Overview
Understanding breast cancer
Breast cancer usually is found one of two ways: by a screening mammogram image or by a change in the breast found by a woman, her partner or her health care provider. Once breast cancer is found, it is important that you understand your breast cancer. This is the first step in your treatment journey. We will work with you and tailor your treatment to your individual needs.
Pathology
What does your breast cancer diagnosis mean?
You might have heard that a pathologist is the most important doctor you will never meet. This is especially true with a cancer diagnosis. At UW Health, your breast tissue will be reviewed by at least two breast pathologists. This important doctor will determine your diagnosis, which helps determine which treatments are recommended for you.
Under 40
What you need to know if you're under 40
For women diagnosed with breast cancer under age 40, the UW Health Breast Center experts offer thoughtful treatment plans that could include specialized services such as genetic counseling and fertility preservation.
Treatments and research
No two breast cancers are exactly alike
Through screening, diagnosis and treatment, as well as clinical trials and research, you and your family will get a personalized treatment program tailored to your needs as an individual.
Women, and men, with breast cancer have unique emotions, challenges and needs. Each person also has a unique disease, as no two breast cancers are exactly alike.
At the UW Health | Carbone Cancer Center, our care for breast cancer is unique as well. Here, you will find treatments, knowledge and support that few can match. We are a Comprehensive Cancer Center. This title comes from the National Cancer Institute. It speaks to the strength of our patient care and reflects our commitment to research and education — for the public and cancer professionals.
When you turn to us, you will have a large team of nationally renowned breast cancer experts ready to help. We first learn all we can about you and your specific cancer. Then, we work with you to create a personalized plan to treat it.
The UW Health breast team offers multidisciplinary video visits so you can meet with our team virtually. We will evaluate your breast biopsy and cancer as well as review your breast imaging. Once these reviews are complete we will arrange a video visit with a surgeon, medical oncologist and radiation oncologist so you can discuss treatment options, clinical trials and options for care at UW Health. This approach can be used for patients with a new diagnosis of breast cancer or those with metastatic disease which means breast cancer that has traveled to other parts of the body.
Meet our team
A team that offers unmatched expertise, support and compassion
At UW Health, breast specialists provide all of your care. From screening and diagnosis to treatment and reconstruction, our team focuses on your unique health and needs. You have access to the nation’s top doctors in surgery, reconstructive surgery, radiation therapy, medical oncology, radiology and pathology.
A full support team that includes nurse navigators, nutritionists, health psychologists, genetic counselors and more who will be at your side throughout your treatment. At UW Health, we care for every aspect of your physical and emotional well-being.
Locations
Breast center locations
Our Breast Center has locations in Madison, Wis., at Eastpark Medical Center and University Hospital. In Rockford, Ill, at Carbone Cancer Center Rockford and 1340 Charles St. Clinic.
We offer screening mammograms at eight locations throughout Dane County and four locations in Northern Illinois. Learn more about our breast imaging locations.
Patient stories
Real life inspiration
Patient support and services
UW Health support services and resources
We know how challenging it is to deal with breast cancer. We also know that having the right support and information can make things easier. We offer a number of resources to help.