Breast Oncology

Breast oncology is a specialized field of medicine focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of breast cancer—the most common cancer among women worldwide. With advancements in early detection, personalized medicine, and minimally invasive treatments, survival rates continue to improve.

Types of Breast Cancer

1. Non-Invasive (In Situ)
   • Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) – Early-stage, confined to milk ducts
   • Lobular Carcinoma In Situ (LCIS) – Higher risk indicator, not true cancer
2. Invasive Breast Cancer
   • Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC) – Most common (80% of cases)
   • Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC) – Spreads differently, harder to detect
   • Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) – Aggressive, lacks hormone receptors
   • HER2-Positive Breast Cancer – Fast-growing but treatable with targeted therapy

Risk Factors & Prevention

Modifiable Risks:

• Obesity, alcohol use, hormone therapy, lack of exercise
  Non-Modifiable Risks:
• Age, family history (BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations), early menstruation

🔹 Prevention Tips:

• Regular mammograms after 40
• Healthy diet & exercise
• Genetic testing for high-risk individuals

Diagnosis & Staging

• Imaging: Mammogram, Ultrasound, MRI
• Biopsy: Core needle or surgical biopsy
• Staging (TNM System): Tumor size, lymph node involvement, metastasis

Treatment Options

1. Surgery

• Lumpectomy (Breast-conserving)
• Mastectomy (Full/partial removal)
• Reconstruction (Implants/flap surgery)

2. Radiation Therapy

• Targets residual cancer cells post-surgery

3. Systemic Therapies

• Chemotherapy (For aggressive cancers)
• Hormone Therapy (For ER/PR+ cancers)
• Targeted Therapy (e.g., Trastuzumab for HER2+)
• Immunotherapy (For advanced/metastatic cases)

Advances in Breast Oncology

• Liquid Biopsies – Early detection via blood tests
• Precision Medicine – Tailored treatments based on genetics
• Oncoplastic Surgery – Combines cancer removal with cosmetic results

Life After Breast Cancer

• Follow-up care to monitor recurrence
• Physical therapy for lymphedema management
• Emotional & psychological support

Conclusion

Early detection through regular screenings and access to advanced treatments significantly improves outcomes. If you or a loved one is facing breast cancer, consult a multidisciplinary oncology team for the best care plan.