Cryotherapy , or cold therapy, is any kind of treatment that uses near-freezing or freezing temperatures. It works by constricting blood vessels, which in turn can reduce blood flow to a particular area. While it may seem counterintuitive to want to reduce blood flow, by doing so to an area of the body with inflammation, it can help reduce associated swelling and discomfort. Cryotherapy can also help improve pain by reducing nerve activity. Cryotherapy can be especially helpful for issues such as neuropathy , where the peripheral nervous system (any neurons outside of the brain and spinal cord) is malfunctioning. Common symptoms include tingling or numbness, pain, sensation changes such as an increased or decreased ability to feel things, loss of coordination, or muscle weakness. While neuropathy is most common with diabetes, those with breast cancer are at risk, given that some chemotherapies or radiation treatments can cause nerve damage . Up to 30 or 40% of people undergoing chemotherapy develop neuropathy to some degree, so cryotherapy is a simple, effective way that many breast cancer patients and those in survivorship can help manage the potential symptoms, both during and after treatments. Concurrent administration of cryotherapy to hands and feet during specific chemotherapy treatments has been shown to help inhibit future neuropathy development by limiting the ability of the drug to attack sensitive nerves in the limbs. Specific chemotherapies that have been considered with cold therapy for breast cancer are taxanes such as paclitaxel (Taxol) or docetaxel (Taxotere), which are commonly given to those with metastatic breast cancer. The more you take certain chemotherapies, the higher your risk for peripheral neuropathy: increasing dosage, frequency of treatment, or using a combination therapy can put you at a greater risk of nerve damage. By using cold therapy at the time of treatment, you may be able to more effectively mitigate the onset of future neuropathy. Cold therapy is also something that you can use at home to help with neuropathy symptoms. Using cold therapy can look as simple as using an ice pack on an inflamed area or using an ice bath to help with generalized body pain. Or, if you want something stronger and have the resources for it, it’s also possible to get professional cryotherapy equipment for your home, including liquid nitrogen-chilled cryofans for specific body area treatments or whole-body cryosaunas. Cryotherapy is a newer therapy in cancer care, and because it can reduce blood flow, there are risks that need to be considered. It’s not recommended for people with other medical conditions, such as diabetes, where your ability to detect potential tissue damage is already reduced. If used for too long, cryotherapy can potentially result in skin burns or irritation, hypothermia, or the exacerbation of cardiovascular issues such as high blood pressure. It’s best to consult a healthcare provider if you’re unsure if cryotherapy is right for you. If you're interested in trying out cryotherapy for yourself, check out some of the many products that our partners at NatraCure have to offer:

By Eric Minghella with the Disability Benefits Center If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer and can no longer work, you can file a claim for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSDI is funded by payroll taxes and offers monthly financial compensation to disabled individuals who, at one point, could work but are no longer able to work. As long as you have worked in the past and expect that you won’t be able to work for at least a year because of breast cancer, you may be able to qualify for SSDI benefits. Qualifying For Social Security Disability Benefits Many people assume that having cancer automatically qualifies them for disability benefits. Some cancer types do automatically make someone eligible for disability benefits in the U.S., but not all cancers qualify for this automatic designation. The medical conditions that qualify someone to be approved for disability benefits are all listed in the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book along with the requirements that you must meet to qualify for benefits because of that condition. You will have to submit medical evidence that you meet the requirements in the listings. To qualify for disability benefits because of breast cancer, your cancer must meet one of these conditions: An advanced breast cancer that has extended to the chest, skin, or internal mammary nodes. A carcinoma (cancer starts in the cells of the skin or tissue lining organs) that has spread above or below the collarbone, has spread to 10+ nearby nodes, or has spread to distant regions of the chest. A carcinoma that returns after anticancer therapy. Small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma. You will have to submit a biopsy, mammogram, MRI scans, or any other medical documentation of your cancer that you have to the SSA when you are sending in your application. When you are applying, the SSA will let you know what paperwork to include with your application. Medical Vocational Allowance What happens if your breast cancer is early stage or doesn’t meet the listing requirements above, but the treatment makes it impossible for you to work? Many individuals find themselves in this position. You may still be able to qualify for disability benefits with a Medical Vocational Allowance. To qualify in this regard, you need to have your doctor fill out a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) evaluation. This is a sheet where your doctor can write in detail about your symptoms, your treatment, and why you can’t work. The SSA will look at the RFC form , your work history, your skill set, and other factors to determine if there is any kind of work that you can do with the limitations that you have. If they can’t find any jobs that you can do with the skills you have and the work limitations from breast cancer, then they may declare you eligible for disability benefits. Filing A Claim Don’t wait to file a claim for disability benefits. You can apply easily online . If you need help filing for disability , you can make an appointment to apply in person at an SSA office location. Make sure you have copies of all your medical documentation, and you can submit your claim packet for disability benefits online. ---- Resources: https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/young_women/bringyourbrave/breast_cancer_young_women/index.htm https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/13.00-NeoplasticDiseases-Malignant-Adult.htm - 13_10 https://secure.ssa.gov/apps10/poms/images/SSA4/G-SSA-4734-U8-1.pdf https://www.disabilitybenefitscenter.org/how-to/how-to-file-the-residual-functional-capacity-rfc-form https://www.disabilitybenefitscenter.org/blog/help-apply-for-benefits https://secure.ssa.gov/iClaim/dib

