Understanding the stages of breast cancer

             Written by: Deepa Sarkar

Breast cancer is a disease that can affect anyone, and understanding its stages is vital for early detection and better treatment outcomes. 

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Knowing the signs and stages can empower you to take control of your health and make informed decisions. Let's break down the stages to help you stay informed and aware.

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At this stage, abnormal cells are found in the breast but haven’t spread beyond the duct. It’s often called "ductal carcinoma in situ" (DCIS), and it’s highly treatable.

Stage 0 (Non-Invasive)

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The cancer has started to spread beyond the duct into the breast tissue, but it's still small (2 cm or less) and hasn’t reached the lymph nodes. Treatment is very effective at this stage.

Stage 1 (Early Stage)

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The tumor is larger (2-5 cm) and may have spread to nearby lymph nodes. Though the cancer has begun to spread, it’s still confined to the area around the breast.

Stage 2 (Localized Spread)

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At this stage, the cancer has spread to multiple lymph nodes and may involve the skin or chest wall, but it hasn’t reached distant organs yet.

Stage 3 (Advanced Local Spread)

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This is the most advanced stage. Cancer has spread to other parts of the body such as the lungs, liver, or bones. Treatment options focus on managing the disease.

Stage 4 (Metastatic)

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Getting regular mammograms and performing self-examinations can help detect breast cancer early, when it’s most treatable.

Importance of Early Detection

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Keep an eye out for changes such as lumps, skin dimpling, nipple discharge, or any sudden changes in the shape or size of your breasts.

Symptoms to Watch Out For

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– Early stages: Surgery, radiation, and hormone therapy. – Advanced stages: Chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.

Treatment Options by Stage

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Breast cancer is treatable when caught early. Regular screenings and check-ups are key, so talk to your healthcare provider about when you should start your routine screenings.

Please Note

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