Breast Cancer |
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Breast Care Patient's Guide
A diagnosis of breast cancer is often paired with difficult sensations, emotions and responses including fear, shock, numbness and disbelief as well as anger, betrayal, grief and sadness. In the midst of this emotional trauma, information must be gathered, often a new language of medical terms learned, treatment choices must be understood and difficult decisions must be made. Women often report being overwhelmed or at least intensely challenged to make sense of the medical maze.
Information can help. Emotional support can help. It is important during the stressful time of a new diagnosis to give some thought to how you learn and how you can most easily receive emotional support. Who in your life can be present to help to gather information, hear medical conversations? If you are doing the data gathering yourself, what support do you need from breast cancer clinicians?
This section is designed to provide you with general information about breast cancer and its treatment.
We see the information here as a starting point to help you begin to understand the range of terminology, procedures and treatments associated with breast care and breast cancer. We hope that this information will help you, as a patient, participate with your doctor in planning the best possible treatment. Or, if you are a friend or family member, we hope that this information will enable you to better support someone close to you who has been diagnosed with breast cancer.
This section is intended as a source of information and educational resource to assist you in the dialogue with your doctor. This information does not replace the expertise and clinical judgment of your doctor. Each patient's situation must be evaluated individually by a medical team. It is important to discuss all information regarding your breast health and treatment options with your doctor.
 Basic Facts About Breast Health
Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment Options
Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer
Breast Reconstruction
Follow-Up Care for Breast Cancer Patients
Self Care and Recovery
Other Topics
Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated May 8, 2007
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or health care provider. We encourage you to discuss with your doctor any questions or concerns you may have.
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