Johnson College Receives Grant from Fastenal BK5K Johnson College received a $1,650 grant from the Fastenal BK5K Youth Fund Committee to support the College’s Girls on Fire events. Girls on Fire is a unique one-day STEM event designed for 6-9th grade students to explore career opportunities in non-traditional STEM fields. Pictured left to right: Tim Frank, Associate Director of Community Engagement, Johnson College; Marcelo DeSousa, Regional Operations Manager S-HUB, Fastenal; Whitney McDonald, S-HUB Help Desk Manager, Fastenal; Dr. Katie Pittelli, President and CEO, Johnson College; Kellyn Williams, Associate Vice President of Special Programs, Johnson College. The event is an integral part of the College’s Women in Industry Initiative and is held in conjunction with International Women’s Day. The Girls on Fire event includes tours of Johnson College’s campuses, presentations about industry experiences from women working in non-traditional STEM fields, and hands-on activities related to many of the programs offered at the College. Fastenal’s support helps Johnson College continue its mission to inspire young women to pursue rewarding careers in STEM and the trades. By connecting students with real-world experiences and industry professionals, the College aims to break down barriers and empower the next generation of women in technical fields. The BK5K, a 5-kilometer road race and walk, is held to honor Bob Kierlin, founder of Fastenal Company and lifelong supporter of youth programs. All proceeds support local youth organizations/programs that demonstrate financial need, where races are held. Learn more at https://www.bk5k.com/.
United Way of LWP Presents Brews & Badges Fundraiser Scranton Fire, Scranton Police & Penn Ambulance serve up support for the local community. Click here to find more information.
PennDOT, Safe Driving for Teens Emphasized The Shapiro Administration shared the importance of driver safety with young drivers at high schools across the Commonwealth during the annual Teen Driver Safety Forum. The forum was held at Northeastern High School in Manchester and featured a panel of representatives from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE), Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID), and local safety advocates. The panel answered questions from an in-person and online audience of students on topics ranging from safe driving tips to how to get a driver’s license. “We can all help make highways safer by working together to help new drivers gain experience and knowledge,” said PennDOT Deputy Secretary for Driver and Vehicle Services Kara Templeton. “Parents and teachers can help set a good example for teens by making safe driving choices.” Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death among teens. From 2020 to 2024, there were 78,266 vehicle crashes in Pennsylvania involving at least one driver between the ages of 16 and 19, resulting in 479 fatalities. 63 percent of those crashes involved a teen driver driving too fast for conditions (22,662 crashes), driver inexperience (7,452), driver distraction (13,372), or careless turning (13,771). “An important factor in ensuring that a young driver develops good habits behind the wheel is parental involvement, starting long before their teen gets a learner’s permit,” said Captain Adam Reed, Assistant Director, Office of Community Engagement for the Pennsylvania State Police. “We all can influence positive behaviors among teen drivers through our own actions by eliminating distractions and obeying all traffic laws, including seatbelt use.” The Shapiro Administration is working to reduce these risks by encouraging young drivers to limit the number of passengers riding with a teen driver, obey all road rules, and use common sense. Parents of teen drivers should consider the following recommendations to help their children become safe and responsible drivers: Have regular conversations with your teen about safe driving skills, even before they get their learner’s permit. Establish a parent/teen driving contract. Encourage teen drivers to avoid distractions behind the wheel, such as talking or texting on their cell phone. Limit the number of passengers teen drivers may have in their vehicle. Drivers under 18 may not carry more than one passenger under the age of 18 who is not an immediate family member unless one parent or guardian is in the vehicle. After the first six months of incident-free driving on a junior license, the limit is increased to no more than three passengers under the age of 18 who are not immediate family members unless one parent or guardian is in the vehicle. Limit dawn, dusk, and nighttime driving until the teen driver gains more experience and enforce a curfew. Remember, state law prohibits 16- and 17-year-olds with a junior license from driving between 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM. Gradually increase the amount of time and distance teen drivers are allowed to drive. Enforce observance of speed limits and other rules of the road. Ride with teen drivers occasionally after they receive their license to monitor driving skills. Set a good example with responsible driving habits. Further reinforcing safe driving habits among teen drivers, the PA Turnpike, PED, and PennDOT teamed up to launch a statewide training program last year to improve the safety of new drivers and protect roadway workers. Pennsylvania’s New Driver Work Zone Safety Program is an online training that utilizes engaging