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Should I do Radiotherapy or not? I am 71 years old

Breast Cancer | Last Active: Oct 23, 2023 | Replies (17)

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@triciaot

I’d suggest you ask them for a clear understanding of your risk of local recurrence, distant recurrence, and possible new cancer occurrences. I’ve learned so much since my diagnosis June 2022 and realize that risks can be so different for each of us.
My story, 69 yo, DCIS, 1.6 cm, BCS, radiation, tamoxifen. I did 5 days of radiation using breath control (lifts the chest up with deep breath intake to keep radiation beams away from the heart/lung) and VMAT radiation (probably best to Google that, would take lots of words to explain). I believe I had 600 gy in 5 sessions, total 3000 gy. The lower the number of days the higher the amount of gy.
I do have some fat necrosis (dead cells, firm area) in about a 1.5” X .5” area. I’m choosing to ignore the lumpiness - it’s possible it will be absorbed over time. And about 2” of the suture line under my breast is corded. The goal is that the radiation beam will not touch the sutures, but I think it must have. Again, not too worrisome. I would do radiation again if I had to make that decision.
I can tell you about how tamoxifen therapy has gone, if that would be helpful.

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Replies to "I’d suggest you ask them for a clear understanding of your risk of local recurrence, distant..."

I have a place of fat necrosis, also. When I found it, I was scared so bad! I was told the same as you-that my body may absorb it over time. I was already scheduled for a MRI when it was found and it came back clear. That was a big relief. I’m glad you are doing well and hope you continue in your healing. 🌹

How did your Tamoxifen therapy go?
I’m having a hard time Didn’t have radiation I guess they think everyone can tolerate Tamoxifen
Thank you for any suggestions