Surgeons Play Big Role in Women's Choices for Breast Cancer Care

WEDNESDAY, Sept. 13, 2017 -- A breast cancer patient's choice of surgeon can have a major effect on her treatment, according to a new study.

That's because surgeons have a strong influence on whether early stage cancer patients have both breasts removed even when cancer is found in only one breast -- a procedure called contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM).

Managing Pain Can Be a Puzzle After Breast Cancer

MONDAY, Sept. 11, 2017 -- Breast cancer patients who take opioid painkillers are more likely to discontinue an important hormone treatment that helps ensure their survival, researchers report.

Use of prescription opioids such as OxyContin (oxycodone) and Vicoprofen (hydrocodone) was "significantly associated" with failure to adhere to the hormone therapy and a higher risk of death, the study found.

Could Urban Lighting Raise Breast Cancer Risk for Some Women?

THURSDAY, Aug. 17, 2017 -- New research reveals an unexpected potential risk factor for breast cancer: city lights.

The Harvard Medical School study found an association between living in areas with high amounts of ambient nighttime light and slightly increased odds for breast cancer in younger women who smoke.

New SSM Health Outpatient facility opens in St. Charles

Antiperspirant Use Seems Safe During Breast Cancer Treatment: Study

FRIDAY, Aug. 11, 2017 -- Contrary to what some doctors might say, new research suggests it's OK to use antiperspirants while undergoing radiation therapy for breast cancer.

Researchers surveyed 92 patients and found that 79 percent said their doctors had told them not to use antiperspirants during treatment. And a survey of 105 doctors and nurses found that 82 percent said they regularly told breast cancer patients not to use antiperspirants during radiation therapy.

'Nipple-Sparing' Mastectomies Don't Raise Odds of Cancer's Return: Study

WEDNESDAY, July 19, 2017 -- Surgeons performing mastectomies can offer a form of the procedure that allows women to retain the nipple for use in breast reconstruction.

Now, a reassuring study finds that this type of mastectomy doesn't raise a woman's risk for breast cancer recurrence.