Breast cancer is one of the most common, yet devastating types of cancer to affect women. This type of cancer develops when cells in the breast divide and continue to grow abnormally. Although the growth of tumors is slow, it continues to affect millions of women across the world. However, it is also one of the most easily detectable and treatable types of cancer.

The stages of breast cancer are marked based on the growth of the tumor and its progression. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, more than 246,660 women in the country are diagnosed with breast cancer every year. Out of these women, around 40,000 die due to this condition. Understanding breast cancer and its stages is an important factor as it helps determine the treatment and prognosis. Early diagnosis of breast cancer stages and prompt treatment ensures a good survival rate.

1. Types of breast cancer
There are two types of breast cancer: in situ and invasive. The ductal carcinoma or in situ breast cancer occurs when carcinogenic cells grow inside the milk ducts. It is often considered precancerous until it invades the breast tissue. Once it invades the breast tissue, it is called invasive breast cancer. The invasive type of breast cancer develops into tumors that spread and could even lead to death. Between 50 – 75 percent of breast cancer cases begin in the milk ducts. The cells that spread from breast tissue migrate to the lymph nodes and to other organs through the lymphatic system.

2. Breast cancer stages

• Stage 0
  At this stage, the tumor is present in the breast ducts or milk glands. It has not moved from there.
• Stage I
  Starting at this stage, breast cancer stages are referred to as invasive. The tumor has moved from the milk ducts and has started to attack the surrounding tissue.
• Stage II
  At this stage, the tumor has invaded the surrounding tissue and also the lymph nodes.
• Stage III
  At this stage, cancer has not spread to organs but is hard to fight.
• Stage IV
  At this stage, the tumor has spread to other organs.

Breast cancer can affect people of any nationality or ethnicity. Moreover, it can occur at any age. However, women who have undergone radiation therapy before the age of 30 are more likely to develop breast cancer. Data compiled by the National Cancer Institute show that at the age of 30, the chances of developing breast cancer are 1 in 227. But by the age of 70, the chances are 1 in 26.

Nearly 5,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in the country every week. Given the statistics of breast cancer, it is evident that it is one of the most common types of cancer to affect women across the globe. Early diagnosis and treatment can help women recover.