[ PRINT ] [ Printing FAQ ] About OncoLink Editorial Board Sponsors Help See Today's OncoTip Usage Statistics Virtual Classroom Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute "Confronting Cancer Through Art" is an exhibition by people whose lives have been touched by cancer. This week we are featuring artwork by: Jacqueline Kniewasser Pontypool, Ontario Visit the Children's Art Gallery This week's artwork was donated by a pediatric cancer patient who received treatment for cancer at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

OncoLink FAQ: Prophylactic Mastectomy Last Revision Date: Sunday, 14-Feb-1999 13:54:28 EST Copyright © 1994-1999, The Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania This is a response to a question on Prophylactic Mastectomy Question: I do not as yet, have breast cancer, however, I have so many signs and symptoms I am looking for information to help me decide if I should have a mastectomy before cancer develops. Please Help!!! I can't find much at all to aid me in this decision. Ken Blank, MD, and John Han-Chih Chang, MD, OncoLink Editorial Assistants, reply: Thank you for your question. The most important thing to do at this point is to see your physician to have your signs and symptoms evaluated. Mastectomies are not usually done without an indication, such as a diagnosis of cancer, premalignant condition, or rarely if a patient has a strong family history or other genetic predisposition. Again consult your physician for a full evaluation. Please also access the following sites on breast cancer for further information: NCI/PDQ Patient Statement: Breast cancer What You Need to Know About Breast Cancer A Consumer's Guide: Early Breast Cancer Breast Health and Breast Cancer Network BCA: Frequently Asked Questions These are some of a few good sites to access breast cancer information. Focus on screening and diagnosis at these sites first, because that is where you need to direct your questions and concerns.

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