Health
What is the Treatment of Breast Cancer?
Last Updated on August 18, 2022 by Nurse Vicky
What is the Treatment of Breast Cancer?
If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, you are probably wondering:
what is the treatment? Well, you may have heard of chemotherapy, surgery, or adjuvant radiation therapy.
You may also have heard of Sentinel lymph node biopsy. However, you may be wondering: what is the best way to treat breast cancer?
In this article, we will take a look at these various types of treatment. Listed below are a few of the most common methods.
Adjuvant radiation therapy
Postoperative care for patients with breast cancer aims to prevent recurrence and kill the remaining cancer cells.
The remaining cancer cells are often undetectable by the surgeon but have the potential to grow over time.
Such treatment is called adjuvant therapy and may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, hormonal therapy, and/or hormone replacement therapy.
If your doctor thinks you are a candidate for adjuvant therapy, you should discuss the options with your surgeon.
When cancer spreads to lymph nodes, doctors may recommend radiation therapy.
In some cases, chemotherapy is given first and radiation therapy is given after surgery.
Patients who have undergone lumpectomy may not need radiation therapy.
Adjuvant radiation therapy is also recommended if the tumors are larger than the lymph node capsule or have spread to the skin.
Patients may be offered radiation therapy following chemotherapy as an alternative to mastectomy.
Patients who have undergone up-front surgery and have one to three pathologically positive nodes will generally benefit from adjuvant RT.
If this is the case, adjuvant RT may be an option. In these cases, a patient may receive BCS or mastectomy plus SLNB, or complete ALND.
This treatment strategy is often more effective than mastectomy alone. But the risks of radiation therapy cannot be ignored.
In the study described above, patients undergoing RNI were significantly more likely to achieve a complete response than patients with PCR.
In addition, RT was associated with reduced rates of first recurrence and death due to breast cancer.
However, despite the benefits of adjuvant RT, most patients were not treated using CT simulation, which could have helped physicians optimize the dose to the tumor while sparing the normal tissue.
Chemotherapy
Patients with breast cancer receive chemotherapy treatments to kill cancer cells.
Most of these drugs are given through a thin plastic tube that is inserted into the vein, but some are given by oral tablet.
Chemotherapy is usually administered in a hospital or day unit.
The patient will have a port placed into a vein in the arm or chest to receive chemotherapy drugs.
Chemotherapy is usually given over a period of a few sessions.
Chemotherapy is usually administered as a series of treatments followed by a period of rest.
During chemotherapy, drugs that attack cancer cells are used to shrink tumors. These drugs also affect healthy cells.
However, they recover. Chemotherapy is usually used for patients with cancer that is located within the breast, chest, and lymph glands.
However, it can be used for cancer cells that have spread to other parts of the body.
For example, chemotherapy can be used to treat aggressive cancer types.
Generally, chemotherapy is given in cycles. One treatment cycle lasts around two to three weeks, with a break of two or three weeks between cycles.
The number of treatments depends on the type of cancer and the individual’s health and other factors. Some types of chemotherapy are given once a week, while others are given on different days.
The frequency and dosage of these treatments may vary. For example, the chemotherapy drug gemcitabine may be given on days one, day eight, and day 15 of a 28-day cycle.
Chemotherapy is an effective way to fight breast cancer. It works by killing cancer cells while decreasing the number of cancer cells in the body.
This type of treatment is often combined with other methods to help the patient achieve a cure or improve their quality of life.
However, chemotherapy is only one treatment for cancer of the breast. The treatment must be carefully planned and monitored to ensure a good outcome.
Surgery
If cancer has spread outside the breast, surgeons may recommend surgery to remove it. Although surgery can remove cancer cells, microscopic cells may remain outside the breast.
Generally, patients undergo systemic treatment of medication after surgery to ensure that the cancer is completely removed.
In some cases, patients may require more than one surgery. The surgeon may recommend chemotherapy or radiation therapy in addition to surgery. The outcome of surgery is not always known until a biopsy is performed.
If the tumor is smaller, it may be possible to perform a partial or full mastectomy instead.
This type of surgery is also often more effective for people with triple-negative breast cancer, which has spread to lymph nodes. Some doctors may prescribe additional drugs, such as pembrolizumab and carboplatin.
