Breast cancer therapy encompasses all of the treatment options used to manage and treat breast cancer. The therapy option recommended to a patient will be determined by the type and stage of breast cancer, in addition to the patient's overall and medical history. The aim of breast cancer therapy is to get rid of the cancer and prevent it from coming back. Breast cancer treatment generally consists of a combination of surgical procedures, radiation treatment, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormone therapy.
Breast Cancer Surgery
Surgery frequently serves as the initial line of
treatment for breast tumours. A mastectomy or lumpectomy may be performed to remove the tumour and surrounding tissue, according to the stage and location of the cancer. Lymph node removal may also be needed to find out if the cancer has spread.
Radiation
Following surgery, radiation therapy may be recommended to destroy any cancer cells that remain and reduce the risk of recurrence. This entails targeting and destroying cancer cells with controlled doses of radiation.
Radiotherapy for breast cancer comes in a variety of forms, including:
- Breast radiotherapy
- Chest-wall radiotherapy
- Breast boost
- Radiotherapy to the lymph nodes
Side effects of radiation therapy for breast cancer include:
- Irritation and darkening of breast skin
- Fatigue
- Lymphoedema
Chemotherapys
Chemotherapy may also be used to treat
breast cancer, especially if it has spread to other parts of the body. This involves the use of prescription medications to kill cancer cells, which can be given orally or intravenously. To treat breast cancer, various types of chemotherapy are used, such as carboplatin, paclitaxel, and doxorubicin.
Hormone therapy
Hormone therapy is a type of treatment used for breast cancer in which oestrogen and progesterone are blocked from contributing to the growth of certain
types of breast cancer. Patients with hormone receptor-positive tumours are usually prescribed hormone therapy including tamoxifen, anastrozole, and goserelin.
Side effects of hormone therapy performed for breast cancer can include:
- Fatigue
- Vaginal dryness
- Hot flashes
- Mood changes
- Vaginal discharge
Targeted therapy
Another type of breast tumour treatment is targeted therapy. In this, specific genes or proteins that promote cancer growth are targeted and eliminated. These medications can be taken by mouth or IV and are frequently used in conjunction with other forms of treatment.
Some of the medicines used in targeted therapy for breast cancer include:
- Pertuzumab
- Neratinib
- Kadcyla
In addition to these medical treatments, breast cancer patients can benefit from incorporating daily exercise, a nutritious diet, and
stress management techniques in their lifestyle. Patients must collaborate closely with their care team to develop a treatment plan that is specific to their needs and preferences.
A Note From Livlong
Breast cancer treatment is a complex process that is determined by the cancer's stage and type. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy are all treatment options currently available. Regular breast care, such as self-examinations and mammograms, can aid in the early detection of breast cancer and improve outcomes. Breast pain is a common symptom caused by cysts in the breast or a breast tumour. Although not all breast pain is indicative of cancer, it is critical to seek medical attention if symptoms persist. For managing breast cancer and lowering the risk of recurrence, early diagnosis, timely treatment, and regular follow-up care are critical.
