October 13th is Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day, an opportunity to recognize people living with metastatic breast cancer and raise awareness about this advanced stage of the disease. 

Metastatic breast cancer, also known as stage IV breast cancer, occurs when cancer spreads from the breast to distant parts of the body. Metastatic breast cancer can spread to the bones, lungs, brain, liver, distant lymph nodes, or chest wall. 

What Is Metastatic Breast Cancer? 

Breast cancer staging helps oncologists understand how far cancer has spread. Stage IV breast cancer occurs when the disease has spread to other organs or distant parts of the body. 

Cancer staging considers several factors, including the primary tumor, lymph node involvement and whether cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Tumor grade and certain biomarkers also help inform treatment recommendations. 

How Is Metastatic Breast Cancer Treated? 

Treatment options depend on the type and stage of breast cancer, hormone receptor status, lymph node involvement and other individual factors. Please note that treatment recommendations can differ from one patient to another. 

Treatment options for metastatic breast cancer may include: 

• Hormone therapy: Treatments such as tamoxifen can slow or stop the growth of cancer cells in the body. 

• Targeted therapy: These medications block the growth of breast cancer cells by targeting specific characteristics, such as an abnormal protein that contributes to cancer growth. 

Other treatment approaches may be considered depending on the patient's diagnosis and circumstances. Patients can discuss available options with their oncology team to better understand their treatment plan. 

The Role of Clinical Trials 

Clinical trials are another option patients may wish to discuss with their care team. Minnesota Oncology offers access to breast cancer clinical trials through its research partnerships. These studies evaluate treatments and approaches intended to improve cancer care. 

Clinical trial eligibility depends on the specific study and a patient's circumstances. Patients interested in participating can ask their oncologist whether an available trial may be appropriate for them. 

Learn More About Metastatic Breast Cancer 

Understanding a metastatic breast cancer diagnosis and available treatment options can help patients prepare for conversations with their care team. 

Explore breast cancer treatment options or learn about clinical trials available through Minnesota Oncology.