Breast Cancer Center in Willamette Valley
Breast Cancer Treatment Centers in Albany, Eugene, Corvallis, Florence, Lincoln City, and Newport
Whether you've just been diagnosed with breast cancer or if you're searching for a second opinion, clinical trial, or additional information, our cancer specialists at Willamette Valley Cancer Institute are ready to help you get through the next steps.
Are You Newly Diagnosed with Breast Cancer?
Begin your journey to becoming a breast cancer survivor by learning about what to do first. Plus, get helpful tips for newly diagnosed breast cancer patients as you prepare for treatment.
Is My Breast Cancer Hereditary?
Cancer occurs when there is an uncontrolled division of abnormal cells. In this case, within the breast tissue. Scientists believe that cancer is caused by a combination of known and unknown factors. The National Cancer Institute and studies identify lifestyle factors that can increase the risk of breast cancer, including diet, alcohol, physical activity, obesity, and environmental factors.
The strongest risk factor in developing breast cancer, however, is age. As women get older, their chances of developing breast cancer increase. This means that most of the cases of breast cancer each year are not related to a genetic mutation.
Only 5-10% of all breast cancers are caused by a gene mutation in the BRCA1 gene or the BRCA2 gene. Changes in other genes are also associated with breast cancer, but they are much less common.
Signs & Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Early detection is vital in the treatment of breast cancer. You can be proactive at detecting the disease in its earliest stages when treatment is more likely to offer a better outcome–and it starts with increasing your awareness regarding the signs and symptoms of breast cancer.
Diagnosing Breast Cancer
When breast cancer is detected in the early stages, treatment is more likely to offer a better outcome. While breast cancer is sometimes found after symptoms appear, many women don't experience symptoms at all making regular screenings very important.
Living as a Breast Cancer Survivor
Completing treatments may come with a combination of feelings and questions about becoming a breast cancer survivor and what happens next. You’ll still need additional medical and emotional support even once your treatment plans are finished.
It's common to have additional questions about breast cancer - whether is be about your risks of developing breast cancer or about the side effects of certain treatments. Our cancer care team has put together a few answers to questions that are often asked about breast cancer.
What are the side effects of treatment?
The side effects vary depending on the individual, the drug, and drug doses. A few common side effects of chemotherapy are nausea, vomiting, hair loss...
How do I decide which treatment option is best for me?
Willamette Valley Cancer Institute and Research Center (WVCI) has a team of experts ready to talk to you all about your options. Although there are a few treatment options available...
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