Breast Cancer Information

Breast cancer has become one of the most prevalent issues in women’s health, and its severity is variable.

Often, patients with breast cancer will undergo local treatment, which means treatment is targeted to the specific area of the cancer – the breast and surrounding lymph nodes. The cancer is removed in a procedure known as a lumpectomy (where only the cancerous tissue is removed) or a mastectomy (where the entire breast is removed). Depending on diagnosis, radiation may be used in accompaniment to these procedures.

Systemic treatment, which includes chemotherapy, hormone therapies and / or immune therapy, is used when a patient is at risk for having the cancer spread to different areas of the body.

Early detection is key in breast cancer – it is recommended that women over 40 undergo annual mammograms, and all women should conduct regular self-examinations. Talk to your doctor about the proper method.

5 Things You Need to Know

  1. By the end of 2007, it is expected that over 175,000 new instances of breast cancer will be diagnosed – it is the most frequent form of cancer in women.

  2. Breast cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in women (behind lung cancer), however instances of occurrence are showing a decline for the first time.
  3. A doctor-performed mammogram can catch breast cancer much earlier than any self-examination. Early detection can save lives. Mammograms have been shown to catch 80 to 90 percent of all breast cancers, even when the patient has no symptoms.
  4. Lumpectomy with radiation has provided similar success rates in treatment as mastectomy.
  5. Age is considered one of the highest risk factors of breast cancer.

3 Questions You Need to Ask Your Doctor

  1. Am I at risk for breast cancer? Based on your family history, health and lifestyle, your doctor will be able to examine your risk factor potential, and help you take preventative measures.
  2. If I do have breast cancer, which treatment option is right for me? Your diagnosis, health condition and emotions will all play a role in determining the best treatment for breast cancer.
  3. If I need surgery, what can I expect? Often, women will expect to hear the worst after diagnosis, but surgical procedures in this field have advanced enormously in the past decade. Talking to your doctor can help alleviate some of the fear and anxiety associated with the disease.

Also Known As: Mammogram, lumpectomy, mastectomy

Your health is too important to take lightly. The information on this website is intended to start you down the path to living well, but it’s only just the beginning.

Each of us is unique, and we all deserve the individual attention that only a health care professional can provide. So do what’s in your best interest - take the next step and find doctors or surgeons in your area today.