Breast cancer is cancer that forms in the cells of the breasts. After skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women in the United States. This type of cancer can occur in both men and women, but it’s far more common in women. Substantial support for breast cancer awareness and research funding has helped create advances in the diagnosis and treatment of this cancer type.

breast cancer

Breast Cancer

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Breast Cancer

The primary treatments for breast cancer encompass surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy. Treatment choices, whether singular or combined, are determined based on the cancer diagnosis method and its stage. This cancer type identified through routine screening may be at an early stage, while symptomatic cases might be at a later stage, necessitating distinct treatments.

Treatment Decision Factors:

Your healthcare team considers the cancer stage, grade, your overall health, and menopausal status when determining the most appropriate treatment plan. Open communication with your care team allows for questions and discussions about your treatment.

Overview of Treatments:

Surgery usually initiates breast cancer treatment, with the specific type depending on the cancer subtype. Following surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapies may be recommended based on the cancer type. The sequencing of treatments is personalized for each patient.

Secondary Breast Cancer:

For cases where this type of cancer has metastasized, treatment aims for remission rather than a cure. The focus is on shrinking tumors, relieving symptoms, and improving the quality of life.

Surgery:

Two main types of breast surgery include breast-conserving surgery (removing the tumor) and mastectomy (removing the entire breast). Mastectomy may be followed by reconstructive surgery. Studies suggest breast-conserving surgery with radiotherapy is as effective as total mastectomy for early-stage cancer.

Radiotherapy:

Controlled radiation doses target residual cancer cells after surgery and chemotherapy. Different types of radiotherapy, including breast, chest-wall, breast boost, and lymph nodes, may be employed based on the cancer type and surgical approach.

Chemotherapy:

Chemotherapy, involving cytotoxic medicines, is administered after surgery (adjuvant) or before surgery (neo-adjuvant) to shrink tumors. Treatment cycles, lasting 2-4 weeks with breaks, aim to destroy cancer cells. Side effects include infections, fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and hormonal changes.

Hormone Treatment:

For hormone receptor-positive cancers, hormone therapy lowers estrogen or progesterone levels. Medications like Tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors are used, often post-surgery and chemotherapy. Treatment duration may extend for 5 years or more.

Targeted Therapies:

Medicines like trastuzumab (herceptin) alter cellular activity, impeding cancer growth. Side effects include shivering, diarrhea, nausea, headache, and skin rash.

Risk of Infection:

Certain cancer medications may increase infection susceptibility. Immediate contact with the care team is crucial if symptoms like a high temperature or sudden illness occur.

Bisphosphonates:

Postmenopausal women may be offered bisphosphonates concurrently with chemotherapy to reduce the risk of cancer spread to bones. Possible side effects include kidney problems and jaw osteonecrosis.

Complementary Therapies:

Breathing exercises, massage, aromatherapy, and acupuncture are complementary therapies that support physical and emotional well-being. These can be integrated alongside conventional treatments with guidance from healthcare professionals. It is essential to consult with your breast cancer specialist nurse before trying any complementary therapy to ensure compatibility with conventional treatment.

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