Types of Breast Cancer
Women’s breasts are composed of lobules that produce milk, ducts that transport milk, and connective tissue. The most common types of breast cancer are invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) and invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC). Breast cancer can spread to other parts of the body through blood vessels and the lymphatic system, a process known as metastasis. In addition, there is a common type of breast tumor called ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), in which cancer cells exist only inside the ducts and have not spread to other tissues.Hu stated that in modern medicine, tumors are classified into two types: benign tumors and malignant tumors. Benign tumors usually grow locally and do not spread to other parts of the body, and in general, they do not cause significant harm to the body. Malignant tumors, on the other hand, are made up of cells that divide and proliferate uncontrollably, invading surrounding tissues and organs. These tumors are potentially life-threatening and usually require early surgical treatment.
High-Risk Groups for Breast Cancer
Hu pointed out that there are several risk factors associated with breast cancer, such as dietary habits, lifestyle, stress management, and attitude toward life. He further summarized the three groups of people that are most susceptible to developing breast cancer.1. People With Low Body Temperature
Many people like to stay in air-conditioned rooms, eat ice, drink cold beverages, or eat fruits and vegetables as their main meals. Some people do not dress warmly enough during cold weather. In addition, some individuals often sit for long periods. These bad habits can lead to a cold body temperature and poor blood circulation, and a low body temperature provides the ideal environment for cancer cells to grow.2. People Who Stay Up Late Frequently
Hu explained that individuals who stay up late are at higher risk for developing breast cancer, particularly those who consume high-calorie late-night snacks such as fried chicken and barbecue. In addition to being prone to obesity, these people may also experience a weakened immune system.3. People Who Are Depressed and Often Angry
Hu also pointed out that breast cancer tends to afflict individuals who frequently get angry and have a poor outlook on life. Having negative emotions such as always finding fault with others, feeling mistreated, and blaming everything on external factors can create a body environment conducive to the growth of breast cancer cells.Top 3 Ways to Prevent Breast Cancer
1) Maintain a Warm Body Temperature
Drink warm water daily and avoid excessive consumption of cold drinks. Body temperature should be maintained at 97.7 F to 98.6 F (36.5 C to 37.2 C). A body temperature consistently below 96.8 F (36 C) can make the body more susceptible to illness. Try to keep the body warm; wear skirts and shorts occasionally, but avoid exposing the thighs, cleavage, and stomach too frequently.2) Get Regular and Sufficient Sleep
The saying “early to bed and early to rise makes a person healthy” is a commonly accepted belief, but many young people nowadays believe that “staying up late and sleeping in” is better for their mood. While this may be true during their youth, as they age, staying up late and sleeping in can cause many issues, such as back pain and a negative mood. Therefore, it is best to avoid staying up late and try to go to bed before 11 p.m. to restore energy and enhance the body’s defenses against illnesses.3) Try Not to Get Angry and Maintain a Peaceful State of Mind
The TCM Perspective on the Causes of Breast Cancer
Hu referenced the TCM literature “A Heart Approach to Gynecology,” which states that “ru yan is caused by depression and anger damaging the liver and spleen.” Ru yan is an ancient TCM term for breast cancer. According to TCM, breast cancer is caused by depression and anger damaging the liver and spleen meridians. The breast is part of the spleen and stomach meridians, while the nipples are part of the liver meridian. As such, issues with the nipples correspond to the liver meridian, and issues with the breast correspond to the spleen meridian, both of which can potentially lead to the development of breast cancer.In TCM, it is believed that the human body has a system of “meridians,” which are channels for the flow of qi (energy) that connect the internal organs with various parts of the body. Along the meridian pathways, there are acupuncture points that correspond to different parts of the body.
According to TCM’s theory of syndrome differentiation and treatment, diseases can be caused by various factors, such as wind, fire (heat), summer heat, dampness, dryness, and cold. Hu pointed out that breast cancer is not necessarily a problem with the breast itself. Some lesions may manifest in the breast, but the underlying cause of the disease could be dampness and heat in the intestines and stomach. To address such issues, it is advisable to avoid consuming excessively salty, bitter, and sour foods, and to refrain from drinking alcohol.
In the ancient TCM literature “A Heart Approach to Gynecology,” it is also written that “ infected blood remaining inside the body leads to the development of abscesses.” This suggests that the presence of toxic and “bad blood” in the body can contribute to the formation of ulcers. When abscesses form in the mammary gland, it could be a sign of breast cancer. However, it is important to note that the term “infected blood” in this context does not refer to septicemia, but rather to stagnant, bad blood in the body.
“Infected blood” can block the flow of qi and blood, leading to the formation of blood stasis. Blood stasis then inhibits the smooth flow of blood throughout the body, resulting in symptoms such as fatigue, hunger, weakness, stiffness, and soreness.
Tapping on 6 Acupoints Daily for Cancer Prevention
Based on the relationship between specific areas of the body and their corresponding meridians and acupoints, Hu has developed a set of exercises for breast health.The six relevant acupoints are shown in the figure: Shanzhong, Jianjing, Zhongfu, Taiyuan, Quchi, and Jiquan.
First, extend your right hand and make a loose fist with your thumb pointing forward. With the palm of your hand facing the acupoint, gently tap on the first four acupoints, namely Shanzhong, Jianjing, Zhongfu, and Taiyuan. Then, open your right hand and use your palm to tap on the Quchi and Jiquan acupoints. Alternate between your left and right hand for each acupoint, tapping each acupoint 36 times. Repeat this process three times daily, in the morning, afternoon, and evening.
Hu also suggested massaging the breasts while showering. Open your palms and grasp both breasts, then rotate them outward and massage them 36 times. Then, rotate them inward and massage them another 36 times. Finally, use both hands to softly pull both breasts forward 36 times. Consistently doing this can reduce the risk of breast cancer, but remember not to use too much force.
It is important to note that massage and acupuncture therapy should not be used as a substitute for mainstream treatments for breast cancer, such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Patients should always seek professional medical guidance and consult with their doctors before undergoing these alternative therapies.
