Breast Cancer

What is breast cancer?

Cancer occurs when cells in the body grow uncontrollably. The cells form a tumor. They may invade nearby tissues or break away and create new tumors in other parts of the body.

Most breast cancers develop in the breasts’ milk ducts. However, cancer may also start in the breasts’ milk glands, or lobules, or in other areas. Although breast cancer is far more common in women, it can also appear in men. The Lynn Cancer Institute treats all types of breast cancer in both men and women.

About 90% of those with breast cancer survive the disease. When cancer cells haven’t spread from their original tumor site, the breast cancer survival rate approaches 99%. Thanks to increased screening and improved mammography and other detection methods, many patients find breast cancer early, when it tends to be easiest to treat. Today’s patients also benefit from advances in treatments and newer surgical techniques that are less invasive than in the past.

Medical illustration of anatomy of the female breast.

Rely on our expertise, compassion and experience

At the Lynn Cancer Institute, we’re committed to fighting breast cancer with every tool available. Before your diagnosis, during treatment and beyond, we focus on your wellness and good health.

Before your diagnosis

Advanced imaging. We provide comprehensive breast imaging services including low dose 3D mammography, breast ultrasound, contrast enhanced mammography, 3T breast MRI, molecular breast imaging, and minimally invasive breast biopsies. We are recognized as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology.
Risk assessment. Our breast cancer experts help determine your personal risk for breast cancer. Then based on your risks, we tailor a screening program to match your needs and offer advice on breast cancer prevention.

During treatment

Team-based care. Experts in breast imaging, surgery, medical and radiation oncology and breast reconstruction work together to help you get the right care at the right time. Our experts are joined by patient navigators, genetic counselors, social workers and other breast cancer specialists, all of whom focus on meeting your specific needs.
Patient navigation services. Dedicated patient navigators support and guide you through each step of your cancer journey. They help streamline your care so you can focus on what’s most important — recovering.
Personalized treatment and follow-up plans. Every patient’s situation is unique. So we believe every patient’s care should be, too. We tailor your treatment and follow-up care to the type and stage of your cancer, age and overall health. Your personal preferences are also an essential part of treatment decisions.

Beyond treatment

Patient-centered survivorship services. Our care doesn’t end when your treatment does. We designed our survivorship services to help you address any physical and psychological challenges after treatment. We also monitor you for any potential return of cancer so you can make treatment decisions right away.

Schedule your mammogram

Mammograms are an important tool for finding breast cancer early. These screening X-rays may identify the disease up to two years before you or your physician could feel a lump. Talking with your physician is the best way to learn which screening tests are best for you and when.

Learn more about breast cancer screening and what sets us apart at the Schmidt Family Center for Breast Care.

Questions?

If you have questions about your risks or options for breast cancer care, we’re here to help.

What is breast cancer?

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