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What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women. Men can also develop breast cancer, but it is rare, accounting for less than 1 percent of all cases. Breast tumors, both benign and malignant, can develop in any part of the breast. Most tumors, however, arise from the milk ducts. About one in seven adult women in the United States develops breast cancer. If detected at an early stage when the tumor has not spread to lymph nodes, about 97 percent of women are cured. The best way to detect breast cancer early is by having a mammogram and doing monthly breast self-examinations.
Supplements
Be aware that herbs and supplements are not strictly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Do not assume if a product is considered "natural" that it is harmless. Many substances do not have sound science behind them to prove their safety or how well they work. Manufacturers may not be giving you what you think you are getting, or the way the substance is processed may be unhealthy or unsafe.
With many of these products, doctors do not know enough about them. Herbs and supplements may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medications or can worsen your health conditions. Consider that some supplements, such as vitamin A, may be unsafe when taken in mega doses.
It is strongly advised that you talk to your doctor before taking any supplement or herb. If you are taking an herb or supplement and notice any unusual symptoms, stop taking the substance immediately and talk to your doctor.
| Herb or Supplement |
Claims |
Possible Interactions, Side Effects and Dangers |
What the Experts Say |
| Flaxseed |
May treat breast and colon cancer. |
Plant estrogens are not harmless. Too much can actually encourage cancer growth. It is not clear how much is too much. May increase the risk of bleeding when used with blood thinners or over-the-counter pain relievers. Can also interact with lithium, a medication for bipolar disorder. People with allergies to flaxseed, flaxseed oil or any member of the Linaceae or Linum plant families should not take flaxseed. Side effects include rash, weakness, hives, itching, paralysis, seizure, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, mania and prostate cancer |
Animal studies for breast cancer show mixed results. Studies in humans are scant and not extensive enough to recommend this treatment. However, a study of women waiting for breast cancer surgery who ate flaxseed muffins showed that they had a slower tumor growth rate. Avoid supplements. Talk to your doctor before taking this in any form. |
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External Sources
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This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.
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