Mickie Griffith-Autry, PhD, NP-C
Mickie Griffith-Autry Article
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women, second to lung cancer. An estimated 192,200 women develop breast cancer, but only 42,000 die of the disease according to the National Cancer Institute (2003). Early detection and prevention have reduced the mortality from this disease.
Risk factors associated the breast cancer are numerous. Literature reports that a personal history of breast cancer, history of breast cancer in first-degree relatives, smoking, early menarche, late menopause, nulliparity, delayed childbirth, obesity, alcohol consumption, lack of exercise, high-fat-diet, exposure to radiation, and possibly hormone therapy are potential risk factors.
Breast cancer can present as a lump, a painful mass, nipple discharge, or skin dimpling. Unfortunately some cancers have no clinical presentation and are only found on routine mammograms.
Diagnosis strategies for breast conditions include physical examination, mammography, and possibly sonography. When found pharmacologic treatments include oral contraceptives, hormone therapy, steroidal preparations, and a particular classification of medications called dopamine receptor agonists. Dietary modification should also be considered. For example decreasing caffeine intake, increasing Vitamin A and E consumption and primrose oil have been suggested as breast healthy.
Arming yourself with accurate knowledge regarding breast health can help menopausal women to sort through myths and gain a solid understanding of positive lifestyle behaviors, prevent breast cancer, and promote the detection of the disease.
Ms. Autry earned her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Jacksonville State University, her Masters of Science degree in nursing from the University of Alabama Huntsville, and her PhD from Walden University. Her research dissertation was entitled Pelvic muscle strengthening: Impact on sexual functioning in the menopausal woman. Ms. Autry is certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, the American Nursing Credentialing Center, and the Certification Board for Urological Nurses and Associates. She has completed multiple postgraduate preceptor programs in female sexual medicine, pelvic pain, and pelvic floor dysfunction. Ms. Autry is an active member of the Society of Urological Nurse Associates, North American Menopause Society, American Urological Society, and the International Pelvic Pain Society and founder of two women's health support groups. She is a national and local speaker for multiple pharmaceutical and medical companies, has participated in clinical trial studies, and has published articles in the Society of Urological Nurse Associate and North American Menopause Society journals.
Mickie Griffith-Autry, PhD, NP-C |
