Considering its prevalence, many of us are already familiar with breast cancer and the shadow it casts on everyone, regardless of sex and age. As discussed in our previous posts, breast cancer can develop in men, women, the youth, and the elderly. One in eight women will experience it in their lifetime, and male breast cancer will occur in every 833 men. Furthermore, the National Breast Cancer Foundation reported that invasive breast cancer will affect an estimated 310,720 women and 2,800 men in 2024.
Despite these alarming figures, breast cancer mortality rates fell 58% from 1975 to 2019. The question is—
Why Are Breast Cancer Deaths Declining Overall?
Researchers attribute the drop in death rates to early breast cancer detection through genetic testing and clinical screening, as well as advanced treatments.
How Early Detection Saves Lives
When breast cancer cells are found early, or when the cancer is in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%. Monthly breast self-exams and scheduling routine clinical breast exams and mammograms help diagnose breast cancer as early as possible, especially for those with risk factors. In fact, countless celebrities and cancer survivors have credited mammogram screenings and self-testing for bringing their cancer to light at an early stage.
To further highlight the importance of early detection, Becky Dicker, RN, MSN, a breast cancer survivor from New Jersey, shared her experiences. Below is a quick recap of her story, which is available in full on The ASCO Post.
Case Study #1: Becky Dicker, Saved by Genetic Testing and Regular Screenings
Becky Dicker has a strong family history of cancer. Her mother, brother, and uncle had faced and survived melanoma. However, when her sister was diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer in 2010, she immediately underwent genetic testing to determine her own risk.
At 45, she tested positive for the BRCA2 gene mutation. Her mother and siblings also underwent genomic testing since this mutation is hereditary. The results showed that she and her brother carried the mutation, while their mother did not. They suspect inheriting the gene mutation from their father, who died suddenly at 60—before genetic counseling and testing became available.
Leaping Into Progression Prevention
After learning she was a BRCA2 mutation carrier, Becky had risk-reducing surgery, opting to have her ovaries removed since a faulty BRCA2 gene also raises the risk of ovarian cancer. Her plan also included undergoing a prophylactic double mastectomy to minimize her breast cancer risk, but life’s complexities kept interfering. Still, for over a decade, everything stayed normal, and Becky settled into a routine of surveillance screenings.
Unfortunately, in March 2021, her mammogram revealed a mass on her right breast, and doctors confirmed it as ductal carcinoma in situ. Although she anticipated the possibility, she couldn’t help but feel disappointed that she hadn’t proceeded with the surgery before the cancer had a chance to develop. Nonetheless, she completed treatment in the same year, which destroyed the malignant tumor in her breast.
“There is no evidence of cancer in my body, and I remain in remission,” said Becky. “My goal now is to raise awareness on cancer prevention and the benefit of early detection, which saved my life twice,” she adds. She also had early-stage pancreatic cancer, which doctors found while examining Becky for post-mastectomy reconstruction.
How Alternative Breast Cancer Interventions Save Lives
Instead of traditional treatments like radiation and long-term medication, the following survivors searched for advanced alternatives and found New Hope.
Case Study #2: Cindy Kicklighter, Saved by Alternative Breast Cancer Therapies
Cindy Kicklighter received her devastating diagnosis in 2013. Doctors advised immediate action due to the aggressive nature of her stage III breast cancer, warning of a terminal prognosis if not treated as soon as possible.
By December 2014, Cindy’s cancer had progressed to stage IV, affecting her lymph nodes and hip. The pain was debilitating, and conventional treatments seemed ineffective. Cindy’s search for alternatives led her to New Hope Unlimited, where she found hope and relief. Despite initial skepticism from doctors, Cindy was determined to explore less toxic treatment options aligned with her understanding of the immune system and holistic healing.
Upon arriving at New Hope, Cindy underwent twelve days of intensive care and treatments aimed at empowering her body to fight the cancer. Within a few months, she experienced significant improvement, regaining mobility and overall well-being. Subsequent scans revealed she had reached remission, prompting tears of relief and gratitude.
Cindy attributes her remarkable recovery to the holistic approach and personalized care she received at New Hope Unlimited. She emphasizes the importance of seeking treatments aligned with one’s beliefs and encourages others facing similar challenges to explore all available options.
Read Cindy’s Full Testimonial.
Case Study #3: Jim Colvins, Male Breast Cancer Survivor
Jim, accompanied by his wife Georgey, shared his journey as a male breast cancer patient from Denver, Colorado. He underwent multiple treatments, including mastectomy and chemotherapy. While he sought care at various cancer centers across the United States, he kept relapsing. His breast cancer recurred for the third time before finding New Hope.
The Colvins learned about New Hope Unlimited from a friend who achieved remission through immunotherapy. Jim’s experience was also positive—he credited the individualized cancer care and alternative therapies, which were unavailable in the United States, for improving his health.
Georgey echoes Jim’s sentiments, commending Dr. Branyon’s informative guidance on nutrition and treatment steps. She observed a dramatic difference in Jim’s energy levels and appreciated the accommodating staff at New Hope Unlimited.
The Future of Breast Cancer Care Is Comprehensive, Holistic, and Personalized
Becky, Cindy, Jim, and those with similar experiences not only inspired others to reevaluate their breast cancer treatment choices, but they also helped reduce the skepticism toward alternative cancer therapies. Some facilities now offer personalized cancer care that combines traditional interventions with comprehensive protocols like immunotherapy, as well as holistic approaches like yoga, acupuncture, and reflexology. Some facilities also offer hormone-based therapies and tailor drug regimens to each patient’s needs.
The previous one-size-fits-all approach to treating cancer is becoming obsolete as healthcare providers prioritize enhancing patients’ quality of life. This shift is building a future with reduced reliance on chemotherapy and radiation, fewer surgical procedures, improved recovery, and less side effects.
Experience the future now. Contact New Hope Unlimited at 480-666-1403 to book a consultation and learn more about alternative treatments for breast cancer.