These drugs can decrease the risk of cancer recurrence. Drug therapies can also be given after surgery to slow the growth of cancer.
Surgical oncologists may recommend a lumpectomy or a mastectomy. A mastectomy removes the entire breast, including the nipple area.
Radiation therapy may also be recommended, particularly for younger women or those with aggressive cancer.
A lumpectomy may also be referred to as a partial mastectomy, a quadrantectomy, or a segmental mastectomy.
Surgical oncologists may perform one or both of these procedures depending on the size and location of the tumor.
In addition to the breast tissue, surgeons may perform axillary lymph node dissection during surgery.
During this procedure, the surgeon will remove 10-20 lymph nodes under the arm. This procedure may lead to lymphedema.
If this is the case, patients should talk with their doctors about whether this surgery will be appropriate.
If the sentinel lymph nodes are not cancerous, they may not need further treatment in the axilla.
Sentinel lymph node biopsy
A sentinel lymph node biopsy is a surgical procedure in which a radioactive dye or other substance is injected into a lymph node.
The sentinel lymph node will then be removed by a surgeon. The nodes will be inspected by a pathologist for cancer cells.
Before the surgery, patients will be put under general anesthesia, which will keep them unconscious.
Once an anesthetic is administered, a camera will be used to take pictures of the area.
During the procedure, the doctor will use this to determine whether cancer cells are present in the node.
In order to determine if a sentinel node contains cancer cells, the surgeon will inject a blue dye or radioactive substance into the lymphatic system near the tumor.
Using a special probe, the surgeon will identify the sentinel node. The sentinel node is then sent to a pathologist for microscopic evaluation.
The pathologist will then determine if the sentinel lymph node contains cancer cells.
Surgical removal of multiple lymph nodes can result in harmful side effects.
In some cases, a sentinel lymph node biopsy can be sufficient for staging and preventing regional recurrence of breast cancer.
However, if a woman has no clinical evidence that her axillary lymph nodes have metastasis, a sentinel lymph node biopsy will be enough.
While the procedure is safe, there are some risks. The procedure can cause bruising, swelling, or pain. In addition, the dye can cause changes in a patient’s urine and skin color.
Although sentinel lymph node biopsy is not a common procedure, it is not without complications.
For example, it is very important to discuss these risks with your doctor before undergoing the procedure
immunotherapy,
While many cancers respond to immunotherapy, some don’t. Breast cancer tumors tend to have few immunological cells, resulting in a “cold” tumor.
Cancer immunotherapy drugs are designed to target these “cold” tumors.
According to a National Institutes of Health study, “classical immunological cold” cancers include most breast cancers, glioblastomas, ovarian cancer, and pancreatic tumors.”
One treatment method uses tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), which are white blood cells that fight infections and cancer.
Doctors choose these cells based on how well they recognize the “neoantigens” (specific proteins produced by cancer cells).
These immune cells are then introduced into a patient’s bloodstream as an IV drip. Patients may respond to several different types of immunotherapy treatments.
While the success rate of immunotherapy treatments is still low for patients with metastatic breast cancer, recent studies indicate that the therapy has a high chance of improving the survival rate for some cancers.
It has significantly improved the survival rates of patients with certain types of cancer.
It is still too early to know whether immunotherapy will improve survival rates in women with breast cancer. It is best to consult with a physician if you suspect you might benefit from immunotherapy.
While many cancer immunotherapy treatments are in clinical trials, the majority of patients will eventually have to discontinue immunotherapy treatment if they experience side effects. In severe cases, oral steroids or other immunosuppressive medications may be prescribed to reduce the patient’s immune response.
Immunotherapy may be used as part of chemotherapy for early-stage breast cancer patients, and as a preoperative treatment for triple-negative breast cancer.
In addition to undergoing chemotherapy, it may be used to treat various types of breast cancer.
FAQ
What are the symptoms of breast cancer?
Answer
The first symptom of breast cancer is a lump in your breast. This is the most common symptom and it can be caused by a number of different things, such as an infection or fibroadenoma.
The second symptom is nipple discharge. This might be clear or bloody and it could be coming from just one nipple or both nipples. It could also cause skin irritation around the nipple area.
