Breast Cancer

About Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the abnormal growth of cells in the breast and can occur in men and women. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia affecting 1 in every 7 women during their lifetime, it is less common in men (affecting 1 in 700).

Some people are diagnosed with breast cancer through routine mammograms as part of the national breast cancer screening program, while others may present to their doctor with new symptoms of concern such as a lump, breast skin or nipple changes.

A suspected diagnosis of breast cancer will be confirmed using several tests including scans (mammograms), an ultrasound, or in some cases magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). 

Visit the Cancer Council website to learn more about breast cancer

Our Service

The Alfred Breast Service includes a team of experienced:

• Breast surgeons
• Medical oncologists
• Radiation oncologists
• Plastic surgeons 
• Breast cancer nurses
• Allied health specialists

We work together in a multi-disciplinary team, and in collaboration with each patient, to develop a management and follow-up plan to ensure the best outcomes for physical and psychological wellbeing.

Treatment pathways vary depending on the subtype of breast cancer and whether the cancer cells have spread beyond the breast. Types of treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy and chemotherapy.

For more information

• Cancer Council Victoria – cancer information, resources and support services
• Breast Cancer Network Australia – breast cancer information, resources and support services
• Counterpart – support for women with breast cancer
• Beyond Blue – support for anxiety and depression
• Think Pink – support for people with breast cancer
• WeCan – cancer supportive care services