Meet these innovative breakthroughs that seek to fight breast cancer
Early detection of breast cancer has advanced considerably in recent years . Fortunately, today the detection of this disease is not synonymous with a death sentence. Likewise, current treatments are not as aggressive as they used to be.
Here are 6 major advances that have been made against this cancer:
1.-Genetic tests. The risk of developing breast cancer is higher if a woman inherits a harmful mutation in the BRCA 1 or BRCA 2 genes. In case of having close relatives who suffered or suffer from this type of cancer, the risk is higher, therefore, they should undergo constant meetings. There is a study to identify if there is any abnormality in the mentioned genes.
2.-Mammographies in 3D. It consists of the extension of digital mammograms. The test involves compressing a breast while the machine takes low-dose x-rays. The shots are then stitched together to create a 3-D image. This allows to visualize risk areas in a clearer way, since the size, location and extension of the tumor can be appreciated. In addition, it can detect abnormalities that are not usually seen on digital mammograms.
3.-Hormonal therapy. Also known as hormone therapy or endocrine therapy . This therapy consists of slowing or stopping the growth of malignant and hormone-sensitive tumors. There are some tumors that use estrogen and progesterone to grow. Stopping the activity of the hormones mentioned above is likely to stop the cancer from growing. The drug Tamoxifen has remained the standard in this type of therapy. However, there are already other medications that can also help block estrogen receptors, allowing tumors to be deprived of their “fuel” which in this case is estrogen.
4.-Intraoperative radiation therapy. It is a treatment that replaces several weeks of radiotherapy with a single dose. This process is highly recommended because it does not cause any damage to the heart, lungs, and esophagus, which is a possible damage that occurs with whole breast radiation. This treatment is usually performed on people who cannot have the tumor removed.
5.-Integral and complementary medicine. This refers to having a plan of action supported by several specialists in various branches, this in order to complement the treatment that is indicated to the person. This provides greater strength and allows for customization of treatments. This option can include not only doctors, but also psychologists, nutritionists, among other specialists.
Targeted therapy. Chemotherapy and radiation are conventional treatments that attack not only diseased cells, but also healthy cells. This causes the famous side effects. Specialists are aware that not all cancerous tumors are the same, therefore, treatments should not be the same for everyone. This applies not only to breast cancer, but also to other types of cancer found in very specific areas. The success of the treatment lies in the fact that the damage done to healthy cells is minimal compared to other treatments.
As you can see, not everything related to breast cancer is negative, every day research is carried out to find better solutions and treatments that are not so aggressive for the person.