How effective is hormone therapy for breast cancer?

Breast cancer cells are tested for hormone receptors. If receptors are present, medicines may reduce stimulation from oestrogen or progesterone. Treatment may be offered after surgery to lower the chance of cancer returning, before other treatment in selected situations, or for cancer that has spread. It does not work in the same way for every breast cancer, and a receptor result is only one part of the assessment.

Options can include tablets or injections, depending on whether you have gone through menopause and on your wider health. Doctors weigh expected benefit against effects such as hot flushes, changes in bleeding, joint discomfort or bone thinning.

Ask which hormone receptors were found, what the treatment is intended to achieve, and how long it is planned for. Tell the oncology team about medicines, contraception, menstrual changes, bone problems and any history of blood clots. Take the medicine as prescribed; do not stop it because of side effects without discussing an adjustment or another option.

Contact your team promptly for heavy or unexpected bleeding, new severe leg swelling or pain, chest pain, sudden breathlessness, or a severe headache with weakness or vision change. Report troublesome hot flushes, mood changes, vaginal symptoms or persistent joint pain as well, because supportive treatment may help.

Are my tumour cells hormone-receptor positive? What benefit is expected from this treatment for my situation? Which side effects need urgent attention? How will my bones, menstrual symptoms or other risks be monitored?