Metastatic breast cancer, also referred to as stage IV or advanced breast cancer, is a stage where cancer cells have spread beyond the breast and axillary (underarm) lymph nodes into other regions of the body. Common sites for breast cancer metastasis include the bones, brain, lungs, and liver. However, it's essential to note that even when breast cancer progresses to these other regions, it is still identified and treated as breast cancer.
An estimated 6% to 10% of new breast cancer cases are initially staged as metastatic, and an estimated 20% to 30% of women diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer will eventually develop metastatic disease. Metastatic breast cancer is prevalent but not often understood well by the general public. It is particularly complex to treat, because despite significant improvements in the treatment of early-stage breast diseases, advancements in the treatment of metastatic breast cancer have been slower, often involving systemic therapies such as chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or therapy targeting the HER2 protein in breast cancer cells.
Symptoms of metastatic breast cancer differ depending on where and how far the cancer has spread. Bone metastasis, for example, can lead to intense pain in the bones or fractures. Lung metastasis might induce persistent coughing or difficulty in breathing, while brain metastasis typically results in persistent headaches, seizures, and fatigue among other symptoms.
Managing metastatic breast cancer is, however, not solely about treating the illness. It’s about attending to the whole individual. This involves recognizing and addressing the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects associated with the disease. Many women with metastatic breast cancer continue to lead fulfilling lives for many years. Continuous advancements in treatment options are progressively improving survival rates while enhancing the quality of life for women living with the disease.
Alleviating the burden of metastatic breast cancer involves different stakeholders: including, but not limited to, patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, researchers, policy-makers, and the pharmaceutical industry. It is important that these groups come together to advocate for more research, contemporary and personalized treatments, as well as access to psychosocial support and palliative care services. The needs of women with metastatic breast cancer should take center stage, and their voice must be heard in all debates around the disease.
In conclusion, metastatic breast cancer is a complex and deeply personal journey. Central to this journey is the ongoing need for patient-specific therapies, compassionate care, continuous education about the disease, and psychological support. In carrying out these actions, we must never cease in our determination to advance in the fight against this formidable opponent.