Skip to main content
OnkoVodič – Rak Dojke Srbija
OnkoVodičRak Dojke Srbija
Step 6

Treatment

Breast cancer treatment options
Treatment for early breast cancer may include , , , , and . All are performed at and health care facilities, except for oral hormonal therapy which is obtained by prescription at .
Biological (targeted) therapy

Therapy targeting specific receptors (e.g., ). Given intravenously or as subcutaneous injections. Often used together with or after it.

Surgery

Removal of the tumor ( or ). Often includes checking/removing axillary lymph nodes. Performed in hospital, with a stay of several days.

Chemotherapy

Medications that destroy cancer cells. Given in cycles every 2–3 weeks, usually for several months. Side effects: fatigue, nausea, hair loss – there are medications to alleviate these.

Hormonal therapy

For hormone-sensitive tumors ( and positive). Usually tablets (tamoxifen, aromatase inhibitors), taken for 5–10 years. Obtained by prescription at the health center.

Radiation

Radiotherapy is administered after surgery (especially with breast-conserving surgery). Lasts 3–6 weeks, daily on weekdays. Not painful, but can cause fatigue and skin redness.

Support during therapy
Psychological and nutritional support, counseling centers, and patient associations help in coping with therapy. Ask your doctor about available resources.

How long does treatment last?

Depending on the plan: surgery is completed quickly, but chemo/bio therapies last months, and hormonal therapy lasts years. The sequence depends on the decision.

Side effects – are they mandatory?

Not all patients experience the same . There are medications and support for nausea, pain, anemia, and fatigue. Ask your doctor to prepare a plan for alleviating symptoms in advance.

Can I work during therapy?

Sometimes yes, depending on the type and intensity of therapy. Many women take sick leave or reduce their working hours. It's important to listen to your body and not push yourself.

When to definitely inform the doctor?

  • High fever during chemotherapy (possible infection).
  • Difficulty breathing, severe chest pain, or difficulty swallowing.
  • Unexplained bleeding or bruising.
  • Severe redness/swelling at the radiation site or wound.

Why multiple therapies?

Treatment is often a combination – e.g., surgery + chemotherapy + hormonal therapy. The goal is to remove the tumor, destroy remaining cancer cells, and reduce the risk of disease recurrence.

What does daily life look like?

During therapy, it's normal to feel tired, but many women still carry out some of their activities. Support from loved ones, balanced nutrition, moderate physical activity, and conversations with a psychologist/psychotherapist or support group are helpful.

Patient rights

You have the right to information about therapy, the right to a second opinion, and the right to know all possible options. Oral hormonal therapy is available by prescription at primary health care.