When your doctor first says the word ‘cancer’, it is usually a great shock for you and your family. You might feel overwhelmed, angry, scared, anxious or upset. These are all very normal responses to being diagnosed with cancer.
During the first week or two after your diagnosis, you will probably be asked to make decisions about treatment. At this time you might still be feeling shocked and confused, so you might find it helpful to talk about your treatment options with your doctors, family and friends. Seek as much information as you feel you need.
You may need to visit your doctor at times to ask questions, and bringing a friend or family member with you might help you to remember more clearly what the doctor has said.
You might also find it helpful to talk with your doctors about how you’re feeling. Sharing your feelings with others, even painful feelings, can help you cope with your diagnosis of early breast cancer. You can also ask your doctor to refer you to a breast care nurse or counselling specialist, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist.
Will I die from breast cancer?
Early breast cancer can be treated successfully, and most women diagnosed and treated for early breast cancer will not die from the disease. Some women want to know how likely they are to survive breast cancer. Statistics about other women who have been diagnosed and treated for breast cancer can be helpful.
However, it’s important to remember that these are overall statistics. Every woman’s breast cancer and situation is different.
The following information is about Australian women who are alive 5 years after being diagnosed with breast cancer. Most women live much longer than 5 years, but the statistics are usually measured in this way.
Of all Australian women diagnosed and treated for breast cancer between 1998 and 2002, 87% were still alive 5 years later.
