Metastatic breast cancer (MBC), also referred to as stage IV breast cancer, occurs when cancer cells spread beyond the breast to other parts of the body, such as the bones, liver, lungs, or brain. While MBC is currently not curable, medical advancements have made it possible for many individuals to manage the disease effectively and maintain a good quality of life.

This article outlines the common symptoms of metastatic breast cancer, the risk factors, and available treatment options that can help slow disease progression and provide relief from symptoms.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Metastatic Breast Cancer

The symptoms of metastatic breast cancer depend on which organs or tissues the cancer has spread to. Some people may experience mild symptoms, while others may have more pronounced signs that affect daily activities.

Common Symptoms Based on the Affected Area:

✔ Bone Metastases – Persistent bone pain, particularly in the spine, hips, and legs, may indicate that cancer has spread to the bones. This may also increase the risk of fractures.

✔ Lung Metastases – Symptoms may include shortness of breath, a persistent cough, or chest pain.

✔ Liver Metastases – Cancer that spreads to the liver may cause abdominal pain, swelling, yellowing of the skin (jaundice), nausea, and loss of appetite.

✔ Brain Metastases – Symptoms may include headaches, blurred vision, difficulty speaking, memory loss, or seizures.

✔ General Symptoms – Many individuals with metastatic breast cancer experience severe fatigue, unintentional weight loss, and swelling (edema), especially in the legs and feet, as a result of the cancer itself or its treatments.

If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Understanding the Prevalence of Metastatic Breast Cancer

Metastatic breast cancer affects a significant number of breast cancer patients. Studies show that:

✔ 5–6% of women diagnosed with breast cancer already have metastatic disease at the time of their initial diagnosis.

✔ 1 in 3 breast cancer patients eventually develop metastases, even if their cancer was originally diagnosed at an earlier stage.

✔ The number of metastatic breast cancer cases increased from 5.8 cases per 100,000 women in 2001 to 7.9 cases per 100,000 women in 2021 (Source: CDC).

✔ African American women are 40% more likely to die from breast cancer than white women due to disparities in early detection and treatment access (Source: Metavivor).

These statistics highlight the importance of ongoing research, early diagnosis, and better treatment accessibility for all patients.

Available Treatment Options for Metastatic Breast Cancer

Although there is no cure for metastatic breast cancer, various treatments can help control tumor growth, relieve symptoms, and improve quality of life. Treatment plans are tailored based on tumor characteristics, including hormone receptor (HR) status and HER2 status.

1. Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapies focus on specific proteins or genes that drive cancer growth, making them more precise than traditional chemotherapy.

✔ Ibrance (Palbociclib)

• A CDK4/6 inhibitorthat helps slow the division of cancer cells.
• Used for hormone receptor-positive (HR+), HER2-negative MBC, typically combined with hormone therapy.
• Side effects:Fatigue, low white blood cell count.

✔ Verzenio (Abemaciclib)

• Another CDK4/6 inhibitorthat reduces tumor growth and delays disease progression.
• Side effects:Diarrhea, nausea, liver enzyme changes.

✔ Kisqali (Ribociclib)

• Similar to Ibrance and Verzenio, prolongs survival in HR+/HER2-negative breast cancer.
• Side effects:Increased risk of liver toxicity and heart-related issues.

✔ Enhertu (Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan)

• Used for HER2-positive MBC, delivering chemotherapy directly to HER2-expressing cancer cells.
• Side effects:Lung inflammation, low blood counts.

✔ Nerlynx (Neratinib)

• Targets HER2-positive breast cancerto prevent further tumor spread.
• Side effects:Severe diarrhea, requiring preventative medication.

2. Hormone Therapy

For hormone receptor-positive (HR+) metastatic breast cancer, hormone therapy helps block estrogen or progesterone, slowing tumor growth.

✔ Tamoxifen – Blocks estrogen receptors in breast cancer cells.

✔ Aromatase Inhibitors – Includes Anastrozole (Arimidex), Letrozole (Femara), and Exemestane (Aromasin), which lower estrogen levels in postmenopausal women.

✔ Fulvestrant (Faslodex) – An estrogen receptor degrader (SERD) that stops estrogen from binding to cancer cells.

3. Chemotherapy

✔ Used for: Fast-growing, aggressive breast cancer cases where targeted or hormone therapy is ineffective.

✔ Pros: Can shrink tumors and slow disease progression.

✔ Cons: Side effects include nausea, hair loss, fatigue, and suppressed immune function.

4. Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy helps boost the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells.

✔ Keytruda (Pembrolizumab) – Used for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), which lacks hormone receptors and HER2 expression.

✔ Pros: Offers an option for patients with limited treatment choices.

✔ Cons: May cause immune-related side effects such as inflammation of the lungs or liver.

5. Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is not used as a primary treatment for metastatic breast cancer, but it can help relieve symptoms when cancer spreads to the bones or brain.

✔ Pros: Can ease pain and improve mobility in bone metastases.

✔ Cons: Side effects include fatigue and localized skin irritation.

Managing Metastatic Breast Cancer for a Better Quality of Life

Living with metastatic breast cancer requires a combination of medical treatment, lifestyle changes, and emotional support.

Tips for Managing Symptoms and Well-Being:

✔ Stay Active: Regular physical activity helps reduce fatigue and improve mental health.

✔ Follow a Balanced Diet: Eating nutrient-rich foods can support immune function and overall health.

✔ Get Emotional Support: Joining support groups or seeking therapy can help patients cope with the challenges of MBC.

✔ Monitor Symptoms: Regular check-ups with healthcare providers ensure that treatment adjustments are made as needed.

Final Thoughts: Hope Through Advancements in Treatment

Metastatic breast cancer presents significant challenges, but ongoing medical research and new treatment options are improving survival rates and quality of life for many patients.

✔ Early symptom recognition and personalized treatment approaches can help slow disease progression.

✔ Newer targeted therapies and immunotherapies are offering better outcomes and fewer side effects.

✔ Regular screenings, healthy lifestyle choices, and a strong support system are key to navigating life with MBC.

If you or a loved one is experiencing persistent symptoms, consult a doctor as early intervention can make a difference. Advancements in metastatic breast cancer treatments continue to bring hope, helping patients live longer and with a better quality of life.