Integrative strategies in breast cancer therapy: Conventional approaches, emerging advances, and future challenges
Jaya Vinny Eapen, P. Rosina George, S. Thomas, Jayesh Antony
Abstract
Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent malignancies affecting women globally, with evolving treatment paradigms emphasizing the integration of conventional therapies, innovative technologies, and holistic care models. Over the past decade, advancements in surgical techniques, targeted therapies, and immunomodulatory agents have significantly improved survival rates. However, challenges persist in managing treatment-related toxicities, disease recurrence, and patient quality of life. Integrative oncology has emerged as a transformative framework that combines evidence-based complementary interventions, such as lifestyle modifications, mind-body practices, and acupuncture, with standard anticancer protocols to address the multifaceted needs of patients. Concurrently, breakthroughs in tumor profiling, nanotechnology, and immunotherapy are reshaping diagnostic and therapeutic landscapes, offering personalized strategies to overcome resistance and minimize side effects. However, the path forward demands interdisciplinary collaboration, biomarker-driven clinical trials, and scalable models for delivering patient-centered care. This article synthesizes current knowledge on conventional and integrative breast cancer therapies, explores cutting-edge innovations, and outlines the critical challenges to achieving equitable, effective, and sustainable cancer care. This review underscores the pivotal advancements in breast cancer therapeutics, highlighting the shift from conventional approaches to precision-targeted strategies that address tumor heterogeneity and therapeutic resistance. By integrating novel modalities such as antibody-drug conjugates, nanoparticle-based delivery systems, and pathway-specific inhibitors, it showcases the transformative potential of these innovations in improving treatment specificity and patient outcomes. The exploration of cutting-edge techniques, including combination therapies and photothermal strategies, signifies a profound impact on the evolving landscape of breast cancer management.