Why does breast cancer need chemotherapy

Breast cancer chemotherapy is aimed at eliminating circulating tumor cells in the blood and reducing the risk of recurrence and metastasis.

1. Systemic characteristics of breast cancer: Although breast cancer mainly manifests as local lumps, it is actually a systemic disease. That is to say, tumor cells not only exist in breast tissue, but may also have spread throughout the body through blood circulation. This systemic characteristic makes it impossible for surgery alone to completely solve the problem.

2. Limitations of surgery: Surgery can effectively remove breast lumps, but it does not guarantee the complete elimination of all cancer cells. Especially for invasive breast cancer, tumor cells may have spread to other parts of the breast. Residual cancer cells after surgery may cause recurrence or metastasis in the future.

3. The role of chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment method that aims to eliminate circulating tumor cells in the blood through the action of drugs. Chemotherapy drugs can reach all parts of the body through the blood, thereby effectively killing cancer cells that may have spread. This systemic treatment method can complement the deficiencies of surgery and further reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and metastasis.

4. Reduce the risk of recurrence and metastasis: One of the main goals of chemotherapy is to reduce the risk of recurrence and metastasis of breast cancer. By eliminating circulating tumor cells in the blood, chemotherapy can significantly reduce the possibility of cancer cells forming new masses in other organs. This is of great significance for improving the long-term survival rate and quality of life of patients.

5. Improve the quality of life: Although chemotherapy may bring some side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, hair loss, etc., in the long run, it has a positive impact on the patient's quality of life. By reducing the risk of recurrence and metastasis, chemotherapy can help patients stay healthy longer and enjoy a higher quality of life.

6. Personalized treatment plan: The situation of each breast cancer patient is different, and the doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan based on the specific condition. The type, dosage and course of chemotherapy will be adjusted according to the patient's specific situation to achieve the best treatment effect. Personalized treatment plans can maximize the treatment effect and reduce side effects.

7. Psychological support and care: During chemotherapy, patients need not only physical treatment but also psychological support. The care of family and friends, professional psychological counseling, and a positive attitude all play an important role in the patient's recovery. Maintaining a good mental state can help patients better cope with the challenges brought by chemotherapy.

Chemotherapy for breast cancer is not only to eliminate local tumors, but also to eliminate circulating tumor cells in the blood, reduce the risk of recurrence and metastasis, and thus improve the patient's quality of life. Through personalized treatment plans and comprehensive psychological support, patients can better cope with the challenges of breast cancer and enjoy a higher quality of life.