A malignant growth found in the tissues of
the breast, better known as breast cancer,
occurs when certain cells begin to change
abnormally and uncontrollably.
The cells that begin to change, attack
neighboring tissues, easily spreading
throughout the body via the blood stream or
lymph vessels. This process is called
metastasizing.
When these cells begin to spread, they
establish new growths at distant sites. If an
abnormal growth is found, it's quite possible
it may not be cancerous.
Benign tumors do not metastasize, and are
not cancerous. There are many unanswered
questions as to the process leading to breast
cancer.
However, there is evidence that certain
factors are involved: diet, a family history of
breast cancer, particularly in your mother,
sisters(s), or daughters, age - in general
the older you are the greater your risk, and
conditions such as fibrocystic disease all
contribute in some way to breast cancer.
It is also more common in white rather than
among black women.
The majority of breast cancer grows slowly
and if left undetected will continue to travel
in the blood stream throughout the rest of
the body. It could take a number of years
before the cancer grows into the size of
a pea, as the growth period can be a very
slow process. 
EARLY DETECTION
Early detection is the single most critical
defense against the long-term effects of
breast cancer. It can be treated successfully
when detected early and treated promptly.
The awareness of breast health is of utmost
importance. BSE is often incorrectly done
and may even lead to a false sense of
security. Some women hesitate to do BSE
because they don't know what they're
looking for.
Sunbeam has created a:
Breast Self-Exam Program
Makes testing for breast irregularities a
very simple process. It is an easy and
personalized 12-month plan encouraging
complete breast health.
Program elements include:
- BSE Reminder
- Instructional Video
- Shower Exam Card
- History Card
BSE Reminder
Electronic device is designed to be
programmed with a woman's
individual cycle, to remind her
when the optimal time is to do her
monthly exam.
- It alerts for 12 months' worth of exams and
reminds her to undergo a recommended
annual exam after one year - operates as a
women's self exam calendar.
- Manufactured with shock resistant and
waterproof materials to adhere to any
surface or environment (shower or vanity).
Instructional Video
- Informative eleven-minute instructional video, produced in
cooperation with the Y-Me
National Breast Cancer Organization and Northwestern
Memorial Hospital, one of North
America's leading medical centers.
- Information about who's at risk.
- Demonstration of various methods of how
to do a breast self exam.
- Demonstration of how to use the reminder
device.
- Information on resources and support
groups.
Shower Exam Card
Waterproof guide outlining how to perform
a breast self exam.
History Chart
Establishes a
baseline for
women to make
month-to-month
comparisons
and chart any
changes that
occur.
Early Detection