Irradiation of the left breast damages the heart and should be avoided
In a presentation: Breast irradiation is dangerous and should be avoided, I showed that this treatment causes radiation pneumonitis. Nevertheless any woman with breast cancer will receive radiation therapy. Medicine claims that radiation is essential for cure. This conclusion is based on a false interpretation of recent meta-analyses by Early Breast Cancer Trialists’ Collaborative Group (EBCTCG).
Recently it became clear that irradiation of the left breast irreversibly damages the heart. Nevertheless any woman with a tumor in her left breast will be irradiated. Again medicine claims that radiation is essential for cure which is based on the same false interpretation of meta-analyses by Early Breast Cancer Trialists’ Collaborative Group (EBCTCG).
Irradiation does not eliminate the tumor and does not prolong survival. It only initiates tumor dormancy which may be achieved by less toxic treatments which do not damage the heart, like tamoxifen.
Each quantum of x-rays irreversibly damages the heart and the effect is cumulative. Radiation to the thorax can damage the pericardium, myocardium, valves, and coronary vessels, with the pericardium being the most commonly involved.
Radiotherapy of breast cancer does not cure. Neither does it improve survival and should therefore be prohibited.