Signs & Symptoms
What is the most common initial sign of breast cancer?
A lump/mast in the breast
What gender has the highest risk of developing breast cancer?
Female
At what age should average-risk women start annual mammograms?
Age 40 (depending on guidelines)
What is the main surgical treatment for early-stage breast cancer?
Lumpectomy or mastectomy
How often should women perform self-breast exams?
Monthly
Name one skin change that could indicate breast cancer.
Redness, scaling, puckering
At what age does the risk of breast cancer typically increase significantly
Over age 50
What test is used to confirm a diagnosis after an abnormal mammogram?
Biopsy
Name one type of breast-conserving surgery.
Lumpectomy
What is one key lifestyle recommendation to lower risk?
Maintain healthy weight, limit alcohol, exercise regularly
What type of nipple discharge may be a warning sign?
Bloody or clear discharge
True or False: Family history of breast cancer increases your risk.
True
What is the purpose of a breast ultrasound?
To differentiate cystic vs. solid masses
What is the purpose of radiation therapy?
Destroy remaining cancer cells after surgery
Name one emotional support resource for patients.
Support groups, counseling, peer mentoring
What term describes breast dimpling that looks like an orange peel?
Peau d’orange
Identify two lifestyle-related risk factors for breast cancer.
Alcohol use, obesity, lack of exercise, high-fat diet
What does a biopsy determine about a tumor?
Whether the tumor is benign or malignant
Which hormone therapy blocks estrogen receptors?
Tamoxifen
After a mastectomy, what complication should nurses monitor for in the affected arm?
Lymphedema
Which aggressive breast cancer presents with redness, swelling, and peau d’orange?
Inflammatory breast cancer
What two genetic mutations most strongly increase breast cancer risk?
BRCA1 and BRCA2
Name one imaging test used to detect breast cancer spread.
MRI, CT scan, or PET scan
What type of treatment targets HER2-positive breast cancers?
Trastuzumab (Herceptin)
Why is lymphedema prevention education important post-surgery?
Prevents swelling and infection in the affected limb