Key points:
- It is more likely that you will find a cancer that has come back or spread than your doctor.
- If you notice a new lump or experience new symptoms, you should follow up immediately.
- You should still have regular follow-up's. Your doctor or oncologist should monitor your progress and provide support.
- The most likely places where cancer may spread are the skin, bones lungs and liver.
- Everyone develops aches and pains. It will be hard for you not to worry if you do experience pain or other symptoms.
- In most cases these will not mean the cancer has returned.
- You should follow up any new symptoms.
Recommended follow up:
Experts recommend follow up with your doctor or surgeon on a regular basis. The usual follow up recommended is set out below. Not everyone will need to be monitored this closely. However if it is suggested that you follow up less frequently you should ask why and if you are not comfortable ask for more frequent checkups.
| 1st year | 2-5 years | After 5 years | |
|---|---|---|---|
| History and examination | Every 3 months | Every 6 months | Every year |
| Mammogram | 6-12 months after completion of radiation treatment | Every year | Every year |
| Other tests such as blood tests, bone scans and chest X-rays | Not required for routine follow up of women with early breast cancer. You may have additional tests where there is spread to the lymph nodes. Specific tests may be done if you have other symptoms of possible spread to other parts of the body | ||
If there is concern about
possible spread, you may have the following tests after your operation
and may have some or all of them at regular intervals thereafter:
- blood tests
- a chest X-ray to check for spread to the lungs
- a bone scan to check for spread to the bones ( radioactive isotope is injected. This will be absorbed by any secondary cancer and show up on the gamma camera when scanned a few hours later).
- a liver ultrasound scan (to check for metastases in the liver).
Ongoing treatment and care:
- You may need treatment and care in addition to the regular follow-up appointments. In between the appointments you may find a breast lump, breast change, or other symptoms. If this happens, do not wait until the regular appointment.
- See your GP or specialist as soon as possible if you:
feel a lump in either breast, or in the breast tissue left on your chest after mastectomy have any other symptoms in either breast, such as nipple discharge develop any other symptoms that concern you. Looking after your emotional wellbeing is also a very important part of your ongoing care, maybe even years after your first treatment. Some women feel anxious or depressed for several years, particularly about the possibility of the cancer coming back. - If you do feel anxious or depressed, or if you have any other concerns, support is available.
- Talk with your doctors or other health care professionals about any worries you may have. If you feel you’d like more support, ask to be referred to a specialist such as a counsellor, psychologist or psychiatrist.
