Q & A

Common treatment options include:

• Surgery:
  • Lumpectomy: This procedure removes the cancerous tumor and a small margin of surrounding tissue while preserving most of the breast.
  • Mastectomy: A mastectomy removes the entire breast, sometimes including nearby tissues such as lymph nodes.
• Radiation therapy:
  • This therapy uses high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells and is often used after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancerous tissue.
• Chemotherapy:
  • Chemotherapy, or chemo, is a systemic treatment with medications that destroy cancer cells or stop them from growing. It is often used before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink tumors or after surgery (adjuvant) to eliminate remaining cancer cells.
• Hormonal therapy:
  • This treatment is used for hormone receptor-positive breast cancers to block hormones like estrogen and progesterone that fuel cancer growth.
  • Common medications used in hormonal therapy include tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors.
• Targeted therapy:
  • This therapy targets specific characteristics of cancer cells, such as HER2-positive breast cancer, using medications like trastuzumab (Herceptin).
• Immunotherapy:
  • Immunotherapy enhances the body’s immune system to better attack breast cancer cells and is particularly used for triple-negative breast cancer in certain cases.
• Clinical trials:
  • People can participate in research studies that test new treatments or combinations of treatments, providing access to leading-edge therapies.

Each treatment plan is individualized, often combining multiple approaches to maximize effectiveness and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS)

This is a noninvasive cancer where abnormal cells are found in the lining of the breast milk duct. DCIS is considered the earliest form of breast cancer and is highly treatable. Since it hasn’t spread beyond the ducts, it is sometimes referred to as stage 0 breast cancer.

Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)

This is the most common type of breast cancer, making up about 80% of all diagnoses. IDC begins in the milk ducts and then spreads to the surrounding breast tissue, with the potential to spread to other parts of the body. Early detection and treatment are crucial for managing IDC effectively.

Lobular Carcinoma in Situ (LCIS)

Though called a carcinoma, LCIS is not a true cancer but an indicator that a person has an increased risk of developing breast cancer. Abnormal cells are found in the lobules, which are the milk-producing glands. LCIS itself doesn't spread outside the lobules, but it raises the risk of invasive breast cancer.

Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)

The second most common type of breast cancer, ILC starts in the lobules and spreads to nearby tissues. ILC can be more challenging to detect on mammograms than IDC, often appearing as a thickening in the breast rather than a lump. It’s essential to diagnose and treat ILC early to prevent it from spreading further.

There are also other less common types of breast cancer, such as inflammatory breast cancer, triple-negative breast cancer and HER2-positive breast cancer, each with unique characteristics and treatment approaches.

• Genetic factors: Inherited mutations in certain genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, significantly increase the risk of breast cancer. A family history of breast cancer can also elevate risk due to shared genetic mutations.
• Hormonal influence: Hormones play a crucial role in breast cancer development. Long-term exposure to estrogen and progesterone, such as from hormone replacement therapy or certain birth control methods, can increase your risk.
• Lifestyle factors:
  • Alcohol consumption: Regular intake of alcohol is linked to a higher risk of breast cancer. The more alcohol consumed, the greater the risk.
  • Obesity: Being overweight or obese after menopause increases breast cancer risk, likely due to higher estrogen levels produced by fat tissue.
  • Physical inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of developing breast cancer. Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and may reduce risk.
• Radiation exposure: Previous exposure to radiation, especially during childhood or young adulthood, can increase the risk of breast cancer.
• Reproductive history: Certain reproductive factors, such as having a first child at an older age, not having children or not breastfeeding, can also influence breast cancer risk.

While breast cancer can’t always be prevented, understanding these risk factors can help individuals take steps to reduce their likelihood of developing the disease. Regular screenings and healthy lifestyle choices are important preventive measures.

Early detection through regular screening mammograms can significantly improve outcomes, and it’s important to consult a health care provider if you notice anything unusual.