videos, infographics, knowledge checks, and powerful testimonials to educate new drivers on work zone laws, signage, and key facts, while also presenting real-life scenarios to enhance understanding. “Driving is a highly complex skill that requires years of practice to perfect,” said Acting Department of Education Secretary Dr. Carrie Rowe. “Driver education training programs are invaluable in teaching novice drivers, especially teenagers, the critical skills they need to successfully and safely navigate on the roads.” Driver education programs also offer an extended benefit to young drivers. Pennsylvania Insurance Department reminds young drivers that, in addition to shopping around, there are ways that they can proactively keep their rates lower, such as taking advantage of discount opportunities by taking driver’s ed classes and maintaining good grades. Teens who focus on making good decisions behind the wheel, such as always wearing a seatbelt, eliminating distractions, and putting phones away while driving, tend to avoid accidents and driving violations, which are key to keeping rates low. “Auto insurance is an important financial protection for students and their families. While many high school students are excited to get their driver’s license, rates for young drivers, usually paid by parents, are high, because young, inexperienced drivers have a higher likelihood of filing insurance claims,” said Pennsylvania Insurance Deputy Commissioner David Buono. “As new drivers develop good driving habits, it is also necessary that they understand the importance of remaining insured and the role of auto insurance, including the coverages they buy.” For more information on teen driver safety, visit PennDOT’s website.
Outreach Awarded $100,000 Grant by AllOne Foundation & Charities Outreach – Center for Community Resources (Outreach) is grateful and thrilled to have been named one of ten recipients of a $100,000 grant from the AllOne Foundation & Charities’ (AOF&C) Founders Impact Grant as part of AOF&C’s 10th Anniversary Celebration. From left: President & CEO of Outreach, Lori Chaffers, CEO of AllOne Foundation & Charities, John Cosgrove, Program Officer of AllOne Foundation & Charities, Nora Kern. In April, AOF&C visited Outreach’s Seventh Avenue Center to tour the facility, speak with staff, and gain a firsthand look at the work generously supported by AOF&C. During this visit, AOF&C surprised Outreach with a check. Outreach excitedly kept this information confidential until the official 10th anniversary celebration. On Friday, October 10th, at The Banks Waterfront in Pittston, PA, AOF&C kicked off its 10th Anniversary celebration by announcing the Founders Impact Grant recipients who will help meet its goal of awarding $50 million to Northeast and North Central Pennsylvania by the end of this anniversary year. Outreach received a $100,000 unrestricted grant to address the organization’s greatest needs. Outreach supports individuals and families by providing services to help them attain stability and economic self-sufficiency. Outreach offers a variety of evidence-based programs, including Parents as TeachersⓇ, SafeCareⓇ Augmented, and the Incredible YearsⓇ Parenting Program. Outreach also offers a toddler play & learn group, family reunification services, supervised visitation, prison reentry, life skills programming, GED tutoring, and workforce development. Since 2022, one program, graciously supported by AOF&C, has been Outreach’s postpartum doula services. This program connects pregnant women with an Outreach postpartum doula to provide education and support during the earliest days of their infant’s life. AllOne has been a valuable partner in bringing this critical service to families in Lackawanna County. From left: Community Outreach & Resource Development Director Liz Ratchford, Program Director II Angela Seibert, Doula Erica Baltrusaitis, Carlene Gula, Doula Giuliana Ealo, Outreach President & CEO Lori Chaffers, CEO of AllOne Foundation & Charities John Cosgrove
Valley in Motion, Connell Park Walking Club’s 100th Walk Valley In Motion will celebrate the 100th walk of the Connell Park Walking Club on October 25 at 10am at Connell Park, 800 Gibbons Street in Scranton. A chapter of the national Walk With A Doc organization since 2023, this group walks every Saturday, accompanied by a medical or fitness professional that can provide health information in a social and informal setting. It is a rain or shine event. The 100th walk will feature Lisa Rigau of Healthy Lifestyle Management. A registered nurse, nutrition counselor, and community educator, Lisa will discuss the pillars of health before the group steps off on their walk. Walkers can either traverse the wooded paths of Connell Park or a paved loop around the dog park. All fitness levels are welcome and no one walks alone. Snacks will be available as well as special presentations commemorating the 100th walk. The event is free. No need to sign up, just show up. The 2025 walk series is sponsored by Sanofi U.S. Providing access to doctors, nurses, physical therapists, mental health professionals and more, this walking program supports equitable access to health and outdoor recreation. Partner NovaCare Rehabilitation of Northeast PA attends the walks once a month to discuss physical therapy practices and preventative care. New participants are always welcome to join this walk for exercise, friendly conversation, insightful speakers, and a chance to enjoy beautiful 25-acre Connell Park in Scranton.
