Advanced Breast Cancer Treatment Options at Bumrungrad Hospital

Facing advanced breast cancer can be daunting, but having access to top-notch care can make all the difference. Bumrungrad International Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand, is renowned for its exceptional cancer care and advanced treatment options. If you or a loved one is dealing with advanced breast cancer, this blog will guide you through the comprehensive treatment options available at Bumrungrad Hospital, where cutting-edge technology meets compassionate care.

Bumrungrad International Hospital

Since opening its doors in 1980, Bumrungrad International Hospital has grown into one of Southeast Asia's largest and most respected private hospitals. Known for its modern facilities and world-class medical expertise, Bumrungrad is JCI-accredited and offers a range of services, including specialized cancer treatment. Here, you’ll find a dedicated team committed to providing personalized care for every patient.

A Team Approach to Breast Cancer Treatment

At Bumrungrad, treating advanced breast cancer involves a collaborative approach. You won’t just have one doctor working on your case—you’ll have a whole team of specialists. This team typically includes:

• Medical Oncologists: Experts in chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted treatments.
• Surgical Oncologists: Skilled surgeons who handle various breast cancer surgeries.
• Radiation Oncologists: Specialists in using radiation to target cancer cells.
• Radiologists and Pathologists: Crucial for accurate diagnosis and staging.
• Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons: Provide options for breast reconstruction.
• Nurses and Support Staff: Offer care and support throughout your treatment journey.

1. Chemotherapy for Advanced Breast Cancer at Bumrungrad International Hospital

Bumrungrad International Hospital offers cutting-edge chemotherapy treatments for patients with advanced breast cancer. Here are the key aspects of chemotherapy available at the hospital:

Bumrungrad International Hospital, located in Bangkok, Thailand, stands out for its comprehensive approach to treating advanced breast cancer with chemotherapy. This premier facility is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and offers personalized care plans designed to address the unique needs of each patient. Here's an in-depth look at the chemotherapy services provided at Bumrungrad International Hospital.

A. Personalized Treatment Plans

At Bumrungrad International Hospital, every chemotherapy treatment plan is customized to the patient’s specific cancer profile and overall health:

1. Comprehensive Assessment: Detailed analysis of the cancer’s molecular and genetic makeup is performed. This includes testing for hormone receptor status (ER, PR), HER2/neu expression, and other biomarkers that guide treatment decisions. Advanced imaging techniques such as PET scans, MRIs, and CT scans are used to determine the extent of cancer spread. This information helps in planning the most effective chemotherapy regimen.

2. Treatment Planning: Oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and pathologists collaborate to develop a personalized treatment plan. This team-based approach ensures that all aspects of the patient’s condition are considered. Based on the cancer’s profile and stage, a specific combination of chemotherapy drugs is chosen. This plan is designed to maximize effectiveness while minimizing potential side effects.

B. Types of Chemotherapy

Bumrungrad International Hospital offers several chemotherapy regimens, each tailored to different stages and types of advanced breast cancer:

1. Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: Administered before surgical intervention to shrink tumors, making them more manageable for removal and potentially enabling breast-conserving surgery. Common regimens include combinations of drugs like doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, and taxanes. The exact combination is chosen based on the patient’s cancer characteristics.

2. Adjuvant Chemotherapy: Given after surgery to eliminate any residual cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. Adjuvant treatments often include combinations like FAC (fluorouracil, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide) or FEC (fluorouracil, epirubicin, cyclophosphamide). The choice of regimen depends on the patient’s specific case and response to neoadjuvant therapy.

3. Palliative Chemotherapy: Focuses on controlling symptoms and improving quality of life for patients with metastatic breast cancer. It aims to manage disease progression and alleviate pain. This may involve single-agent therapies or combination therapies such as capecitabine, eribulin, or vinorelbine, tailored to the patient’s symptoms and disease progression.

C. Administration Methods

Chemotherapy can be delivered through various methods at Bumrungrad, each suited to different patient needs:

1. Intravenous (IV) Chemotherapy: Drugs are administered directly into the bloodstream through a vein. This is the most common method and allows for precise dosage control. Typically administered in an outpatient infusion centre, where patients receive their treatment in a comfortable setting with close monitoring.

2. Oral Chemotherapy: Some chemotherapy drugs are available in pill form, allowing patients to take them at home. This method is convenient and can be part of a combined treatment plan. Regular follow-ups are required to monitor response and adjust the dosage if needed.

