Page 5 - Senior Times South Central Michigan October 2023 - 30-10

Senior Times - October 2023 Page 5
BREAST CANCER: SYMPTOMS, SCREENINGS, AND TREATMENT
Provided by Bronson Battle Creek
Did you know that in the United States, one
in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime? According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, “In 2023, an estimated 297,790 women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer.” Odds are that you know someone who currently has or has had breast cancer or has been personally impacted by it.
Knowing the facts about breast cancer, being aware of the symptoms, and understanding the need for screening is key to making informed decisions about your breast health.
While breast cancer almost always occurs in women, men can get breast cancer, too. There are many types of breast cancer, which is determined by the type of cells within the breast that are affected.
materials from the breast or affected areas.
• Radiation Therapy - High energy rays used to
Knowing how your breasts normally feel and look will help you identify any changes or abnor- malities that may occur. The first symptom people typically notice is a lump in the breast or armpit. While each person’s experience is different, com- mon symptoms of breast cancer include:
• Swelling or thickening of the breast
• Pain in the nipple or breast
• Change in the shape, size or appearance of the
to grow.
• Chemotherapy – A form of medicine that travels
breast
• Irritation, redness, or dimpling of breast skin
• A newly inverted nipple
• Discharge from the nipple that is not breast milk • Swollen or painful lymph nodes in the armpit
Bronson’s specialists are leaders in cancer care and Battle Creek and Kalamazoo centers are rated among the best in the nation. To learn more about breast cancer, visit cancer.org or speak with your primary care provider. Go to bronsonhealth.com/ cancer to learn more about the comprehensive approach to care provided at Bronson Cancer Center. In Battle Creek call (269) 245-6350 or Kalamazoo (269) 286-7170.
If you are experiencing any of these
symptoms, contact your primary care provider right away. Early detection plays a large role in the success of treatment.
A breast biopsy is a test that removes tissue and fluid from the breast to determine if the sus- picious area is cancerous. Doctors determine the type of biopsy based on the size of the suspicious area, where it is located in the breast and if there are multiple areas needing to be tested. The tissue and cells pulled from the biopsy are examined under a microscope to detect the presence of cancerous cells.
Mammograms are low-dose x-rays that take photos of the breast and can help detect abnor- malities. Not only do mammograms spot masses, they can also detect abnormal cells in the lining of the breast duct, which can turn into invasive cancer.
Breast cancer is a growth of abnormal cells within the breast tissue that have the capability to invade surrounding tissues or spread to other parts of the body. In general, the more localized the process, the greater chance of cure, which is why early detection is so important.
A 3D mammogram is a type of mammogram that combines multiple breast x-rays to create a 3D image. This type of mammogram is recom- mended for people with dense breast tissue or who may not show signs or symptoms. Yearly mammograms should begin at the age of 40 and even earlier for those with a family history of breast cancer.
If you are diagnosed with breast cancer, your provider will recommend a treatment plan based on the stage of your breast cancer. Some treat- ments may be local (targeting just the area around the tumor) and other treatments may be systemic (targeting the whole body).
A breast ultrasound is a scan that uses sound waves to capture a detailed photo called a sono- gram. The sonogram helps doctors determine what type of mass is detected. Some masses may be fluid-filled like cysts and others may be solid masses that need further testing. Undergoing
Breast cancer can be treated using multiple treatment options, including:
• Surgery - A procedure to remove cancerous
a breast ultrasound is not a typical screening option. However, it is useful for looking at chang- es in the breast, especially for lumps you can feel, but cannot see.
blocks the hormones necessary for cancer cells
Depending on screening results and other risk factors, additional testing may be ordered.
growth of cancerous cells.
• Immunotherapy - The use of a person’s own
During the breast MRI screening, an MRI machine uses strong magnets to take detailed photos of the breast as the person is lying down with their arms above their head. Based on the American Cancer Society guidelines, women who have a high risk for breast cancer should undergo a yearly breast MRI in addition to their yearly mammogram. Many high-risk women choose
to schedule a mammogram and breast MRI six months apart to ensure they are tested twice a year.
immune system to fight cancerous cells or to reduce the side effects from other treatments.
kill cancer cells within the breast.
• Hormone Therapy – A prescription drug that
through the body and kills or slows down the
Exceptional Surgical Care
Bronson Battle Creek Hospital has more surgeons and specialists and more advanced technology than ever before. In fact, we’re the preferred destination for surgery in Calhoun County. Ourhighly skilled teams perform a wide range of procedures with the support of anesthesiologists who are inhouse 24/7 to ensure patient comfort during surgery and the days of recovery that follow. When you choose Bronson for surgery, you get quality care and a team that knows how to make your healthcare experience an exceptional one!
Learn more at bronsonhealth.com/surgery.