In the fourth part of CURE’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month webinar series on managing the side effects of breast cancer treatment, we partnered with UCLA Health and Northside Hospital Cancer Institute to learn more about the side effects that can often occur in during breast cancer treatment.

In particular, I spoke with Patricia Jakel, of the Solid Tumor Program at UCLA Health in California, and Emily M. Beard, coordinator of the breast cancer and gynecologic oncology program at Northside Hospital Cancer Institute in Atlanta, to discuss the long and short- and long-term side effects of breast cancer treatment and strategies to minimize them.

Summary:

0:52 — Common side effects of breast cancer treatment

• Open and honest communication between patients and healthcare providers is essential to managing side effects and improving quality of life. Patients should feel comfortable discussing any concerns, no matter how minor they may seem.
• Healthcare providers should educate patients about the potential long-term side effects of treatment, such as joint pain and fatigue. Strategies for managing these side effects, including lifestyle changes and medications, should be discussed.
• A holistic approach to patient care should consider not only physical health but also emotional and psychological well-being. This includes addressing quality of life, sexual health and body image concerns.

8:23 — Profile of side effects by type of treatment

• Different types of treatment, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy and hormone therapy, can have different side effects, from acute symptoms such as nausea and hair loss to long-term effects such as fatigue and cardiovascular problems.
• Patients should feel comfortable discussing any concerns or side effects with their healthcare team. Prompt reporting of symptoms can help identify and manage potential complications.
• Regular follow-up care is essential to monitor for late-onset side effects and address any emerging health problems. This may involve consultations with several specialists, including surgeons, radiation oncologists and medical oncologists.

11:54 — Strategies to minimize side effects and improve quality of life

• Healthcare providers should prioritize understanding each patient’s unique needs and goals. This includes taking into account factors such as age, lifestyle and personal priorities.
• Effective communication between patients and healthcare providers is essential for managing side effects and optimizing treatment plans. Patients should feel empowered to ask questions and share concerns.
• Regular evaluations, including geriatric evaluations for older patients, can help identify potential complications and adjust treatment plans as needed.

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