Breast Cancer Care
When you have cancer, you need a team of support. A diagnosis of breast cancer can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone. We are here for you every step of the way through your journey - from diagnosis to treatment and on to survivorship.
Cancer treatments have progressed significantly in recent years and survivor rates have increased as a result.
Coordinated Team Approach
Are you at higher risk for breast cancer?
Munson Healthcare’s High-Risk Breast Cancer Clinic is designed to identify your risk of developing breast cancer and help your care team create the best plan for your screening and care throughout your lifetime.
We provide a coordinated team approach that includes the latest treatments in surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. And we include each patient as part of our team as an active partner in every step of care. It is our goal for patients to be involved in the decisions related to care and to always know the next step.
We want to help you feel healthy again. In addition to the critical medical treatments that you will receive, we offer health and wellness services that treat the whole body and mind to promote physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual healing.
Learn more about our breast cancer services and what you can expect during your treatment journey. If you have questions or concerns, please contact us at 231-392-8400 or CancerServices@mhc.net.
What is Breast Cancer?
The breast is made of milk-producing glands called lobules and ducts that carry milk from the lobules to the nipple. Breast tissue also contains fat and connective tissue, lymph nodes, and blood vessels.
Cancer begins when healthy cells in the breast change and grow uncontrollably, forming a mass or sheet of cells called a tumor.
There are two types of tumors:
- Cancerous - The tumor is malignant, meaning it can grow and spread to other parts of the body.
- Benign - The tumor can grow but will not spread.
The most common type of breast cancer begins in the ducts and is called ductal carcinoma. Breast cancer also can begin in other tissues in the breast. Breast cancer that has spread from where it began in the ducts or lobules to surrounding tissue is called invasive breast cancer.
In the United States, breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women after skin cancer. Each year, there are about 230,000 new cases in women.
Men also can have breast cancer. About 2,300 new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in men each year.
For More Information
You can find trusted information about breast cancer treatment at these websites:
What to Expect
Cancer treatment begins with a diagnosis. Tests may include a mammogram, diagnostic imaging, and biopsy to help your care team determine your type of cancer and develop an individualized treatment plan.
We understand this phase can be very difficult as you are waiting for answers. Our goal at Munson Healthcare is to move you through the diagnostic process as quickly as possible in order to minimize the emotional strain.
Your Treatment Plan
We offer a coordinated approach to care that varies based on your specific needs.
When a breast cancer is found, our breast center nurses and nurse navigator will help set up a consultation for you with a surgeon.
After meeting with you, your surgeon will present your case for discussion at our team’s weekly Breast Cancer Conference. At this meeting, our team will discuss your individualized care plan including treatment, referrals, and follow-up meetings. Our Breast Cancer Conference team includes:
- Medical oncologist
- Radiation oncologist
- Pathologist
- General surgeon
- Plastic surgeon
- Radiologist
- Cancer genetics nurse practitioner
- Research nurse
- Breast health nurse coordinator
- Oncology financial navigator
After this meeting, you will meet with your surgeon to discuss surgical options. Typically, you also will meet with a medical oncologist to discuss hormonal therapy, targeted therapy, and/or chemotherapy. You also may be referred to a radiation oncologist to discuss radiation therapy options.
Treatment for your cancer will depend upon the type, location, and stage of the cancer. Other factors that impact treatment decisions include your age and other health conditions.
Our physicians provide the latest in treatments. When more complex treatments are necessary, we work closely with specialists across the state and nation.
Throughout the process, our breast program coordinator and nurse navigator will be in touch with you to answer your questions and be certain you are informed about the next steps in your care.
The Cowell Family Cancer Center Support Team
Genetics Consultation
Breast cancer can be associated with certain hereditary gene changes that may increase the risk of developing cancer. These gene changes can be passed on to family members.
Depending on your family history and personal risk factors, you may be referred to our cancer genetics clinic for a consultation. Cancer genetics counseling also is available at Charlevoix Hospital.
During this meeting, you will talk to our nurse practitioner who is certified in cancer genetics to discuss your family’s risk and genetic testing options available. If certain criteria are met, testing may be recommended. It is offered through our clinic.
Support and Guidance
Our care coordination team is here to support you and includes a nurse and nurse practitioner who will ensure that your next steps are planned and communicated.
Our compassionate team also includes a dietitian, a social worker, palliative/supportive care providers, and financial navigators to ensure that your individual needs are addressed.
For more information regarding Cowell Family Cancer Center services or to be transferred to a regional network facility, call 231-392-8400 and speak with one of our resource specialists.
Availability of support services varies according to the specific regional cancer network location.