Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer Basics
Breast cancer is forms in tissues of the breast, usually the ducts (tubes that carry milk to the nipple) and lobules (glands that make milk). It occurs in both men and women, although male breast cancer is rare.   According to the National Cancer Institute, a woman should see her health care provider about breast pain or any other symptom that does not go away, though early breast cancer usually does not cause pain. The most common symptoms of breast cancer include:

• A change in how the breast or nipple feels
  • A lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the underarm area
  • Nipple tenderness
• A change in how the breast or nipple looks
  • A change in the size or shape of the breast
  • A nipple turned inward into the breast
  • The skin of the breast, areola, or nipple may be scaly, red, or swollen. It may have ridges or pitting so that it looks like the skin of an orange.
• Nipple discharge (fluid)

Any woman with these symptoms should tell her doctor so that problems can be diagnosed and treated as early as possible.

For more information:
Preventing, Finding and Treating Breast Cancer
What You Need to Know About™ Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer Treatment at Providence Regional Cancer Centers
Supported by state-of-the-art technologies and a highly skilled support staff, the specialists of Providence Regional Cancer Centers collaborate to provide the most advanced, comprehensive approach to cancer treatment available in the San Fernando and Santa Clarita Valleys.  Our patients benefit from a host of programs and services, including—

Breast Cancer Screening and Detection

Advanced Technology

• Chemotherapy
• Computer-Assisted Microscopic and Endoscopic Neurological Surgery
• Computer-Assisted Stereotactic Radiosurgery
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Infusion Therapy
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
• Radiation Therapy
• Robot-Assisted Surgery
• Tumor Board for Coordination of Multidisciplinary Care

Comprehensive, Compassionate Support Services

• Dietary Counseling
• Home Care
• Hospice and Palliative Care
• Integrative Medicine (complementary and alternative cancer treatment)
• Lymphedema Program 
• Personal Appearance Rehabilitation Service
• Rehabilitation  
• Education, Outreach and Support

Quality Outcomes: Providence Regional Cancer Centers Annual Report

Schedule an Appointment
For a referral to a board-certified, Providence-affiliated physician, please contact our Health Resource Center at 1-888-HEALING (1-888-432-5464).  Or you can find a cancer treatment specialist by searching our online physician directory.

Clinical Trials
Learn about cancer clinical trials.  Search our online database.