Advancements in Breast Cancer Screening and Treatment

Breast cancer remains the most common cancer diagnosis among women and the second leading cause of cancer-related death. While it most frequently affects post-menopausal women, it's important to recognize that younger women are also at risk.

The numbers speak for themselves: this year alone, the American Cancer Society estimates more than 310,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed, along with an additional 50,000 cases of ductal carcinoma in-situ (DCIS), an early, non-invasive form of the disease. These statistics, while sobering, only tell part of the story.

What’s missing from the numbers is the progress we’ve made. We are now diagnosing breast cancer earlier than ever before, thanks to advancements in mammogram technology, and our treatment options have become more targeted and effective.

Mammograms Are Key to Early Diagnosis

For many women, an early diagnosis means breast cancer is a more treatable condition than a death sentence. Mammograms are a cornerstone of breast health and remain the only screening tool proven to reduce a woman's risk of dying from breast cancer. The importance of regular mammograms cannot be overstated, and most major health organizations, including the United States Preventive Services Task Force, now recommend that women begin annual screenings at age 40.

While guidelines may vary slightly among different medical bodies, the consensus among cancer experts is clear: annual mammograms are essential. Detecting even the smallest changes from year to year can lead to earlier diagnoses, significantly improving a woman's chances of survival.

Difference Between 2D and 3D Mammograms

In recent years, 3D mammography, or tomosynthesis, has emerged as a more advanced and reliable option compared to traditional 2D mammograms. This technology offers a more detailed view of breast tissue, increasing the likelihood of detecting cancers early while reducing false-positive results. As a result, 3D mammograms are now widely recommended as the optimal screening method.

Breast Density and Cancer Detection

Another critical consideration is breast density. Approximately 50% of younger women have dense or very dense breast tissue, which can make cancer detection more difficult. Women with dense or extremely dense breasts should discuss their personal and family history with their doctor, as screening recommendations may need to be individualized if other risk factors are present.

Racial Disparities Impact Health Outcomes

It's also important to highlight the racial disparities in breast cancer outcomes. Black women are more likely to be diagnosed with aggressive forms of breast cancer and are at a higher risk of dying from the disease than non-black women. This makes regular screening and early detection particularly urgent for Black women.

Mammograms, combined with a personalized approach to risk assessment and screening, give women their best chance at detecting breast cancer early and improving their odds of beating the disease. With the right tools and a continued focus on early detection, we can continue to improve survival rates and help even more women beat the disease. 

Advancements in Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer Treatment

Radiation therapy has long been a key component of breast cancer treatment, and recent advancements have made it more effective, convenient, and less toxic for patients. Today, women can undergo shorter treatment courses, reducing hospital visits and allowing more time for daily activities. Enhanced imaging techniques and improvements in radiation delivery have increased accuracy and precision, minimizing damage to healthy tissues.

Deep Inspiration Breath Hold

One notable advancement is the deep inspiration breath hold (DIBH) technique, primarily used for treating left-sided breast cancers. By having the patient take a deep breath and hold it during radiation therapy, the heart is shifted away from the treatment area, significantly reducing the risk of heart disease in the long term.

Partial Breast Radiation

Another improvement is the option of partial breast radiation for certain patients with early-stage breast cancer. This technique targets only the area where the tumor was removed, rather than the entire breast, helping to reduce side effects and the number of treatments needed.

No Radiation for Low-Risk Patients

For some low-risk, early-stage breast cancer patients, radiation therapy can sometimes be safely omitted from the treatment plan. This decision, however, is highly personalized, depending on factors such as tumor characteristics, patient age, and overall health.

Ongoing research continues to explore new techniques and technologies to further enhance radiation therapy for breast cancer. These discoveries, along with developments in surgery and medical oncology, are improving outcomes for patients facing this all-too-common disease.

Choosing the Right Cancer Treatment Location

If you have a cancer diagnosis, it’s important to be treated at a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary breast center where specialists work together to ensure the most up to date surgical care, medical treatment, and radiation therapy is provided. Additionally, patients should have access to genetic counselors, social workers, financial and nurse navigators, as well as supportive and integrative health services. This holistic approach allows individuals to focus on their mind, body, and spirit during an undoubtedly stressful time.

Natasha Rueth, MD, is a surgical oncologist and chief of breast cancer services at Memorial Cancer Institute, where she specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with the disease.

Christine Feng, MD, is a radiation oncologist at Memorial Cancer Institute and chief of Pediatric Radiation Oncology at Memorial Healthcare System where she treats patients with a variety of cancers.