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Diagnosis

There’s a lot to take when you’re newly diagnosed with breast cancer. Find out what to expect and what might help you cope if you've just been diagnosed.

1. Understanding your diagnosis

Breast cancer grade

Find out more about what your breast cancer grade means and how it might affect your treatment options.

Breast cancer size

Find out more about how the size of your breast cancer can affect your treatment options.

Breast cancer stages

Find out more about breast cancer stages. The stage describes the size of the cancer and how far it has spread.

HER2

Some breast cancer cells have a higher-than-normal level of a protein called HER2 on their surface, which stimulates them to grow. This is known as HER2-positive breast cancer.

2. Getting the information you need

Questions to ask about your breast cancer

It's normal to have questions about your diagnosis and treatment. Below, we've put together some of the questions you may want to ask your doctor or breast care nurse, as well as a guide to preparing for appointments.

Your pathology results

Your pathology results give details about your breast cancer that help decide the treatment you’re offered. Find out more about what they mean.

3. Coping with breast cancer

Quality Assurance

Last reviewed in January 2025. The next planned review begins in January 2026.

Get support

  • Explore ways to talk to our nurses

    It can be difficult to talk to someone in person about breast cancer concerns. Explore other ways you can ask a question.

  • Call our free helpline

    If you have any concerns about breast cancer, or just want to talk, our specialist nurses are here for you.

    0808 800 6000

    Lines open: Monday to Friday - 9am to 4pm; Saturday - 9am to 1pm

  • Almona, wearing a coloured patterned dark blouse, with dark hair, holds a mug and is looking down at it whilst sat at a table in a cafe.

    Support for you

    Find out the support we offer for people affected by breast cancer.