Breast Cancer

Risk Factors and Prevention of Breast Cancer

◊	Breast Cancer: What is Your Risk?
	Breast cancer can strike any woman. But certain lifestyle choices and personal traits - including your genetic makeup - can affect your risk. What are the major factors, and how can you determine your risk? Join us as we talk to Seema Kahn, MD, of the Northwestern Medical School, for a detailed look at this important issue. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	Breast Cancer Recurrence: What are the Odds?
	Sometimes breast cancer comes back. That's why doctors prescribe treatment to reduce the risk of recurrence after surgery. Listen as experts explain what follow-up treatment can do. Watch Video Read Transcript Fast Facts: Can changes in lifestyle, such as diet, reduce the risk of recurrence of breast cancer?

Diagnosis and Screening of Breast Cancer

◊	Interpreting Mammograms
	While a mammogram is one of the most important tests a woman can take, its findings often seem complex to many women. Learn what doctors look for when they interpret x-ray films of the breast. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	Understanding the Stages of Breast Cancer
	Breast cancer stages tell us the characteristics of the cancer and if it has spread beyond the breast tissue. Doctors can use this information to guide treatment decisions. Learn how staging is vital in determining next steps. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	Talking to Your Doctor About Early-Stage Breast Cancer
	Finding out you have early-stage breast cancer can be overwhelming. But you can get a handle on the disease by learning some very crucial things about your own cancer. Getting the proper tests to determine the stage and characteristics of your cancer can help dictate what treatments are appropriate. Assembling the right team of doctors who are not only skilled, but also easy to talk to is another key element for managing the disease in the best possible way. Watch Video Read Transcript Fast Fact: What are the treatment options for a woman with early-stage breast cancer?
◊	Breast Cancer Screening Explained
	For many women, screening for breast cancer is terrifying prospect. To help lessen some of this fear, our panel will discuss the importance of screening and take you through some of the processes. What is a self-exam and how often should they be done? What is a mammogram? Where do you get one? What does it mean to have an "abnormal mammogram"? What other tests are available and when are they needed? Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	What Women at High Risk Can Do to Prevent Breast Cancer
	Our panel will discuss medical strategies reducing one's risk of developing breast cancer. Topics will include: How might the drugs Tamoxifen and Raloxifene help reduce breast cancer risk? What are the side effects of these medications? Who qualifies for these drug treatments? Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	Technologies in Breast Cancer: Positron Emission Tomography
	Already used to evaluate such conditions as lung cancer and brain tumors, PET scanning is emerging as a useful tool to help determine how far breast tumors have spread. On our webcast, we'll visit a leading breast PET center at the Duke University Medical Center to watch this fascinating technology in action. We'll take you through the process from beginning to end, and talk to a leading breast radiologist about how PET scanning works and how it is used to diagnose breast cancer. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	Technologies in Breast Cancer: Digital Mammography
	Touted as the "single biggest advance in mammography in 30 years," digital mammography has recently gained FDA approval for the screening and diagnosis of breast cancer. On our webcast, we'll visit a top digital mammography center and get a first-hand view of this new imaging technique in action. You'll see a patient undergoing digital mammography, then watch as the images are manipulated to achieve a more powerful diagnosis. We'll also interview the breast radiologist who interprets the scans for further insight into this new and important technology. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	Technologies in Breast Cancer: Breast Ultrasound
	When a suspicious mass in the breast is found by mammography or felt by a patient, a follow-up imaging study is usually recommended. One such study, breast ultrasound, has been a proven diagnostic tool for several years. On our webcast, we'll visit a top breast ultrasound suite and go through the process step by step with a real patient. A breast radiologist will be on hand to explain how the procedure works, and discuss how breast ultrasound is used to diagnose the area of concern. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	Technologies in Breast Cancer: Breast MRI
	Although Magnetic Resonance Imaging has been used as a powerful tool in other fields for several years, its use for diagnosing breast cancer is a new development. Today, there is an increasing role for breast MRI in certain patients. On our webcast, we'll go on location to a breast MRI center as a patient undergoes the procedure. You'll see actual images generated by the MRI, while a breast radiologist points out suspicious areas in the patient's anatomy and discusses when breast MRIs are most useful. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	Genetic Testing for Breast Cancer
	Each year, more than 180,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer. The majority of these cases are not genetic, but about five to ten percent are. If a woman has a strong family history of breast cancer and is concerned about developing cancer, there are genetic screening tests that can be performed. Please join our panel of experts as they explain the risks and benefits of genetic testing and the role BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes play in screening for breast cancer. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	Breast Cancer Detection
	Advances in breast cancer treatment always spark a lot of interest. But equally important are new techniques for detection and diagnosis -- in most cases, early detection means a better chance of recovery. Join Dr. Seema Khan as she talks about the very latest in breast cancer diagnosis. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	A New Voice in Breast Cancer Activism: Soraya's Story
	Award-winning Latina singer-songwriter Soraya has had her share of personal tragedy. She lost her grandmother, her maternal aunt, and her mother to breast cancer. But nothing could have prepared her for her own breast cancer diagnosis at the age of 31. Listen to her story of recovery and why she joined forces with the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation to get an important message out about early detection to her Latino and Hispanic sisters. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	Genetics and Breast Cancer: What Do We Know?
	Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death in women in the United States and is the leading cause of cancer death in women between the ages of 40 and 55. Much hype has been made in the popular media surrounding the breast cancer genes, BRCA1 and BRCA2. But despite popular belief, 85 to 90 percent of breast cancer is NOT hereditary. Please join our panel of experts as they discuss the relationship between genetics and breast cancer. Topics will include: How common is hereditary cancer? How do women develop breast cancer if it is not hereditary? What are BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes? Are there any other breast cancer genes besides BRCA1 and BRCA2? Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	Breast Cancer Genetics
	There has been much talk in the popular media about the breast cancer genes BRCA1 and BRCA2--and researchers are currently in the process of mapping even more genes related to the development of breast cancer. Only 10 to 15 percent of breast cancers are hereditary, but genetic research will continue to further our understanding of this disease--and perhaps lead the way to a cure. Join our panel of experts for a look at the future of breast cancer genetics research. Watch Video Read Transcript

