Finding a breast lump Finding a breast lump (October 13, 2004)

Author offers advice for women during national Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and women everywhere are encouraged to perform breast self-examination and to get a mammogram in the interest of detecting possible cancer. But what is a woman to do when she finds a lump?

Breast health specialist Judy C. Kneece, R.N., O.C.N, provides direction for these women in her book, "Finding a Lump in Your Breast, Where to Go ... What to Do." In the book, available for borrowing from the Stanford Health Library, she answers questions such as, "What does cancer feel like?"; "How do you know if what you feel is normal?"; "Why do my breasts feel different at different times?"; "Does breast cancer occur suddenly?"

Studies show that half of all women will, at some point in their lives, find a lump or receive a questionable mammogram. Despite the fact that more than three fourths of breast lumps are not malignant, the looming specter of cancer is frightening for all involved. Kneece's book provides women with the information they need to confront breast health issues with confidence.

The book discusses breast anatomy to help women become familiar with their breasts and how they work. Careful instructions for conducting an effective breast self-exam are included. Common breast conditions, both benign and malignant, are also outlined, as are the procedures healthcare providers use to diagnose breast disease. One chapter explains biopsy reports. Risk factors, including hormone replacement therapy, diet and lifestyle, along with the special interests of women identified as being high-risk for breast cancer, are also addressed.

Kneece emphasizes the importance of partnering with a healthcare provider and gives women the tools needed to communicate effectively. She claims, "A trained woman is the most valuable tool we have against breast disease."

At the back of the book is a useful glossary of breast care terms, a compilation of other reference sources and an assortment of worksheets. These worksheets help women keep a record of breast self-examinations, record physician instructions, describe and assess breast pain and discharge and to keep track of appointments with healthcare providers.

Judy Kneece has authored three more books on the Health Library shelves: "Your Breast Treatment Handbook," "Helping Your Mate Face Breast Cancer," and "Solving the Mystery of Breast Pain." Another book at the Stanford Health Library, "Breast Health and Common Breast Problems," by Pamela Ganschow, M.D., et al, provides more clinical information on the same topic.

The Stanford Health Library has three branches: the Stanford Shopping Center, on the third floor of Stanford Hospital and in the new Stanford Cancer Center. For more information or assistance with research free of charge, contact the Health Library at (650) 725-8400.

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