The challenge of pregnant women with breast cancer: a review of studies

Introduction: Breast cancer is the second most common pregnancy-related cancer in women, which isdiagnosed during pregnancy and up to one year after delivery. Out of every ۵-۶ Iranian women, one case isdiagnosed with breast cancer, and more than ۳% of them occur during pregnancy. Breast cancer is more likelyto occur in women whose first pregnancy is at an older age. The purpose of this study is to review the care andtreatment challenges in breast cancer during pregnancy.Methods: In this descriptive review article, ۳۶ English and Farsi articles searched in the reliable databasesScopus, PubMed, SID, Wiley, Magiran, Iranmedex, keywords of breast cancer, pregnancy and women wereidentified without limitation in time and type of study. Then, by re-reading the articles and further examining۱۷ articles according to the topic and purpose of the study, they were used to compile the present article.Results: Factors such as modifiable and immutable factors, breast density, bone mineral density, pregnancy andbreastfeeding are related to the incidence of cancer. It is very important to identify this disease as soon aspossible in early pregnancy because it becomes more difficult to diagnose and treat as pregnancy progresses.MRI is preferably prohibited in the first trimester, but mammography and radiography are not a problem. Also,ultrasound has more diagnostic value during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Treatment measures are performedusing surgery, hormone therapy, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and bisphosphonates. At the same time aschemotherapy or radiotherapy, breastfeeding is prohibited.Conclusion: In breast cancer during pregnancy, early diagnosis, starting treatment and determining the degreeof tumor growth is a high priority. The nurse also has a very important role in prenatal care, breastfeedingeducation and patient care under chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The need to provide supportive care in thisfield should not be overlooked.