Breast cancer is referred to as a malignant tumour that begins in the cells of the breast. Although it is most prevalent in woman, there are cases where men have been diagnosed (Canadian Cancer Society, 2014). Breast cancer is a complex disease and there are many factors that play a role in its development. Risk factors can be divided into two groups, ones we have influence over and the ones we don't. Risk factors that are influenced by our lifestyle choices, and could potentially increase the risk of breast cancer are certain types of birth control, having kids at a later age, diet, alcohol consumption, obesity, and exposure to specific chemicals in the environment. Risk factors that we unfortunately do not have any influence over include, gender, age, race, genetic mutations and family history (Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, 2014). Although it is quite normal for people's breasts to change during different stages of life, such as during puberty and pregnancy, it is encouraged that individuals be "breast aware." It is important for people to know how their breasts normally look and feel in order to recognize any abnormal changes and potentially discuss them with their health care provider (Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, 2014).
Vitamin D Background .
In its hormonal form, known as calcitriol or 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1, 25D), vitamin D has a prevalent function in the increase of plasma calcium and phosphate levels. The elevations of these micronutrients are required for the maintenance and mineralization of bone, nerve transmission, hormonal secretion and functioning of the neuromuscular junction (Ross et al., 2011). Plasma ionized calcium levels are altered to normal range by three mechanisms directed by calcitriol. The first mechanism, which does not require parathyroid hormone (PTH), directly stimulates intestinal calcium absorption throughout the entire length of the intestine, thus indirectly activating phosphate absorption.
