If It Runs in the Family: Breast Cancer

Breast cancer currently is the leading cancer killer among women, says family practitioner Eades, and heredity is the strongest risk factor in developing this disease. In this fact-filled yet compassionate study, Eades contends that all women, especially the genetically prone, can dramatically reduce their danger by controlling environmental risk factors and receiving regular screenings. The author explains how to assess hereditary risks by creating a family genogram and stresses that premenopausal cancer has a much stronger genetic link than later-life cancer. She provides concrete advice on evaluating and modifying factors such as diet, alcohol and smoking (while noting that research results in this area often conflict). Readers will learn self-examination techniques, as well as what to expect from mammograms and xeromammograms. For those who have cancer or know someone who does, there is a lode of information on mastectomies, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, breast reconstruction and experimental treatments. Throughout, the author emphasizes the power of preventive and curative thinking. This work includes an excellent resource guide and glossary. This is one of the first books in the If It Runs in Your Family series. (Mar.)