By Kelly Hsu Exercise has numerous positive effects on physical and mental health. Many people are familiar with the relationship between exercise and diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. However, what is the relationship between exercise and breast cancer? Different exercise regimens may work for people at different points of their disease trajectory. A vast body of research has shown the beneficial effects of exercise for patients at all different points of their illnesses. Exercise During Treatment Can Improve Symptoms While chemotherapy can typically cause decreased cardiovascular fitness, a study showed that patients who completed a 12-week supervised exercise program during neoadjuvant chemotherapy had no change in cardiovascular fitness by the end of the program [ 1 ]. One study showed that mobilization stretching exercises improved chest flexibility for patients after breast surgery [ 2 ]. A study demonstrated that breast cancer survivors receiving adjuvant chemotherapy benefited from supervised heavy-load resistance exercise, with no increased risk of lymphedema [ 3 ]. A randomized trial of a resistance exercise intervention in patients starting adjuvant chemotherapy led to decreased physical fatigue and improved quality of life [ 4 ]. Exercise Can Have Beneficial Effects On Cancer Outcomes A study showed that patients who underwent a year-long diet and exercise intervention during neoadjuvant chemotherapy had improved pathological complete response (a prognostic factor associated with longer survival after treatment) than those who received usual care [ 5 ]. Research shows that aerobic and stretching exercises improved quality of life and also reduced depression severity for patients after completing treatment [ 6 ]. A review evaluating various studies looking at diet, exercise, and combined diet and exercise interventions found that fat loss was consistently associated with decreased risk of cancer recurrence [ 7 ]. Reviews across different studies have found that increased physical activity is associated with decreased incidence of breast cancer-related death [ 8 , 9 ]. For cancer survivors, the American Cancer Society recommends starting slowly and building up to “150-300 minutes of moderate intensity (or 75-150 minutes of vigorous intensity) activity each week [ 9 ].” Examples of moderate intensity exercises include but are not limited to brisk walking, tennis, gardening, dance, yoga, or pushing a lawn mower. Vigorous intensity exercises may include jogging, running, hiking, or shoveling. Getting into a regular exercise routine is hard, and even harder after a cancer diagnosis. All exercise plans should be tailored to the individual at their unique stage and recovery progress. If you are at the beginning of treatment, the key is to start gently and do what is appropriate for your body without overexerting yourself. Even light walks can go a long way in improving physical health and mood. Keep in mind that it is always important to consult your clinician prior to starting any new exercise programs. Exercise can be done alone, but evidence also shows that group exercise can have a tremendous impact on improving mental wellness in addition to physical wellness. If you are looking for a place to start or supplement your current exercise regimen, 2Unstoppable is a non-profit offering a multitude of oncology fitness resources, including the option to be connected to an in-person or virtual fitness partner. “It is well known that a fitness buddy or exercise community motivates us to get up and move … moreover, with a group or buddy, we are likely to exercise harder, more consistently, and for the longer term. The magic is that it is actually a reciprocal relationship. Motivation and accountability from others helps get us moving, but physical activity also opens us up to connect further with other women, helping us to find the emotional support women with breast cancer really need. In her book The Joy of Movement , Kelly McGonigal posits that ‘regular exercise may lower your threshold for feeling connected to others – allowing for more spontaneous feelings of closeness, companionship, and belonging.’ Further, ‘the link between physical activity and social connections offers a compelling reason to be active. It also serves as an important reminder that we humans need one another to thrive.’ 2Unstoppable leverages that important link to help more women improve their own outcomes. 2Unstoppable offers the unique combination of oncology exercise, coupled with social support, offered on the virtual platform, and designed specifically for women with cancer. 2Unstoppable offers education, oncology exercise classes, monthly challenges, resources, and a free online fitness buddy matching program – all to inspire and support women with a cancer diagnosis to get moving and improve their own outcomes.” - Michelle Stravitz, CEO & Co-Founder of 2Unstoppable Check out SBC’s upcoming events for free virtual movement programs! Learn More: The Benefits of Exercise The Healing Power of Movement I Know That I Am Not Alone In This Experience Exercise is Good for Everybody No Matter Your Weight, Shape, or Size, You Matter. References: Teplinsky, E., Podolski, A., Bessada, K., Rutledge, J., Burke, B., Christoudias, M., Klein, L., & Abbate, K. (December 2022). Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy: Results from the STRENGTH Trial. Poster presented at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, San Antonio, TX. Wilson D. J. (2017). Exercise for the Patient after Breast Cancer Surgery. Seminars in oncology nursing , 33 (1), 98–105. Bloomquist, K., Adamsen, L., Hayes, S. C., Lillelund, C., Andersen, C., Christensen, K. B., Oturai, P., Ejlertsen, B., Tuxen, M. K., & Møller, T. (2019). Heavy-load resistance exercise during chemotherapy in physically inactive breast cancer survivors at risk for lymphedema: a randomized trial. Acta oncologica (Stockholm, Sweden) , 58 (12), 1667–1675. Schmidt, M. E., Wiskemann, J., Armbrust, P., Schneeweiss, A., Ulrich, C. M., & Steindorf, K. (2015). Effects of resistance exercise on fatigue and quality of life in breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy: A randomized controlled trial. International journal of cancer , 137 (2), 471–480. Ferrucci, L., Sanft, T. B., Harrigan, M., Cartmel, B., Li, F., Zupa, M., McGowan, C., Puklin, L., Nguyen, T. H., Tanasijevic, A. M., Neuhouser, M. L., Hershman, D., Basen-Engquist, K., Jones, B., Knobf, T., Chagpar, A. B., Silber, A. L. M., Ligibel, J. A., & Irwin, M. L. (December 2022). Randomized trial of exercise and nutrition on pathological complete response among women with breast cancer receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy: the Lifestyle, Exercise and Nutrition Early after Diagnosis (LEANer) Study. Poster presented at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, San Antonio, TX. Aydin, M., Kose, E., Odabas, I., Bindul, B. M., Demirci, D., & Aydin Z. (2021). The Effect of Exercise on Life Quality and Depression Levels of Breast Cancer Patients. Asian pacific journal of cancer prevention, 22(3) , 725-732. Dieli-Conwright, C.M., Lee, K. & Kiwata, J.L. Reducing the Risk of Breast Cancer Recurrence: an Evaluation of the Effects and Mechanisms of Diet and Exercise. Curr Breast Cancer Rep 8, 139–150 (2016). Lahart, I. M., Metsios, G. S., Nevill, A. M., & Carmichael, A. R. (2015). Physical activity, risk of death and recurrence in breast cancer survivors: A systematic review and meta-analysis of epidemiological studies. Acta oncologica (Stockholm, Sweden), 54(5), 635–654. Spei, M. E., Samoli, E., Bravi, F., La Vecchia, C., Bamia, C., & Benetou, V. (2019). Physical activity in breast cancer survivors: A systematic review and meta-analysis on overall and breast cancer survival. Breast (Edinburgh, Scotland), 44, 144–152. American Cancer Society. (2020 June 9). Physical Activity and the Person With Cancer. https://www.cancer.org/healthy/eat-healthy-get-active/acs-guidelines-nutrition-physical-activity-cancer-prevention/guidelines.html Author bio: Kelly Hsu I am a recent graduate of Wellesley College (Class of ‘21), where I studied neuroscience. I am currently working as a Clinical Research Coordinator at the Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center on several patient-centered outcomes research studies. Through my experiences, I have developed passions for health education, psychosocial oncology, and palliative care. I plan to attend medical school next fall, where I hope to keep pursuing these interests. SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetup s Free Events

Boston, MA — September 4, 2025  – SurvivingBreastCancer.org (SBC) is pleased to announce a new collaboration with Tonya Orchard, PhD, MS, RD, Professor of Human Nutrition, Director, Didactic Program in Dietetics, The Ohio State University, and Maryam Lustberg, MD, MPH, Director, Center for Breast Cancer; Chief, Breast Medical Oncology, Yale Cancer Center, on the Food for Thought  study. This innovative research explores the connection between nutrition and cognitive health in women undergoing treatment for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). The Food for Thought  study is a fully remote clinical trial designed to understand how personalized nutrition counseling may impact brain health during and after cancer treatment. Eligible participants—women ages 40–65 who have recently been diagnosed with stage II–III TNBC—will be randomly assigned to receive either a 12-week personalized nutrition intervention with a registered dietitian or a general healthy lifestyle program. Both groups will participate in virtual visits, receive support, and complete follow-up assessments over a nine-month period. “Cancer care is not just about treating the disease—it’s about supporting the whole person,” said Laura Carfang , Founder and Executive Director of SurvivingBreastCancer.org . “We know cancer can have lasting effects on cognitive ability, and nutrition is a powerful tool in protecting and improving brain health. This study aligns with our mission to provide holistic, patient-centered support that improves quality of life.” Participants will benefit from: Free nutrition counseling by a registered dietitian-nutritionist Free select foods during the intervention A Fitbit to support healthy lifestyle changes The convenience of a fully remote study (no travel required) SBC is proud to support this study as part of its ongoing commitment to addressing the long-term effects of breast cancer and survivorship. By investing in research at the intersection of nutrition, cognition, and cancer care, SBC continues to advance innovative approaches that empower patients and caregivers throughout the cancer journey. About SurvivingBreastCancer.org SurvivingBreastCancer.org is a national nonprofit dedicated to providing free, accessible, and supportive programs for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer and their families. Through educational resources, weekly support groups, expressive arts programs, and a library of on-demand podcasts and videos, SBC serves thousands of patients annually, helping them navigate treatment and survivorship with confidence, compassion, and community. Media Contact Name:  Laura Carfang Title:  Founder & Executive Director, SurvivingBreastCancer.org Email:   laura@survivingbreastcancer.org Website:   www.SurvivingBreastCancer.org

