According to the American Cancer Society, "breast cancer is the most common disease of women in the United States, other than skin cancer." After lung cancer, it is the leading secondary cause of cancer death in women. It is helpful to know some basic facts about the normal composition of the breast to understand breast cancer. In the past, this disease was one of the most feared forms of cancer because of its mortality rate and because complete recovery often required removal of the breast. The best way to combat this disease is to have a plan that helps you detect the disease in its early stages. Now, however, treatment options have expanded and the likelihood of a full recovery is higher than ever. Lives can be saved by raising awareness of breast cancer through education and providing mammograms to those who need them. Therefore, women can increase their chances of surviving breast cancer if they overcome their fears, undergo thorough checkups and seek appropriate treatments. Now, what is breast cancer? Breast cancer is a condition in which malignant cells form in the breast tissues. It is considered a heterogeneous disease that differs in age and even the type of cells and tumors themselves. “Evidently no woman wants to hear this diagnosis, but hearing the words “breast cancer” doesn't always mean a conclusion. It can be the launch to learn to confront, get the facts, and find hope” (ACS, 2010). Although it is predominantly found in women, men may also be at risk. It is about 100 times more common in women than in men. Here I will only talk about breast cancer in women because woman is more susceptible to this disease. Each breast contains 15 to 20 sections called lobes. Inside each lobe are several small lobules. L......middle of paper......t causes breast cancer?" American Cancer Society. Np, nd Web. January 12, 2011 ."Breast Cancer Risk Factors - National Breast Cancer Foundation ." Tennessee Breast Center, Inc. Np, nd Web. January 12, 2011. "Breast Exam." Encyclopedia of Women's Health Dordrecht: Springer Science+Business Media, 2004. Creed Web 2011 "Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer - Breast Cancer Center..." Everyday Health, Inc. Np, nd Web, Jan. 12, 2011. "New Harvard Guide to Women's Health," The. 2004. Web Reference. Jan. 21 2011.