Top Breast Cancer Stories of 2023

As 2023 winds down, CURE looks back on the stories on breast cancer, which includes several topics such as difficult decisions to make about treatment or reconstruction to feelings about awareness months.

Here we share the top stories in the breast cancer space, some of which include contributor submissions and a podcast.

Low-Carb, Plant-Rich Diet ‘Appears to be Beneficial for Women With Breast Cancer’

Adhering to a low-carbohydrate diet predominantly composed of plant-based foods has been linked to enhanced overall survival (the time from diagnosis or the start of treatment when a patient with cancer is still alive) among women diagnosed with breast cancer, as revealed in a recent research study. It is noteworthy, though, that such diets do not exhibit a significant association with improved breast cancer-specific survival. Investigations have concluded that there is no discernible connection between low-carb diets rich in plant-based foods and breast cancer-specific survival rates. Nevertheless, the adoption of this dietary approach has demonstrated positive implications for overall longevity.

The Ditching Hour – Breast Cancer

Laura Yeager, a CURE contributor, writes about her relationship with bras after undergoing a double mastectomy and various breast surgeries due to two bouts of breast cancer.

“Well, I would like to coin a term – the ‘ditching hour,’” she wrote. “This is the time of day when your bra turns into the devil, and you must immediately yank it off. You must ditch it. We, as women (and perhaps, men) know of this time. This is the time when you can’t stand your bra for one more second. For me, this is around 7:00 PM. For you, it might be earlier or later.”

‘The Complete Guide to Breast Reconstruction’ Author Empowers Patients With Information

For over two decades, Kathy Steligo has been a reliable source of information for individuals grappling with breast cancer. Having triumphed over breast cancer twice, Steligo is the acclaimed author of "The Complete Guide to Breast Reconstruction: Choosing the Best Options After Your Mastectomy."

Originally published under the title "The Breast Reconstruction Guidebook: Issues and Answers from Research to Recovery," Steligo's book has evolved through five editions, the most recent of which was recently unveiled through Johns Hopkins University Press.

Beyond her book on breast reconstruction, Steligo, co-author of "Living with Hereditary Cancer Risk" and "The Breast Cancer Book," engaged in a conversation with CURE®'s "Cancer Horizons" podcast. In this discussion, she delved into the latest updates incorporated into the book and shared insights into her ongoing commitment to arming patients with empowering information.

My Difficult Decision to Stop Hormone Therapy After Breast Cancer

Patti McGee, a CURE contributor, details her decision-making process to stop taking hormone therapy drugs after completing cancer treatment.

“If you're facing a similar decision, my advice to you is to take the time you need to make the decision that feels right for you,” she wrote. “Talk to your doctors, your loved ones and anyone else who can offer you support and guidance. Remember that ultimately, the decision is yours and yours alone, and that there is no one ‘right’ answer. Trust yourself and your instincts, and know that whatever decision you make, you are not alone.”

‘For Me, Every Month is Breast Cancer Awareness Month’

For individuals contending with metastatic breast cancer, the arrival of Breast Cancer Awareness Month each October evokes a nuanced array of emotions.

Sally Joy Wolf, who received her initial breast cancer diagnosis eight years ago, only to discover its metastasis five years later, reflects on the predominant imagery during October. She notes a prevalence of pink-themed messaging that tends to exude a somewhat glittery aesthetic.

In a conversation with CURE®'s "Cancer Horizons" podcast, Wolf mentioned she doesn't attribute any malicious intent to what she describes as the "sea of pink" in October. She acknowledges that those contributing to the awareness efforts likely have genuine intentions.

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