Population Most Affected by Breast Cancer
Breast cancer represents the cancer forming in the cells of the breasts and is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer (after skin cancer) in the United States. Even though it can occur among males and females, it is far more widespread among females (Mayo Clinic Staff). Some populations have higher chances of developing breast cancer; however, being at risk does not always result in a diagnosis.
Some of the risk factors include getting older, using alcohol and tobacco excessively, being obese, having a family history of breast cancer, being frequently exposed to radiation, and undergoing postmenopausal hormone therapy (WHO). Nevertheless, around half of breast cancers develop in women with no specific risk factors other than gender and age of over forty (WHO). This means that women have increased risks of being diagnosed with breast cancer as they get older.
Drugs and Treatments Used for Breast Cancer
The rising awareness of this type of cancer and investment in research allowed for the creation of advances in treatment and diagnosis. Significantly, the rates of survival after diagnosis have increased while the number of deaths is continuously declining due to factors such as early detection, a better understanding of the disease, as well as a patient-centered approach toward treatment. The treatment of the disease varies depending on the type and severity of the disease.
Specifically, surgery may be performed to remove the tumor while radiation therapy is conducted to reduce the risks of reoccurrence. Medication such as hormonal therapy or chemotherapy kills the cells and prevents their spreading. For example, at the early stages of the disease, Tamoxifen is a pill that has been often used for reducing the chances of breast cancer reoccurrence, and it can be taken for five to ten years. Overall, the modern patient-oriented approach toward breast cancer treatment makes the management of the disease more straightforward and productive compared to the early stages of breast cancer treatment.
Works Cited
Mayo Clinic Staff. “Breast Cancer.” Mayo Clinic. 2022. Web.
WHO. “Breast Cancer.”. 2023. Web.