Dear nurses team
I read this in the Independent and wondered if you had any more details on the trial?
As with most cancer survivors im very worried about recurrence as I lost my mum to Stage 4 BC in 2019. She also had ER+ BC which came back after 12 years. I am only 40 and had an Onocotype of 59!
Many thanks.
Hi redruth
Thank you for posting.
It’s understandable that you are concerned about the risk of your breast cancer coming back (recurrence) especially with the experience of your mum’s breast cancer. Nearly everyone who has been treated for cancer worries about it coming back and you’re not alone in being anxious about this. The uncertainty and fear of breast cancer returning is very real.
The risk of breast cancer recurrence varies for each individual and is dependent on a number of factors. You mention your age and oncotype score, which is something you can discuss with your treatment team, if you haven’t already done so, as they can advise on how this may impact your individual risk.
The study highlighted in this recent edition of The Independent refers to work being done in the US at The University of Pennsylvania. The trials it refers to are at an early stage and are currently only recruiting participants in a small number of sites across America. You can read more about it by following this link.
There are trials underway in the UK aimed at detecting early signs of recurrence and potential treatment by using blood tests, known as liquid biopsies. You may be interested in the information about this on the Cancer Research UK website.
You don’t say when you were diagnosed with breast cancer or what treatment you are currently receiving but you may wish to discuss this your breast care nurse or treatment team to see if this may be something you might benefit from.
Many people are surprised at how emotional they feel when their treatment finishes. Adapting to life after treatment can be difficult and often the need for information and support continues.
We offer a range of free supportive services which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events including tailored support for younger women.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to additional support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks.
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Best wishes
Julie
Breast Care Nurse
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