Cancers We Treat
Breast Cancer
Learn about what Baptist Cancer Center offers you in terms of leading-edge breast cancer treatments.
Cancers We Treat
Learn about what Baptist Cancer Center offers you in terms of leading-edge breast cancer treatments.
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women in the United States. Any type of tumor that forms in the breast is considered breast cancer. Although tumors may begin to form in the breast, they also have the potential to grow into surrounding tissue or metastasize to other areas of the body.
At Baptist Cancer Center, patients receive advanced, leading-edge care. Breast cancer treatment teams may include, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists and other medical professionals such as nurse practitioners, nurses, psychologists and rehab specialists. We take into consideration your goals and will work closely with you and your family to help ensure you receive the information, support and care that you need close to home.
There are many types of breast cancer, which are determined by specific affected cells in the breast. The most common types of breast cancer are:
Approximately 20 percent of breast cancer cases are ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). DCIS is considered non-invasive. It occurs when cancer cells are only found in the lining of the milk ducts. This means that the cancer has not spread to other areas of the breast.
Recognizing the signs of breast cancer allows for timely intervention, potentially increasing the chances of successful treatment and improving your quality of life.
Breast cancer is caused by a gene mutation which may be inherited or acquired. The cause of the mutation is unknown. The risk of developing breast cancer may be affected by some genetic and environmental factors, including:
Breast cancer stages help patients and doctors determine prognosis, breast cancer treatment options and clinical trial participation. Breast cancer is classified by the stage, or progression, that it's in when discovered. The stages range from stage 0, meaning the cancer is non-invasive, to stage IV, which means the cancer has metastasized, or moved to different parts of the body.
Symptoms of breast cancer can vary depending on the type of breast cancer and the patient. Some cases of breast cancer show no signs or symptoms.
If symptoms indicate breast cancer as a possible diagnosis, a doctor will perform a series of diagnostic tests, which may include a physical exam, imaging tests and/or biopsies.
Related Information
As a patient at Baptist Cancer Center, you will have access to a dedicated patient navigator who will act as your advocate and liaison between you and your health care teams. Our patient navigators are available at every step to schedule appointments, answer questions, explain the treatment process, and provide resources, education and support when you and your family need it.