Common Breast Cancer Treatments
When you’re diagnosed with breast cancer, your oncologist will discuss treatment options and lay out a plan. These are common treatments, according to the American Cancer Society.
Surgery
Typically, breast cancer treatment includes surgery to remove the tumor. It’s common to need more treatment, particularly if the cancer is in a later stage.
Radiation
Radiation uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. Doctors often use this treatment after a mastectomy or if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Chemotherapy
One of the better-known treatments, chemotherapy typically involves the patient taking anti-cancer drugs orally through an IV. Though it’s common, not all breast cancer patients will need it. It’s often given before surgery to shrink the tumor or to try to kill off any unseen cancer cells that spread or were left behind.
