Breast Cancer Information
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What Is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is cancer that forms in cells of the breast. The breast consists of lobules (glands that make breast milk), ducts (small tubes that carry milk from the lobules to the nipple), fatty and connective tissue, blood vessels and lymph vessels.
The milk-producing ducts and glands are the two most likely areas to develop cancerous cells. In rarer cases, breast cancer begins in fatty tissues, also known as stromal tissues. Breast cancer may also occur in surrounding lymph nodes, especially those of the underarm.
Breast Cancer Incidence Information
According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), one in eight women who live to be age 80 will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. This makes the disease the second most commonly diagnosed cancer among American women, after skin cancer. NCI estimates that 192,370 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in the United States in 2009.
One in four cancers diagnosed in the United States is breast cancer, yet women are not the only ones receiving the diagnosis. Although the incidence of breast cancer is much less common among men, approximately 1,700 American men learn they have breast cancer each year.
Breast cancer is one of the most highly publicized cancers in the media today. Local and national breast cancer awareness events are reminders of its prevalence. Many of us know someone who previously had or is currently battling breast cancer. Fortunately, advancements in breast cancer research provide new treatment options and technologies for those battling the disease.
Treating Breast Cancer at CTCA
At Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA), you will find expert doctors skilled in treating breast cancer with innovative treatments and technology. As a breast cancer patient at CTCA, you will experience individualized, comprehensive care to fight the disease on all fronts.
Additional Breast Cancer Information
Breast Cancer Risk Factors: Read about a variety of factors that may increase your risk of developing breast cancer.
Breast Cancer Symptoms: Recognize symptoms, like skin changes or lumps, that can help with earlier detection of breast cancer.
Breast Cancer Diagnosis: Discover how breast cancer is diagnosed and the tools used during the diagnosis process.
Breast Cancer Staging: Understand the different breast cancer stages and how these stages may impact your treatment options.
Breast Cancer Treatments: Find additional breast cancer information and learn about the treatment options available at CTCA hospitals.
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