Last updated 5 days ago
Breast cancer is not a condition exclusive to women and can be a threat to men. In both men and women, breast tumors grow rapidly through the process of mitosis.
This video demonstrates the process of breast tumor growth and shows how tumors may double in size over a period of 30 days. Therefore, monthly breast exams are important for the earliest possible detection of breast tissue abnormalities. A small growth may be undetectable one month but large enough to feel through the skin by the next month.
To learn how to properly perform a self-exam or to schedule comprehensive breast cancer screening, contact the office of Marla W. Dudak, M.D. Schedule a consultation with us on our website or call (888) 418-6759 today.
Last updated 5 days ago
A fibroadenoma is a small, round bump in the breast tissue that is non-cancerous and often occurs without symptoms. Most fibroadenomas are less than two inches in diameter, but they can be a concern for women performing breast self-exams at home. If you do identify a growth of this nature, be aware that it is likely harmless to your health but should be brought to the attention of a doctor who can diagnose the lump. Below are the steps your doctor will take to monitor and treat the growth.
- Medical imaging: Mammography is the standard imaging technique for breast tissue, but it can produce hard-to-read results in younger women, who tend to have denser breast tissue. Therefore, women under the age of 30 may be evaluated using ultrasound imaging. In either case, the test will show the exact size and location of the lump.
- Needle biopsy: To evaluate whether the growth is non-cancerous, a biopsy will be performed using a long needle to obtain sample tissue. The sample is then tested in the lab for cancerous cells.
- Surgery: Even though fibroadenomas do not present a serious medical problem, many women choose to have them surgically removed to reduce their anxiety. Surgery is also recommended if the results of the imaging or biopsy are abnormal.
- Non-surgical treatment: Some fibroadenomas go away on their own, so surgery can be reserved for a later treatment or rendered unnecessary. If surgery is not selected as primary treatment, the growth will be monitored during follow-up visits to the doctor so any changes in size can be addressed.
To find out which method of fibroadenoma treatment is right for you, schedule a consultation at the office of Dr. Marla W. Dudak. Our practice is solely focused on the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer and related issues. Contact us on our website or call (888) 418-6759 for more information.
Last updated 12 days ago
Our recent blog posts discussed the benefits of breast cancer screening and available treatment options. You can find more information about these subjects by clicking through the links below. To get your annual breast cancer screening, visit the office of Dr. Marla W. Dudak in Boca Raton. Schedule an appointment with us online or by calling (888) 418-6759.
Last updated 12 days ago
Learning that a friend, spouse, or family member has been diagnosed with breast cancer can bring a variety of emotional responses, and you will probably want to reach out and help your loved one with your support. Below are some guidelines to help you offer the most positive support throughout the diagnosis and treatment process.
- Offer to help with household tasks: Breast cancer treatments like surgery and chemotherapy can be physically and mentally exhausting for patients, so it is beneficial for family members to help with chores, grocery shopping, cooking, and other daily activities. Let your loved one know that you are available to assist with these tasks, but be willing to give her space when she needs it.
- Talk to the doctor: Understanding how breast cancer progresses and what treatment options are most beneficial is important when someone close to you is diagnosed. Ask if you can accompany your loved one to the doctor, and be prepared with questions that you may have to help you gain a clearer perspective on the situation.
- Be open to communication: For many women, having a reliable friend or family member to talk to is a great comfort. Working through cancer treatment is emotionally difficult, and it can help to express these feelings. You may also consider attending support groups with your loved one if she is having difficulties with the diagnosis.
- Take time to work through your feelings: In order to provide the best emotional support for your loved one, it is important to work through your own feelings. You may be feeling anger, sadness, denial, or even guilt, and these emotions can take a toll on you during a time when you wish to be strong for someone else. Remember that it is normal to experience these feelings and there are options such as counseling and family support groups that can provide assistance.
For more information about breast cancer treatment, contact the office of Marla W. Dudak, M.D. online or at (888) 418-6759. Our Boca Raton practice is dedicated to screening, diagnosis, and treatment of breast cancer with a compassionate, experienced team of medical professionals.
Last updated 21 days ago
Understanding the stage of breast cancer is important to your physician’s determination of which type of treatment will most benefit you.
This video reviews the stages of breast cancer and how the extent of the disease is determined by considering factors such as tumor size and invasiveness. The stages range from zero to four with subcategories in stages two and three. By the time stage four is reached, the cancer has become metastatic and spread to other parts of the body. The highest chances for successful treatment are when the cancer is in the earliest stages.
For more help understanding a breast cancer diagnosis, contact Dr. Marla W. Dudak online or at (888) 418-6759. Dr. Dudak’s mission is to prevent, treat, and cure breast cancer.
