Addressing the Needs of Breast Cancer Survivors

Breast cancer survivors experience unique treatment-related side effects that have long-standing and life-altering implications. These remain a challenging aspect both in terms of diagnosis and management for these patients.

This article is a review of the latest key literature in the management of common side effects of treatment in breast cancer survivors namely infertility, vasomotor symptoms, sexual dysfunction, peripheral neuropathy, lymphedema, musculoskeletal symptoms, anthracycline-related cardiotoxicity, secondary malignancies, role of ctDNA, lifestyle modifications, strategies to maintain bone mineral density and addressing fear of cancer recurrence.

Recent research in the field has led to novel advancements for survivors planning a family, pharmacotherapeutic options for hot flashes, overcoming barriers such as adherence to therapy and management of long-term side effects, and a incorporating a multimodal approach to improve sexual health in women, neuropathy, musculoskeletal issues and lymphedema. There have been significant strides in the understanding and management of issues in breast cancer survivors. The increasing awareness and multimodal approach will continue to improve outcomes for survivors.