I had my lumpectomy post op meeting with consultant on Friday. (previous indicators from biopsy/scans were that my cancer was non palpable, size 47mm, grade 3, ER+) Actual post op findings confirmed as more positive, with clear margins, Sentinel Node clear, 27mm of DCIS/calcification with actual invasive cancer a mere 2mm and now grade 2. Very relieved of course as was expecting this to be stage 3 outcome from initial indications. was given prescription for Anastrozole and informed that would have bone density testing and see radiology oncologist ahead of radiotherapy. I was not provided with information regarding risk/pros/cons of upcoming treatment. In the moment was so relieved at the news that didnt raise the topic.... I am interested in finding out more on trials for hormone meds and radiotherapy as am really not sure if both are necessary. I understand that both treatments are preventative, but believe that with Stage on BC risk is lower for recurrence.
I currently take no meds, age 65, normal weight, good health, excellent immune system. Have for 6 yrs been keto/carnivore way of eating and this has boosted my health immensely. I am somewhat sceptical of the NHS's approach to treatment, which seems to be directing me towards both hormone and rad therapy without a discussion. very concerned re AIs and side effects of Rad. there seems to be little information/discussion about opting out of these treatments with early stage BC.
However, I have yet to scour this forum and plan to do so. I would appreciate hearing others views/experiences around this topic.
Many thanks in advance.
Jill
I had Grade 2 15mm of ER+/PR+ and 54mm (2 areas of DCIS) grade 3 - stage 1 diagnosis over 7 years ago. (you will be stage 1 too).
The fact that you are producing too much oestrogen means that your cancer is 'fired' by the oestrogen levels in your body. They do carry out the surgery, but the radiotherapy is there in case if micro cells being there that may quite potentially have been missed by the naked eye. They obviously try to avoid this by taking 1cm all round extra, but supposing 1 micro cell has moved a little further than 1cm? To be fair, it's the DCIS (despite being pre-cancerous) that is the worst bit for needing the radiotherapy as these haven't formed into a tumor and are more likely to be floating around.
I was on Anastrozole for the 5 years and like you, I was concerned about the side effects. I asked my oncologist and all I got in reply was "I can't make you take them" didn't help! So, what I thought was I'd take them and see how I got on. As it was, I was ok on them and it was just a case of taking the tablet daily. I had the DEXA scan and osteopenia so take AdCal - calcium and vitamin D daily (still) to prevent it getting worse.
Radiotherapy itself was extremely manageable and I found that by drinking lots, it negated any fatigue. I was able to drive the 60 miles daily for 15 sessions without issue. A bit of radio. burns, but nothing that was too terrible. Mine was left sided, so I was worried about my heart as I couldn't do the breathe technique, but again, no issues.
Breast cancer is the most prevalent form of breast cancer and there have been developments since I was diagnosed, so they are updating treatment constantly. For instance the DEXA scan wasn't around for me when I was diagnosed.
It's worthwhile trusting that they see a lot of cases and know what they are doing 
Yes, it's scary but I can honestly say that after I'd got through my lumpectomy, radiotherapy etc. the fear of the treatment was far worse than the treatment itself.
There is a very long post on here somewhere from a lady who opted out of the treatment whilst I was having my treatment. (stage 1) She took the oestrogen tablets, but refused the lumpectomy and radiotherapy. The 'cut and burn' as she called it. Later she ended up on chemotherapy and eventually, sadly passed away as it spread too far.
Kindest wishes, Lesley
