Overview

Breast cancer arises when irregular cells grow and multiply in the breast tissue to form a mass, called a malignant tumor. If not caught at the beginning stages, a malignant tumor can spread to surrounding tissue and other areas of the body. Although it is more commonly found in women, about 1 out of 100 cases of breast cancer occur in men.

Risk Factors

The exact cause of breast cancer is unknown, but there are some factors that increase one’s chance of developing breast cancer. Some are under your control and, unfortunately, others are not.

• Family history and genetics
• Gender – female
• Getting older
• Ethnicity
• History of radiation treatment to chest
• Gene changes
• Alcohol
• Not breastfeeding
• Not having children before the age of 30
• Being overweight or obese
• Hormone therapy after menopause

Symptoms

The best way to identify breast cancer symptoms is to schedule regular checkups with your doctor. It’s also important to give yourself frequent breast exams. If you notice any of the symptoms listed below, talk with your doctor right away.

• Lump or thickening of the breast or underarm
• Dimpling of the skin
• Change in size or shape of the breast
• An inverted nipple
• Discharge from the nipple
• Change of skin texture

Tests & Services

Depending on your level of risk, your age, or if a lump or other change is found in the breast, you may be given a mammogram and biopsy, or other diagnostic tests. The biopsy results will identify the type and stage of the cancer, if present.

• Mammogram
• Biopsy
• Ultrasound
• MRI

Treatment

Our compassionate team of oncologists, radiologists, surgical oncologists and nurses strive to give not only the best care, but also extraordinary patient support.

• Surgical Oncology (lumpectomy, mastectomy)
• Radiation Therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Reconstructive surgery