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Breast cancer: an introduction to the problem
1Brown University School of Medicine, and The Breast Health Center, Women & Infants Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island 02905, USA. bcady@wihri.org
Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America
|March 15, 2002
Summary
Breast cancer treatment evolved significantly over decades, yet mortality rates remained stagnant for thirty years. This review examines various therapies, including hormonal manipulation, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and tamoxifen, highlighting treatment advancements in breast cancer care.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Medical History
Background:
- Breast cancer presented a persistent challenge throughout much of the 20th century.
- Despite advancements in diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, mortality rates remained largely unchanged from 1930 to 1960.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical landscape of breast cancer treatments.
- To discuss the evolution and application of various therapeutic modalities.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of historical breast cancer treatment strategies.
- Analysis of therapeutic interventions including hormonal manipulation, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy.
Main Results:
- Identified key treatment modalities employed over the last century.
- Highlighted the introduction and acceptance of tamoxifen as a postsurgical treatment.
Conclusions:
- The progression of breast cancer treatment involved diverse approaches.
- Tamoxifen emerged as a significant development in postsurgical breast cancer management.