Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer Prevention and Treatment
Listen NowOne in eight women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. But with increased awareness, early detection, and innovative new treatments, survival rates continue to rise.
At Riverside Healthcare, we’re committed to providing high-quality, compassionate breast care to women throughout the heartland of Illinois and Western Indiana. From advanced imaging to a full range of treatment options and support services, you’ll find everything you need to take charge of your breast health.
To request an appointment with a specialist close to home, call (815) 933-9660. You can also find a breast health expert anytime online.
About Breast Cancer
Symptoms can vary from person to person, but some of the most common signs include:
- A mass or lump on or inside the breast, which may feel as small as a pea
- Skin changes, such as swelling or redness in one or both breasts
- Change in size or shape of the breast(s)
- Changes in the appearance of one or both nipples
- Nipple discharge other than breast milk
- General breast pain
Breast cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells within the breast. The condition begins in the breast tissue, which is comprised of glands used for milk production (called lobules) and ducts that connect these lobules to the nipple. The remainder of the breast is made up of fatty, connective, and lymphatic tissue.
Except for skin cancer, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women and the second leading cause of cancer death, behind only lung cancer.
Many breast lumps turn out to be non-cancerous, though a malignant lump can mean that the cancer has already spread beyond the breast.
Survivors & Sisters – Facing Breast Cancer Together
Within weeks of one another, Marlene & Donna was also diagnosed with breast cancer. The sisters faced this challenge like every other in their life. Together.
Watch the VideoDetection & Diagnosis
If you're over 40, getting an annual mammogram has proven to be the most effective tool for detecting breast cancer early, when it's most treatable. Riverside offers all-digital mammography, and we were the first in the region to offer 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) – providing superior detection of even the smallest of tumors, especially in patients with dense breast tissue. Additionally, Riverside offers automated breast ultrasounds (ABUS), which work in conjunction with a mammogram to assist in the identification of breast cancer. You can find comfort knowing we've designated a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology for providing the highest standards in safety and care.
More About Screening & Diagnosis
Call (815) 935-7531 to schedule your mammogram at a Riverside breast health location near you. Or, you can book directly through MyChart.
Personalized Treatment
Eighty percent of breast biopsies are benign or non-cancerous. But, if you are diagnosed, rest assured you have some of the area's best experts in your corner. Our dedicated care team – including medical and radiation oncologists, breast surgeons, specially trained nurses, physical therapists, and more – work closely to create a personalized cancer treatment plan. Should you need surgery, we offer a full range of breast procedures, including mastectomy, lumpectomy, breast reconstruction, and more, to help return you to good health. And you have access to leading-edge cancer clinical trials, right here at home.
Support for Every Step
We're committed to providing all the education, tools, and resources you and your loved ones need to manage a cancer diagnosis. You'll find a full range of free or low-cost cancer support services, including nutritional, spiritual, and financial counseling, rehabilitation, survivorship programs, and more to meet your needs. You'll also be paired with your own breast health navigator to personally guide you every step of the way.