The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 279 No 7471 p357-360
29 September 2007

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Treatment of early breast cancer

In a second article on breast cancer, Sandra Melville and Lucy Heycock give an insight into the use of chemotherapy, hormonal therapy and the monoclonal antibody trastuzumab, and describe how these fit in to an overall breast cancer treatment plan

Continuing professional development articles

Breast cancer series

SUMMARY

Although the incidence of breast cancer is increasing, screening programmes and developments in pharmacological therapies have caused mortality rates to drop.

In cancer centres, pharmacists are becoming key players in the management of breast cancer patients, with an increasing number undertaking prescribing roles.

However, by being aware of the challenges that these patients face, and having an understanding of the mechanisms underlying the toxicities associated with treatment, community pharmacists can offer a valuable, proactive and much needed service.

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