One in Nine
The VVF asks why breast cancer cases are
rising and investigates the role of diet
HOW BREASTS GROW
Breast development
During puberty the sexual organs mature, the secondary sexual characteristics (such as breasts and body hair) develop and reproduction becomes possible. During this time girls develop milk-producing glands called lobules at the back of the breasts. These lobules are connected to tiny tubes called ducts that can carry milk to the nipple. The lobules, ducts and blood vessels are surrounded by fatty tissue and connective tissue called stroma which is attached to the chest wall (see Figure 1.0).
The male breast
Men have much less fatty tissue in their breasts than women but can still be affected by breast cancer. Men’s breast tissue contains ducts, but only a few, if any, lobules.
Lymph nodes
The lymphatic system is an important part of the immune system that helps the body fight infection. It is made up of a network of thin vessels that spread into tissues throughout the body. A clear fluid called lymph circulates around the system transporting infection-fighting cells called lymphocytes that help remove foreign matter and cellular debris. Lymph nodes act as filters and may swell up when a possible threat (such as a bacterium) is identified. Generalised lymphadenopathy (when all the nodes of the body are swollen) may indicate a systemic illness such as an infection or cancer.
Figure 1.0 The female breast.
By: Dr Justine Butler, Senior Health Campaigner, Vegetarian & Vegan Foundation (VVF)
Published by: Vegetarian & Vegan Foundation, Top Suite, 8 York Court, Wilder Street, Bristol BS2 8QH
T: 0117 970 5190
E: info@vegetarian.org.uk
W: www.vegetarian.org.uk
© Vegetarian & Vegan Foundation 2007
Registered charity 1037486
Illustration: Philip Downs
Graphic design: The Ethical Graphic Design Company Ltd
Also by Dr Justine Butler: White Lies: the Health Consequences of Consuming Cow’s Milk available from: www.vegetarian.org.uk/campaigns/whitelies/resources.html and A Fighting Chance: a Guide to Healthy Eating to Help Prevent and Overcome Breast Cancer available from: www.vegetarian.org.uk/campaigns/breastcancer
Recommended reading: Your Life in Your Hands by Professor Jane Plant available from: www.vegetarian.org.uk/shop/bookshealth.shtml
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