The third symptom is changes in your skin, such as dimpling, puckering, redness, scaling or thickening of the skin on your breasts. These changes may indicate that there is something wrong with your breasts and should not be ignored since they could lead to more serious problems
How does breast cancer affect the body?
Breast cancer is a type of cancer that develops from breast tissue. It begins in the cells of the breast and can eventually spread to other parts of the body. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women. In 2018, there will be over 250,000 new cases in the United States alone.
Breast cancer does not only affect women; it also affects men, though much less often. The symptoms are different for each person and can depend on a number of factors such as age and family history.
The risk factors for breast cancer include being female, age (especially after 50), having a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, and certain inherited genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
Sometimes breast cancer spreads, or metastasizes, through the bloodstream to other parts of the body. It can lead to tumors in your brain, bones, liver, lung, and elsewhere. Complications may include blocked blood vessels, bone fractures, and pressure on the spinal cord.
What are the different types of breast cancer?
Breast cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the breast. There are different types of breast cancer, and they are classified by how quickly they grow and by what kind of cells the cancer starts in.
Tumors that start in the ducts (ductal carcinoma) tend to grow more slowly than those that start in other parts of the breast (invasive carcinoma). And tumors that start in lobules (lobular carcinoma) tend to grow more slowly than those that start in other parts of the breast (invasive carcinoma).
There are also different types of breast cancer depending on what kind of cells it starts from. The four main types are:
-
Ductal carcinoma in situ
-
Invasive ductal carcinoma
-
Inflammatory breast cancer
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Metastatic breast cancer.
Conclusion
Tell us anything you know about The Treatment of Breast Cancer.
Remember your health is wealth
Please, let us know your thoughts in the comment section.
Health
Protein-Infused Diet Coke: The Viral ‘Dirty Soda’ Trend Taking TikTok by Storm
Protein-Infused Diet Coke: The Viral ‘Dirty Soda’ Trend Taking TikTok by Storm
The rise of quirky, unconventional food and drink trends is a staple of social media, but one concoction that’s recently captured TikTok’s imagination is “Protein Diet Coke,” fondly referred to as a “dirty soda.”
Combining the classic fizz of Diet Coke with creamy protein shakes, this bizarre yet fascinating combination has gained traction for its unique taste, nutritional benefits, and shareable aesthetic appeal.
But is it more than just a passing fad? Let’s dive into why this drink has taken the internet by storm, the health implications, and how you can make your own.
What Is Protein Diet Coke?
Protein Diet Coke is a mashup of two popular beverages: Diet Coke, known for its zero-calorie allure, and protein shakes, a go-to choice for fitness enthusiasts.
By blending these seemingly unrelated drinks, you get a fizzy, creamy concoction that surprises the palate and offers a protein-packed twist.
This beverage has become a TikTok sensation, with videos showcasing creative ways to personalize the drink by experimenting with flavors, toppings, and presentation.
How Did Protein Diet Coke Become a Trend?
The trend began with users sharing videos of themselves trying the drink and reacting to its surprising taste.
The hashtag #ProteinDietCoke amassed millions of views as influencers and everyday users alike showcased their custom recipes. Social media thrives on novelty, and the odd pairing of soda and protein shake fits the bill perfectly.
Moreover, this trend reflects a broader shift toward incorporating fun into fitness and healthy eating. As people explore unique ways to stay healthy, Protein Diet Coke offers a mix of indulgence and nutrition.
Health Benefits of Protein Diet Coke
1. Boosts Protein Intake:
Protein is essential for muscle repair, weight management, and overall body function. By mixing Diet Coke with a protein shake, you create a delicious way to meet your daily protein goals.
2. Low-Calorie Alternative:
For those watching their calorie intake, using Diet Coke and low-sugar protein shakes keeps the drink guilt-free while satisfying cravings for something sweet and fizzy.
3. A Fun Recovery Drink:
The combination of carbonation and protein makes this drink a potential post-workout recovery option. While traditional recovery drinks are effective, Protein Diet Coke brings a fun twist to replenishing nutrients.
Possible Drawbacks of Protein Diet Coke
While this beverage has many enthusiasts, it’s not without its critics.
