FOX29 meteorologist Sue Serio has publicly shared her experience with breast cancer, emphasizing the critical role of preventative care and early detection. This article delves into Serio's story, the importance of regular screenings, and expert insights on breast cancer recurrence and treatment.
Serio's Announcement and Diagnosis
Sue Serio, a familiar face on FOX29 since 1997, announced on "Good Day Philadelphia" that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time. She will be taking a leave of absence for approximately one month following her surgery. Serio was joined by her surgeon, Dr. Julia Tchou, the director of breast surgery at Penn Medicine's Abramson Cancer Center, to discuss the significance of routine breast cancer screening.
Serio described the discovery of "a little spot" during her annual mammogram. She was reassured that due to early detection-the spot was only about five millimeters-she is unlikely to face serious complications post-surgery. Serio previously received a similar diagnosis in 2012, also through an annual mammogram that detected a small spot. In that instance, the cancer was removed during her biopsy, and no further concerning tissue was found during a subsequent lumpectomy.
The Importance of Preventative Care
Serio emphasized the impact of her previous experience, stating, "Thanks to that experience, I have never procrastinated about my yearly screening again." Dr. Tchou echoed this sentiment, stating that Serio's actions demonstrate the effectiveness of preventive care.
The American Cancer Society recommends annual mammograms for women between the ages of 40 and 54. After age 55, women can choose to continue annual screenings or switch to every other year. Recent research indicates that younger women are being diagnosed with certain types of breast cancer at increasing rates, highlighting the need for discussions with physicians about when to begin regular screening.
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Potential Consequences of Delayed Screening
Had Serio not been proactive with her screenings, her cancer could have progressed into a more serious condition. In advanced cases, a lumpectomy may not be a viable option, and some women may require a mastectomy to remove all breast tissue. Without treatment, the cancer can spread to other parts of the body.
Dr. Tchou noted that many women fell behind on mammograms during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to an increase in breast cancer diagnoses in recent years as women resumed screening. Similar lapses in preventive care for other cancers, including some rare types, have been linked to a rise in diagnoses since the pandemic.
Recurrence and Prognosis
The risk of breast cancer recurrence is generally low for most women. However, the odds can be higher depending on the type and stage of breast cancer during the initial diagnosis, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Most recurrences occur within the first five years after a lumpectomy. While the likelihood decreases beyond that point, Serio's case underscores the continued importance of screening.
Serio expressed that her prognosis is "excellent" and anticipates returning to FOX29 in October. She hopes that by sharing her story, she can encourage others to prioritize their screenings and ensure their loved ones do the same.
Understanding Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a disease in which cells in the breast grow out of control. There are different types of breast cancer, depending on which cells in the breast turn into cancer. Breast cancer can start in different parts of the breast:
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- Ducts: Most breast cancers begin in the ducts that carry milk to the nipple (invasive ductal carcinoma).
- Lobules: Some breast cancers start in the lobules that produce milk (invasive lobular carcinoma).
- Other: Less common types of breast cancer can also occur.
Breast cancer can spread outside the breast through blood vessels and lymph vessels. When breast cancer spreads to other parts of the body, it is said to have metastasized.
Risk Factors for Breast Cancer
While the exact causes of breast cancer are not fully understood, several risk factors have been identified:
- Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age.
- Family History: Having a close relative who has had breast cancer increases the risk.
- Genetics: Certain gene mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, can significantly increase the risk.
- Personal History: Having had breast cancer before increases the risk of recurrence.
- Lifestyle Factors: Obesity, lack of physical activity, and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk.
- Hormone Therapy: Long-term use of hormone therapy for menopause can increase the risk.
- Early Menarche/Late Menopause: Starting menstruation early or experiencing late menopause can increase the risk due to longer exposure to hormones.
- Radiation Exposure: Exposure to radiation, especially during childhood or adolescence, can increase the risk.
- Dense Breast Tissue: Women with dense breast tissue have a higher risk of breast cancer, and it can also make it harder to detect cancer on mammograms.
It's important to note that having one or more risk factors does not guarantee that a person will develop breast cancer. Many people who develop breast cancer have no known risk factors other than being female and aging.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Early detection of breast cancer is crucial for successful treatment. Some possible symptoms of breast cancer include:
- A new lump or mass in the breast or underarm
- Thickening or swelling of part of the breast
- Irritation or dimpling of breast skin
- Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast
- Nipple retraction or inversion
- Nipple discharge (other than breast milk)
- Pain in any area of the breast
It's important to see a doctor if you notice any of these changes in your breast. Keep in mind that most breast lumps are not cancerous, but it's always best to get them checked out.
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Screening and Detection
Regular screening is essential for early detection of breast cancer. The most common screening methods include:
- Mammograms: An X-ray of the breast used to detect tumors or other abnormalities.
- Clinical Breast Exams: A physical exam of the breast performed by a healthcare professional.
- Breast Self-Exams: Regularly checking your own breasts for any changes or abnormalities.
- MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the breast, often used for women at high risk of breast cancer.
- Ultrasound: Breast ultrasound uses sound waves to create pictures of the breast tissue and can help determine if a lump is solid or fluid-filled.
Treatment Options
Treatment for breast cancer depends on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as individual factors such as age and overall health. Common treatment options include:
- Surgery:
- Lumpectomy: Removal of the tumor and a small amount of surrounding tissue.
- Mastectomy: Removal of the entire breast.
- Sentinel Node Biopsy: Removal of a few lymph nodes to check for cancer spread.
- Axillary Lymph Node Dissection: Removal of many lymph nodes in the armpit.
- Radiation Therapy: Using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy: Using drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body.
- Hormone Therapy: Blocking hormones that cancer cells need to grow.
- Targeted Therapy: Using drugs that target specific characteristics of cancer cells.
- Immunotherapy: Using the body's own immune system to fight cancer.
Treatment plans are often a combination of these options, tailored to the individual patient's needs.
Advances in Breast Cancer Treatment
Significant advances have been made in breast cancer treatment in recent years, leading to improved outcomes and quality of life for patients. Some of these advances include:
- Personalized Medicine: Tailoring treatment based on the individual characteristics of the cancer and the patient.
- Targeted Therapies: Developing drugs that specifically target cancer cells, reducing side effects.
- Immunotherapy: Harnessing the power of the immune system to fight cancer.
- Improved Surgical Techniques: Minimally invasive surgical techniques that reduce recovery time and improve cosmetic outcomes.
- Better Radiation Therapy: More precise radiation therapy techniques that minimize damage to healthy tissue.
Coping with a Breast Cancer Diagnosis
A breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and emotionally challenging. It's important to have a support system in place and to seek help when needed. Some tips for coping with a breast cancer diagnosis include:
- Educate Yourself: Learn as much as you can about breast cancer and your treatment options.
- Build a Support System: Connect with friends, family, support groups, or online communities.
- Talk to a Therapist: A therapist can help you process your emotions and develop coping strategies.
- Practice Self-Care: Take care of your physical and emotional well-being by eating healthy, exercising, and getting enough sleep.
- Stay Positive: Focus on the positive aspects of your life and try to maintain a hopeful outlook.
- Take It One Day at a Time: Don't try to do too much at once. Focus on getting through each day.
- Advocate for Yourself: Be an active participant in your treatment and don't be afraid to ask questions.