Breast Cancer

Navigating Your Diagnosis

Breast cancer originates in the cells of the breast, usually in the milk ducts or lobules. Women are often the most commonly affected, but it can also occur in men. Breast cancer widely varies in its characteristics, including the types of cells included, growth rate, and its potential to spread to other parts of the body.

Types of Breast Cancer

Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)

Abnormal cells found in the lining of a breast duct but have not invaded surrounding tissues.

Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)

Cancer cells invade nearby tissues and can spread to other parts of the body.

Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)

Cancer begins in the milk-producing glands (lobules) and can spread to nearby tissues.

Triple-Negative Breast Cancer, HER2-Positive, and Hormone Receptor-Positive

Subtypes based on the presence or absence of certain receptors that influence treatment options.

What you need to know

From recognizing the symptoms to diving into treatment options, here is what you need to know in order to stay informed about your health:

Prevention

It’s not possible to completely prevent breast cancer, but there are lifestyle choices and strategies to help reduce the risk of developing the disease. Please note these strategies and recommendations cannot guarantee complete prevention, and if you are concerned about your likelihood of developing breast cancer, please consult with your healthcare provider for guidance based on your history and risk factors. Here are some strategies to help prevent breast cancer: maintain a healthy lifestyle, stay active, know your family’s history, regular self and clinical breast exams, and participate in regular mammography screenings.

Risk Factors

Gender: While breast cancer can occur in men, it is more common in women.

Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age, and it is most frequently diagnosed in women aged 50 and older.

Family History and Genetics: Having close relatives (mother, sister, daughter) with a history of breast cancer may increase the risk. Certain gene mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, are associated with a higher risk.

Hormonal Factors: Prolonged exposure to estrogen, whether through early onset of menstruation, late menopause, or hormone replacement therapy, may increase the risk.

Symptoms

The following is not an all-inclusive list of symptoms but may include: a lump in the breast or underarm; a change in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast; unexplained pain in the breast or nipple; skin changes such as redness, dimpling, or puckering.

Diagnosis

Mammography: X-ray imaging of the breast to detect abnormalities.

Biopsy: Removal of a sample of tissue for examination under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer and determine its type and characteristics.

Treatment

Surgery: Lumpectomy (removal of the tumor and a small margin of surrounding tissue) or mastectomy (removal of the entire breast) may be performed.

Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays target and destroy cancer cells after surgery.

Chemotherapy: Medications that kill or slow the growth of cancer cells.

Hormone Therapy: Targeting hormonal receptors to block the effects of estrogen or progesterone.

Targeted Therapy: Drugs targeting specific molecules involved in cancer growth, such as HER2.

Frequently Asked Questions

View All FAQ's
How does breast cancer start?

Answer: All cancers begin when cells in the body grow and divide abnormally. Some gene changes allow these cells to survive and grow, leading to cancer.

When should I test for breast cancer, and how often?

Answer: Routine checkups allow for appropriate screening. If you have a family history, you may need earlier or more frequent screenings. Schedule an appointment to determine what’s right for you.

How is breast cancer diagnosed and staged?

Answer: Cancer is diagnosed through tests to determine size and whether it has spread. Lower stages indicate limited spread, while higher stages indicate more advanced disease.

What happens after breast cancer treatment?

Answer: Ongoing care and side effects vary. Schedule an appointment to explore a survivorship plan tailored to your needs.