#modified radical mastectomy

[dailyanarchistposts]

Chapter Seven. The New Class

To tell men that they are equal has a certain sentimental appeal. But this appeal is small compared with that made by a propaganda that tells them they are superior to others, and that others are inferior to them. —Karl Popper, The Open Society and Its Enemies, Vol. 1[143]

The elevator at the Hilton Hotel in Anaheim, California, fills floor by floor, as it descends with delegates for the National Religious Broadcasters annual convention. There is a slightly forced camaraderie and an awkward cheerfulness as we head down to the lobby. People glance quickly at the plastic name tags on one another’s chests. They smile as new passengers step inside and say good morning. They sprinkle the words of the converted into their banter, talking about how “blessed” they are to be here, beginning brief dialogues with phrases such as “Where is your ministry?” and ending them with “Praise the Lord.” This call-and-response is a form of initiation, an easy way to draw the lines between themselves and nonbelievers, to establish the parameters of their exclusive community. All subcultures have their linguistic codes of identification. This new class is no exception.

The convention has brought together some 5,500 Christian broadcasters from radio and television, who reach, according to their figures, an estimated 141 million listeners and viewers across America. And they see themselves as both the persecuted and the powerful. These twin themes run through the event. They are both threatened by conspiratorial forces that seek to destroy them and empowered by the certainty of Christ’s return. These emotions bond them together as a crowd, as comrades in the battle against the godless.

Southern California, along with Colorado Springs, is one of the epicenters of the radical movement. Numerous television evangelists, including the disgraced Jimmy and Tammy Faye Bakker, got their start in these huge, soulless exurbs. These large developed tracts of housing are isolated, devoid of neighborhood gathering places, community rituals and routines, even of sidewalks. The isolation, coupled with the long, lonely commutes in a car; the cold, impersonal world of the corporate office; and the banal, incessant chatter of talk radio and television create numbness and disorientation. This destruction of community is one of the crucial factors that has led to the rise of the Christian Right. The megachurches, which have prospered in these environments, have become surrogate communities, places where people can find clubs to pursue common interests, friends, a sense of belonging, and moral direction. In these sprawling churches, which often look like shopping or convention centers, believers are reassured, told that affluence is blessed by God—a sign of their righteousness and the righteousness of their nation—and that in the embrace of the church they have a place, a home.

There is a Starbucks in the Hilton Hotel lobby. Dee Simmons from Dallas is waiting to order a coffee. Around her neck she is wearing a gold cross studded with diamonds, and on her face, smooth and unwrinkled, makeup is artfully applied. The line of men and women, in front and behind us, is conservatively dressed in skirts or coats and ties. They are about to head into the convention hall next door. Simmons and a friend, Samantha Landy, with red hair, are chatty and friendly.

In 1987, Simmons says, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and had a “modified radical mastectomy.” Five years later her mother died of cancer. These events led her, she says, to turn her focus away from the designer clothes boutiques she owned in Dallas and New York to nutrition.

“When God gave me my life back, I decided to make a difference in people’s lives,” she says.

She reaches into her purse and pulls out some pamphlets for Ultimate Living, her company. She tells me about her books, including The Natural Guide to Healthy Living, and mentions the numerous Christian talk shows she regularly appears on, including Pat Robertson’s The 700 Club, as well as Hope Today, Praise, Something Good Tonight and the Armstrong Williams Show.

“I was saved and found Christ when I was 3,” she says. “I’m64. My daughter is 36.”

She appears to wait for the effect of her age, which she will repeat a few more times, to sink in.

“I also have skin care products which are all natural,” she says. “I am on Living the Life once or twice a month, the show with Terry Meeuwsen, who was Miss America. There is a huge crossover with my nutrition work. Everyone is interested in nutrition, even nonbelievers. I use organically grown papayas. I have eight laboratories where I make Green Miracle. Green Miracle combines greens and roots that are ground up. They have all the vital nutrients. I sell it at cancer hospitals. It is good for diabetes, heart disease, immune support, hormone problems, any issue, really.”

Landy tells me she runs “Christian celebrity luncheons” in Palm Springs as part of her work of “salvation outreach for snowbirds.” Her ministry, she says, focuses on country clubs and golf courses, places “where people do not often hear the word of God.

“A lot of people go to churches and assume the pastor has a personal relationship with Christ,” she says, “but they often do not. I bring in celebrity speakers like Gavin MacLeod, he was the Captain on Love Boat; and Rhonda Fleming, she was in over 40 films and starred with Bing Crosby—speakers who have really accomplished things in the world who are Christian. Rhonda Fleming did her own stunts.”

Her list of Christian celebrities available to speak includes Donna Douglas from the Beverly Hillbillies; Ann B. Davis, who was Alice on The Brady Bunch; and Lauren Chapin, who played Kathy on Father Knows Best.

“Tell him about the wedding,” Landy prompts.

Simmons’s daughter recently got married in Dallas. The wedding was filmed for broadcast on a show called Sheer Dallas. She urges me to watch it. The wedding theme, she says, was “Sultan’s Palace: Her Majesty the Queen.” There were 500 guests who gathered in a building known as the Hall of State and “flowers from all over the world.” She says she would rather not mention the cost. Her husband—who, she says, is “very, very wealthy,” adding “I don’t need to work”—refers, she says, to the wedding expense as “the national debt.”

“Her husband is quite a bit older,” Landy interjects.

“There was a huge fireworks display,” Simmons says, “but I am too embarrassed to tell you how much it cost. When the fireworks stopped, a quartet sang ‘God Bless America.’ There was a saxophone solo. Everyone had chills.”

“It was awesome,” Landy says.

The cake took three months to make. There were jewels and semiprecious stones both on the cake and in the bridal bouquet. Both had to be brought the day of the wedding to the Hall of State in an armored truck.

“The bridal gown took five and a half months to make,” she says. “It had mink this thick,” she adds, holding her thumb and index finger about four inches apart.

The women, minor celebrities in the world of Christian broadcasting, capture the strange fusion between this new, flamboyant gospel of prosperity and America’s celebrity-driven culture. Not only are the wealthy blessed by the Lord and encouraged to engage in a frenzy of outlandish consumption, but also those who are famous, those who have achieved any celebrity or notoriety, no matter how minor, or those who have power, are seen as having important things to say about faith. Wealth, fame and power are manifestations of God’s work, proof that God has a plan and design for believers. This new class of celebrity, plutocrat Christians fuses with the consumer society, one where the lives and opinions of entertainers, the rich and the powerful are news. The women tell me they are in Anaheim because the yearly convention is the only time they can see all the major Christian broadcasters in one place. But it is clear they also come to be seen.

“These are the people who set up the shows,” Simmons says. “This is a good way to see everybody. It is like the gathering of one big family. We have flown in to network.”

This is the apotheosis of capitalism, the divine sanction of the free market, of unhindered profit and the most rapacious cruelties of globalization. Corporations, rapidly turning America into an oligarchy, have little interest in Christian ethics, or anybody’s ethics. They know what they have to do, as the titans of the industry remind us, for their stockholders. They are content to increase profit at the expense of those who demand fair wages, health benefits, safe working conditions and pensions. This new oligarchic class is creating a global marketplace where all workers, to compete, will have to become like workers in dictatorships such as China: denied rights, their wages dictated to them by the state, and forbidden from organizing or striking. America once attempted to pull workers abroad up to American levels, to foster the building of foreign labor unions, to challenge the abuse of workers in factories that flood the American market with cheap goods. But this new class seeks to reduce the American working class to the levels of this global serfdom. After all, anything that drains corporate coffers is a loss of freedom—the God-given American freedom to exploit other human beings to make money. The marriage of this gospel of prosperity with raw, global capitalism, and the flaunting of the wealth and privilege it brings, are supposedly blessed and championed by Jesus Christ. Compassion is relegated to private, individual acts of charity or left to churches. The callousness of the ideology, the notion that it in any way reflects the message of the gospels, which were preoccupied with the poor and the outcasts, illustrates how the new class has twisted Christian scripture to serve America’s god of capitalism and discredited the Enlightenment values we once prized.