Friends of the Poor and Catherine McAuley Center Merge Two faith-based organizations dedicated to serving individuals and families in need have officially merged, combining their missions, resources, and staff under one unified entity: Friends of the Poor and Catherine McAuley Center (FOTP/CMC). The merger brings together the complementary strengths of both organizations, sponsored by The Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary and The Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, respectively. “Our sponsoring organizations recognized that we share deep similarities in our Catholic missions, values, and service approaches,” said Sister Mary Ellen Fuhrman, RSM, Chair of the Corporate Members. “By combining our efforts, we can significantly expand our reach to the most vulnerable members of our community.” After more than a year of collaborative operations at the Catherine McAuley Center’s administrative offices at 430 Pittston Avenue in Scranton, both organizations determined that a formal merger would best serve their shared mission. “While working side by side, we discovered we were stronger together,” said Lee Termini, Board Chair. “We were already delivering a unified effort for our funders, partners, and the people we serve— formalizing that relationship was the natural next step.” Expanded Capacity, Unified Impact Under the merged organization, programs including emergency shelter, clothing assistance, food distribution, furniture provision, and other family-sustaining services now operate under one umbrella, streamlining access for those in need. “This consolidation allows us to expand our outreach and alleviate the impacts of poverty while fostering human dignity and self-sufficiency for more of our neighbors,” said Meghan Loftus, President & CEO. Immediate Impact: Enhanced Thanksgiving Community Program The organization is already demonstrating its increased capacity through expanded partnerships for this year’s 49th Annual Thanksgiving Community Program. Through new collaborations with Meals on Wheels NEPA, Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging, and the United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike Counties, FOTP/CMC will distribute 5,500 meals—an increase of 1,500 from previous years. The week-long 49th Annual Thanksgiving Community Program includes three signature events: Interfaith Prayer Service In collaboration with the Scranton Area Ministerium Friday, November 21 | 6:00 PM Potluck, 7:00 PM Service Temple Hesed, 1 Knox Road, Scranton Thanksgiving Community Dinner for Adults and Elderly Tuesday, November 25 | 2:30 PM–5:30 PM (or until supplies last) Scranton Cultural Center, 420 N. Washington Avenue at Vine Street Drive-through or walk-up service available *Home delivery for homebound individuals coordinated through Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging, registration details forthcoming Family to Family Thanksgiving Food Basket Distribution Wednesday, November 26 | 8:00 AM–4:00 PM (or until supplies last) Scranton Cultural Center, 420 N. Washington Avenue at Vine Street *Limit of four dinners per vehicle *Social service agencies may arrange larger pickups by contacting Linda Robeson at lindarobeson@comcast.net “For 39 years, our Food Basket Program has reached thousands of families during the holidays,” said Linda Robeson, Family to Family Food Basket Program Director. “Last Thanksgiving, we served more than 4,000 local families, and with the community’s continued generosity, we hope to meet that goal again this year. From our families to yours—thank you.”
