Lumpectomy, Radiation Combo Proves Beneficial

It is estimated that one in eight American women will develop breast cancer over the course of their lifetimes. This disease will strike an estimated 246,600 Americans in 2016 alone. Treating the disease effectively, while preserving appearance have long been concerns for physicians and patients alike. The results of a 10-year study offer a strong ray of hope on this front.

The study looked at the effectiveness of employing breast-conserving therapy, which involves a lumpectomy along with radiation. These two steps are performed instead of traditional mastectomies, which call for the complete removal of breast tissue. What researchers found was that the relative risk of death after 10 years was actually lower for those who had BCT instead of mastectomy alone. That study has been backed up by other observational studies that showed similar results at the 5-year postsurgical mark.

Whether the lumpectomy and radiation option is one that is viable for an individual woman’s treatment or not does hinge on a few important factors, researchers stress. The stage of cancer, the size of the tumor and the anticipated aggressiveness of the disease all play roles in the potential outcome of BCT treatments. Women with advanced forms of the disease or large tumors may find that mastectomies and other related treatments offer them the best chance of survival.

Women who are diagnosed with breast cancer should play an active role in determining their course of treatment. To make informed decisions about all treatment options, it is recommended women have open conversations with their healthcare providers that touch on such topics as the cancer stage, the doctor’s recommended course of treatment, the potential side effects of each proposed treatment and the likely success rate of the treatments. BCT may be an option in some cases, but it is important to remember that not all women will benefit from it. Should complete mastectomy be recommended, reconstructive options after treatment are available.

Receiving a positive diagnosis of breast cancer can be a very scary time for a woman. It is important, however, that women work with their doctors to determine the best treatment plan for the individual case. When it’s feasible, BCT may provide women the success desired without causing dramatic changes in appearance.

Breast cancer, like many forms of the disease, is much easier to treat when caught in its earliest stages. With that in mind, it is also imperative for women to discuss early screening with their doctors.

About Author

Choice Cancer Care is an independent, physician-owned cancer center network. Dr. Gregory Echt, a radiation oncologist with over two decades of experience, is the founder of Choice Cancer Care. Choice Cancer Care is among the busiest practices in the country for brachytherapy, or prostate seed implant therapy – a cancer treatment plan for prostate cancer that provides remarkable success rates and fewer life-limiting side effects.