Ductal Carcinoma in Situ Survival Rates
The ductal carcinoma in situ survival rates are generally positive. More than 98 percent of patients who are diagnosed with stage 0 breast cancer survive at least five years after their original diagnosis. While a few patients will experience recurrences, the survival rates are still encouraging. Early detection (made possible through routine screenings) and prompt, comprehensive treatment has helped countless patients live long, high-quality lives.
How to improve your breast cancer survival rates
While some things that influence breast cancer survival rates cannot be changed (e.g., the patient’s age at the time diagnosis), there are several ways a patient can potentially improve his or her outcomes. For instance:
- Studies suggest that outcomes tend to be better for patients who undergo radiation therapy after surgery. Even though surgery by itself can be effective, radiation therapy can destroy residual cells that were not visible or accessible during an operation.
- Hormone therapies can help prevent recurrences in patients whose tumors are found to be hormone-receptive. Some of these therapies are only available through clinical trials; patients can discuss the potential risks and benefits of participation with their treatment teams.
- The outcomes for stage 0 breast cancer are generally more favorable than the outcomes for more advanced stages of breast cancer. Although ductal carcinoma in situ does not always progress into a more invasive malignancy, treating it early – before it progresses to a more advanced stage of cancer – can improve a patient’s outcome.
Not only are there several ways to improve survival outcomes, but also quality of life outcomes as well. For instance, reconstructive surgery can be performed to improve aesthetic results after a lumpectomy or mastectomy. Women who hope to breastfeed can discuss possible breast-tissue-sparing techniques with a surgeon. Additionally, supportive care services are available to help patients better manage the side effects of breast cancer treatment.
Learn more with Moffitt Cancer Center
To learn more about breast cancer survival rates or the comprehensive range of treatments that we provide, schedule a consultation with one of our expert oncologists. To request an appointment, call 1-888-663-3488 or submit a new patient registration form online.