According to the American Cancer Society®, breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in American women. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with it, you know that the diagnosis causes many concerns.
However, with advances in research and treatment, more women are surviving cancer. During October’s National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, great efforts are made to increase understanding about the disease. Information on early detection, cancer screenings and treatment, and breast surgery is widely available.
Yet, what happens after surgery and treatment is not as widely known. Often, the most common concern is, “Will my cancer return?”
While there is no absolute way to prevent a recurrence, the
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month Web site suggests these tips:
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Keep follow-up appointments – You’ll need to see your doctor every three to six months initially, then once a year after five years.
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Continue screenings/exams – Both mammograms and breast self-exams are important tools for detecting cancer.
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Maintain medication regimen – Prescribed hormonal treatments like tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors have lowered some women’s risk.
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Eat healthy foods – Maintaining a healthy weight and eating a low-fat, high-fiber diet of fruits, vegetables and whole grains may decrease your risk. Quitting tobacco and alcohol may also help.
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Exercise regularly – Exercise may reduce stress, nausea and pain, and increase energy, strength and the ability to maintain a healthy weight.
In addition to the stress caused by the physical aspects of breast cancer, you may become concerned about your new body image. This may be particularly true among women who have undergone mastectomies.
While some women may opt to wear breast forms or special bras following surgery, others may prefer reconstructive breast surgery. As a TRICARE beneficiary, you are eligible for post-mastectomy reconstruction following a covered mastectomy.
However, if you choose not to undergo breast reconstruction, TRICARE also will cover external surgical garments, i.e., those that are an integral part of a breast form or prosthesis, as medically necessary supplies in lieu of surgery.
If you or a loved one is diagnosed with breast cancer, it is important to remember that there is life after treatment. Maintaining a positive attitude and following your doctor’s orders are the keys to reconstructing your life.
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