Adjuvant systemic treatment for breast cancer should be initiated as early as possible better within 30 days of surgery because of significant poor effect of delay
I am confused as my doctor said is between 3 to 6 weeks. Had my mastectomy on 17 Nov and scheduled to see oncologist on 19 Dec. I am worried it may be too late. Normally how soon after seeing the oncologist can chemo start?
Hi Sesame
I think its best to listen to your Oncologist and Surgeon. Everyone has different diagnosis and situations but I do know that nowadays they cannot wait any longer if the situation is serious. My onc and surgeon are well known at Christies and and I waited just over 5 weeks from lumpectomy to chemo start. Im sure if they thought this ok, it is. We could google endlessly and keep coming up with different things so I choose not to goigle regarding my diagnosis and go straigh to my team. Good luck with your treatment and take someone with you as a second pair of ears and jot any questions down. In rhe meantime take plenty of rest whilst you can after your surgery, so you will be ready for next treatment.xx
My mum had her surgery on 15th Nov. Oncologist app last Wednesday - and she is having her chemo first week of January.
I was worried about the delay - she is her+ so chemo and herceptin then radiotherapy. But the oncologist who was a senior consultant said they weigh up every single case and look at the variables, size, spread etc.
She straight away said after Christmas which to be fair mum would only have one session before Christmas and not sure she wants to feel crappy over Christmas with the first session and all.
I queried the 30 day thing and I was told 6-8 weeks, she also said if she was worried she would have mum in next week so I’m sure the same applies for your consultant.
Mum has heart scan on the 20th December then pre assessment first week of jan then chemo few days later. First oncology appointment (I went with mum) is quite detailed and ask all questions you have. About the type of chemo, length etc. The chemo my mum is having Paclitaxel 3 months weekly and herceptin when we thought it would be to E-C.