Understanding

Breast Cancer

Beyond Awareness: Understanding Breast Cancer

An evidence-based resource helping empower our community with knowledge and confidence to navigate the complexities of this disease.

What’s our hope?

 We hope to encourage patients to take back control of their breast cancer experience. Supporting you with easy-to-understand resources helps put you back in the driver’s seat and leads to more informed decision-making, confident conversations with your healthcare team, and better overall outcomes.

 

Content: What is breast cancer?

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is a type of disease where the cells in your breast begin to grow abnormally and rapidly, resulting in cancerous tumours, known as malignant tumours. Breast cancer can start in the lining of the lobules (milk-producing glands) or breast ducts and may spread into the surrounding tissues or distant organs at the more advanced stages.

Though breast cancer is typically combined under one category, the reality is that the complexities surrounding this disease include different stages, grades, types, tumour biology and subtypes and require a variety of treatment options, patient support, and ongoing care.

Image source: https://www.ohsu.edu/sites/default/files/2018-11/female-breast-anatomy.jpg

Content: Breast cancer stages & grades

Content: Breast cancer types & subtypes

Content: How is breast cancer diagnosed?

Content: What are the risk factors?

Content: Common symptoms of breast cancer

Content: Treatment options

Content: Who will be part of my healthcare team?

Content: A-Z Glossary: Common Terms for Breast Cancer Patients

It is important to note that breast reconstruction is not for everyone, and some patients may choose not to have a reconstruction. The decision to have breast reconstruction is personal and should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional.