Breast Cancer Therapies: An Overview of Emerging Treatment Approaches, Clinical Trials, and Comorbidity Management View PDF

Swarna Shree
Medicine, Meenakshi Medical College Hospital And Research Institute, Enathur, Tamil Nadu, India
^*Ishrath Fathima
Medicine, Shadan Institute Of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
Challaboina Lakshmi Chandana
Medicine, Davao Medical School Foundation Inc, Davao, Philippines
Sadhvika Jeripeti
Medicine, Mamata Academy Of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, Telangana, India

^*Corresponding Author:

Ishrath Fathima
Medicine, Shadan Institute Of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Published on: 2025-06-02

Abstract

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, with a significant burden on public health, accounting for a substantial number of diagnoses and deaths each year. The disease’s prevalence varies by geographical region, but it remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality, especially in women. Current treatment approaches for breast cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. These therapies have led to improved survival rates for many patients, particularly those with hormone receptor-positive (HR+) tumors. However, challenges persist, particularly for aggressive subtypes such as triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), which remain difficult to treat with conventional therapies. Clinical trials continue to explore novel agents and combination therapies to improve outcomes, with a focus on precision medicine and personalized treatment strategies that consider the tumor’s molecular profile. Furthermore, comorbidities play a critical role in the management of breast cancer, as underlying health conditions can significantly impact treatment effectiveness and patient outcomes. Conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and obesity are common in breast cancer patients and can complicate treatment regimens, leading to adverse reactions or the need for adjustments in therapy. Diabetes can alter drug metabolism, reducing the effectiveness of chemotherapy and endocrine therapies. Cardiovascular conditions can limit the use of certain chemotherapies that have cardiotoxic side effects. The presence of autoimmune diseases or chronic pain can also affect treatment adherence and patient quality of life. Integrating care for comorbidities alongside cancer treatment is essential to ensure optimal outcomes, reduce treatment-related risks, and enhance the overall well-being of breast cancer patients.

Keywords

Treatment approaches, Comorbidities, Clinical trials, Hormone therapy, Targeted therapies, Triple-negative breast cancer, Immunotherapy

Introduction

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer worldwide, with an estimated 2,296,840 women living with a breast cancer diagnosis as of 2022 (Figure 1) [1]. It accounted for 11.7% of all new cancer cases globally in the same year, making it the most frequently diagnosed cancer [1]. The incidence rate varies widely, with higher rates observed in developed regions such as North America, Western Europe, and Australia, where screening programs and longer life expectancy contribute to increased detection. For example, in North America, the incidence rate is around 89 per 100,000 women, while in lessdeveloped regions, such as sub-Saharan Africa, it is significantly lower, often below 40 per 100,000 women. However, these lower rates may reflect underdiagnosis and lack of access to healthcare rather than a true difference in disease burden [1].

Mortality from breast cancer remains a significant global concern, with an estimated 666,103 deaths worldwide in 2022 [1]. The mortality rate is disproportionately high in low- and middle-income countries, where survival outcomes are compromised by delayed diagnosis, limited access to effective treatments, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. For instance, while high-income countries have seen a steady decline in mortality rates due to early detection and advanced therapies, survival rates are much lower in regions like South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. Globally, the five-year relative survival rate for breast cancer ranges from over 90% in developed countries to less than 60% in some developing regions. Bridging this gap remains critical, requiring increased investment in early detection, equitable access to treatment, and public health awareness campaigns [1].