It is associated by many investigators with a more ominous course of cancer and diminished survival. Biopsies are surgically removed samples of the cancer analyzed by pathologists. Follow up analyses were performed to evaluate the patient's success after treatment. In contrast, older age and post-menopausal status were significantly associated with longer survival. Until the time that treatment is perfected for all those with breast cancer, the best policy is avoidance or early detection.
Avoidance is difficult.
Presently early detection is best done by a thorough monthly self-examination, physician examination and routine mammography.