AST CANCER at AdventHealth
by Advent Health
This type is called ductal carcinoma . Cancer of the lobules , known as lobular carcinoma , is the second most common type .”
While less common , cancer can also develop in other parts of the breast , such as the fatty or connective tissues .
Risk Factors for Breast Cancer
While certain risk factors like gender and age are uncontrollable , others are linked to lifestyle and genetics .
Dr . Marshall notes , “ The two largest risk factors for breast cancer are being female and aging . However , some people may also be genetically predisposed to breast cancer .”
She emphasizes the importance of understanding your family history , particularly regarding relatives with breast or ovarian cancer , as well as cancers of the pancreas , prostate , or skin ( especially melanoma ).
Lifestyle factors also play a role . According to Dr . Marshall , “ Tobacco use , alcohol consumption , hormone replacement therapy , and excess weight gain can all increase the risk of breast cancer .”
Clearing Up Misconceptions
Breast cancer is surrounded by myths that can create unnecessary fear or confusion .
Dr . Marshall highlights a common concern : “ Many of my patients worry about the radiation exposure from mammograms . However , there is no data to show an increased risk of breast cancer from annual mammograms . The benefits of early detection have been proven time and time again .”
She also addresses other misconceptions , such as the idea that a needle biopsy can spread cancer . “ While some cancers can spread due to surgical intervention , like gallbladder cancer , this is not the case with breast cancer ,” she says .
Additionally , Dr . Marshall reassures patients that breast pain is rarely a sign of cancer . “ Breast pain tends to be multifactorial and is generally associated with benign conditions ,” she explains .
Finally , she clarifies that a lack of family history does not mean you are immune to breast cancer . “ Most breast cancer cases are not linked to hereditary or genetic abnormalities . The average risk for breast cancer is about 1 in 8 women ,” she says .
Treatment Options for Breast Cancer
Treatment plans for breast cancer depend on its type and stage , but surgery is often a key component , especially in early-stage cases .
“ Surgical options typically come down to two types of operations ,” says Dr . Marshall . “ Breast-conserving surgery , often called a lumpectomy , and mastectomy , which involves removing most of the breast tissue .” Dr . Marshall explains that about two-thirds of patients are good candidates for breast-conserving surgery , while one-third may require a mastectomy . “ In most cases , we also perform a lymph node biopsy to check if the cancer has spread ,” she adds .
In addition to surgery , other treatments such as hormonal therapy , radiation therapy , chemotherapy , and immunotherapy may be recommended to ensure comprehensive care .
Your Partner in Breast Cancer Care
At AdventHealth , we are committed to providing you with whole-person care — supporting your physical , emotional , and spiritual health throughout your breast cancer journey . With expert surgeons like Dr . Jessica Marshall and a compassionate care team , we ’ re here to guide you from diagnosis to recovery .
To schedule an appointment with Dr . Marshall , visit AHPCParkwayMOB . com or call 386-586-1840 . With the right care and support , you can face this diagnosis with strength and hope .
Dr . Jessica Marshall
FEBRUARY / MARCH 2025 | 21 |