The Convention Center, located next door, is a huge, curvy glass structure with gleaming towers. The exhibition hall on the first floor has plush, blue carpeting and 320 display booths. At the far end of the hall lie the twisted remains of an Israeli bus blown up by Palestinian suicide bombers in Jerusalem. The Israeli Ministry of Tourism has the largest display space in the hall. The Christian Law Center, organized to remove “activist judges” in the courts, has people handing out yardsticks of gum. At a booth featuring Valerie Saxion’s book The Gospel of Health, they are mixing raspberry shakes in blenders. A Virginia Web design company in another booth offers “church Web sites the way God intended.” A bearded man dressed as a biblical prophet promotes tours to the Holy Land. Numerous antiabortion booths are staffed by women, who, it often turns out, had multiple abortions before finding Christ. There are fringe groups such as Jews for Jesus and Accuracy in Media, which is passing out a report with the title American Troops Cheer Attacks on U.S. Media.

Rows of palm trees are visible through banks of windows, and on the upper floors are technical workshops, such as “Finding God in Hollywood,” as well as luncheons. One seminar is entitled “Taking Over Cities for Christ: The Thousand-Day Plan.” In the parking lot outside the center is a pickup truck with large hand-painted panels covered with antigay slogans. There is a round red circle with a line through the center superimposed on the faces of two men kissing. “Stop the Insanity” is painted across the top. I walk outside after surveying the hall and pick up one of the pamphlets in a metal box on the side of the truck. “PROTECT YOUR FAMILY & FRIENDS FROM THE DANGERS OF…HOMOSEXUALITY: THE TRUTH!” the pamphlet says. It lists “the facts about homosexuality they refuse to teach in Public Schools or report on the Evening News!” including “because of unsanitary sexual practices, homosexuals carry the bulk of all bowel disease in America” and “homosexuals average 500 sexual partners in their short lifetime.”

The opening session is held on the third floor, a large room with a round stage surrounded on three sides with rows of folding chairs. The hall is dimly lit. There are a few thousand people. Large television screens are suspended from the ceilings, and the platform in front of us has a podium and a grand piano. The host, Bob Lepine, cohost of the radio show Family Life Today, broadcast from Little Rock, Arkansas, is a round-faced man with an easy smile. He begins the session by showing himself in a video wandering the beaches near Anaheim asking surfers and stray Californians, some of whom clearly spent the night sleeping on the beach, what “NRB” means. No one knows, but the guesses evoke laughter from the hall.

“One of the fun things about coming here…I was thinking about the old days, you know, when we used to go to Washington to the Sheraton in February, and it’s cold, and now we come here and it’s warm, and you get to go to the beach and see weird people,” he quips. He explains that the evening is sponsored by the Family Research Council and introduces its president, Tony Perkins, who, he notes, “was responsible for the covenant marriage law that got passed in Louisiana,” a law that made it harder for couples to divorce.

Perkins is typical of the new class of insider-cum-outsiders. He organized the rallies, broadcast around the nation to church audiences, known as “Justice Sunday,” which featured an array of politicians such as Senate majority leader Bill Frist, all pounding home one central theme: the Democrats are at war with “people of faith.” The Democrats used the filibuster, viewers were told, to block judicial appointees who were people of faith. Perkins works for James Dobson, who founded the Family Research Council, the lobbying arm of his Focus on the Family empire. Dobson has said the Supreme Court’s legalization of abortion with Roe v. Wade unleashed “the biggest Holocaust in world history” and has compared the “black-robed men” on the Supreme Court to “the men in white robes, the Ku Klux Klan.”[144]

Justice Sunday was part of a strategy devised more than two decades ago by Woody Jenkins, Perkins’s political mentor. Jenkins and some 50 conservative men gathered in May 1981 at the northern Virginia home of direct-mail pioneer Richard Viguerie to plot the growth of their movement following Ronald Reagan’s presidential victory. They formed the Council for National Policy (CNP), a secretive, right-wing organization that brought together dominionists such as R. J. Rushdoony, Pat Robertson and Jerry Falwell with right-wing industrialists willing to fund them, such as Amway founder Richard DeVos Sr. and beer baron Joseph Coors. As DeVos quipped, the CNP “brings together the doers with the donors.”[145]

Jenkins, then a Louisiana state lawmaker, became the CNP’s first executive director. He told a Newsweek reporter: “One day before the end of this century, the Council will be so influential that no president, regardless of party or philosophy, will be able to ignore us or our concerns or shut us out of the highest levels of government.”[146]

In 1999, Texas Governor George W. Bush addressed the group as he launched his bid for the presidency. The media were barred from the event. But those who wrote about the meeting afterward said that Bush, who refused to release a public transcript of his speech, promised to only appoint antiabortion judges if he was elected. The group, which meets three times a year in secret, brings together radical Christian activists, right-wing Republican politicians and wealthy patrons willing to fund the movement. During Bush’s presidency, Dick Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld have attended CNP meetings.[147]

Perkins, like other leaders in the movement, has troubling associations with white supremacy groups. They work hard now to distance themselves from these relationships, often quoting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and drawing parallels between their movement and the civil-rights movement. But during the 1996 Senate campaign of Woody Jenkins, Perkins, who was Jenkins’s campaign manager, signed an $82,500 check to the head of the Ku Klux Klan, David Duke, to acquire Duke’s phone bank list.[148] And as late as 2001, Perkins spoke at a fund-raiser for the Council of Conservative Citizens, a white nationalist group that has called blacks “a retrograde species of humanity” on its Web site.[149]

The ties by Christian Right leaders such as Perkins with racist groups highlight the long ties between right-wing fundamentalists and American racist organizations, including the Klan, which had a chaplain assigned to each chapter. During the Depression, when many on the right and in corporate America were openly flirting with fascism, fundamentalist preachers such as Gerald B. Winrod and Gerald L. K. Smith fused national and Christian symbols to advocate the country’s first crude form of Christo-fascism. Smith, who openly admired the Nazis, founded a group called the Christian Nationalist Crusade, whose magazine was The Cross and the Flag. The movement proclaimed that “Christian character is the basis of all real Americanism.”[150]

By the late 1950s these radical Christians had drifted to the fiercely anticommunist John Birch Society. Many of the ideas championed by today’s dominionists—the bizarre conspiracy theories, the calls for unrestrained capitalism, the war against “liberal” organizations such as the mainstream media and groups such as the ACLU, along with the calls to dismantle federal agencies that deal with housing or education—are drawn from the ideology of this rabid anticommunist enclave. Timothy LaHaye used to run John Birch Society training seminars in California. And Nelson Bunker Hunt, a member of the John Birch Society’s national council, worked with LaHaye to help found the CNP.[151]

A baritone voice booms throughout the arena as we watch video images of the nation’s capital: “America’s culture was hijacked by a secular movement determined to redefine society, from religious freedom to the right to life. These radicals were doing their best to destroy two centuries of traditional values, and no one seemed to be able to stop them until now.”

“Will Congress undo 200 years of tradition?” the video asks ominously. “Not on our watch.”

“This is about calling Christians across this nation to action,” Perkins says in the video. “As one who spent nearly a decade in political office and even longer as a minister of the Gospel, I see [the Family Research Council] as a bridge between Christians and between government. Spanning a gulf that has been created by judicial decisions that have taken away the rich soil of this nation, that is this historical soil of Christianity, and by those whose misguided theology have caused Christians to abandon the public square, leaving a cavernous void in public policy. As this bridge, the Family Research Council sends its team to Congress and into the White House on a daily basis, to advocate for family and for our faith.”

There was a brief attempt at resistance to the rule of National Religious Broadcasters by these dominionists. Wayne Pederson in 2002 was appointed to replace the group’s longtime president, Brandt Gustavson. “We get associated with the far Christian right and marginalized,” Pederson told a reporter for the Star Tribune in Minneapolis. “To me the important thing is to keep the focus on what’s important to us spiritually.”[152] His effort to shift the organization’s focus away from politics saw the executive committee orchestrate his removal a few weeks later. He was replaced by Frank Wright, who had spent the previous eight years serving as the executive director of Kennedy’s Center for Christian Statesmanship, a Capitol Hill ministry that conducts training for politicians on how to “think biblically about their role in government.”

Wright, with white hair and a cold, hard demeanor, lacks the easy banter of Lepine or the comforting, bland good looks of Perkins. Wright lauds the transformation in Washington, saying that 130 members of the House of Representatives are “born again.” He tells a story, which elicits laughter and applause, of how during a late-night private tour of the capital, he and other pastors stopped and prayed over Hillary Clinton’s Senate floor desk.

