Advancements in breast cancer research, along with newer treatment options and early detection, contribute significantly to increased survival rates and an enhanced quality of life for patients.
Breast cancer is a diverse disease with various sub-types, each requiring a tailored treatment approach.
While a breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming for patients and their loved ones, early detection increases the chance of survival and, with advancements in medical procedures losing a breast through a mastectomy (removing all the breast tissue as well as some of the surrounding tissue) is not always necessary. Many tumours can now be removed by lumpectomy, removing only the tumour and a small area of the surrounding normal breast tissue. This procedure is generally followed by radiation. If the cancer affects a large area of the breast, a mastectomy may be needed but breast reconstruction can often be performed simultaneously, offering positive outcomes.
The East Rand Multi Specialist Oncology Board based at Life The Glynnview, adopts a holistic treatment approach. The multidisciplinary team, including oncologists, surgeons, reconstructive surgeons, radiologists, counselling services and pathology services, formulates treatment plans based on tumour specifics (type, stage, biological profile), patient factors (age, chronic diseases, preferences etc.) and international guidelines. This collaborative approach is aimed at reaching the best outcomes for each patient.
While 10% of breast cancer is genetic, there are many factors associated with an increased risk of breast cancer2. These include:
- Being female, though breast cancer may also be detected in men
- Age – risks increase with age
- History of breast conditions
- History of breast cancer – having cancer in one breast increases the chances of developing cancer in the other
- Exposure to radiation
- Obesity
- Beginning your menstrual period at an age younger than 12 years
- Beginning menopause at an age older than 45 years
- Having your first child after 30 years of age
- Never being pregnant
- Postmenopausal hormone treatment
- Drinking alcohol
Regular screening, including annual mammograms for women over 40 and monthly self-exams, is the best way to detect breast cancer early, allowing for timely treatment and improved outcomes.
Reach out to us at theglynnwood@lifehealthcare.co.za for more information about our oncology services.
Source:
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- https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/about/how-common-is-breast-cancer.html#:~:text=Trends%20in%20breast%20cancer%20deaths&text=The%20chance%20that%20a%20woman,down%20by%201%25%20per%20year.
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/breast-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20352470;
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4078652
