Being told you have breast cancer can be a gut-wrenching experience for any woman. In addition to the fear, uncertainty and anxiety that comes with the diagnosis, you’ll be wanting answers to many questions. Here is a checklist of some of the more important questions to ask your care team.
What type of breast cancer do I have?
Has my breast cancer spread?
How treatable is my breast cancer?
Do I need any other tests or procedures before treatment begins?
How soon can I begin treatment?
How long will my treatment last?
Where should I have my treatment?
Hometown Hospital offers a number of cancer-fighting services, including surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy, as well as support groups, counseling and educational support. By staying close to home for your cancer treatment, you will benefit from the much-needed support of your friends and family.
Ready for some good news?
The 5-year survival rate for localized breast cancer is 99 percent! Localized simply means that the cancer has not spread outside of the breast. Even if the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes or other nearby structures, the 5-year survival rate is 86 percent. That’s the reason it is so important to follow the recommended guidelines for breast cancer screening. Early detection saves lives!
Source: American Cancer Society, HealthPartners