Adjuvant therapy for resectable breast cancer

The breast cancer mortality rate is falling, most likely because of a combination of early detection, refined surgical and radiation therapy techniques, and improved systemic therapy efficacy. The proper integration and application of these treatment modalities present evolving challenges for clinicians. Systemic therapy, in particular, is changing rapidly with the advent of new chemotherapy drugs, new classes of agents, and new therapeutic regimens. The most recent studies suggest that optimal outcomes are possible through the broad but appropriate use of hormone therapy and chemotherapy to prevent relapse and possibly prevent second primary tumors. The choice of therapy for patients remains a matter for careful consideration and discussion in each individual case.