Breast cancer is a disease in which malignant cancer cells begin to grow and spread within the tissue of the breast. Although there is no definitive cause of breast cancer, there is a direct link between family history, age, and genetic predisposition. Symptoms of breast cancer can include a lump or mass in the breast, a change in the skin covering the breast, breast pain and discomfort and nipple discharge. Early diagnosis is critical and can be obtained through yearly mammograms and monthly self breast exams (SBEs). There are several early treatment options for breast cancer.
Surgery
Many patients in the early stages of breast cancer choose to undergo surgery to remove the cancerous area from the breast. In very early stages, a lumpectomy may be performed. This type of surgery removes the affected area and surrounding tissue, but preserves the breast. Lymph nodes may be removed for dissection to determine if cancer has spread beyond the breast. In more advanced cases, a partial or total mastectomy may be recommended. This is the removal of a larger portion of the breast, or the entire breast and surrounding lymph nodes. Some patients who have a small tumor may still opt for a mastectomy to reduce the risk of recurrence. The decision for which type of surgery is based on the stage of the disease and the patient's overall health. An oncologist and oncology surgeon will help each patient make a decision based on the individual case.
Chemotherapy and Medication
Some patients will undergo chemotherapy as a part of cancer treatment. Chemotherapy is the use of potent medications to kill cancer cells and keep them from spreading. Chemo can be given through a vein (intravenously) or in the form of a pill. Other medications used in the treatment of early breast cancer include hormonal therapies and targeted therapy. According to the National Cancer Institute, hormone therapy is a cancer treatment that removes hormones or blocks their action, which stops cancer cells from growing. Targeted therapy aims to kill cancer cells while protecting healthy cells.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is the use of high beam x-rays to kill cancer cells. In early breast cancer, radiation may be used to help kill any cancer cells that may have been left behind after surgery. According to Breastcancer.org., radiation can reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence by about 70%.
