According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women, with over 280,000 new cases diagnosed each year.

With early detection and advances in treatment, the survival rate has increased significantly in recent years. Roche, a leading pharmaceutical company, has developed a range of treatments for breast cancer that can help patients fight the disease and improve their quality of life.

Types of Breast Cancer Treatment

There are several types of breast cancer treatment available today, and the choice of treatment will depend on the stage of the cancer, its location and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a common treatment for breast cancer and involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. It is often used in combination with other treatments, such as surgery, radiation therapy, or hormone therapy.

Chemotherapy can be given before or after surgery and can help to reduce the size of the tumor, making it easier to remove. It can also be used to destroy any remaining cancer cells after surgery. Chemotherapy can be administered intravenously or orally, and the treatment period can last for several months.

Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy is a breast cancer treatment that involves the use of drugs that either reduce the amount of estrogen in the body or block its effect on cancer cells. Estrogen is a hormone that can stimulate the growth of breast cancer cells.

Hormone therapy is mainly used to treat breast cancers that are hormone receptor-positive (HR+), which means that they have receptors for estrogen or progesterone. Hormone therapy can be given before or after surgery and is often used in combination with other treatments.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is a type of treatment that uses high-energy radiation, such as X-rays or gamma rays, to kill cancer cells. It is often used in combination with other treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy.

Radiation therapy can be given before or after surgery. It can also be used to treat cancer that has spread to other parts of the body, such as the bones or brain.

Surgery

Surgery is a common treatment for breast cancer, and the type of surgery will depend on the size and stage of the cancer. The main types of surgery are:.

Lumpectomy: A surgery to remove the cancer and a small amount of surrounding tissue.
Mastectomy: A surgery to remove the entire breast, including the nipple and areola.
Reconstructive surgery: A surgery to rebuild the breast after a mastectomy using an implant or tissue from another part of the body.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy is a type of treatment that uses drugs or other substances to target specific molecules that are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. The drugs used in targeted therapy can be given intravenously or orally.

Targeted therapy can be used in combination with other treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or hormone therapy.

Complementary and Alternative Therapies

Many patients with breast cancer use complementary and alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, massage, or herbal supplements, to manage the side effects of treatment or to improve their quality of life.

While some of these therapies may be helpful, it is important to talk to your doctor before using them, as they may interact with other treatments or medications.

Side Effects of Breast Cancer Treatment

The side effects of breast cancer treatment can vary depending on the type of treatment and the individual patient. Some common side effects include:.

Fatigue
Nausea and vomiting
Hair loss
Changes in appetite
Chemo brain (a type of cognitive impairment)
Hot flashes
Skin changes
Joint pain or stiffness
Lymphedema (swelling in the arm or leg)
Menopausal symptoms

Managing Side Effects of Treatment

While the side effects of breast cancer treatment can be challenging, there are several strategies that can help patients manage them:.

Eating a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables
Getting regular exercise
Getting enough rest
Staying hydrated
Taking medication as prescribed by your doctor
Communicating openly with your doctor about your symptoms

Conclusion

Breast cancer treatment has come a long way in recent years, and there are now several effective treatments available that can help patients fight the disease and improve their quality of life.

Roche is committed to developing innovative treatments for breast cancer, and working with patients and healthcare providers to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.