Recurrent breast cancer: What you need to know

Verified by Dr. Nita S. Nair, Lead Consultant Breast Surgery, Apollo Cancer Centres, Navi Mumbai.

Breast cancer recurrence is when cancer comes back after successfully completing treatment. It can reappear locally, meaning in the same place as the original tumor, regionally, meaning in the nearby lymph nodes, or distant, meaning in other parts of the body.

How common is recurrent breast cancer in India?

The breast cancer recurrence rate in India is estimated to be around 20-30%, depending on a number of factors, including the stage of the cancer at diagnosis, the type of cancer, and the patient’s individual characteristics. The risk of recurrence depends on a number of factors, including the type and stage of the original cancer, the type of treatment received, and the patient’s age and overall health.

What are the symptoms of recurrent breast cancer?

The symptoms of recurrent breast cancer can vary depending on where the cancer recurs. Common symptoms include:

• A new lump or mass in the breast
• Swelling or thickening of the breast
• Changes in the skin of the breast, such as redness, dimpling, or puckering
• Nipple discharge
• Pain in the breast or underarm
• Shortness of breath
• Pain in abdomen
• Jaundice
• Bone pain
• Headache
• Seizures

How is recurrent breast cancer diagnosed?

If a woman experiences any of the symptoms listed above, she should see her doctor right away. The doctor will perform a physical exam and may order tests such as a mammogram, ultrasound, biopsy or PET scan or CT scan.

How is recurrent breast cancer treated?

The treatment for recurrent breast cancer depends on

• The site of recurrence
• Duration since last treatment
• Type of treatments received
• the patient’s overall health.

Common treatment options include:

• Radiation therapy to alleviate pain in the bone or target cancer cells in some parts of the body
• Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells throughout the body
• Hormone therapy to block the effects of hormones that can fuel cancer growth
• Targeted therapy drugs that attack specific cancer cells
• Surgery to remove the cancer

Living with recurrent breast cancer

Recurrent breast cancer can be a challenging diagnosis, but it is important to remember that there are many treatment options available and that many women can live long and fulfilling lives even after a recurrence.

Here are some tips for living with recurrent breast cancer:

• Prioritize your health.
• Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep are all important for your overall health and well-being.
• It is also important to manage stress levels, which can be difficult during this time. There are many different relaxation techniques that can help, such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing.

If you have been diagnosed with recurrent breast cancer, know that you are not alone. There are many resources available to help you through this difficult time.

Talk to our expert, Dr. Nita S. Nair, Lead Consultant Breast Surgery, Apollo Cancer Centres, Navi Mumbai for all queries related to breast and related diseases or disorders.

Call 022 6280 6280 for an appointment.