My Breakthrough
Secondary breast cancer
If breast cancer spreads from its original place in the breast to a different part, or parts, of the body, it is called secondary breast cancer. These new tumours are called metastases.
Once it has spread, breast cancer is not curable. But it can still be treated and controlled. Many women live with secondary breast cancer for a long time. They often work, look after their family, go on holiday, play sport - just like other people.
If you have secondary breast cancer, your cancer specialist will discuss what treatment is best for you. This will depend on how far the cancer has spread, where it has spread to, and what treatment you've had before. Other factors that your specialist will consider include:
Some women want to try every treatment they can. They may also want to take part in clinical trials of new treatments. Other women don't. Every cancer treatment has side effects, and some women are prepared to put up with these if there's a chance that the treatment will help them to live longer. Other women decide they've had enough treatment to get rid of their breast cancer, and prefer to have palliative care to relieve their symptoms, make them comfortable, and help them with any practical or emotional problems they are having.
There's no right or wrong way to deal with secondary breast cancer. It's something you'll probably want to talk about with your family and friends, as well as your cancer specialist. It's a very personal decision, and it's your choice.
If you have secondary breast cancer, your cancer specialist will discuss what treatment is best for you. This will depend on how far the cancer has spread, where it has spread to, and what treatment you've had before. Other factors that your specialist will consider include:
- What type of cancer cells you have and how sensitive they are likely to be to treatment.
- Your age.
- How well you are.
- How much more treatment you feel that you want to have.
Some women want to try every treatment they can. They may also want to take part in clinical trials of new treatments. Other women don't. Every cancer treatment has side effects, and some women are prepared to put up with these if there's a chance that the treatment will help them to live longer. Other women decide they've had enough treatment to get rid of their breast cancer, and prefer to have palliative care to relieve their symptoms, make them comfortable, and help them with any practical or emotional problems they are having.
There's no right or wrong way to deal with secondary breast cancer. It's something you'll probably want to talk about with your family and friends, as well as your cancer specialist. It's a very personal decision, and it's your choice.
Treatment options for secondary breast cancer
If you decide to have more treatment to control your breast cancer, you may be offered:
