While choosing a treatment, it is important to weigh the impact of the treatment you may have on your life versus what you want in your life. A reason why innovative advanced therapy options are increasingly becoming more popular is that they yield better results with fewer side effects.

Breast Cancer is a growing concern worldwide and its incidence in women increases with age. According to a WHO study, there were 2.3 million new cases in 2020, showcasing 11.7 per cent of all cancer case types. 

As per the Globocan data 2020, Breast cancer accounts for 10.6 per cent of all deaths related to cancer in India. In contrast to a few years ago, there are now multiple treatment modalities available for the management of breast cancer. 

With innovative treatments coming to the forefront, it is essential to consider the long-term value plan when choosing the right treatment option for oneself. Making it equally important for doctors to discuss and explain every avenue of treatment with their patients, which will not only help them live a longer life but also a better one.

Understanding the stage of cancer, the associated risk of relapse and the impact on one’s overall wellbeing must be a consideration while curating a treatment plan with your doctor. While discussing a plan of action, you will be introduced to several advanced treatments that go beyond traditional therapies like chemotherapy. 

It is vital to evaluate the risks, benefits, and potential side effects of the available treatments. This will help empower patients to analyze and choose the course of action that aligns best with their individual circumstances and preferences.

A breast cancer patient undergoes a combination of medical and surgical treatment. Medical treatment includes chemotherapy, radiation therapy, endocrine therapy, and advanced adjuvant therapies among others. 

Traditionally, chemotherapy has been employed as the initial line of defence post-surgery for patients diagnosed with breast cancer. A concern with traditional treatments like chemotherapy could attack the cells of the entire body. Therefore, while it may manage cancer, chemotherapy can also impact an individual's quality of life due to common side effects, which include nausea, infections, anaemia, hair loss, fatigue and recurrence.

On the other hand, we have recently witnessed the introduction of targeted advanced therapies. These are usually taken in combination with other treatments like endocrine therapies. While they are primarily employed as second or third-line treatment options, they can be employed much earlier in one’s treatment plan. Additionally, if the returned cancer is metastatic, these therapies can help breast cancer patients live a better quality of life.

While choosing a treatment, it is important to weigh the impact of the treatment you may have on your life versus what you want in your life. A reason why innovative advanced therapy options are increasingly becoming more popular is that they yield better results with fewer side effects. 

This type of therapy helps block the replication of cancer cells, preventing the formation of new ones. This significantly helps reduce the risk of recurrence while avoiding the side effects that come along with chemotherapy alone.

It can be daunting to make treatment decisions. However, collaborating closely with your healthcare team is key to decide on the best course of treatment that fits individual needs. With the right treatment plan, one can lead a fulfilling life even post diagnosis. No matter the decision, patients should prioritize their follow-up care. To have a best chance at reducing risk of recurrence, it is crucial to adhere to the treatment plan, as well as be consistent with prescribed care.