Breast Cancer Treatment Issues

◊	Preventing Breast Cancer Recurrence: What's Right for Me?
	Women and their doctors sometimes have different perspectives on the treatment for breast cancer. Listen to experts discuss treatment goals and the impact these have on daily life. Watch Video Read Transcript Fast Fact: What is a sentinel node biopsy?
◊	A Good Doctor-Patient Relationship in Breast Cancer
	Women with breast cancer face overwhelming decisions. And having the support of friends and family is key. But women who have been through it say that having a caring doctor, one who you know is looking out for your best interests, can make all the difference. Hear what patients and doctors have to say about pulling together a caring and coordinated treatment team. Watch Video Read Transcript Fast Fact: How can a woman educate herself about breast cancer?
◊	Advice To Women Newly Diagnosed With Breast Cancer
	Breast cancer is a disease that can turn a woman's world upside down. There seem to be a million questions that need to be answered. But there are ways to help organize not only how you treat the disease, but the way in which you approach getting the right information to make treatment decisions. Discover what doctors and patients say about becoming your own best advocate. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	What is Hormone Receptor Positive Breast Cancer?
	There are a variety of factors that determine what treatments doctors suggest for breast cancer. One crucial aspect of any breast cancer is whether it is hormone receptor positive. If it is, there are a variety of treatments that can help decrease the amount of estrogen in a woman's body helping to prevent the growth of the cancer. Discover how hormones can play a vital part in this disease. Watch Video Read Transcript Fast Fact: How is hormone receptor status of a breast cancer determined?
◊	Preparing For Side Effects: What to Expect From Breast Cancer Therapies
	A diagnosis of breast cancer usually leads to some form of surgery. Afterward, various therapies help guard against spread or recurrence of disease. Side effects are common, but many are more easily managed than just a few years ago. Listen as experts describe treatment options and explain what women can expect. Watch Video Read Transcript Fast Fact: What are the most common side effects of chemotherapy? Fast Fact: How do side effects of different hormonal treatments compare?
◊	What Is Adjuvant Therapy In Breast Cancer?
	Adjuvant therapy is a key in treating breast cancer. Once surgery is done, it is crucial to make sure the remaining cancer cells don't spread or grow. Science has developed a variety of treatments including radiation therapy, chemotherapy and hormonal treatment, which can help contain the cancer. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	Bone Complications in Breast Cancer
	When breast cancer spreads it often ends up in bone. This can cause severe pain, weaken the bones and result in fractures. Learn how these bone complications can be treated and even prevented, making life a little easier for the person with breast cancer. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	Caring for Bones During Cancer
	People living with cancer often face the prospect of their cancer spreading to the bone, or of their cancer treatments damaging bone strength. Learn what can be done to protect bone from the complications of cancer. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	Shoring up Bones in Many Types of Cancer
	While breaking a leg can be aggravating, a fracture in someone with cancer can be dangerous. Learn what doctors are doing to keep bones healthy in many types of cancers. Watch Video Read Transcript

