Family Resources: Health Library

Nationwide Children’s Hospital is a leading pediatric care facility. Please use our A-Z listing below to find information about the disease, condition, procedure or test you need.

Breast Cancer: Introduction

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women in the U.S. Once breast cancer occurs, cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body, making it life-threatening. The good news is that breast cancer is often found early, before it has spread.

Breast Cancer: Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is a breast cancer treatment choice that often uses X-rays to kill cancer cells. There are several ways to treat breast cancer with radiation therapy.

Breast Cancer: Risk Factors

A look at specific things that may increase your chance of having breast cancer.

Breast Cancer: Surgery

Surgery to remove as much of the cancer as possible is the main treatment for breast cancer. Today, women have many surgical choices.

Breast Cancer: Symptoms

Breast cancer often causes no symptoms in its early stages. Women with early breast cancer usually don't have pain or notice any breast changes caused by the cancer. This is why routine screening tests are so important.

Breast Cancer: Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy is the use of medicines that target parts of cancer cells that make them unlike normal cells. They do this without affecting most normal, healthy cells.

Breast Cancer: Treatment Questions

These questions can help you work with your healthcare provider and make good decisions about your cancer care.

Breast Health: Preventive Care

To keep track of your breast health, you should get a yearly clinical exam and mammograms as advised by your doctor.

Breast Infections and Inflammations

The most common type of breast infection is lactational mastitis. This happens when a woman is breastfeeding. The nipples become cracked and sore, allowing bacteria from the baby's mouth to enter the ducts and rapidly multiply in the milk.

Breast Pain (Mastalgia)

There are two main types of breast pain. The most common type is linked to the menstrual cycle and is almost always hormonal.

Breast Self-Awareness

Your breasts change at different stages of your life. Breast self-awareness is knowing how your breasts normally look and feel. This can help you to find even small changes right away.

Broccoli and Walnut Salad

This nutty salad is chock full of vegetables and complementary flavors.