We've joined forces with Mickie Griffith Autry
Breast Health
Mickie Griffith-Autry, PhD, NP-C
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women, second to lung cancer. An estimated 192,200 women develop breast cancer, but only 42,000 die of the disease according to the National Cancer Institute (2003). Early detection and prevention have reduced the mortality from this disease.
Risk factors associated the breast cancer are numerous. Literature reports that a personal history of breast cancer, history of breast cancer in first-degree relatives, smoking, early menarche, late menopause, nulliparity, delayed childbirth, obesity, alcohol consumption, lack of exercise, high-fat-diet, exposure to radiation, and possibly hormone therapy are potential risk factors.
Breast cancer can present as a lump, a painful mass, nipple discharge, or skin dimpling. Unfortunately some cancers have no clinical presentation and are only found on routine mammograms.
Diagnosis strategies for breast conditions include physical examination, mammography, and possibly sonography. When found pharmacologic treatments include oral contraceptives, hormone therapy, steroidal preparations, and a particular classification of medications called dopamine receptor agonists. Dietary modification should also be considered. For example decreasing caffeine intake, increasing Vitamin A and E consumption and primrose oil have been suggested as breast healthy.
Arming yourself with accurate knowledge regarding breast health can help menopausal women to sort through myths and gain a solid understanding of positive lifestyle behaviors, prevent breast cancer, and promote the detection of the disease.
December: Physiology of the menstrual cycle
January: Signs and symptoms of menopause
February: Pharmaceutical treatments for menopausal symptoms
March: Lifestyle modifications and menopause
April: Osteoporosis and menopause
May: Complementary and alternative therapy for menopausal symptoms
June: Breast Health
July: Cardiovascular health and menopause
August: Sexuality and menopause
September: Nurtrition and menopause
October: Weight management and activity during menopause
November: Vaginal health and menopause
Ms. Autry earned her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Jacksonville State University, her Masters of Science degree in nursing from the University of Alabama Huntsville, and her PhD from Walden University. Her research dissertation was entitled Pelvic muscle strengthening: Impact on sexual functioning in the menopausal woman. Ms. Autry is certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, the American Nursing Credentialing Center, and the Certification Board for Urological Nurses and Associates. She has completed multiple postgraduate preceptor programs in female sexual medicine, pelvic pain, and pelvic floor dysfunction. Ms. Autry is an active member of the Society of Urological Nurse Associates, North American Menopause Society, American Urological Society, and the International Pelvic Pain Society and founder of two women's health support groups. She is a national and local speaker for multiple pharmaceutical and medical companies, has participated in clinical trial studies, and has published articles in the Society of Urological Nurse Associate and North American Menopause Society journals.
Warning: Weight loss attempts are serious life changes that require professional medical attention before starting and constant monitoring during the program. The information provided on this site, is not to be considered as medical advice, nor a substitute for compentent medical assistance during weight loss efforts. The information provided is with the implied understanding that changes in your lifestyle should be attempted only as directed by your physician and/or health-care-professional.
Melanie Calvert Benton is available for any of the following events: schools, churches, senior citizen groups, libraries, hunting clubs, women's groups, fitness centers,radio talk shows, etc. Have your media person contact us with the details.
Events over fifty miles will be subject to transportation costs payable by USPO Money or cash. Please try to book at least one month ahead of scheduled event to avoid calendar conflict.