3. Intramuscular (IM) Injections:  Certain drugs are injected into a muscle. This method is less common but may be used for specific drugs or patient conditions.

4. Intraperitoneal (IP) Chemotherapy: Drugs are delivered directly into the abdominal cavity, particularly useful for cancers that have spread to this area. Provides high drug concentrations directly to the cancerous area, potentially increasing effectiveness.

D. Managing Side Effects

Chemotherapy can cause a range of side effects, but Bumrungrad International Hospital offers robust support to manage these:

1. Anti-Nausea Medications:  Drugs such as ondansetron and granisetron are used to prevent and manage nausea and vomiting, common side effects of chemotherapy. These medications may be given before, during, and after chemotherapy sessions.

2. Treatments for Anemia and Infections: Supportive treatments include erythropoiesis-stimulating agents and blood transfusions if needed. Prophylactic antibiotics and growth factors may be used to prevent or manage infections, which can be a risk due to chemotherapy-induced immunosuppression.

3. Nutritional and Physical Support: Dietitians work with patients to provide advice on maintaining a balanced diet, and addressing issues like loss of appetite or weight loss. Helps patients manage fatigue and maintain physical strength during treatment.

E. Advanced Chemotherapy Techniques

To enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and minimize side effects, Bumrungrad incorporates several advanced techniques:

1. Targeted Chemotherapy: Uses drugs that specifically target cancer cells with minimal impact on healthy cells. This approach includes HER2-targeted therapies like trastuzumab and pertuzumab. Reduces side effects and improves treatment outcomes by focusing on cancer-specific pathways.

2. Dose-Dense Chemotherapy: Administers chemotherapy drugs at shorter intervals than standard schedules. This can be more effective for certain types of breast cancer, such as triple-negative breast cancer. Requires careful planning and monitoring to manage potential side effects and ensure patient safety.

3. Combination Chemotherapy: Uses a combination of different drugs to attack cancer cells from multiple angles and prevent resistance. Regimens like AC-T (doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, followed by paclitaxel) are examples. Enhances efficacy and reduces the likelihood of cancer cells becoming resistant to treatment.

Chemotherapy for advanced breast cancer at Bumrungrad International Hospital is a testament to the hospital’s commitment to providing cutting-edge, personalized cancer care. With a focus on individualized treatment plans, advanced chemotherapy techniques, and comprehensive management of side effects, the hospital offers a holistic approach to combating advanced breast cancer. For patients undergoing this challenging journey, Bumrungrad International Hospital provides expert care and a supportive environment, aiming to improve outcomes and quality of life.

2. Radiation Therapy for Advanced Breast Cancer at Bumrungrad International Hospital

Bumrungrad International Hospital offers advanced radiation therapy for patients with advanced breast cancer, focusing on delivering effective treatment while preserving healthy tissue. Here’s a detailed look at the key aspects of radiation therapy provided at Bumrungrad:

A. Types of Radiation Therapy

Bumrungrad International Hospital utilizes various types of radiation therapy to address advanced breast cancer:

1. External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): This is the most common form of radiation therapy. It involves directing high-energy beams at the cancer from outside the body. The precision of EBRT ensures that the radiation is effectively targeted at the tumor, minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.

2. Internal Radiation Therapy (Brachytherapy): This method involves placing radioactive materials directly inside the body near the cancer site. By delivering a high dose of radiation directly to the tumor, brachytherapy allows for concentrated treatment with minimal impact on the surrounding healthy tissue.

B. Techniques and Technologies

To enhance the effectiveness and safety of radiation therapy, Bumrungrad employs several advanced techniques and technologies:

1. Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT): IMRT varies the intensity of the radiation beams, allowing higher doses to be delivered to cancer cells while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues. This technique helps in precisely targeting the tumor and reducing side effects.

2. Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT): IGRT uses real-time imaging technologies during treatment to ensure that the radiation is delivered accurately to the tumor. This approach reduces the risk of damage to healthy tissues and improves the precision of the treatment.

3. 3D Conformal Radiation Therapy (3D-CRT): 3D-CRT utilizes three-dimensional imaging to shape the radiation beams to match the tumor's shape. This enhances the precision of the radiation delivery and improves the overall effectiveness of the treatment.

