Breast cancer treatments are tailored to address a woman's unique circumstances. According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), the course of treatment depends on:
· the stage of breast cancer
· the presence of estrogen and/or progesterone receptors
· the presence of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)
· the woman's overall health
· the size of the tumor relative to breast size
· whether the woman has gone through menopause
Given that the stage of breast cancer plays an important role in treatment planning, doctors may call for multiple tests to accurately identify how far the disease has progressed. Besides the initial biopsy of the tumor, tests may include:
· lymph node biopsy
· CT scan
· MRI
· bone scan
· PET scan
Along with the support of family and friends, women undergoing breast cancer treatment are surrounded by a treatment team which may include:
· surgeon
· medical oncologist
· radiation oncologist
· plastic or reconstructive surgeon
· oncology nurse
· physical therapist
· social worker
· registered dietitian
Women might talk to their treatment team about different treatment options and the benefits and drawbacks of each, side effects associated with different treatments, the ways in which treatment will effect everyday living, whether there are any appropriate clinical trials in which to participate, the cost of treatment and the extent to which health insurance will cover these costs, and how to best prepare for treatment.
The NCI strongly suggests that women get a second opinion before making any treatment decisions. NCI assures that most doctors encourage second opinions, and many health insurance companies at least partially cover the cost.
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