How to Explore Systemic Therapy for Breast Cancer Treatment

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast become malignant and develop into masses called tumors. When these malignant growths expand beyond the breasts, systemic treatment, which treats more of the body than just the breast tissue, is called for.

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Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Understand the difference between local and systemic therapy. For breast cancer patients whose cancer has not spread beyond the breasts, local therapy is often most appropriate. For those whose cancer has spread out into the whole body system, systemic therapy is more appropriate.
Step 2

Know that systemic therapy can include chemotherapy, hormonal therapy and other treatments. Prepare to have your energy level sapped. Try to keep up your spirits and your energy by planning quiet time. One cancer site recommends plenty of comedy movies and joke books.
Step 3

Ask your doctor which form of systemic therapy he wants to explore first and why. You have the right to understand all of your treatment options.
Step 4

Explore what you can do to augment your systemic therapy. Better diet and exercise habits are recommended by the American Cancer Society and maybe recommended by your physician.
Step 5

Explore pain management options that can help you with the after-effects of the therapy. Your doctor can offer some insight, but it's good to consult a pain specialist as well. Be sure your insurance covers the consultation first.
Step 6

Find a support group, even if you don't feel that you need one. These people will be able to understand exactly what you are going through.

Tips & Warnings

Ask your doctor why you need systemic therapy as opposed to a localized, breast-only treatment. Make sure you know what side effects to expect.
The United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) provides an informational document about how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies to cancer sufferers (see Resources below).
Connect with your hospital's breast cancer support group to meet others who can identify with your physical and emotional states as you cope with your illness. The American Cancer Society can also connect you to a group (see Resources below).

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