Wright, like most speakers, begins by talking about his long marriage. It is a reminder that in Christ is stability, that the home and marriage are protected, that Christian men and women achieve bliss denied to others. The movement, he says, is the bulwark against chaos, against a return to lives spinning out of control.

“The Gospel changed not just my life, it changed my marriage to Ruth,” he says. “It changed my family. The Gospel changes families, and churches and communities and cities and nations. All of what we call Western civilization today, it has the shape that it has and the character that it has because the Gospel changes things.”

And then he warns his listeners about the enemies at the gate, saying that “calls for diversity and multiculturalism are nothing more than thinly veiled attacks on anyone who is willing or desirous or compelled to proclaim Christian truth. Today, calls for tolerance are often a subterfuge, because they’ll tolerate just about anything except Christian truth.”

The broadcasters’ association, he explains, is lobbying in Congress against hate-crime legislation, which, Wright explains to the audience, “is step one to defining what you do as against the law.” The broadcasters have worked to thwart the “fairness doctrine,” what he calls “the bane of Christian broadcasters.

“A bill was filed in the House of Representatives that would require any programming that was ‘controversial,’ quote unquote, in nature, to give equal time to opposing viewpoints,” he tells the crowd. “Now let me think about this…controversial things…the divinity of Christ, the virgin birth, the bodily Resurrection. Everything we teach is controversial to someone else. If we had to give equal time to every opposing viewpoint, there would be no time to proclaim the truth that we’ve been commanded to proclaim. So we will fight the ‘fairness doctrine’ tooth and nail. It could be the end of Christian broadcasting if we don’t.”

The preoccupation with legislation, the plethora of speakers who come from Christian lobbying groups based in the capital, attest to a movement that is increasingly as preoccupied with legislation as with saving souls. And those that do not deal with the nuts and bolts of legislation remind those present that there are forces out there that seek to destroy Christians. James MacDonald, an imposing man with a shaved head, runs a church in Arlington Heights, Illinois, and is heard regularly on 600 Christian radio outlets. He fires up the crowd.

“How many of you out there think ministering the Word is unpopular?” he asks, as a sea of hands shoots into the air.

“His eyes are like a flame of fire,” MacDonald says, quoting Revelation 19. “Out of his mouth goes a sharp sword, and with it he can strike the nations. He treads the wine press of the fierceness and wrath of the almighty God, and on his robe and on his thigh a name is written: King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Jesus commands all men everywhere to come to the knowledge of Him.”

He reminds us that “ages of faith are not marked by dialogue but by proclamation” and “there is power in the unapologetic proclamation of truth. There is power in it. This is a kingdom of power.” When he says the word “power,” he draws it out for emphasis. He tells the crowd to eschew the “persuasive words of human wisdom.” Truth, he says, does “not rest in the wisdom of men but the power of God.” And, in a lisping imitation of liberals, he mocks, amid laughter and applause, those who want to “share” and be sensitive to the needs of others.

His antics delight most of the crowd, but not all. Luis Palau, a close protégé of Billy Graham, is one of the few present at the convention who is uncomfortable with the naked and repeated calls for power. Palau is an affable man, an Argentine with a refreshing worldliness about him. He also represents a traditional evangelicalism that has been shunted aside, often ruthlessly, by this new class. His focus is on personal salvation, he says, not the seizing of political power. He refused to become involved in the referendum banning gay marriage in Oregon, where his organization is based, although he, like Graham, is no supporter of gay rights. But he bristles at the coarseness, the naked calls for a Christian state, and the anti-intellectualism. He, like Graham, shuns the movement’s caustic, biting humor that belittles homosexuals, those deemed effete intellectuals and those condemned as “secular humanists.” The emphasis on abortion and gay marriage to the exclusion of other issues worries him.

“There are some Christians who have gone overboard,” Palau says, choosing his words carefully as we talk. “The message has become a little distorted in states where they talk about change yet focus on only one issue. We need a fuller transformation. The great thing Billy Graham did was to bring intellectualism back to fundamentalism.

“I don’t think it is wrong to want to see political change, especially in places like Latin America,” he says. “Something has to happen in politics. But it has to be based on convictions. We have to overcome the sense of despair. I worked in Latin America in the days when almost every country had a dictator. I dreamed, especially as a kid, of change, of freedom and justice. But I believe that change comes from personal conviction, from leading a more biblical lifestyle, not by Christianizing a nation. If we become called to Christ, we will build an effective nation through personal ethics. When you lead a life of purity, when you respect your wife and are good to your family, when you don’t waste money gambling and womanizing, you begin to work for better schools, for more protection and safety for your community. All change, historically, comes from the bottom up. And this means changing the masses from within.”

Palau sees his work as focused on the conversion of souls, who, once they become saved, will become a force for “structural, institutional change.” But this, he adds, “can take two or three generations.”

The emphasis on personal renewal and commitment to Christ—the staple message of evangelists such as Billy Graham and Luis Palau—is an anachronism to the new class. While speakers demand that followers give their lives to Christ, and while the born-again experience is considered the dividing line between believers and nonbelievers, the conversion experience is no longer the dominant theme pounded home from the pulpit or across the airwaves. It has been replaced by the rhetoric of war, the demands of a warrior God who promises blood and vengeance, and by the rhetoric of persecution, by the belief that there are sinister forces that seek the destruction of believers. It has also been replaced by a conspicuous and unapologetic infatuation with wealth, power and fame. As the movement has shifted away from the focus on personal salvation to a focus on power, it has incorporated into its theology the values, or lack of them, of a flagrant consumer society.

The strangest alliance, on the surface, is with Israeli Jews. After all, the movement generally teaches that Jews who do not convert are damned and will be destroyed in the fiery, apocalyptic ending of the world. It is early on Sunday morning in a ballroom on the second floor of the Hilton Hotel. The Israel Ministry of Tourism is hosting a breakfast. Several hundred people are seated at round tables with baskets of bread, fruit plates and silver pitchers of coffee. Waiters are serving plates of scrambled eggs and creamed spinach. Nearly everyone is white. On the platform is a huge picture of the Dome of the Rock, the spot where the Temple will be rebuilt to herald the Second Coming. Some 700,000 Christian tourists visit Israel each year, and with the steep decline in overall tourism, they have become a valued source of revenue in Israel.

Dominionists preach that Israel must rule the biblical land in order for Christ to return. The belief that Jews who do not convert will be killed is unmentioned at the breakfast. The featured speakers include Avraham Hirschsohn, the new Israeli minister of tourism; and Michael Medved, a cultural conservative and a nationally syndicated radio talk-show host. Medved is one of the most prominent Jewish defenders of Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ and of the radical Christian Right. He wears a yarmulke and is warmly greeted by the crowd.

“A more Christian America is good for the Jews,” he says. “This is obvious. Take a look at this support for Israel. A more Christian America is good for America, something Jewish people need to be more cognizant about and acknowledge. A more Jewish community is good for the Christians, not just because of the existence of allies, but because a more Jewish community is less seduced by secularism.”

A former left-wing radical, who in later life embraced Orthodox Judaism, he lambastes other Jews for their hostility to Christianity.

“When you see Jews who are part of the attack on Christmas,” he says, “you know they have rejected their own faith.”

He ticks off causes in which both Jewish and Christian people have been active, including the call for prayer in schools and the fight against abortion (although abortion is legal in Israel). He defends his Jewish integrity by saying he does not believe in the Rapture. But this is more than a religious alliance. It is a political alliance. It unites messianic Christians with right-wing messianic Jews, who believe God has anointed them to expand their dominion throughout the Middle East at the expense of the Arab majority.

This is soon made clear by the next speaker, Glenn Plummer, a black minister from Detroit who is active in the Republican Party. It is his role—I suspect because his status as an inner-city black minister makes expression of such sentiments “all right”—to unleash the audience’s vituperative hate against Muslims. He says he knows about Muslims because “I come from Detroit, where the biggest mosque in America is. It didn’t take 9/11 to show me there is a global battle going on for the souls of men…. When Islam comes into a place it is intent on taking over everything, not only government, but the business, the neighborhoods, everything.”

