Who Should Get a Double Mastectomy?
Getting a preventative double mastectomy can be a huge decision, and it isn't one that should be taken lightly. Only women who are at a very high risk of breast cancer should consider this type of surgery. You may be at risk if you have one or more of the following factors:
- Mutated BRCA genes
- Previous cancer in one breast
- A family history of breast cancer
- History of lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS)
Further, doctors won't perform this type of procedure until you've gone through the proper genetic tests and counseling. Counseling is required due to the residual psychological effects of a preventative double mastectomy. Age is sometimes a factor as well, but women as young as 25 have gotten this procedure.
Did you know...
- A hearty laugh is good for the heart. Laughing can increase blood flow by 20%. Additionally, looking on the bright side can help you live longer. Studies have shown that a more optimistic outlook is linked to a healthier heart, lower blood pressure, and a lower risk for coronary artery disease.
- Have you ever told your husband something and he promptly forgets it? It's not his fault, actually. It really is because he's a man. The hippocampus (the part of the brain that deals with memory) begins to shrink with age faster in men than it does in women. That's why you can remember everything, and he can't!
- Just saying the words "thank you" can measurably improve your mood. Researchers can actually measure happiness and changes in brain structure when people practiced regular "grateful thinking." This included things like writing thank you notes, writing gratitude journal entries, mindfully counting their blessings, and thanking friends. It may be helpful in overcoming depression!
- Need a quick cool down? Try drinking some hot liquid. It's true! As counterintuitive as it may seem, the heat from hot liquids will raise your body temperature. This will heat you up and cause you to sweat. The increased perspiration will wind up helping you feel cooler as it evaporates. Try it out!
- Do you know what the strongest muscle in your body is? No, it’s not your biceps or your thighs. It’s actually in your head. The masseter is a muscle in the jaw that is used when chewing. When all of the muscles of the jaw work together, they can exert a force as strong as 200 pounds on the molars. That’s some serious pressure.