By Ashley Bell Read Ashley’s metastatic breast cancer story: My De Novo MBC Story: I’m Not Going to Give Up on My Diagnosis Ashley Bell at SABCS 2024 The San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium (SABCS) is one of the largest breast cancer conferences in the world. 2024 marked the 47th year of the conference, which attracts academics, clinicians and researchers involved in breast cancer in medical, surgical, gynaecological and radiation oncology, as well as patient advocates and other health care professionals. I attended SABCS with SurvivingBreastCancer.org as a 2024 SBC Educational Scholarship recipient. The symposium reflects significant input from advocates who have left their impression on the event over the last half-century. What was started as solely a scientific conference focused on the distribution of information on the biology, cause, prevention, diagnosis, and therapy of breast cancer and premalignant breast disease has evolved to include input from the people who live with it. Patient advocacy has evolved from a handful of grassroots organizations to highly organized networks of knowledgeable, trained, passionate champions for advancement in the understanding and treatment of breast cancer . They have evolved around special interests based on cancer type, domestic situation, ethnicity, gender, location, etc. All share a common enemy — breast cancer. Thousands of advocates attend SABCS , both in person and virtually. They participate, learn, advocate, and educate, all to advance breast cancer care, therapies, and treatment for those who are paying the physical and emotional costs of living with this disease. Here’s a recap of my week: Tuesday: I attended a few networking events. One of them was put on by Lyndsay Levingston, founder of SurviveHER. I was also introduced to a new technology in breast cancer screening called Bexa. Breast exams with Bexa are an inexpensive form of early detection that can be brought into every community. The process is highly adopted by all women, and can be delivered from safe, accessible sites in the community like churches, or from small, simple sites in rural communities. Bexa has the ability to overcome the challenges that today leave women without an option, or without an option they will choose. Wednesday-Friday: I represented SBC at our booth in the patient pavilion of the exhibition hall. I introduced people to the organization, made some connections, and some lifelong friends. Ashley Bell, SBC Educational Scholarship recipient, with SBC Director of Programs & Events Elisa Herrera and SBC Early Stage Leadership Team volunteer Julie Cottrill at SABCS 2024 SBC was well represented throughout SABCS. I was glad to attend the symposium alongside another patient advocate through the SBC Educational Scholarship Program . Breast cancer is a complex group of diseases that occur in a complex world. SurvivingBreastCancer.org never shies away from asking critical questions about how issues of screening, treatment, and diagnosis impact people living with and at risk of the disease. SurvivingBreastCancer.org’s work is evidence-based and social justice-focused. SBC sees past the hype and calls for more effective, less toxic treatments that truly make a difference in the lives of people who need them. The organization strives to reveal the ways in which inequities, barriers to healthcare, and environmental exposures produced by larger systems drive the breast cancer crisis AND disparities in diagnosis, treatment, and mortality. SurvivingBreastCancer.org representation at SABCS 2024 Read More: My De Novo MBC Story: I’m Not Going to Give Up on My Diagnosis Understanding Advanced Treatment Options for Metastatic Breast Cancer Questions to Ask Your Doctor After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis Addressing the Unique Challenges of Breast Cancer in People Under 40 On the Podcast: Breast Cancer Conversations Patient Advocate Tips for Attending SABCS Share your story, poetry, or art: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/submit-breast-cancer-story SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetup s Free Events

What is Immunotherapy? Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that seeks to harness the power of the body’s immune system to fight cancer. It works by stimulating or “training” the body’s own natural defense system to recognize and attack cancer cells, essentially giving it the ability to seek out and eliminate tumor cells on its own. Immunotherapy has recently been used in the treatment of metastatic breast cancer (MBC). Examples of breast cancer immunotherapy include monoclonal antibodies, checkpoint inhibitors, cytokine therapy, and adoptive cell therapies. Monoclonal Antibodie s Monoclonal antibodies are proteins produced in the laboratory that are designed to recognize specific targets on or within cancer cells. They then attach to these targets and either mark the cancer cells for destruction by other parts of the immune system or directly block signals used by the cancer cells to survive and grow. Checkpoint Inhibitors Checkpoint inhibitors are drugs that target proteins on T-cells (a type of white blood cell), which prevent them from recognizing and attacking cancer cells. By blocking these proteins, checkpoint inhibitors can help enhance an immune response against breast cancer. Cytokine Therapy Cytokine therapy is a type of treatment that uses naturally occurring substances in the body called cytokines. Cytokines can be injected into the body to help stimulate an immune response against breast cancer cells and promote tumor regression. Adoptive Cell Therapies Adoptive cell therapies involve taking T-cells from a patient, modifying them in the laboratory to make them recognize and attach to cancer cells, then infusing them back into the patient. Adoptive cell therapies can help boost an immune response against breast cancer cells and may be useful for treating metastatic disease. Immunotherapy has emerged as a promising treatment option for many types of cancer, including metastatic breast cancer. However, not all patients respond to immunotherapy, and it can be difficult to monitor the response in those who do receive treatment. How Do You Know If Your Immunotherapy Treatment is Working? One way to monitor response to immunotherapy in metastatic breast cancer is through imaging studies such as computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These imaging studies can provide information on tumor size and whether the tumor is shrinking, stable, or growing. However, changes in tumor size may not always be a reliable indicator of response to immunotherapy, as some patients may experience immune-related adverse events that can cause inflammation and swelling around the tumor, leading to an increase in tumor size even if the tumor is responding to treatment. Another way to monitor response to immunotherapy is through biomarker analysis. Biomarkers are molecular or genetic signatures that can be measured in blood or tissue samples. In the context of immunotherapy, biomarkers such as tumor mutational burden (TMB), programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression, and immune cell infiltration can be used to predict response to immunotherapy and monitor response over time. TMB is a measure of the number of mutations present in a tumor, and tumors with high TMB are more likely to respond to immunotherapy. PD-L1 expression is a marker of immune evasion, and tumors that express high levels of PD-L1 may be more responsive to immunotherapy. Immune cell infiltration, as measured by the density of T cells or other immune cells within the tumor, can also be used to predict response to immunotherapy. In addition to imaging and biomarker analysis, clinical assessment of symptoms and quality of life can also be used to monitor response to immunotherapy in metastatic breast cancer patients. Patients who are responding to immunotherapy may experience improvements in symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and difficulty breathing, as well as improvements in overall quality of life . Overall, monitoring response to immunotherapy in the metastatic breast cancer setting requires a multifaceted approach that incorporates imaging studies, biomarker analysis, and clinical assessment of symptoms and quality of life. By using a combination of these methods, clinicians can more accurately assess response to treatment and tailor treatment strategies to individual patients. What is Signatera? Recently, a new technology called Signatera has been developed to look for circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in the blood of breast cancer patients. CtDNA is a form of genetic material that is shed from cancer cells into the bloodstream and can be used to monitor response to immunotherapy. Signatera uses next-generation sequencing technology to look for mutations in ctDNA that are unique to that patient’s tumor. This technology can be used to detect the presence of ctDNA and track changes in ctDNA over time, which can provide valuable information on response to immunotherapy. Signatera is an exciting new tool that has the potential to revolutionize the way we monitor response to immunotherapy in breast cancer patients. By providing a more accurate assessment of patient response, Signatera could improve clinical outcomes and lead to better treatment decisions for breast cancer patients receiving immunotherapy. How Does Signatera Work? Signatera is a molecular test that uses ctDNA to monitor response to cancer therapy and detect residual disease in MBC patients undergoing immunotherapy. This technology allows for real-time tracking of the tumor’s genetic signature, allowing clinicians to make decisions about treatment more quickly and accurately than ever before. Signatera can also be used to measure minimal residual disease (MRD), which can predict recurrence or metastasis in MBC patients receiving immunotherapy. By monitoring ctDNA levels, Signatera has the potential to increase accuracy in treatment evaluation, improve patient outcomes, and reduce healthcare costs associated with ineffective treatments. Conclusion Overall, breast cancer immunotherapy offers an exciting new approach to treating this disease, and there are many different treatments available. We also understand that the uncertainty of a breast cancer diagnosis and the anxiety of wanting to know if your treatment plan is working is real. Talk to your healthcare provider about which options might be right for you. Learn more about Signatera You Might Also Like: Addressing Breast Cancer Recurrence in High-Risk Patients Breast Cancer Recurrence: Second Primary versus Metastasis Reducing the Risk of Breast Cancer Recurrence Navigating Cancer Treatment: Top Tips from an Oncology Pharmacist Unlocking the Power of Emotional Intelligence SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetup s Free Events