The Christian writer Kay Arthur, who can barely contain her tears when speaking of the Jews and Israel, assures those in the room that, although she loves America, if she had to choose between America and Israel, “I would stand with Israel, stand with Israel as a daughter of the King of Kings, stand according to the word of God.” She goes on to quote at length from the Book of Revelation, repeating many of the familiar passages that inspire the movement, and speaks of Jesus seated in a throne floating about Jerusalem as believers are raptured up toward him in the sky. The fate of unreconstructed Jews, including—one would assume—those hosting the breakfast, is omitted.

A popular radio host, Janet Parshall, who also leads tours to the Holy Land, speaks to the group of her dialogue with the Lord about taking tourists to a place where there are suicide bombings and attacks.

“‘God, the Holy Land has terrorists,’ I said. But God said, ‘Janet, you’re from Washington DC,’” a quote that elicited laughter.

Hirschsohn, Israel’s minister of tourism, says to the gathering: “You stood with us for the last four years when nobody else would. Thank you.”

“The Bible tells us the Lord spoke to Abraham in the land where today American troops are defending freedom,” he says. He announces that the Israeli tourism ministry will build a “pilgrim center” for Christian tourists in the Galilee.

The charred remains of Israeli Public Bus 19 are in the neighboring convention hall. The bus, owned by a Christian Zionist group called the Jerusalem Connection, was blown up by Palestinian suicide bombers in January 2004. The president of the organization, retired U.S. Brigadier General James Hutchens, according to information from the group, “looks at the conflict in Israel within a biblical context.” Bus 19 has, since the group acquired it, been displayed around the world, including in The Hague and in numerous “Remember Israel” rallies in the United States. On a table next to the bus, a seated Jerusalem Connection official hands out pamphlets reading, “Bring Bus #19 To Your Community!”

One of the reasons to bring the bus, the pamphlet says, is that “for Christians, you will increase in stature, appreciation and acceptance by Jews.”

An Egyptian woman, a Christian who is manning a booth near the bus that advertises Christian broadcasts to the Arab world, is periodically reduced to tears by enraged conventioneers who, after visiting the bus, tell her Arabs are “terrorists.”

Onlookers climb onto a platform alongside the bus to peer within. Its sides are scorched black, center doors twisted, steel frame bent and shattered. Bus 19 has been adorned with banners bearing biblical quotations, including: “I will plant Israel in their own land, never again to be uprooted from the land I have given them” (Amos 9:15); “And I will bless those who bless you. And whoever curses you I will curse” (Genesis 12:3), and “Those who say come, let us destroy them as a nation, that the name of Israel be remembered no more…. They form an alliance against God” (Psalm 83:4–5).

There are cards of condolences from American schoolchildren, flowers on the flooring of the bus, and at the base of the raised platform large photos and biographies of those killed in the attack. A poster reads: “When Palestinians love their children, more than they hate Israel, then there will be peace in Palestine.” The poster shows six photos of children holding weapons or strapped with explosives.

“Over 50 public transportation buses just like this one have been bombed in Israel,” reads another sign. “In three and a half years, suicide bombers have killed more than 975 people in Israel. They are represented here.”

But some of the Israelis in the hall are uncomfortable with the Bus 19 display. They are telling conventioneers, whom they are trying to get to visit Israel, that the bus represents an old phase in the conflict, and that Israel is now moving toward peace. One Israeli is Marina, who has long, blond hair, a brown shirt, and knee-high leather boots. She immigrated to Israel from Holland and lives on a cooperative mango farm near the Sea of Galilee. She says she is “embarrassed” to be at the convention. “These people are anti-Semitic,” she says, speaking softly as conventioneers move past the large Israeli display space. She is unhappy with the bigotry toward Muslims expressed by the speakers. When asked why the ministry is here, she answers curtly: “money.”

“No one else visits Israel,” she says.

In this version of the Christian Gospel, the exploitation and abuse of other human beings is a good. Homosexuality is an evil. And this global, heartless system of economic rationalism has morphed in the rhetoric of the Christian Right into a test of faith. The ideology it espouses is a radical evil, an ideology of death. It calls for wanton destruction, destruction of human beings, of the environment, of communities and neighborhoods, of labor unions, of a free press, of Iraqis, Palestinians or others in the Middle East who would deny us oil fields and hegemony, of federal regulatory agencies, social welfare programs, public education—in short, the destruction of all people and programs that stand in the way of a Christian America and its God-given right to dominate the rest of the planet. The movement offers, in return, the absurd but seductive promise that those who are right with God will rise to become spiritual and material oligarchs. They will become the new class. Those who are not right with God, be they poor or Muslim or unsaved, deserve what they get. In the rational world none of this makes sense. But believers have been removed from a reality-based world. They believe that through Jesus all is possible. It has become a Christian duty to embrace the exploitation of others, to build a Christian America where freedom means the freedom of the powerful to dominate the weak. Since believers see themselves as becoming empowered through faith, the gross injustices and repression that could well boomerang back on most of them are of little concern. They assuage their consciences with the small acts of charity they or their churches dole out to the homeless or the mission fields. The emotion-filled religious spectacles and spiritual bromides compensate for the emptiness of their lives. They are energized by hate campaigns against gays or Muslims or liberals or immigrants. They walk willingly into a totalitarian prison they are helping to construct. They yearn for it. They work for it with passion, self-sacrifice and a blinding self-righteousness. “Evil when we are in its power is not felt as evil but as a necessity, or even a duty,” Simone Weil wrote in Gravity and Grace. And it is the duty of the Christian foot soldiers to bring about the Christian utopia. When it is finished, when all have been stripped of legal and social protection, it will be too late to resist. This is the genius of totalitarian movements. They convince the masses to agitate for their own incarceration.

[expertacademicassignmenthelp]

Breast Cancer

Introduction

Breast cancer, a multifaceted and prevalent disease, poses a significant health challenge globally, transcending gender lines with its potential impact. Characterized by the abnormal proliferation of cells within breast tissue, breast cancer’s complex etiology remains an area of intense study and concern. Despite notable advancements in medical science and increased awareness, it continues to be a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. This comprehensive discussion aims to delve into the intricacies of breast cancer, encompassing its causes, risk factors, prevention strategies, diagnostic modalities, treatment options, and the evolving landscape of supportive care.

Causes and Risk Factors

Understanding the underlying causes and risk factors associated with breast cancer is paramount in developing effective prevention and management strategies. While the precise etiology of breast cancer remains elusive, various genetic, hormonal, environmental, and lifestyle factors contribute to its onset and progression. Genetic predispositions, such as mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, significantly elevate the risk of developing breast cancer. Additionally, hormonal influences, including early onset of menstruation, late menopause, and hormone replacement therapy, play a crucial role in disease pathogenesis. Lifestyle factors such as excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, lack of physical activity, and exposure to environmental carcinogens further augment the risk profile.

Preventive Measures

Empowering individuals with knowledge about preventive measures is essential in mitigating the burden of breast cancer. Promoting regular breast self-examinations, clinical breast examinations, and mammographic screenings facilitates early detection and intervention. Emphasizing lifestyle modifications, including maintaining a healthy weight, adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, limiting alcohol intake, and engaging in regular physical activity, can reduce the risk of breast cancer. For individuals with a heightened risk due to genetic predispositions or familial history, prophylactic surgeries, such as mastectomy or oophorectomy, and chemo preventive agents offer viable preventive options.

Diagnostic Modalities

Advances in diagnostic modalities have revolutionized the early detection and diagnosis of breast cancer, enabling prompt initiation of treatment and improved clinical outcomes. Mammography remains the cornerstone of breast cancer screening, capable of detecting abnormalities such as microcalcifications, masses, or architectural distortions. Complementary imaging techniques, including ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and molecular breast imaging (MBI), enhance diagnostic accuracy, particularly in women with dense breast tissue or high-risk profiles. Biopsy procedures, such as core needle biopsy or surgical excision, facilitate histopathological examination, enabling precise diagnosis and classification of breast lesions.

Treatment Options

Tailoring treatment strategies to individual patient characteristics and disease parameters is essential in optimizing therapeutic outcomes in breast cancer. The treatment landscape encompasses a multidisciplinary approach, integrating surgical, medical, and radiation oncology interventions. Surgical options range from breast-conserving surgeries, such as lumpectomy or segmental mastectomy, to radical procedures like total mastectomy or modified radical mastectomy, depending on tumor size, location, and extent of spread. Adjuvant therapies, including chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, aim to eradicate residual disease, prevent recurrence, and improve overall survival. Radiation therapy, administered either postoperatively or as a primary modality in selected cases, targets residual tumor cells, minimizing locoregional recurrence rates.

