Breast cancer is one of the more common – and treatable – forms of cancer, especially when caught early. You can trust us for education, early detection and screening, genetic risk factor assessment and next steps after a diagnosis.
When you’re diagnosed with breast cancer, every day counts. We help you review and understand your options quickly. Our compassionate care team provides in-depth expertise, and your nurse navigator will be with you every step of the way so you can begin treatment within days after cancer is detected.
Breast cancer detection and diagnosis
Abnormalities in breast tissue are common. When you notice a lump or a change in your breast at home, or when something is detected during a clinical breast exam or mammogram, we’ll work quickly to get a diagnosis. You’ll usually be referred to our advanced imaging services and may need a biopsy or a nipple discharge exam. A pathologist, a doctor who specializes in diagnosing disease, will look at your cell samples to identify the presence of breast cancer and determine its type and whether it’s noninvasive or invasive.
Read about mammography and other imaging services.
In some instances, genetic testing may be offered. Learn more about genetic counseling and testing.
Breast cancer in men
While breast cancer occurs most often in women, a small percentage occurs in men. Many of the symptoms, diagnostic techniques and treatments are similar for breast cancer in women and men.
Innovative technologies offered at SCL Health
We target breast tumors with some of the most advanced treatments and technology available. Our accredited breast cancer programs may offer:
- Breast density measurement – A revolutionary imaging technology that allows a radiologist to assess breast density with mammography to better detect breast cancer in its earliest and most curable stages.
- Cancer cell detection – An innovative technology that allows breast surgeons to detect and remove microscopic cancer cells while still in surgery, thereby reducing the need for additional operations.
- Radiation oncology targeting – A medical device that allows radiation oncologists to precisely target areas of the breast where a cancerous tumor was removed.
- Non-wire localization systems – A new surgical guidance system that eliminates the need to implant an uncomfortable external guide wire before surgery (the guide wire is standard at every other breast center in Colorado).
You will need to call your local hospital to learn which of these options are available in your area.
