Refusing Hormone Therapy for Breast Cancer

If you’re diagnosed with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, then it’s likely that your doctor recommended you hormone therapy medicine, because it helps in reducing the risk of recurrence.

Well, hormone therapy can be one of the most effective tools we have in the treatment of hormone receptor breast cancer, but it can also be one of the most commonly refused treatments because of its side effects, fears, or any specific confusion about how it works.

So, if you’re thinking about refusing hormone therapy for breast cancer, then this article will clear all your doubts so that you can make an informed decision.

What Is Hormone Therapy in Breast Cancer?

Hormone therapy, also called endocrine therapy, is used to treat breast cancers that are sensitive to hormones like estrogen or progesterone. However, these cancers, labeled hormone receptor-positive, grow more rapidly in the presence of these natural body chemicals. However, these drugs are not chemotherapy, yet they do not kill cells outright, but over time, to prevent recurrence or slow tumor growth.

Why Some People Refuse Hormone Therapy

Here are some reasons why some people reduce hormone therapy, which include:

• Concerns about side effects

This is one of the most common reasons why some people refuse hormone therapy. Some risks, such as hot flashes, bone pains, fatigue, and osteoporosis, also increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

• Previous adverse reactions

Patients with a history of serious side effects, such as blood clots or stroke, might not be a candidate for hormone therapy or might decline in an attempt to avoid future complications.

• Difficulty affording treatment

Financial burden can also influence the decision. However, for some, the cost of long-term medication and associated medical appointments is not affordable, especially for patients without health insurance.

• Personal beliefs

Personal or cultural beliefs are a concern for some patients. However, some religions and cultures view hormone therapy as unnatural or against their beliefs.

• Coexisting health conditions

Pre-existing heart disease, osteoporosis, or mental challenges could pose additional risks, but hormone therapy can worsen these conditions.

Alternative Approaches to Hormone Therapy

There are no proven alternatives to hormone-blocking therapy, yet many women decline treatment. However, depending on the type and stage of your breast cancer, you may also be a candidate for these approaches:

• Surgery
• Chemotherapy
• Targeted therapies
• Radiation therapy

Furthermore, it's important to discuss all the options with your provider before declining, which route may be the best option.

What Are the Risks of Refusing Hormone Therapy for Breast Cancer?

Well, the decision to skip hormone therapy is a personal choice. However, it's important to know the potential consequences.

Here’s what studies say about whether you reduce hormone therapy for breast cancer:

• Patients with ER+ breast cancer who don’t take hormone therapy may likely have a higher risk of recurrence.
• If you refuse hormone therapy, then it may increase the risk of breast cancer.

However, there’s no treatment without side effects, so refusing hormone therapy for breast cancer can cause recurrence.

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