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o Some of them are: • Alfalfa • Ginko • Ginseng • Black Cohosh • Flax Seed • Soy • Chaste berry • DHEA • Dong Quai • Fennel • Genestein • Hops • Kudzu • Wild Yam • Licorice Riley said that studies at Duke University found that some non-FDAapproved supplements not only vary in chemical content from bottle to bottle from the manufacturer, but also from pill to pill within a bottle. “It’s not like a prescription drug or over-the-counter drug that’s approved by the FDA. These so-called natural supplements are not regulated by the FDA so we’re not really sure what they do.” Often a part of breast cancer therapy, (especially ER+) includes a pill that the patient is supposed to take for five years. Riley said that after a couple of years, the compliance rate of taking those drugs falls off dramatically. “Because it’s a pill, women may think it’s less powerful than chemotherapy. But it isn’t true; it’s as powerful as chemotherapy so it’s important to take it every day as prescribed.” The Brown Cancer Center and the American Cancer Society recommend that all women age 40 and over get an annual mammogram. Riley said you should definitely get a mammogram even if you don’t feel a lump. “The whole point of the mammogram is to detect something that you can’t feel, a microscopic cancer at an early stage.” And don’t let a lack of insurance stop you from getting a mammogram. Riley said, “You can call the Brown Cancer Center and we can help you find a way to get a mammogram. Don’t be scared of not having insurance.”
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Breast Cancer Supplement
The Today’s Woman of Wellness Health advisory group talks about what not to do or say to someone with a serious illness like breast cancer. “I had ulcerative colitis, followed by infertility, and in the midst of that treatment found out that I had cervical cancer. It was hurtful to hear people say that my illness was ‘God’s will’ or that ‘others have it worse than you do’” Kristi Jedlicki Levenhagen, Case Manager Supervisor for St. John Center for Homeless Men. Two friends have experienced breast cancer.
“I remember staring at a scar on a lady at a party and wondered what it was. Then her husband mentioned she was a breast cancer survivor. I felt terrible because I think she saw me staring at it.” Gretchen Houchin, director at Nazareth Home. One friend and a friend’s mother have experienced breast cancer.
“When people say, ‘It could be worse. Keep your chin up,’ it doesn’t help. I’ve not had breast cancer but I’ve had depression and when people try to make light of things, it doesn’t make it better.” Pat Cooke, Bookkeeper and artist. Three friends survived breast cancer.
“Don’t say, ‘Let me know if you need anything,’ or ‘I’ll be there for you.’ Those words are empty and meaningless. Just do something. Run errands, provide childcare, send cards, emails or call. Go with her to the doctor or hospital. Eventually she will know you are sincere and ask for help.” Deborah Tuggle, Clinical nurse specialist at Central Baptist Hospital. A sister, five first cousins, and three close friends have experienced breast cancer. Two of them have had two episodes.
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