A breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Cancer Specialists of North Florida, our experienced oncology team provides personalized breast cancer treatment in Jacksonville, FL, offering compassionate care close to home.
Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer Treatment in Jacksonville, FL
Breast cancer treatment should never feel one-size-fits-all. For more than 30 years, Cancer Specialists of North Florida has provided expert, patient-centered cancer care throughout Jacksonville, FL and the surrounding areas.
Signs & Symptoms
Breast cancer often shows no symptoms in its earliest stages, which is why routine screening is so important. Common signs and symptoms of breast cancer include:
- A new lump or mass in or near the breast
- An unexplained change in the size or shape of the breast
- Dimpling
- Bumps in armpits
- Red or swollen skin on the breast
- Breast or nipple pain
- Swollen lymph nodes under the arm
These symptoms don’t always indicate breast cancer, but they should never be ignored. If you notice any changes in your breasts, schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
Risk Factors
While anyone can develop breast cancer, certain factors may increase your risk. Having one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean you’ll develop breast cancer, and many people who have been diagnosed have no known risk factors.
Some of the most common risk factors for breast cancer include:
- Being female
- Age
- Family history
- Early menstruation
- Dense breast tissue
- Women who have no full-term pregnancies or their first pregnancy after 30 are more at risk
- Previous breast cancer diagnosis
- Obesity
- Heavy alcohol use
Understanding your personal risk can help you and your healthcare provider determine the most appropriate screening schedule.
Screening & Diagnosis
Early detection offers the best chance at effective treatment. The American Cancer Society provides the following screening guidelines for women who are at average risk for breast cancer:
- Women between 40 and 44 have the option to start screening with a mammogram every year.
- Women 45 to 54 should get mammograms every year.
- Women 55 and older can switch to a mammogram every other year, or they can choose to continue yearly mammograms.
If an abnormality is found, additional imaging or a biopsy may be recommended. Once breast cancer is diagnosed, our oncology team works together to develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific diagnosis.
Types & Stages
Breast cancer is not a single disease. There are several different types of breast cancer, and understanding the specific type and stage helps guide treatment decisions.
Common types of breast cancer include:
- Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC)
- Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC)
- Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)
- Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC)
- Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC)
- Metastatic breast cancer (MBC)
After someone is diagnosed with breast cancer, our care team will determine if it has spread and if so, how far. This helps determine how serious the cancer is and how to treat it best. There are five stages of breast cancer, ranging from stage 0 through IV. Depending on the stage, your physicians will develop a treatment plan that’s right for you.
Breast Cancer Treatment Options
At Cancer Specialists of North Florida, we take a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer treatment. We bring together a team of breast cancer experts to deliver personalized, community-based treatment with a focus on accessibility, faster answers, and meaningful patient relationships.
Depending on your diagnosis, your treatment plan may include:
- Chemotherapy
- Hormone therapy
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Surgery
- Clinical trials
Beyond medical treatment, we also provide access to supportive services to aid in your recovery. From clinical trials and nutrition support to counseling services and financial assistance, our care extends beyond medicine.
Why Choose Cancer Specialists of North Florida For Breast Cancer Treatment
Every breast cancer diagnosis is unique, which is why your treatment should be too. As Northeast Florida’s leading, physician-owned oncology practice, we’ve helped patients with breast cancer treatment for more than 30 years. Our multidisciplinary team works together to develop personalized treatment plans, provide access to advanced therapies, and support you through every stage of your journey. We’re committed to making expert cancer care more accessible so that you can focus on your health and recovery.
Find The Nearest Location for Breast Cancer Treatment
Receiving cancer treatment close to home means spending less time traveling and more time focused on your health and recovery. Cancer Specialists of North Florida has 11 convenient locations, making it easier to access expert breast cancer treatment in Jacksonville, FL, and the surrounding areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is at risk for breast cancer?
Anyone can develop breast cancer, although it is far more common in women. Age, family history, inherited genetic mutations, lifestyle factors, and certain reproductive factors can all influence your risk.
Can hormone replacement therapy increase my risk of breast cancer?
Yes. While an effective treatment for menopausal symptoms, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can increase the risk of breast cancer in people with specific risk factors. HRT contains estrogen and progesterone, which are linked to several types of cancer, including breast cancer.
What is the best way to detect breast cancer?
Early detection of breast cancer leads to improved outcomes. There are a variety of screening techniques, including MRIs and ultrasounds, but a mammogram is the best way to detect breast cancer. A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast tissue used to look for any abnormalities.
What are the side effects of breast cancer treatment?
Side effects vary depending on the type of treatment you receive. Common side effects may include:
- Hair loss
- Fatigue
- Mouth sores
- Loss of appetite
- Increased risk of infection
- Lymphedema
- Bone health problems
- “Chemo brain” or difficulty with memory and concentration
- Menopausal symptoms
Your care team will work closely with you to manage side effects throughout treatment.
How do I decide which breast cancer treatment option is best for me?
There is no one-size-fits-all for breast cancer treatment. Determining the treatment plan that is best for you is highly personal and can be based on several factors, including family history, genetics, and your individual preferences. Your oncology team will explain your options and recommend a personalized treatment plan designed to achieve the best possible outcome.
