Understanding the Stages of Breast Cancer

Published on: August 8, 2017

Every year, over 200,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in the U.S., with an estimated 40,000 deaths per year from the disease. This is a frightening disease that is the 2nd highest cause of cancer deaths in women. Any diagnosis of breast cancer is serious, but there are different stages of this deadly disease. Catching the disease in the early stages is vital for treatment, which is why detection through home exams, mammograms, elastography and clinical exams is so important. Here is a simple breakdown of the different stages and what each means in relation to a diagnosis of breast cancer.

Stage 0

The lowest and best breast cancer diagnosis is Stage 0. This means the cancer cells have not spread from their original location and the cancer is non-invasive.

Stage 1

The first stage of invasive breast cancer is Stage 1, where the cancer cells have begun invading the surrounding tissue. However, the spread is still very limited, which is easier to treat.

Stage 2

In Stage 2, the cancer is invasive and has spread a little further than Stage 1, but it is still contained in the breast area and responds very well to treatment.

Stage 3

At Stage 3, the breast cancer is considered more advanced and has begun to spread outside of the breast area.

Stage 4

Once the cancer has spread beyond the breast area and nearby lymph nodes to other organs and areas in the body, this is Stage 4, the most dangerous form of breast cancer.

Catching breast cancer in the early stages is the best option besides preventing the disease altogether. Make sure to keep up with regular exams and mammograms for early detection of this deadly disease.

Posted on behalf of:
Diagnostic Radiology Ultrasound & Breast Center, P.C.
Mount Vernon Medical Center
755 Mount Vernon Highway Northeast #310
Atlanta, GA 30328
(404) 252-3430

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