Common treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone
therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
The goal is to eliminate cancer cells, prevent recurrence, and improve survival
rates while preserving quality of life.
The treatment plan is individualized based on factors such as cancer stage, tumor
characteristics, patient’s health, and personal preferences.
Surgery is often used to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue. Options may
include lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) or mastectomy (removal of the
breast).
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors,
often after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth
and spread throughout the body.
Hormone therapy blocks or lowers the levels of certain hormones in the body to slow
or stop the growth of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer.
Targeted therapy uses drugs or other substances to specifically target cancer cells
while minimizing damage to healthy cells, unlike chemotherapy, which affects all
rapidly dividing cells.
Immunotherapy boosts the body’s immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells.
While not as commonly used in breast cancer treatment as other cancers, it may be
considered in certain cases.
Side effects vary depending on the type of treatment but may include fatigue, hair
loss, nausea, pain, and changes in appetite or weight. Effective management
strategies are available to help minimize side effects and improve quality of life
during treatment.