Breast cancer

Breast cancer is cancer that starts in the breast tissue. It’s the most common cancer in the UK. It mainly affects women, but men can get it too.

Symptoms of breast cancer include a lump in the breast or changes in the size, shape or feel of your breast. See your GP if you have any of these symptoms or any other symptoms of breast cancer.

You usually start by seeing your GP. Your GP will examine you and may refer you to a specialist breast clinic. Or you may have had breast changes picked up through breast screening.

Survival is generally very good for breast cancer, particularly if you are diagnosed early. This is probably because of screening, early diagnosis and improved treatment.

Treatment for breast cancer depends on a number of factors. The main treatments are surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted and immunotherapy drugs.

Your stage means how big the cancer is and whether it has spread. Your grade means how abnormal the cancer cells look under a microscope. This information helps your doctor decide which treatment you need.

There are different types of breast cancer and breast conditions, including breast cancer in men, and conditions related to breast cancer.

Secondary breast cancer means that a cancer that began in the breast has spread to another part of the body such as the bones or lungs.

Research is looking into breast cancer causes, prevention, diagnosis, screening, treatment and side effects.

Getting practical, physical and emotional support can help you to cope with a diagnosis of breast cancer. It can also help you with life during and after treatment.

Breast cancer is now the most common cancer in the UK. Your risk of developing breast cancer depends on many factors including age, genetics and other factors such as obesity and alcohol.

There are many organisations, support groups, videos and other resources to help you cope with breast cancer and its treatment. There is also information about mastectomy wear and prosthesis suppliers.