What is the likelihood of breast cancer coming back?
Breast cancer recurrence is a possibility that can occur either in the short term or long term. More than 50% of patients experience a recurrence of breast cancer five or more years after their initial diagnosis. While these statistics may seem daunting, it's important to recognize that achieving remission does not guarantee the end of the journey. It is crucial to have ongoing discussions with your oncologist to understand the risk of recurrence and be aware of the symptoms that require attention after remission.
During this challenging time, it is vital to empower yourself by engaging in open and informed conversations with your doctor. These conversations should encompass understanding your diagnosis, exploring treatment options, and considering the road ahead. By addressing the question of life beyond treatment, you can discuss the most suitable treatment options for you, potential side effects, and strategies to improve your overall quality of life while minimizing the risk of cancer recurrence. This may include discussing advanced therapies beyond chemotherapy.
According to experts from the Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, breast cancer incidence has been gradually increasing, particularly in urban areas of India. They emphasize the importance of patients having a comprehensive understanding of available treatments and engaging in thorough discussions with their doctors about their options. Modern post-operative curative treatments can improve patient outcomes and decrease the risk of recurrence, which can happen in approximately 10-20% of patients.
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To guide your conversations with your doctor, here are six questions to consider:
1) What stage is my breast cancer, and what does it mean? Understanding the stage of your breast cancer is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment plan. Ask your doctor to explain the stage clearly, including details about tumor size, lymph node involvement, and potential implications. This knowledge will help you grasp the severity of your condition, the chances of recurrence, and the available treatment options.
3) What is the risk of recurrence, and what type of recurrence could it be? After surgery or achieving remission, it's important to understand the risk of recurrence based on the stage of your breast cancer. Recurrence could involve local or distant metastasis to other parts of the body, such as bones, liver, or lungs. The risk may vary depending on the type and stage of breast cancer, and understanding this information will guide further discussions.
4) Will the recommended treatment maintain or improve my quality of life? Discuss with your doctor the potential impact of treatment on your quality of life. Inquire about how the recommended treatment may affect your daily activities, physical well-being, emotional health, and overall quality of life. Ask about strategies to manage treatment-related side effects and ways to enhance your well-being during treatment.
5) Are there supportive care services available? Dealing with breast cancer can be physically and emotionally demanding. Inquire about the supportive care services offered by your healthcare facility. These services may include access to a multidisciplinary team consisting of oncology nurses, social workers, psychologists, nutritionists, and palliative care specialists. Supportive care services can provide guidance, emotional support, symptom management, and resources to help you navigate your journey effectively.
6) What are the long-term implications and survivorship considerations? Discuss the long-term implications of your breast cancer and survivorship considerations with your doctor. Ask about the potential for future recurrences, the need for ongoing monitoring and follow-up, and strategies for maintaining overall health. Inquire about lifestyle modifications, such as exercise, diet, and stress management, that may contribute to your long-term well-being.
When facing a breast cancer diagnosis, it is crucial to have open and honest discussions with your doctor. The questions mentioned above serve as a starting point to gain clarity on the risk of recurrence, treatment options, impact on quality of life, availability of supportive care services, and long-term implications. Empower yourself with knowledge and seek the guidance of trusted healthcare professionals to make informed decisions about your care and well-being. Remember that you are not alone in this journey, and support is available to help you navigate through it.