A mammogram is a diagnostic tool for breast cancer. It helps doctors detect the cancer in its earliest stages, making treatment easier. Women who are at high risk of developing breast cancer should see their doctor at the first sign of symptoms. They may be prescribed medicine or undergo surgery to reduce their risk. This can save their lives. Here are some tips to help you reduce your risk. And don’t forget to mention the results of your mammogram to your friends and family!
The most common types of breast cancer include invasive lobular carcinoma and non-invasive ductal carcinoma. The former begins in the milk ducts and invades surrounding tissues. The latter type is more aggressive and results in a tumor. The former type of cancer often grows slowly and may not be detectable for more than 10 years, while the latter is aggressive. The risk of getting breast cancer increases as a person ages. If you have a family history of breast cancer, it’s best to consult a doctor as soon as possible.
Biopsies are another diagnostic test that your healthcare provider may perform. Biopsies can be done by needle or incision, and the results will be sent to a laboratory for testing. These images will reveal whether you have cancer or not. Depending on the type of cancer, your treatment will be determined by the stage, invasion, and sensitivity of the biopsy sample. For more information, ask your healthcare provider about biopsy options. They will likely recommend various treatment options for you based on the results of the test.
Radiation therapy is another treatment for breast cancer. In this treatment, medicines are used to kill cancer cells. It is often combined with surgery to shrink the tumor. Radiation therapy, radiation, and hormonal therapy are also used. All of these treatments have side effects. However, the choice is yours. If you’re worried about the side effects of radiation therapy, consider talking to your healthcare provider about your symptoms and your options. You’ll be glad you did!
To determine the grade of your breast cancer, you’ll need to know what stage it is. The size of the tumor and the number of lymph nodes it has spread to is important. Larger tumors have larger stage numbers and a worse prognosis. There are three grades of breast cancer: stage 0, intermediate grade, and high grade. Each grade has its advantages and disadvantages. Once you know your risk, you can begin treatment.
Surgery is a common treatment for breast cancer. Depending on the stage of your cancer, you can undergo different types of surgeries. A lumpectomy is a partial mastectomy that removes the tumor and a thin rim of healthy breast tissue. A quadrantectomy is a complete breast removal. A modified radical mastectomy, or MRM, preserves the pectoralis muscle. A mastectomy is another treatment option, although it involves removing the entire breast. Another option is a nipple-sparing mastectomy, which removes just the breast, leaving the pectoralis muscle intact. Some women undergo immediate reconstruction after the operation, while others undergo a delayed reconstruction.
