Having treatment for breast cancer that has spread to spine - is it worth it?

I have recently been diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer which is also in my spine.  I have been told it is not curable, but treatable using hormone therapy.  The side effects are very unpleasant, and as this will only slow down the cancer cell growth  not get rid of it, is it really worth going through all this for the end result to be the same.  My initial reason for having MRI etc was increasing pain in spine, loss of balance, weakness in legs and arms, and this treatment will only make the pain worse and have no benefits.  Please advise

  • Welcome to Cancer Chat Pandorax, although I'm sorry to hear about your diagnosis and the increasing pain you've been having in your spine. It must be very difficult to live with.

    I know you have some concerns about going ahead with the hormone therapy so if it would help to talk to someone about this, our cancer nurses are available on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5.pm. They're very insightful and will do all they can to support you.

    I also wanted to put you in touch with one of lovely members,  . She was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer with extensive bone mets in September 2024 and has been having a combination of Ribociclib, Exemestane, and Denosumab for just over a year now, so hopefully hearing about her experience and talking to someone who really does understand what you're going through will help you with your decision. 

    I hope this helps Pandroax and you're able to come to a decision that's right for you.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator