytoestrogens have a structure similar to estrogen produced by the body. Phytoestrogens are found in abundance in soy and bean sprouts, and are also found in somewhat smaller quantities in other beans. Try to include beans and bean products like tofu in your diet. Eat them a few times a week. It has been demonstrated in several studies that an increase in the consumption of fruits and vegetables leads to a decrease in the risk of all major types of cancer. Reishi mushroom has been shown to neutralize the toxins secreted from cancer tissue. It can also strengthening white blood cells and increasing their count. Reishi mushroom can also reduce or prevent the side effects associated with chemotherapy and radiation. Food Supplements Some studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may inhibit the development of breast cancer. You can obtain omega 3's from flaxseed/linseed oil, hemp seed oil, pumpkin seed oil, borage seed oil, and evening primrose oil, fish, eggs, and walnuts. If using liquid form, take two tablespoons daily. If using flaxseed oil capsules, take 2 to 3 capsules daily, in the morning. If using evening primrose oil capsules take 1 500mg capsule daily, in the morning Herbs Chaparral supplementation is suggested as it protects against the formation of tumours and cancer cells. Use 1 teaspoon of herb to 1 cup of water. Infuse for 10 minutes and take up to 3 times daily. If using a tincture, take 10 to 20 drops in ¼ cup of water 3 times daily Echinacea can be used to stimulate the immune system. If using a tincture, take 20 to 40 drops in a glass of water three times daily. If using a supplement, take 300mg powdered extract three times daily. If preparing a tea/decoction, bring 2 teaspoons echinacea root and 1 cup of water to a boil. Simmer 15 minutes. Drink up to 3 cups a day. The taste may be initially sweet, then bitter. Garlic's has been shown to inhibit tumour growth. This versatile herb also helps lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels and has antioxidant properties, too. Add it to your favourite meal and enjoy the numerous benefits. If you prefer to go "sans aroma", you may also take odourless garlic capsules. If eating whole cloves, take 2 to 4 daily. If using capsules, take 600 to 1,200mg once or twice daily with meals. If using a tincture, take 2 to 4mL three times daily. Milk thistle contains silymarin, a powerful antioxidant that can inhibit the replication of cancer cells. Take 280 to 600mg daily for acute situations or when treating specific ailments. If taking an infusion, take 20 to 30 drops 3 times daily Pau d'arco is beneficial for use against cancer. Bring three teaspoons of herb and four and a half cups water to a boil. Simmer for 45 minutes, cool, strain, and divide into three doses for the day. If using a tincture, take 20 to 30 drops three times daily. Lifestyle It is important to maintain a positive attitude. You are not alone. Join a support group and do things that will help keep your spirits up. Numerous studies have shown that a positive outlook can greatly improve the prognosis of many illnesses. Decrease your stress levels. Exercise, take yoga classes or get a massage. Whatever does it for you. High levels of stress have been implicated as a contributing factor to many ailments, including cancer. A healthy, organic, diet is essential as it will provide your body with the nutrients needed to function properly. Eat ample servings of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and pure water. Reduce the amount of fat in your diet. A high fat diet can increase your risk of developing cancer, particularly if you are post-menopausal. Obesity is also considered a risk factor for the development of cancer. This has been proven time and time again. Obesity has also been shown to increase the rate of progression of malignancies. Increase the amount of fibre in your diet. A high fibre diet has been shown to help in the elimination of carcinogens and excess estrogen from the body. A vegetarian diet has also been shown to do much of the same, probably because is generally contains lower fat content, is high in fibre, and is high in carotenoids and other nutrients. An observational study of breast cancer patients showed a decreased risk of development of breast cancer with an increased consumption of green vegetables. Avoid alcohol. Many studies have shown a 40 to 60% increase in risk of developing breast cancer with moderate consumption of alcohol. Avoid sugar. A study conducted in 21 countries found that a high sucrose intake was a major risk factor for the development of breast cancer in women over the age of 45. Several other studies have come up with similar results. It is best to consume complex carbohydrates. Minerals Low levels of selenium have been associated with an increased cancer risk. This relationship has also been observed in breast cancer. Supplementation may also help to reduce tissue damage caused by chemotherapy. Eat one to two brazil nuts daily. If supplementing, take 200 to 500mcg daily. Low levels of magnesium have also been associated with an increased risk of cancer. You can supplement with 500mg daily. Low levels of iodine are associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. Zinc supplementation may also prove beneficial. Take 30 to 50mg daily. Miscellaneous Onion has been shown to inhibit tumour growth. The administration of alkoxyglycerols may cause tumour regression, may reduce injuries procured because of radiation therapy, and may reduce cancer mortality rates. Highest concentrations of alkoxyglycerols are found in mother's milk, bone marrow, and shark liver oil. Animal models have shown that supplementing with calcium-D-glucarate can help the body get rid of excess estrogen, reducing the development of tumours. Other studies are ongoing. Take 1,000 to 2,000mg daily in divided doses. Vitamins Coenzyme Q10 supplementation, at 30mg daily, may reduce cardiac toxicity caused by adriamycin therapy. Vitamin A supplementation may be beneficial. Many people with cancer have decreased levels of vitamin A in the body, likely due to malnutrition. Low levels of retinol in the blood has been associated with a diminished response to chemotherapy. Take 25,000 to 50,000 IU daily. Vitamin B supplementation is beneficial for the malnutrition that often accompanies cancer. Take 50mg daily of B-complex vitamins. Vitamin B3 should also be supplemented at 1.5 to 3g daily, and vitamin B6 at 250mg daily. