What You Need to Know About Stage 0 Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer worldwide, and the number one cancer in women. To put it into perspective, globally, a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every 14 seconds. While this may come as a shocking statistic, the good news is that there are more than 4 million breast cancer survivors in the United States, and when detected early, data shows a relative 5-year survival rate of 99%. Knowing this, understanding the early stages of breast cancer is key to improving outcomes.

Read on for all you need to know about Stage 0 breast cancer, including what the research says about diagnosis, treatment options, and prognosis.

What Is Stage 0 Breast Cancer?

Stage 0 breast cancer, also known as ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), is a non-invasive form of breast cancer that occurs when abnormal cells grow within the milk ducts of the breast. The term “in situ” means “in place,” indicating that these cells haven’t yet moved beyond the ducts to invade nearby tissue. Fortunately, because it hasn’t spread, stage 0 is not considered life-threatening. However, research shows that it can increase the risk of developing invasive breast cancer later on. According to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, 20-50% of women diagnosed with DCIS will develop invasive breast cancer down the road, which is why reducing risk factors with early intervention is crucial.

Diagnosing Stage 0 Breast Cancer

Stage 0 breast cancer is the earliest form of detectable breast cancer and is most often discovered during routine mammograms. While a lump may not be present (and thus not felt during breast self-exams), micro-calcifications — tiny deposits of calcium that appear as white spots on a mammogram — can signal abnormal cell growth. If found during screening, an ultrasound and breast biopsy are usually performed to confirm the presence of DCIS.

Treatment Options

The treatment approach for stage 0 breast cancer can vary depending on factors like the size and location of the abnormal cells, as well as patient preferences. However, the good news is that because it’s a very early form of breast cancer, research suggests that DCIS can often be cured.

Common treatments include:

Lumpectomy: Known as breast-conserving surgery, which removes the abnormal tissue while preserving most of the breast. Radiation therapy often follows to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Mastectomy: Breast-removing surgery, also known as a mastectomy (removal of the entire breast), may be recommended in cases when there are multiple areas of DCIS.
Hormonal therapy: Also known as endocrine therapy, which may be indicated if the DCIS is estrogen and progesterone-receptor-positive. Drugs like tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors are often used after surgery or radiation to lower the risk of future breast cancer.

Prognosis and Risks

Stage 0 breast cancer has a high treatment success rate (of about 98% after 10 years). While this is positive and encouraging news, the treatment can be harsh on the body and costly to the patient. Because there is not enough data to predict which cases of DCIS will become invasive breast cancer and which will not, early intervention is recommended due to its impressive success rate. That said, it’s important to discuss all treatment options with your Doctor, including discussion of all risk factors and benefits.

The Takeaway: Early Detection is Key

While a positive diagnosis can feel scary, stage 0 breast cancer offers hope through early intervention. With regular screenings, such as mammograms, this non-invasive form of breast cancer is often caught before it becomes more serious. Advances in treatment and personalized care plans mean that women diagnosed with stage 0 have excellent outcomes, with survival rates as high as 99% when treated early. The key is staying informed, having regular checkups, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and discussing all available options with your healthcare provider. So, if you haven’t already, book that annual appointment!