Geisinger: What Is Stage 0 Breast Cancer? When an individual is diagnosed with cancer, one of the first questions often asked concerns the stage of the disease. Stage 1 represents the earliest and most treatable form, while stage 4 is the most advanced and challenging to treat, as it indicates the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Erin Miller, DO However, there is an even earlier classification known as stage 0 breast cancer. This stage is considered non-invasive, meaning that while abnormal cells with cancer-like characteristics are present within the milk ducts of the breast tissue, they have not yet spread to surrounding healthy tissue. The encouraging news about stage 0 breast cancer is that it is highly treatable. When detected early, individuals can take proactive steps to prevent further progression. Although stage 0 breast cancer typically grows very slowly and may never advance to an invasive form, it should not be ignored. Detecting and addressing any form of cancer early — before it has the opportunity to grow or spread — is critical to achieving the best possible outcomes. DCIS vs. LCIS: Types of Stage 0 Breast Cancer The most common form of stage 0 breast cancer is ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). This condition occurs when abnormal cells are found in the tissue lining the milk ducts — the channels through which milk flows during breastfeeding. Paget’s disease, a rare condition in which abnormal cells appear in or around the nipple and areola, is also classified as a form of DCIS. Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS), once considered stage 0 breast cancer, is now categorized as a precancerous condition rather than a direct precursor to invasive breast cancer. LCIS develops when abnormal cells form within the breast lobules, the glands responsible for producing milk. Although both DCIS and LCIS contain the term carcinoma in their names, they are noninvasive, highly treatable, and not life-threatening. According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for these conditions is nearly 100%. However, if left untreated, abnormal cellular changes may continue, increasing the risk of developing invasive breast cancer in the future. For this reason, regular monitoring and appropriate treatment are typically recommended. Symptoms of DCIS and LCIS Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) typically do not present noticeable symptoms. Although some individuals may experience a small, hard lump or nipple discharge, these conditions are most often detected during routine mammograms, which can reveal abnormal cellular changes before any symptoms develop. In certain cases, LCIS may not appear on a mammogram and is instead discovered incidentally during a biopsy or diagnostic test performed for another breast abnormality. However, Paget’s disease, a rare form of DCIS that affects the nipple and areola, can produce visible and physical symptoms, such as: Burning or itching around the nipple or areola Red, crusty, or scaly skin surrounding the nipple and areola Yellow or bloody nipple discharge A flat or inverted nipple Treatment of DCIS and LCIS Because it is not possible to predict whether stage 0 breast cancer will progress and invade surrounding tissues, ongoing monitoring and/or treatment are essential to reduce the risk of developing invasive breast cancer. Several factors influence the appropriate treatment plan, including the patient’s age, family history, and the size or extent of the tumor. After a diagnosis of stage 0 breast cancer, the patient and healthcare provider work together to determine the most suitable course of action. A lumpectomy — the surgical removal of abnormal cells and surrounding tissue while preserving most of the breast — is a common treatment for ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). In many cases, this procedure is followed by radiation therapy to eliminate any remaining abnormal cells. Because stage 0 breast cancer has not spread beyond the breast, chemotherapy is rarely required. In some cases, a mastectomy, or surgical removal of the entire breast, may be recommended. This option is typically considered when the DCIS tumor is large, when multiple separate areas of DCIS are present in the same breast, or when the individual has a high risk of developing breast cancer. If the DCIS is hormone-receptor positive, physicians may prescribe hormone-blocking medications, usually taken for about five years, to help prevent abnormal cells from returning. These hormonal therapy drugs can reduce the likelihood of cancer development since DCIS often depends on hormones like estrogen or progesterone to grow. In contrast, lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) generally does not require immediate treatment. Instead, it is managed through careful monitoring or active surveillance, which includes regular mammograms and imaging tests such as breast MRI or ultrasound to detect any changes that could indicate the development of invasive cancer. Can Stage 0 Breast Cancer Be Prevented? Early detection remains the most effective defense against the development and progression of breast cancer. Mammograms and clinical breast examinations enable healthcare providers to identify and treat stage 0 breast cancer before it advances to a more serious stage. Individuals in their 20s or 30s are encouraged to receive a clinical breast exam annually from a primary care provider or gynecologist. Those aged 40 and older should discuss their personal risk factors with their healthcare provider to determine how often they should undergo screening mammograms. Understanding one’s family history is also essential, as it allows individuals to take preventive measures, such as early screenings and lifestyle adjustments to reduce risk. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can further lower the likelihood of developing breast cancer. Key recommendations include: Eating a healthy, balanced diet Exercising regularly Limiting alcohol consumption Avoiding smoking Maintaining a healthy weight Anyone who notices changes in their breasts should promptly consult a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate next steps. For those diagnosed with stage 0 breast cancer, early detection represents the best possible scenario. By working closely with their provider, patients can create a personalized treatment plan and move forward with confidence, knowing that DCIS and LCIS generally have excellent prognoses. For the latest health and wellness tips and advice, visit geisinger.org/balance. Dr. Erin Miller is a board-certified general surgeon.
