Stay Informed: General & Breast Surgery Blogs

Decoding Genetic Predisposition: Understanding BRCA Gene Mutations

Unraveling BRCA Gene Mutations and Breast Cancer Risk

BRCA gene mutations, specifically the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, are associated with a genetic predisposition to breast cancer. These genes normally play a crucial role in repairing damaged DNA. When mutations occur, their ability to repair DNA damage becomes compromised, which can lead to the unchecked growth of abnormal cells, ultimately increasing the likelihood of cancer development.

An estimated 45% to 72% of women who carry these harmful gene mutations will develop breast cancer in their lives, compared to about 13% of the general population. Although breast cancer in men is rare, men who carry the genes have an increased risk of 1% to 10%. Hereditary breast cancer typically presents earlier in life and is likely to develop contralaterally within 20 years if it develops in one breast first.

Several factors may influence the risk, including which mutation is inherited. BRCA1 presents a slightly higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to BRCA2, but both are uncommon, comprising only 5% to 10% of all breast cancer diagnoses. Carrying either mutation is not an absolute indicator that you will develop the disease. (more…)

Early Detection and Prevention- Q&A with Dr. James Frost, MD.

We’ve all heard the saying “Early detection is the best prevention”, and it could not be truer. When it comes to breast cancer diagnosis, the earlier it is detected, the better chances the patient has for successful cancer removal and cure.

Dr. James Frost is a board-certified general surgeon with a special interest in treating patients with benign and malignant breast disease. (more…)

Expert Tips and Tricks for a Great Night’s Sleep

National Sleep Awareness Week is March 13th through 19th. Sleep health is an important topic that is often overlooked. When you don’t get enough sleep your mental and physical health can suffer immensely. Here are some tips and tricks from our surgeons to ensure you get the best sleep possible! Establish a sleep routine. “Go to bed the same time each night and get up the same time each morning,” says Dr. Anjeanette Brown, “Getting 7-8 hours of sleep per… Read More

Breast Cancer in Men: What You Need to Know

When thinking about breast cancer, one doesn’t typically think of men being diagnosed with it. Although it is not nearly as common as it is in women, it something that undoubtedly deserves awareness. February 4th is World Cancer Day, and our team of surgeons would like to shed light on breast cancer in men and what you should be aware of. Key Facts about Male Breast Cancer: About 1% of all breast cancer diagnoses are in men. There are around… Read More

Empowering Your Health on National Family Health History Day

November 25th, which is Thanksgiving Day this year, is also National Family Health History Day. Knowing your family health history is very important and allows you to take the proactive measures needed for your personal health. When it come to breast health, this is especially true when it comes to any genetic mutations. Our surgeons implore you on this day and every day, to become more aware of your family history and educate yourself on preventative measures should you have… Read More

Exploring Intimacy Changes Post-Breast Cancer

Many women find that breast cancer diagnosis and treatment seriously disrupts their sexual lives. First, there are the most obvious issues — the physical changes, exhaustion, nausea and pain from treatment, self-image, empty energy reserves, and the emotional chaos from the diagnosis itself. Cancer treatment can dampen your libido, make sex painful (or impossible), change your ability to orgasm and even render your private parts less sensitive. Chemotherapy and radiation can damage the mucous membranes in your mouth, nose, eyes,… Read More

Breastfeeding and Breast Cancer Survivors

Breastfeeding is one of the best ways a mother and her newborn can strengthen their emotional connection, while also providing her infant with essential nutrients for development. While not all mothers chose to breastfeed, the process of nursing is a topic that brings on a lot of questions to new mothers, especially those who are breast cancer survivors. The ability to breastfeed depends on a number of factors, including milk production, the milk ducts, and the nipple/areola. Chemotherapy and other Long-term Medications Patients diagnosed with… Read More

Understanding Breast Cancer in Men

When you think of breast cancer, what comes to mind? Many people picture women, sometimes wearing pink, or a pink ribbon. Although breast cancer very commonly seen in women, men can also develop breast cancer and it’s important to raise awareness and support men breast cancer thrivers or survivors as well. The following are key facts about breast cancer in men: The ratio of male-to-female breast cancer diagnoses is 1 man to every 120 women. Male breast cancer rates are… Read More

June is National Hernia Awareness Month

Hernias are extremely common, affecting millions of Americans each year. However, only a portion of those suffering from hernias actually seek treatment. National Hernia Awareness Month aims to raise awareness about hernias and the effective treatment options that are available. Dr. Desiree D’Angelo and Dr. Ann Chuang, answered some frequently asked questions about hernias and discuss their responses in the below video. What is a hernia? A hernia is known as “a hole in the wall.” It occurs when there… Read More

Hernia Repair 101: Understanding Hernias and Treatment

A hernia is best explained as “a hole in the wall.” It occurs when there is a defect or “hole” in the strength layer of your abdominal wall, which is called the fascia. There are several different types of hernias and each must be treated accordingly. Where do hernias typically occur? A hernia most commonly occurs within the torso, between the chest and hips, often occurring in the groin or belly button. Sometimes, the underlying fat or an internal organ… Read More