Comprehensive Guide to Advanced Breast Cancer and Its Stages
This guide provides essential information on advanced breast cancer, including its stages, symptoms, survival rates, and top treatment centers. Early detection and specialized care are crucial for improving outcomes for patients facing this serious illness.
The American Cancer Society explains that breast cancer develops when benign breast tumors enlarge. These tumors may be visible on X-rays, and as they grow, they can be identified as malignant, affecting nearby tissues. Stage 4 breast cancer signifies the most advanced and dangerous phase, with a notably lower survival rate.
Is breast cancer common among women?
Aside from skin cancer, breast cancer ranks as one of the most prevalent cancers affecting women, with a 12% chance of development. Below are key facts about late-stage breast cancer.
Approximately 40,920 women succumb annually to advanced breast cancer
In 2018, over 266,120 new breast cancer cases were identified among women
The mortality rate for advanced cases declined by 39% from 1989 to 2015
More than 3.1 million survivors are living with advanced breast cancer in the country
The incidence in the African-American community rises by about 0.3% each year
Breast Cancer Stages
According to the National Cancer Institute, breast cancer progresses through four primary stages:
Stage 1: The tumor is up to 2 cm, confined within the breast, with cancer cells limited to nearby lymph nodes.
Stage 2: The cancer spreads locally, affecting additional lymph nodes; the tumor may grow larger than 2 cm.
Stage 3: Tumor growth worsens, possibly causing skin ulcers or inflammation.
Stage 4: The cancer metastasizes throughout the body, representing the most severe stage.
Signs of Advanced Breast Cancer
In late stages, women may experience skin changes, lumps, swelling, fatigue, nipple discharge, and insomnia. Symptoms typically include:
Inflammatory breast cancer may cause skin redness, swelling, and lymphatic blockage
Initially, breasts can appear normal, but swelling and lumps develop as the disease progresses
A prominent breast lump and swelling extending to the arms are common indicators of metastatic breast cancer
Leading Treatment Centers for Advanced Breast Cancer
Survival rates decrease if diagnosis occurs late: five-year survival is about 22% for stage 4 and 72% for stage 3. Early detection improves prognosis. Notable cancer treatment centers include:
Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute
UCLA Medical Center
University of Michigan Hospitals and Health Centers
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Cleveland Clinic
MD Anderson Cancer Center, University of Texas
