estrogen-receptor-positive breast cancer

Estrogen-receptor-positive (ER-positive) breast cancer is a type of breast cancer where the cancer cells have receptors that bind to estrogen. These receptors fuel the growth of the cancer. ER-positive breast cancers account for about 60 to 70 percent of all breast cancer cases in women.1

This type of cancer is diagnosed through methods like mammography and biopsy. If cancer is confirmed, tests are done to determine the presence of estrogen and progesterone receptors, which are crucial for treatment decisions.1

Treatment for ER-positive breast cancer often involves therapies that block the action of estrogen. This can include medications like tamoxifen, which prevents estrogen from stimulating tumor growth, or aromatase inhibitors, which reduce estrogen production in postmenopausal women.12