What Does Stage 1A Mean?

I believe it has something to do with the size and the rate the tumor is growing. I was a 1 a until after my surgery when they found one positive node and I went up to a 2a

It means your tumor is 2cm or smaller and has not spread to your lymph nodes. It is the earliest stage of invasive ductal carcinoma and has a 99% survival rate for 5 years.

Thanks. I understand now.

I had one micromet in my sentinel node and I’m considered stage 1a. Staging is a bit complicated. This chart is very helpful ( and very big) it takes grade, tumor size, lymph node involvement, hormone status, etc. into consideration. https://www.komen.org/breast-cancer/diagnosis/stages-staging/

There is a Canadian chart where I’m stage 1b, but my doctor says I’m considered 1a. 8mm tumor, grade 1.

Same for me, Nell. How many lymph nodes did they remove? Are you doing radiation?

Nell I don’t really understand that chart my oncologist has never staged my cancer this way

Nell, Mine was 8mm also. Negative lymph nodes.

Stage 1A typically refers to early-stage cancer that is small and hasn't spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body. Many community members here have navigated similar questions about staging, and connecting with your healthcare team can help you understand exactly what this means for your specific situation and treatment plan.