Hormone therapy for breast cancer
At Birmingham Breast Clinic, we’re dedicated to offering you the most effective treatments for breast cancer in a supportive and caring environment. Hormone therapy is a highly effective treatment for certain types of breast cancer, particularly those that are hormone receptor-positive. By targeting the hormones that fuel the growth of these cancers, hormone therapy can help reduce the risk of recurrence and improve long-term outcomes.
What is hormone therapy?
Hormone therapy, also known as endocrine therapy, is a treatment that targets the hormones your body produces, such as oestrogen and progesterone, which can promote the growth of some breast cancers. This therapy works by either lowering the levels of these hormones in your body or blocking their effects on breast cancer cells. It is commonly used to treat hormone receptor-positive breast cancers, which make up the majority of breast cancer cases.
Hormone therapy is not the same as hormone replacement therapy (HRT). While HRT increases hormone levels to manage menopause symptoms, hormone therapy for breast cancer reduces or blocks hormones to slow or stop cancer growth.
How does hormone therapy work?
Hormone therapy works by interfering with the effects of hormones on breast cancer cells. This can be achieved in several ways:
- Blocking hormone receptors: Medications like tamoxifen block oestrogen receptors on cancer cells, preventing oestrogen from fuelling their growth.
- Lowering hormone levels: Aromatase inhibitors such as letrozole, anastrozole, and exemestane reduce the amount of oestrogen your body produces, particularly in postmenopausal women.
- Stopping hormone production: Ovarian suppression treatments, such as injections or surgery to remove the ovaries, can stop the production of oestrogen in premenopausal women.
Your doctor will recommend the type of hormone therapy that’s most suitable for your individual needs, based on factors like your menopausal status and the specific characteristics of your cancer.
When is hormone therapy used?
Hormone therapy is commonly used at various stages of breast cancer treatment, including:
- After surgery: To reduce the risk of cancer coming back (adjuvant therapy).
- Before surgery: To shrink the tumour and make it easier to remove (neoadjuvant therapy).
- For advanced breast cancer: To slow the growth of cancer that has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic breast cancer).
This treatment is usually taken as a daily tablet for several years, depending on your treatment plan.
What to expect during hormone therapy
Hormone therapy is a straightforward and non-invasive treatment, typically involving daily tablets. During your treatment:
- Initial consultation: Your doctor will explain how hormone therapy works, its benefits, and any potential side effects.
- Personalised plan: You’ll receive a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs, including regular follow-ups to monitor your progress.
- Ongoing support: You’ll have access to our team for any questions or concerns throughout your treatment journey.
Managing side effects
Hormone therapy is generally well-tolerated, but like any treatment, it can cause side effects. Common side effects include:
- Hot flushes and night sweats
- Joint or muscle pain
- Fatigue
- Mood changes
- Changes in bone density (in postmenopausal women taking aromatase inhibitors)
Our team will work with you to manage these side effects, offering practical advice and supportive care to help you feel as comfortable as possible.
Why choose Birmingham Breast Clinic?
At Birmingham Breast Clinic, we understand that every patient’s journey is unique. Here’s why patients trust us for their care:
- Specialist expertise: Our experienced team specialises in hormone therapy and other treatments for breast cancer, ensuring you receive the most effective care available.
- Personalised care: Your treatment plan will be tailored to your specific diagnosis, health, and preferences.
- Comprehensive support: From diagnosis to treatment and follow-up, we’re with you every step of the way, offering guidance and emotional support.
- Cutting-edge treatments: We stay at the forefront of breast cancer care, providing the latest therapies to give you the best possible outcomes.
Contact us
If you’re considering hormone therapy or want to learn more about your treatment options, we’re here to help. Contact Birmingham Breast Clinic today to book a consultation.
We’re dedicated to providing you with expert, compassionate care to help you navigate your treatment journey with confidence and hope for the future.
