Women's History of Breast Cancer

Women’s History Month & the History of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a disease that has been affecting women throughout history. It has been recorded as far back as ancient Egypt, where descriptions of breast tumors have been found in papyrus manuscripts. Over the years, women pioneers have contributed significantly to the understanding and treatment of breast cancer. Today, breast ultrasound is considered the best option for dense breast tissue.

Early History of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer has been recorded throughout history. The first known description of breast cancer dates back to ancient Egypt, around 1600 BCE. The Edwin Smith Papyrus describes breast tumors and treatment options for them. In ancient Greece, Hippocrates recognized the seriousness of breast cancer and attempted surgical treatments. However, it was not until the 17th century that mastectomy became a common treatment option for breast cancer.

Women Pioneers in Breast Cancer

Over the years, many women pioneers have made significant contributions to the understanding and treatment of breast cancer. In the 19th century, Marie-Francois Bichat and William Lawrence recognized that breast cancer was a disease of the breast tissue and not just a localized growth. In the early 20th century, Alice Hamilton conducted research on the link between breast cancer and exposure to toxins in the workplace.

In the 1950s, Jane C. Wright became the first woman to lead a cancer chemotherapy research team. Her team developed the first chemotherapy regimen for breast cancer. In the 1980s, Bernadine Healy became the first woman to lead the National Institutes of Health. During her tenure, she advocated for increased funding for breast cancer research and helped to establish the Women's Health Initiative, a long-term study on the effects of hormone therapy in postmenopausal women.

Breast Ultrasound for Dense Breast Tissue

Breast density refers to the amount of glandular and connective tissue in the breast compared to fat tissue. Dense breast tissue can make it more difficult to detect breast cancer on a mammogram. Breast ultrasound is a noninvasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of breast tissue. It is considered the best option for women with dense breast tissue.

A breast ultrasound can detect breast cancer that may not be visible on a mammogram. It is also helpful in distinguishing between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts. A breast ultrasound is painless and does not involve radiation.

At Eve Wellness, we provide FDA-Approved Breast Ultrasound screening, using the GE ABUS machine, powered by FDA-Approved AI (artificial intelligence).  No radiation, scanning in less than 20 minutes, physician read results back in 24-48 hours, all in a comfortable, spa-like environment.  

Visit Eve Wellness at 2102 Union Street, right in the heart of Cow Hollow.  To celebrate Women’s History Month, we are offering $50 off your first breast ultrasound. Find it before you feel it with Eve. Walk-ins and same day appointments welcomed.

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