C. Treatment Planning

Bumrungrad's radiation oncologists design personalized treatment plans for each patient, involving:

1. Simulation: Advanced imaging technologies, such as CT scans or MRIs, are used to map the exact location and shape of the tumor. This helps in planning the most effective treatment approach.

2. Dosimetry: This involves calculating the optimal dose of radiation required to effectively treat the tumor while minimizing side effects. Dosimetrists work closely with oncologists to develop precise dosage plans.

3. Treatment Schedule: The frequency and duration of radiation sessions are tailored to each patient’s specific needs and overall health. The treatment schedule is designed to balance effectiveness with patient comfort.

D. Side Effect Management

While radiation therapy can cause side effects, Bumrungrad provides comprehensive support to manage them:

1. Skin Reactions: Patients may experience redness, irritation, or peeling at the treatment site. Bumrungrad offers specialized skin care advice and treatments to address these issues.

2. Fatigue: Tiredness during and after treatment is common. The hospital provides support and resources to help manage fatigue and maintain quality of life.

3. Breast Changes: Radiation can lead to swelling, tenderness, and changes in breast size and shape. Bumrungrad’s care team offers strategies and treatments to help alleviate these effects.

E. Combination with Other Treatments

Radiation therapy at Bumrungrad is often used in conjunction with other treatments to maximize effectiveness:

1. Post-Surgery: Radiation is frequently administered after surgery (lumpectomy or mastectomy) to eliminate any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.

2. With Chemotherapy: Radiation therapy may be combined with chemotherapy (chemoradiation) to enhance the overall treatment efficacy and improve outcomes.

3. Palliative Care: For patients with metastatic breast cancer, radiation therapy can be used to relieve pain and other symptoms by targeting cancerous areas that have spread to other parts of the body.

Bumrungrad International Hospital is committed to providing precise and effective radiation therapy for advanced breast cancer. With a focus on personalized treatment plans and minimizing side effects, the hospital uses cutting-edge technology to enhance patient outcomes and improve quality of life.

Hormonal Therapy for Advanced Breast Cancer at Bumrungrad International Hospital

Hormonal therapy, also known as endocrine therapy, is a crucial treatment for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, a type of cancer that grows in response to hormones such as estrogen or progesterone. At Bumrungrad International Hospital, this therapy is designed to effectively target and inhibit cancer growth by manipulating hormone levels or blocking their effects. Here’s a detailed overview of hormonal therapy options available at Bumrungrad:

A. Types of Hormonal Therapy at Bumrungrad

1. Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs)

Tamoxifen is a widely used SERM in the treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. It works by blocking estrogen from binding to estrogen receptors on cancer cells, effectively slowing or halting cancer growth. This medication is effective for both premenopausal and postmenopausal women, making it a versatile option in hormonal therapy. By interfering with estrogen’s ability to fuel cancer cell growth, Tamoxifen plays a critical role in managing and treating hormone-driven cancers.

2. Aromatase Inhibitors

i. Anastrozole (Arimidex): Anastrozole is an aromatase inhibitor that lowers estrogen levels in the body by blocking the aromatase enzyme, which is responsible for estrogen production. It is primarily used in postmenopausal women to reduce estrogen levels and slow the progression of estrogen-dependent tumors. By reducing the overall estrogen levels, Anastrozole helps to limit the growth of cancer cells that rely on estrogen to thrive.

ii. Letrozole (Femara): Letrozole functions similarly to Anastrozole by decreasing estrogen levels in the body. It is used to treat hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women, helping to slow or stop the growth of estrogen-dependent tumors. Letrozole’s effectiveness in reducing estrogen levels supports its role in the comprehensive management of hormone-sensitive breast cancer.

iii. Exemestane (Aromasin): Exemestane is an irreversible aromatase inhibitor that significantly reduces estrogen levels by permanently binding to the aromatase enzyme. This reduction in estrogen is crucial for controlling the growth of estrogen-dependent cancer cells. Exemestane is particularly effective in cases where other aromatase inhibitors have been used previously, and it provides an additional therapeutic option for managing hormone receptor-positive breast cancer.

3. Estrogen Receptor Downregulators (ERDs)

Fulvestrant works by degrading estrogen receptors within cancer cells, preventing these receptors from facilitating cancer cell growth. This therapy is particularly useful for cases where the cancer has developed resistance to other hormonal therapies. By targeting and degrading estrogen receptors, Fulvestrant helps to inhibit the growth of cancer cells that depend on estrogen for their proliferation.

