Radiation therapy is applicable to all stages of breast cancer. Radiation treatment for cancer can be a valuable tool in a patient’s treatment process. However, proton therapy is a variation of radiation therapy and can prove to be beneficial to a patient’s recovery process. Advanced cancer treatment options may include proton therapy due to its unique feature that allows it to decrease radiation to nearby tissues.
Decrease Radiation to Heart and Lungs
Unfortunately, breast cancer treatment can involve damaging side effects due to the amount of radiation absorbed from traditional treatment. This includes heart disease or secondary cancer. Proton cancer treatment therapy works as one of the best advanced cancer treatment options because it is more targeted in its approach. This means less radiation exposure will occur to the surrounding tissues and organs, helping to prevent further disease or decreased function.
Proton Therapy for Breast Cancer Care
Advanced cancer treatment options for breast cancer typically include radiation therapy even after a patient has undergone a mastectomy. Radiation therapy, including proton therapy, helps to reduce the risk that the breast cancer will reappear by targeting specific areas. However, if the cancer is located in the left breast there is a higher chance that the heart will receive radiation. Proton therapy works differently by allowing a professional physician to adjust the depth level of the radiation.
Decreased Side Effects
Since proton therapy is able to be focused on a certain location, there is less risk for potential side effects and complications associated with treatment. Proton therapy for breast cancer allows the patient to have less side effects associated with the lungs, heart, and lymph nodes. Proton therapy typically will cease at the target site, minimizing the damage to surrounding tissues.
Although proton therapy will help all those who need breast cancer treatment, there are some who many benefit more. This includes those who have left-sided breast cancers. This is due to proton therapy being able to have its depth adjusted to minimize damage to the heart. Patients who have previously had chest radiation may also benefit more. Radiating parts of the body more than once can lead to an increased risk of complications. A professional physician will be able to guide you during this process and discuss more on how proton therapy is one of the best advanced cancer treatment options.