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From lowering the risk of reoccurrence to enhancing the quality of life and reducing disruptions in daily life, there is more to breast cancer treatment than just surviving.
The treatment and post-care landscape for early breast cancer is changing for the better.
When someone hears “early breast cancer”, the immediate reactions are often fear and uncertainty. Beyond the initial concern for the treatment, there are important questions about what life will look like during and after treatment, questions about energy, emotional strength, family life, and the risk of cancer coming back.
Fortunately, the landscape of early breast cancer is changing for the better. The focus is now shifting from controlling cancer in the short term to lowering the longer-term risk of recurrence while preserving long-term quality of life. This shift in focus has brought forward treatments that are more effective, more targeted, and better suited to supporting individuals in their day-to-day lives. Instead of intense, one-size-fits-all regimens, these therapies are personalised, designed to meet the needs of the individual and their unique treatment journey.
Dr Sewanti Limaye, Director of Medical & Precision Oncology and Director of Oncology Research, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital & Research Centre, said, “Early breast cancer refers to breast cancer that is detected in its nascent stages (0, 1, 2, or 3), before it has spread to other parts of the body. Early detection unlocks superior outcomes, but the post-diagnosis pathway demands equal resolve. While surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation wield formidable strength, targeted therapies and immunotherapies now revolutionise care—precisely dismantling cancer cells and unleashing the immune system against tumours. For patients and families, this heralds a future rooted in strength, armed with cutting-edge tools for sustained victory and vibrant quality of life.”
So, how exactly are advanced therapies improving life for people with early breast cancer?
Here are 5 key benefits that advanced therapies are providing to people with early breast cancer:
Lowering the risk of recurrence
Even after a successful treatment, the risk of recurrence remains a major concern, sometimes as high as 50%. Advanced therapies, such as targeted treatments and precision medicines, are designed to address this concern head-on. These therapies target cancer cells while sparing healthy ones, reducing side effects and increasing the overall effectiveness of the treatment. This precision not only improves survival rates but also provides peace of mind that the cancer is less likely to return.
Few disruptions to daily life
Advanced therapies are increasingly designed for convenience. From oral medications that can be taken at home, to less frequent clinic visits due to long-acting drugs, advanced therapy can be woven into regular routines. Many people can keep working, travel, or participate in family events without major interruptions.
Fostering emotional wellbeing
The emotional toll of any cancer diagnosis cannot be overstated, and advanced therapies are addressing this dimension more effectively than ever. With fewer side effects, as common as diarrhoea, fatigue, pain, etc, individuals undergoing treatment can feel more in control of their journey. By maintaining physical health, patients often experience fewer emotional lows, fostering a positive outlook that is critically important during recovery. Emotional resilience plays a role not just in treatment outcomes but in how patients envision life after cancer.
Support in long-term health monitoring
Advanced therapies often come paired with tailored follow-up care plans, including regular health monitoring. This helps patients detect any changes early, manage side effects proactively, and maintain overall wellness well beyond the initial treatment phase. This ongoing support fosters a sense of security and helps people feel cared for throughout their journey.
Enhanced quality of life
Treatment isn’t just about fighting the disease; it’s also about helping people return to their normal lives once it’s over. Newer therapies are designed to reduce long-term side effects, making it easier for patients to get back to their daily routines and enjoy life the way they want. Whether it’s minimising fatigue, supporting physical recovery, or even focusing on cosmetic elements like preserving hair, these advancements prioritise the overall well-being of patients. By focusing on the whole person, these treatments help individuals recover with confidence and live life on their own terms.
In India, where access to care and awareness are still growing, it’s vital to shift the conversation towards not just survival but survivorship. Long-term care, emotional health, and quality of life must be prioritised alongside treatment success. If you or a loved one is navigating early breast cancer, you should not hesitate to ask questions like, “What are my advanced treatment options?”
February 25, 2026, 12:15 IST