After the numbing tidal wave of emotion following a breast cancer diagnosi s —the fear, anxiety, shock, anger, and disbelief—it’s hard to comprehend the enormity of what lies ahead. It may take time to adjust to your new reality as someone with breast cancer. Despite the overwhelming emotions, you must navigate the labyrinth of treatment options. It’s a lot to grasp, requiring careful consideration, and probably includes a crash course about the pros and cons of treatment and possible breast reconstruction surgery. Once diagnosed, many women undergo a mastectomy or lumpectomy to remove the affected breast tissue. Following this, they often face a decision about whether to have breast reconstruction surgery . While reconstruction can help restore the breast’s appearance, there are advantages and disadvantages to consider when deciding if it is right for you. The choice to have breast reconstruction surgery is highly personal ; however, understanding the pros and cons can help you make an informed decision. The Basics of Breast Reconstruction Surgery Breast reconstruction surgery is a procedure often performed to restore the shape, size, and appearance of a person’s breast after a mastectomy or lumpectomy . The surgery can be performed at the same time as the mastectomy (immediate reconstruction) or a later date (delayed reconstruction). In some cases, doctors recommend waiting if follow-up treatments like radiation are needed, as they may damage reconstruction results. The two main types are implant reconstruction , which uses silicone or saline breast implants, and autologous, or “flap” reconstruction , which uses tissue from another part of the patient’s body. The American Cancer Society provides an excellent, detailed guide on the basics of these procedures. Pro: Restoration of Body Image and Self-Esteem One of the most significant benefits of breast reconstruction is the potential to restore body image and self-esteem after breast cancer. Many women report feeling more confident and comfortable with their bodies post-reconstruction . Breast reconstruction aims to achieve symmetry between the two breasts, which can be especially helpful for those with a unilateral (one-sided) mastectomy. Con: Potential Complications and Risks Like any surgery, breast reconstruction has potential risks and complications . These can include infection, bleeding, pain, and complications relating to anesthesia. Additionally, there can be complications specific to the type of reconstruction, like an implant rupture or flap failure . Pro: Choice and Control Breast reconstruction offers women a degree of choice and control over their bodies post-cancer. It allows them to choose how they wish to appear after a mastectomy or lumpectomy, providing a sense of agency when many aspects of life may feel out of control. Con: Additional Surgeries and Recovery Time Breast reconstruction often requires multiple surgeries, particularly in the case of flap reconstruction. It can mean more time in the hospital , more recovery time, and more time away from work or other responsibilities. Pro: Improved Clothing Fit Many women report that clothes fit better after breast reconstruction. It can make shopping and dressing more enjoyable and less stressful, aiding recovery and improving quality of life . Con: May Delay Return to Normal Activities The recovery period following breast reconstruction surgery can be lengthy, potentially delaying your return to normal activities, work, or exercise . Each person’s recovery timeline will be different, and it’s crucial to consider personal circumstances when thinking about this surgery. Pro: Eliminate the Need for External Prostheses Some people choose between using a prosthesis or breast reconstruction surgery. Women who choose reconstruction surgery won’t need to use and maintain external prostheses. Surgery can be convenient for those who are active or find prostheses uncomfortable. Making an Informed Decision Deciding on reconstructive breast surgery is a personal choice that depends on each individual’s unique situation . Consulting with your cancer treatment team and plastic surgeon can help you weigh your specific pros and cons. While reconstruction has benefits, it also carries risks that need careful consideration. Count On Us for Information, Resources, and Support Whether you’re newly diagnosed with breast cancer , are navigating survivorship, or are the loved one of someone experiencing breast cancer, you can count on SurvivingBreastCancer.org to keep you informed. We provide educational information to help you better understand symptoms , testing, treatment options , surgery, etc., and podcasts that feature professionals, advocates, and caregivers who share valuable information. Your donations enable SurvivingBreastCancer.org to offer resources and support every day, every month, and every year. Note: This article is designed to provide general information and is not meant to replace professional medical advice. Always discuss your options with your healthcare provider. Learn more: Newly Diagnosed. Now What? Surgery Options The Choice to Go Flat DIEP Flap Results On the Podcast: Breast Cancer Conversations The Importance of Physical Therapy in Breast Cancer Recovery with Expert Derly Munoz DIEP Flap Reconstruction: What you need to know about Changes in Insurance Codes Mastectomy Recovery Tips: What I wish I had known SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetup s Free Events

