Article Category: Highlights
Understanding Breast Cancer—And All Its Acronyms
Published on December 05, 2025
Last updated 02:54 PM December 05, 2025
By
Dr. Nevin Wadehra,
hematologist/oncologist with Wellstar and Northwest Georgia Oncology Centers
The world of breast cancer can be confusing, especially because of all the abbreviations and acronyms. Knowing these terms can help us better understand breast cancer.
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Highlights
Genetic Testing: A Critical Tool in Cancer Treatment
It's been over three decades since genetic testing was first introduced as a tool for patients at risk of hereditary cancer syndromes. In its early days, genetic testing was expensive and time-consuming (often taking up to eight weeks for results). Fast forward to today and genetic testing is now a routine part of cancer care. It’s more accessible, comprehensive and, perhaps most importantly, significantly impactful for patients and their families.
Physicians help identify patients who could benefit from genetic testing, especially when someone has a personal or family history of cancer. Genetic testing can improve treatment outcomes, guide preventive care and provide vital information for the patient's family.
Benefits of genetic testing
1. Understanding the cause of cancer
One of the most common questions from patients newly diagnosed with cancer is, "Why did this happen to me?" While many cancers are the result of environmental factors, aging and sporadic mutations, genetic testing can offer a more definitive answer. For patients with hereditary cancer, knowing their cancer is genetically driven can help ease feelings of uncertainty and guilt.
For many, this knowledge brings a sense of empowerment, as they now have the opportunity to make informed decisions regarding their treatment and potential preventive measures for the future. This hereditary cancer risk was present since birth, and there was very little if anything the patient could have done differently throughout their life to prevent their diagnosis.
2. Personalized treatment options
For patients with cancers like breast, ovarian, pancreatic and prostate, identifying genetic mutations (like BRCA mutations) can open the door to personalized therapies. The earlier in the diagnostic process the genetic test is ordered, the quicker the patient can be matched with appropriate treatments.
Knowledge of genetic mutations can also guide surgical decisions. Patients with BRCA-positive breast cancer may be candidates for risk-reducing mastectomy or salpingo-oophorectomy—both of which can lower the risk of future cancers. These decisions are most effective when genetic results are available before surgery.
3. Identification of additional cancer risks
Cancer does not always occur in isolation, especially in patients with hereditary cancer syndromes. For instance, patients with Lynch syndrome, a leading cause of colorectal cancer, are also at increased risk for uterine cancer—up to 60%. If identified before a colon resection, this knowledge could allow a hysterectomy at the same time if necessary, minimizing the risk of a second cancer and optimizing care.
Beyond immediate cancer treatment, genetic testing can also lead to additional screenings that might otherwise be missed. For example, the ATM gene is a known contributor to prostate and breast cancer. But patients with an ATM gene mutation are also at elevated risk for pancreatic cancer. While general population screening is not typically recommended, high-risk patients should begin annual imaging and/or endoscopic ultrasounds as early as age 50 or 10 years before the earliest known pancreatic cancer in their family.
4. Informed decisions for family members
A cancer diagnosis doesn’t only affect the patient—it impacts their entire family. Once a genetic mutation is identified, relatives can undergo testing to assess their own cancer risk and talk to their care teams about screenings.
Testing the affected patient first is the most informative strategy for relatives. Patients with negative genetic test results can be reassured that relatives are not at significant risk for the same diagnosis.
The role of genetic counseling in cancer care
Genetic counselors provide the expertise necessary to interpret complex genetic results, discuss the implications for patients and their families, and offer psychological support throughout the process. Genetic counseling not only helps patients make sense of their genetic test results, but also provides them with the tools to make informed decisions about their health.
Counseling also helps address the emotional and psychological aspects of genetic testing, from potential feelings of anxiety to guilt and even empowerment. Research shows that genetic counseling has a positive impact on patient knowledge, reduces anxiety and can improve overall psychological well-being during a cancer journey.
Highlights
Turn Down the Heat: How Food Can Help With Hot Flashes
Hot flashes and night sweats are common during
perimenopause and menopause.
They can show up without warning—sudden waves of heat, flushing or sweating that can disrupt your day and leave you feeling uncomfortable.
Symptoms can vary widely in frequency and intensity. “The severity of menopausal symptoms varies among women due to a combination of lifestyle, genetic, psychological and socioeconomic factors,” said Wellstar Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
Karin Hulon.
Among those factors, nutrition plays a key role—and certain foods can influence how often symptoms happen. “Some foods trigger hot flashes,” Hulon said. “Pay attention to your body to see if you can make a connection.”
