There are several types of breast cancer. Most breast cancers are invasive ductal carcinomas, which originate in the milk ducts of the breast before spreading to other parts of the breast. Other types include ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), which originates in milk ducts but has not yet spread; and invasive lobular carcinoma, which begins in milk-producing glands. Symptoms of breast cancer can include a lump, swelling of all or part of a breast, skin irritation or dimpling, breast or nipple pain, nipple retraction, redness, and nipple discharge (other than breast milk). Breast cancer is often treated with a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and/or chemotherapy. The survival rate for breast cancer can vary depending on stage of diagnosis, type of treatment, and other factors.

For more information on breast cancer, read the American Cancer Society's Detailed Guide.

If you have been affected by breast cancer, please be sure to take some time to read others' experiences, share your own experiences, and ask or answer questions. Don't forget to view our Beginner's Guide to Cancer.