Check—And Then Check Again
Aside from skin cancer, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the United States. That’s why it is so important to pay attention to the warning signs and complete annual screenings.
Risks & Warning Signs
Your risk for breast cancer increases as you get older. Other factors can also increase your risk, including family history, genetics, race, weight, diet, pregnancy history and lifestyle choices.
Talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing any of these warning signs:
- Swelling on all or part of the breast
- Skin irritation or dimpling
- Breast pain
- Nipple pain or nipple turning inward
- Redness, scaliness, or thickening of the nipple or breast skin
- Nipple discharge other than breast milk
- A lump in the underarm area
Diagnosis
If you have an abnormal mammogram, you’ll need to have additional testing. This may include another mammogram or ultrasound of your breast, and a biopsy. If your results are benign (non-cancerous), you and your doctor will discuss any additional follow-up plans that may be necessary to monitor your condition. If your results are malignant (cancerous), our cancer care team will provide expert recommendations for cancer treatment, and the support you need to take the next steps.
Treatment
Breast cancer treatment begins with meeting a breast cancer specialist or surgeon. From here, you’ll discuss your treatment options and what will work best for you, and develop your care plan. Treatment could involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation or estrogen blocking therapy, either separately or in combination.
At the beginning of and throughout the treatment process, all the members of your care team will meet to participate in a care conference. Your team will discuss your progress and recommend changes to your treatment, if necessary. You will always be informed of any changes to your care plan, and will have the final say in the treatment you receive.
ThedaCare Cancer Care specialists treat patients throughout northeast Wisconsin.
