Today in the United States, breast cancer affects approximately one in eight women and is currently the most common cancer among women. The number of cases is expected to decrease thanks to advances in technology and dedicated researchers. Each year, scientists invest approximately $4.8 billion in research to help find a cure or new treatment for breast cancer ("STAT Facts Breast Cancer"). Researchers have found causes, incorporated research and theories that help understand treatments, prevention, and even common symptoms and coping mechanisms.II. Cause of breast cancer, as well as other forms of cancer, scientists know how it occurs, but they do not know the exact cause. There are some genes in our body called oncogenes, genes that have the potential to cause cancer, which increases the rate of cell division while other genes, such as tumor suppressors, cause cells to die at the right time. Mutations that occur in DNA, which “turn on” oncogenes or “turn off” tumor suppressor genes, will cause cancer of some breast cells (“American Cancer Society”). Additionally, breast cancer can be increased by inherited genetic mutations and acquired genetic mutations. If a mutation occurs, the risk of breast cancer can increase significantly due to hereditary transmission from parents to children. For example, if a suppressor gene, such as BRCA, forms a mutation, it is likely to be passed on to future generations. This gene no longer suppresses abnormal growth, so there is a greater chance of cancer developing. Although breast cancer can be inherited, it is more likely to be acquired through a cell in the breast. Acquired mutations could be the result of radiation or cancer-causing chemicals. ...... middle of paper ...... you feel confident and comfortable. Another coping mechanism is to keep busy and active, spend time in nature, or write in a journal. These simple tasks take your mind off the cancer diagnosis and all the possible outcomes. However, the most important way to deal with it is to fully understand cancer and how it affects the body.VIII. Conclusion Breast cancer is a scary disease and can be harmful to many people, however as time goes on more and more information is known. The 30% decrease in breast cancer deaths is huge and it's just the beginning. By including prevention, treatment and symptoms, breast cancer is a disease that can be defeated. Home page. Np, nd Web. April 5."My HealtheVet." Ability to cope with breast cancer. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, n.d. Web. 7 April 2014.