Although the exact treatment for breast cancer varies from person to person, guidelines help ensure quality care. These guidelines are based on the latest research and the consensus of experts.

The American Society of Clinical Oncology, or ASCO, and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, known as NCCN, are two respected organizations that regularly update and post their guidelines online. The National Cancer Institute, or NCI, also has overviews of treatment options.

The guidelines are developed for different stages of cancer. A higher stage indicates more advanced cancer. A lower stage indicates less advanced cancer with a better prognosis.