Breast cancer is typically detected at advanced stages, but the earlier it is diagnosed, the higher the chance of success in treatment. Early diagnosis of breast cancer can save lives. Staging of the cancer is the most crucial factor in determining treatment. Women at risk of breast cancer or with a family history of breast cancer should undergo regular breast examinations.
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When examining the stages of breast cancer diagnosis, it is most commonly diagnosed at Stage 2, followed by Stage 1 and Stage 3. In our country, breast cancer is often diagnosed very late, which underlines the importance of early detection.
What Are the Stages of Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer stages are determined by the size of the cancer and whether it has spread to lymph nodes or other parts of the body. In Stage 0 breast cancer, the malignant mass is confined to the breast without spreading anywhere else. As time progresses, the condition worsens, advancing to other stages. In the final Stage 4, the cancer has spread beyond the breast to other organs.
Staging of breast cancer becomes critical during diagnosis for proper treatment planning. While breast cancer in its early stages can be treated with surgery, advanced stages may require additional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the higher the chances of successful treatment. Furthermore, staging helps predict the prognosis for advanced conditions, including the likelihood of recurrence or metastasis.
How Many Stages Does Breast Cancer Have?
Breast cancer consists of 5 stages, ranging from minimal to extensive spread. These stages are classified as Stage 0, Stage 1, Stage 2, Stage 3, and Stage 4. While the staging system includes 5 stages, each stage also has subcategories.
Stage 0: The tumor is in its initial development. It has not spread to fatty tissue, lymph nodes, or other organs. It can be diagnosed through imaging methods.
Stage 1: At this stage, the tumor is confined to the breast and has not spread elsewhere. It is smaller than 2 centimeters. Tumors in this stage typically do not involve axillary lymph nodes, or if they do, the involvement is minimal.
Stage 2A: The tumor size ranges from 2 to 5 centimeters. It may have spread to lymph nodes if it is 2 centimeters, or it may be larger than 2 centimeters without spreading to lymph nodes.
Stage 2B: The tumor is between 2-5 centimeters and may have spread to lymph nodes. It has not spread to other organs. Tumor size may increase; it can be less than 5 centimeters with lymph node involvement or larger than 5 centimeters without lymph node involvement.
Stage 3A: The tumor is larger than 5 centimeters. Lymph node involvement is significant.
Stage 3B: The cancer has spread extensively, including areas like the axilla, lymph nodes, and chest wall. At this stage, the breast may show an orange-peel appearance.
Stage 3C: The cancerous tissue extends to the neck region, including the clavicle area, axilla, and lymph nodes. Multiple cancerous cells are present in the breast.
Stage 4: In the final stage of breast cancer, the tumor has spread to organs such as the liver, lungs, and bones.
How Is the Stage of Breast Cancer Determined?
The stages of breast cancer are determined through three types of tests. First, the results of physical examination and radiological imaging are evaluated. The size of the tumor is crucial in these results. Second, the involvement of lymph nodes is checked. Third, metastasis in any part of the body is assessed. These three factors are used to determine the stage of breast cancer.
How Are the Stages of Breast Cancer Identified?
Diagnosing breast cancer involves multiple tests and examinations, including physical examination, breast ultrasound, mammography, and breast biopsy. Identifying the stage of breast cancer is a critical step for successful treatment. Staging before treatment determines whether chemotherapy or hormonal therapy is necessary, depending on the stage and subtype. Early-stage breast cancer can often be treated with surgery, followed by additional treatments as needed. Advanced-stage breast cancer typically starts with supplementary treatments such as chemotherapy to shrink the tumor before proceeding with breast-conserving surgery. Radiotherapy is often considered a standard treatment at this stage.