Supportive Care and Survivorship

Recognizing the holistic needs of breast cancer patients and survivors is integral in promoting comprehensive care and ensuring optimal quality of life. Supportive care interventions, including symptom management, psychosocial support, nutritional counseling, and rehabilitation services, address the multifaceted challenges associated with cancer diagnosis and treatment. Survivorship programs, focusing on survivorship care planning, surveillance for recurrence, long-term monitoring of treatment-related complications, and health promotion initiatives, facilitate the transition from active treatment to survivorship. Engaging patients and caregivers in survivorship care planning fosters empowerment, resilience, and a sense of agency in navigating the post-treatment phase.

Conclusion

In conclusion, breast cancer represents a formidable health challenge with profound implications for affected individuals, families, and communities worldwide. While significant strides have been made in understanding its pathophysiology, enhancing diagnostic capabilities, and expanding treatment options, concerted efforts are warranted to address existing gaps in prevention, early detection, and access to care. By fostering collaborative partnerships among stakeholders, advocating for evidence-based interventions, and promoting health equity, we can strive towards a future where breast cancer incidence and mortality rates are substantially reduced. Through continued innovation, education, and advocacy, we can transform the landscape of breast cancer care, offering hope, support, and healing to those impacted by this pervasive disease.

We wish you all the best in your medical education journey. In case you need any guidance or assistance during the learning process, do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Email at;

williamsassignmenthelpfredrick@gmail.com

[femalesurgeonuae]

Breast Cancer Surgery in Dubai: Comprehensive Guide for Patients

Contact Us On: +971 52 747 2414

Breast cancer surgery is a critical step in the journey to recovery for many women and men diagnosed with this disease. Dubai has emerged as a prominent medical hub offering world-class healthcare facilities and expert oncologists specializing in breast cancer treatment. This guide explores everything you need to know about breast cancer surgery in Dubai, including types of surgeries, what to expect, and why Dubai is a preferred choice for medical care.

Why Dubai is a Leading Destination for Breast Cancer Treatment

Dubai has gained recognition as a global healthcare destination due to its advanced medical technology, internationally trained surgeons, and state-of-the-art facilities. Many hospitals in the city are accredited by international organizations like JCI (Joint Commission International), ensuring top-notch care and adherence to global standards.

Moreover, the city boasts a patient-centric approach, where privacy, comfort, and personalized care are prioritized. Multilingual medical staff and the availability of tailored packages make Dubai an attractive choice for patients from across the world seeking breast implant treatment in dubai.

Understanding Breast Cancer Surgery

Breast cancer surgery involves removing cancerous tissues from the breast while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. The type of surgery required depends on the stage and severity of cancer, as well as the patient’s preferences and overall health.

Types of Breast Cancer Surgeries in Dubai

Lumpectomy (Breast-Conserving Surgery)This procedure removes the cancerous tumor and a small margin of surrounding tissue, preserving most of the breast. It’s often followed by radiation therapy to eliminate any remaining cancer cells.

Suitable for early-stage breast cancer.

Minimally invasive with faster recovery time.

MastectomyA mastectomy involves removing the entire breast to prevent the spread or recurrence of cancer.

Simple Mastectomy: Removes the breast tissue, nipple, and areola but spares the lymph nodes.

Modified Radical Mastectomy: Includes removal of the breast and nearby lymph nodes to prevent cancer spread.

Modern techniques in Dubai ensure aesthetic considerations, with reconstructive surgery options available.

Breast Reconstruction SurgeryMany women opt for reconstructive surgery after a mastectomy to restore the shape and appearance of the breast.

Performed using implants or autologous tissue (tissue from the patient’s body).

Often done simultaneously with the mastectomy or as a staged procedure.

Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy and Axillary Lymph Node Dissection

These procedures determine whether cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes.

Dubai’s advanced facilities offer all these surgical options, often coupled with personalized pre-operative consultations and post-operative care to ensure the best outcomes.

The Role of Advanced Technology in Dubai’s Breast Cancer Surgeries

Dubai’s hospitals leverage cutting-edge medical technologies for breast cancer treatment. From robotic-assisted surgeries to 3D imaging and intraoperative radiation therapy, these advancements ensure higher precision, reduced complications, and quicker recovery times. Patients benefit from minimally invasive approaches that minimize scarring and promote faster healing.

Preparing for Breast Cancer Surgery in Dubai

Initial ConsultationPatients undergo a detailed consultation with an oncologist and surgeon. This includes diagnostic tests like mammograms, biopsies, and MRI scans to determine the best course of action.

Pre-Surgery Guidelines

Maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine as advised.

Discuss medications, allergies, and any ongoing treatments with the doctor.

Arrange post-surgery care, as some procedures require assistance during recovery.

Customized Treatment PlansHospitals in Dubai tailor surgical plans based on the patient’s unique needs, medical history, and preferences. This personalized approach enhances patient confidence and satisfaction.

Post-Surgery Recovery and Support

Hospital StayDepending on the type of surgery, patients may need to stay in the hospital for one to two days. Advanced facilities ensure comfort and privacy during this period.

Follow-Up AppointmentsRegular check-ups post-surgery are crucial to monitor recovery and address any complications.

Support ServicesDubai offers comprehensive support services, including counseling, physical therapy, and nutritional guidance to aid recovery.

Managing Side Effects

Pain and fatigue are common after surgery but can be managed with prescribed medications.

Rehabilitation programs help patients regain strength and mobility.

Why Choose Dubai for Breast Cancer Surgery?

Expert SurgeonsDubai boasts a team of highly skilled oncologists and surgeons, many of whom have trained and worked in leading international institutions.

State-of-the-Art FacilitiesHospitals in Dubai are equipped with the latest medical technologies, ensuring precision and safety in breast cancer surgeries.

Focus on Patient ComfortFrom luxury hospital rooms to multilingual staff and streamlined processes, patient care in Dubai is unparalleled.

AffordabilityCompared to Western countries, Dubai offers competitive pricing for world-class medical treatments. Many hospitals provide all-inclusive packages, covering surgery, aftercare, and accommodations.

Cost of Breast Cancer Surgery in Dubai

The cost of breast surgery dubai varies depending on the type of procedure, hospital, and additional services required. Lumpectomies and sentinel lymph node biopsies are generally less expensive than mastectomies or reconstructive surgeries. Patients are encouraged to discuss costs during consultations and explore financing or insurance options.

Conclusion

Breast skin change treatment in dubai is a life-saving procedure, and Dubai stands out as a leading destination for advanced, compassionate care. With top-tier facilities, expert medical professionals, and patient-focused services, Dubai ensures that individuals facing breast cancer receive the best possible treatment.

[gynoncologist]

Mastectomy and Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: Advanced Cancer Treatments by Dr. Nazish Khalid

When it comes to breast cancer treatment, advancements in surgical procedures have made significant strides, offering patients better outcomes and a quicker recovery. Among the most common and effective surgical interventions for breast cancer are mastectomy and sentinel lymph node biopsy. These procedures play a crucial role in diagnosing, treating, and managing breast cancer, and when performed by an expert, they can have life-changing effects for patients. Dr. Nazish Khalid, a renowned female Gynae Oncology Surgeon, has been at the forefront of this field, delivering compassionate care with outstanding expertise.

Mastectomy: What It Is and When It Is Needed

Mastectomy refers to the surgical removal of one or both breasts, typically as part of the treatment for breast cancer. Depending on the extent of the cancer and the patient’s medical history, various types of mastectomies are performed. These include:

Total Mastectomy (Simple Mastectomy): Removal of the entire breast.

Modified Radical Mastectomy: Removal of the breast along with the lymph nodes in the underarm (axillary nodes).

Radical Mastectomy: Removal of the breast, axillary lymph nodes, and chest muscles (though this procedure is less common today).

Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: An Essential Procedure in Breast Cancer Diagnosis

Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB) is a procedure performed to determine whether cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, which are the first places where cancer is likely to spread from the breast. The sentinel lymph nodes are the first few lymph nodes that drain lymphatic fluid from the breast and are often the most likely sites for metastasis in breast cancer.

