Chronic breast cancer
Introduction
Chronic breast cancer is a term used when breast cancer can no longer be cured but can be kept under control for a long time. For many people, this feels like living somewhere between being sick and going about their daily lives. The disease is present, but not always at the forefront. At Mauro Medical Specialists, we help you understand what chronic breast cancer means and provide you with personalized support in coping with this long-term situation, in addition to the care you receive at the hospital.
What is meant by chronic breast cancer?
Chronic breast cancer usually refers to metastatic breast cancer that remains stable with treatment. The cancer has not disappeared, but it is not growing, or is growing only very little.
Thanks to modern treatments such as hormone therapy, targeted therapy, and sometimes immunotherapy, many people can live with breast cancer as a chronic condition for years. The focus is shifting from a cure to management and quality of life.
How chronic breast cancer is treated
The treatment of chronic breast cancer is often long-term and may consist of several phases. Treatments are continued as long as they are effective and cause acceptable side effects.
The choice of treatment depends on the type of breast cancer, previous treatments, and how the body responds. Sometimes, periods of treatment alternate with periods of rest. The treatment is regularly evaluated and adjusted as needed.
Living with a chronic illness
Living with chronic breast cancer requires adjustment. Many people feel uncertain about the future, experience fluctuating energy levels, and face the emotional strain of knowing that the disease will not go away. At the same time, they try to carry on with their daily lives as normally as possible.
This can create a tension between pushing forward and listening to your body. It’s normal for emotions like sadness, fear, and anger to alternate with moments of calm and acceptance.
Impact on work, relationships, and identity
Chronic breast cancer often affects a person’s work, social life, and self-image. Making plans can be difficult when the future feels uncertain. It can also be hard for those around you to understand what it means to live with a chronic form of cancer.
Good support helps you put into words what you’re going through and set boundaries where necessary. This helps you maintain control and make your own choices.
Dealing with long-term side effects
Because treatment is often long-term, side effects can have a lasting impact. These may include fatigue, pain, hormonal symptoms, or difficulty concentrating.
The goal is not only to manage the disease, but also to make daily life as comfortable as possible. By addressing symptoms early on, adjustments can be made to treatment or support.
The Role of Mauro Medical Specialists
Mauro Medical Specialists supports people with chronic breast cancer throughout their entire journey. We help guide medical decisions, monitor their progress, and provide a safe space for questions and concerns.
Our support focuses on medical explanations, lifestyle, mental resilience, and quality of life. With us, you have a dedicated point of contact who supports you—not just once, but on an ongoing basis—in addition to your hospital care.
Meet our specialists
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Diederik Visser
Director & Co-founder
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Leonard Bokhorst
Radiation Oncologist & Co-founder
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Tanja Oostergo
Medical Oncologist
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Berdine Heesterman
Medical Scientific Advisor
Read more about cancer here
Frequently Asked Questions About Chronic Breast Cancer
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No. Chronic breast cancer is usually incurable, but it can often be kept under control for a long time.
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That varies greatly from person to person. Thanks to modern treatments, many people live with the disease for years.
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Yes. The treatment is aimed at slowing the progression of the disease and maintaining quality of life.
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We offer ongoing medical and personal support, in addition to hospital care, with a focus on the body, mind, and daily life.
Would you like personalized advice regarding your situation?
Please feel free to contact us to schedule an introductory meeting. We’ll listen to your needs, work with you to find the best solutions, and guide you every step of the way.