When your doctor tells you that your breast cancer has spread to other parts of your body ( advanced breast cancer ), you may be feeling scared, shocked, and have a lot of questions. It's normal to have questions like, "What will happen now?", "Will I get better?", "What should I do?". The most important thing at this time is to know that you are not alone and to have all the information you need to get through this journey. Your doctor is your best friend at this time. So, the next time you see your doctor, write down these questions on a piece of paper. This will give you a lot of strength.
Let's first understand: What happened to my cancer?
Before discussing treatment, you need to have a clear understanding of your condition. Don't be afraid to ask your doctor this question.
"Where in my body has my breast cancer spread?"
This question is very important because the location of the cancer (for example, liver, lungs, bones) will determine the best treatment for you. The word your doctor will use for this is metastasis. Don't be alarmed when you hear this. It means that cancer cells have spread from the breast to other parts of the body. Knowing this will help you and your doctor decide what your next steps are.
Let's know exactly about the treatment.
This is where the biggest questions in your mind lie. There is not one question here, but several questions to ask.
What treatment options do I have?
Simply put, the question is, "What can I do?" There are several treatments for advanced breast cancer. Your doctor will choose the most appropriate one based on the type of cancer you have, where it has spread, your age, and your overall health.
| Treatment method | Simply put... |
|---|---|
| Hormone Therapy | Hormones help some cancer cells grow. This treatment works by blocking the action of those hormones. |
| Chemotherapy | Powerful drugs that kill rapidly dividing cancer cells. These travel throughout the body. |
| Targeted Therapy | Drugs that target specific weak points in cancer cells, causing less damage to healthy cells. |
| Immunotherapy | A treatment that helps your own body's immune system fight cancer cells. |
| Radiation Therapy | Directing high-energy radiation to a specific area (e.g., a bone) where the cancer has spread to reduce pain or control the tumor. |
Ask your doctor about each of these treatments separately.
"What are the benefits and side effects of each of these treatments?"
"Which of these do you recommend is best for me? Why?"
These two questions are very important. Every treatment has its benefits and side effects. For example, chemotherapy can cause hair loss and vomiting. When you are aware of all these things in advance, it is easier to mentally prepare for them. Also, when you know why the doctor has chosen a particular treatment for you, you will feel more confident about it.
What to expect from treatment?
This is a very sensitive, but important question.
"What should I expect from these treatments? Can this cure the cancer completely, or is the goal to control it?"
In advanced cancer, the primary goal of treatment is often not to cure the cancer completely, but to control its growth, reduce symptoms, and give you the best possible quality of life . Having a clear understanding of this will help you stay mentally strong.
"How long does one treatment take?"
Knowing this will make it easier for you to plan your work and family affairs.
How do you know if the treatment is successful?
After starting treatment , we all want to know if it is working properly.
"What tests do I need to have? How will we know if the treatment is working?"
The doctor will use various things to monitor your condition.
- Blood Tests: Check for things like tumor markers.
- Scans: Do things like CT scans and PET scans to see if the size of the cancerous tumors has decreased.
- Your symptoms: Whether the pain and discomfort you feel has decreased is also an important measurement.
Also ask how often these tests are performed.
What can I do besides treatment?
There are things you can do yourself to strengthen your body and mind.
"What exercises, diets, and relaxation techniques will help me during treatment?"
Sometimes, things like light exercise, a nutritious diet, and meditation can help boost your energy and manage side effects. But it's important to talk to your doctor and get approval before doing anything.
"Are there any complementary or alternative therapies that can help with side effects? What are some things I should definitely avoid?"
This is a very important issue for us in Sri Lanka. Because many people may suggest various decoctions, oils, and home remedies (Sinhala medicine). While some things (e.g. acupuncture) may help with the pain, some things may conflict with the main treatment you are taking. Therefore, do not use anything extra without asking your doctor.
"What places and groups are there where I can get help and comfort during this difficult time?"
You don't have to go through this journey alone. Talking to others who are going through the same thing as you and getting counseling can be a great source of strength. Ask your doctor about this.
The future and other matters
In addition to treatment and health, there are also several practical issues.
"Will my insurance cover all of these treatment costs?"
"Are there any opportunities like clinical trials I should consider?"
A clinical trial is a test of a new treatment. It may be a good option for you. Although not all hospitals offer these, it's worth knowing about them.
I hope this list of questions will help you. Remember, it is your right to ask questions. Your doctor is there to help you. So don't be afraid to ask anything that comes to your mind.
Take-Home Message
- You are not alone: The emotions that come with a diagnosis like this are normal. Your family, friends, and medical team are with you.
- Ask questions: It's empowering to know more about your condition and treatment. Don't be afraid to ask your doctor questions.
- Write it down: Write down your questions before you go to see the doctor. That way, you won't forget anything.
- Take someone with you: If possible, take a family member or trusted friend with you to see the doctor. It's easier to understand things when two people are listening.
- Be careful with alternative treatments: Do not use any additional medicine, decoction, or herb without your doctor's approval. It can be dangerous.
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