Breast Cancer

Breast cancer occurs when breast cells mutate and then multiply in an uncontrolled way. The abnormal cells cause a mass or tumor to develop in the tissue. It is the leading form of cancer in American women. Men can also get it, but it’s more common in women. Early detection and personalized treatment like the care Dr. Morrell provides at CenterPoint Radiation Oncology increases your likelihood of overcoming this type of cancer.

Symptoms vary from person to person. Many people who have it don’t experience symptoms at all. That’s why annual breast cancer screening is so crucial.

Warning signs of breast cancer may include:

• A new lump in the breast or underarm area
• Thickening or swelling
• Pain
• Changes to the skin on the breast, like dimpling
• Changes in the breast size or shape
• Nipple inversion or pain
• Nipple discharge other than milk

If you have any of these signs or symptoms, schedule an appointment with your doctor right away.

There are many treatment options. Surgery is the most common approach. However, many women receive additional treatments after surgery, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or hormone therapy.

Radiation therapy kills cancer cells with high-power energy beams, such as photons or protons. You may receive external beam radiation therapy in a large machine called a linear accelerator, or Dr. Morrell may place radioactive material inside your body (brachytherapy). She uses imaging technology to guide the radiation therapy to the precise location that needs to be treated.

At CenterPoint Radiation Oncology, Dr. Morrell applies her deep research experience in breast cancer to create a personalized radiation therapy plan for your specific needs. She determines the best approach to treatment based on the type of cancer you have and the location of your tumor.

For the highest-quality care in cancer treatment in Los Angeles, please call CenterPoint Radiation Oncology, or book an appointment online today.