Beverley Callard, 69, has been referred to a stomach specialist for further tests as she continues her battle with breast cancer. The actress, who was diagnosed earlier this year, has been open about her treatment journey.
Breast cancer is a significant global health concern. In the UK, over 55,000 new cases are diagnosed annually, with the disease leading to approximately 11,500 deaths each year. In the United States, it affects around 266,000 individuals annually and results in 40,000 fatalities.
The cancer originates from abnormal cells developing in the ducts or lobules of the breast. When these cells spread into surrounding tissue, it is termed 'invasive' breast cancer. Some individuals are diagnosed with 'carcinoma in situ,' where the cancer cells remain confined to the duct or lobule. While most cases occur in women over 50, younger women can also be affected, and in rare instances, men can develop breast cancer.
Diagnosis typically begins with a physical examination of the breasts and armpits by a doctor. Further assessments may include mammograms, which use X-rays to detect potential tumors, and biopsies, where a tissue sample is examined under a microscope for abnormal cells. If breast cancer is confirmed, additional tests like blood work, ultrasounds, or chest X-rays may be required to determine if the cancer has spread.
Treatment options are varied and often used in combination. They can include surgery to remove the tumor or the affected breast, radiotherapy using high-energy beams to kill cancer cells, chemotherapy with anti-cancer drugs, and hormone treatments that target hormones like estrogen, which can fuel certain breast cancers. The success of treatment is generally higher when the cancer is diagnosed and treated at an early stage, before it has spread.