Adjuvant Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer

◊	Adjuvant Therapy: Controlling the Spread of Breast Cancer
	When a woman is first diagnosed with breast cancer, the primary goal on her mind is to remove the tumor as quickly as possible. Equally important, however, is what's called adjuvant therapy, which is used to attack cancer that may have spread elsewhere in the body. Join Dr. William Gradishar as he discusses this crucial aspect of breast cancer treatment. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	Which Adjuvant Therapy is Right for Your Breast Cancer?
	Adjuvant therapy, which is used to treat the spread of cancer beyond the breast, is recommended for most breast cancer patients. There are several types of adjuvant therapy, and the best one for you depends on a number of factors, from your age to the size of your tumor. Join Dr. William Gradishar as he discusses how this therapy is tailored for individual patients. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	The Pros and Cons of Breast Cancer Adjuvant Therapy
	For most breast cancer patients, adjuvant therapy is a crucial part of treatment. Like many successful drug therapies, however, adjuvant therapy can cause a number of side effects. Join Dr. Hope Rugo as she discusses these side effects and how doctors keep them from outweighing the benefits of therapy. This webcast also features highlights from a town hall meeting held by the Celebrating Life Foundation, where leading experts in the field of breast cancer research discussed the latest advances in adjuvant therapy. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	How to Succeed With Breast Cancer Adjuvant Therapy
	Adjuvant therapy is usually required in the treatment of breast cancer. It can prevent the cancer from spreading to other parts of the body and thus significantly increase a patient's chances for cure and long-term survival. Join Dr. Hope Rugo as she discusses the latest developments in adjuvant therapy, and how it is improving success rates in breast cancer treatment. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	Anthracyclines in Adjuvant Breast Cancer Therapy: Survival Benefits
	Anthracyclines are becoming an increasingly important part of adjuvant therapy for breast cancer, with new data demonstrating its significant survival benefits. Join Dr. Kathy Pritchard and Dr. Hyman Muss as they discuss the latest studies from the 24th Annual San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	Anthracyclines for Breast Cancer: Does Stage Matter?
	Anthracycline-based therapy is a popular approach for the treatment of breast cancer in both early and advanced stages. Studies have shown that it can effectively prevent recurrence while preserving the patients quality of life. Tune is as doctors from the 24th Annual San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium share their thoughts about anthracyclines and the role they play in the different disease stages. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	Better Breast Cancer Therapy: Making Anthracyclines More Effective
	Anthracycline-based therapy is often recommended following surgery for breast cancer to reduce the risk of recurrence. This strategy has proved superior to non-anthracycline regimens but there's always room for improvement. Experts who attended the recent San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium discussed new regimens under investigation. Join some of these experts as they talk about some of the advances in anthracycline-treatment regimens. Watch Video Read Transcript