By Stacey Devine, MD Many women gain weight or experience an increase in body fat percentage after a breast cancer diagnosis. These metabolic changes increase the risk of recurrence and other complications like diabetes and heart disease. Understanding why this happens can help you make lifestyle changes to support your health. Continue reading to learn about various factors that can contribute to weight gain during and after breast cancer treatment, and what you can do to address them. How Does Breast Cancer Treatment Cause Weight Gain? Breast cancer treatments themselves may contribute to weight gain and changes in body composition. Women who receive chemotherapy have an increased risk of weight gain and metabolic dysfunction. Studies on weight gain from hormone-blocking medications like tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors are mixed. However, a recent study found that women who have more side effects from these medications are at an increased risk of weight gain. Joint pain from aromatase inhibitors can make exercise more difficult. Many cancer treatments are believed to negatively impact the gut microbiome, which can also increase weight gain. How Treatment Side Effects Can Impact Your Weight Side effects during treatment can impact weight gain and metabolic changes, and therefore need to be addressed more fully. Fatigue makes participating in physical activities more challenging. Sleep-disrupting hot flashes and insomnia are common in breast cancer survivors. Poor sleep can impact hormones like leptin and ghrelin , which impact food cravings and hunger cues. Sleep issues and chronic stress from a cancer diagnosis can also increase cortisol levels . Cortisol can increase insulin, decrease metabolism, and increase the storage of visceral fat in the belly. What Can You Do About These Changes? Breast cancer survivors need to understand the risk of these metabolic changes for their health. They also need support to adopt a proactive approach and maintain their overall well-being. Below are a few practical tips to help you manage weight gain and a healthier lifestyle throughout survivorship. Engage in Regular Physical Activity Even if you are in active treatment, try to move your body daily. You may need to lower your intensity or do shorter sessions, but even some movement is beneficial. Patients who exercise regularly typically tolerate their treatments better. Stay Hydrated Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Our bodies can confuse thirst with hunger, and staying well hydrated can reduce cravings and support your metabolism. Avoid sugary drinks, as these can easily add hundreds of calories a day to your diet and have no nutritional value. Incorporate Balanced Meals Include a mix of protein, healthy fats, whole grains, and an abundance of vegetables and fruits. Try to get the majority of your diet from whole food sources to make sure you are getting plenty of essential nutrients. Prioritize Quality Sleep Set yourself up for success with a relaxing bedtime routine to promote better sleep habits. Keep your bedroom dark, cool, and quiet to facilitate deep sleep. Manage Stress Techniques like meditation , breathing exercises , journaling , and spending time in nature can all help reduce stress and stress hormones. If side effects from your treatments are not relieved by lifestyle measures and are negatively impacting your quality of life, consider an integrative oncology consultation. Integrative oncology providers are trained to help patients with cancer reduce side effects from their treatments and improve their quality of life. Many of the factors contributing to weight gain may be outside of your control. However, you have the power to take control of your well-being and make positive changes to support your health journey. By focusing on what you can control and your lifestyle choices, you can build a strong foundation for a healthier life after breast cancer treatment. Learn more: Exercise and Breast Cancer Reducing the Risk of Recurrence No Matter Your Weight, Shape, or Size, You Matter. On the Podcast: Breast Cancer Conversations Diet, Exercise, and a Breast Cancer Vaccine, Oh My! With Judith Fitzgerald Metabolic Health and Breast Cancer Brings Clinical Trials for TNBC and MBC Patients What You Need To Know About Your Metabolic Health and Breast Cancer SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetup s Free Events Submit Your Writing: SBC Blog Submissions

By Kiara Ford The MBC ribbon is green, pink, and teal. Most people, even those who have never experienced cancer, are familiar with the concept of stages used to classify the extent of the disease. It is through this awareness that much of the public has come to hold a deep fear of the highest classification, stage IV. This stage of breast cancer is also known as metastatic breast cancer, or MBC. Stage IV breast cancer has no cure. Because metastatic breast cancer is a life-threatening terminal diagnosis, it often carries associations that can make it difficult or uncomfortable to discuss. Nevertheless, it is estimated that over 168,000 people in the United States alone are living with metastatic breast cancer . Those living with MBC must be included in conversations about breast cancer, including treatments, quality of life, and clinical trials. The unique experience of advanced breast cancer must be understood within the community. While October is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM) and October 13 has been designated Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day , there is more we can do to foster a greater comprehension of stage IV breast cancer. People living with this terminal diagnosis need to be heard and seen. Metastatic breast cancer needs to have a seat and a voice at the table. Continue reading to learn more about what metastatic breast cancer is and how it is diagnosed and treated. What is Metastatic Breast Cancer? Metastatic breast cancer is the term used to describe when cancer that was originally located in the breast spreads, or metastasizes, to other distant parts of the body. Cancer cells can spread in many different (sometimes concurrent) ways, such as traveling through the body via lymph nodes or the circulatory system, invading healthy cells or capillaries, and forming tumors in new locations in the body. Metastatic breast cancer is most often found in the bones, lungs, liver, and brain . Symptoms of metastatic breast cancer can vary based on where the disease has metastasized. What are the Symptoms of Metastatic Breast Cancer? General symptoms of metastatic breast cancer can include loss of energy or appetite, in addition to more specific symptoms varying based on where the cancer has spread. People with metastasis to the bones may experience swelling, bone pain, and be more susceptible to fractures. Metastasis to the liver may cause jaundice, rash or skin irritation, abdominal pain, vomiting or nausea, and high liver enzyme counts in the blood. Metastasis to the lung can cause chronic cough, difficulty breathing, chest pain, and abnormal chest X-ray images. Metastasis to the brain can cause vomiting or nausea, behavioral changes, seizures, persistent and worsening headaches, and difficulty with vision, speech, and memory. It is important to notify a doctor as soon as these symptoms emerge, particularly if you have already been diagnosed with breast cancer or have a family history of breast cancer. While these are general symptoms, it is important to know that symptoms do not always present. Therefore, it is important to stay up-to-date with your mammograms, breast screenings, doctors’ appointments, and follow-ups. How is Metastatic Breast Cancer Diagnosed? The diagnosis process for metastatic breast cancer often resembles that of other cancer types. It begins with a conversation with a doctor to analyze family history and current symptoms. This is followed by tests , the nature of which vary based on the symptoms experienced. Doctors may recommend genetic testing, imaging, blood tests, or biopsies. Those diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer have often already been diagnosed and treated for breast cancer in the past, and are experiencing recurrence. Only about 6-10% of people receive metastatic breast cancer as their initial diagnosis, referred to as de novo metastatic breast cancer . How is Metastatic Breast Cancer Treated? Treatment of metastatic breast cancer will vary based on the individual patient. Factors such as where the cancer has metastasized, genetic predisposition , biomarkers discovered through biopsy, and personal goals will shape individual treatment plans. If the cancer is recurrent, doctors will also factor in previous treatments when deciding on the best course of action. Typically, surgery and radiation therapy are more difficult in cases where the cancer is widespread, but they may be useful in some circumstances, particularly in managing symptoms caused by the cancer. Most often, treatment for hormone-positive metastatic breast cancer consists of hormonal therapies and chemotherapy to shrink or slow the growth of cancer cells. Treatment will also aim to manage the symptoms caused by the cancer, in order to focus on not just quantity, but quality of life. Clinical trials aim to develop new treatments for metastatic breast cancer, and can provide additional treatment options for those living with MBC. Learn more in the Clinical Trials section of our website and on the Breast Cancer Conversations podcast. There is currently no cure for metastatic breast cancer. Ongoing MBC research is dedicated to understanding causes and risk factors, creating new treatment options, and improving the comfort of those living with metastatic breast cancer. SurvivingBreastCancer.org offers meetups and programs tailored specifically for those living with metastatic breast cancer. Join us at Thursday Night Thrivers or an upcoming installment of our MBC Webinar Series ! MBC Resources: Join Our Thursday Night MBC Meetup Newly Diagnosed with MBC Living With MBC MBC Stories: Chapter Three of My Breast Cancer Journey My De Novo MBC Story: I’m Not Going to Give Up on My Diagnosis HOPE is my Favorite Four-Letter Word On the Podcast: Breast Cancer Conversations Finding Strength and Joy in Parenting with Metastatic Breast Cancer A bout the Author: Kiara Ford is a recent graduate of Emerson College, where she majored in communication studies and minored in health and society. She is currently a community health worker trainee with the non-profit organization Asian Women for Health. She is passionate about patient advocacy and health equity, and hopes to raise awareness and increase understanding of patients’ rights through her work. From the Same Author: Breast Cancer and Healthcare Access Within the Hispanic Community Inflammatory Breast Cancer: Breaking Down the Basics

