HER2 Positive Breast Cancer (HER2+BC)

What is it?

HER2-positive breast cancer is a type of breast cancer where the cancer cells have higher-than-normal levels of the HER2 protein, which promotes cancer cell growth. It is more aggressive than other types of breast cancer but can respond well to targeted therapies.

What are the symptoms?

Lump in the breast
Changes in breast shape or size
Skin irritation or dimpling
Nipple discharge
Pain or tenderness in the breast

What else could it be? (Differential diagnosis)

HER2-negative breast cancer
Fibrocystic breast changes
Breast cysts
Inflammatory breast cancer

What are the aggravating factors?

Genetic mutations (family history of breast cancer)
Estrogen or progesterone receptor-positive cancers
Hormonal factors (early menstruation, late menopause)

What types of food are helpful?

Antioxidant-rich foods: Such as berries, dark leafy greens, and tomatoes.
High-fiber foods: Whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables.
Healthy fats: Include omega-3 fatty acids from fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts.

Sample Recipe: Salmon and Spinach Salad

Ingredients: Fresh salmon, spinach, avocado, olive oil, lemon, walnuts.
Directions: Grill or bake salmon and toss with spinach, avocado, and walnuts, drizzling with olive oil and lemon juice.

What are the traditional treatments?

Chemotherapy: To kill cancer cells.
Targeted therapy: Drugs like trastuzumab (Herceptin) specifically target HER2 proteins.
Surgery: Mastectomy or breast-conserving surgery to remove the tumor.
Radiation therapy: To kill any remaining cancer cells after surgery.

What are the natural and alternative treatments?

Turmeric: May help reduce inflammation and support overall health.
Green tea: Rich in polyphenols, which may help inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
Flaxseed: Contains lignans, which have been suggested to have anticancer properties.

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Reliance on any information provided on this website is solely at your own risk.