4. Ovarian Suppression

i. Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Agonists: Medications such as Leuprolide (Lupron) and Goserelin (Zoladex) are used to suppress ovarian function, reducing the production of estrogen from the ovaries. This approach is especially beneficial for premenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, as it lowers estrogen levels and reduces the stimulation of cancer cells.

ii. Oophorectomy: Surgical removal of the ovaries, known as oophorectomy, is a definitive method of reducing estrogen production in the body. This procedure is particularly effective for premenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, as it permanently eliminates the primary source of estrogen, thereby limiting cancer growth driven by this hormone.

B. Personalized Hormonal Therapy Plans

At Bumrungrad, the approach to hormonal therapy is highly personalized:

1. Hormone Receptor Status: Before initiating treatment, tests are conducted to determine the presence of estrogen or progesterone receptors in the cancer cells. This information is critical for selecting the most appropriate hormonal therapy.

2. Cancer Stage and Type: Treatment plans are tailored based on the stage and specific characteristics of the cancer. This ensures that the therapy addresses the unique aspects of each patient’s condition.

3. Patient Health and Preferences: Overall health and individual treatment goals are taken into account. This personalized approach ensures that therapy aligns with the patient’s health status and preferences, improving adherence and outcomes.

C. Managing Side Effects

Hormonal therapy can lead to various side effects, but Bumrungrad provides comprehensive support to manage them:

1. Tamoxifen: Common side effects include hot flashes, vaginal discharge, and an increased risk of blood clots. Patients receive guidance and management strategies to address these issues.

2. Aromatase Inhibitors: Side effects may include joint pain, osteoporosis, and hot flashes. Bumrungrad offers supportive care to manage these effects and maintain quality of life.

3. Fulvestrant: Potential side effects include injection site reactions, fatigue, and nausea. The hospital provides symptomatic relief and support to minimize discomfort.

4. Ovarian Suppression: Menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and mood changes may occur. Patients receive care and interventions to manage these symptoms effectively.

At Bumrungrad International Hospital, hormonal therapy for advanced breast cancer is delivered with a focus on precision and personalization. By employing a range of hormonal therapies tailored to each patient’s needs, the hospital aims to effectively control cancer growth while minimizing side effects. With a commitment to comprehensive care and advanced treatment options, Bumrungrad provides a supportive environment for patients navigating the complexities of advanced breast cancer treatment.

4. Immunotherapy for Advanced Breast Cancer at Bumrungrad Hospital

Bumrungrad International Hospital is at the forefront of offering innovative immunotherapy treatments for patients with advanced breast cancer. This approach leverages the body's immune system to identify and eliminate cancer cells more effectively. Below are the key aspects of immunotherapy provided at Bumrungrad:

A. Types of Immunotherapy

1. Checkpoint Inhibitors: These therapies work by blocking specific proteins that inhibit immune cells from attacking cancer cells. By inhibiting these checkpoint proteins, the immune system is enabled to better recognize and destroy cancer cells. Checkpoint inhibitors are particularly beneficial for patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) or those whose tumors express high levels of PD-L1, a protein that helps tumors evade immune detection.

2. Monoclonal Antibodies: Monoclonal antibodies are engineered to target and bind to specific proteins on cancer cells. For example, Trastuzumab and Pertuzumab are used to target HER2-positive breast cancer cells, marking them for destruction by the immune system. These therapies are specifically utilized for patients with HER2-positive advanced breast cancer.

3. Cancer Vaccines: Cancer vaccines aim to stimulate the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells by targeting specific cancer antigens. Although still largely in the experimental stage, cancer vaccines are showing promise for various types of advanced breast cancer and could offer new treatment options in the future.

4. Adoptive Cell Therapy: This treatment involves extracting immune cells from the patient, modifying them to better target cancer cells, and then reinfusing these enhanced cells back into the patient. Adoptive cell therapy is currently under investigation for breast cancer, especially in cases where other treatments have not been successful.

B. Personalized Treatment Plans

At Bumrungrad, immunotherapy treatments are customized based on each patient’s unique cancer characteristics, genetic profile, and overall health. This personalized approach ensures that the treatment plan is tailored to target cancer cells effectively while maximizing patient safety and efficacy.

