Examination

With cancer being so difficult to beat, the earlier ahead we notice it in our bodies, the better our chances of survival. Diagnostic tools are used to determine if breast cancer is present. Once being diagnosed, a treatment plan usually occurs for the patient to prepare for recovery.

What is a Biopsy?

A Biopsy is “An examination of tissue removed from a living body to discover the presence, cause, or extent of a disease”. Or in other words, tissues are taken out of the body for testing once areas of tissue show to be abnormal.

“Metastatic cancer detection Interventional radiologists may use radiofrequency ablation for breast cancer patients with metastasis to the liver, endobronchial ultrasound system (EBUS) for metastasis to the lungs, or kyphoplasty for metastasis to the bone.” (Cancer Treatment Center)

There are two different imaging procedures that take place once abnormalities in the tissue are found. These imaging screenings are called ultra sound and mammograms.

The ultra sound detect any lumps in the breast and also the position of the tumor. The mammogram is transferred to a digital image for a clear view of the position of the tumor which also determines what stage the cancer is in. This is why early detection is critical.

If the mammogram does not detect or show any scar tissue or abnormalities and the patient knows something wrong, a MRI will take place to view at a higher resolution.

As a whole, make sure we are getting our ultra sounds and mammograms, regardless if a tumor is present or not. Early detection saves lives.

Stage 1 Breast Cancer

Studies show most women hear so many negative things about breast cancer, they become afraid to get checked. If there are any lumps in your breast or on your body, it is vital to get checked. The longer you wait, the worst it gets.

Breast cancer has stages. Stage 0 is super early detection. In stage 0, the patient can be treated immediately, beating the odds of going into stage 1. If stage 1 is the diagnosis, it has not spread to the lymph nodes but a small tumor is present.

Sometimes, because of the tumor being so small in stage 1, it is possible that it will not be detected at first. This is why regular checkup is important. Regular screenings allows the doctor to begin treatment to prevent the tumor from spreading.

In stage 1, the tumor is about the size of a kernel of corn, peanut or pea. “Stage IA (Stage1A): The tumor measures 2 cm or smaller about the size of a pea or shelled peanut) and has not spread outside the breast. (Cancer Treatment Center of America)

Morton Comprehensive Health services offers a Mammogram program here in North Tulsa.

Let's not mess around with our health. Even if we have no lumps, please get checked regularly.

Schedule your screening today. Fear is not what we must adhere too. The best way to beat any cancer is through early detection.

The Inspiration of Candice Nyan

Candice Nyan's last video message about early detection. Early detection saves lives

People often say I don't look like I've battled STAGE IV BREAST CANCER. I am still in the fight. I choose to stay positive. One's mindset is key when battling anything life threatening. Even if it's not life threatening...if you are going through something you have to have your mind right (believe you will get through it). You don't have to look like what you are going through. God's Grace and Favor will take care of the rest.

Do you know someone battling breast cancer? Whether you are a survivor, know someone that is a survivor or know someone that has recently been diagnosed, we want to hear from you.

"No one is ever defeated until defeat has been accepted as reality". -Napoleon Hill

Young Black Survivor's Inc.

Be on the look out and start marking your calendars! Young Black Survivors Inc. is hosting a party in rememberance of Candice Nyan and her legacy in October. More information coming soon!