The word "cancer" can strike fear into everyone who has ever received such a diagnosis. It can bring about life changes for the cancer sufferer, their families and friends. Along with the physiological and psychological implications of the disease, there can also be much confusion about the various terms associated with this illness.
Breast Cancer
The National Cancer Institute defines breast cancer as cancer that forms in tissues of the breast, usually the ducts (tubes that carry milk to the nipple) and lobules (glands that make milk). It is estimated that 192,370 women and 1,910 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer during 2009 in the United States, with 40,170 women and 440 men dying from the disease.
Undifferentiated Breast Cancer
Undifferentiated, also known as anaplastic, breast cancer describes cells or tissues that are very immature and do not have specialized structures or functions. Usually more malignant than a cancer that is well differentiated, this disease can spread quickly and aggressively.
Cancer Grades
Cancer can be graded according to how closely they resemble the normal tissue from which they originate. The more they resemble normal cells, the more differentiated they are. Grade 1 is well differentiated; Grade 2 is moderately differentiated; Grade 3 is poorly differentiated; Grade 4 is undifferentiated.
Abortion
Concern has been raised about a possible link between abortion and undifferentiated breast cancer. It has been speculated that after an abortion, the body is confused and does not eliminate the undifferentiated tissue it has formed in the breasts due to the pregnancy. It has been reported this may increase the possibility for cancer to develop. The American Cancer Society cites documentation that these concerns are not true.
Prevention
One should remain vigilant about early breast cancer detection. Per the Mayo Clinic, women should begin to have yearly mammograms at ago 40 and do self-examinations on a monthly basis. A healthy lifestyle, including maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, limiting alcohol, not smoking and eating healthy foods, can also help to prevent this disease
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