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Breast cancer-free anniversaries
Breast Cancer | Last Active: May 8, 2023 | Replies (117)Comment receiving replies
I've not yet heard of someone offered radiation OR aromatase inhibitors. In theory these are both valid treatment protocols, as is chemo when it's appropriate. Depending upon the risk of recurrence that your oncologist thinks applies in your situation, the Letrozole may be a good idea to at least try. Even better, a second opinion from another oncologist might be helpful with that decision also. I declined aromatase inhibitors for a few reasons specific to my health but it was reassuring that two oncologists supported that decision and didn't see it as risky.
Replies to "I've not yet heard of someone offered radiation OR aromatase inhibitors. In theory these are both..."
You are right, in that they actually told me I could choose no treatment, radiation or AI, or both. They sited studies, considering my age, test results and history.
Thanks for responding🥰
Happy to hear this. I opted out of AIs as I had terrible side effects reactions, and now follow a whole food plant based no oil diet. I have never felt better in my 69 years of life. I have lost 65 pounds and I get out for a hike every other day! Never felt better.... and I still cannot bend my finger after the AIs. That was 2 years ago. But I mange anyway.
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Reading the details of clinical trial TAILOR RT for more information. That said I was not suggested either radiation or AI. It was AI only or both. As my BC characteristics are estrogen positive AI was ALWAYS strongly recommended. I’m in my 7th month and no obvious side effects.
FYI: Radiation is local/regional for anything left behind after surgery ( which could become systemic at some point if travels into lymph system).
AI is systemic and starves ER+ BC of the needed estrogen to survive.
My age is was a definite factor. I am 72 ( not 73 as I stated). I guess I felt like I aged an additional year this year!