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Understanding the Five Critical Stages of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer affects millions of women each year and is one of the most common forms of cancer. The condition comprises five main stages that are categorized based on tumor size and activity. Breast cancer treatments vary at each stage, depending on the progression of the disease.

Here’s what you need to know about the five critical stages of breast cancer:

Stage 0

Stage 0 is the noninvasive stage. At this point, cancer hasn’t spread to the blood vessels or healthy cells and tissues nearby. However, this also makes it rather difficult to detect the presence of cancer because of the lack of visible symptoms. There’s no evidence of the cancer cells metastasizing and spreading to other areas.

Stage I

At stage I, the cancer cells start spreading around the breast tissues. While this is still an early stage of the disease, it’s an invasive one. The cancer cells move to areas beyond the origin site and affect healthy tissues nearby.

Diagnosing breast cancer at this stage is possible through frequent screenings and breast examinations. While the individual doesn’t usually exhibit any vital symptoms, the tumor size is up to 20mm and there is limited nodal involvement. This allows for easy detection.

Stage II

At stage II, the tumor size is between 2cm and 5cm, and there’s usually nodal involvement. The cancer cells begin spreading to the lymph nodes in the armpit, affecting up to three nodes.

Stage III

Stage III is considered the locally advanced disease stage because the tumor grows larger than 5cm and typically affects up to four lymph nodes. It usually spreads to the chest skin or wall. However, the cancer is still within the chest area at this stage and hasn’t started spreading to distant tissues and organs.

Stage IV

This is the most severe stage of breast cancer. At stage 4, cancer spreads to one or more body parts. It may reach the liver, bones, lungs, or brain. The tumor also becomes larger and more difficult to treat. Most patients are advised to have surgery and/or radiation therapy to increase their long-term survival.

Breast Screening and Diagnostic Services

The Comprehensive Breast Center at TOPS Surgical Specialty Hospital provides breast screenings and breast cancer treatments. Visit our website today to learn more about our surgical specialty hospital in Houston and find a doctor who’s right for you.