Breast Cancer Medical Oncology (Chemotherapy)
The following describes medical treatments for breast cancer. For specific information regarding your health care options, please contact your Hurley physician or medical professional.
Highly advanced treatment designed around you
For many patients diagnosed with breast cancer, treatment may include a range of medical oncology services, including chemotherapy. Your Hurley Medical Center oncologist will consult with you and your family to determine the most appropriate treatment for your individual situation.
Chemotherapy might be an option for you
Chemotherapy uses very strong drugs to destroy cancer cells. If your breast cancer has a high chance of spreading to another part of your body, your doctor may recommend chemotherapy to decrease this chance. This is known as adjuvant systemic chemotherapy. In some cases, this type of chemotherapy is given after surgery along with other targeted therapies to try to keep the cancer from coming back.
Chemotherapy is sometimes given before breast surgery in women with larger breast tumors. This is called preoperative or neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The goal is to shrink a tumor to a size that makes it easier to remove with surgery. This may also increase the chance of your cancer being cured.
Chemotherapy is also used in women whose cancer has already spread to other parts of the body. In these cases, chemotherapy may be recommended to try to control the cancer and to decrease symptoms the cancer is causing.
Chemotherapy side effects depend on the drugs you receive. Common side effects include hair loss, nausea, vomiting, fatigue and an increased risk of developing infection. Your medical treatment team will work with you to prevent and/or manage any side effects you may experience.
Hurley Breast Health Nurse Navigator
From diagnosis to treatment to long-term follow-up, Hurley Medical Center’s Breast Health Nurse Navigator helps breast cancer patients navigate the complicated and stressful world of breast cancer. Click here for more information about the Breast Health Nurse Navigator program at Hurley Medical Center. Read her blog.
