New Option for Early Stage Breast Cancer Patients at Bangkok Hospital

Bangkok Hospital has recently implemented a streamlined program aimed at helping conserve patients' own tissue for early stage breast cancer patients. It is expected to allow up to 30% of cancer patients to keep their own breasts. End Quote

(1888PressRelease) February 23, 2009 - Wattanosoth Cancer Hospital - one of the four hospitals that make up the Bangkok Hospital campus, a top Thailand cancer center, is helping improve women's self-image, prospect of breastfeeding, sexual functioning and lifestyle preservation after breast cancer with a new breast conserving therapy program.

The Breast Conserving Therapy Program provides a structured treatment path for early stage breast cancer patients that is geared towards breast conserving therapy and reducing the need for Thai cosmetic surgery. The procedure basics are:
1. Condition history is determined, examination and initial consult performed
2. Digital mammogram or ultrasound is requested, if necessary
3. Excision, biopsy or FNA pathology performed if necessary
4. If the tests reveal early stage breast cancer, the medical team makes its recommendations on treatment options. If the patient decides to have breast conserving surgery, she receives comprehensive information on the nature of the disease, the surgery, and after-care and self care such as proper exercise, prior to admission.
5. Heart function continues to be monitored
6. Support and education continue
7. Specialist formulates treatment plan once would begins to heal, and treatment schedule for patient is determined.

It is estimated that around 30% of patients can undergo breast conserving therapy (BCT) at no increased risk over mastectomy. Breast conserving therapy has the following advantages over mastectomy for patients:
8. Functional lactation is possible in the treated breast, for patients planning to have children
9. Patients of all ages report better body image
10. Sexual functioning is less affected
11. Emotional and social functioning are less affected
12. General disruption to life is lower with BCT

The fact that breast cancer is the most common type of cancer diagnosed at Bangkok Hospital's specialist cancer center, Wattanosoth Hospital, was the prompter for the creation of the new program.

Dr. Chajchawan Nakhakes is a medical oncology specialist at Bangkok Hospital, and is confident the program will improve outcomes for patients. "Patients undergoing BCT have so many advantages over mastectomy patients, and in many cases the medical difference is non-existent. The program makes it easier and more natural for patients to choose BCT if appropriate, and reassures them about their choice."

About Bangkok Hospital:

Bangkok Hospital - www.bangkokhospital.com - is one of the most technologically sophisticated hospitals in the world today. Located in Bangkok, Thailand, the hospital is an expansive state-of-the-art medical campus providing comprehensive medical care through multidisciplinary teams of highly trained specialists. With its four hospitals and broad range of specialized clinics, the hospital is equipped with all of the diagnostic and treatment facilities not generally available at local hospitals. The center has received Joint Commission International accreditation and is known throughout the world for delivering world-class, award-winning healthcare.

For more information contact Chris E-Marketing Manager, Bangkok Hospital.
Email: info ( @ ) bangkokhospital dot com

http://www.bangkokhospital.com

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