Gender Specific Cancers

I have been writing a lot recently on several major types of cancers. The first series was on lung cancer, being the leading cause of cancer for both men and women. It is also a highly preventable cancer; its major cause being smoking. Next was a series on brain tumours, which are also quite common and encompass a diverse range of diseases. They are classified based on location and cell type.

These were recently followed by two series on gender specific cancers. Breast cancer is a major and predominantly female cancer while prostate cancer is a major male cancer. However, their significance transcends mere numbers. For example, within most cultures, the female breast is considered an important feminine feature. Breast cancer may therefore carry added emotional and psychological trauma than other forms of cancer. The prospects of losing this part of ones anatomy can be difficult to accept. Thankfully, reconstructive surgery has dramatically lessened the potential disfigurement and has certainly made mastectomy an easier choice for some. If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer or you are undergoing treatment, please share your experiences by joining the discussion.

Likewise, prostate cancer can be a major challenge for men. Although not visible, the prostate gland has important reproductive functions, which carries tremendous importance for most men. In addition, surgical treatment for prostate cancer carries a risk of loss of function, which can be hard to accept. Fortunately, newer surgical techniques have been developed that aim to spare as much of the nerve supply necessary for normal sexual function. Please share your experiences with prostate cancer here.

--