Cancer Research UK logo.
SearchDonate
  • Search
.

About Cancer

Breast cancer

Breast cancer is cancer that starts in the breast tissue. The treatment you need depends on the type of breast cancer you have as well as your general health. Treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and radiotherapy.

If breast cancer spreads to another part of the body, it is called secondary breast cancer.

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is cancer that starts in the breast tissue. Find out about who gets breast cancer and where it starts.

Symptoms of breast cancer

Symptoms of breast cancer include a lump or thickening in the breast. Find out more about this and other possible symptoms and when you should see your GP.

Getting diagnosed with breast cancer

You usually start by seeing your GP. Or you may have had changes picked up through breast screening. Find out about being referred to a breast clinic and the tests you might have.

Survival for breast cancer

Survival is generally very good for breast cancer, particularly if you are diagnosed early. This is probably because of screening, early diagnosis and improved treatment. Find out more.

Treatment for breast cancer

Treatment for breast cancer depends on a number of factors. Find out about breast cancer treatments, where and how you have them, and how to cope with possible side effects.

Stages and grades of breast cancer

Get information about how doctors stage and grade breast cancer. In the UK, doctors use the TNM system to stage breast cancer. You may also be told about the number staging system.

Last reviewed: 18 Apr 2023

Next review due: 18 Apr 2026

Page Credits: 

This section has been written, reviewed and updated by Cancer Research UK’s Patient Information Web Team. Thanks to the expert medical professionals and people affected by cancer who have helped to review this information.

  • Professor Ramsey Cutress (Consultant Surgeon and Professor of Breast Surgery)

  • Dr Andrea Stevens (Consultant Clinical Oncologist)

  • Dr Carmel Anandadas (Consultant Clinical Oncologist)

  • Mr Debasish Debnath (Consultant Oncoplastic and Reconstructive Breast Surgeon)

The Dangoor Education logo.

Dangoor Education

About Cancer generously supported by Dangoor Education since 2010. Learn more about Dangoor Education

Patient Information Forum. Trusted Information Creator.
Plain English Campaign award.

Help and Support

An icon of a hand shake.

Questions for your doctor

What to ask your doctor about clinical trials.

An icon of two speech bubbles, indicating a conversation.

Cancer chat forum

Meet and chat to other cancer people affected by cancer.

An icon of a landline phone.

Nurse helpline

Questions about cancer? Call freephone 0808 800 40 40 from 9 to 5 - Monday to Friday. Alternatively, you can email us.