At the conclusion of this Symposium, participants should be able to:

• Identify appropriate techniques to complete a breast exam and documentation criteria to communicate findings to all healthcare providers.
• Describe current recommendation and implications for the utilization of mammogram, ultrasound and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in diagnosing breast cancer.
• List appropriate indications, risks/benefits and techniques of breast biopsy, bracketing and J-wire placement.
• Discuss current concepts, risk, benefits and patient population for lumpectomy and mastectomy.
• Examine the available options and differences in breast reconstruction methods.
• Identify current recommendations for chemotherapy in the management of breast cancer including mechanisms of action, risks, benefits and associated side effects.
• Define the role of hormone manipulation in the treatment of breast cancer and describe the indications for use, risks, benefits and associated side effects.
• Describe current recommendations in breast cancer prevention and discuss the utilization of genetic testing in prevention of the disease.
• Describe current recommendations for the utilization of radiation therapy in the management of breast cancer including indications for use, risks and benefits and associated side effects.
• Describe current clinical trials, implications and ethical considerations in the use of clinical trials.
• Identify techniques to facilitate communication of the diagnosis and management of breast cancer with the patient and family.
• List the various types of cultural diversities (i.e.., gender, age, race, religion, ethnicity, language, sexual orientation, socio-economics, etc.) that relate to demographics, diagnosis and/or treatment.
• Describe various types of benign and malignant changes of the breast. List the different types of breast cancer. Identify the important components in a pathology report and discuss the TNM staging system, which determine the stages of breast cancer.
• Identify deficiencies within the healthcare system. Describe state sponsored programs to assist with breast cancer detection, diagnosis and treatment in California.
• Describe physical and psychological techniques and strategies of integrative medicine and other complementary health programs. Identify the elements that create a breast cancer survivor’s plan.