1. Artificial Sweeteners:
Diet Coke contains artificial sweeteners like aspartame, which some people prefer to avoid due to potential health concerns.
2. Unusual Flavor:
Not everyone loves the combination of cola and creamy textures. For some, it’s an acquired taste.
3. Limited Nutritional Value from Soda:
Though protein shakes provide nutrients, the soda itself doesn’t offer significant health benefits. Consuming it in moderation is key.
How to Make Protein Diet Coke at Home
Ingredients:
- 1 can of Diet Coke (12 oz)
- 1 scoop or 8 oz of your favorite protein shake (vanilla or caramel flavors work best)
- Ice cubes
- Optional: toppings like whipped cream, syrups, or fruit
Instructions:
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Pour the Diet Coke into the glass, leaving some space for the protein shake.
- Slowly add the protein shake to the Diet Coke. Stir gently to combine.
- Customize with toppings or syrups if desired.
- Enjoy immediately!
Why Do People Love It?
The allure of Protein Diet Coke lies in its unexpected combination and social media appeal.
The drink’s unique flavor profile intrigues people, while its aesthetic presentation makes it Instagram-worthy.
Additionally, it’s a fun way to consume protein without feeling like you’re drinking a traditional shake.
Creative Variations of Protein Diet Coke
1. Mocha Protein Soda:
Add a chocolate-flavored protein shake for a mocha-inspired treat.
2. Tropical Twist:
Use coconut-flavored protein powder and garnish with pineapple slices.
3. Spicy Cola Blend:
Mix in a dash of cinnamon or chili powder for a bold kick.
4. Vanilla Caramel Float:
Top with a dollop of whipped cream and caramel drizzle for an indulgent dessert-like drink.
Is Protein Diet Coke Here to Stay?
Trends often fade as quickly as they emerge, but Protein Diet Coke might have staying power due to its flexibility and nutritional appeal. As long as social media continues to celebrate creativity in the kitchen, this quirky beverage is likely to remain a go-to option for adventurous foodies.
Conclusion
Protein Diet Coke is more than just a viral sensation; it’s a testament to how creativity can turn everyday ingredients into something extraordinary.
While it may not replace traditional sources of protein or be everyone’s cup of tea (or soda), it has undeniably carved out a niche in the world of health-conscious indulgence.
Whether you’re in it for the taste, the health benefits, or the TikTok-worthy moments, this “dirty soda” trend is worth a try.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular Coke instead of Diet Coke?
Yes, but keep in mind that regular Coke has significantly more sugar and calories, which might defeat the purpose of a low-calorie drink.
2. What type of protein shake works best?
Vanilla and caramel protein shakes are popular choices because they complement the flavor of cola. However, feel free to experiment with other flavors.
3. Is Protein Diet Coke suitable for kids?
While it’s not inherently harmful, the caffeine content in Diet Coke might not be suitable for children. Opt for caffeine-free soda if making this for kids.
4. Can I make a vegan version?
Absolutely! Use plant-based protein shakes and ensure the soda is vegan-friendly.
5. How often can I drink Protein Diet Coke?
Like any treat, moderation is key. Consuming it occasionally as part of a balanced diet is perfectly fine.
References
Health
STI Epidemic: Decline in New Syphilis and Gonorrhea Cases in the US, CDC Reports
Health
Dave Coulier Opens Up About His Battle with Stage 3 Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
Dave Coulier Opens Up About His Battle with Stage 3 Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
A Beloved Star Faces a Serious Diagnosis
Dave Coulier, best known for his role as Joey Gladstone on the iconic sitcom Full House, has revealed a deeply personal health challenge.
The comedian and actor recently announced his diagnosis of Stage 3 Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, sparking widespread concern and support from fans worldwide.
Coulier’s bravery in sharing his journey sheds light on this complex form of cancer, its symptoms, treatment options, and the importance of early detection.
What is Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma?
Understanding the Disease
Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL) is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, which is an integral part of the body’s immune defense.
This form of lymphoma is distinct from Hodgkin’s lymphoma due to differences in the cancerous cells’ appearance and behavior.
- Lymphatic System’s Role: It helps fight infections and regulates fluid balance in the body.
