It's incredibly important, if you're being treated for breast cancer, to be able to get clear, accurate information from your doctor (or doctors) about your condition. I was incredibly fortunate; my doctors anticipated my questions and gave me tons of information right from the start. But I know from friends that no everyone is so lucky, so I've provided some great resources to consult for what questions to ask. Feel free to add to them. The bottom line is that preparing a list of focused questions can make the treatment process easier for you and your doctor, and will also guarantee that you get the information you need, or better evaluate if your doctor is the right choice for you.
Knowing the risk factors that contribute to breast cancer can help you evaluate the likelihood of getting the disease. In some cases, it's possible to make changes now that will improve your chances of avoiding it. Here's what researchers know about breast cancer risks:
1. Menstruating longer, having children late
2. Close relatives with breast cancer and genetic predisposition
3. Use of hormone-replacement therapy
4. Being overweight
5. Lifestyle risks: Being sedentary, exposure to secondhand smoke, and drinking alcohol
6. "Benign" breast conditions
7. Low sun exposure and lack of vitamin D
8. Low melatonin and shift work
9. A diet high in fat (especially for breast cancer survivors)
http://www.caring.com/articles/breast-cancer-risks
Hope it is informative.
As is rightly said, Healthy Diet, Exercise Keeps Mind Sharp As You Age.
This seems like an obvious thing but knowing the right questions to ask after diagnosis is an amazing place to start.
