Breast cancer: testing and treatment | NHS

Breast cancer testing and treatment at the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom is patient-centered, reflecting the commitment to provide high-quality healthcare to all residents. Here's an overview of breast cancer testing and treatment within the NHS:

1. Screening and Early Detection:

• Breast Screening Program: The NHS offers a national breast screening program for women aged 50 to 70 (with plans to extend to women aged 47 to 73) that provides routine mammograms every three years. This program helps detect breast cancer at an early, more treatable stage.

2. Diagnosis:

• Clinical Assessment: If breast abnormalities are detected during screening or if a woman experiences symptoms such as a breast lump or changes, she can seek a clinical assessment. This includes physical examinations, imaging (mammography, ultrasound), and biopsies to determine the nature of the abnormality.

3. Treatment:

• Multidisciplinary Approach: Treatment planning involves a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and nurses, to tailor the approach to each patient's specific case.
• Surgery: Surgical options include lumpectomy (removing the tumor and surrounding tissue) or mastectomy (removing the entire breast). Some patients may also undergo lymph node removal.
• Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy may follow surgery to target any remaining cancer cells in the breast area.
• Chemotherapy and Hormone Therapy: Depending on cancer type and stage, chemotherapy or hormone therapy may be recommended to eliminate cancer cells or reduce the risk of recurrence.
• Targeted Therapies: Some patients benefit from targeted therapies, such as HER2-targeted drugs like Herceptin, for specific types of breast cancer.
• Breast Reconstruction: The NHS offers breast reconstruction surgery for patients who have undergone mastectomy.
• Follow-up Care: After treatment, regular check-ups and monitoring are provided to ensure ongoing health and address any potential concerns.

4. Support and Care:

• Psychological Support: Emotional support is an integral part of breast cancer care, with counseling services and support groups available.
• Palliative Care: For patients with advanced cancer, palliative care services focus on pain management and improving quality of life.

The NHS strives to provide equitable access to breast cancer testing and treatment, and in many cases, there are no out-of-pocket costs for patients. Timely diagnosis and evidence-based treatments are central to the NHS's commitment to improving breast cancer outcomes and enhancing the overall well-being of patients facing this challenging diagnosis.

Breast Cancer: Testing and Treatment | NHS

Understanding Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a significant health concern, being one of the most common cancers in the United Kingdom. It develops from breast tissue and can affect both men and women, although it is much more common in women. Early detection through testing is crucial for successful treatment and management of the disease.

Testing for Breast Cancer

The NHS provides several methods for detecting breast cancer. The most common screening tool is the mammogram, an X-ray of the breast used to find early signs of cancer. Women between the ages of 50 and 71 are invited for a mammogram every three years as part of the NHS Breast Screening Programme. For those under 50 or at higher risk, additional tests such as ultrasound, MRI, and genetic testing may be recommended.

It is also important for individuals to perform regular self-examinations and report any changes in their breasts to a GP. Early signs could include lumps, changes in size or shape, skin dimpling, or nipple discharge. Prompt reporting can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.

Treatment Options

The treatment plan for breast cancer depends on the stage and type of cancer as well as the patient's overall health and preferences. Common treatments include:

• Surgery: Options can range from a lumpectomy, which removes the cancerous tissue, to a mastectomy, which removes the entire breast.
• Radiotherapy: Uses controlled doses of radiation to kill cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
• Chemotherapy: Involves using drugs to destroy cancer cells. It is often used before surgery to shrink tumors or after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells.
• Hormone Therapy: For hormone receptor-positive breast cancers, treatments like tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors can help block the effects of hormones that promote cancer growth.
• Targeted Therapy: These drugs target specific characteristics of cancer cells, such as a protein that allows cancer cells to grow in a rapid or abnormal way. HER2-positive breast cancers can be treated with drugs like trastuzumab (Herceptin).

Support and Resources

The NHS provides comprehensive support for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, including access to specialist breast care nurses, counselling, and support groups. Patients are also encouraged to utilize resources provided by cancer charities and organisations such as Breast Cancer Now and Macmillan Cancer Support.

For more detailed information and assistance, visiting the NHS website or consulting with your GP can provide additional guidance tailored to your individual needs.