Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, other than skin cancer. It is the second leading cause of cancer death in women after lung cancer. The American Cancer Society predicts that there will be about 182,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer in the year 2000. Fortunately, deaths from breast cancer have declined significantly, which is thought to be due to better detection and improved treatment. Screening by breast exam and regular mammogram as recommended greatly increases the chance of early diagnosis and is important for women of all ages.
Recurrent cancer means the disease has recurred despite initial treatment.
Most recurrences appear within the first 2 or 3 years but can occur many years later. Once a breast cancer is diagnosed, the focus of care depends on the stage of disease and the personal goals of the individual. An elderly woman with a less aggressive type of cancer may wish to avoid aggressive treatments and pursue palliative treatments, while for a younger woman, aggressive therapy targeted at achieving remission is usually desired. Treatment strategy depends on the stage of disease and the goals of care for the individual. This is the same type of information that is available to physicians and other health care professionals.