Dr. Nazish Khalid is known for her expertise in conducting sentinel lymph node biopsies with accuracy and care. By using the most advanced imaging techniques and tools, she ensures that the procedure is as efficient and minimally invasive as possible, contributing to improved recovery times and outcomes for her patients.

Why Choose Dr. Nazish Khalid?

Dr. Nazish Khalid stands out as one of the leading female Gynae Oncology Surgeons specializing in mastectomy and sentinel lymph node biopsy. Her patients benefit from her:

Expert Knowledge and Skills: With years of training and experience in gynecologic oncology, Dr. Khalid is a pioneer in providing the latest surgical interventions for breast cancer, including mastectomy and sentinel lymph node biopsy.

Compassionate Patient Care: As a highly respected female surgeon, Dr. Khalid brings a unique understanding of the emotional and physical challenges that women face when undergoing cancer treatment. She offers a holistic approach, ensuring patients feel heard, supported, and well-informed about their treatment options.

Minimally Invasive Techniques: Dr. Khalid is committed to utilizing the latest, most advanced, and minimally invasive techniques to ensure a quicker recovery and fewer complications for her patients.

Comprehensive Treatment Plans: Beyond just surgery, Dr. Khalid works closely with a team of oncologists, radiologists, and therapists to create personalized treatment plans that encompass every aspect of breast cancer care, including post-surgery support.

Proven Success Rates: Dr. Khalid’s expertise has led to exceptional outcomes for her patients, offering not only effective cancer removal but also a better quality of life post-surgery.

[arrangoiz]

Primary Breast Lymphoma

Current management strategies for primary breast lymphoma: Are largely based on results published in small, single-institution series Historically, primary breast lymphoma was treated with: Modified radical mastectomy with or without adjuvant chemotherapy or radiotherapy Treatment strategies had focused on: Anthracycline-based chemotherapy with or without consolidative radiotherapy Current…

[painspecialistindelhisblog]

 Breast cancer is a common cancer among women worldwide. A variety of problems can occur during treatment, and persisting pain after surgery is one such issue. It can affect 20% to 50% of women after mastectomy (operation involving removal of breast) and is defined as pain in the chest, armpit, upper arm, and shoulder persisting for more than 3 months post-surgery. 

Treating this pain is important as persisting pain besides causing suffering, can negatively impact on mood, sleep, activities of daily living, social interactions, and overall quality of life. Reduced working ability and financial implications are obvious consequences as shown in one study where 54% of individuals reported reducing their workload to part-time as a direct result of pain.

 As the survivorship is increasing, enabled by the technological advancements in medicine, the focus needs to be equally on quality of life and reducing suffering. Phantom breast sensation (where one feels that the removed breast is still present) has an even higher incidence (60–80% of patients). 

The actual problem and pain may be underreported due to reasons such as worries about cancer reoccurrence, barriers in discussing personal issues, fear of being misconstrued etc.

Another subgroup of patients undergoing mastectomy are those who want to reduce their risk of developing breast cancer such as those with gene mutations (e.g., BRCA1, BRCA2) and a strong family history. Advances in surgical treatment like breast-conserving approaches have enabled patients to realistically consider this option.

Who are at risk of developing persisting pain ?

Some factors associated with increased risk of persisting pain include:

Type of surgery: Nerve preservation approaches are associated with reduced incidence of sensory deficits (53 % vs. 84 %) but may not be possible in all cases.

Different breast cancer surgery options include

Radical mastectomy — involves removing the breast, skin, fat, chest muscles (pectoralis major and minor), and all the lymph nodes of the affected side.

Modified radical mastectomy spares the chest (pectoral) muscles when compared to the surgery mentioned previously.

Lumpectomy with axillary node dissection involves removal of the tumour with surrounding margin of normal tissue and the axillary (armpit) lymph nodes.

Breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) also known as breast preservation, conservative breast surgery, wide local excision, partial mastectomy is generally used in early breast cancer and involves removal of the tumour and a margin of normal tissue.

Lumpectomy with sentinel lymph node biopsy involves removal and examination of the first axillary node (sentinel node) receiving drainage from the breast. The node is identified by injection of a special dye/ radiolabeled substance prior to the operation. If this node is free of disease, axillary dissection is not required.

Axillary nodes dissection leads to increased chances of lymphedema (arm swelling due to inadequate drainage) and poses risks to one of the nerves (intercostobrachial nerve) which is responsible for the sensation of the inner aspect of the upper arm. Both of these factors can become a source of persisting pain. The wide variation in the size, location, and branching patterns of the nerve make it more vulnerable to injury. Damage may occur as a result of stretching during surgery or direct nerve injury, presenting with numbness and pain in the area supplied by the nerve. As per one study women with axillary node dissection are 3.1 times more likely to experience moderate-to-severe pain at rest.

Other nerves in the area are also at risk of injury and can become a source of persisting pain. These include

Medial cutaneous nerve of the arm (provides sensation to the lower medial skin of the upper arm (damaged during section of the tributaries of the axillary vein)

Medial and lateral pectoral nerves (control the chest wall or pectoral muscles)

Long thoracic nerve (controls the serratus anterior muscle present along the side of chest wall close to armpit)

Thoracodorsal nerve (controls the latissimus dorsi muscle)

Other treatments like radiation therapy administered in conjunction with surgery increase risk of persisting pain. This may be due to increased tissue fibrosis, neural entrapment, and impaired shoulder movement. Moreover, radiotherapy also increases risk for lymphedema which is another reason for persisting pain. Later-stage disease also is likely to require more aggressive treatment (i.e., chemotherapy) and may be associated with higher rates of pain. Regardless these are necessary treatments and when indicated should be pursued.

Pre-existing pain prior to surgery is one of the most consistent factors related to increased risk of persisting cancer pain after surgery. Even those patients with unrelated pain conditions such as headaches or low back pain are more likely to develop chronic pain after surgery.

Severe pain after the operation requiring high doses of painkillers increases the likelihood of persisting pain.

Age: In several studies, younger age was seen to be associated with greater likelihood of persistent pain. Although the exact reason is not known, some postulated factors include presence of more aggressive cancers requiring more aggressive treatment, higher preoperative anxiety, and the need for adjuvant chemotherapy in this group.

Psychosocial distress can be both a risk factor for and a consequence of chronic pain. Preoperative anxiety has been found to be related with immediate postoperative pain levels. Numerous studies have found correlations between persisting pain after surgery and depression, stress, and psychological vulnerability.

What are the symptoms of postmastectomy pain syndrome?

Postmastectomy pain syndrome may cause persistent or intermittent burning, shooting, stabbing, pulling, tightness, heaviness sensation or aching pain. 

Other symptoms in addition to pain may include

Numbness

Tingling or prickling pain

Increased sensitivity in the area

Spasms

Severe itching

Phantom breast sensation & pain

Struggling with pain after Breast Cancer Sugery

[doctorrachelwellner]

An Overview of Common Breast Surgeries

The American Society of Breast Surgeons (ASBrS) is dedicated to advancing the practice of breast surgery in the United States. Women and men can undergo several types of breast surgery, including cancer procedures, preventative medical procedures, and cosmetic surgeries.

A lumpectomy is one of the two primary surgical procedures designed to remove cancerous or otherwise abnormal tissue from the breast. Also known as an excisional biopsy or quadrantectomy, a lumpectomy involves a surgeon making incisions in the breast and removing the unhealthy tissue, as well as a portion of the surrounding healthy tissue. Medical professionals recommend lumpectomy procedures as an early stage cancer treatment, though the surgery can also be used to rule out a cancer diagnosis.

A lumpectomy procedure is also referred to as breast-conserving surgery. This contrasts with a mastectomy, which involves the complete removal of a breast. The surgery is a form of both cancer treatment and cancer prevention, though it is typically only used as a preventive measure for high-risk patients. A total mastectomy involves the complete removal of the breast, including the nipple and areola, and the majority of the overlying skin, while modified radical mastectomies and radical mastectomies also remove surrounding tissue, such as lymph nodes.

In recent years, surgeons have developed additional strategies for mastectomy procedures. Skin-sparing mastectomy surgery is similar to a total mastectomy. However, surgeons attempt to preserve as much of the overlying skin as possible. A nipple-sparing mastectomy procedure, or total skin-sparing mastectomy surgery, is similar, with a focus on preserving the nipple and areola. More research is needed to determine whether these methods are effective for removing and preventing the spread of cancer.

