National Nursing Review : Nursing Study Resources & Health Tips

The breast cancer is the type most common cancer among women. During his life, one in nine women is likely to have cancer of the breast. Several factors play a role in the development of this cancer: family history, hormones, aging, etc.. Moreover, scientists have long suspected the lifestyle of being a major risk factor.

However, they could not identify precisely what components of lifestyle is the most influential.
For many years it was thought that a high intake of fat was one of those components that contribute most to risk of breast cancer. Now we believe instead that fat intake may play a role, but it is not the only factor, nor the most important. However, recent research indicates that a diet low in fat reduces the risk of recurrence of breast cancer.
Moreover, it appears that risk factors vary according to the hormonal changes experienced by women (premenopausal or menopausal). (more…)

The menopause is a natural process that occurs gradually in the life of a woman around the age of 50 years. This transition is marked by the cessation of menstruation and changes occurring among some, even before the end of menstruation.

Hot flashes
At menopause, many women experience hot flashes. They feel a sensation of intense heat that is sometimes accompanied by redness or sweating often followed by cold sweats. This phenomenon is caused by decreased levels of estrogen, which disrupts the “thermostat” of the body. Some women experience these gusts of 15 to 20 times per day, which can be very uncomfortable.
In the United States, 70% to 80% of postmenopausal women report having hot flashes, against only 10% to 14% of them in Japan. According to some, the diet rich in phytoestrogens Asians explain this difference. Phytoestrogens are compounds of plant origin which, when consumed in sufficient quantities, can affect the body similarly to estrogen, a sex hormone produced by the ovaries. Phytoestrogens are found in soy and its derivatives, such as tofu and soy beverages. (more…)