Breast cancer, one of the most common cancers among women, has seen significant advancements in its treatment over recent years. At the forefront of these developments, the best breast cancer hospitals in Mumbai like sunrise oncology center offer cutting-edge therapies, guided by highly experienced breast cancer specialists in Mumbai. In this article, we explore new treatments that are revolutionizing breast cancer care.
New treatments for breast cancer guided by breast cancer specialists in Mumbai:
- Understanding breast cancer: Breast cancer originates in the breast cells and can spread to other parts of the body if not treated early. While traditional treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation have been effective, they often come with severe side effects and long recovery periods. Fortunately, new treatments are emerging, offering hope for better outcomes with fewer side effects.
- Targeted therapy: One of the most promising advancements in breast cancer treatment is targeted therapy. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which affects all rapidly dividing cells, targeted therapy zeroes in on specific molecules involved in cancer cell growth and survival. This precision reduces damage to normal cells, resulting in fewer side effects.
- HER2-targeted therapy: HER2-positive breast cancer, characterized by an overexpression of the HER2 protein, responds well to targeted therapies like trastuzumab and pertuzumab. These drugs block the HER2 protein’s signals that promote cancer cell growth, significantly improving survival rates.
- Immunotherapy: This treatment harnesses the body’s immune system to fight cancer. Recent studies have shown promising results in treating triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) – a particularly aggressive form of the disease. Drugs like pembrolizumab and atezolizumab are now being used to enhance the immune system’s ability to target and destroy cancer cells.
- Hormone therapy: Hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, which grows in response to hormones like estrogen and progesterone, can be effectively treated with hormone therapy. New drugs, such as CDK4/6 inhibitors (palbociclib, ribociclib, abemaciclib), have shown great efficacy in slowing down cancer progression when combined with hormone therapy.
- PARP inhibitors: For patients with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, PARP inhibitors like olaparib and talazoparib have emerged as effective treatment options. These drugs interfere with cancer cells’ DNA repair mechanisms, leading to cell death and reducing tumor growth.
- Advanced radiation techniques: Radiation therapy, a staple in breast cancer treatment, has also seen advancements. Techniques like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and proton therapy allow for more precise targeting of tumors, sparing surrounding healthy tissue and minimizing side effects.
- Liquid biopsies: Detecting cancer recurrence or progression early is crucial for effective treatment. Liquid biopsies, which analyze circulating tumor DNA in the blood, offer a non-invasive method for monitoring breast cancer. This technology helps in tailoring personalized treatment plans and adjusting therapies as needed.
- Clinical trials & research: The best breast cancer centres are often at the forefront of clinical trials, providing patients access to the latest experimental treatments. Participation in clinical trials not only offers hope for patients but also contributes to the broader understanding and advancement of breast cancer treatment.
- Holistic and Supportive Care: Beyond medical treatments, a comprehensive approach to breast cancer care includes psychological support, nutrition counselling, and physical therapy. The best breast cancer hospital in Mumbai emphasizes holistic care, ensuring that patients receive support for their emotional and physical well-being throughout their treatment journey.
- Genomic testing: Genomic testing analyzes the genetic makeup of a patient’s cancer, allowing for personalized treatment plans. Tests like Oncotype DX and MammaPrint provide valuable information about the likelihood of cancer recurrence and the potential benefit of chemotherapy, helping doctors make informed decisions about treatment options.
- Cryoablation: Cryoablation, a technique that uses extreme cold to destroy cancer cells, is gaining traction as a minimally invasive treatment for early-stage breast cancer. This procedure can be performed under local anesthesia and offers a quicker recovery time compared to traditional surgery.
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT): Photodynamic therapy involves using light-sensitive drugs and a light source to destroy cancer cells. This treatment is particularly useful for patients with early-stage or localized breast cancer and has shown promising results with minimal side effects.
- Artificial intelligence (AI) in diagnosis & treatment: The integration of artificial intelligence in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is transforming patient care. AI algorithms can analyze mammograms and other imaging studies with high accuracy, aiding in early detection. Additionally, AI is being used to develop personalized treatment plans based on vast datasets of patient outcomes.
The landscape of breast cancer treatment is rapidly evolving, offering new hope to patients worldwide. With the best breast cancer hospital in Mumbai leading the charge, and expert breast cancer specialists in Mumbai dedicated to providing the highest standard of care, patients have access to the latest treatments and technologies. These advancements not only improve survival rates but also enhance the quality of life for breast cancer patients.