Hi,
I was diagnosed with TNBC in October 2024 after I found a lump that did not show up on mammograms. I went through Chemo, surgery, radiotherapy and then another 6 months of Chemo and finished up in January this year. I was given the all clear at that point.
The follow-up appointments are with the Breast Team (not oncology), and they seem keen to transition to "patient-initiated follow-up" rather than booking any further appointments. They seem to feel that an annual mammogram is enough, and I can let them know if I spot anything "abnormal". I was VERY reluctant to agree to that last year, as I still have some pain and haven't really got the lymphoedema under control. But MOSTLY because if the mammograms didn't pick up the cancer last time (due to dense breasts), I don't feel confident leaving my only screening to another mammogram.
They tried to placate me by saying my breasts would get less dense as I got older, so the mammograms would be more effective, but I am still very really uncomfortable about this. Especially because it was TNBC, there is no ongoing medication to suppress recurrence.
I have my 2-year follow-up appointment tomorrow, and I know they will likely pressure me to sign up for patient-initiated contact again.
I know that I gained weight over the cancer treatment, and that is a recurrence risk factor, so I am paranoid that I am struggling to lose weight.
AM I being over-cautious? Anyone else grappling with similar issues? TIA.
