Breast cancer is the uncontrolled growth of breast cells. It the result of mutations, or abnormal changes, in the genes that regulate the growth of cells and keep them healthy. Genes are found in the nucleus of cells, which acts as the "control room" for each cell. Normally, the body's cells are renewed by a specific process called cell growth: new, healthy cells take the place of old, dying cells. <u>But over time, mutations can "turn on" certain genes and "turn off" others in a cell. The modified cell acquires the ability to divide without any control or order, thus producing more of the same cells and generating a tumor.</u>
Social support is important to stay encouraged to face the disease. So it is important to participate in social activities. Most friends and family will be happy to schedule quiet activities, such as going to the movies or organizing lunch at home. <u>All this allows the sick person to think about something else, to keep up their spirits and thus have more strength and energy to get through the illness and its treatment.</u>
