Diagnosis
Dealing with diagnosis; creating a plan

According to the National Cancer Institute, when breast cancer is found early and is still localized, the relative survival rate is 97 percent at five years. When breast cancer is found at a regional stage (has grown beyond the original or primary tumors), the survival rate at five years is 87 percent.

• If cancer is found in your breast, your doctor will want to know the stage or extent of the disease. This is done to find if the cancer has spread and, if so, to what parts of the body. Learn about the different stages of cancer.
     
• Your doctor may use blood and imaging tests to learn the stage of the disease and treatment decisions will depend on these findings. There are a variety of diagnostic procedures available to you and your doctor.
     
• Should you be diagnosed with breast cancer, be sure to make an appointment with the Breast Care Coordinator (BCC). The BCC is available to patients as a personal contact for support, information, and guidance in dealing with breast cancer throughout their healthcare experience in a compassionate and caring environment. 
     
• Take some time to learn about this disease and what diagnostic procedures are available:
  • About Breast Cancer
  • About Breast Cancer in Men
       
• You should also be familiar with the different treatment options that might be recommended by your doctor.