Definition of Cancer, breast

Cancer, breast: Cancer of the tissue containing or involving the milk glands (mammary tissue). Breast cancer is diagnosed with self- and physician- examination of the breasts, mammography, ultrasound testing, and biopsy. There are many types of breast cancer that differ in their capability of spreading to other body tissues (metastasis). All women are advised to perform regular self- examinations of their breast tissue to familiarize themselves with the normal lumps and structures. Early detection increases the chance of treatment success. Treatment of breast cancer depends on the type and location of the breast cancer, as well as the age and health of the patient. It may include surgery to remove cancerous tissue only, partial or full mastectomy (removal of the entire breast, and sometimes of surrounding lymph or muscle tissue), or treatment with radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or drugs.

The American Cancer Society recommends that a woman should have a baseline mammogram between the ages of 35 and 40 years. Between 40 and 50 years of age mammograms are recommended every other year. After age 50 years, yearly mammograms are recommended.