Category: The Gray Zone
-
March 20, 2026
Why is DCIS Often Overtreated and What Can We Do About It?
There is growing concern about the overtreatment of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), meaning many individuals receive treatments that may not improve long-term outcomes. Overtreatment refers to treating a disease or condition even though it may not have caused symptoms or affected a patient’s lifespan. While DCIS can progress to invasive breast cancer, studies suggest that a substantial proportion of cases may remain harmless if left untreated, and that standard treatments carry physical and emotional side effects. This post explores why overtreatment is a concern and what emerging evidence shows.
-
February 28, 2025
What is Active Monitoring?
Active monitoring, also called active surveillance, is a strategy for managing low-risk DCIS in which a patient has regular imaging (including mammograms, MRIs or ultrasounds) and check-ups with her doctor. It is a strategy that avoids or delays surgery and radiation absent signs of worsening of the DCIS or invasive progression.
-
January 23, 2025
Should DCIS be Called Cancer?
Should DCIS be called cancer? It’s the million-dollar question. The answer, in short, depends on who you ask, and how they define “cancer.” The official diagnosis name is Ductal Carcinoma in Situ, and DCIS is generally referred to as “stage 0 breast cancer.” However, many physicians refer to DCIS as a “pre-cancer” or a “risk factor” for cancer, and there has been discussion over the last few decades about removing the words “carcinoma” and “cancer” from the nomenclature altogether. This page explores the debate, why language matters, and how terminology shapes patients perception and choices. What’s in a Name? The…
Subscribe below for the latest DCIS news and updates.