Breast Health

In women’s health breast cancer is one of the leading topics. Worldwide breast cancer is the #1 leading cause of new cancer cases as well as the #1 cause of cancer deaths. This fact holds true for both developed as well as developing countries. The map below shows the number of new breast cancers per 100,000 people per year.

 

Most women would fall into an average risk category for the development of breast cancer within their lifetime. In the United States that means approximately 1 out of every 8 women will develop breast cancer by the age of 70. Between the 1980s and the 1990s there was an approximately 30% increase in the incidence of breast cancer. This increase has been attributed to a change in reproductive patterns as well as an increase in breast cancer screening. In the United States the incidence of breast cancer began decreasing around the year 2000 mostly due to the lower use of combined hormonal therapy in postmenopausal women. Although the incidence increased over time, the mortality rate has decreased mostly due to increased screening and improved treatment modalities.

In the United States a standard screening protocol for an average risk individual includes clinical breast exams every 3 years beginning between ages of 20 and 39. Beginning at the age of 40 a woman should have an annual mammogram as well as a clinical breast exam. Screening should continue until a patient’s health would prevent them from surviving treatment. Although breast self-exam used to be part of the guidelines, it is no longer considered standard. However it is important for a woman to recognize changes within her breasts to then be able to alert her healthcare providers.

For women who have significant risk factors for the development of breast cancer, of which include a personal history of atypical breast disease/breast cancer, first degree relative a younger age with breast cancer, a first degree relative with a history of ovarian cancer, a family history suggestive of an inherited predisposition to breast cancer or a known inherited genetic mutation, should discuss the best screening options with their healthcare providers.

Our surgeons, at Mid-Florida Surgical Associates, have over 60 years of experience helping guide women through screening as well as treatment of many breast diseases including breast cancer. In addition, all of our surgeons are members of The American Society of Breast Surgeons.

Because of our interest and dedication to patient care, we have within our office the ability to perform ultrasounds of the breast, minimally invasive biopsies and genetic testing. We have also partnered with other cancer specialists to create Orlando Physician Specialists. This partnership allows our surgeons to work with the other cancer specialists in order to tailor a treatment protocol for each patient.

Please feel free to contact our office to schedule a screening, or help guide you through diagnosis and treatment of any abnormality previously found.