On the occasion of World Breast Cancer Day, Dr. Aureli Torné Bladé, Head of the Gynecologic Oncology Unit at the Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Associate Medical Professor in the area of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Barcelona and academic of the Reial Acadèmia de Medicina de Catalunya, answers about the challenges in addressing this pathology, the impact of new technologies on its diagnosis, the importance of prevention and the value of communication when we refer to breast cancer.
In the field of scientific research, at what stage are we in the fight against breast cancer?
The field of breast cancer research is dynamic and constantly evolving, with many ongoing studies that promise to continue improving survival rates and the quality of life of patients. The most notable aspects are: 1) early detection thanks to screening programs where imaging techniques continue to improve their ability to detect tumors at very early stages whose prognosis is excellent; 2) more personalized and targeted treatments, thanks to biomarkers and genetic tests that make it possible to design specific treatments adapted to each type of tumor, improving efficacy and reducing side effects; 3) new treatments such as immunotherapy which is based on using the immune system to fight the tumor and has proven to be effective in a subgroup of tumors with a worse prognosis; 4) improving equity in breast cancer treatment ensuring that all patients, regardless of their geographical location or socioeconomic characteristics, have access to detection, diagnosis and treatment.
What challenges still lie ahead?
Although significant progress has been made in the treatment and understanding of breast cancer, important challenges still remain in the fight against this disease, some of which are: 1) better understanding the resistance to treatment that some tumors develop; 2) continuing to investigate why some tumors present metastasis and relapses after successful treatment and in some cases these are more aggressive and more resistant to previous treatments; 3) developing less toxic treatments, with fewer side effects and that impact by improving the quality of life of patients; 4) continuing to advance in personalized medicine to better predict which treatments will work and for which patients, based on the genetics and specific biology of the tumor.
How are new technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) impacting the diagnosis and therapeutic approach to this disease?
New technologies, and especially artificial intelligence, are radically improving the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer in several ways. Artificial intelligence can analyze images with a level of detail that surpasses human capacity, which will improve the accuracy of mammograms and other imaging tests, and therefore can increase their sensitivity and promote the early detection of lesions. Its ability to analyze data from different patients, including information on all biological, clinical and treatment response variables, can help identify which treatments will be most effective for a specific patient. In short, artificial intelligence can support clinical decisions by integrating and analyzing large volumes of medical information, from clinical protocols to the latest research and clinical trial data, facilitating the physician’s access to relevant and updated information in real time.
A healthy lifestyle, to what extent does it help prevent breast cancer?
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential in cancer prevention in general and also in breast cancer. For example, there is solid evidence that associates overweight and obesity with a higher risk of breast cancer and especially after menopause since adipose tissue increases the level of estrogens and promotes inflammatory activity. Alcohol consumption is also clearly linked to an increase in the risk of breast cancer, which is why it is recommended to limit its intake or avoid it completely. Regarding regular physical activity, numerous studies have shown that it can reduce the risk as it also helps to maintain a healthy weight, reduces inflammation and improves hormonal regulation. In short, implementing a healthy lifestyle, although it does not guarantee the prevention of breast cancer, can significantly decrease the risk.
What role does communication play in addressing the disease?
Communication plays a fundamental role in addressing breast cancer, impacting in multiple aspects. It is important to educate the public and for this reason well-designed public health campaigns can increase awareness and motivate women to participate in screening programs or adopt healthier lifestyles. In addition, communication in the care of breast cancer patients is essential to ensure that they understand their disease, the diagnostic and treatment options, understanding the benefits and risks of each option and facilitating their informed decision-making. Empathic communication and psychological support are fundamental for patients and their families as it helps them cope with the stress, fear and uncertainty associated with the disease.
A hopeful message for patients and families.
All the advances in research and treatments we have referred to bring us closer to a future in which breast cancer is becoming a completely manageable condition with continuous and progressive improvements in all areas (detection, diagnosis, treatment) which are reflected in excellent results and herald a hopeful future for patients and their families.