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Breast Cancer: Understanding the Basics

Because not all treatment is created equal

ABOUT BREAST CANCER TREATMENT

Breast cancer is a significant health concern that affects millions of people worldwide. In the United States, it is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among women. This page provides essential information about breast cancer, including statistics, signs and symptoms, screening and diagnosis, types of breast cancer, and treatment options.

Breast Cancer Statistics in the U.S.

prevalence

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in American women, except for skin cancers. It is estimated that about 1 in 8 women (about 13%) will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of their lifetime.

Mortality

Approximately 43,700 women in the U.S. are expected to die in 2024 from breast cancer.

New Cases

In 2024, an estimated 297,790 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women in the U.S., along with 55,720 new cases of non-invasive (in situ) breast cancer.

survival rate

The overall 5-year relative survival rate for breast cancer is 90%. However, the survival rate significantly depends on the stage at diagnosis.

Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Early detection of breast cancer increases the chance of successful treatment. Common signs and symptoms include:

  • A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm.
  • Change in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast.
  • Dimpling or puckering of the skin on the breast.
  • Nipple discharge that is not breast milk, particularly if it’s bloody.
  • Pain in any area of the breast.
  • Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast.
  • A nipple that is pulling inward or change in the position of the nipple.

Screening and Diagnosis

Regular screening can help detect breast cancer early. The most common screening methods include:
  • Mammogram: An X-ray of the breast, which can detect tumors that are too small to be felt.
  • Breast Ultrasound: Used to determine whether a breast lump is a solid mass or a fluid-filled cyst.
  • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Used in women with a high risk of breast cancer, it provides detailed images of the breast.
  • Clinical Breast Exam: Performed by a healthcare professional to feel for lumps or other changes.
  • Self-Exams: Women are encouraged to become familiar with their breasts so they can notice changes more easily.

Types of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer can be classified into several types based on where it begins and how it grows:
  • Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): A non-invasive cancer where abnormal cells are found in the lining of a breast duct.
  • Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): The most common type of breast cancer, starting in the breast ducts and invading surrounding tissue.
  • Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): Begins in the milk-producing glands (lobules) and can spread to other parts of the body.
  • Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Lacks estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors, and is more challenging to treat.
  • HER2-Positive Breast Cancer: Has high levels of a protein called HER2, which promotes cancer cell growth.
  • Inflammatory Breast Cancer: A rare and aggressive form where cancer cells block lymph vessels in the skin of the breast.
  • Paget’s Disease of the Nipple: A rare form that starts in the ducts of the nipple but extends to the nipple surface and areola.

Types of Breast Cancer Treatment

Treatment for breast cancer varies depending on the type and stage of the cancer. Common treatments include:

  • Surgery:
    • Lumpectomy: Removal of the tumor and a small margin of surrounding tissue.
    • Mastectomy: Removal of one or both breasts, partially or completely.
  • Radiation Therapy: High-energy waves are used to target and destroy cancer cells.
  • Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing.
  • Hormone Therapy: Blocks or removes hormones that fuel certain cancers (e.g., estrogen or progesterone receptor-positive cancers).
  • Targeted Therapy: Drugs or other substances that target specific molecules involved in cancer growth and spread, such as HER2-positive cancers.
  • Immunotherapy: Uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer.
  • Clinical Trials: Participation in research studies testing new treatments or drugs.
Breast cancer awareness, early detection, and advances in treatment are crucial in the fight against this disease. Regular screening and being mindful of changes in your body can lead to early diagnosis and better outcomes. If you have any concerns or symptoms, consult with a healthcare provider promptly. Together, we can continue to make strides towards a future where breast cancer is no longer a threat.

Breast Cancer

One of the most common cancers for women, breast cancer’s symptoms include a lump in the breast and a change in size or shape of the breast. Have questions?
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WHy We're Different

With a state-of-the-art facility and an expert team of oncologists and therapists, we build personalized proton therapy treatment plans that best fit each cancer diagnosis. Get all of the information on symptoms, diagnosis and treatment by contacting the Oklahoma Proton Center team below.
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Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve put together commonly asked questions about proton therapy for breast cancer, patient care and insurance options to ensure you have the answers you need.
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FIND OUT IF PROTON THERAPY IS RIGHT FOR YOU

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Radiation therapy is commonly recommended after breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) to destroy any microscopic cancer cells that might remain in the breast or surrounding tissues. It may also be used after a mastectomy if the cancer was large or involved the lymph nodes.

The main types of radiation therapy for breast cancer include:

  • External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): The most common type, where a machine directs radiation beams at the breast from outside the body. Proton Therapy is a type of EBRT.
  • Internal Radiation (Brachytherapy): A less common type, where radioactive seeds or pellets are placed inside the breast tissue near the tumor site.
  • Intraoperative Radiation Therapy (IORT): Radiation is delivered directly to the tumor bed during surgery.

Proton therapy is a type of radiation treatment that uses protons instead of traditional X-rays to treat cancer. Protons are positively charged particles that can be precisely controlled to release their energy directly at the tumor site, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

The key difference between proton therapy and traditional radiation therapy (using X-rays) is the precision of proton therapy. Protons can be targeted more accurately, delivering maximum radiation to the tumor while sparing surrounding healthy tissues and vital organs such as the heart and lungs.

The benefits of proton therapy for breast cancer include:

  • Reduced Radiation Exposure: Less radiation to healthy tissues and critical organs.
  • Fewer Side Effects: Lower risk of side effects such as skin irritation, fatigue, and damage to the heart and lungs.
  • Improved Quality of Life: Better overall quality of life during and after treatment due to fewer side effects.
  • Lower Risk of Secondary Cancers: Reduced risk of developing secondary cancers due to less radiation exposure to healthy tissues.

Proton therapy is suitable for many breast cancer patients, especially those with:

  • Tumors located near critical structures like the heart or lungs.
  • Left-sided breast cancer, where the heart is at greater risk.
  • Previous radiation therapy patients.
  • Younger patients concerned about long-term side effects.
  • Patients with genetic predispositions increasing sensitivity to radiation.

The treatment process includes:

  • Consultation: Initial visit with a radiation oncologist specializing in proton therapy.
  • Planning: Advanced imaging techniques (CT, MRI) are used to create a 3D model of the tumor and surrounding tissues.
  • Simulation: A session to map the treatment area and ensure accurate targeting.
  • Treatment Sessions: Typically conducted 5 days a week for several weeks. Each session lasts about 15-30 minutes, during which patients lie on a treatment table while protons are delivered to the tumor.

Yes, proton therapy can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes surgery, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapy. Your oncologist will determine the best combination based on your specific case.

The duration of proton therapy for breast cancer varies, but a typical course lasts about 3 to 6 weeks, with treatments given once a day, 5 days a week. Some patients may be candidates for shorter courses or hypofractionated radiation, which delivers higher doses over a shorter period.

Proton therapy is usually well-tolerated, allowing many patients to continue their normal activities. However, some adjustments may be needed to manage side effects such as fatigue. It's important to listen to your body and rest as needed.

Managing side effects involves:

  • Skin Care: Use gentle skincare products and avoid sun exposure to the treated area.
  • Rest: Prioritize rest to combat fatigue.
  • Hydration and Nutrition: Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated.
  • Exercise: Engage in light physical activity to help reduce fatigue.

Coverage for proton therapy varies by insurance provider and plan. It's important to check with your insurance company to understand your coverage and any out-of-pocket costs. Your healthcare team can assist with insurance approval and financial counseling.

Regular follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor your progress, manage any side effects, and ensure the effectiveness of the treatment. These visits are crucial for long-term health and detecting any recurrence early.