Beating breast cancer with personalised care

Mr Müller, what are the first signs of breast cancer?

Dr Dieter Müller: If a woman feels a change in her breast, if she notices pain, inflammation or skin retraction, she should have it checked out. It would be wrong to panic, because it doesn't always have to be breast cancer.

And if it is breast cancer?

A quick diagnosis is important. The patient should not remain in the dark for long. If breast cancer has been found, we will have a detailed discussion with the patient, including relatives.

So the relatives are heavily involved?

Absolutely. Partners or friends are already involved in the initial consultations after the diagnosis. The discussions can last up to two hours. The patient's medical consultant or the breast care nurse can also be present and exchange ideas with us.

Are there new treatment methods in addition to traditional therapies such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and hormone therapy?

In the field of chemotherapy, biochemically produced antibodies against certain types of breast cancer tumours are in the pipeline. Which therapy we propose to the patient is discussed and decided by a panel of specialists in the tumour board. All specialists contribute their specialism, which guarantees the best possible therapy.

Many women are afraid of side effects. And rightly so?

Yes, the fear is always there. Chemotherapy can lead to hair loss, weakening of the heart, tiredness or sensory disturbances. However, most side effects disappear after the treatment.

Do the vast majority of patients have to undergo surgery?

Yes, but there will be promising new drugs that may make surgery unnecessary in certain cases in the future. These are currently in the clinical trials phase. But: 70 to 80 per cent of patients keep their breasts. For the others, there are excellent reconstruction methods.

Ms Schnyder, you are a qualified nurse specialising in women with breast disease (Breast Care Nurse). When did you join the team?

Rita Schnyder: As a contact and reference person, I provide support throughout the entire care process, i.e. before, during and after hospitalisation. During the inpatient phase, I see the patients every day. After hospitalisation, the women concerned can take advantage of our counselling services for as long as they need them.

What are the women's biggest concerns?

There is a prevailing myth in society that "cancer means death". Nowadays, however, breast cancer patients have a good prognosis. Those affected often experience a great deal of psychological, emotional and social stress. Phases of fear, rejection, resignation, anger and powerlessness can alternate. At Bethesda, patients are also able to take advantage of psycho-oncological support.

What do patients particularly appreciate about your work?

We take enough time for the patients. We take their fears and worries seriously and respond to their questions and needs. Their concerns are, for example:

• How do I deal with my fears?
• What side effects do certain treatments have and what can I do about them?
• What alternative and complementary medical options are available?
• What cosmetic options can I use if I have to have all or part of my breast removed?

They also appreciate the fact that they always have the same contact person at their side: The attending doctor and the Breast Care Nurse.