Breast cancer videos

Overview

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the breasts. It can affect anyone, though it is more common in women.

Types

Breast cancer is generally divided into two main categories: non-invasive, where the cancer cells are contained within the ducts or lobules and haven’t spread, and invasive, where the cancer has spread beyond the original site into surrounding breast tissue.

Playlist: Breast cancer types, detection and risks

6 videos

Autoplay videos

Are there different types of breast cancer?

Dr Sarah Jarvis MBE, FRCGP

01:04

Are there different types of breast cancer?

Dr. Sarah Jarvis MBE, FRCGP

00:50

How can breast cancer be detected?

Dr. Sarah Jarvis MBE, FRCGP

00:43

What is the screening test for breast cancer?

Dr. Sarah Jarvis MBE, FRCGP

01:28

How do I check for breast cancer myself?

Dr. Sarah Jarvis MBE, FRCGP

00:50

Is breast cancer genetic?

Dr. Sarah Jarvis MBE, FRCGP

00:41

What are the risk factors for breast cancer?

Dr. Sarah Jarvis MBE, FRCGP

Symptoms

Common signs of breast cancer include a new lump in the breast or underarm, changes in breast size or shape, redness or flaky skin on the breast or nipple, nipple changes like inversion or discharge, and any unusual pain that doesn’t go away.

Stages

There are four main stages of breast cancer, from stage 1, where the cancer is small and just starting to grow, all the way to stage 4, which means the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Treatment

Breast cancer treatment usually depends on the type and stage, but it often includes a combination of surgery to remove the tumour, radiotherapy to target any remaining cancer cells, and chemotherapy to tackle cancer throughout the body.

Prognosis

Breast cancer survival rates vary depending on the stage of the cancer at diagnosis and your age. Survival rates are higher when the cancer is detected and treated in its early stages.