Radiation risks greater for older breast cancer patients
This article was originally published in Clinica
Executive Summary
Breast cancer patients who receive radiotherapy after surgery show reduced breast cancer deaths and disease recurrence, but increased mortality from other causes, particularly heart problems, a review of radiotherapy trials has shown. As a result, there is a modest benefit for younger women with node-positive disease under the age of 50, but risks may outweigh benefits for older women who are at low risk of local recurrence, researchers conclude.