Courtesy Susan G. Komen for the Cure
There are over 2.9 million breast cancer survivors in the United States today (more than any other group of cancer survivors) While it’s tragic so many people have had breast cancer, the sheer number of survivors shows the great strides that have been made in early detection and treatment. Today, most breast cancer survivors lead long and fulfilling lives.
After breast cancer treatment ends, many people are afraid they still have cancer or that it will come back. These fears are normal. For some people, talking to a counselor or joining a support group can be helpful. Your health care provider may be able to help you find a counselor or support group.
There are things you can do to help lower your risk of recurrence. If you are being treated with hormone therapy (tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors), taking the drugs as prescribed not only lowers the risk of the first cancer coming back but also lowers the risk of getting a second primary breast cancer.
Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise may also play a role in breast cancer survival.
For more information, visit ww5.komen.org/BreastCancer/aftertreatment.html.