What are the stages of breast cancer? When should mammography be performed?
Breast cancer is a complex disease that progresses through different stages. The stages of breast cancer are determined based on the size of the tumor, whether it has spread to nearby lymph nodes, and if it has metastasized to other parts of the body. The stages range from 0 to IV, with stage 0 being the earliest and stage IV being the most advanced. Mammography, a type of breast imaging, is an essential tool for detecting breast cancer at its earliest stages. The American Cancer Society recommends that women undergo regular mammograms starting at the age of 40, although the frequency may vary depending on individual risk factors.
Stage 0: Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS)
DCIS is the earliest stage of breast cancer, where abnormal cells are found in the lining of the milk ducts but have not invaded surrounding tissues. At this stage, the cancer is non-invasive and has not spread to the lymph nodes or other parts of the body. DCIS is usually detected through mammography and is highly treatable with a high survival rate.
Stage I: Early Stage Breast Cancer
Stage I breast cancer is divided into two subcategories: IA and IB. In stage IA, the tumor measures up to 2 centimeters and has not spread to the lymph nodes. In stage IB, there is no tumor in the breast, but small clusters of cancer cells, measuring no larger than 0.2 millimeters, are found in the lymph nodes. Stage I breast cancer is still considered early stage and has a high survival rate.
Stage II: Locally Advanced Breast Cancer
Stage II breast cancer is also divided into two subcategories: IIA and IIB. In stage IIA, the tumor measures up to 2 centimeters and has spread to 1-3 nearby lymph nodes, or the tumor measures between 2-5 centimeters but has not spread to the lymph nodes. In stage IIB, the tumor measures between 2-5 centimeters and has spread to 1-3 nearby lymph nodes, or the tumor is larger than 5 centimeters but has not spread to the lymph nodes. Stage II breast cancer is still considered locally advanced, but the prognosis is generally favorable with appropriate treatment.
Stage III: Advanced Breast Cancer
Stage III breast cancer is divided into three subcategories: IIIA, IIIB, and IIIC. In stage IIIA, the tumor may be any size and has spread to 4-9 nearby lymph nodes, or the tumor is larger than 5 centimeters and has spread to 1-3 nearby lymph nodes. In stage IIIB, the tumor may be any size and has spread to the chest wall or skin, causing ulceration or inflammation. In stage IIIC, the tumor may be any size and has spread to 10 or more nearby lymph nodes, or has spread to the lymph nodes above or below the collarbone. Stage III breast cancer is considered locally advanced and requires aggressive treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy.
Stage IV: Metastatic Breast Cancer
Stage IV breast cancer, also known as metastatic breast cancer, is the most advanced stage of the disease. At this stage, the cancer has spread to distant organs, such as the bones, liver, lungs, or brain. Metastatic breast cancer is considered incurable, but treatment options are available to manage the disease and improve quality of life. Treatment may include chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, radiation therapy, and surgery to remove tumors in specific areas.
Mammography is a crucial tool for detecting breast cancer at its earliest stages. It is recommended that women undergo regular mammograms starting at the age of 40. However, the frequency of mammography may vary depending on individual risk factors, such as family history, genetic mutations, and personal medical history. Women at higher risk may be advised to start mammograms earlier or have them more frequently. Mammography can detect breast cancer before symptoms are present, allowing for early intervention and improved treatment outcomes. It is important for women to discuss their individual risk factors and screening recommendations with their healthcare providers to determine the most appropriate mammography schedule for them.
