Long-Term Effects of Breast Cancer Therapy and Care: Calm after the Storm?

Breast cancer is still a lethal disease and the leading cause of death in women, undermining patients' survival and quality of life. Modern techniques of surgery and radiotherapy allow for the obtaining of good results in terms of survival, however they cause long-term side effects that persist over time, such as lymphedema and neuropathy. Similarly, the advent of new therapies such as endocrine therapy revolutionized breast cancer outcomes, but side effects are still present even in years of follow-up after cure. Besides the side effects of medical and surgical therapy, breast cancer is a real disruption in patients' lives considering quality of life-related aspects such as the distortion of body image, the psychological consequences of the diagnosis, and the impact on family dynamics. Therefore, the doctor-patient relationship is central to providing the best support both during treatment and afterwards. The aim of this review is to summarize the consequences of medical and surgical treatment on breast cancer patients and to emphasize the importance of early prevention of side effects to improve patients' quality of life.

Automated summary

Breast cancer is a lethal disease that leads to the death of women and has a significant impact on their survival and quality of life. Although modern surgical and radiotherapy techniques have improved survival rates, they also have long-term side effects such as lymphedema and neuropathy. New therapies have revolutionized breast cancer outcomes, but side effects persist even after years of treatment. In addition to medical and surgical side effects, breast cancer also affects patients' lives through body image distortion, psychological consequences, and impact on family dynamics. Therefore, the doctor-patient relationship is crucial in providing optimal support to patients.