Breast Cancer Treatment: Hormone Therapy Explained Hormone therapy is one of the key treatment options for breast cancer, especially for tumors that are sensitive to hormones like estrogen or progesterone. While not suitable for all types of breast cancer, it plays a significant role in reducing the risk of recurrence and supporting long - t erm recovery in many patients. This blog explores how hormone therapy works, who it's for, and what to expect during treatment — helping those affected make informed choices alongside their healthcare team. What Is Hormone - Receptor - Positive Breast Cancer? Some types of breast cancer cells grow in response to hormones, especially estrogen. These are known as hormone - receptor - positive breast cancers. During diagnosis, lab tests determine if the cancer cells have receptors for estrogen (ER - positive), progester one (PR - positive), or both. If hormone receptors are present, it means hormone therapy could be effective in slowing or stopping cancer growth. How Hormone Therapy Works Hormone therapy doesn’t work by killing cancer cells directly. Instead, it interfere s with the body’s ability to produce or respond to hormones that promote tumor growth. There are two main ways this is done: • Blocking hormone receptors: Drugs like tamoxifen attach to hormone receptors on cancer cells, preventing estrogen from activating them. • Lowering hormone levels: Drugs called aromatase inhibitors (such as anastrozole or letrozole) reduce the amount of estrogen the body produces, espe cially in postmenopausal women. In some cases, ovarian suppression is also used, particularly in younger women. This can be achieved through medication or surgery to stop hormone production at the source. When Is Hormone Therapy Used? Hormone therapy may be used at different stages of treatment: • Adjuvant therapy: After surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy, to reduce the risk of recurrence. • Neoadjuvant therapy: Before surgery, to shrink tumors and make them easier to remove. • For advanced or metastatic breast cancer: To manage the disease and slow its progression. The duration of hormone therapy can range from 5 to 10 years, depending on the risk factors and type of hormone therapy used. Potential Side Effects As hormone therapy alters the body’s natural hormone balance, it may lead to side effects. Common ones include: • Hot flushes • Mood changes • Fatigue • Bone thinning • Joint pain • Changes in menstrual cycles (in pre menopausal women) Although these side effects can affect quality of life, they are often manageable. Doctors will regularly monitor patients to assess response to treatment and manage any issues that arise. Why It Matters Hormone therapy has significantly improved survival rates for those with hormone - receptor - positive breast cancer. By continuing treatment over several years, the risk of cancer returning can be greatly reduced. Patients are typically supported by a multidisciplinary care team , including oncologists, nurses, and sometimes endocrinologists, to ensure the therapy is appropriate and well - tolerated. Conclusion Hormone therapy remains an important part of breast cancer treatment for many individuals. While it may not be the right choice for every type of breast cancer, it has proven benefits for those with hormone - receptor - positive tumors. Understanding how it works, what to expect, and how to manage its effects can help individuals take an active role in their treatment jour ney.