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What Is Breast Cancer and How Is It Treated?

Breast cancer is a disease where cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, often forming a lump or tumor. Treatment depends on the cancer type, stage, and hormone receptor status. Common treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. The goal is to eliminate cancer and reduce the risk of recurrence.

What Are the Surgical Options for Breast Cancer?

Surgery is often the first line of treatment for breast cancer. The two main types are lumpectomy (removal of the tumor and some surrounding tissue) and mastectomy (removal of one or both breasts). Sentinel lymph node biopsy or axillary lymph node dissection may also be performed to check if the cancer has spread.

How Does Chemotherapy Help in Treating Breast Cancer?

Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It may be used before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink the tumor or after surgery (adjuvant) to kill remaining cancer cells. Chemotherapy is especially important for aggressive cancers or those that have spread to lymph nodes or other organs.

When Is Radiation Therapy Recommended?

Radiation therapy is commonly recommended after a lumpectomy or in certain cases after a mastectomy. It uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells in the breast area, chest wall, or lymph nodes. Radiation reduces the risk of recurrence, especially in cases of large tumors or when cancer has spread to nearby tissue.

What Is Hormone Therapy and Who Needs It?

Hormone therapy is used for breast cancers that are hormone receptor-positive. These tumors grow in response to estrogen or progesterone. Medications like tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors block these hormones or stop their production, slowing or stopping tumor growth. Hormone therapy is often taken for 5–10 years after initial treatment.