Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the second most common form of cancer in women, after skin cancers. Each year in the United States, more than 180,000 women are diagnosed with this disease, of which 44,000 will die.

But there is good news. Breast cancer mortality rates are declining, while the five-year survival rate is climbing. This can be attributed to a number of factors, including an increase in early detection of problems through breast exams and mammograms, better treatment, medicines that help prevent breast cancer in high-risk women, and a decrease in hormone therapy (HT).

Risk factors  |  Symptoms  |  Screenings and Tests  |  Treatment Options  |  Videos  |  More Health Information

Risk factors

The risk of developing breast cancer increases as you get older. While having a family member (a mother or sister) who has been diagnosed with breast cancer may increase your risk, 90 percent of breast cancers occur in women with no family history of the disease. Here are some important guidelines to help reduce your risk:

• Maintain a low-fat diet - including fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
• Drink alcohol in moderation - Regular use of even a small amount of alcohol - liquor, beer or wine- has been shown to increase breast cancer risk.
• Exercise regularly - Work out, bike or walk briskly (exercises to raise your heart rate) three or more times a week.
• Know your family history - A history of breast cancer or other cancers in a close relative may influence your own risk. Discuss this with your doctor.

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Symptoms

Early breast cancer is often detected by a mammogram before any symptoms are present. However, there are some signs you should watch for during a self breast exam. See your doctor if you notice any of the following:

• Any change in the breast such as the development of a lump or swelling.
• Skin irritation or dimpling.
• Nipple pain or retraction (turning inward).
• Redness or scaliness of the nipple or breast skin.
• Discharge from the nipple that is not breast milk.

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Screenings and Tests

Because 90 percent of breast cancers occur in women with no family history of the disease, it’s very important for all women to get regular mammograms. Even though there is no certain way to prevent breast cancer, you can still protect your health by establishing an early detection program.

• Perform a monthly breast self-exam, starting at age 20.
• Get a clinical breast exam. Women ages 20 to 40 should receive the exam every two years, and women 40 and older should be examined yearly.
• Get a mammogram. If you are 40 or older you should get a mammogram yearly.

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Treatment Options

Breast cancer treatment options depend on the size and location of the tumor, lab tests results, and the stage or extent of the disease. A physician also considers a woman's age, her general health, the size of her breasts, and whether she is in menopause, when making recommendations about a treatment plan. Different types of treatment options may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy or hormone therapy.
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Videos

• Early detection | Breast MRI
• Can cancer be prevented? Healthy diet and exercise may prevent breast cancer
• Breast cancer patient education videos (overview, therapies, patient stories)
• Video Library

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More Health Information

Health Library | Cancer
Health Library | Cancer prevention tips

Cancer Services at Sutter Health | cancer.sutterhealth.org
Breast Cancer Notebook | A comprehensive guide for those newly diagnosed or undergoing breast cancer treatment




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