When breast cancer cells divide and spread to other organs or lymph nodes in the body, it is generally considered to be in its advanced or final stages.
Treatment
Depending on the stage of the cancer, the breast or tumor may be removed followed by intense rounds of radiation or chemotherapy to halt the division of cells and isolate the primary tumor. These measures may also be taken to minimize pain and make the patient comfortable if they are in Stage IV.
Survival Rate
The five-year survival rate for a Stage IV or advanced breast cancer is slim. Most patients even with treatment only live on average between one and two years after the initial diagnosis.
Metastasized
When the cancer is its advanced stages it means it has metastasized or spread beyond the original tumor site. In this case, the cancer gets harder to treat and it eventually overtakes the body.
Hospice Care
Hospice care is generally instituted with advanced breast cancer. Even if the patient is mobile and not in need of continuous care, that could change at a rapid pace. The hospice care team can provide the patient with education, home care assistance and nursing expertise related to end of life care.
Palliative Care
Palliative care using drugs and durable medical equipment is often instituted through the hospice care team to make the patient feel comfortable during the last few months or weeks of life.
