What Is Your Plan For Breast Cancer Treatment?

In our earlier Blog (what types of treatments are available for breast cancer?) we have mentioned different types of Breast Cancer Treatment. Now we are discussing the planning for Breast Cancer Treatment.

First step is Planning your Treatment

Once breast cancer has been diagnosed, doctors discuss a suitable treatment plan with patient as per her individual condition and stage of cancer.

Is it important to consider different types of breast cancer treatments?

Successful treatment for breast cancer implies completely getting rid of the cancer or at least controlling the growth of tumors for an extended period of time. However as breast cancer is made up of several cancer cells, removal of those cells may call for various treatments.

A treatment plan typically includes combination of following:

•Surgery

•Chemotherapy

•Radiation therapy

•Hormonal therapy (anti-estrogen therapy)

•Targeted Therapies (such as Herceptin, Tykerb, Avastin)

Chalking out treatment strategy for an individual patient involves careful thought and good knowledge of diagnosis results. Doctors draft a treatment plan that can work against all internal parts of cells that cause cancer to develop, grow and spread to other parts of the body.

Resistance of tumor to certain therapies

During the course of breast cancer treatment, there is a possibility that some tumors might develop an immunity or resistance towards treatment.

Sequence of treatment

The order of treatments for breast cancer is suggested by the surgeon as per the diagnosis and medical reports. The most commonly used sequence goes in the following order:

•Surgery – to remove breast cancer tumor to for breast reconstruction

•Chemotherapy

•Radiation therapy

•Hormonal therapy – this is started after other treatments have been given and if cancer is

•Hormone receptor positive

Understanding the Risk of Recurrence

One of the aims of breast cancer treatment is to prevent the recurrence of cancer. Doctors usually recommend one course of action over another because it lowers the risk of relapse.

Adjusting different treatments in your work-life schedule

Your decision to work during breast cancer treatment procedure is a very personal one that concerns several factors – your work and financial situation, your general health's reaction to treatment and its side effects, and your personal preferences to keep your daily routine going.

Source: All data taken from Breast Cancer Hospital Website under Dharamshila Hospital and Research Centre