Breast cancer is a global concern, touching the lives of countless women. What if we could better understand its roots, specifically the role of our hormones ? Continue reading as we unravel the intimate dance between hormones and breast cancer. We’ll review what hormones are commonly associated with breast cancer and differentiate between types of breast cancer  and treatment based on hormone status. What Are Hormones? Hormones are chemical messengers produced by the endocrine glands in our body. They travel through the bloodstream to tissues and organs, influencing many bodily processes, including growth, metabolism, and reproductive functions. Among the many hormones, estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are particularly relevant when it comes to breast cancer. Hormonal Influence on Breast Cancer According to the National Cancer Institute , breast cancer’s growth can sometimes be fueled by the body’s natural female hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone. These cancer cells possess receptors on their surface that can bind to hormones circulating in the body. As a result, hormone receptors—proteins that pick up hormone signals—are routinely tested during a breast cancer diagnosis . Understanding the hormone sensitivity of your breast cancer assists your doctor in determining the most effective treatment strategy or in preventing recurrence. Hormone Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer When breast cancer cells have receptors for estrogen and progesterone, they are termed ER-positive or PR-positive, respectively. They rely on these hormones to grow. Hormone Receptor-Negative Breast Cancer If breast cancer cells lack these receptors, termed ER-negative or PR-negative, they don’t rely on hormones for growth and usually require different treatment approaches. Estrogen and Breast Cancer Estrogen is an important hormone involved in the normal development of breast tissue. It promotes cell growth and division in the breasts and other areas of the body. However, prolonged exposure to high estrogen levels  over time increases the risk of developing breast cancer . Several factors can lead to excessive cumulative estrogen exposure: Early onset of menstruation (before age 12) Late onset of menopause (after age 55) Obesity Hormone replacement therapy Alcohol consumption Approximately  60% to 70% of all breast cancers are estrogen receptor (ER)-positive, meaning the cancer cells have estrogen receptors and depend on estrogen for growth. For those with ER-positive breast cancer, standard treatment involves blocking estrogen’s effects or reducing estrogen levels.  Progesterone and Breast Cancer Progesterone is another hormone that controls breast development and growth. Excessive exposure to progesterone over time may also contribute to breast cancer risk . Research shows that progesterone receptors (PR) are present in about 60% of breast cancers. Of the different hormone receptor statuses, breast cancer that is both ER-positive and PR-positive tends to have a more favorable prognosis and more successful treatment outcomes. However, some breast cancers are ER-positive and PR-negative. These cancers tend to be more aggressive and have lower survival rates than ER/PR double-positive breast cancers. ER/PR Negative, Triple-Negative, and Triple-Positive Breast Cancer Hormone receptor-negative breast cancer cells lack receptors for estrogen (ER) and progesterone (PR), meaning these cancer cells do not increase in response to hormonal influences. Approximately 25-30% of all breast cancer cases are represented by this type of breast cancer . In triple-positive breast cancer , the proliferation of tumor cells is primarily influenced by the presence of estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), a protein commonly found in breast cells. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells are characterized by the absence of estrogen and progesterone receptors and do not overexpress the HER2 protein. This type of cancer is more prevalent in women under 40 years old, particularly among Black women or those with a mutation in the BRCA1 gene. Testosterone, Androgens, and Breast Cancer Both men and women produce testosterone and other androgens. In men, androgens are responsible for male sex characteristics. However, higher levels of circulating androgens originating from the adrenal glands are linked to increased breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women. Testosterone and other androgens may directly stimulate breast cell growth or be converted in fat tissue to estrogen, which can then spur cancer development and progression. Obesity is a risk factor for breast cancer and is associated with higher androgen levels. While much more research is still needed, targeting androgen activity is an emerging area of interest for specific breast cancer treatments. Hormone Therapy and Breast Cancer Treatment Hormone therapies, like tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors , are designed to block the effects of hormones or reduce their levels in the body. They are especially beneficial for hormone receptor-positive breast cancers, and the following hormone therapies serve estrogen-related purposes: Tamoxifen: Blocks estrogen’s effect on breast cancer cells Aromatase Inhibitors:  Lower the amount of estrogen produced in postmenopausal women Ovarian Suppression:  Premenopausal women might receive treatments to stop the ovaries from producing estrogen Although they are considered effective, hormone therapies can have side effects. Discuss potential risks and benefits with your healthcare professional. Count On Us for Information, Resources, and Support  Estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and other hormones play significant and complex roles in the origins and behavior of breast cancer. Understanding these relationships has led to improved risk assessment, screening, prevention, and treatment approaches that consider hormone receptor status and other factors. Continued research on hormone-related mechanisms will help further advance breast cancer care and outcomes. Whether you’re newly diagnosed with breast cancer , are navigating survivorship, or are the loved one of someone experiencing breast cancer, you can count on SurvivingBreastCancer.org to keep you informed. We provide educational information to help you better understand symptoms , testing, treatment options , surgery, etc., and podcasts  that feature professionals, advocates, and caregivers who share valuable information. Your donations  enable SurvivingBreastCancer.org to offer resources and support every day, every month, and every year.  Note: This article is designed to provide general information and not replace professional medical advice. Always discuss your options with your healthcare provider. Learn more: Excess Estrogen, Gene Testing, and Beyond The Promise of the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Vaccine Newly Diagnosed Different Types of Breast Cancer Understanding Your Pathology Report On the Podcast: Breast Cancer Conversations Triple Positive Breast Cancer Under 30 SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetup s Free Events

In this article, we debunk common myths and provide factual insights into the use of herbal remedies and supplements in breast cancer. We emphasize the importance of informed decisions and consultation with healthcare providers when considering complementary therapies in the breast cancer journey. Navigating breast cancer treatment often leads individuals to explore various complementary therapies, including herbal remedies and supplements. While these options may promise benefits, understanding the myths and facts surrounding their efficacy and safety is crucial for individuals seeking complementary support. Myth #1 : Herbal Remedies Alone Can Cure Breast Cancer While early-stage breast cancer is treatable, if not curable, there is no known cure for metastatic breast cancer (also known as Stage IV breast cancer). Herbal remedies and supplements are not standalone treatments for breast cancer. They are complementary and should not replace conventional medical treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. There is insufficient scientific evidence to support claims that herbs or supplements cure cancer. You should always speak with your medical team about any herbal supplements you are considering, as some supplements may interfere with your current treatments.  Myth #2: All Herbal Remedies are Safe Not all herbal remedies and supplements are safe, and some may interfere with cancer treatments or pose risks. For instance, consider some of the following possible herbal interactions: St. John's Wort: Can interfere with chemotherapy drugs and reduce their effectiveness Soy Supplements: Contain phytoestrogens that may affect hormone-sensitive breast cancer treatments Green Tea Extract: May interfere with certain medications or exacerbate side effects Myth #3 : "Natural" Means Safe Natural does not always equate to safe. In fact, several products have started utilizing the term “natural” in their branding and marketing, as consumers equate “natural” with health. Herbal remedies and supplements can have potent active ingredients that may interact with medications or cause adverse effects. Don’t be fooled by labels! Always consult with healthcare providers before incorporating new remedies into your treatment plan. Myth #4: All Herbal Products are Regulated and Standardized Herbal supplements are not rigorously regulated like prescription medications. They may vary in quality, purity, and potency, making it challenging to ensure consistency or safety across different brands or products. Ask your healthcare provider about the efficacy of incorporating specific herbal supplements into your breast cancer treatment. Myth #5: Herbal Remedies Have No Side Effects Herbal remedies and supplements can have side effects or interactions with medications. For example, consider the following negative interactions between supplements and cancer treatment: Echinacea: May cause allergic reactions or interact with immunosuppressant medications Garlic Supplements: Can thin the blood and increase the risk of bleeding, particularly during surgery In some cases, herbal remedies and supplements have been linked to liver damage, kidney problems, or other adverse effects. Inform healthcare providers about any supplements you're taking to avoid potential complications. Conclusion: Make Informed Choices While herbal remedies and supplements may offer potential benefits, it's crucial to approach them cautiously. Consult with healthcare providers before incorporating any supplements into your breast cancer treatment plan. Emphasize open communication to ensure the safe integration of complementary therapies alongside conventional treatments.

