What is the most common treatment for breast cancer?

There is no single treatment for breast cancer, as different types are usually treated with a combination of approaches. Surgery is often the first step, either a lumpectomy, which removes the tumour and some surrounding tissue, or a mastectomy, which removes the whole breast. Depending on the case, this may be combined with radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapies or immunotherapy.

How is breast cancer treated at different stages?

Treatment for breast cancer depends on its stage. For stage 0 and stage 1 it typically involves surgery, radiation therapy especially after a lumpectomy, and possibly hormone therapy if the cancer is hormone-receptor-positive, while stage 2 may also include chemotherapy. As the cancer progresses to stages 3 and 4, treatment usually becomes more aggressive and may combine surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, targeted therapies and immunotherapy.

How long does breast cancer treatment last?

The length of breast cancer treatment varies with the type of therapy. Chemotherapy typically lasts 3 to 6 months with cycles every few weeks, and radiation therapy usually spans 3 to 7 weeks with short daily sessions, while surgery itself takes hours but recovery can take weeks to months. Immunotherapy and targeted therapy are often given over months or years, so overall treatment combining several approaches can last from several months to years.

How do genetic mutations affect breast cancer treatment?

Genetic mutations, such as those in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, can influence a breast cancer treatment plan. These genes normally help repair DNA, and a mutation significantly increases the risk of breast or ovarian cancer. Someone with a mutation might opt for more extensive surgery, may respond better to certain targeted therapies such as PARP inhibitors, and may be advised to start screening earlier or have it more frequently.

Is there a single best treatment for breast cancer?

There is no single best treatment for breast cancer, as the most suitable plan depends on the stage and type of the cancer, your overall health, your personal preferences and any genetic factors. An oncologist works with each patient to create a personalised treatment plan. The aim is to give the best chance of beating the cancer while considering quality of life.

Can men get breast cancer?

Men can develop breast cancer, although it is rare, with less than 1% of breast cancer cases occurring in males. It is nonetheless a serious condition that deserves greater awareness. Because it is uncommon and less talked about, men are often diagnosed at a later stage than women.

What are the signs of breast cancer in men?

The symptoms of breast cancer in men are similar to those in women. Early signs include a lump or thickening in the breast tissue, changes in the skin around the breast such as dimpling, puckering or redness, and nipple changes such as redness, scaling or discharge. Nipple inversion, where the nipple turns inward, is another warning sign, and any such change should prompt a visit to the doctor.

How is breast cancer in men diagnosed?

Diagnosing breast cancer in men usually involves a three-step process. A healthcare provider first performs a physical examination of the chest and breast area, then imaging tests such as a mammogram or ultrasound may be ordered to look more closely at the breast tissue. If an abnormality is found, a biopsy is carried out, removing a small tissue sample for examination under a microscope.

Breast cancer in Switzerland: book an appointment online

Dr. med. Barbara Fleischer

OB-GYN (obstetrician-gynecologist)

Arzthaus Zürich Enge
Bederstrasse 4
8002 Zürich

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Breast cancer in Switzerland: book today an appointment online

What is the most common treatment for breast cancer?

How is breast cancer treated at different stages?

How long does breast cancer treatment last?

How do genetic mutations affect breast cancer treatment?

Is there a single best treatment for breast cancer?

Can men get breast cancer?

What are the signs of breast cancer in men?

How is breast cancer in men diagnosed?

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