GP checkups after lumpectomy, radiotherapy and hormone treatment

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  1. Should I have any checkups with my GP after my breast cancer treatment? My breast cancer was diagnosed 2 and half years ago. I had a lumpectomy followed by 5 sessions of radiotherapy. I took letrozole for 18 months but it really affected my mobility so I'm now taking tamoxifen which is much better. I have a mammogram each year and I had a bone scan 2 years ago. I read that mammograms are not always reliable if you have dense breast tissue so I do sometimes worry about that. My lump wasn't one you could feel. I just wonder whether I should be having any other checks to make sure the medication isn't doing any harm
  • Dear Sj54

    Thank you for reaching out to us here at Macmillan Cancer Support.  My name is Rae and I am a Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

    You are not alone when feeling apprehensive about your health and wellbeing following a cancer diagnosis and treatment.  Speaking to other people can help with this.  This can be by connecting with other people with a breast cancer diagnosis, through the breast forum at the online community, or support groups.  The Cancer Care Map gives details of national and local support.

    Following treatment for breast cancer, you will have regular checks at the hospital, over time these checks will become less frequent.  Some hospitals have a ‘patient initiated follow up’ where you can telephone if you are worried about new symptoms or would like emotional support.  After the initial follow up period, usually around 5 years, the GP then takes over the longer term follow up. 

    You ask if you should be having other checks to make sure the medication isn’t doing any harm.  As you are still taxing tamoxifen, the breast care team should still be monitoring you.  National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) says that all people who have had treatment for breast cancer should have an agreed, written care plan, including details of dates for review of adjuvant therapy (treatment received after the main treatment), details of surveillance mammography, and signs and symptoms to look out for and seek advice on.

    Follow up for tamoxifen can include blood tests to check liver and blood cell count.  Also a regular examination to monitor for physical changes or side effects.  You should let your team know if you have any breakthrough bleeding and you can be monitored for any abnormalities in your pelvic region as tamoxifen can increase this risk.  Bone density scans can be periodically undertaken and this will depend on your teams and the results of your original baseline test.

    Following treatment for breast cancer, you can reduce your risk of recurrence by following a healthy lifestyle.  This includes eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables and is high in healthy fats, lean proteins and fibre.  Regular exercise and staying physically active can help to maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of recurrence.  Alcohol reduction can lower your risk too.

    Please give us a call here on the Support Line if you would like to discuss any of the above information in more detail. 

    Best wishes

     

    Rae, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

     

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.

     

    Ref/RH/GH