As we reach the end of May, which marks Mental Health Awareness Month, it feels as appropriate a time as any to discuss the benefits of seeing a therapist. Even if you have a great support system of family and friends who are always happy to lend an ear, you may want to consider finding a mental health professional to further help you through this time. This applies whether you're currently going through treatment, are no evidence of disease (NED), have a parent or sibling diagnosed, or are a caregiver for a loved one with breast cancer. Mental health professionals such as social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists are trained to help their people work through the spectrum of emotions you may be feeling- from the sadness and grief of a recent diagnosis , to the elation of your doctor declaring you cancer free, to the stress and fear of whether the cancer might recur or progress. Many mental health professionals specialize in working with patients with specific experiences, so finding a therapist specializing in the cancer arena may be especially helpful. Support groups led by one of these mental health professionals can be another way to access therapy while also benefiting from connecting with other breast cancer survivors. As always, let us know your thoughts and how you’d like to contribute to the discussion. Finding the right therapist for you Even survivors of cancer who have no mental health symptoms are urged to reach out to a counselor who specializes in post-cancer care. Research shows that fewer than a third of cancer survivors talk about mental health issues with their doctors, even though they are at high risk for anxiety and depression. Talking to a counselor early on can help keep issues from getting serious. Read More . Psychological and social aspects of breast cancer Although serious depression is not seen in the majority of breast cancer patients and survivors, many will experience treatment-related distress, fear of recurrence, changes in body image, and sexuality. This paper discusses the importance of identifying the psychological and social concerns of breast cancer patients in the medical setting, and assisting them in obtaining appropriate psychosocial services. Read More . Therapy can benefit both patients and their caregivers Partners can also be suffering. In one study, for example, men whose partners were diagnosed with breast cancer were nearly 40% more likely than other men to be hospitalized for severe depression and other mood disorders. Psychologists can help spouses manage the challenge of offering both emotional and practical support while dealing with their own feelings. Read More. Different types of mental health professionals and how they can help There are several ways to seek mental health help. Choosing what is most effective or helpful can be based on personal preference, cost, and what is available in your community. This article breaks down how social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists each use different approaches to help their patients with their mental health challenges, and may differ in cost and insurance coverage eligibility. Read Mor e.

Imagine yourself in your favorite outdoor space. Maybe you feel and hear the waves of a beach lapping against your feet; or you hear the quietness, apart from a few birds; on a secluded mountain hike; or maybe you are picturing the warm colors of a desert sunset. Take a breath. You likely feel a little calmer already. Nature is calming and healing- most of us know that intuitively, and recently more research is backing that up. Even if you can't get away into the remote wilderness, spending time outdoors in your backyard, a local park, or even looking at images of nature can provide some benefit. In the articles below, read how nature is being used to improve cancer survivors moods, cope with diagnoses, and how the natural world has contributed to medical treatments. How Nature Helps Empower People Going Through Cancer Treatment ( UCLA Newsroom ) Nature, particularly images of trees can increase calmness and positive emotions. The Tree of Life Fulfillment workshop at UCLA's cancer center, uses these images and combines them with art and mindfulness to help patients cope with cancer diagnoses. "Taking patients out into nature, however, isn’t always an option, especially for those who have trouble leaving their homes due to treatment recovery or are in the hospital. With the support of the team from the Simms/Mann Center, which is part of UCLA’s Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, [Sydney] Siegel, [a social work intern,] found a way to bring the experience of nature to patients: through the use of guided imagery, meditation and art." Siegel leads participants to "envision themselves as a tree located in their own very safe and comforting place in nature.While this is happening, they are incorporating deep breathing exercises that simulate the tree — taking deep breaths and exhaling, similar to the way a tree absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen." "'I felt the dense wood’s strength and stability — just what I needed to counter the vulnerability my cancer has imposed on me,' Carol Mason said of the workshop. 'I also sensed a timelessness in the tree’s slow-moving life force that calmed my anxiety about my future.'” Read More. Nature and Breast Cancer: The Plants That Saved a Botanist's Life ( Natural History Museum ) Sandy Knapp is a botanist who works for the British Natural History Museum. When she was diagnosed with breast cancer, her connection to the world of plants that she studies gave here a better appreciation for the medications and treatments that saved her. The main compound of Taxol was originally derived from Pacific yew trees and epirubicin, another chemotherapy compound was originally isolated from a soil bacteria Streptomyces . "I've always known that biodiversity provides us with drugs for combatting conditions like cancer, but being on the receiving end of this treatment made me think about it in a new way. "It is not just the diversity of large exciting animals like those I saw in Africa and that set me up mentally for my journey through treatment that's important. It's also those elements of biodiversity that can be overlooked: plants and even tinier creatures like bacteria. Nature is the best chemist of all, and although we can invent compounds, those that have stood the test of millions of years of evolution are often the most efficacious. Read More. Nature-Based Therapy: Forest Bathing for Women with Breast Cancer ( Mind Body Soul Integrative Clinic ) In addition to the mental and emotional benefits of spending time in nature, researchers in Korea have found that spending just a few hours in a forest can increase natural killer cells, which are protective against cancer. "Natural killer (NK) cells are immune cells in the human body well-known for their ability to identify and reduce the size of cancerous tumors. NK cells and their associated “cytotoxic entourage” of perforin and granzyme enzymes, remained elevated in the bloodstream greater than 30 days after this single forest therapy exposure." "In 2015, a Korean study published a small trial of 11 women with stage 1-3 breast cancer. This was a two-week forest therapy immersion program. ... This clinical trial showed impressive results. Serum NK cells were increased by 39% at the two-week mark and remained elevated 13% above the baseline one week upon returning home. ... These findings support forest therapy’s substantial upregulation in tumor-fighting capacity of the immune system in women coping with breast cancer. While this subject pool was very small and lacked a control group, the results are promising as an adjunctive nature-based therapy, warranting more research." Read More. Why 30 Minutes of Nature a Day Is So Good For Your Health ( Yes Magazine ) So, nature is good for our health, but why ? "The two most common theories that explain this phenomenon are the psychoevolutionary theory and the attention restoration theory. Psychoevolutionary theory focuses on the human ability to have 'positive built-in reactions to natural environments.' Our positive connection to nature including low stress and high spirits has evolved innately as part of our species development over millennia. This theory accounts for nature’s capacity for improving our well-being but doesn’t delve into the cognitive impact of nature on our brain. For this aspect, we turn to attention restoration theory. "Attention restoration theory looks at the two main types of attention that humans employ: directed and undirected attention. Directed attention requires us to focus on a specific task and block any distractions that may interfere with it. For instance, when we are working on a math problem, or engrossed in reading a literary passage or in assembling or repairing an intricate mechanical object, our brains are totally dedicated to the task at hand, requiring our direct undivided attention. After we complete the task we often feel mentally fatigued or drained. Conversely, when we are outdoors, we may enjoy observing patterns or a sunset, clouds, flowers, leaves or a beautiful meadow, which call on our undirected attention. Using our senses to touch, see or smell in natural settings doesn’t require a task-specific, problem-solving approach. Instead we can enjoy our experience in nature and be rejuvenated by taking in the sights and sounds at a relaxed pace. Undirected attention is easy to summon and maintain and leads to reduced stress and anxiety. Read More.

