Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
Jose M. Baez, M.D., F.A.C.P., Board Certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
Breast cancer is a disease in which malignant cells form in the breast tissue. It can affect both men and women, though it is much more common in women. It is estimated that 1 in every 8 women in the United States will have breast cancer in their lifetime. This year alone, more than 43,000 women will die from the disease plus another 500+ men as well. The good news is that 65% of all cases are diagnosed in the localized stage (before the cancer has spread) and the survival rate is as high as 99% among these patients. That equals more than 3.8 million breast cancer survivors in the US at this moment!
Diagnosing Breast Cancer
There are a number of tests that are used to diagnose breast cancer. Usually a doctor will conduct a breast exam by feeling your breast and lymph nodes for any lumps or abnormalities. The next steps include:
A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast which can be used for screening and diagnosis. Medical experts and groups disagree about the best age at which to begin screening. Many factors influence their opinion, such as family history and even where you live. However, most agree that somewhere between the ages of 40-50 is when to start regular screening.
A breast ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images of the structures within the body. An ultrasound may be used to determine if a lump is a solid mass or a liquid-filled cyst.
A biopsy is the removal of a sample of breast cells for further testing. It is the only definitive way to diagnose breast cancer. During the biopsy, a specialized needle device is used to extract a core of tissue in the suspicious area. The samples are then sent to a laboratory for analysis where it is determined if the cells are cancerous or not. The sample is also analyzed to determine the type of cells involved, the aggressiveness of the cancer, and whether the cancer cells have receptors that might influence treatment.
A breast MRI (magnetic resonance image) uses radio waves to create pictures of the interior of the breast. Before a breast MRI, the patient will receive an injection of dye that allows the doctor to see contrast between good and bad tissues. In this type of test, no radiation is used to create the images.
Treating Breast Cancer
There are several ways to treat breast cancer and many patients will undergo more than one type of treatment. The treatment a patient receives depends on the kind of breast cancer and how far it has spread.
One treatment is surgery. This is an operation in which the doctor cuts out cancer tissue.
. Chemotherapy uses special medicines to shrink or kill cancer cells. The medicines can come in the form of pills or can be given through the veins. Sometimes both are used.
. Hormonal therapy blocks cancer cells from getting the hormones they need to grow.
. Biological therapy works with the body’s immune system to fight the cancer cells or to control the side effects from other treatments.
. Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
What is a concierge doctor and can one be used in cases of breast cancer?
Concierge doctors offer personalized care and direct access. They generally form a private practice in order to limit the number of patients for whom they are responsible.
One of the most popular reasons for using a concierge doctor is the quick access they provide to their patients. Often a patient can be seen at once instead of waiting weeks or even months. Many offer direct email and phone contact to their patients. They’re able to offer this due to the limited number of patients they take on.
Another advantage is that patients are paying monthly or annual fees so there is no need to pay for individual visits. For those with conditions like cancer that require frequent visits, the concierge doctor could be more cost-effective over time.
Since a concierge doctor isn’t seeing many patients, they are able to spend more time with each patient. That means more personalized care because the doctor knows you and has a better understanding of your medical history. This can make it easier for the doctor to detect problems and to direct your treatment.
A concierge doctor becomes your partner in your breast cancer journey. He can help you navigate your diagnosis and treatment. He will offer support and guidance as you walk through treatments and recovery.
About Dr. Baez
José M Baez MD, FACP is a Board-certified Internal Medicine specialist with over 30 years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. He is a Graduate of Mt. Sinai School of Medicine in NY. As a Ward Attending at Harlem Hospital, affiliate of Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, he served the Greater NYC community. Subsequently, he established a private practice in Fairfield County, CT. He was also Assistant Clinical Professor at University of Connecticut, School of Medicine.
As an 8-time Marathon runner, avid golfer, and boater he believes in Health & Wellness. His concierge medical office will deliver personalized care to optimize your health and wellness with individualized and enhanced access to your personal physician. The office is conveniently located near NCH, North Naples Health Park campus. Dr. Baez has been a stable member of the Naples community for 10 years, a member in good standing with the Collier County Medical Society and voted Naples Illustrated Top Physician 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022.
Call 239 777-0663 today to schedule your complimentary Meet and Greet visit with Dr. Baez and his staff. Also log on to JoseMBaezMD.com for more information.
Jose M Baez MD
11181 HEALTH PARK BLVD., SUITE 1180
NAPLES, FL 34110
(239) 777-0663
