These guidelines have been developed to help all those involved in the management of advanced breast cancer, including patients, carers and healthcare professionals. This is a very large subject, and it has not been possible to cover every aspect of advanced breast cancer. Instead we have tried to concentrate on those areas where it was felt uncertainty or practice variation currently exists. These include systemic treatments, lymphoedema and the treatment of metastases at specific sites such as bone and brain.

It is important to appreciate that this guideline is not intended as an exhaustive textbook on the management of advanced breast cancer. The guideline sets out recommendations that should be followed in the majority of clinical situations, but cannot be a substitute for clinical judgement in a specific case.

This document is produced alongside guidance on early breast cancer. We hope that those who use it will find it helpful and informative in decision making and management.

John Winstanley, GDG Chair

Nick Murray, GDG Lead Clinician