Are you one whose life has been touched by breast cancer epidemiology? The Greek word epidemiology loosely translated is “the study of what is on the people”. Maybe you know someone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer…your life has been touched. It’s that simple. Those who study the affects of different factors and the ways in which they change or alter our health are called epidemiologists. Why are these people so important? They are the ones who gather and present documented information concerning a certain health risk, its effects and the best approach to limiting its ability to make us sick or die. This method of research ranges from the beginning of an incident being reported and progresses to study design, collect data and analyze the developments in order to draw conclusions that support (or do not support) the final outcome. Most often, these reports are submitted to medical journals as a means of communication with others who may be interested in the findings.

Breast cancer epidemiology then, is concerned with the risk factors that make humans more susceptible, or more likely, to get breast cancer. These professionals are usually doctors or other types of physicians who have studied epidemiology in addition to their clinical background experiences. Paired with a medical degree, the study of breast cancer epidemiology can help to identify and test those who are at the largest risk for the disease. Many factors are calculated such as personal family history, diet and exercise habits, whether or not one is a smoker, etc. and tests are suggested. Beginning at around age forty, women of all nationalities should begin getting annual breast exams. This combined with regular visits to a primary care physician skilled in women’s health issues will give the best chances for early detection, which is critical to survival.

If your health care professional is familiar with the study of breast cancer epidemiology, it is a good indicator that he or she knows what risk factors are involved, how to identify and quantify the factors and will wisely educate you and suggest certain tests you should submit to in order to improve your overall care. While no one can eliminate the chances of getting breast cancer, there are certain steps you can take to reduce your risks. Making sure that you educate yourself on what risk factors may be most applicable to you, either by family history or genetics, is one way to identify, very early on, your chance of possibly developing any type of cancer, but as a woman, especially breast cancer. This type of cancer can be devastating to a woman who has to loose a part of herself in order to stay alive and well. These changes aren’t only physical, but psychological in nature and as difficult for some women to deal with as the cancer itself.

Avoiding oral contraceptive use and maintaining a diet low in saturated fats and alcohol are two immediately available solutions. Making sure that you go when you are scheduled for a cancer screening and clinical breast exams are two more. Taking the time to discuss with your doctor breast cancer epidemiology can open the door to discussions on risk reduction and treatments that will be best for you.