Keep reading
Helpful foods
A balanced, plant-rich plate can support your body’s natural regulation and may ease symptoms. “Soy is a phytoestrogen that mimics estrogen in our bodies and helps to reduce hot flashes,” Hulon said. “Foods high in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, such as seafood and green leafy vegetables, are also beneficial.” Options include:- Mediterranean-style eating: plant-based foods, healthy fats
- Soy-based foods: tofu, edamame, soy milk, tempeh
- Phytoestrogen-rich foods: whole grains, seeds, legumes, berries
- Omega-3: salmon, chia seeds, avocados, flaxseeds
- Naturally cooling foods: apples, bananas, carrots, cucumbers, watermelon, pears, romaine lettuce
Foods to limit or avoid
Certain foods and drinks can trigger or worsen hot flashes, including:- Caffeine: coffee, energy drinks
- Ultra-processed foods: baked goods, sugary drinks, fast food, fried foods
- Alcohol: wine (especially red wine), beer, liquor
- Spicy foods: hot peppers, jalapeños, cayenne pepper, hot sauces
- Nicotine: cigarettes, vaping, smokeless tobacco
Supporting your well-being
Choosing nourishing foods, staying hydrated and noticing your personal triggers can help your body feel more balanced and comfortable. Nutrition matters, but it is only one part of your overall health. “Lifestyle changes include smoking cessation, decreased alcohol consumption, exercise, dietary changes and weight loss,” Hulon said. “Decrease inflammation by eating a rainbow of fruits and vegetables, increasing sleep to seven to nine hours per night and reducing stress. Despite good lifestyle modifications, many women may still need menopause hormone therapy support.” Wellstar offers resources to guide women through this transition. “At Wellstar, refer to the Center for Best Health, where practitioners are trained in helping patients achieve healthy goals and offer behavioral, exercise and nutrition counseling,” Hulon advised. “Additionally, a certified menopause practitioner can help patients navigate menopause hormone therapy.” Our women’s health experts are here to support you with guidance, compassion and whole-person care. To learn more about menopause care at Wellstar, visit wellstar.org/menopause.
Highlights
Make Health Your Habit
The start of a new year is a great time to focus on your health. For many of us, that means setting resolutions to live a healthy, full life. While many people like to reset their health goals in January, Wellstar partners with patients year-round to help them feel their best.
By following tips from Wellstar health experts, you can create realistic resolutions and better your health—making healthy choices a lifelong habit rather than a short-term goal.
Partner with your Wellstar care team
When it comes to your wellness goals, staying healthy starts with a visit to your Wellstar primary care team.
“Your primary care provider will collaborate with you to create a customized care plan and recommend screenings based on factors such as your age, gender and family history,” said Wellstar Primary Care Physician Dr. Cristina Dasoveanu. “Regular screenings can help you stay ahead of issues and catch any health concerns early.”
Know Your Foundational 4
To check your health status and screen for potential medical issues, your clinician will take your Foundational 4 numbers, a few screenings that identify risk factors for some health conditions such as heart disease.
Blood pressure
A blood pressure test helps diagnose hypertension (high blood pressure), hypotension (low blood pressure), heart disease and other conditions.
Blood glucose level
The amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood can indicate the onset of diabetes or risk of heart disease, heart attack or stroke.
Blood cholesterol
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often called “bad” cholesterol, can indicate clogged arteries, which may lead to heart disease, heart attack or stroke.
Body mass index (BMI)
A higher level of body fat may indicate an increased risk for heart disease, hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes.
Personalized OB/GYN care for women
“Gynecologists partner with women in their healthcare across the lifespan,” said Dr. LeThenia “Joy” Baker, a Wellstar obstetrician and gynecologist. “The first gynecologic visit is recommended between 13 and 15, and the first exam between 18 and 21.”
Gynecologists are uniquely positioned to care for women from adolescence through menopause and beyond.
“We’ll make sure you are up to date on screenings like mammograms and Pap smears, help you make informed decisions about family planning and fertility, and provide medical and surgical treatment for a variety of conditions affecting the female reproductive system,” Dr. Baker said.
Primary care, anywhere
“While primary care physicians help patients meet long-term wellness goals, we’re also here for you when you’re sick,” said Wellstar Primary Care Physician Dr. Georgia Forrest. “Your primary care provider is already familiar with your background and health needs, so we can seamlessly continue that care and help you get back on track when you’re ill.”
If you need to see a specialist such as a cardiologist, pulmonologist or neurologist, your primary care team will refer you for that specialized care while continuing to help you manage your overall wellness.
“Through our patient portal MyChart, specialists and primary care physicians can see test results and visit summaries and stay updated on how each of us is working with the patient,” Dr. Forrest said.
Virtual care made easy with Wellstar Care Now
When you need care quickly, Wellstar Care Now makes it easy to connect with a trusted clinician anytime, anywhere. Our 24/7/365 virtual care services allow adults and children to receive high-quality medical care from experienced Wellstar clinicians for common health concerns, without the need to schedule an appointment or visit a clinic.
With Wellstar Care Now, you can access care from your phone, tablet or computer whether you are at home, at work or on the go. This convenient and secure option is designed to fit into your life while delivering the same trusted care you expect from Wellstar.
Our team can evaluate symptoms, recommend treatment options and prescribe medication when appropriate. Virtual care is ideal for non-emergency medical needs and helps you get care faster, without waiting rooms or travel time.Wellstar Care Now supports a wide range of everyday health needs, including:
- Upper respiratory infections (cough, cold or flu-like symptoms, sinus, ear issues)
- Bladder infections or urinary tract infections
- Minor burns, bites and cuts
- Skin conditions
- STD testing, prevention, treatment and counseling
- Contraception and menstrual health
- Mental and emotional health (depression, anxiety and stress management)
- General questions and more
Whether you need same-day care or support outside traditional office hours, Wellstar Care Now helps you get the care you need, when you need it.
Getting started is simple. Visit the Wellstar Care Now page to begin a virtual visit or schedule a same-day appointment.
In an emergency, such as if you are having trouble breathing or experiencing chest pain, call 911.
Learn more about the different types of care Wellstar offers and where to go if you’re not feeling well.