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Westchester Doctor Allays Fears On Breast Cancer

MOUNT KISCO, N.Y. -- A recent article in the New York Times, quoting JAMA Oncology, raises doubts over the value of surgery for early-stage breast lesions.

Dr. Philip C. Bonanno, director of The Breast Program and Director of Integrated Cancer Care in the Cancer Treatment and Wellness Center at Northern Westchester Hospital in Mount Kisco.

Dr. Philip C. Bonanno, director of The Breast Program and Director of Integrated Cancer Care in the Cancer Treatment and Wellness Center at Northern Westchester Hospital in Mount Kisco.

Photo Credit: Submitted

The article reported that 60,000 American women with early stage breast cancer, known as ductal carcinoma in situ, or D.C.I.S., have opted for surgery, either a lumpectomy or mastectomy.

But in some cases, that treatment may make no difference in their outcomes. 

The reality, said Philip C. Bonanno, MD, FACS, Director of The Breast Program and Director of Integrated Cancer Care in the Cancer Treatment and Wellness Center at Northern Westchester Hospital in Mount Kisco, is that any medical situation needs to be taken - and considered -- on an individual basis.

"At NWH, the course of treatment for all of our patients is individualized and driven by evidence-based medicine," he said. 

"We treat the patient as a whole, employing risk assessments, genetic counseling, and we always explore the least invasive options as possible to ensure the best outcome and quickest recovery time."

In addition, said Dr. Bonanno, the patient plays an integral role in developing the plan of care. 

"This recent study on D.C.I.S. in JAMA Oncology only underscores the need to treat patients on an individual basis," he stressed.

"I am hopeful about the future because there have been great strides made in appreciating and understanding the challenges that the diagnosis of D.C.I.S. represents and the alternative forms of management that have evolved.”

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