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Breast cancer
Breast cancer is when abnormal cells in the breast begin to grow and eventually form a growth (tumour) which can spread within and beyond the breast. Anyone can get breast cancer, but it is most common in women. Breast cancer can often be found early on a mammogram, which can save lives and improve treatment outcomes.
Symptoms of breast cancer
There may be no warning signs that you have breast cancer. Some signs and symptoms may include:
- a new lump in the breast
- nipple discharge
- changes in the nipple, such as turning inwards, ulcers, new itch, persisting redness
- changes in the breast such as shape or size, or changes on the skin of the breast such as skin dimpling, redness
- pain in the breast that does not go away.
It is important that you take the time to learn the normal look and feel of your breasts. Knowing what is normal will help to find any breast changes. Get any concerning changes checked by your general practice (GP) or healthcare provider as soon as possible.
Diagnosing breast cancer
Early diagnosis of breast cancer while it is still small gives you the best chance of better treatment outcomes and recovery. Having regular mammograms can help find breast cancer early.
If you notice a change in your breasts, or a mammogram picks up something unusual, you may need to have further tests. These could include:
- a physical examination of your breasts
- a diagnostic mammogram
- an ultrasound scan
- an MRI scan
- a biopsy — taking a tissue sample to look at under a microscope.
Treating breast cancer
The treatment for breast cancer depends on the type and stage (how far it has spread), your age, general health and preferences.
Treatment options may include:
- breast conserving surgery (a wide local excision to remove the cancer and a rim of normal tissue) or a mastectomy (removal of the breast)
- x-rays to destroy the cancer cells (radiation therapy)
- medicines to stop the growth and spread of cancer (hormone therapy, chemotherapy).
The Cancer Society and the Breast Cancer Foundation NZ have has more detailed information on breast cancer treatments.
Treatment of breast cancer — Cancer Societyexternal link
Treatment options — Breast Cancer Foundation NZexternal link
Breast cancer recovery videos
These videos show post-operative recovery exercises for women in the early weeks following mastectomy, lumpectomy, or lymph node removal.
They are supported by Otago Medical School, Cancer Society, and the Breast Cancer Foundation.
English: Exercises after breast cancer surgery — YouTubeexternal link
English for Pacific women: Exercises after breast cancer surgery — YouTubeexternal link
Te reo: He koringa mō muri i te hāpara mate pukupuku ū — YouTubeexternal link
Samoan: Fa'amalositino Pe 'A Mae' Le Ta'otoga o le Kanesa o le Susu — YouTubeexternal link