Geisinger: What Causes Breast Lumps? Throughout life, a person’s body changes — and that includes the breasts. When a difference is noticed in how the breasts feel, it is not necessarily cause for alarm. Most breast lumps are harmless, and many different factors can be responsible for them. Here’s what to know. What are breast lumps? Breast lumps are masses that develop within the breast. A person may notice an actual lump or simply some swelling These lumps may feel different from the surrounding breast tissue. They are typically painless and can feel: Soft Hard Moveable Smooth Bumpy Breast lumps can appear in a variety of shapes and sizes. Causes of Breast Lumps Most breast lumps, also called masses, are non-cancerous and can result from a variety of causes, including: Fibrocystic changesHormone levels fluctuate, particularly during the menstrual cycle, which can lead to temporarily lumpy areas of breast tissue. These areas may feel tender or sore. CystsCysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop within breast tissue. They are more common in premenopausal women. FibroadenomasThese benign lumps are often found in women in their 20s and 30s. They may change in size over time and can even disappear completely. Healthcare providers may choose to monitor them for any changes. MastitisMastitis is a breast infection most common among breastfeeding women. It can sometimes lead to the formation of an abscess, a benign mass within the breast. LipomasLipomas are non-cancerous fatty tumors that form inside breast tissue. Breast injuryAn injury to the breast can result in the formation of a palpable mass. Breast cancerWhile breast cancer can also cause masses, it is a less common reason for their development. The presence of a breast lump does not necessarily indicate cancer, but it is important to speak with a healthcare provider about any breast changes that persist for more than a month. Who Is at Risk for Breast Lumps? Anyone can develop a breast mass, but certain factors may increase the likelihood. A person may be at higher risk if they: Have dense breast tissue Have a history of breast lumps Use hormone replacement therapy (HRT) Are between the ages of 18 and 35 Are pregnant or going through menopause When to See a Healthcare Provider Many breast lumps resolve on their own without treatment. However, it is important to contact a healthcare provider if a lump: Appears in the breast or armpit Does not go away after a few weeks Changes in shape, size, or color Feels hard Other reasons to seek medical advice include: Nipple inversion or discharge Any changes in the appearance or feel of the breast A healthcare provider can perform an examination or order imaging tests to get a clearer understanding of the issue. They can then offer information, recommend appropriate treatment, or refer the individual to a specialist if needed. For the latest health and wellness tips and advice, visit geisinger.org/balance. Ebonee B. Carter, DO, diagnostic radiology
Geisinger: Screening Versus Diagnostic Mammogram Early detection remains the most effective defense against breast cancer. Regular mammograms save thousands of lives each year — and have the potential to save even more. A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray examination that can identify abnormal changes in breast tissue that are not detectable through a physical breast exam. These screenings play a vital role in detecting and diagnosing both breast cancer and benign (non-cancerous) conditions that may cause lumps, skin changes, or other abnormalities. When breast cancer is detected in its earliest, localized stages, the five-year survival rate reaches 99%. Women are advised to begin annual mammograms at age 40, or earlier if risk factors are present. There are two primary types of mammograms — screening and diagnostic. Although both use the same specialized X-ray equipment, they serve distinct purposes. Understanding the difference between them empowers individuals to take proactive steps toward maintaining optimal breast health. What