2. Definition 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 occurs in both men and women, although male breast cancer is rare. Estimated new cases and deaths from breast cancer in the United States in 2009: New cases: 192,370 (female); 1,910 (male) Deaths: 40,170 (female); 440 (male)
3. Detection Breast cancer is detected by either self-examination or by a variety of different clinical examinations. Women age 40 and older should have a screening mammogram every year. Between the ages of 20 and 39, women should have a clinical breast examination by a health professional every 3 years. After age 40, women should have a breast exam by a health professional every year. Women age 20 or older should perform a breast self-examination (BSE) every month. By doing the exam regularly, you get to know how your breasts normally feel and you can more readily detect any signs or symptoms. Women with increased risk factors should start regular mammography before the age of 40 To ensure the highest quality with the most accuracy for mammography, they should be performed by specially trained radiologists, dedicated X-ray units, and specially trained technicians to perform the studies.
9. Treatment Options Surgery Lumpectomy, Mastectomy, Lymph node dissection Chemotherapy Used in both early & late stages of Breast Cancer detection Radiation Reduces risk of Breast Cancer reoccurrence by 70% Hormonal Therapy Lowers amount of estrogen in the body & blocks action of estrogen on breast cancer cells Holistic Medicine Acupuncture, Meditation, Support Groups etc. Clinical Trials Used less than 5% in Breast Cancer patients
10. Statistics At this time there are about 2.5 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. A woman’s chance of being diagnosed with breast cancer is: From age 30-39 . . . . . . 1 out of 229 From age 40-49 . . . . . . 1 out of 68 From age 50-59 . . . . . . 1 out of 37 From age 60-69 . . . . . . 1 out of 26 From age 70-85. . . . . . .1 out of 8 Over 70% of Breast Cancer Cases occur in women with no known identifiable risk factors. Source: American Cancer Society
11. My Story My mother was diagnosed with Stage I Breast Cancer five years ago this coming May. I am proud to say that she is now 5 years cancer free! However, when I was 15 I took on the roles of the household for my older brother and grandfather. Since her diagnosis, my family & I have worked and volunteered to help raise funds and awareness to young men & women across Rhode Island. As a former Miss Teen Rhode Island International, I was honored enough to speak about this cause to an audience from all over the world at the national pageant in Chicago, IL. Also, during my reign I went on a statewide speaking tour advocating for screening and mammograms for all women.
24. WaterFire, PrOVidence, RI Family & Supporters at the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Foundation Waterfire
25. Flames of hope Every torch bearer represents a life saved or lost to breast cancer.
26. WaterFire: Flames of Hope My mom Jane & I holding torches in honor of all who have passed away from this disease and representing the hope of the future to find a cure.
27. Gloria Gemma Foundation “The Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation was established in 2004 in loving memory of our mom Gloria Gemma and in honor of her courageous fight against breast cancer. Our mission is to raise breast cancer awareness, increase breast health education and generate funding for critical breast health programs that are in desperate need of being brought to fruition. Our promise is that 100% of the net proceeds will remain right here in our local community. We recognize breast self examination as a critical tool in the fight against breast cancer. We also recognize all of the breast health care providers as essential partners in the war against this disease.” For more information or to donate to the cause please visit the Gloria Gemma website. Click here for Information! Gloria Gemma Site
28. Thank you For further information on getting involved Please email me at: ariannanicola@gmail.com