Breast cancer

Possible risk factors for breast cancer

Breast cancer is a disease where cells in the breast tissue mutate and grow uncontrollably, forming cancerous tumors or lumps that can originate in the milk ducts, lobules that produce milk or other breast areas. While breast cancer predominantly affects women, it can also develop in men, though it is much rarer.

Understanding the genetic and lifestyle factors that place you at a higher risk of breast cancer is so important. Some possible risk factors include:

• Age — Breast cancer is most common in women ages 55 to 64.
• Alcohol consumption — Those who have two to five drinks daily have higher risk than women who don't drink alcohol.
• Breast density — As density of the breast increases, risk increases.
• Genetics — About 5–10 percent of breast cancer can be identified as genetically hereditary.
• Family history — Having a sibling, parent or child with breast cancer increases your risk.
• Obesity — Obesity after menopause increases breast cancer risk.
• Prepubescent radiation — Experiencing ionizing radiation of your breasts before puberty increases your risk.

It's a good idea to talk with your doctor regularly about your risk for breast cancer, and what proactive measures you can take to protect yourself.

Common signs of breast cancer

Although it is possible that breast cancer can develop without any noticeable signs, some of the most common symptoms of cancer include:

• Breast or nipple pain
• Change in the color or texture of your nipple or breast
• New lump or mass
• Nipple discharge that isn't breast milk
• Nipple retraction
• Skin irritation or dimpling
• Swelling in all or part of the breast
• Swollen lymph nodes under your arm or collarbone

Paying close attention to your breast health is crucial for early detection and treatment of any potential issues. If you notice any changes or have concerns, don't hesitate to bring them to your doctor's attention.

Breast cancer types and classifications

The type of breast cancer is determined by the specific cells involved and where in the breast the cancer begins. Regular, high-quality screening mammograms and clinical breast exams are the most sensitive ways to screen for breast cancer.

You can receive up to three different classifications for your breast cancer: type, grade and stage. It is important to know your specific diagnosis so you can better understand your treatment plan.

Breast cancer grade

Breast cancer grades refer to how close the biopsy sample looks to normal breast tissue and how rapidly the cancer cells are dividing. The lower the number, the slower the cancer is growing, making it less likely to spread.

Stage of breast cancer

Staging identifies if the cancer has spread within the breast or to other parts of the body.

• Stage 0 — The cancer has not spread beyond the actual tumor.
• Stage I, II & III — Stage I is smaller in size, is less likely to have lymph node involvement, and has lower risk molecular features. Stage III is larger and is more likely to have lymph node involvement or other high risk molecular features.
• Stage IV — The cancer has spread to other organs of the body, most often the bones, lungs, liver or brain.

Type of breast cancer

There are two main types of breast cancer, which differ in their points of origin in the breast.

• Ductal carcinoma — This cancer begins in the cells that line the milk ducts in the breast, also called the lining of the breast ducts.
• Lobular carcinoma — This cancer begins in the lobes, or lobules (the glands that make milk) of the breast.

For more information on breast cancer, visit the Sarah Cannon education portal.

Our breast cancer treatments and services

Breast cancer can be a complex and overwhelming diagnosis. That's why we provide a wide range of medical and support services to help you maintain your physical, emotional and mental health.

Diagnostic testing

One of the best ways to fight breast cancer is to catch it early, which is why we advocate strongly for you to schedule routine cancer screenings. Women should get screened for breast cancer every other year, starting at age 40 and continuing through age 74, to reduce their risk of dying from this disease. If you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, your doctor may recommend starting screening before age 40 or getting screened more frequently. It is important to have an open discussion about your individual risk profile.

Prevention and early discovery are the best tools we have to protect you and your health. We offer advanced imaging services to aid in the early diagnosis of breast cancer. Screening and diagnostic services offered include:

• Contrast mammography
• Diagnostic mammography
• Diagnostic ultrasound
• Screening mammography with 3D imaging

Nonsurgical breast cancer treatments

We also offer nonsurgical breast cancer treatments, including:

• Chemotherapy
• Hormone therapy
• Radiation
• Targeted therapy

If one of these options is chosen as the best treatment for you, our team of oncology experts will work with you to make sure that your recovery is as smooth as possible.

Breast cancer surgery

Our multidisciplinary team will carefully consider all aspects of your specific condition and work closely with you to develop a care plan that considers factors, such as cancer type, cancer stage, overall health status and personal preferences.

Depending on your breast cancer stage and type, surgical interventions may be recommended. Below are the types of breast procedures we perform:

• Breast-conserving surgery (BCS) — This procedure removes the cancer while leaving as much normal breast as possible. Usually, some surrounding healthy tissue and lymph nodes are also removed. BCS is sometimes called lumpectomy, quadrantectomy, partial mastectomy or segmental mastectomy depending on how much tissue is removed.
• Lymph node surgery — We remove most of or all of the lymph nodes in the armpit close to the breast. Your breast cancer surgeon will recommend the appropriate lymph node surgery based on your specific condition and diagnostic results.
• Mastectomy — A mastectomy is the surgical removal of the entire breast. You can have a unilateral mastectomy to remove one breast or a bilateral mastectomy to remove both. This is a more significant operation, and is used in more advanced cases.

Breast cancer support

We understand that a breast cancer diagnosis is not something that anyone is ever prepared for, which is why we make every effort to be there to support you and bring you the care you deserve.

Healthcare navigator services

If you receive a breast cancer diagnosis, you will be paired with one of our dedicated, certified oncology nurse navigators. These specialized healthcare professionals are experts in breast cancer care and will be your personal guides throughout the treatment journey.

Your oncology nurse navigator will help ensure you and your family receive the resources and care you need. Their responsibilities include:

• Connecting you to cancer support services
• Coordinating your care in collaboration with your oncology team
• Exploring clinical trials
• Managing your treatments
• Understanding your diagnosis

A certified oncology nurse navigator is your dedicated advocate. With their expertise, you can focus on what matters most — your recovery and well-being.

Support groups

Sometimes, you need more than just medical care. Fortunately, there are numerous support groups for you and your loved ones. Whether you are handling the diagnosis of a family member or confronting your own diagnosis, these support groups will help you feel more confident and secure in your own health. We invite you to visit our support group page, or speak with your certified oncology nurse navigator breast health navigator for more information.

About HCA Healthcare Sarah Cannon Cancer Network

Fighting cancer takes a team

HCA Healthcare Sarah Cannon Cancer Network delivers you exceptional cancer care through cutting-edge, specialized treatments, multidisciplinary collaboration and care that is tailored to you. Our teams of passionate caregivers and global oncology experts across the United States and United Kingdom offer services and expertise that extend across many types of cancer. Together with the full support of HCA Healthcare – a leading provider of cancer care and research – we’re with you and your family from diagnosis through survivorship.

askSARAH helpline

Have cancer questions? We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7, and all calls are confidential. Contact askSARAH at (615) 514-2401.