Breast cancer is the top form of cancer among women in Singapore. It is an emotionally and physically draining experience for those affected, but fortunately, there are many options for breast cancer treatment in Singapore.
From traditional treatments such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy to newer methods like targeted therapy and immunotherapy, patients can choose the best approach that suits their needs.
This article will discuss the various types of treatments, exploring their benefits and limitations.
6 Types of Breast Cancer Treatment in Singapore
Surgery:
Surgery is one of the major treatments for breast cancer and has been used by doctors in Singapore to fight this deadly disease for decades. A surgical procedure often involves removing the tumor and some of the tissue around it, which can be done through open or laparoscopic surgery.
It is important to note that choosing to receive breast cancer treatment in Singapore will depend largely on an individual’s medical history and their doctor’s recommendation.
Different types of surgeries are available depending on each person’s individual needs some may require a mastectomy while others could only require a lumpectomy or even sentinel lymph node biopsy if deemed necessary by a doctor.
Radiation:
Radiation is one of the most common methods used to treat breast cancer in Singapore. Radiation therapy works by targeting high-energy beams at the affected area, killing any remaining cancer cells after surgery and reducing the chances of a relapse.
It is also used to reduce pain from metastatic lesions or to shrink tumors before surgery. During radiation treatment, patients will typically receive doses five times a week for about four to six weeks.
The whole process usually takes up to two months depending on the size and severity of the tumor. Patients may experience fatigue and skin irritation during treatment, but these side effects can be managed with medication prescribed by their doctor.
In addition, many medical centers provide counseling services for patients undergoing radiation therapy as well as other types of breast cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and hormone therapy.
Hormone Therapy:
One type of treatment, which is gaining popularity among female patients, is hormone therapy. This therapy uses drugs that target certain hormones, depending on the type and stage of breast cancer being treated.
It is used to reduce the risk of a recurrence or spread of the disease, and can also be used as part of an overall treatment plan for early-stage cancers. Hormone therapy works by inhibiting the production or action of hormones like estrogen and progesterone that can promote tumor growth.
It may also be used to block receptors on cells that allow such hormones to stimulate cell division. This helps slow down or stop tumor growth before it spreads further into other parts of the body.
Chemotherapy:
Chemotherapy involves using drugs to destroy cancer cells, and it is a very effective form of Breast Cancer Treatment for many patients. It can be used alone or combined with other treatments, depending on the individual’s condition and needs.
Chemotherapy works by blocking the growth of cancer cells and destroying them through a series of high doses of specific medications. The drugs circulate throughout the body in order to target any remaining cancer cells that have not been removed through surgery or radiation therapy.
It also helps reduce symptoms associated with advanced stages of breast cancer such as pain and swelling. In addition, chemotherapy can reduce the risk of recurrence or spread to other parts of the body if administered correctly.
Targeted Therapy:
Targeted therapy refers to treatments that target specific molecules within a cell or tumor to disrupt their growth and development. This type of treatment works by blocking signals sent out from cancer cells, thus stopping them from growing or spreading further.
As such, targeted therapy can be highly effective at treating not only early-stage breast cancers but also more advanced stages while minimizing side effects associated with other forms of treatment.
Immunotherapy:
Immunotherapy is one type of treatment that is gaining ground. This is a form of treatment that uses the body’s own immune system to fight off disease and reduce symptoms associated with breast cancer.
It works by stimulating the body’s natural defense mechanisms to destroy or slow down the growth of tumors. The immunotherapy approach may be used alone or in combination with other treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Generally, immunotherapy treatments are non-invasive and have fewer side effects compared to traditional methods like surgery and chemotherapy. They also offer greater precision in targeting the specific areas affected by cancer cells.
Final Thoughts
It is important to understand the various types of breast cancer treatment in Singapore. While some treatment options may be more effective than others, each type of treatment has its own benefits and side effects.
As such, it is critical for individuals to speak with their doctor or healthcare provider about which option may best suit them and their individual needs.