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Diagnosed with DCIS: How do I decide on treatment?

Breast Cancer | Last Active: Mar 20 10:00am | Replies (345)

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@rene1636

Thank you! That’s good information on the radiation technique! I will research further in the event I find I need radiation. My Radiology Oncologist told me that they use the mega dose radiation on the entire breast 5 days a week for 4 weeks. She didn’t mention any other type of radiation to choose from. After researching I’ve seen that there are a lot more side effects from the mega doses of radiation. Since there was nothing found after my lumpectomy clean margins are not applicable to me to help decide. I can’t believe that doctors are not telling women that in most cases if something comes back in the same breast after already having radiation their only choice is mastectomy. My own surgeon didn’t tell me, I asked her after seeing it several times during my “uneducated” research. I think this should be in every doctors discussion with patients. By seeing responses in several groups it seems the opposite. I think a lot of doctors just go with “standard care” & aren’t looking outside the box for treatment options specific to an individuals case. Women need to be their own advocate when it comes to treatments. Maybe it’s because I’m from Missouri, the “show me” state, lol. Or it’s as my mother used to say “I won’t do anything unless I think it’s my idea”. 🙂 I took what the doctors said & expanded on that by extensive research at the major cancer sites. Breast cancer is one hell of a journey. What you decide today could greatly impact you later. Wishing us ALL the BEST!

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Replies to "Thank you! That’s good information on the radiation technique! I will research further in the event..."

One factor is whether facilities have new state-of-the-art technology. Those that don't can't offer it. This argues just one benefit for trying to get care at the larger well-funded medical institutions. Also many, like Cleveland Clinic where I go prohibit physicians from receiving 'incentives' from pharmaceutical or medical equipment suppliers. [I think Mayo has the same policy.] I find it reassuring that my physician isn't subject to a conflict of interest in my medical care.