- Lymphoma’s Impact: NHL occurs when lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) grow uncontrollably, leading to tumors.
Dave Coulier’s Journey: From Diagnosis to Awareness
The Diagnosis
Coulier disclosed that he had been feeling fatigued and unwell for several months before seeking medical advice.
A series of diagnostic tests, including a biopsy and imaging scans, confirmed the presence of Stage 3 Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.
How He Shared the News
In a heartfelt video shared with his fans, Coulier discussed his diagnosis candidly. The star emphasized the importance of listening to one’s body and seeking medical help when something feels off.
“I’ve always tried to make people laugh, but now, I want to use my voice to educate and inspire,” he said.
Symptoms of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
Recognizing the symptoms early can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes.
Some common symptoms include:
- Swollen lymph nodes, often painless
- Persistent fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fever and night sweats
- Abdominal pain or swelling
- Chest pain, coughing, or trouble breathing
Why Early Detection Matters
Coulier’s journey highlights the importance of not ignoring persistent symptoms. Timely diagnosis can improve treatment effectiveness and overall prognosis.
Stages of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
NHL is categorized into four stages based on its spread:
- Stage 1: Cancer is localized to one lymph node region.
- Stage 2: Two or more lymph node regions on the same side of the diaphragm are affected.
- Stage 3: Cancer involves lymph nodes on both sides of the diaphragm.
- Stage 4: The disease has spread beyond the lymphatic system to other organs.
Coulier’s diagnosis at Stage 3 underscores the critical need for awareness and early intervention.
Treatment Options for Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
Tailored Treatment Plans
The treatment for NHL varies depending on the stage and specific subtype.
Common approaches include:
- Chemotherapy: Often the first line of defense to target rapidly dividing cancer cells.
- Radiation Therapy: Used to shrink tumors in localized areas.
- Immunotherapy: Boosts the immune system’s ability to fight cancer.
- Targeted Therapy: Focuses on specific molecules involved in cancer growth.
Dave Coulier’s Treatment Regimen
While Coulier hasn’t shared detailed specifics about his treatment, he expressed gratitude for his medical team and the support of loved ones.
Living with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
Physical and Emotional Challenges
Coping with cancer involves more than just physical treatments. Patients often face emotional struggles, including anxiety, fear, and uncertainty.
Coulier’s Positive Outlook
Despite his diagnosis, Coulier remains optimistic, often sharing moments of humor and gratitude. His resilience inspires others battling similar challenges.
Raising Awareness for Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
The Power of Advocacy
Coulier is using his platform to spread awareness about NHL. His message encourages individuals to prioritize their health and support ongoing cancer research.
Supporting Research and Treatment Advances
Progress in lymphoma treatment, such as CAR T-cell therapy and advancements in immunotherapy, offers hope for patients worldwide.
How Fans Can Show Their Support
Messages of Encouragement
Fans have flooded social media with messages of love and encouragement for Coulier. Sharing personal stories of resilience and hope strengthens the community of those affected by lymphoma.
Donating to Lymphoma Research
Supporting organizations focused on lymphoma research and patient advocacy can make a significant impact.
Conclusion:
Dave Coulier’s openness about his battle with Stage 3 Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma reminds us of the importance of health awareness and community support. As he navigates this challenging chapter, his strength and advocacy serve as a beacon of hope for others facing similar battles.
FAQs
1. Can Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma be cured?
Yes, many cases of NHL can be treated effectively, especially when diagnosed early. Advanced treatments have improved survival rates significantly.
2. How does Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma differ from Hodgkin’s Lymphoma?
The primary difference lies in the specific type of cancerous cells. Hodgkin’s Lymphoma involves Reed-Sternberg cells, which are absent in NHL.
3. Are there lifestyle factors that increase the risk of NHL?
While the exact cause is unknown, factors like a weakened immune system, certain infections, and exposure to specific chemicals can increase risk.
4. What support resources are available for NHL patients?
Numerous organizations, such as the Lymphoma Research Foundation, offer resources, support groups, and financial assistance for patients and their families.
5. How can I reduce my risk of developing lymphoma?
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals, and addressing infections promptly can help lower your risk.
References:
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