Australian model and actress Elle Macpherson, 60, has revealed that she was diagnosed with breast cancer seven years ago and is now in remission.
However, she did not undergo chemotherapy and instead underwent a partial mastectomy to remove the cancer from her breast, according to Sky News.
Doctors recommended she undergo a mastectomy, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy and breast reconstruction surgery.
After much thought and seeking advice from 32 doctors and specialists, she decided not to undergo chemotherapy.
McPherson trusts her instincts: holistic treatments over traditional treatments
The BBC reports that MacPherson took a “holistic approach” rather than traditional medicine: “Refusing standard medical treatment was the hardest thing I've ever done, but going against my own instincts would have been even harder,” MacPherson said.
In her new book, she talks about her diagnosis and the decision that followed. Elle: Life, LessonsShe said she has seen several specialists, including her family doctor, a naturopath, a holistic dentist, an osteopath and a chiropractor.
“Personalized” Treatment
She also understands that her holistic approach may not work for everyone. A leading breast cancer surgeon told the Guardian that many media reports about Ms Macpherson's use of alternative therapies left out key information and risked misleading people.
Professor Chris Pike, head of medical services at Brisbane's Matter Private Hospital, said a partial mastectomy, like the one Ms Macpherson underwent, could in itself often be an appropriate standard treatment for the condition.
Jane Murphy, clinical specialist nurse at Breast Cancer Now, said: “Every diagnosis is different, so treatment recommendations are tailored to each individual's situation, as agreed between the patient and their breast cancer specialist team. Experts base their recommendations on solid clinical evidence.”
*For more information about breast cancer, see the Cancer Society of South Africa (Cansa) website.
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