Breast cancer: Understanding risk and diagnosis 

Written by Dr. Tahereh Soleimani, breast surgeon at IU Health West 

Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent cancers affecting women worldwide. Understanding the factors that contribute to increased risk and the appropriate steps for screening and prevention is crucial in mitigating the impact of this disease.

Identifying High-Risk Individuals 

Individuals are considered at high risk for breast cancer based on specific personal factors or family history. Key factors include: 

• Personal Factors: Older age, early onset of menstruation, absence of previous pregnancy, long-term hormone replacement, dense breast, a history of previous biopsy and certain genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene, can increase the risk of developing breast cancer. 

• Family History: Having a first-degree relative (parent, sibling or child) with breast cancer, especially diagnosed at a young age as well as family history of ovarian cancer can increase one's risk. 

What to Expect After Breast Cancer Diagnosis 

Upon diagnosis, your healthcare team will conduct various tests to determine the specific characteristics of your cancer. These may include imaging studies and biopsies to assess the tumor's size, location and whether it has spread. This information is crucial in formulating an effective treatment plan. 

First Steps in Treatment 

Treatment strategies are tailored to each individual's unique situation. Common approaches include: 

• Surgery: This is often the initial treatment for early-stage breast cancer. The extent of surgery varies based on tumor size, location and patient preference. 

• Radiation Therapy: Utilized to eliminate any remaining cancer cells post-surgery, reducing the risk of recurrence. 

• Chemotherapy: Involves using drugs to target and destroy cancer cells, especially if there's a higher risk of the disease spreading. 

• Hormone Therapy: Effective for cancers that are hormone receptor-positive, this therapy blocks the body's natural hormones from fueling cancer growth. 

Through our partnership with the IU School of Medicine, IU Health offers the most comprehensive, leading-edge treatment options, including innovative surgical techniques, access to a robust pipeline of clinical trials and the most up-to-date novel therapies available. 

The Role of a Breast Surgeon 

A breast surgeon plays a pivotal role in guiding patients through their treatment journey. They are often the first “cancer doctor” that the patient sees, and are responsible for: 

• Coordinating Care: Working closely with medical oncologists and other specialists to ensure a cohesive treatment plan. 

• Providing Education and Support: Helping patients understand their diagnosis and treatment options. 

• Performing Surgical Procedures: Depending on the case, this could range from a lumpectomy (removing the tumor with a margin of surrounding tissue) to a mastectomy (removal of one or both breasts), as well as lymph node surgery.

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is challenging, but with a knowledgeable and compassionate healthcare team, patients can approach treatment with confidence and hope. The IU Health West Cancer Center provides the full spectrum of cancer care for patients from the westside of Indianapolis and beyond. We bring together a diverse team of cancer experts. This includes surgeons, oncologists, radiation oncologists, nurses, nutritionists and social workers. To learn more, visit iuhealth.org/breast-care.