Is a Screening Mammogram? A screening mammogram is an annual X-ray examination performed to check for early signs of breast cancer in women who have no symptoms, such as lumps, skin dimpling, nipple discharge, or noticeable changes in breast size or shape since their last exam. The primary goal of a screening mammogram is early detection — identifying potential signs of breast cancer before any visible or physical symptoms appear. Because some types of breast cancer can grow and spread rapidly, finding cancer at an early stage, when it is small, significantly increases the likelihood of successful treatment. During a screening mammogram, a certified technologist positions the breast between two plates that gently compress the tissue to capture clear and detailed images. Typically, two images of each breast are taken from different angles, though additional images may be needed depending on breast size to ensure all tissue is included. The exam generally takes between 15 and 20 minutes. After the images are taken, a diagnostic radiologist reviews them for any signs of abnormality and sends a report to the patient’s physician. Within about a week, the patient receives a letter indicating one of two outcomes: either the mammogram results were normal, or something was detected that requires further evaluation. What Is a Diagnostic Mammogram? A diagnostic mammogram is a specialized imaging test used to investigate the cause of breast symptoms or to further examine an abnormality found during a screening mammogram. It is also performed for women who have previously been treated for breast cancer, particularly within the first five years following treatment, to monitor for any signs of recurrence or new concerns. During a diagnostic mammogram, the technologist captures images as directed by the radiologist to closely evaluate the area of concern or the specific symptoms being experienced. This examination is more detailed than a screening mammogram and typically includes additional views of a particular region of the breast. In some cases, advanced imaging techniques or a breast ultrasound may also be performed to provide a clearer, more precise look at the tissue. Because diagnostic mammograms are more comprehensive, they generally take longer to complete. However, results are typically available during the same visit. After reviewing the images, the radiologist may share one of several possible outcomes: There is no cause for concern, and the patient can resume regular annual screening mammograms. The findings are likely benign, but a follow-up mammogram in about six months is recommended to ensure no changes occur. The results suggest the possibility of breast cancer, and a biopsy is needed for a definitive diagnosis. Being called back for a diagnostic mammogram does not necessarily indicate the presence of cancer. It simply means that the healthcare team wants to take a closer look at a specific area. In most cases, the findings turn out to be non-cancerous. The Importance of Breast Cancer Screening and Early Detection The recommended age to begin annual mammogram screenings is 40. However, individuals with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors should consult their physician to determine whether earlier screening is appropriate. In addition to routine clinical breast exams, yearly mammograms remain the most effective way to take proactive control of breast health. Regular screenings can identify potential issues before symptoms appear, significantly improving the chances of early detection and successful treatment. Anyone who notices changes in their breasts—such as lumps, skin dimpling, nipple discharge, or alterations in size or shape—should contact their doctor promptly, even if a recent screening mammogram showed normal results. Detecting breast cancer at an early stage allows for more effective treatment and, in many cases, less invasive options. For ongoing health and wellness guidance, visit geisinger.org/balance. Dr. Anne Dunne is a board-certified and fellowship-trained radiologist.
