Breast cancer. Challenge and responsibility

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Gynecology

Background:

• Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment have undergone dramatic changes over the past 25 years.
• Breast cancer is a prevalent disease with the second-highest mortality rate, posing challenges for obstetricians/gynecologists.
• Primary care physicians may not be fully aware of these recent advancements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the evolving landscape of breast cancer care.
• To define the appropriate role of obstetricians/gynecologists in breast cancer management.
• To recommend areas for future research relevant to the specialty.

Main Methods:

• Review of diagnostic and treatment advancements in breast cancer over the last quarter century.
• Emphasis on the role of surveillance, including history, physical examination, and diagnostic studies.
• Discussion of risk factors and treatment alternatives for patients.

Main Results:

• The practice of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment has changed significantly.
• Obstetricians/gynecologists are crucial in patient surveillance and education.
• The specialty's involvement in molecular genetics and hormone interactions is increasing.

Conclusions:

• Obstetricians/gynecologists should be aware of the dramatic changes in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.
• Their role encompasses surveillance, patient counseling on risk factors, and treatment options.
• Further basic research in genetic alterations and hormonal therapy is recommended for this specialty.