Millions of women each year are diagnosed with breast cancer. This disease is one of the most life altering on the planet. For those that survive the mental and physical changes that they undergo is very traumatic. It is little wonder that researchers are working diligently to find a breast cancer vaccine and that women all over the world are supporting their efforts through grass root campaigns to increase governmental funding or with organizational efforts by groups like the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and the Race for the Cure.
There have been some remarkable breakthroughs in recent years. Cleveland Clinic researchers have developed a highly effective shot that prevents tumors in mice. Human trials are slated to begin soon to test their breast cancer vaccine. Other labs have developed intravenous drugs that are being tested to stop the growth and spread of breast cancer once it has been diagnosed. These early trials also appear promising in battling the disease. Groups all over the nation and, indeed, around the world are tackling the solution from many different angles. A breakthrough will come and tens of thousands of women’s lives will be spared annually in the United States alone.
Until the day comes that victory over breast cancer is declared, women should have annual mammograms if they are in a high risk group and continue self-examinations regularly. The best method for dealing with breast cancer currently is to stop it the moment it starts and this means catching it in the earliest stages possible. The survival rate is improving all the time, but the disease itself shows no sign of slowly down. Hopefully someday, breast forms and prosthesis bras will be considered reminders from a bygone era, but for now they are necessary tools for many women hit by this dreadful disease.