Breast cancer facts

  • Breast cancer affects men, too. It is less likely, according to the Irish Cancer Society, about 30 men get diagnosed with breast cancer every year. Contributing factors are age, high oestrogen levels, obesity, family history, some genetic conditions. Symptoms include a lump, nipple discharge, and/or swelling of the lymph glands under the arm. Male breast cancer is rare, but it is important to have any changes checked out!
  • If there is breast cancer in your family, you may consider genetic testing to determine if you have BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations. Your doctor will advise the best course of action based on the results. In any case, don’t forget this is only one of multiple factors for developing breast cancer!
  • Not every lump is cancer. A cyst may appear seemingly overnight. Cysts are usually benign and can be drained if necessary. Some of us have “lumpy” breasts, and it’s actually more common than you may think! It is called fibrocystic breasts, and it’s considered completely normal. Blocked milk duct feels like a hard and tender lump. You can get help and advice from your midwife or GP. That’s why self check is so important – to get to know our bodies and spot any changes. Don’t just assume it’s nothing and ignore it and don’t live in fear – contact your GP and get answers!
  • Most breast cancers are found in women who are 50 years old or older, but younger women can get breast cancer too. Monthly self checks are important for early detection, no matter what age you are.
  • Testing positive for BRCA genes does not mean you will have breast cancer. Genetic testing is important when there is a family history. But, positive results are not a diagnosis. It is used to determine a possibility, and your consultant will help you understand the situation and your best plan of action.
  • You only need to check your breasts once a month, not every day. A lot of women choose 1st of each month as it’s easier to remember, but the date is not important. Hormones tend to change the look and feel of breast tissue, so it is usually better to self check after your period, not before. Standing up, laying down, in the shower…. whatever is more comfortable for you. Regular checks mean you get to know your body and can notice anything new or different quickly.Remember, prevention is the key.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen and Vitamin D
Studies suggest that the use of sunscreen products does not cause vitamin D deficiency.
Extracts from British Journal of Dermatology:
“Exposure to ultraviolet B radiation in sunlight provides the mechanism for more than 90% of the vitamin D production in most individuals. Concern has been expressed in recent years that the widespread use of sunscreens, particularly those with high sun protection factors, may lead to a significant decrease in solar-induced previtamin D3 in the skin, resulting in a vitamin D level which is considered insufficient for protection against a wide range of diseases.”
“Previous experimental studies suggest that sunscreen can block vitamin D production in the skin but use artificially generated ultraviolet radiation with a spectral output unlike that seen in terrestrial sunlight. Nonsystematic reviews of observational studies suggest that use in real life does not cause vitamin D deficiency.”
“While the experimental studies support the theoretical risk that sunscreen use may affect vitamin D, the weight of evidence from field trials and observational studies suggests that the risk is low.”
“Therefore, concerns about vitamin D levels should not interfere with skin cancer prevention advice. Future trails should consider high sun protection factor sunscreens which are now widely recommended.”

How to choose your sunscreen product:
When it comes to SPF products, there are plenty of choices and finding the right one for you can be a daunting task. Here are a few things to consider:
– Sun Protection Factor (SPF). At the moment anything below SPF30 is considered low protection. Ideally you should be using SPF50 broad spectrum, meaning it protects against UVA and UVB. This should be stated on the package.
– Texture and colour. You may prefer to use tinted SPF, or one with added colour to help you see if you missed any area during application.
– Chemical vs Mineral.They contain different ingredients, and work in a slightly different way. Both are efficient and the choice should be made based on skin type and personal preference.
– Way of application. The most popular form is cream, it`s usually easy to apply and is absorbed quickly. There are also sticks and sprays, that are small and easy to carry in your pocket that can be used to reapply without getting your hands messy.
– Water resistant. If you are planing to be in and out of the water, consider a water resistant product. This is written on the package, and sometimes it states the amount of time it is efficient. Keep in mind that water resistant does not mean waterproof.
– Whatever product or brand you choose, the most important thing to remember is to use the highest possible SPF and reapply it throughout the day. This will help prevent skin damage that contributes to skin aging and skin cancer.

Photosensitivity

Some medications contain ingredients that may cause photosensitivity — a chemically induced change in the skin. Photosensitivity makes a person sensitive to sunlight and can cause sunburn-like symptoms, a rash or other unwanted side effects. It can be triggered by products applied to the skin or medicines taken by mouth or injected.
There are two types of photosensitivity – photoallergy and phototoxicity.
– Photoallergy is an allergic reaction of the skin and may not occur until several days after sun exposure.
– Phototoxicity, which is more common, is an irritation of the skin and can occur within a few hours of sun exposure. Both types of photosensitivity occur after exposure to ultraviolet light either natural sunlight or artificial light, such as a tanning bed.
Not all medications from the same group would cause a reaction. Not all people who take or use the medicines mentioned will have a reaction. Also, if you experience a reaction on one occasion, it does not mean that you are guaranteed to have a reaction if you use the product again. Please note the following list is not exhaustive.
Antibiotics (ciprofloxacin, doxycycline, tetracycline), Antifungals, Antihistamines, Cholesterol-lowering drugs, Diuretics, Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen), Oral contraceptives and estrogens, Phenothiazines (tranquilizers, anti-emetics), Psoralens, Retinoids (acitretin, isotretinoin), Sulfonamides, Sulfonylureas for type 2 diabetes, Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) in cosmetics.
How to reduce your risk: When outside, seek shade. Keep in mind that the sun’s rays may be stronger when reflected off water, sand and snow. Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, sunglasses, and broad-brimmed hats to limit sun exposure. Use sunscreen regularly and as directed. A broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF value of 30 or higher is recommended.
If you have questions about your medications and the possibility of a photosensitivity, talk to your health-care professional or pharmacist.

Margarita Rash

Have you heard of Margarita Rash? Or Lime Disease?
Both are common names for a skin condition called Phytophotodermatitis.
It is caused by contact with a botanical agent , followed by UV exposure. Usually happens when people squeeze limes on the beach and the juice ends up on their body. The symptoms start about 24 hours after. They include swelling, redness, itchiness, blisters and the heat and moisture tend to make it worst.
So make sure you wash your hands after squeezing or cutting limes.