Addressing the different needs around metastatic disease: Making life more than a diagnosis
Any breast cancer diagnosis can be difficult for patients, their families, and loved ones, but the needs of the metastatic community are greatly different, compared to those diagnosed at an earlier stage. Metastatic breast cancer (mBC), or stage 4 breast cancer, occurs when the disease spreads beyond the breast to other parts of the body, even after initial treatment.15
Did you know that it is estimated in 2025, nearly 170,000 women will be living with mBC in the United States?16
Although there is currently no cure for mBC, advancements in cancer research and treatments are helping people live longer by managing the disease as a chronic illness.
Novartis has partnered with the metastatic advocacy community for more than 12 years, and remains committed to bringing much-needed support, resources, and research to mBC patients.
For those living with mBC, treatment teams are key to supporting treatment decision making, and helping navigate the physical, emotional, and social challenges associated with mBC. For more tips on living with and navigating an mBC diagnosis, check out the following available resources:
Download A Guide to Understanding Metastatic Breast Cancer (PDF)
Download Precision Oncology 101 – What You Should Know, Ask, and Remember (PDF)
Currently approved treatments do not work the same for everyone, so patients should talk to their doctors about treatment options. During these conversations, clinical trial results may be discussed to help make informed choices. Additionally, new clinical trials may provide further opportunities for treatment with investigational therapies.
As treatments and new data become available, we strive to expand our efforts so we can empower more people in the breast cancer community. In addition to our existing portfolio, we are committed to researching new potential treatments to help those living with mBC.