Good news about DCIS and Breast Cancer

Dr. Andrew Kaunitz, is a professor and associate chairman in the OB/GYN Department at the University of Florida, Jacksonville.  Here is what he has to say about a recent study: A landmark study of women diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) that clarifies that this should not be considered a life-threatening disease and confirms earlier reports that radiation after lumpectomy does not improve survival.  This study used a national database to assess long-term mortality from breast cancer after treatment of DCIS. Women who have been diagnosed with DCIS, should know: That this is not a life-threatening cancer; rather, it is highly treatable with 97% long-term survival rates. Open surgery should be performed after a core needle biopsy diagnosis because there is a 1 in 4 risk of finding invasive disease upon surgical excision; and Refer the patient to an up-to-date breast surgeon who