Geisinger: What Are the Stages of Breast Cancer? When a person is diagnosed with breast cancer, they may wonder whether the cancer has spread and, if so, how far. A doctor can answer these questions after determining the stage of the disease. Rebecca Jordan, DO Staging refers to the process of describing how extensive the cancer is, including the size of the tumor and whether it has spread to surrounding tissues or other parts of the body. Generally, a lower stage number indicates that the cancer has spread less. Stage 0 breast cancer is the earliest, non-invasive form of the disease, while stage 4 is the most advanced and means the cancer has spread beyond the breast to other areas of the body. Staging also helps doctors determine the most effective treatment approach and predict how successful that treatment may be. It allows them to create a more personalized treatment plan, as each stage presents different therapy options. A lower stage typically indicates a more localized cancer, which can often be treated less aggressively and may have a more favorable outcome. In contrast, higher stages of breast cancer often involve more extensive disease that requires more intensive treatment strategies. How Stages of Breast Cancer Are Determined Based on the results of a physical examination, biopsy, and/or imaging tests, a doctor assigns a stage to the breast cancer diagnosis. The clinical staging system is guided by the TNM classification, which evaluates three key factors: (T): The size of the tumor (N): The presence of cancer in the lymph nodes (M): Whether the cancer has metastasized, or spread, to distant parts of the body In addition to the TNM classification, doctors may also consider other biological markers, such as the presence of estrogen, progesterone, or HER2 receptors, and how rapidly the tumor cells are likely to grow and spread. Together, these factors help define the cancer’s stage, providing a more detailed diagnosis and enabling a more targeted and personalized treatment plan. Stages of Breast Cancer Explained Breast cancer is classified into five main stages — from stage 0 to stage 4 — each with distinct characteristics and corresponding treatment options. Stage 0 Breast Cancer Stage 0 breast cancer, also known as ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), represents the earliest and non-invasive form of the disease. In this stage, abnormal cells are present within the lining of the breast milk ducts but have not spread into surrounding tissues.Typically, there are no noticeable symptoms, and the prognosis is excellent. Treatment often includes surgical removal of the affected tissue, commonly followed by radiation therapy to prevent recurrence. Stage 1 Breast Cancer Stage 1 breast cancer indicates early invasive disease, in which the tumor measures up to 2 centimeters (cm) and has not spread beyond the breast. In some cases, cancer cells may be found in a very small number of nearby lymph nodes.Possible symptoms include a breast lump, nipple discharge, or changes in breast shape. The prognosis is highly favorable, and treatment generally involves a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and, depending on the tumor’s biological characteristics, hormone therapy or chemotherapy. Stage 2 Breast Cancer Stage 2 breast cancer is defined by a larger tumor (between 2 and 5 cm) and/or cancer that has spread to nearby lymph nodes but remains confined to the breast region.Common symptoms may include a noticeable lump, swelling, or discomfort in the breast. The prognosis remains very positive, with treatment typically consisting of surgery, radiation therapy, and systemic treatments such as chemotherapy and hormone therapy, depending on the cancer subtype. Stage 3 Breast Cancer Stage 3 breast cancer is considered locally advanced. The tumor is often larger than 5 cm and/or has spread to multiple nearby lymph nodes and possibly surrounding tissues, such as the breastbone or chest wall.Symptoms may become more pronounced and include lumps in the armpit, skin or nipple changes, and breast pain. While the prognosis is still favorable with appropriate care, treatment is usually more aggressive, often combining surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies. Stage 4 Breast Cancer Stage 4 breast cancer is the most advanced stage, indicating that the disease has metastasized beyond the breast to distant organs such as the bones, liver, lungs, or brain.Symptoms can vary depending on where the cancer has spread and may include chest pain, persistent cough, bone pain, or fatigue. At this stage, the focus shifts toward controlling the disease and improving quality of life through palliative care and systemic treatments, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormonal therapy. Importance of Breast Screenings and Early Detection Early detection remains the most effective defense against breast cancer. Along with routine clinical breast examinations, annual mammograms are the most reliable method for monitoring breast health and identifying cancer in its earliest stages. The recommended age to begin yearly mammograms is 40. However, individuals with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors should consult their doctor to determine whether earlier screening is appropriate. In addition to screenings, reducing controllable risk factors can help lower the likelihood of developing breast cancer. These lifestyle choices include: Eating a healthy, balanced diet Exercising regularly Limiting alcohol consumption Avoiding smoking Maintaining a healthy weight Anyone who notices changes in their breasts or develops new symptoms should contact their doctor immediately — even if a recent mammogram showed no abnormalities. Detecting breast cancer early allows for more effective treatment and may enable the use of less invasive therapies. For the latest health and wellness tips and advice, visit geisinger.org/balance. Rebecca Jordan, DO, is a general surgeon specializing in breast surgery.
