What You Should Know
Breast cancer develops when breast cells grow out of control, most often in the ducts that carry milk or the lobules that produce it. Though far more common in women, men can also be affected. The encouraging news is that breast cancer is highly treatable when detected early, with survival outcomes among the best of all cancers. Staying aware of your breast health and keeping up with regular screenings are important steps in protecting yourself and those you love.
Why Choose Us for Breast Cancer Treatment?
- Florida’s only Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Alliance member, offering advanced expertise and clinical trials.
- Molecular diagnostics for personalized, targeted treatment plans.
- Advanced imaging, including 3D mammography and MRI, at a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence.
- Multidisciplinary team of oncologists, surgeons, reconstructive specialists, genetic counselors and support staff.
- Tumor board review ensures each case is evaluated by multiple experts.
- Survivorship programs with monitoring, lifestyle guidance and emotional support.
Breast Cancer by the Numbers
Knowledge and early detection are powerful tools in the fight against breast cancer.
women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime
of cases are linked to inherited genetic mutations
annual mammograms are recommended starting at age 40, or earlier if you have risk factors
survival rate when breast cancer is detected early
Breast Cancer Awareness: Real Stories. Real Strength.
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What Are the Different Types of Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the breast grow and divide uncontrollably, forming tumors. These tumors may remain localized or spread to other areas.
Common Subtypes Include:
- Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): Early, noninvasive cancer in the milk ducts.
- Invasive ductal carcinoma: Most common type, begins in milk ducts and invades surrounding tissue.
- Invasive lobular carcinoma: Begins in milk-producing lobules.
- Triple-negative breast cancer: More aggressive, not driven by estrogen, progesterone, or HER2.
- HER2-positive breast cancer: Driven by excess HER2 protein.
- Inflammatory breast cancer: Rare and aggressive, causing swelling and redness.
- Male breast cancer: Though rare, men can develop breast cancer.
What Are the Symptoms of Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer symptoms can vary. Common signs include:
- A new lump or mass in the breast or underarm.
- Change in size, shape, or appearance of the breast.
- Nipple discharge (other than breast milk).
- Skin changes: dimpling, redness, or thickening.
- Pain in the breast or nipple.
When to See a Doctor: If you notice changes that last more than a few weeks, schedule an evaluation promptly.
How Is Breast Cancer Diagnosed?
At Miami Cancer Institute, we use advanced imaging and minimally invasive procedures to confirm a diagnosis:
- Mammography (2D and 3D)
- Ultrasound
- MRI
- Image-guided biopsy
Staging: Once diagnosed, cancer is staged to determine severity and guide treatment. Stages range from 0 (noninvasive) to IV (spread beyond the breast).
How Is Breast Cancer Treated?
Treatment is personalized based on cancer type, stage, and your overall health. Options may include:
Surgery
- Lumpectomy
- Mastectomy (including skin- and nipple-sparing options)
- Reconstructive surgery (implants, flap procedures, fat grafting)
Radiation Therapy
- Targeted radiation treatments tailored to minimize side effects.
Medical Therapies
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy
- Targeted therapy
- Hormone therapy
Risk Factors & Prevention
Breast cancer develops due to a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors.
Non-modifiable risks:
- Sex: Women account for ~99% of cases due to higher estrogen exposure.
- Age: Risk increases after age 50.
- Family history: Having a first-degree relative with breast cancer doubles risk.
- Genetic mutations: BRCA1/2 or PALB2 mutations greatly increase risk.
Modifiable risks:
- Obesity: Extra fat tissue increases estrogen, which can fuel tumor growth.
- Lack of activity: Physical activity lowers hormone levels and inflammation.
- Alcohol use: Alcohol raises estrogen levels, increasing risk.
- Smoking: Toxins in tobacco can damage breast tissue DNA.
- Hormone therapy: Long-term hormone use raises estrogen and progesterone exposure.
Prevention Tips:
- Schedule regular mammograms (starting at age 40 or earlier if high-risk).
- Maintain a healthy weight and diet rich in plants.
- Exercise regularly.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol.
Outcomes & Prognosis
When detected early, most breast cancers are highly treatable. Outcomes depend on:
- Cancer type and stage.
- Tumor biology (hormone receptor and HER2 status).
- Response to therapy.
Survival Rates:
- Localized breast cancer: 5-year survival rate ~99%.
- Regional (spread to lymph nodes): ~86%.
- Distant (metastatic): ~30%.
Ongoing follow-up care, healthy lifestyle changes, and survivorship support all improve outcomes.
Life After Breast Cancer Treatment
Life after treatment looks different for everyone. At MCI, our survivorship programs help patients adjust to life beyond treatment with:
- Nutrition and exercise support
- Counseling and support groups
- Lymphedema management and rehabilitation
- Ongoing monitoring for recurrence
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes. When detected early, most breast cancers are highly treatable with excellent outcomes.
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You may need additional imaging or a biopsy. MCI also offers second opinions through our Benign Breast Clinic.
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Yes. Although rare, about 1% of all breast cancers occur in men.
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Our Survivorship Program helps manage side effects, supports mental health, and reduces risk of recurrence.
Pharmacists Play a Key Role in Breast Cancer Care
At Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute, pharmacists are fully integrated into breast oncology care, working side by side with physicians, advanced practice providers, and care teams. Clinical pharmacy specialists support patients receiving advanced therapies such as CDK4/6 inhibitors by tailoring treatment plans, counseling patients and caregivers, and closely monitoring for side effects. From managing complex drug interactions to reinforcing adherence and providing education, pharmacists play a vital role in ensuring that each patient feels supported, informed and empowered throughout treatment.
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