breast cancer

What You Need To Know About Breast Cancer

This National Cancer Institute (NCI) booklet has important information about breast cancer. Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women in this country (other than skin cancer). Each year, more than 211,000 American women learn they have this disease.

tips and advice

Breast Cancer Treatment Guidelines for Patients

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This information represents the views of the doctors and nurses serving on the American Cancer Society's Cancer Information Database Editorial Board. These views are based on their interpretation of studies published in medical journals, as well as their own professional experience.

The treatment information in this document is not official policy of the Society and is not intended as medical advice to replace the expertise and judgment of your cancer care team. It is intended to help you and your family make informed decisions, together with your doctor.

Your doctor may have reasons for suggesting a treatment plan different from these general treatment options. Don't hesitate to ask him or her questions about your treatment options.

Detailed Guide: Breast Cancer
How Is Breast Cancer Diagnosed ?

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If screening tests or your signs and symptoms suggest breast cancer, your doctor will use one or more methods to determine if the disease is present and to evaluate the stage of the cancer.

Signs and Symptoms

Although widespread use of screening mammograms has increased the number of breast cancers found before they cause any symptoms, some breast cancers are not found by mammogram, either because the test was not done or because, even under ideal conditions, mammograms do not find every breast cancer.

The most common sign of breast cancer is a new lump or mass. A painless, hard mass that has irregular edges is more likely to be cancerous, but some cancers are tender, soft, and rounded.