Early and accurate treatment could save lives
By Puteri Syafeeqa | July 28th, 2025
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide. It happens when cells in the breast grow uncontrollably and form a tumour. The good news is that with advances in medical science, many breast cancers can be treated effectively, especially when detected early.
Main Types of Breast Cancer Treatment
1. Surgery
Surgery is often the first step to remove the cancer from the breast. There are two main types:
Lumpectomy (Breast-Conserving Surgery): Only the tumour and a small margin of healthy tissue around it are removed. The rest of the breast remains. This is often followed by radiation therapy.
Mastectomy: Removal of the entire breast. Sometimes nearby lymph nodes under the arm are removed too. This may be recommended if the tumour is large or if there are multiple areas of cancer. Modern surgical techniques aim to remove the cancer while preserving as much normal breast tissue and appearance as possible.
2. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells left behind after surgery. It is most commonly used after lumpectomy to reduce the risk of cancer returning in the breast. Sometimes, radiation is used after mastectomy if there is a higher chance of recurrence.
Radiation sessions are usually done daily for about 3 to 6 weeks. The treatment is painless, but some patients may experience skin redness or fatigue.
3. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves medicines that travel through the bloodstream to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It can be given before surgery to shrink the tumour and make surgery easier and after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells and lower the risk of recurrence.
Some breast cancers need hormones like estrogen or progesterone to grow. Hormone therapy blocks these hormones or lowers their levels in the body to slow or stop cancer growth. It is usually given as pills or injections for several years after surgery or chemotherapy.
Hormone therapy can cause side effects such as hot flashes, joint pain, or bone thinning, but it is often very effective for hormone receptor-positive breast cancers.
What to Expect During Treatment
Regular Visits: You will have frequent checkups with the doctor to monitor your response and manage side effects.
Side Effects: Each treatment has different side effects, but doctors work hard to reduce discomfort and maintain your quality of life.
Emotional Support: Breast cancer treatment can be emotionally challenging. Support groups, counselling, and loved ones can help you through this time.
Tips for Patients During Treatment
· Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and attend all appointments
· Eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated to support healing.
· Rest when you feel tired but stay lightly active, if possible, to improve strength and mood.
· Speak openly with your healthcare team about any symptoms or concerns.
· Lean on friends, family, or support groups for emotional care.
The Importance of Early Detection
The best chance for successful treatment is early diagnosis. Regular breast self-exams, mammograms, and checkups help find cancer before it spreads. If you notice changes in your breasts like lumps, pain, or skin changes see a doctor right away.
Conclusion
Breast cancer treatment today offers many effective options, and most patients live full, healthy lives after treatment. The right plan depends on your unique case, and your doctor will guide you every step of the way.
