Metastatic Breast Cancer (also called MBC, stage IV or advanced breast cancer) is breast cancer that has spread beyond the breast to other organs in the body (most often the bones, lungs, liver or brain).
In the U.S., it’s estimated that at least 154,000 people have MBC. However, it’s not common (about 6 percent) to have MBC when you are first diagnosed (called de novo Metastatic Breast Cancer).
Most often, MBC develops when the cancer returns at some point after the initial breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.
This section discusses metastatic breast cancer treatment and care. You can also find information on support for you and your family.
Although MBC is not curable, it can be treated. Treatment focuses on length and quality of life.
As treatment continues to improve, so does survival. Today, some people may live many years with metastatic breast cancer.
If you have metastatic breast cancer, talk with your health care provider before getting a seasonal flu shot to make sure it’s safe for you. If you are a caregiver, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends you get the seasonal flu shot.