The Stages of Breast Cancer Explained

doctor working in office analyzing x-ray medical picture

Breast cancer affects one in four women, and it can be daunting to understand all the different stages and treatment options that are available; especially if you have been recently diagnosed. To help you through the specifics of all the different breast cancer stages and what they mean for your personal treatment plan, the Breast Institute Austin has put together an informative piece to walk you through every stage of breast cancer. Find an attentive and highly recommended breast cancer specialist in Austin when you contact the Breast Institute Austin to schedule your first appointment today.

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The Relationship Between Lymph Nodes and Cancer

Many of us have heard the term “lymph node”, but not many of us understand specifically what their purpose is. These nodes are integral to the function of our body and it’s good to know specifically why they are so important. For any questions regarding this issue, or for a lymph node biopsy in Austin, contact Breast Institute Austin to find out more. What Are Lymph Nodes? Despite often being tied to cancer, it is important to know that lymph nodes are separate and are crucial to the health of our bodies. A part of the lymphatic system, lymph nodes act like filters and trap bacteria, viruses, and other waste that can cause infection. These lymph nodes are scattered throughout the body and fight infection to maintain our body’s health. It is like having an army to fight bacteria in your body because the nodes are all connected via …

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What are the Different Types of Breast Cancer?

As technology advances, breast cancer screenings are catching breast cancer earlier and earlier. We are more vigilant about our health, and have access to technology that allows us to live much longer lives. With that, however, comes the fact that with longer lives comes a longer window within which to develop a disease like breast cancer. Despite our increased access to information and knowledge about our own health, not everyone understands the different types of breast cancer. With the help of the best breast cancer doctor in Austin, Dr. Miltenburg, we can begin to explore the ways in which breast cancer spread. Breast cancer can begin in many different areas of the breast: the ducts, the lobules, and in some cases the tissues in-between. Just as there are many different areas where the cancer can begin, there are many different types of breast cancer, too. Understanding the differences between …

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What You Need to Know About Breast Cancer Symptoms

A woman’s breast health can change throughout her life and is the result of age, environment and genetics. According to BreastCancer.org, an estimated 252,710 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in U.S. women in 2017, along with 63,410 new cases of non-invasive breast cancer. This is why it is important to know the breast cancer symptoms and signs so you can make informed decisions about your own health. Read on to know what to look for and what actions you should be taking with your breast cancer doctor in Austin. Benign Breast Changes There are some very common, benign or noncancerous changes in breast health that you should be aware of. These changes can include generalized breast lumpiness, enlargement of the lymph nodes, breast pain, and nipple discharge. Some women also suffer from fibroadenomas or painless, moveable and firm round lumps in the breast. …

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Top Disproved Risks of Breast Cancer

  There are many factors that research has shown are not linked to and breast cancer symptoms. You may see information online or hear about these disproved or controversial risk factors, but it is important to learn the facts before digesting false information. Here are the top disproved risks of breast cancer. Antiperspirants Research on deodorant and antiperspirant use and breast cancer risk was driven by concerns that chemicals found in these products might enter the skin in the underarm and cause changes in breast cells that could lead to cancer. However, studies have found no link between deodorant and antiperspirant use and breast cancer risk. Based on the available evidence (including what we know about how the body works), there is little if any reason to believe that antiperspirants increase the risk of breast cancer. Bras and Underwire Bras Scientific evidence does not support a link between wearing …

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The Different Techniques for a Breast Biopsy

In a breast biopsy or mammogram, tissue is taken from the breast and examined under the microscope in order to determine whether or not cancer is present. There are different breast biopsy techniques. These include: Fine needle aspiration, also known as FNA, image-guided core needle biopsy, and excisional biopsy. FNA Fine needle aspiration, which is also known as FNA, is among the least invasive breast biopsy techniques. It is often used when the doctor suspects a cyst or to biopsy a lymph node. A problem with FNA is if malignant cells are seen, the pathologist may not be ale to tell if the cancer is invasive or non invasive. This distinction is very important because it guides treatment decisions. If cancer is diagnosed on FNA, additional biopsies may be essential. Core Needle Biopsy This technique is used when an abnormality is seen on breast imaging such as mammogram, ultrasound …

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Can Breast Cancer Be Prevented?

Breast cancer is a deadly disease that haunts far too many people; today 3 million women are living with breast cancer in the United States alone. Can breast cancer be prevented? There is no definite way of preventing breast cancer, but the American Cancer Association recommends being aware of potential risks that increase your chances of being diagnosed. Lowering your risk can be especially helpful for women who have a family history of breast cancer. Preventable Risk Factors Many factors that may make you more susceptible to breast cancer are related to parts of your daily life. By being aware of the potential risk, you can be proactive and monitor your intake on the following activities. Being Overweight Obesity increases your risk for a myriad of health problems, including breast cancer. This most notably increases the risk for women who become obese later in life and especially after menopause. …

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