There are many different treatment options available for breast cancer, and depending what stage of breast cancer your partner has depends on the type of treatment they will receive. Here are the main types of treatments used to for breast cancer and what they do.
Treatment options
Chemotherapy
A treatment with one or more anti-cancer (cytotoxic) drugs.
Reduces the risk of cancer coming back in the future
Chemotherapy drugs are usually given directly into the bloodstream through a drip
Chemotherapy doses are usually given every 3 weeks
Hormone therapy
Blocks the action of female hormones
Oestrogen can also encourage the growth of some breast cancers. This treatment blocks the production of oestrogen or stops it from signalling to breast cancer cells.
Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy uses high- energy x-rays to destroy cancer cells.
Reduces chances of cancer coming back
Usually happens after surgery and chemotherapy
Given externally, through the skin, using a large machine that emits radiation
Happens weekly for 3 consecutive weeks
Treatment support
Treatment is one of the most difficult stages. Your partner will be going through a lot of changes and experiencing different side- effects.
It is important that you are supported whilst supporting your loved one as they go through their treatment.
Talking
Having someone you trust and are comfortable with is effective in Helping you get through such a difficult stage
Helps you to feel supported, while you are supporting your loved one through their treatment
Support groups
There are support groups available in most areas, joining them will help you feel supported by speaking to people going through the same journey
Speaking with people who understand
Learning from other peoples experiences can give you hope
What you should know
Treatment is one of the most difficult stages. Your partner will be going through a lot of changes and experiencing different side- effects.
It is important that you are supported whilst supporting your loved one as they go through their treatment.
Benefits
Cancer is cured
Cancer is controlled
Cancer does not get worse
Cancer grows at a slower rate
Risk factors
Age
Alcohol consumption
Cancer-Causing Substances
Diet
Hormones
Obesity
Sunlight
Tobacco
Making the right decision?
Making such a serious decision is very daunting for your loved one. Here are some helpful ways you can assist your loved one in making their treatment decision.
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Practical tips
Gather all your information together
speak and consult your partner’s healthcare team
write a list of the pros and cons
Helping your partner
Give your partner a distraction, go out for a walk
Taking your minds of the decision you are facing can often help you both to come to a quicker conclusion
support their decision as this is final
Make a choice that is best for them