The human breast is a gland that contains milk ducts, lobes, fatty tissue, and a network of lymphatic vessels. Cancerous tumors can develop in virtually any part of the breast and are most often detected when a woman feels a lump. Cancerous lumps are generally firm, never go away, and are usually pain-free. The majority of breast lumps are not cancerous, but there is no exact way to tell without a professional’s examination. A lump that seems to be growing or that does not move when it is pushed may be cancerous. However, it may also be caused by normal fibrocystic changes during the menstrual cycle. A biopsy is necessary to identify the lump. Breast cancer can also cause a yellow, bloody, or clear discharge from the nipple.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, and the second leading cause of cancer death for women in the United States. The American Cancer society estimates that 267,000 women were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003, and about 39,800 deaths occurred from this disease. The lifetime risk of developing breast cancer for American women is about one in nine. Many surveys suggest that it is the health problem that is most feared by women. However, if breast cancer is detected early, the five-year-and-beyond survival rate is at about 95 percent.

There is no single answer as to what causes breast cancer, and it is reported that about 60 percent of breast cancers develop without any known risk factors. Researchers believe that estrogen in the most likely culprit in many cases of breast cancer. Estrogen promotes cellular growth in the tissues of the breasts and reproductive organs, and cancer is a disorder of unrestrained cellular growth. Some of the risk factors for breast cancer include onset of menstruation before age nine, menopause after age fifty-five, having a first child after age forty, and having no or few children. The one thing that all of these risk factors have in common is that they result in the breasts being exposed to more estrogen for longer periods of time.

Men can also get breast cancer, but they account for less than 1 percent of breast cancer cases. While it occurs less frequently, breast cancer in men usually is diagnosed at a later, and therefore more serious stage because neither physicians or patients tend to suspect it. About 1,500 men are diagnosed with breast cancer every year in the United States, with 400 dying from it. Cure rates are generally the same for men as they are for women.

It is crucial to detect breast cancer in its earliest and most curable stage. By making healthy changes in diet and lifestyle, examining your breasts regularly, and having regular mammograms can increase your chances of avoiding or overcoming breast cancer.

The following nutrients are helpful in preventing and dealing with breast cancer: coenzyme Q10, colostrum, DMG, essential fatty acids, garlic, germanium, melatonin, a multi-mineral complex, a multi-vitamin complex, natural beta-carotene, proteolytic enzymes, selenium, shark cartilage, SOD, vitamin B complex, vitamin C with bioflavonoids, vitamin E, maitake, vitamin D3, acidophilus, kelp, l-carnitine, l-cysteine, Pycnogenol, raw glandular complex, and SAMe. Additionally, the following herbs may be beneficial: astragalus root, Echinacea, bilberry, burdock root, ginger, green tea, peppermint, red clover, black cohosh, chasteberry, red clover, turmeric, dandelion root, milk thistle, chaste tree berry, ginseng, curcumin, rosemary extract, lycopene, sulphoraphane, green tea extract, garlic, ginkgo biloba, licorice, and silymarin.

Vitamin supplements can help support the bodys nutritional needs and in so doing help the body fight cancer. Changing ones diet, exercise and vitamin supplements can help one prevent the onset of breast cancer and extend ones life span. Natural vitamins and herbs are available at your local or internet health food store at reasonable prices. Always consult your doctor before adding vitamins and herbs to your diet while on prescription medications.

*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Vitamins and herbs are not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult with your professional health care provider before changing any medication or adding Vitamins to medications.