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and can protect you against several types of cancer. It may also increase the survival time of people whose cancer is deemed terminal. Observational studies suggest that vitamin C reduced cancer risk in post-menopausal women. There is also substantial evidence that suggests it offers protection in breast cancer, as well as other cancers. Vitamin C may also reduce the toxicity of some chemotherapeutic agents such as adriamycin. Vitamin C supplementation may also enhance the effectiveness of radiation therapy, and reduce side effects such as pain, anorexia, weight loss and anemia. Other studies on combined nutritional supplementation suggested that although the supplementation regimen was beneficial overall, the most important factor on mean survival rates seemed to be high vitamin C intake. Take at least 12g daily. If your bowels can tolerate it, you can up the dosage. Low levels of vitamin E have been linked to breast cancer. It may also enhance the effectiveness of some of the drugs used in chemotherapy (if the drug dose can be lowered without compromising effectiveness, toxicity caused by them will decrease as well). Vitamin E may also reduce the toxic side effects of some chemotherapeutic agents (particularly doxorubicin/adriamycin). Some animal studies show that vitamin E supplementation reduced the incidence of breast tumours. There is also preliminary data suggesting that vitamin E supplementation in women with benign breast disease and mammary dysplasia, (both associated with increased risk of breast cancer) may reduce the risk. More studies need to be conducted to test this data. The suggested dose is 800 IU daily.
Actions and Remedy Listings
For More Information ...
Breast Cancer Action
55 New Montgomery Suite 323
San Francisco, California
94105 Tel.: 415.243.9301
Toll-free: 1.877.2STOPBC (1.877.278.6722)
Fax: 415.243.3996 Web: www.bcaction.org
Email: info@bcaction.org Canadian Breast Cancer Network
1000, 170 Laurier Ave. W.
Ottawa, Ontario
K1P 5V5 Tel.: 613.230.3044
Toll-free 1.800.685.8820
Fax: 613.567.2730 Web: www.cbcn.ca
Email: cbcn@cbcn.ca (ALT ADDRESS): 207 Bank St, Suite 102
Ottawa, Ontario
K2P 2N2 Tel: 613.788.3311
Fax: 613.233.1056 Breast Cancer Society of Canada National Office:
401 St. Clair Street
Point Edward, Ont. N7V 1P2 Tel.: 519.336.3710
Toll-free: 1.800.567.8767
Fax : 519.336.6846 Web: www.bcsc.ca
Email: bcsc@bcsc.ca Willow: The Ontario Breast Cancer Support and Resource Services
785 Queen Street East
Toronto, Ontario
M4M 1H5 Tel.: 416.778.5000
Toll-free: 1.888.778.3100
Fax: 416.778.8070 Web: www.willow.org
Email: willow@web.net Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation (CBCF) -- Ontario Chapter
790 Bay Street, Suite 1000
Toronto, Ontario
M5G 1N8 Tel.: 416.596.6773
Toll-free: 1.800.387.9816
Fax: 416.596.7857 Web: www.cbcf.org
Email: cbcf@cbcf.org Cancer Connection Toll-free: 1.800.263.6750 Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) -- Ontario Division
1639 Yonge Street
Toronto, Ontario
M4T 2W6 Tel.: 416.488.5400
Fax : 416.488.2872 See your phone book under Canadian Cancer Society for your local contact. Cancer Care Ontario (CCO)
620 University Avenue
Toronto, Ontario
M5G 2L7 Tel.: 416.971.9800
Fax: 416.971.6888 Web: www.cancercare.on.ca National Cancer Institute of Canada (NCIC)
10 Alcorn Avenue, Suite 200
Toronto, Ontario
M4V 3B1 Tel.: 416.961.7223
Fax: 416.961.4189 Email: ncic@cancer.ca The Breast Cancer Site Web: www.thebreastcancersite.com
See also Cancer
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For serious conditions, always seek the advice of your naturopath or other health practitioner. People taking medication should
consult with their naturopath or other health practitioner before undertaking additional regime for their ailment. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and consistency of the information contained on this website.
However, errors in copy may occur. You are advised to consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner
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"MY BEST REMEDIES" -- TERMS OF USE
All information contained on this website is for reference purposes only and all content should be treated as a resource. It is highly recommended that you consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner when undertaking self-treatment. For serious conditions, always seek the advice of your naturopath or other health practitioner. People taking medication should
consult with their naturopath or other health practitioner before undertaking additional regime for their ailment.
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and consistency of the information contained on this website. However, errors in copy may occur. You are advised to consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner
when applying the information contained on this website.
The MBR Team is not responsible or liable for any personal injury or related effects from applying the information contained on this website.
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