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Understanding Breast Cancer: Stages, Treatments, And Survival Rates
Treating breast cancer is a well-collaborated effort that involves accuracy and patience in every step. As there are five stages of breast cancer, the treatment for each of the stages is different. In some stages, a simple lumpectomy can remove the cancerous tissue, while in some cases, a patient needs chemotherapy.
Doctors use different methods like mammograms, MRI, USG etc., to identify the stage of breast cancer. Doctors then decide and choose the best cancer treatment based on the stage. Some patients go for breast-conserving techniques, while some go for surgery. It is the oncologist who will determine the cancer stage and the best treatment option.
The stage of breast cancer depends on the size of the tumour, whether it has spread to other body parts and the number of lymph nodes it has affected.
The stages of breast cancer and their respective treatments are given below:
Stage 0 Breast Cancer Treatment
The first stage is called the DCIS stage, where the cancer is non-invasive, and the cancer cells are confined only to the milk ducts. Immediate treatment in this stage prevents cancer from spreading.
Lumpectomy is done to remove the cancerous cells.
Mastectomy can be done to remove the breasts.
Radiation therapy after the lumpectomy lowers the risk of the spread, and it is done five days per week for 5-7 weeks.
Targeted hormone treatment or oral hormone-like tamoxifen, trastuzumab etc., is considered.
Stage 1 Breast Cancer Treatment
Stage 1A and 1B are the early stages of invasive cancers where the tumour is about 2cm, and axillary lymph nodes are not affected. To treat this cancer following treatments can be done:
Lumpectomy and Mastectomy.
Radiation/ hormone therapy.
Chemotherapy for hormone-positive breast cancer and even for Triple Negative Breast cancer (no presence of estrogen, progesterone and HER2)
Stage 2 Breast Cancer Treatment
In stages 2A and 2B, the tumour is 2-5 cm and has spread to nearby lymph nodes or 5 cm and hasn’t spread to lymph nodes. This stage requires a combined treatment of two or more therapies.
Lumpectomy and mastectomy along with the removal of a certain part of the chest muscle, if required
Radiation therapy followed by the previous method.
Chemotherapy using a variety of drugs like docetaxel, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide etc.
Herceptin, along with other targeted therapies like Perjeta and Nerlynx.
Stage 3 Breast Cancer Treatment
Stage 3 consists of three stages of breast cancer, namely 3A, 3B and 3C. In this stage, the tumours are large and have started growing into the internal mammary lymph nodes, and in some cases, cancer has even spread across the chest bone, collar bone and internal mammary nodes. Some treatments options might include:
Mastectomy
Effective and prolonged chemotherapy and hormone therapy.
Stage 4 Breast Cancer Treatment
It is by far the last stage of recognising breast cancer. If breast cancer has reached stage 4, cancer has already spread to several parts of the body- Metastasized.
A systematic drug therapy involving chemotherapy, radiation therapy and hormone therapy.
Immunotherapy
Patients with HER2 positive cancers who no longer respond to traditional drugs might live with Pertuzumab, Ado-trastuzumab etc. along with chemotherapy.
What Are The Survival Rates For Breast Cancer Treatments?
The survival rates for breast cancer depends on the patient, genetics and its stage. White women are more likely to develop breast cancer, but even black women can develop dangerous breast cancers in their lifetime. Surveillance research of the American Cancer Society in 2019 gives key deductions of the survival rate as:
Breast Cancer Stages
Survival Rates (%)
stage 1
44%
stage 2
29-33%
stage 3
8-12%
stage 4
5-8%
In stages 1 and 2, 49% of women undergo BCS (lumpectomy and partial mastectomy) with RT. Also, about 12% of the women undergo BCS with no RT, 18% undergo mastectomy with no chemotherapy, and 16% undergo mastectomy with chemotherapy.
Stage 3 is crucial, where 56% of women undergo mastectomy with chemo and radiation therapy. Around 16% undergo BCS+RT, 12% undergo mastectomy with no chemotherapy, and 6% undergo only RT.
In stage 4, 56% of the women undergo chemotherapy, and RT and 26% do not respond to either RT or chemo. Only 2-3% of cases of BCS are successful.
Emerging Treatments For Breast Cancer
Immunotherapy is one of the emerging treatments for breast cancer. Although it hasn’t been approved by the FDA, it is still thought to be promising. Several independent clinical and preclinical studies suggest that it has fewer side effects as compared to chemotherapy and works by raising the body’s natural immune level to fight breast cancer.
It is the oncologist who will first determine the stage of breast cancer and then suggest treatments. Patients must not lose hope and fight till the end. Starting to have a healthy diet, reducing alcohol and switching to natural foods can work a long way in preventing breast cancer.
Conclusion: Hope and Support in Breast Cancer Treatment
Navigating breast cancer treatment can be overwhelming, but understanding the stages and corresponding therapies empowers patients to make informed decisions. Each stage of breast cancer presents unique challenges and treatment options, emphasising the importance of early detection and personalised care. As research progresses, emerging treatments like immunotherapy offer new hope, showcasing the dynamic nature of cancer treatment.
Choosing the right healthcare facility is crucial in this journey. Sahyadri Hospitals stands out as a leading provider of comprehensive cancer care. With a team of experienced oncologists, state-of-the-art technology, and a patient-centric approach, Sahyadri Hospitals offers tailored treatment plans that consider each patient’s unique needs. Our commitment to providing emotional and physical support throughout the treatment process ensures that patients never feel alone in their fight against cancer.
For more information on breast cancer treatments and how Sahyadri Hospitals can assist you, visitSahyadri Hospitals.
FAQ’s
What is the first stage of breast cancer treatment? The first stage, known as DCIS, typically involves lumpectomy or mastectomy, followed by radiation therapy to prevent the spread of cancer.
What are the survival rates for breast cancer? Survival rates vary by stage, with approximately 99% for stage 1, 93% for stage 2, 72% for stage 3, and 22% for stage 4.
What emerging treatments are available for breast cancer?
Immunotherapy is an emerging treatment showing promise, as it may have fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy and enhances the body’s immune response .
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