Breast Cancer Aftercare: Identifying Specialists and Frequency of Follow-ups
Breast cancer survivors often face a new journey of care and preventive measures after their treatment. Here's a comprehensive guide to help navigate this journey.
After undergoing breast cancer treatment, patients typically have an oncologist appointment to discuss follow-up care. The frequency of these appointments may vary depending on the individual's situation and risk of recurrence. For the first year, appointments are usually every three months, then every six months from the third to fifth year, and annually after five years.
The risk of breast cancer returning is highest in the first five years after treatment. The first mammogram after breast cancer treatment serves as a baseline for comparison in future mammograms to monitor for changes. Mammograms for both breasts are recommended at least once a year for those who have had a lumpectomy or partial mastectomy. For those who have undergone a mastectomy, mammograms for the unaffected breast are recommended once a year.
Physical activity is encouraged as it may lower the risk of breast cancer returning and reduce mortality risk, as well as help manage side effects such as fatigue and lymphedema.
Maintaining a healthy body mass index (BMI) can lower the risk of breast cancer progressing or returning after treatment. However, the impact of BMI on breast cancer recurrence is not definitive. A balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean protein, and low in red and processed meats, refined sugars, and fatty foods, may improve overall health and prolong life, but does not guarantee a reduction in breast cancer recurrence.
People with a history of cancer, including breast cancer, are recommended to get seasonal flu shots due to an increased risk of serious flu complications. Those with a weakened immune system can discuss other vaccinations with a doctor, including COVID-19 vaccines and pneumococcal shots.
Bone health monitoring is recommended for people taking aromatase inhibitors or if treatment has caused early menopause. A pelvic exam is recommended once a year for those who have a uterus and are taking tamoxifen or toremifene.
Doctors consider people to be in partial remission from breast cancer when there are no signs or symptoms of cancer, and complete remission means there are no signs or symptoms of cancer at all. Follow-up treatment allows healthcare professionals to monitor people's health and well-being, manage side effects, check for signs of cancer recurrence or new cancer, and monitor for complications of breast cancer treatments.
Life expectancy after breast cancer can vary significantly based on factors such as the type and stage of breast cancer at diagnosis. The relative survival rates after a breast cancer diagnosis are 91% after 5 years, 86% after 10 years, and 81% after 15 years.
In conclusion, post-breast cancer care involves regular follow-up appointments, mammograms, physical activity, a balanced diet, and potentially other tests such as pelvic exams and bone health tests. It's crucial to maintain open communication with healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible care and outcomes.
