Breast Biopsy: What You Should Know
You have a lump or some other change in your breast. Most breast lumps or other changes are not cancer. However, to be sure, your doctor tells you that a biopsy must be done. What is a Biopsy?
Breast Cancer Glossary
Some definitions to help you understand certain words and terms found in the articles in this section
Breast Cancer: General Info
Breast cancer is a disease in which cancer cells grow in the breast. Normally, the cells of the breast divide in a regulated manner. If cells keep dividing when new cells are not needed, a mass of tissue forms. This mass is called a tumour. A tumour can be benign or malignant.
Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. The drugs enter the bloodstream and travel through the body in order to kill cancer cells. The side effects from the chemotherapy come from the fact that it destroys normal cells as well.
Diagnosis of Breast Cancer
Your doctor will discuss your medical history, including any family history of breast cancer. Your breasts will be examined for characteristic symptoms, including lumps or thickening, nipple discharge or inversion, redness or changes in the skin or contour of the breast. If breast cancer is suspected, the following tests will be performed:
Lifestyle Changes to Manage Breast Cancer
Certain lifestyle changes may help you manage your cancer and are important for overall quality of health.
Medications for Breast Cancer
The information provided here is meant to give you a general idea about each of the medications listed below. Only the most general side effects are included, so ask your health care provider if you need to take any special precautions.
Other Treatments for Breast Cancer
Biological and Hormonal therapies are the other accepted direct therapies for breast cancer. Each still carry significant sideeffects and risks, but are easier on your body than chemotherapy.
Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer
There are several forms of radiation therapy that can be used to treat cancer. These include:
Risk Factors for Breast Cancer
It is possible to develop breast cancer with or without the risk factors listed below. However, the more risk factors you have, the greater your likelihood of developing breast cancer. If you have a number of risk factors, ask your health care provider what you can do to reduce your risk.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Early breast cancer usually does not cause physical pain, and symptoms may not initially be noticeable. As the cancer grows, it can cause changes that include: