What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer occurs when there are abnormal changes in the genes that regulate cell growth and cell health.

Cells replace themselves through a process of cell growth where new, healthy cells replace old, dying cells. But, sometimes, there are mutations that affect the genes in the cells. The mutated cell will divide without control and will produce more cells until a tumor forms. If the cells of the tumor are close to normal cells in appearance, do not invade nearby tissue and grows slowly, the tumor is benign (not cancerous).

If the cells of the tumor do not resemble normal cells, grows more rapidly and invades nearby tissue, the tumor is malignant (cancerous).

Most Common Breast Cancers

Did you know that there is more than one "kind" of breast cancer? Not all breast cancers are the same, here a few of the most commonly diagnosed cancers of the breast.

DUCTAL CARCINOMA IN SITU (DCIS):

This is the earliest stage of breast cancer. It occurs in the milk producing glands and has not spread beyond that point. If it is ignored it may spread to the surrounding tissue. DCIS is nearly 100% curable if found and treated quickly.

LOBULAR CARCINOMA IN SITU (LCIS):

This is not actually cancer, but an abnormal cell growth in the lining of the lobule. LCIS means an increased risk of developing invasive breast cancer in either breast.

INVASIVE DUCTAL CARCINOMA (IDC):

This is the most commonly diagnosed breast cancer. It occurs when cancer has infiltrated the duct wall and has spread to the surrounding tissue. At this point, the cancer can spread to the blood vessels or lymph channels and spread to other parts of the body.

HER2 - POSITIVE BREAST CANCER:

A breast cancer that tests positive for the Protein Human Epidermal growth factor Receptor 2. It is more aggressive than other types of breast cancer. It is also less responsive to hormone treatments.