Hormonal Therapy for Breast Cancer

◊	Hormone Replacement Therapy vs. Hormonal Treatment: What's the Difference?
	Hormone replacement therapy was once used to help women combat the side effects of menopause. But recent studies indicate it may do more harm than good. On the other hand hormonal treatment of breast cancer is very different and can be very useful. In this therapy, doctors attempt to block the production of hormones that are feeding the growth of the cancer. Find out exactly what distinguishes these two therapies from one another. Watch Video Read Transcript Fast Fact: What's the difference between hormone replacement therapy and hormonal treatment?
◊	Managing Side Effects of Hormonal Treatments For Early Stage Breast Cancer
	Sometimes the side effects of hormonal treatment to battle breast cancer are difficult to deal with. However now there are several different options available that can help manage these side effects and improve one's quality of life while on breast cancer treatment. Watch Video Read Transcript Fast Fact: How are some side effects of hormone treatment for early-stage breast cancer managed?
◊	Hormonal Treatments for Breast Cancer: Do Side Effects Matter?
	For women with hormone sensitive breast cancers there are many treatment choices, each with a range of side effects. Learn what to consider when making decisions with your doctor and how it can affect your quality of life. Watch Video Read Transcript Fast Fact: Why are aromatase inhibitors important in breast cancer treatment?
◊	Understanding Hormonal Therapy for Early Stage Breast Cancer
	Studies show great promise for drugs called aromatase inhibitors in fighting the recurrence of breast cancer. Find out who may benefit, and what advantages these drugs may hold over tamoxifen. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	The Improved Outlook for Breast Cancer: The Role of Aromatase Inhibitors
	The survival rate for breast cancer has improved over the years, thanks in part to earlier and more effective treatments. With women living longer with this disease, attention is being paid to treatments that are both effective and relatively free of side effects and thus more practical as a long-term therapy. Watch Video Read Transcript Fast Fact: What is adjuvant therapy?
◊	Treatment after Tamoxifen for Breast Cancer
	Many women have reaped the benefits of the breast cancer drug tamoxifen. Now a new study has shown that other drugs may pick up where tamoxifen leaves off, keeping breast cancer from coming back. Watch Video Read Transcript Fast Fact: What are the latest thoughts about managing breast cancer?
◊	What Do I Do After Tamoxifen?
	Many women with hormone receptor positive breast cancer take tamoxifen as adjuvant therapy. But it can only be taken for a maximum of five years. Learn about the dramatic results of a recent study that reveals that the aromatase inhibitor letrozole (Femara) may offer continued protection against breast cancer recurrence after treatment with tamoxifen has ended. Watch Video Read Transcript Fast Fact: I've been on 5 years of tamoxifen what should I do now?
◊	Breast Cancer Treatment: Using Aromatase Inhibitors after Tamoxifen
	Fighting breast cancer can mean using a variety of strategies. The good news is that even after one strategy loses its power against the disease, there may be other treatments that can continue the battle. For over 30 years a drug called tamoxifen has been traditionally the first drug used in women with hormone receptor positive breast cancer. Now, doctors can offer other drugs that can successfully continue to fight the cancer. Watch Video Read Transcript Fast Fact: What is an aromatase inhibitor?
◊	Landmark Breast Cancer Trial: What Does It Mean For Breast Cancer Therapy?
	Research from a clinical trial known as ATAC shows there may be a better drug than tamoxifen to help some women fight recurrence of breast cancer. And now, a panel of leading oncologists weigh in on the study results. Do preliminary ATAC data show doctors should switch drugs? Tune in to learn what the American Society of Clinical Oncology says is the bottom-line message from the ATAC trial. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	Update on a Landmark Breast Cancer Trial: Do the Results Hold Up?
	Early results of the landmark ATAC breast cancer study comparing hormonal therapies as a treatment for certain breast cancers showed that adjuvant treatment with the aromatase inhibitor anastrozole led to a lower overall disease recurrence. Did the treatment continue to stave off new breast cancers? Listen to experts discuss the follow-up study results as reported at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium 2002. Watch Video Read Transcript Fast Fact: How are aromatase inhibitors used as adjuvant therapy for breast cancer? Fast Fact: What role do hormone receptors play in breast cancer?
◊	Hormonal Therapy for Breast Cancer: Current Issues
	Hormonal therapy is a well-established option in the treatment of breast cancer, but researchers are still learning how to use it more effectively in both early and late stages of the disease. Important new developments were a big topic at this year's 24th annual San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, and we sat down with two leading experts for an inside look. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	Hormonal Therapy for Breast Cancer: New Options
	Hormonal therapy has progressed steadily since it was introduced as treatment for breast cancer, and this year was no exception. At the 24th Annual San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, researchers presented information on the newest hormonal agents, and discussed new uses for existing drugs. Tune in to learn about the latest advances from top experts at the conference. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	Using Aromatase Inhibitors in Early Stage Breast Cancer
	Three aromatase inhibitors are being used to fight breast cancer. They are well established as hormonal agents against advanced-stage disease. Now doctors say they offer promise for some women in treating early breast cancer, too. Watch Video Read Transcript
◊	Hormonal Therapy for Breast Cancer: Assessing Benefits and Side Effects
	As with virtually any medication, the benefits of hormonal therapy for breast cancer always come with the risk of side effects. At this year's 24th Annual San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, presentations addressed the relative benefits and side effects of various hormonal therapies, and implications for treatment. Join us as we talk to two experts from the conference about this important issue.