Breast Cancer

 

Breast cance starts in the cells of the breast as a group of cancer cells that can then invade surrounding tissues or spread (metastasize) to other areas of the body.  Breast cancer occurs when malignant tumors develop in the breast. These cells can spread by breaking away from the original tumor and entering blood vessels or lymph vessels, which branch into tissues throughout the body. When cancer cells travel to other parts of the body and begin damaging other tissues and organs, the process is called metastasis.

 

Symptoms

Most people who have breast cancer symptoms and signs will initially notice only one or two, and the presence of these symptoms and signs do not automatically mean that you have breast cancer.By performing monthly breast self-exams, you will be able to more easily identify any changes in your breast. Be sure to talk to your healthcare professional if you notice anything unusual.

Symptoms may include a chnage in how the breast ot nipple feels, a change in how a breast or nipple appearance or any nipple discharge, particularly clear discharge or bloody discharge. If you have any of these symptoms, you should tell your healthcare provider so that the problem can bediagnosed and treated.

 

Outlook - Prognosis 

Breast cancer is the second most lethal cancer in women. (Lung cancer is the leading cancer killer in women.) The good news is that early detection and new treatments have improved survival rates. The 5-year survival rate for women diagnosed with cancer is 80%. About Unfortunately, women in lower social and economic groups still have significantly lower survival rates than women in higher groups. The good news is that women are living longer with breast cancer. Due to better treatment options, breast cancer mortality rates declined by about 25% since 1990. However, survivors must live with the uncertainties of possible recurrent cancer and some risk for complications from the treatment itself. Recurrences of cancer usually develop within 5 years of treatment. About 25% of recurrences and half of new cancers in the opposite breast occur after 5 years. 

 

Support Groups

You can ease the stress of illness by joining a prostate cancer support group. Sharing with others who have common experiences and problems can help you not feel alone.  Please contact Circle of Hope Inc. for our support meeting schedule. (661) 254-5218