Medical professionals may suggest breast surgery as a means of removing various non-cancerous breast lumps. A fibroadenoma, for example, is a common benign tumor that typically forms in individuals between the ages of 15 and 35. They do not increase a person’s likelihood of developing breast cancer later in life. Other non-cancerous lumps include breast cysts, mastitis, papillomas, and atypical hyperplasia.

Breast reduction surgery, or reduction mammoplasty, can be a non-cosmetic or cosmetic procedure. If a person’s breasts are large or out of proportion with their body, they can cause several physical problems, including chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain. Cosmetic benefits of reduction mammoplasty include increased self-esteem. Both cosmetic and non-cosmetic breast reduction procedures can benefit patients assigned either female or male at birth. Male reduction mammoplasty procedures are less common, but can benefit individuals living with conditions such as gynecomastia, a condition defined by abnormally large breast tissue in males.

Regardless of the reason, a reduction mammoplasty involves removing breast fat, tissue, and skin. Patients will discuss a healthier, more comfortable breast size with doctors during a preoperative consultation. Surgeons will provide a comprehensive overview of the process, including vitamins to take before the surgery and during recovery.

Approximately 365,000 Americans received breast augmentation surgery in 2021, up 44 percent from 2020. Mastopexy procedures, or breast lifts, ranked as the fourth most common cosmetic surgery. Roughly 148,000 women had breast implants replaced, a 32 percent increase from 2020, while 71,000 individuals had implants removed and not replaced, a 47 percent increase.

[indiamedicaltourism]

Breast Cancer Surgery in India for Foreign Patients

In breast cancer, there is a lump that is formed in breast tissue. It is majorly common in women and some cases, it is also found in men. In breast cancer, the lump that is formed in the breast mutates and then gets converted into Cancerous cells. Many early symptoms give warning signs like lump in the breast, pain, bleeding discharge from the nipple, there can be a lump in the armpit, shape, and size of the nipple might change however breast cancer is very common in women these days treatment and breast cancer surgery have the maximum success rate as modern techniques, advanced machineries, and treatment helps the team to diagnose breast on time to give effective treatment to increase life span of the patient. Treatment of breast cancer depends upon the stage of lump that is formed. When the cancer is detected in its first stage it means early diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer at an early stage is highly effective in treatment. If the breast cancer is left untreated at the right time it can spread all over the body and then it can be dangerous. However, people with breast cancer survive better than any other type of cancer patient.

Cost of Breast Cancer Surgery in India: The breast cancer surgery cost depends upon the type and stage of cancer. Many tests have to be done before the surgery. It also includes biopsies, PET CT, pre and post-surgery chemotherapies, radiotherapies, etc.

Breast Cancer                                           is Rs 122300 to Rs 155600 approximately.

Chemotherapy                                           Rs 45400 to Rs 58100 approximately.

Breast Cancer Surgical                                      Rs 122300 to Rs 155600 approximately.

Modified Radical Mastectomy                            Rs 118770 to Rs 147840 approximately.

Breast Reconstruction with Muscle Skin Flap             Rs 188700 to Rs 265300 approximately.

Breast Biopsy                                           Rs 21200 to Rs 28500 approximately.

Mastectomy                                              Rs 132200 to Rs 176400 approximately.

Best Breast Cancer Surgery Hospitals in India: Hospitals in India have a team of dedicated experts for the breast cancer surgery. It has the best of the machinery and equipment to give the best results in breast cancer surgery. Since India has the maximum success rate in breast cancer surgery it becomes possible with the help of the techniques used by the expert oncologist. It also has best of the chemotherapies and radiotherapies to complete the treatment.

Top Breast Cancer Surgeons in India: Oncologists in India is known for their treatments and surgery. They are well known surgeons with high end degrees in breast cancer surgery and post surgery treatments like chemotherapy, radiotherapy, etc. There is a team of doctors that deal together to treat a patient. Hence they are popular for their success rate in the surgery in India. 

Al Afiya Medi Tour is a leading medical tourism company in India. We offer medical tourism services such as finding the right doctor, the right hospital, and cost estimation etc. Some of the main countries are Bangladesh, South Africa, Egypt, Uganda, Zambia, Sudan, Dubai, Namibia, Iraq, Kenya, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and so on. We provide free medical assistance for TURP surgery cost, lung cancer treatment, stomach cancer treatment, liver transplant cost, blood cancer treatment cost, the best hospital for heart valve replacement, heart valve surgery, arthroscopic surgery, bone marrow transplant cost, best liver transplant hospital, brain tumor surgery, cosmetic and plastic surgery, heart surgery, lung transplant, liver transplant cost, top knee replacement surgeons, top shoulder replacement surgeons, best bone marrow hospital, etc.  If you are searching for free medical and healthcare consulting to find the best hospitals and top doctors and surgeons in India for any treatment then contact us- Alafiyameditour.com.

Source: https://alafiyameditour1.blogspot.com/2024/05/breast-cancer-surgery-in-india-for.html

[breastdoctorpune1]

Comprehensive Breast Cancer Surgery in Pune: A Guide to Treatment and Care

Breast cancer is a significant health concern affecting women worldwide, including those in Pune. However, with advancements in medical technology and specialized healthcare facilities, individuals diagnosed with breast cancer in Pune have access to comprehensive treatment options, including breast cancer surgery. This guide aims to provide valuable information about breast cancer surgery in Pune, covering key aspects such as surgical procedures, treatment approaches, and post-operative care.

Understanding Breast Cancer Surgery: Breast cancer surgery involves the surgical removal of cancerous tissue from the breast, with the primary goal of removing the tumor and reducing the risk of cancer spread or recurrence. The type of breast cancer surgery recommended depends on factors such as the stage of cancer, tumor size, location, and individual patient factors.

Types of Breast Cancer Surgery: In Pune, individuals diagnosed with breast cancer may undergo various types of surgical procedures, including:

Lumpectomy: Also known as breast-conserving surgery, lumpectomy involves the removal of the cancerous lump (tumor) along with a surrounding margin of healthy tissue. This procedure aims to preserve as much of the breast as possible while ensuring complete tumor removal.

Mastectomy: Mastectomy involves the surgical removal of the entire breast affected by cancer. Depending on the extent of cancer spread and individual preferences, mastectomy may be performed as a total mastectomy (removal of the entire breast), modified radical mastectomy (removal of the breast tissue along with lymph nodes), or radical mastectomy (removal of the breast tissue, lymph nodes, and chest muscles).

Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: During breast cancer surgery, sentinel lymph node biopsy may be performed to assess the spread of cancer to nearby lymph nodes. This procedure involves the removal and examination of one or a few sentinel lymph nodes to determine if cancer has spread beyond the breast.

Surgical Oncology Centers in Pune: Pune is home to several renowned surgical oncology centers and hospitals specializing in breast cancer treatment. These centers are equipped with state-of-the-art surgical facilities, experienced surgical oncologists, multidisciplinary teams, and support staff dedicated to providing comprehensive care to individuals diagnosed with breast cancer.

Multidisciplinary Approach to Treatment: Breast cancer treatment in Pune follows a multidisciplinary approach, involving collaboration between surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, nurses, and support staff. This collaborative approach ensures personalized treatment plans tailored to individual patient needs, preferences, and cancer characteristics.

Reconstruction Options: Following breast cancer surgery, individuals may choose to undergo breast reconstruction to restore the appearance of the breast and improve body image. Breast reconstruction options may include implant-based reconstruction, autologous tissue reconstruction (using tissue from other parts of the body), or a combination of both techniques.

Post-operative Care and Recovery: After breast cancer surgery, individuals require comprehensive post-operative care and support to promote healing, minimize complications, and facilitate recovery. This may include pain management, wound care, physical therapy, emotional support, and guidance on resuming daily activities and lifestyle modifications.

Support Services and Survivorship Programs: Dealing with a breast cancer diagnosis and undergoing surgery can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Many healthcare facilities in Pune offer support services, survivorship programs, counseling, support groups, and educational resources to help individuals cope with their diagnosis, treatment, and recovery journey.

Conclusion: Breast cancer surgery in Pune offers individuals diagnosed with breast cancer access to advanced surgical techniques, specialized care, and comprehensive support services. By seeking timely medical attention, accessing specialized treatment options, and embracing a multidisciplinary approach to care, individuals can navigate their breast cancer journey with confidence and resilience, ultimately achieving optimal outcomes and quality of life.

