Early stage breast cancer: What to know about signs and symptoms

Breast cancer as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is “a disease in which cells in the breast grow out of control.” It is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in women, and approximately 264,000 new cases are diagnosed in the United States each year.

Receiving a diagnosis of cancer can be devastating. However, early detection of breast cancer can have a significant impact on a patient’s prognosis. Data shows that women who are diagnosed with breast cancer before it has a chance to spread have a 99% five-year relative survival rate. 

Below, we will explore the definition of early breast cancer, its signs and symptoms, and available treatment options. We will also discuss the significance of early breast cancer clinical trials, and share helpful tips for anyone considering participating in research.

What is early breast cancer?

In the United States, the majority of breast cancer is early breast cancer. Early breast cancer has not yet spread to other parts of the body and has stayed localized to the breast and nearby lymph nodes. Typically, early breast cancer will be Stage 0, 1, or 2.

What are the early signs of breast cancer?

In the case of breast cancer, early symptoms can be challenging to spot since they vary from person to person. The most common breast cancer early sign is a new lump or mass in the breast tissue, especially if it is painless and hard. Other symptoms can include swelling of the breast tissue, skin dimpling, pain in the breast or nipple, and swelling of the lymph nodes under the arm or near the collarbone.

Tips for the early detection of breast cancer

Detecting breast cancer early is extremely important, as identifying cancer early can improve treatment outcomes. The American Cancer Society has breast cancer screening guidelines for women that are designed to help with early detection.

For those with an average risk level, they recommend that women get mammograms every year between the ages of 45 and 54, while women 55 and older can reduce to every other year. For women with a family history of breast cancer or those with an otherwise increased risk, they recommend a breast MRI and a mammogram every year beginning at age 30.

Early breast cancer treatment options

The treatment options for early breast cancer will depend on the stage of the cancer as well as the age and health of the person. For Stage 0 breast cancer, patients will generally have the option of tumor removal or a mastectomy. This is also usually the case with Stage 1 and Stage 2 cancers, but doctors may also recommend following the surgery with radiation, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy depending on the size and location of the tumors.

Clinical trials for early breast cancer

In addition to the above treatment options, participating in early breast cancer clinical trials can provide an alternative for those who have been diagnosed with the condition. Patients choose to take part in clinical trials for many reasons, including having access to potentially better treatment options delivered by condition-specific specialists. Additionally, participating in clinical trials allows individuals to contribute to medical breakthroughs and the advancement of breast cancer research. If you’d like to learn more about the early breast cancer clinical trials enrolling now, click the button below to get started.