Women who receive radiation therapy after breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) increase their chances of surviving breast cancer, according to the results of a new study. Past studies have shown that radiation can reduce the risk that breast cancer will return after breast-conserving surgery, but the current study is the first to definitively show that radiation may actually reduce the risk of death. The researchers say their results should help doctors and patients decide whether radiation is an appropriate treatment option.

Results of a recent study suggest that taking calcium and vitamin D supplements provide only a modest benefit in protecting bone mass and preventing hip fractures in some older women but do not protect against other types of fractures or colorectal cancer. In addition, the supplements were associated with an increased risk of kidney stones. The study results are somewhat surprising in that they show that calcium and vitamin D, while beneficial for increasing bone mass, provided less protection against hip fractures than expected. In the study, only women over 60 years of age who took the full intended dose of supplements were protected against hip fractures.

Maintaining a well-balanced diet during breast cancer treatment can help patients better cope with side effects, regain strength, and rebuild tissues damaged by cancer. However, some patients may find it difficult to eat well during treatment due to certain side effects or the emotional burden a diagnosis of breast cancer can bring. This article discusses the importance of maintaining a healthy diet during breast cancer treatment and offers suggestions on how to cope with side
effects of treatment that may affect a patient's eating habits.

Fibrocystic breast condition can be characterized by breast lumps, tenderness, cysts, areas of thickening, fibrosis, and/or pain. The non-cancerous condition is the most common cause of non-cancerous breast lumps in women between 30 and 50 years of age and affects more than 50% of all women at some point in their lives. This article explains what causes fibrocystic breasts, how the condition can be diagnosed and treated, and discusses breast health guidelines for women with fibrocystic breasts.