Definition of Cancer, breast
Cancer, breast: Cancer of the tissue containing or
involving the milk glands (mammary tissue). Breast cancer is
diagnosed with self- and
physician- examination of the breasts, mammography, ultrasound
testing, and biopsy. There
are many types of breast cancer that differ in their capability of
spreading to other body
tissues (metastasis). All women are advised to perform regular self-
examinations of their breast tissue to familiarize themselves with
the normal lumps and structures. Early detection increases the chance
of treatment success. Treatment of breast cancer depends on the type
and location of the breast cancer, as well as the age and health of
the patient. It may include surgery to remove cancerous tissue only,
partial or full mastectomy (removal of the entire breast, and
sometimes of surrounding lymph or muscle tissue), or treatment with
radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or drugs.
The American Cancer
Society
recommends that a woman should have a baseline mammogram between the
ages of 35 and 40
years. Between 40 and 50 years of age mammograms are recommended
every other year. After
age 50 years, yearly mammograms are recommended.
Last Editorial Review: 3/26/1998 2:24:00 PM
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