Danielle Fishel, known for her role as Topanga Lawrence on the 1990s TV show “Boy Meets World,” has announced she has been diagnosed with a very early stage of breast cancer.
On August 19, Fishel shared the news during an episode of her podcast, “Pod Meets World,” which she co-hosts with former co-stars Rider Strong and Will Friedle. She revealed that she first informed Strong and Friedle about her diagnosis.
Fishel disclosed that she has been diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), a type of breast cancer. She described her condition as “technically stage zero,” which indicates it is in an early and more treatable stage. Fishel plans to undergo surgery to remove the cancerous cells and may require additional treatment.
She credited her annual mammogram screenings for the early detection of her cancer. “The only reason I caught this cancer when it is still stage zero is because I made an appointment as soon as I got my screening results,” Fishel explained. She encouraged others to prioritize regular screenings, saying, “If you have to find out that you have cancer, find out when it’s at stage zero, if possible.”
Understanding DCIS
Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a non-invasive form of breast cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, DCIS accounts for about 20% of new breast cancer cases. It occurs when cancer cells are found in the ducts of the breast but have not spread to surrounding tissue. Most women with DCIS can be cured with early treatment. However, if left untreated, DCIS can progress to invasive breast cancer, spreading to nearby tissues and potentially other parts of the body.
Assessing Breast Cancer Risk
Regular screening, such as annual mammograms, is essential for early detection of breast cancer. The timing for starting screenings varies based on individual risk factors. Dr. Richard Reitherman, a radiologist and medical director at MemorialCare Breast Center, highlights that the primary risk factors include age, family history of breast or ovarian cancer, genetics, and previous benign breast biopsies. Women without strong risk factors should begin screenings by age 35, while those with a family history or other risks should consult their doctor earlier.
Two online tools can help estimate breast cancer risk:
Breast Cancer Surveillance Consortium (BCSC)
IBIS Breast Cancer Risk Evaluation Tool
Dr. Reitherman advises that the BCSC tool is user-friendly, while the IBIS tool provides a more detailed risk assessment but is more complex to complete.
Screening Recommendations
Dr. Lori Alfonse from Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute suggests that women at average risk should start annual mammograms at age 40. Women with a significant family history or other risk factors might need to begin screenings earlier and consider additional tests like breast ultrasound or MRI.
For women with a family history of breast cancer, screenings should start ten years before the age at which their closest relative was diagnosed. For instance, if a mother was diagnosed at 40, her daughter should begin screenings at 30.
Additional Screening Methods
While annual mammograms are standard, other methods are available. Breast MRI is used for women with a high risk of breast cancer, while breast ultrasound can be useful for those with dense breast tissue. Recent FDA regulations require that breast imaging facilities notify patients about breast density, which can impact the choice of screening method.
Genetic Testing
Genetic testing can identify mutations that increase breast cancer risk. Dr. Reitherman recommends genetic assessments by age 30, particularly for those with strong risk factors. Tools like MyRisk by Myriad Genetics can help evaluate genetic risk and guide management options. Women with high-risk mutations may start screening as early as age 25, using both mammograms and MRIs.
Self-Advocacy in Health
Dr. Reitherman emphasizes the importance of knowing personal and family health history and staying informed about appropriate screenings. He advises people to advocate for themselves and seek necessary tests, even if it means paying out of pocket if insurance does not cover them.
Conclusion
Danielle Fishel’s announcement about her early-stage breast cancer highlights the importance of regular screenings for early detection. DCIS, while serious, is often highly treatable with timely intervention. Regular mammograms and awareness of personal risk factors are crucial for effective breast cancer management and prevention.
