Breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in women. There are several types of breast cancer, and they are classified by how the cells look under a microscope. Breast cancer is divided into two major groups: invasive breast cancer and noninvasive breast cancer. The type of cancer that you have is determined by the stage of cancer at the time of diagnosis. The stage of cancer is determined by whether or not the cancer has spread to other areas of the body.

The first step in diagnosing breast cancer is to perform a self-exam of your breasts. This is best done while standing up and wearing a loose-fitting shirt. Look for lumps, thickening, or any other abnormal growths. A doctor can also do a physical examination of your breasts, but it is important to remember that this examination is not as thorough as the self-exam.

A mammogram is an x-ray that can detect breast cancer if there is a lump, thickening, or any kind of mass in your breast. If you have a family history of breast cancer, your doctor may recommend this test. A mammogram can also be used to determine if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. It can also be used to screen for breast cancer in people who are at risk for developing the disease.

A biopsy is another way to determine if you have breast cancer. During a biopsy, a small piece of tissue from your breast is removed for testing. The tissue sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is examined under a microscope. A pathologist will make a determination about the type of cancer based on what he or she sees.

If the results of a biopsy indicate that you have breast cancer, your doctor will discuss with you various treatment options. Your doctor may suggest surgery to remove the tumor or lymph nodes near the tumor. He or she may also suggest radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy.

The treatment plan that your doctor recommends is based on your age, overall health, and the stage of cancer at the moment of diagnosis. There are also several natural treatments that you can try to treat breast cancer. These include herbs such as turmeric and green tea. You can also take vitamins and minerals to help fight cancer.