Breast health leader in Chicago

The second most common form of cancer in women is breast cancer. With our advanced technology and diagnostic tools, we can help make sure breast cancer is caught early, when it’s most treatable. 

Advocate Health Care treats more people with breast cancer symptoms than any other health care provider in Illinois. This experience, combined with our compassionate approach, makes us the source for breast health you can trust. We offer the highest level of care close to home in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs – from genetic testing to access to clinical trials.

Breast cancer types

The four main types of breast cancer are ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) and invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC). Invasive ductal carcinomas and invasive lobular carcinomas are the most common types.

These types of breast cancer are identified based on where the cancer starts and whether it’s invasive (has spread to other parts of the breast). Most breast cancers start in parts of the breast that make milk – the ducts and lobules. The lobules are glands that make milk and the ducts are tubes that carry milk from the lobules to the nipple.

Different types of breast cancer are similar in men and women. Learn about breast cancer in men.

What are the symptoms of breast cancer?

The most common symptom of breast cancer is a new lump or mass in one of your breasts. Other symptoms are:

• Swelling of all or part of a breast
• Skin dimpling
• Pain of the breast or nipple
• Nipple retraction (pulling inward)
• Red, dry, flaking or thickened skin of the nipple or breast
• Nipple discharge
• Swollen lymph nodes under the arm or near the collar bone

Although any of these breast cancer symptoms may also be present without cancer, it’s important to have them checked by your doctor.

When should you get a mammogram?

Advocate Health Care recommends using a three-step method to screen for breast cancer. The three-step method includes practicing monthly breast self-exams, having regular physician exams and at age 40, establishing a screening mammogram plan with your doctor. Used in combination, these three steps raise the detection rate of breast cancer to 96%.

Work closely with your physician to determine the screening schedule that’s right for you. Learn more about when you should get a mammogram. Same-day results are available.

In addition to screening for breast cancer, preventive lifestyle modifications can help reduce your risk of developing the disease. Find more in-depth, evidence-based recommendations in our breast cancer risk reduction booklet [PDF].

Multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer treatment

We’ve made comprehensive breast cancer treatment simple at Advocate by giving you convenient access to a full range of leading breast health experts. We also offer specialized, multidisciplinary clinics that allow you to see your entire team in just one visit.

Your coordinated care may include:

• Breast surgeons
• Plastic surgeons
• Oncologists
• Radiologists
• Survivorship specialists
• Genetic counselors
• Clinical trial coordinators
• Physical therapists

An important part of our multidisciplinary approach, our nurse navigators serve as dedicated resources during your journey. They find answers to all your questions and ensure smooth transitions through each stage of your care. Contact our nurse navigators to learn more.

Second opinions made easy

Questions today. Answers today.

Connect with our breast surgeons and get a second opinion in just three simple steps:

1. Start an online chat

Click the blue chat icon on this page to begin a conversation with us. We'll connect you to an expert.

2. Talk to an expert
One of our breast surgeons near you will call you for a consultation within 24 hours.They can answer any of your initial questions regarding a second opinion.

3. Get a second opinion
Meet with your breast surgeon to confirm your diagnosis, make sure your cancer treatment plan fits your needs and goals or discover clinical trial opportunities.

Learn more about second opinions about breast cancer.

Find a breast specialist

Use our online search tool to find an expert breast specialist close to home and schedule an appointment today. They’ll work closely with you to develop a personalized care plan.

If you have a high risk of developing breast cancer, your care team may also refer you to a high-risk breast clinic. These clinics offer information about healthy lifestyle choices, additional screenings, genetic counseling and preventive treatments.