MIAMI BEACH – Although many women with breast cancer who choose a mastectomy believe they will lower their risk for recurrence, compared with breast conservation therapy, physicians should counsel them about this misperception for most instances, Dr. Mike Dixon said in a video interview at the annual Miami Breast Cancer Conference.
Multiple factors suggest that the risk of cancer recurrence with breast conservation therapy have declined over time. When combined with advances in imaging and gains in systemic therapy and radiation therapy, offering women with early breast cancer a choice between mastectomy and breast conservation may no longer make sense, said Dr. Dixon, professor of surgery at the University of Edinburgh.
More favorable patient outcomes and lower overall costs also favor breast conservation therapy over mastectomy for most women, he explained.
The conference was held by Physicians’ Education Resource. Dr. Dixon has no relevant disclosures.