[drrajinderkaursaggu]

The Expert Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon in Delhi Transforming Lives with Precision and Compassion - Dr. R K Saggu

When it comes to breast cancer surgery, it is crucial to find a surgeon who is experienced, compassionate, and up-to-date with the latest techniques. Dr. R K Saggu, a renowned oncoplastic breast surgeon in Delhi, is a name that resonates with trust and expertise in this field. With a focus on breast conservation surgery (BCS) and oncoplastic surgery, Dr. R K Saggu is dedicated to providing the best possible care for her patients while preserving their quality of life.

Breast Cancer Surgery: A Two-Part Approach

Breast cancer surgery involves two main components: the tumor in the breast and the nodes in the armpit (axilla). Dr. R K Saggu specializes in BCS, also known as lumpectomy, which involves the removal of the lump along with a margin of healthy breast tissue, leaving the rest of the breast intact. This approach is often combined with radiation therapy to reduce the chances of cancer recurrence.

Who is a Candidate for BCS?

BCS is suitable for women with early-stage breast cancers that meet certain criteria, such as small tumors relative to breast size, tumors in one area of the breast, and the ability to receive radiation treatments after lumpectomy. For larger tumors, chemotherapy may be given first to shrink the tumor and make BCS possible.

Modified Radical Mastectomy (MRM)

In some cases, MRM may be necessary, such as for multicentric tumors, large single tumors not shrinking with chemotherapy, BRCA 1/2 mutation-positive patients, or patient preference. MRM involves the removal of the entire breast, most of the skin, and most of the lymph nodes in the armpit. Patients typically stay in the hospital overnight and recover within two weeks.

Oncoplastic Surgery: Enhancing Cosmesis and Quality of Life

Oncoplastic surgery is a technique that combines cancer surgery with plastic surgery principles to fill up the defect and preserve the natural appearance of the breast. Dr. R K Saggu offers oncoplastic surgery to all women undergoing breast conservation surgery to improve cosmetic outcomes and enhance their quality of life.

Breast Reconstruction Surgery: Restoring Shape and Confidence

Breast reconstruction surgery is an option for women who have undergone mastectomy or breast-conserving surgery. Dr. R K Saggu ensures that her patients are aware of the possibility of breast reconstruction and its benefits for their sense of well-being. Women who choose not to undergo reconstruction can be fitted with a post-mastectomy bra and artificial breast prosthesis.

Hidden Scar Breast Surgery: Minimizing Scars and Enhancing Aesthetics

Dr. R K Saggu practices hidden scar breast surgery, an advanced approach that hides incision sites and minimizes scars. This technique can be used for nipple-sparing mastectomy or lumpectomy procedures, leaving little trace of the surgery after the incision site heals.

Wire Localisation Excisional Biopsy: Precise Cancer Removal

In some cases, wire localization excisional biopsy may be necessary to remove small cancers that cannot be felt. Using a guidewire to localize the cancer, the affected area is removed with precision, ensuring complete cancer removal and preserving healthy breast tissue.

Dr. R K Saggu: A Surgeon with a Difference

Dr. R K Saggu's expertise, compassion, and commitment to providing the best possible care for her patients make her a top choice for oncoplastic breast surgery in Delhi. With a focus on breast conservation and oncoplastic surgery, Dr. R K Saggu is dedicated to transforming lives with precision, compassion, and a commitment to excellence.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with breast cancer, it is crucial to seek the care of an experienced oncoplastic breast surgeon. Dr. R K Saggu is here to help. 

Contact Dr. R K Saggu today to learn more about her approach to breast cancer surgery and how she can help you navigate this challenging journey with compassion by Contacting us at  +91-9871056323.

[cancercareparcel]

In December 2015, I had a modified radical mastectomy for Stage 3 breast cancer with lymph node involvement. http://dlvr.it/T23CCw

[haythamelsalhat]

Understanding Breast Cancer Surgery: Types, Procedures, and Risks with Dr. Haytham El-Salhat

Breast cancer is a complex and challenging journey, and for many patients, surgery becomes a crucial component of their treatment plan. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the different types of breast cancer surgery, various procedures involved, and the associated risks. Dr. Haytham El-Salhat, a distinguished breast cancer surgeon at Mediclinic Alnoor Hospital in Abu Dhabi, is at the forefront of providing expert care.

Types of Breast Cancer Surgery:

Breast-Conserving Surgery (Lumpectomy): Breast-conserving surgery involves removing the tumor and a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue while preserving the breast. This approach is often suitable for early-stage breast cancer.Learn more: Breast Cancer Surgery

Mastectomy: Mastectomy involves the complete removal of the breast. Various types of mastectomy exist, including total (simple) mastectomy, modified radical mastectomy, and radical mastectomy.Explore further: Breast Cancer

Breast Reconstruction: For those undergoing mastectomy, breast reconstruction is an option to restore the breast's appearance. Dr. Haytham El-Salhat specializes in advanced breast reconstruction techniques.Discover more: Breast Reconstruction

Procedures Involved in Breast Cancer Surgery:

Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: In cases where breast cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes, a sentinel lymph node biopsy is performed to determine the extent of lymph node involvement.

Axillary Lymph Node Dissection: If cancer is detected in the sentinel nodes, or if additional nodes need evaluation, an axillary lymph node dissection may be recommended.

Breast Reconstruction Techniques: Breast reconstruction can be achieved through various methods, including implants, autologous tissue transfer (flap surgery), or a combination of both.Dive into details: Breast Reconstruction

Risks Associated with Breast Cancer Surgery:

Infection: Any surgical procedure carries a risk of infection. Patients are given antibiotics to minimize this risk.

Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after surgery is a potential risk. Surgeons take precautions to control bleeding during the procedure.

Scarring: Scarring is inevitable with breast surgery, but skilled surgeons like Dr. Haytham El-Salhat strive to minimize scarring and ensure optimal aesthetic outcomes.

Change in Sensation: Breast surgery may result in changes in sensation, including numbness or increased sensitivity in the treated area.Learn about the screening process: Breast Cancer Screening

Dr. Haytham El-Salhat: Leading Breast Cancer Surgeon in Abu Dhabi

A beacon of hope for breast cancer patients, Dr. Haytham El-Salhat combines skill, compassion, and innovation in his approach to breast cancer surgery. Located at Mediclinic Alnoor Hospital in Abu Dhabi, Dr. El-Salhat is dedicated to providing personalized care tailored to each patient's unique needs.

Contact Dr. El-Salhat at +971-504492281 or visit his website for more information.

Conclusion:

Breast cancer surgery is a critical aspect of the treatment journey, and understanding the different types, procedures, and associated risks is crucial for informed decision-making. Dr. Haytham El-Salhat's expertise in breast cancer surgery, coupled with advanced techniques, ensures that patients receive the best possible care in their fight against breast cancer.

For those in Abu Dhabi seeking comprehensive breast cancer care, Mediclinic Alnoor Hospital stands as a beacon of hope, with Dr. Haytham El-Salhat leading the way.

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information about breast cancer surgery and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance tailored to your specific situation.

[drsoumendas]

Facts about modified radical mastectomy

"One of the most effective surgical treatments for breast cancer is modified radical mastectomy. Read on to know some key facts about the procedure from the best cancer doctor in Kolkata."

Learn More: Breast cancer doctor in Kolkata

[mvarsha]

Breast Conservation Surgery

When it comes to breast cancer we are here to help you- * Breast Conservation Surgery * Breast Oncoplastic Surgery * Sentinel lymph node mapping for axillary nodes * Modified radical mastectomy * (+/- plastic surgery)

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[oncologistseemasingh]

Dr. Seema Singh is a female oncologist, specializes in surgical oncology and has gained valuable experience treating various types of cancer, such as ovarian, breast, and uterine cancer.

She is actively engaged in performing the entire range of surgeries recommended for breast cancer including modified radical mastectomies, breast conservation surgeries, onco-plastic breast conservation surgeries, mastectomies with immediate reconstruction, sentinel lymph node biopsies and excision of stereotactically localized lesions etc.

Get expert guidance from renowned cancer specialist, Dr. Seema Singh through our online consultation service. Schedule your personalized session today and take the first step towards healing.