Advancements in breast cancer treatment have significantly enhanced both prognosis and cure rates in recent decades. The primary goal of treatment is to achieve complete remission, but if this proves unattainable, physicians focus on halting tumor progression and metastasis, prolonging life expectancy, and preserving quality of life.
Treatment modalities for breast cancer encompass:
1. Surgery
2. Chemotherapy
3. Hormone therapy
4. Radiation therapy
Individualized treatment plans are devised by your healthcare provider based on various factors, including:
– Cancer type and stage
– Hormone sensitivity
– HER2/neu gene expression
– Overall health status
– Patient preferences
Surgery options are tailored to the size of the tumor. A lumpectomy may suffice for smaller tumors, preserving the breast tissue. In cases of larger tumors, mastectomy may be necessary to ensure complete removal. Indications for mastectomy include significant tumor size, multiple tumors, or tumors located near the nipple.
Radiation therapy employs high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells, often following breast-conserving surgery to minimize recurrence risk. Though localized, radiation therapy may cause side effects such as fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and skin irritation, which can be managed with medications.
Chemotherapy utilizes potent drugs to eradicate cancer cells, often administered in combination. The choice of drugs aims to minimize harm to healthy cells while maximizing cancer cell destruction. Chemotherapy is typically reserved for advanced, aggressive, or hormone-resistant breast cancers.
Hormone therapy alters hormone levels to impede the growth of hormone-sensitive tumors. Medications like Tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors are commonly used to block estrogen receptors and control estrogen-dependent tumor growth.
Overall, advancements in breast cancer treatment offer a range of options tailored to individual patient needs, optimizing outcomes and quality of life.