Saint Francis Health System, based in Tulsa, OK, treats breast cancer and raises community awareness about the disease to help increase survival rates. Public support for breast cancer awareness and research funding has helped improve diagnosis and treatment methods. Survival rates have increased and the number of deaths has steadily declined, thanks to a number of factors such as early detection, new treatments and a better understanding of the disease.

Breast Cancer Facts and Stats

Breast cancer is a malignant (cancerous) tumor that starts in the cells of the breasts. The main parts of the female breast are lobules (glands that make breast milk), ducts (milk passages that connect the lobules and the nipple), fatty and connective tissue, blood vessels and lymph vessels. Most breast cancers begin in the breast ducts (ductal).

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, second only to skin cancer. According to National Cancer Institute reports, 12.4 percent of women born in the United States today will develop breast cancer at some time during their lifetime. Breast cancer occurs mostly in women, but it can happen in men as well. Often, there are no symptoms of breast cancer, but signs can include a breast lump or an abnormal mammogram. Breast cancer stages range from early to metastatic, with a variety of treatment options available at each stage.

Types of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer may be invasive or non-invasive. Invasive breast cancer means it has spread from the milk duct or lobule to other tissues in the breast. Non-invasive breast cancer, or "in situ," means the cancer has not yet invaded other breast tissue.

• Ductal carcinoma starts in the ducts that move milk from the breast to the nipple. Most breast cancer cases fall into this category. Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), or intraductal carcinoma, may progress to invasive cancer if untreated, which again underscores the vital importance of early detection and screenings.
• Lobular carcinoma starts in the lobules that produce milk. Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) is a marker for an increased risk of invasive cancer in the same or both breasts.

As recommended by the American Cancer Society, women of all ages should know how their breasts normally look and feel and report any breast changes to a healthcare provider right away. Starting at age 40, women should talk with their doctor about starting annual mammograms. It is recommended that by 45 years of age, women start having annual mammograms. 

Learn More About Cancer Services Provided by Saint Francis

For additional information or to schedule a consultation with a cancer specialist, please call Saint Francis HealthLink at 918-488-6688. 

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