Breast Cancer

Breast cancer starts when genes responsible for normal and orderly cell growth mutate and begin rampant reproduction. This uncontrolled growth forms a breast tumor which may eventually be felt and which can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body. 

Only 5 to 10 percent of breast cancers are caused by mutated genes that are inherited. The vast majority of breast cancers are caused by the “wear and tear” of the normal aging process on the DNA in breast cell genes. 

Benign vs. Malignant Breast Cancers 

Not all breast tumors are dangerous. Some are benign; they grow slowly, don’t spread outside the breast and are not life threatening. Malignant tumors are cancerous; they grow into surrounding tissue and invade the underarm lymph nodes that give them paths to spread outside the breast to other parts of the body. 

Stages of Breast Cancer 

With information from physical exams, medical imaging, biopsies and blood tests, breast cancers can be divided into five stages of development based on the size, nature and spread of the cancerous cells. 

Breast cancers are ranked on a scale of 0 through IV, with 0 describing noninvasive cancers and IV describing cancers that have spread. 

The stages are also based on clinical characteristics including the tumor’s size and whether it has grown into nearby tissue (T); whether it has spread to the lymph nodes (N); or whether it has metastasized beyond the breast (M). In 2018, the T, N, M system was updated with additional cancer characteristics. 

Men and Women Get Breast Cancer 

While breast cancer affects one out of eight women, it also affects about one in 833 men. It is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women and is women’s second leading cause of cancer death. 

However, the good news is that: 

Where can I get screened? 

Comprehensive Breast Center and Diagnostic Imaging Center

At the Norma E. & Miles M. Zisson Comprehensive Breast Center of the Palm Beaches at Good Samaritan Medical Center, we are focused on providing comprehensive breast care with an emphasis on prevention, early detection and personalized treatment. 

We bring together a multi-disciplinary team of cancer specialists and allied health professionals, advanced technology and cancer resources so that your patients and their families may receive comprehensive diagnosis, treatment and support services. 

West Boca's Diagnostic Imaging Center offers a wide range of tests and radiological procedures in an atmosphere where patient comfort is paramount. The center is equipped with advanced technology and a staff of medical specialists, technologists and support staff. 

Special Designations 

• The Cancer Center of Palm Beach at Good Samaritan Medical Center is accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons for over 30 years
• The Norma E. & Miles M. Zisson Comprehensive Breast Center of the Palm Beaches at Good Samaritan Medical Center is designated by the American College of Surgeons as a National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) 
• Designated Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology (ACR) at Good Samaritan Medical Center and West Boca Medical Center