is anticipated that the initial discussion post should be in the range of 250-300 words. Response posts to peers have no minimum word requirement but must demonstrate topic knowledge and scholarly engagement with peers. Substantive content is imperative for all posts. All discussion prompt elements for the topic must be addressed. Please proofread your response carefully for grammar and spelling. Do not upload any attachments unless specified in the instructions. All posts should be supported by a minimum of one scholarly resource, ideally within the last 5 years. Journals and websites must be cited appropriately. Citations and references must adhere to APA format.
Initial Response
Instructions:
A 32-year-old female presents for an evaluation of a lump in her right breast that she found on breast self-examination. The lump is found to be 2cm in size, firm, and mobile. No adenopathy noted.
- What are two questions you would ask this patient?
- What are two risk factors would you want to assess for?
- What are the levels of prevention for this patient?
Please be sure to validate your opinions and ideas with citations and references in APA format.
Questions to Ask:
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History and Onset of the Lump: “When did you first notice the lump, and has it changed in size or consistency over time?” This question provides information on the duration and progression, which is crucial for distinguishing benign from potentially malignant lesions (American Cancer Society, 2023).
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Associated Symptoms: “Have you experienced nipple discharge, skin changes, or breast pain?” This helps identify any red-flag symptoms that may warrant more urgent diagnostic evaluation.
Risk Factors to Assess:
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Family History of Breast Cancer: A history of breast or ovarian cancer in first-degree relatives may indicate a higher risk due to possible genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 (DeSantis et al., 2021).
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Hormonal and Reproductive History: Early menarche, late menopause, nulliparity, and use of hormonal contraceptives or replacement therapy can influence breast cancer risk and guide patient counseling.
Levels of Prevention:
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Primary Prevention: Educate the patient on lifestyle modifications that reduce risk, including maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding tobacco use.
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Secondary Prevention: Diagnostic evaluation through clinical breast examination, imaging (ultrasound or mammography), and biopsy if indicated to detect disease at an early, treatable stage.
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Tertiary Prevention: If cancer is diagnosed, treatment options such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy aim to reduce complications, prevent recurrence, and optimize quality of life.
By systematically assessing history, risk factors, and implementing preventive strategies, clinicians can provide comprehensive care while supporting early detection and improved outcomes.
References
American Cancer Society. (2023). Breast cancer early detection and diagnosis. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/screening-tests-and-early-detection.html
DeSantis, C. E., Ma, J., Gaudet, M. M., Newman, L. A., Miller, K. D., Goding Sauer, A., … & Jemal, A. (2021). Breast cancer statistics, 2021. CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, 71(3), 241–252. https://doi.org/10.3322/caac.21654
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