Role of Hormone Therapy in Breast Cancer Treatment

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among women worldwide. It is a cancer that develops in the cells of the breast. Early detection and treatment are crucial for a better outcome. In India, breast cancer treatment is widely available and includes surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, as well as hormone therapy and targeted therapy. However, the availability of advanced treatment options and trained medical personnel can vary depending on the region. It is important to raise awareness of breast cancer and the importance of early detection and treatment, as well as to improve access to affordable, high-quality breast cancer treatment in India.

HORMONE THERAPY FOR BREAST CANCER

Hormone therapy is a common treatment for breast cancer that is hormone receptor-positive, meaning the cancer cells have receptors for estrogen (group of hormones that are responsible for the development and maintenance of female secondary sexual characteristics, such as breast development, body fat distribution, and the regulation of the menstrual cycle) or progesterone (hormone that is produced primarily by the ovaries and the placenta during pregnancy. which plays a key role in preparing the uterus for pregnancy and maintaining pregnancy). Hormone therapy is widely available at top breast cancer hospitals in India, which provide world-class treatment options for breast cancer patients. These top breast cancer hospitals have a team of highly trained oncologists and state-of-the-art facilities to provide the best possible care. Hormone therapy is usually given in the form of Aromatase inhibitors and SERMs (Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators) such as Tamoxifen and it is used in combination (as maintenance therapy) with other treatments such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. 

TYPES OF HORMONE THERAPY FOR BREAST CANCER

There are several types of hormone therapy that are used to treat breast cancer. They are:

1. Aromatase inhibitors: These medications work by blocking the production of estrogen, which can slow or stop the growth of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. Aromatase inhibitors are typically used in postmenopausal women.
2. Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs): These medications, such as Tamoxifen, bind to the estrogen receptors on breast cancer cells, preventing estrogen from binding and slowing or stopping the growth of the cancer. Tamoxifen is usually taken orally for 5 to 10 years and can be used to treat both early-stage and advanced-stage breast cancer. It can also be used to reduce the risk of breast cancer in women who are at high risk for the disease. Other SERMs, such as raloxifene, have also been used to reduce the risk of breast cancer in high-risk women, but they are not commonly used for the treatment of breast cancer itself.
3. Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonists: These medications work by decreasing the production of estrogen by the ovaries. LHRH agonists are typically used in premenopausal women.
4. Fulvestrant: It is an estrogen receptor antagonist and it works by blocking the estrogen receptors on breast cancer cells, preventing the cancer cells from growing. It is used for postmenopausal women.
5. CDK4/6 inhibitors: These drugs target specific proteins that drive the growth of certain types of breast cancer, particularly those that are ER-positive and HER2-negative. They are used in combination with Aromatase inhibitors.

THE BEST TIME FOR HORMONE THERAPY

The best time for hormone therapy for breast cancer depends on the stage and type of the cancer, as well as the patient's individual circumstances. The best breast cancer specialists in India will be able to determine the most appropriate time for hormone therapy for each patient.

For early-stage breast cancer that is hormone receptor-positive, hormone therapy may be given after surgery (adjuvant therapy) to reduce the risk of recurrence. For advanced-stage breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body, hormone therapy may be given as part of the primary treatment to slow the growth of the cancer.

HORMONE THERAPY: DURATION OF TREATMENT

The duration of hormone therapy for breast cancer treatment can vary depending on the type of therapy and the stage of the cancer.

For adjuvant therapy, or treatment given after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence, the duration of hormone therapy is typically 5 to 10 years. For advanced-stage cancer, hormone therapy may be given for as long as it is effective in controlling the cancer's growth.

Aromatase inhibitors, a common type of hormone therapy for postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, are usually given for 5 to 10 years. SERMs (Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators) such as Tamoxifen, another common hormone therapy, is usually given for 5 years.

HORMONE THERAPY: BENEFITS

Benefits of hormone therapy for breast cancer include:

• It can slow or stop the growth of the tumor.
• It can help prevent the cancer from returning.
• It can be used in conjunction with other treatments.
• It can be used as maintenance therapy.

HORMONE THERAPY: SIDE EFFECTS

The side effects of hormone therapy for breast cancer can include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Vaginal dryness
• Fatigue
• Mood swings
• Weight gain or loss
• Loss of sexual desire
• Headaches
• Bone loss (osteoporosis)
• Blood clots
• Increased risk of heart disease
• Increased risk of endometrial cancer (if given in combination with progesterone)

Vanya Health is a leading medical tourism company in India, which provides high-quality, affordable healthcare services to international patients. We offer a wide range of treatments, including cancer treatments such as hormone therapy for breast cancer, and have a network of top-rated hospitals and experienced doctors. We also provide assistance with travel, accommodation, and other logistics. Vanya Health is dedicated to making medical tourism in India a seamless and comfortable experience for our patients.