Early detection of breast cancer dramatically improves survival, with rates exceeding 95%. However, when the disease progresses to metastatic breast cancer—where cancer spreads to organs such as the lungs, bones, or liver—the survival rate falls sharply to around 40%.
In the Chosun Ilbo medical and health YouTube series “Kim Cheol-jung’s This Will Heal You,” experts from the Korean Cancer Chemotherapy Study Group discussed the latest advances in treating metastatic breast cancer. Participating were Professor Son Ju-hyuk of Yonsei Cancer Hospital, Professor Kim Ji-hyung of Gangnam Severance Hospital, and Professor Lee Ji-eun of Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital.
Metastatic breast cancer often develops even years after patients have been declared cancer-free, with up to 20% experiencing late recurrences. Professor Kim Ji-hyung explained, “Our main goal is to reduce pain, prolong survival, and help patients maintain their daily lives through appropriate treatment.”
A major recent advancement is the recognition of a new cancer subtype called HER2-low expression. Previously, tumors were classified only as HER2-positive or HER2-negative based on the presence of surface proteins. The new classification identifies patients previously considered negative as HER2-low, opening the door for targeted therapies.
One of the most promising treatments for this group is the antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) Enhertu, which combines cancer-targeting antibodies with powerful chemotherapy agents. Professor Son Ju-hyuk shared, “Patients who once arrived in wheelchairs due to bone metastasis pain are now walking into appointments after treatment—a truly remarkable improvement.”
Despite its promise, accessibility remains a major issue. Enhertu is currently not covered by health insurance for HER2-low patients, with each dose costing over 3 million Korean won. Professor Lee Ji-eun stressed, “The high cost forces some patients to stop treatment midway. Urgent insurance support is critical.”
As research advances, these new therapies offer renewed hope for metastatic breast cancer patients, highlighting the importance of continued medical innovation and support for patient access.