C. Administration and Monitoring

Immunotherapy can be administered in various ways, depending on the specific type of treatment:

• Intravenous (IV) Infusion: Many immunotherapies, including checkpoint inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies, are delivered through intravenous infusion.
• Subcutaneous Injection: Some monoclonal antibodies can be administered as injections under the skin.
• Oral Medication: Certain immunotherapy drugs may be available in pill form.

Patients undergoing immunotherapy at Bumrungrad are closely monitored through regular follow-ups, imaging studies, and blood tests to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and to manage any potential side effects.

D. Managing Side Effects

Immunotherapy can lead to various side effects, which can differ based on the specific medication used. Common side effects include:

• Fatigue: Patients may experience significant tiredness during and after treatment.
• Skin Reactions: Rash, itching, and other skin changes can occur.
• Flu-like Symptoms: Symptoms such as fever, chills, and muscle aches are common.
• Digestive Issues: Patients might experience diarrhoea, nausea, or loss of appetite.
• Inflammatory Responses: Potential inflammation of organs like the lungs (pneumonitis), liver (hepatitis), or thyroid (thyroiditis) can occur.

Bumrungrad provides comprehensive support to manage these side effects through medications, lifestyle recommendations, and counselling, ensuring patient comfort and well-being throughout the treatment process.

E. Combination with Other Treatments

Immunotherapy at Bumrungrad is often combined with other treatment modalities to enhance overall effectiveness:

• With Chemotherapy: Combining immunotherapy with chemotherapy can improve treatment outcomes, especially for triple-negative breast cancer.
• With Targeted Therapy: Immunotherapy is sometimes used alongside targeted therapies, such as HER2 inhibitors, to provide a more thorough approach to treatment.
• With Radiation Therapy: Combining immunotherapy with radiation therapy can amplify the overall effectiveness of the treatment plan.

Bumrungrad International Hospital is dedicated to providing advanced immunotherapy options for advanced breast cancer. By integrating cutting-edge treatments with a comprehensive approach to managing side effects, the hospital ensures effective, personalized, and compassionate care for patients.

Targeted Therapy for Advanced Breast Cancer at Bumrungrad Hospital

Bumrungrad International Hospital provides cutting-edge targeted therapy for patients with advanced breast cancer. This treatment uses drugs or other substances to precisely identify and attack cancer cells while minimizing damage to normal cells. Here are the key aspects of targeted therapy available at Bumrungrad:

1. Her2-targeted therapies include medications such as Trastuzumab (Herceptin), Pertuzumab (Perjeta), and Ado-trastuzumab emtansine (Kadcyla). These therapies target the HER2 protein, which is overexpressed in certain breast cancers and promotes the growth of cancer cells. By blocking HER2, these treatments help to slow or stop the growth of HER2-positive breast cancer. These therapies are specifically used for patients with HER2-positive advanced breast cancer.

2. CDK4/6 Inhibitors include drugs like Palbociclib (Ibrance), ribociclib (Kisqali), and abemaciclib (Verzenio). These drugs work by inhibiting the CDK4 and CDK6 proteins, which are crucial for cell division. Blocking these proteins helps prevent cancer cells from proliferating. CDK4/6 inhibitors are used for patients with hormone receptor-positive (HR-positive), and HER2-negative advanced breast cancer.

3. PI3K Inhibitors, such as Alpelisib (Piqray), target the PI3K pathway, which is often overactive in cancer cells. By inhibiting this pathway, these drugs help to slow the growth and spread of cancer. PI3K inhibitors are particularly useful for patients with HR-positive, HER2-negative advanced breast cancer that has a specific mutation in the PIK3CA gene.

4. PARP Inhibitors like Olaparib (Lynparza) and talazoparib (Talzenna) block the PARP enzyme, which helps repair DNA damage in cells. Inhibiting this enzyme makes it more difficult for cancer cells to repair themselves, leading to their death. PARP inhibitors are used for patients with BRCA-mutated, HER2-negative advanced breast cancer.

B. Personalized Treatment Plans

At Bumrungrad, targeted therapy plans are tailored to each patient’s specific needs through a comprehensive approach:

1. Molecular and Genetic Testing: Detailed testing is conducted to identify specific genetic mutations or protein expressions associated with the patient’s cancer. This helps in pinpointing the precise targets for therapy, ensuring that the treatment is aligned with the unique characteristics of the cancer.

