Teleconference on Follow-Up Testing
Posted 10/28/2009
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I have written before about the role of follow-up testing (blood tests, scans, etc) once adjuvant treatment is completed. Obviously, women who are being treated for advanced/Stage IV breast cancer are in a different situation that requires ongoing evaluations of their situations.
Most women who finish adjuvant treatment are shocked to discover the minimal follow-up that is generally suggested. Although recmmendations vary somewhat among medical oncologists, the usual routine includes annual mammograms and possibly breast MRIs, and appointments every 4-6 months with the surgeon, radiation oncologist, and medical oncologist. Those appointments include a physical exam and a clinical history (that means, talking about how you are). Period. Many doctors do not recommend any kind of tests unless there are symptoms or worries that need exploration.
Many of you may be interested in learning more by participating in this free teleconference hosted by Living Beyond Breast Cancer (www.lbb.org). Here is more information:
November Teleconference on Follow-Up Testing
Register now for our next free teleconference, Follow-Up Testing 101, at the new time from 7:00 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST) on Wednesday, November 18.
Nancy U. Lin, MD, of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, will give you practical information about follow-up testing, including:
- The National Cancer Institute's guidelines for follow-up testing
- Why follow-up care may vary from doctor to doctor
- The differences in follow-up care between early-stage and advanced breast cancer
- The importance of a long-term survivorship plan
- How to communicate post-treatment concerns with your doctor
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