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Analysis of Thermography and Breast Cancer Prevention Among Minority Women and Other Ethnic Groups
Author(s) -
New Katina M,
Einstein George P,
Tulp Orien L
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.31.1_supplement.806.1
Subject(s) - medicine , breast cancer , socioeconomic status , oncology , gynecology , cancer , environmental health , population
Breast cancer is often a devastating disease that affects millions of women, regardless of race, ethnic group or socioeconomic status annually. The goal of this research is to demonstrate the high‐risk breast patterns as detected via Infrared Thermography and how the thermographic patterns can be improved with lifestyle and other changes, thereby decreasing the individual's risk for developing late stage breast cancer. Results of data obtained from fifteen women who underwent breast thermography, via a digital infrared imaging camera called the FLIR T420 were compared via t‐test. The goal of the study was to stratify patients on the scale of fibrocystic or precancerous breasts into none, mild, moderate and severe categories, and to identify high risk, moderate risk, and low risk groups based on a risk assessment questionnaire, blood tests for vitamin D 25 ‐OH, and testing for genetic mutation of the Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase [MTHFR] gene. From this risk stratification we then determined the need for incorporating a prevention protocol which included: 1] education on diet, 2] exercise and prevention of exposure, 3] detoxification of environmental toxins; 4] education on stress relief; 5] education on breast self‐examination; 6] iodine and vitamin D supplementation; and 7] local application of Frankincense oil to the breast to help attenuate inflammatory processes. Patients were re‐evaluated after the initial exam at intervals of three months, six months and one year. This follow up monitored the benefits of the protocol and documented the progression of decrease in high risk factors for each patient. All 15 participants complied with all treatment regimens throughout the study. Participants exhibited marked improvements in breast health at the conclusion of the study. The results of this study indicate that beast examination via therrmography is effective in the aid of breast cancer prevention. These results indicate that thermography is an effective tool that should be utilized more by physicians and other health care providers to assist with early detection and prevention of breast cancer. Also, the results of this study support the encouragement of routine exercise, maintaining a BMI less than 30 and strategies that assist in stress management. Early MTHFR genetic testing will also help determine if the patient is at an increased risk for developing breast cancer prior to the onset of symptoms. Support or Funding Information Supported by Institutional Resources of USAT and Einstein Medical Institute.