Treating Primary Breast Cancer

Contents

• Introduction
• What is breast cancer?
• The aim of treatment
• Decisions about treatment
• Treatment for primary breast cancer
• Wellbeing and practical support
• Finishing treatment
• Further support

Introduction

This booklet provides an overview of the treatments for invasive primary breast cancer. It includes information on treatment options, side effects, and support services available.

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer starts when cells in the breast divide and grow uncontrollably. It can be non-invasive (in situ) or invasive. Invasive breast cancer has the potential to spread to other parts of the body.

The aim of treatment

The aim of treatment is to remove all the cancer in the breast and any affected lymph nodes under the arm (local control) and to destroy any cancer cells that may have already spread (systemic treatment). Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, and bisphosphonates.

Decisions about treatment

Your treatment team will consider various factors, such as the size and location of the cancer, the type and grade of the cancer, and whether it has spread to lymph nodes. They will also consider your age and general health.

Treatment for primary breast cancer

Treatment options include:

• Surgery: Breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) or mastectomy.
• Chemotherapy: To reduce the risk of cancer returning or spreading.
• Radiotherapy: To destroy any remaining cancer cells after surgery.
• Hormone therapy: For oestrogen receptor positive breast cancer.
• Targeted therapy: For HER2 positive breast cancer.
• Bisphosphonates: To reduce the risk of cancer spreading in postmenopausal women.

Wellbeing and practical support

Support services are available for emotional, dietary, and physical activity needs. Complementary therapies can be used alongside conventional treatments.

Finishing treatment

After treatment, you may continue to be monitored through follow-up appointments. Support services and resources are available to help you move forward.

Further support

Breast Cancer Now offers a helpline, online forum, and other support services to help you navigate your journey with breast cancer.

For more detailed information, visit breastcancernow.org.