2. Cancer Subtype: Treatment is customized based on the specific subtype of cancer, such as HER2-positive or hormone receptor-positive. This ensures that the therapy is effective against the particular type of breast cancer the patient has, enhancing the likelihood of a successful outcome.

3. Patient Health and Response: The therapy plan is adjusted according to the patient’s overall health and how they respond to treatment. This includes monitoring for any side effects and modifying the approach as needed to optimize both efficacy and tolerability.

Patients receiving targeted therapy at Bumrungrad are closely monitored for effectiveness and potential side effects. Regular follow-up appointments and tests are essential to assess the response to treatment and adjust the therapy as needed.

D. Managing Side Effects

While targeted therapies are designed to minimize side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy, they can still cause issues. Common side effects include:

Bumrungrad provides comprehensive support to manage these side effects through medications, lifestyle adjustments, and patient education, ensuring the best possible quality of life during treatment.

E. Combination with Other Treatments

Targeted therapy at Bumrungrad is often used in combination with other treatments for enhanced effectiveness:

• With Chemotherapy: Combining targeted therapy with chemotherapy can improve outcomes, especially in aggressive cancers.
• With Hormonal Therapy: For hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, combining targeted therapy with hormonal treatments can provide a synergistic effect.
• With Immunotherapy: In some cases, targeted therapy is used alongside immunotherapy to provide a more comprehensive treatment approach.

Bumrungrad International Hospital is committed to offering cutting-edge targeted therapies for advanced breast cancer, combining innovative treatments with personalized care to achieve the best outcomes for patients.

Bumrungrad’s targeted therapy approach involves a multidisciplinary team and personalized treatment plans for advanced breast cancer. The hospital’s use of innovative therapies and management of side effects ensures optimal patient care.

Surgery for Advanced Breast Cancer at Bumrungrad Hospital

Clinical Trials for Advanced Breast Cancer at Bumrungrad Hospital

Bumrungrad International Hospital offers access to cutting-edge clinical trials for patients with advanced breast cancer. These trials provide opportunities to receive innovative treatments that are not yet widely available. Here are the key aspects of clinical trials at Bumrungrad:

A. Types of Clinical Trials

1. Treatment Trials: Investigate new drugs, combinations of drugs, or new surgical procedures and radiation therapies. Patients seeking access to the latest treatment options.

2. Prevention Trials: Explore ways to prevent breast cancer in high-risk populations through medications, lifestyle changes, or other interventions. Individuals at high risk of developing breast cancer.

3. Screening Trials: Test new methods for detecting breast cancer early. Individuals undergoing routine breast cancer screening.

4. Quality of Life Trials: Study ways to improve the comfort and quality of life for breast cancer patients. Patients undergoing treatment or survivors dealing with side effects.

5. Genetic Trials: Examine the genetic and molecular mechanisms of breast cancer to develop targeted therapies. Patients whose cancer is linked to specific genetic mutations.

B. Access and Eligibility

Bumrungrad’s clinical trials are open to patients who meet specific eligibility criteria, which vary depending on the trial. These criteria can include the type and stage of cancer, previous treatments, overall health, and specific genetic markers.

C. Benefits of Participating in Clinical Trials

• Access to New Treatments: Patients can receive the latest treatments before they are widely available.
• Close Monitoring: Participants are closely monitored by a team of healthcare professionals, ensuring high-quality care.
• Contribution to Research: By participating, patients help advance medical research and potentially benefit future patients.

D. Participation Process

E. Safety and Ethical Considerations

Clinical trials at Bumrungrad are conducted under strict ethical guidelines to ensure patient safety and well-being. All trials are reviewed and approved by institutional review boards (IRBs) to ensure they meet ethical and scientific standards.

F. Support Services

Bumrungrad provides comprehensive support services for clinical trial participants, including:

• Dedicated Research Coordinators: To guide patients through the trial process.
• Counselling Services: To provide emotional and psychological support.
• Financial Counseling: To assist with understanding potential costs and insurance coverage.

Bumrungrad offers access to cutting-edge clinical trials for advanced breast cancer, providing patients with the latest treatment innovations and contributing to ongoing research. The hospital’s dedication to research and patient care makes it a top choice for clinical trials.