Breast cancer treatment

Breast cancer treatment involves a combination of medical interventions aimed at eradicating breast cancer cells in the body. The choice of treatment depends on the stage and type of cancer, the patient's overall health and personal preferences.

Types of Breast Cancer Treatment

Surgery

Surgery is often the first line of attack against breast cancer. The types of surgery range from lumpectomy (removal of the tumor and a small amount of surrounding tissue) to mastectomy (removal of all breast tissue).

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy waves to kill cancer cells. It is often used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves using drugs to kill cancer cells. It can be given before surgery to shrink tumors, or after to kill remaining cells.

Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy is used for breast cancers that are sensitive to hormones. These cancers can be treated by blocking the body's ability to produce hormones or by interfering with hormone action.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy uses drugs that specifically target cancer cells. They work differently from chemotherapy drugs, which can't tell the difference between normal cells and cancer cells.

Choosing a Treatment Plan

The choice of treatment plan is influenced by a variety of factors including the type and stage of the cancer, potential side effects, the patient's overall health, age, and personal preferences. It's important for patients to discuss all of these factors with their healthcare team before making a decision.

Follow-Up Care

Follow-up care after breast cancer treatment is crucial. This involves regular medical checkups that include physical exams and medical tests to monitor for any signs of cancer recurrence.

See Also

• Breast cancer
• Cancer treatment
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Hormone therapy
• Targeted therapy