Breast cancer treatment involves a variety of approaches depending on the type, stage, and other individual factors. This article outlines the common treatment options available to breast cancer patients.
Surgery Surgery is often the first line of treatment for breast cancer, involving the removal of the cancerous tumor and sometimes nearby lymph nodes. The main types of breast cancer surgeries include:
- Lumpectomy: Removal of the tumor and a small margin of surrounding tissue.
- Mastectomy: Removal of one or both breasts, partially (segmental mastectomy) or completely (total mastectomy).
Chemotherapy Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells and is typically used before surgery (neoadjuvant chemotherapy) to shrink tumors or after surgery (adjuvant chemotherapy) to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. Treatment plans can vary in length and intensity based on the specific cancer characteristics.
Radiation Therapy Radiation therapy uses high-energy waves to target and kill cancer cells. It’s often used after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancerous cells in the breast, chest wall, or axilla (underarm area).
Hormone Therapy For cancers that are hormone receptor-positive, hormone therapy can help block the body’s natural hormones (estrogen and progesterone) from supporting the growth of cancer cells. Examples include Tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors.
Targeted Therapy Targeted therapy drugs target specific characteristics of cancer cells, such as a protein that allows the cancer cells to grow in a rapid or abnormal way. HER2-positive breast cancers may be treated with targeted therapies that attack the HER2 protein.
Immunotherapy Although less common in breast cancer than in other cancers, immunotherapy is a growing area of research and involves using the body’s immune system to fight cancer.
Conclusion Understanding the available treatment options allows patients and their healthcare providers to make informed decisions that best suit their individual needs. It’s important to discuss all potential treatments, including their benefits and risks, with your oncology team.