DCIS: Is it cancer, doctor?
Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is an abnormal proliferation of cells confined within the mammary ducts. Approximately 1,600 women are diagnosed with DCIS in Australia each year. Women diagnosed with DCIS are at increased risk of being diagnosed with subsequent invasive breast cancer. A study previously conducted by National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre (NBOCC)* quantified this risk, finding that women diagnosed with DCIS were about four times more likely to develop invasive breast cancer compared with women of similar age in Australia. The aim of treating DCIS is to reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer.
A new diagnosis of ductal carcinoma in situ may be confusing for both the woman and her family. This program provides information to assist in clarifying this diagnosis, including:
• how DCIS is diagnosed
• the implications and impact for the woman diagnosed with DCIS
• treatment options and follow-up care for a woman diagnosed with DCIS.
This program also highlights a new NBOCC resource entitled Understanding ductal carcinoma in situ and deciding about treatment, developed for health professionals to assist women who have been diagnosed with DCIS in considering their treatment options.
This program is introduced by Dr Helen Zorbas, CEO of Cancer Australia and former CEO of NBOCC*.
* On 30 June 2011, National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre (NBOCC) amalgamated with Cancer Australia to form a single national agency, Cancer Australia, to provide leadership in cancer control and improve outcomes for Australians affected by cancer.
Produced by the Rural Health Education Foundation
http://www.rhef.com.au/
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