Breast Cancer Awareness
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
For nearly 40 years, October has been recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We devote time and space to raise awareness about breast cancer, advocate for women’s health, celebrate the progression of medical research and encourage breast cancer screenings. Early detection saves lives!
No matter your condition, our team can treat you with the latest technologies and the highest standards of clinical care.
We also understand that being diagnosed with breast cancer can feel overwhelming and scary.
Recognizing the fear and uncertainty each patient might feel, the experts at WakeMed provide thoughtful, compassionate care to each patient along the way. From the first mammogram through diagnosis, treatment and recovery, we are here to walk alongside of you every step of the way.
A Multidisciplinary Approach to Care:
At WakeMed, the most important piece of every puzzle is you – the patient. Along with your family, our goal is to keep you informed and help guide you in developing the best treatment option for you. Patients at WakeMed can rely on our multidisciplinary providers in Breast Surgery, Hematology & Medical Oncology, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Radiology and Rehabilitation to offer comprehensive breast treatment options.
WakeMed Imaging Services, in partnership with Raleigh Radiology, is dedicated to providing the finest quality imaging services, using the most advanced technology and a skillful, compassionate approach to care. 3D breast imaging with tomosynthesis is offered at all of our locations and we have dedicated, board-certified radiologists with specialized training in breast imaging to ensure the highest degree of accuracy in diagnosing our patients.
The WakeMed Breast Surgery practice is dedicated to the management of breast health issues. Led by board-certified surgeon Dr. Lori Lilley, who has years of expertise in breast health, the team uses their advanced skills and experience to help each patient decide what is best for them.
WakeMed Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery offers post-surgical reconstructive care for patients including breast lifts, breast reductions, general reconstruction for oncologic defects and breast reconstruction.
“Almost all women are candidates for breast reconstruction, and they may not know that.”
Watch as Dr. C. Scott Hultman, plastic and reconstructive surgeon, talks more about reconstruction options following a breast cancer diagnosis.
WakeMed Cancer Care – Hematology & Medical Oncology is a committed community of caregivers dedicated to rendering the most compassionate and comprehensive cancer care. No matter your condition or stage, our multidisciplinary team treats your breast cancer with the latest technologies and the highest standard of clinical care to develop a treatment plan to address your unique needs. Alongside your medical oncologist, our nurse navigators, genetic counselors and advanced practice providers will support you throughout your cancer journey at WakeMed.
Read on as WakeMed patient Charlene Solis’ shares her grade 3 triple-negative breast cancer story.
While genes are not the only factor when it comes to your chances of developing breast cancer, detecting a genetic risk may be beneficial for some people in terms of prevention, early detection and timely treatment. In addition to the often talked about BRCA gene mutations, there are a significant number of other inherited gene mutations that increase the risk of developing breast cancer. Knowing whether a cancer is due to a hereditary gene mutation is important to optimizing your cancer care, preventing future cancers and determining what risk for cancer your family members may have.
Listen as WakeMed Cancer Care genetic counselor Megan Mortenson explains how working with a genetic counselor can help you put the results into perspective so you can make yourself – and your health – a priority.
WakeMed Outpatient Rehabilitation offers a robust breast cancer rehab and wellness program focused on functional recovery, lymphedema management, fitness & wellness and nutrition following your breast surgery. Lymphedema, an abnormal accumulation of protein-rich fluid that causes swelling, is often associated with breast cancer surgery and related treatments. From advanced biomedical technology to assist with early detection and ongoing monitoring of lymphedema to wound care and exercise programs, WakeMed’s breast health therapists share your goal of achieving the best possible outcomes.
Learn more from certified lymphedema specialist Stacy Patterson, OTR/L, CLT about the signs and symptoms of lymphedema to look out for.
No matter what your diagnosis or stage, the WakeMed team is here to offer comprehensive breast treatment options and walk alongside of you every step of the way.