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Breast diseases, both benign and malignant, are common. Typically, young women present with more benign pathologies; however, breast malignancies can occur in young women, especially in those harboring mutations in the BRCA genes, other inherited genetic syndromes associated with increased risk of breast cancer, or familial predisposition for breast cancer. In all women aged 40 and over presenting with abnormalities of the breast, a primary breast cancer should be ruled out because it is the leading cancer among women in developed countries. [References: 55].

Since mastectomy may have a devastative effect on the patient's appearance, body image and psychology, especially in

In a phase I National Cancer Institute (NCI)-funded clinical trial, 34 breast cancer survivors, six weeks to one year post-treatment, were recruited to participate in a 6-class, 8-week long imagery stress reduction program entitled "Envision the Rhythms of Life." Patients practiced imagery during and between sessions. Outcomes for quality of life and cortisol rhythm were assessed pre- to post-intervention, in two subsets of survivors (intravenous [IV] chemotherapy, or no IV chemotherapy). Thirty survivors completed the 8-week program.

PURPOSE: Hot flashes are a significant problem for many breast cancer survivors. Hot flashes can cause discomfort, disrupted sleep, anxiety, and decreased quality of life. A well-tolerated and effective mind-body treatment for hot flashes would be of great value. On the basis of previous case studies, this study was developed to evaluate the effect of a hypnosis intervention for hot flashes.

Chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity (CIC) is a major complication found with some life-saving medications used to treat breast and other cancers. Cardiotoxicity may present immediately during treatment or years later. These patients need education, screening, preventive measures, prompt interventions, and proper follow-up. This article focuses on CIC in patients who have breast cancer, but the process of evaluation and treatment design applies to all types of cancer and organ toxicities. Comprehensive pretreatment history, examination, and testing are needed for proper diagnosis and staging.

Yoga has demonstrated benefit in healthy individuals and those with various health conditions. There are, however, few systematic studies to support the development of yoga interventions for cancer patients. Restorative yoga (RY) is a gentle type of yoga that has been described as "active relaxation." The specific aims of this pilot study were to determine the feasibility of implementing an RY intervention as a supportive therapy for women diagnosed with ovarian or breast cancer and to measure changes in self-reported fatigue, psychological distress and well-being, and quality of life.