I had asked my Mayo oncologist to draw my baseline estradiol and estrone levels before starting hormonal drugs. I was told that this was not indicated. Having been on Exemestane for past 8 months with side effects I again asked if these levels could be drawn. I again was told no and was lead to believe that the current commercial test available for these levels was not accurate. This drug has been found to be efficacious at many levels. 25mg was dosage settled on. The issue is that none of us are the same size, age Nor do we all have the same medical issues. Lower doses have fewer side effects. What may be the correct dosage for me may be different for someone else. But the mantra is the adult medical world seems to be one size fits all. The other disappointment for me is that I would have expected to be given a questionnaire about the side effects since 40 to 50 percent of women quit therapy. Survey would include joint, gastrointestinal, estrogen loss (hair loss, brain fog, vaginal dryness, beard formation) , mental health (depression, anxiety, insomnia, suicidal thoughts), high blood pressure, change in lipid profile, and quality of life each time I saw the oncologist. I use to fill out surveys like this regarding the health of my children before the pediatrician stepped in. It allowed us to focus our discussion. Also, it would provide data to let women know if your this age, or this BMI, or have or do not have your ovaries, or are premenopausal or post menopausal you are at risk for certain side effects. I am a small person and I feel like I am being overdosed.

Finally, I and six of my friends and colleagues have been diagnosed with breast cancer this past year. We all have had surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. WE are now all on hormonal treatment. WE are not the same age, same tumor, or same medically, but everyone of us has experienced side effects. By nature I think most women do not complain or quit therapy, but would really like someone to listen and to find or offer solutions for these effects that can effect quality of life. Happy Thanksgiving to All!!