Breast Cancer

A comprehensive, down-to-earth guide for anyone diagnosed with breast cancer.

book, whose goal is to comprehensively review in ten During the past 30 years we have witnessed the emer­ chapters the fundamental knowledge on breast can­ gence of new disciplines whose contribution to the understanding of the biology of breast cancer have cer. The opening chapter links epidemiology, influ­ been enormous. Advances in the field of steroid hor­ ence of geographic and environmental exposures on mone nuclear receptors, which control the expression cancer incidence to the development of the organ and of genetic programs involved in cellular processes its role in cancer initiation. Central to this approach that are essential for normal and aberrant cell is the endocrine control of breast development, the growth, have been major contributors to the therapy relationship of cell proliferation with the presence of and prevention of hormone-dependent cancers.

In Canada, survival from breast cancer has steadily increased since 1989, and breast cancer mortality has decreased by 48%. While 82% of women with breast cancer are diagnosed at stage 1 or 2, there are still 18% who present at a late stage and 25% who develop metastatic disease. Improved survival has been achieved through early diagnosis of breast cancer with screening, allowing for more effective and targeted treatments. This reprint summarizes the latest evidence on the early detection of breast cancer and highlights areas where this may be improved.

This volume provides a comprehensive review of the molecular mechanisms involved in precancerous lesions and benign and malignant breast tumors. Given the complex molecular pathways in breast cancer biology, the book simplifies these complex mechanisms and highlights the practical issues important for daily practice. Sections are structured to review breast carcinogenesis and the role of familial predisposition and stem cells in initiation and progression of breast cancer.

This book focuses on innovative treatment options for breast cancer, including surgery, radiotherapy, systemic therapy and of course immunotherapy that is changing outcomes in some aggressive breast cancer histotypes. Subsequent chapters also address the ongoing emerging research in the screening, diagnostics, and management of all subtypes of breast cancers. All current landscapes and future perspectives in each molecular subtype: luminal, HER2-positive, and triple-negative breast cancers are discussed within the different chapters.

With humor and empathy, Dana Brantley-Sieders explores the science and realities of breast cancer for the love of your boobs and your life.