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.