Understanding Lobular Breast Cancer: Updates on Research, Treatment, Resources, and Support

Join Us for an Informative Online Session 

If you have been diagnosed with invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) breast cancer, this session is designed for you. Learn how ILC differs from other breast cancer types, what that means for detection and treatment, and how current research is shaping care today and in the future. 

This session is open to patients, care partners, staff, and anyone who wants to better understand invasive lobular carcinoma breast cancer. You will hear from clinical experts as well as people affected by ILC, offering both medical updates and lived experience. 

What Is Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)? 

Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) is a type of breast cancer that accounts for about 10–15% of breast cancer diagnoses in the United States. It begins in the lobules, the milk‑producing glands of the breast, and has the ability to spread into nearby breast tissue and beyond. 

ILC cells tend to spread in thin lines rather than forming a firm lump. This pattern can make ILC harder to detect on routine imaging and may lead to diagnosis at a later stage than some other breast cancers. Symptoms can be subtle and may include breast fullness, thickening, or changes in breast shape rather than a distinct mass. ILC is also more likely than ductal breast cancer to involve more than one area of the breast or, in some cases, both breasts. 

Because much breast cancer research and education has focused on ductal cancer (IDC), people with lobular breast cancer may feel that available information does not always apply to their diagnosis. As research specific to lobular breast cancer continues to advance, care approaches, education, and support are continuing to improve. 

Why This Session Matters 

ILC can go into remission, especially when diagnosed and treated at earlier stages. Some people reach complete remission, while for others the cancer may not fully go away but can be effectively managed over time. In these cases, ongoing treatments—such as endocrine therapy or other drug therapies—may help control the disease, reduce the risk of progression, and support quality of life. 

Because ILC can behave differently and may return later, understanding long-term follow-up care is important. Staying informed about ongoing research and new treatment options can also help you make informed decisions about your care plan.

This session is designed to help you better understand ILC, feel more informed, and know what questions to ask as you move forward: 

• Learn how ILC differs from other breast cancers and why those differences matter 
• Understand symptoms, detection challenges, and imaging considerations 
• Hear updates on research and treatment approaches,including long‑term management 
• Gain insight from patients affected by ILC 
• Learn what questions to ask your care team 
• Explore education, support, and advocacy resources 

This event will not be recorded. Registration is free. After registering, you will receive a Teams link and instructions by email. 

To support privacy, you may keep your camera off and are encouraged to join from a private location. Please share only what you feel comfortable sharing and respect the privacy of others. Questions may be posted in the chat at any time and will be addressed at the end of the session, as time allows. 

Questions or Want to Register by Phone? 

Contact the Cancer Resource Center at (980) 442‑1006 or email 

LCISupportiveOncology@advocatehealth.org for help registering, to receive a program calendar, or to ask about breast cancer resources. 

Important Disclaimer 

This session is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please talk with your oncology care team about what is right for your individual situation.