By DR ANDRE CLARKE

Breast cancer has affected the lives of so many Bahamian families and families the world over.

It is the most common cancer in women worldwide and comprises approximately 16 percent of all female cancers. In the United States, it is also the most common cancer diagnosed, second only to skin cancer.

In the past, it was thought to be a disease of the developed world, but it is now known that a majority of all breast cancer deaths occur in developing countries.

It is worth noting that breast cancer also affects men and when diagnosed in men, the prognosis is equally as devastating.

Breast cancer, simply put, is cancer that forms in the cells of the breasts. There are many scientific types of breast cancer, but they can be categorized for simplicity, as those originating from breast ducts and those originating from breast lobes. Treatment depends on the type, the differentiation and the spread of the breast cancer cells.

The standard of care for persons with breast cancer has significantly improved throughout the years. The global increase of breast cancer survival rates reflects this. Early detection techniques; new treatment modules and an improving understanding of the disease, are some of the things that have propelled the survival rate upwards.

The public's support surrounding breast cancer is phenomenal. Breast cancer awareness and research funding have helped to positively impact the management of breast cancer. After many public educational programs, it can be said that many persons in the public understand to some level, the role risk factors play in the disease of breast cancer.

A breast cancer risk factor is anything that makes an individual more likely to get breast cancer. If you have one or more risk factors, it does not mean that you will develop breast cancer. A few of the risk factors are, increasing age; being female; gene mutation; obesity; late menopause; early menarche (first menstrual cycle) and alcohol consumption.

Everyone who has been touched by breast cancer needs to understand the effects of breast cancer in a holistic manner and the impact it has on the oral cavity. The impact must not be ignored.

Breast cancer affects the oral cavity directly and indirectly. Directly, by the spread of breast cancer cells (metastasis) into the mouth and jaws. Indirectly, by the side effects of the methods of treatment of the disease.

Most women undergo surgery for breast cancer and also receive additional treatment, such as chemotherapy, radiation or hormone therapy. It is common for chemotherapy and radiation therapy to cause inflammation of the mouth's mucous membranes and tissues.

These different therapies can also predispose to infections, bleeding, dry mouth and tooth decay. Taste changes, jaw stiffness, mouth pain/burning and bone loss in the jaws are also common.

Hormonal therapy can also cause bone loss in the jaws. Drugs called bisphosphonates are sometimes used to treat the bone loss. These bisphosphonates, in turn can predispose to possible future poor bone healing capability in the jaws. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy also can predispose to future poor bone healing capability in the jaws.

It is crucial for persons undergoing treatment for breast cancer and the survivors of breast cancer, to be aware of the mouth changes mentioned above. Affected persons should seek a consultation with their oral health care professional.

While the eyes may be the window to the soul, your mouth is a window to your body's health. The state of your oral health can offer lots of clues about your overall health. Oral health and overall health are more connected than you may realize.

Remember, sometimes the first sign of a disease shows up in your mouth. An infection in your mouth can be a sign of problems in other areas of your body. Keep your mouth alive.

This article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended and may not be treated as, a substitute for professional medical/dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or dental professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical/dental condition. Never disregard professional medical/dental advice or delay in seeking it because of a purely informational publication. If you have questions, please send email to dr_andreclarke@hotmail.com.