Breast Health the Natural Way

Mitchell, a medical writer, and Gordon, a family physician who practices homeopathy, argue that about 10% of breast cancer is related to heredity and genes; the vast majority, they emphasize, stems from lifestyle and environmental factors. They shore up their argument with compelling evidence, such as the link between exercise and decreased incidence of breast cancer and the perils of alcohol and fat: ""This means you can do a lot, every day of your life, to help prevent this disease and to take control of your breast health overall."" But cancer alone is not the focus of this book; rather, the authors look at the total picture of maintaining breast health and address women's concerns about breast pain, tenderness, nipple discharge, breast-feeding and fibrocystic breast disease (""a terrible misnomer""), as well as what women, at any age, can do to prevent (or prevent recurrence of) breast cancer (special consideration is given to women who have undergone chemotherapy or radiation). Presenting a five-step plan (diet, natural supplements, making informed decisions about hormone replacement therapy, caring for the mind-body connection and breast screening), Mitchell and Gordon offer women an informed opportunity to ""make friends with their body,"" with suggestions that include the benefits of soy and ways to cope with environmental toxins. With compassion and precision, Mitchell and Gordon provide a valuable and hopeful sourcebook that will inspire readers to become active participants in determining their own breast health. (Feb. 23)