Interview by Houda Bakkali
Dr. Aureli Torné Bladé, Head of the Gynecologic Oncology Unit at Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Associate Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Barcelona, and member of the Royal Academy of Medicine of Catalonia, discusses the challenges in addressing this disease, the impact of new technologies and artificial intelligence on its diagnosis, the importance of prevention, and the value of communication when referring to breast cancer.
Dr. Aureli Torné represents one of the most authoritative and respected voices in the field of gynecologic oncology. His contribution to the research and treatment of cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, the management of human papillomavirus, as well as to the field of gynecological medicine and obstetrics, has been widely recognized. He has participated as a researcher in 35 different research projects and has received more than thirty awards throughout his career.
The work of Dr. Torné is tireless. He has published more than 220 original articles, delivered more than 350 conference communications and 230 lectures at congresses, courses, and medical conferences, edited 7 books, and published 47 chapters dedicated to gynecological medicine. He has directed and organized numerous medical courses and congresses, participated as a professor in more than 250 courses, supervised 9 doctoral theses, and contributed to the drafting of 20 consensus documents and clinical guidelines. Throughout his career, he has also held different roles and responsibilities in scientific institutions around the world, including the Spanish Association of Cervical Pathology and Colposcopy, the Terminology Committee of the International Federation of Cervical Pathology and Colposcopy, and the Ibero-American Society of Vulva and Vagina, among others.
In the field of scientific research, where are we now in the fight against breast cancer?
The field of breast cancer research is dynamic and constantly evolving, with many ongoing studies that promise to continue improving survival rates and patients’ quality of life. The most notable aspects are:
- early detection thanks to screening programs, where imaging techniques continue improving their ability to detect tumors at very early stages, whose prognosis is excellent;
- more personalized and targeted treatments, thanks to biomarkers and genetic testing that make it possible to design specific treatments adapted to each type of tumor, improving effectiveness and reducing side effects;
- new treatments such as immunotherapy, which is based on using the immune system to fight the tumor and has proven effective in a subgroup of tumors with a poorer prognosis;
- improving equity in breast cancer treatment, ensuring that all patients, regardless of their geographic location or socioeconomic characteristics, have access to detection, diagnosis, and treatment.
What challenges still lie ahead?
Although significant progress has been made in the treatment and understanding of breast cancer, there are still important challenges in the fight against this disease, some of which are:
- better understanding treatment resistance developed by some tumors;
- continuing research into why some tumors present metastases and relapses after successful treatment, and in some cases these are more aggressive and more resistant to previous treatments;
- developing less toxic treatments, with fewer side effects and a better impact on patients’ quality of life;
- continuing to advance in personalized medicine in order to better predict which treatments will work and for which patients, based on the specific genetics and biology of the tumor.
How are new technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) impacting the diagnosis and therapeutic approach to this disease?
New technologies, and especially artificial intelligence, are radically improving the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer in several ways. Artificial intelligence can analyze images with a level of detail that surpasses human capability, which will improve the accuracy of mammograms and other imaging tests, and therefore can increase their sensitivity and promote the early detection of lesions. Its ability to analyze data from different patients, including information on all biological and clinical variables and responses to previous treatments, can help identify which treatments will be most effective for a specific patient. Ultimately, artificial intelligence can support clinical decision-making by integrating and analyzing large volumes of medical information, from clinical protocols to the latest research and clinical trial data, facilitating physicians’ access to relevant and updated information in real time.
A healthy lifestyle, to what extent does it help prevent breast cancer?
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential in cancer prevention in general and also in breast cancer. For example, there is strong evidence linking overweight and obesity with a higher risk of breast cancer, especially after menopause, since adipose tissue increases estrogen levels and promotes inflammatory activity. Alcohol consumption is also clearly linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, which is why limiting intake or avoiding it completely is recommended. Regarding regular physical activity, numerous studies have shown that it can reduce risk, as it also helps maintain a healthy weight, reduces inflammation, and improves hormonal regulation. Ultimately, implementing a healthy lifestyle, although it does not guarantee the prevention of breast cancer, can significantly reduce the risk.
What role does communication play in addressing the disease?
Communication plays a fundamental role in addressing breast cancer, impacting multiple aspects. It is important to educate the public, and for this purpose, well-designed public health campaigns can increase awareness and motivate women to participate in screening programs or adopt healthier lifestyles. In addition, communication in the care of breast cancer patients is essential to ensure they understand their disease, the diagnostic and treatment options, understanding the benefits and risks of each option and facilitating informed decision-making. Empathetic communication and psychological support are fundamental for patients and their families, as they help them manage the stress, fear, and uncertainty associated with the disease.
A hopeful message for patients and families
All the advances in research and treatments we have referred to bring us closer to a future in which breast cancer is becoming a completely manageable condition, with continuous and progressive improvements in all areas (detection, diagnosis, treatment), which is reflected in excellent results and heralds a hopeful future for patients and their families.
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Image: Hospital Clinic de Barcelona