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Anyone dealing with Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia (ADH)?
I am sorry if this is not the right forum. I know ADH is not cancer and this is a breast cancer forum, but I can't find another forum that may be more relevant.
I am wondering if there is anyone who is dealing with ADH or has been diagnosed with ADH that can share their experience. I was diagnosed a month ago. While I am relieved that I don't have cancer, I am confused with the radiology report that shows BI-RAD6 - surgical removal is recommended. I have seen a breast oncology surgeon and I don't think she took me seriously because I don't have cancer. It almost feels like I wasted her time seeing her because I don't have cancer. If ADH is no big deal, why BI-RAD 6 (which i understand is for biopsy proven malignancy). I also read up about ADH online and understand that with ADH, my risk for breast cancer is 4x. Should I not worry about it and just do annual check? Should i see another breast surgeon? Should I see an oncologist? Do I need genetic testing to better understand my risk? I feel like an impostor for even posting this on a breast cancer forum but I am genuinely confused and concerned. Any help will be greatly appreciated.
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Hello @charlie65mcm are you referring to atypical hyperplasia?
Yes I believe so
@charlie65mcm, I moved your question about how to deal with this new diagnosis to this discussion so you can connect with other members facing "what next?" decisions:
- Anyone dealing with Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia (ADH)?https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/anyone-dealing-with-atypical-ductal-hyperplasia-adh/
Atypical hyperplasia of the breast is the development of precancerous cells in the breast. Atypical hyperplasia of the breast isn't breast cancer. But it's a sign that you have an increased risk of breast cancer in the future. You can read more about ADH here on Mayo Clinic's website:
- Atypical hyperplasia of the breast https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/atypical-hyperplasia/symptoms-causes/syc-20369773
@charlie65mcm, has your doctor suggested frequent monitoring or treatments to reduce your risk of cancer? How are you doing?
Right now we are pre surgery. Everything seems to be hinging on what is removed when that happens. In the mean time the idea seems to be pills that will inhibit my estrogen, I’m speaking with volunteers from acs, I will be speaking with a mind body expert, a nutrionist and I’ve spoken with my integrative oncologist and will see him again a few weeks after surgery. I’m also trying to deal with the stress and anxiety this brings with meditation and meditation sleep. I’ve covered everything at work and dealt with my disability paperwork.
I find it hard to separate my brain from my emotions.
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1 ReactionI was diagnosed with multiple Atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH) 2 1/2 years ago as part of a tissue examination after a breast reduction. I saw a surgeon but the tissue was already removed. I seen an oncologist every 6 months and on the post cancer medication. First Anastrozole with terrible side effects and now on Extemestane for another 2 1/2 years. Initially I had an MRI but now on the standard yearly mammograms. There is no breast cancer in the family but my sister and I have the diagnosis of Daughters of DES with another type of increase risk of Breast cancer. My sister did have breast cancer last year. So the cancer meds are a preventative treatment. I recommend an oncologist. Blessings to you.
@kingmullen1 This is a follow-up to my 2024 comments.
I had my best Mammogram, and Doctor breast exam, I've had in the past 10 years. Nothing showed up. Not a clarification, not anything.
Not sure if what I have been doing with my health has made a difference. My doctor seems to think so.
What I changed: I have lost weight. About 35 lbs over 2 years. Slowly and have kept it off. I exercise daily. Even if it's a short walk. I always try to move. We cut out seed oils completely. If I get exposed to seed oils while eating out, (which we don't do often,) I take a Vit E.
Once a week, I apply DIM cream to both breasts. I upped my Vit D and brought my levels in the normal range. I began adding a minimum amount of Aspirin powder to my protein/collagen drink, a couple times a week, along with Kakadu Plum and African Mango.
I became very conscience of my protein intake and realized I needed to up my protein and lower my carbs. I still very much eat complex carbs, but have really gotten away from desserts. They are more of a once in awhile treat. I still drink occasionally. Maybe a couple glasses of wine a week, or a beer I tend to stay away from the sugary cocktails. I never was a big drinker, but found liquor contends alot of calories, so I try to watch that.
I might add, all these changes, have been very beneficial to my blood work as well. Excellent A1C, glucose, thyroid and lowest heart numbers (LDL, HDL,) also in 10 years. My Doctor was really pleased about that.
Thought I would post an update. I am now as of this year, back to once a year Mammogram, unless I notice something, I am suppose to come in. I still shower breast check weekly. But, I never did ever have a lump, only the calcification and the ADH biopsy. I still do it.
Blessing to all those out there, continue the fight. Don't let the Cancer bastard destroy us.
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