What are adjuvant therapies?

After surgical treatment of breast cancer, supplementary therapy is recommended in many cases. Adjuvant therapies are systemic or local treatments administered with the goal of reducing the risk of recurrence, eradicating any microscopic cancer cells that are undetectable by current examinations, and improving long-term prognosis.

The need for such treatment is not the same for all women. It depends on the stage of the disease, the biological characteristics of the tumor, and the individualized risk assessment. The final decision is always made in collaboration with the oncology team, through discussion and detailed counseling.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that acts throughout the body and targets rapidly dividing cancer cells. It is not necessary in all cases of breast cancer. It is recommended primarily when there is an increased risk of recurrence, when the tumor displays aggressive biological characteristics, when it does not express hormone receptors, or when there is lymph node involvement.

Today, chemotherapy is significantly better tolerated compared to the past, as it is accompanied by organized supportive care that limits adverse effects and allows the woman to maintain her daily routine as much as possible.

Endocrine Therapy

When the tumor is positive for hormone receptors (ER/PR), endocrine therapy is a fundamental component of treatment. Its goal is to inhibit the action of estrogen on cancer cells, thereby significantly reducing the risk of recurrence. It is typically administered for a period of 5 to 10 years and has been proven to provide substantial benefit in long-term outcomes.

Targeted Therapies

In tumors with HER2 overexpression, specific monoclonal antibodies are used that precisely target this molecule. Targeted therapies have fundamentally changed the prognosis of HER2-positive tumors, significantly increasing survival rates and providing more personalized and effective treatment.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is a local treatment that targets the breast area and/or the axilla. It is recommended almost always after breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy), while in selected cases it is also applied after mastectomy. Its purpose is to destroy any residual microscopic cancer cells, thereby reducing the risk of local recurrence.

The decision is personalized

Not all women require all therapies. Modern oncology is based on molecular analysis of the tumor, precise estimation of individual risk, and close collaboration among different specialties within the tumor board.

The goal is not “maximum” treatment, but the right treatment — the one that offers the greatest benefit with the least possible burden.

Every treatment recommendation is tailored to the uniqueness of each woman, with respect for her body, her daily life, and her personal priorities.