Breast Health: Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer mortality among women in the United States. Screening has been shown to increase early detection rates and decrease mortality rates. Evidence-based guidelines have been updated as knowledge has advanced. Screening recommendations from various organizations vary significantly. These variations-from screening modality, age to initiate and discontinue screening, and screening intervals-have led to confusion among patients and clinicians alike. Clinicians should be aware of the current screening recommendations so they can address questions patients may have about recommendation differences and to optimize early detection. Management of breast cancer is highly individualized and dependent on the subtype of cancer, the stage at diagnosis, patient preferences, and physician recommendations. Management may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and/or hormone therapy. Family physicians can help facilitate patient care throughout the screening, diagnosis, and treatment processes. Multiple factors contribute to disparities in breast cancer screening, management, and outcomes. Clinician knowledge of these factors can help reduce disparities in care and patient outcomes.