breast cancermedical dictionary

<oncology> The uncontrolled growth of malignant breast tissue.

Breast cancer is currently the most common cancer in women and the leading cause of cancer-related death in the 15-54 age group.

Strong risk factors include a prior history for breast cancer or a positive family history for breast cancer.

Early detection is possible through the use of monthly breast self-examination, annual clinical exams and mammography.

WWW: cancerNET document for patients

WWW: cancerNET document for clinicians

(05 Jan 1998)