As part of breast cancer treatment, many survivors are on estrogen blockers, and while estrogen is commonly known as a "sex hormone," it also plays a really important role in our metabolism. This is why for many women, breast cancer or not, it can be harder to lose weight or keep additional weight off after menopause. When estrogen blockers throw younger breast cancer survivors into menopause prematurely, it can feel like “cards feel stacked against us” when it comes to managing one's weight. Plus, the stress of a breast cancer diagnosis can lead to more cortisol, the "stress hormone," in our systems, thus making it even harder to lose weight. Even if exercise feels like a Sisyphean task to try to lose weight, remember that there are so many other benefits to exercise beyond the number on the scale. Exercise can help regulate hormones, improve mood, strength, and cardiovascular health, and be an opportunity to connect with others. If you are looking to incorporate more movement and activity into your life, join us for our Movement Monday series with Yoga Nidra next Monday, July 19th. Yes, You Can! Tips for Exercising with Breast Cancer (Healthline) Here are some things to keep in mind while exercising during treatment. Always talk to your physicians and especially a lymphedema specialist before embarking on an exercise program. They may recommend for you to be fitted with a compression sleeve to help minimize the swelling in your arm. The routine you used to do before cancer may not be appropriate during treatment. Your doctor can also help clear you on which exercises you can do on your own and which you may need help from a physical therapist. Read More. Study confirms resistance, aerobic exercise mitigates side-effects of AIs, improves health outcomes (Science Daily) A new study has focused on the effects of exercise and physical activity on postmenopausal breast cancer survivors taking Aromatase Inhibitors (AIs), hormone-therapy drugs that stop the production of estrogen. The work concludes that a combination of resistance and aerobic exercise helps mitigate the side effects of AIs and improves health outcomes in breast cancer survivors, particularly their body composition. Read More. Breast Cancer Survivors and Group Exercise (IDEA Health & Fitness) Exercise can also be a way to socialize and connect with others when you participate in group fitness classes. A study by researchers at Colorado State University found that group exercise designed specifically for people surviving breast cancer resulted in more improvements to quality of life than similar exercise programming led by personal trainers. Additionally, participants of the group exercise classes were more likely to stick with their exercise routines. "While all subjects’ physical fitness measures improved, participants in group training experienced higher measures of overall physical activity and quality of life." Read More. Exercise and Breast Cancer (Johns Hopkins Medicine) Exercise doesn't need to be intense to offer benefits. Even gentle activity like daily walking can improve emotional and physical wellbeing during cancer treatment. Listen to your body and what it needs; this might change from day to day. If you already exercise regularly pre-treatment, keep it up as you feel able, allowing rest when your body asks for it. As you move past treatment and into survivorship, you will want to consider the benefits of each type, and develop a fitness plan that works for you. Cardiovascular exercises like running, biking, or swimming can be helpful in managing stress and maintaining a sense of well-being. Read More.

Social media can get a bad reputation for being a time-suck or leading to unhealthy comparison. While that can be true, when we put the "social" back in social media, it can also be a wonderful way to connect with other breast cancer survivors nationwide and across the world. To more actively connect with others beyond just "liking" a photo, post, or tweet, try leaving a comment or sending a direct message to someone new. You never know what doors of friendship you could open. Because one of the many possible side effects of cancer treatments is insomnia, some find scrolling through breast cancer social media posts a positive and encouraging way to pass the time during sleepless nights by connecting with others going through similar experiences. The upside of this is, you're bound to come across others you can connect with posting at any time of day, whether across the globe or fellow insomniacs in your own time zone. Popular hashtags used in the breast cancer community are #bcsm (for breast cancer social media - read more below), #bcww (for breast cancer world wide), and #mydensitymatters (spreading the word about the role breast tissue density plays in detecting breast cancer). These are all great places to start if you want to join the conversation. And SurvivingBreastCancer.org has our own active social media accounts if you're looking for more ways to connect with our community! Breast Cancer Social Media (bcsm.org) What started in 2011 as a hashtag on Twitter, #BCSM has grown into a full organization to support and connect the breast cancer community. The hashtag itself is still widely used across multiple social media platforms (primarily Twitter and Instagram ) to connect and share stories. While content using the hashtag can be found at any time, there is a designated tweetchat every Monday evening for an hour beginning at 9 pm Eastern / 8 pm Central / 6 pm Pacific on Twitter. You can find tips on how to participate here . Read More. Breast Cancer on Social Media: A Quali-quantitative Study on the Credibility and Content Type of the Most Shared News Stories (Biomed Central Women's Health) As many of us have seen, social media unfortunately can allow misinformation on any topic to spread quickly. A 2021 study aimed to analyze how much misinformation about breast cancer is posted on social media and how quickly that misinformation spreads. Good news, the study found that most social media content relating to breast cancer focused more on sharing "real-life stories" and showing solidarity with the community rather than sharing healthcare specific information, accurate or not. Read More. Use of Social Media in Breast Cancer Awareness: Gulf Cooperation Council Countries’ Experience (Journal of Global Oncology) In addition to connecting with fellow survivors (and their support systems), social media has also been found to be a successful platform for spreading awareness. This 2018 study found that "media have been used to raise breast cancer awareness to promote breast cancer screening programs including self-exam and mammogram, benefits of early detection, and modifiable risk factors." Read More. Know Your Density (My Density Matters) My Density Matters is an organization that promotes the importance of knowing your breast tissue density. Breasts are made up of two main types of tissue: glandular, which is dense, and fatty, which is not dense. The proportion of those two in your breast will determine your breast density. The denser the tissue, the more difficult it is to see cancer on mammograms. By knowing your breast density, you can select the best screening method for you. The organization uses #mydensitymatters on Twitter to get the word out about this important topic. Read More.

A breast cancer diagnosis can unfortunately come at any age. For younger women in particular, who may be considering starting a family or having more children, this can also raise concerns about how their treatment could affect their reproductive health. Luckily, medicine is advancing and giving women diagnosed with breast cancer more options about the future of their reproductive health. Some women may have the option to “freeze their eggs” before starting cancer treatments. This allows eggs to be safely “harvested” and frozen for later use. Treatments like chemotherapy can also bring on earlier menopause. In some cases, this effect is temporary and is reversed once treatment is over. This is also known as chemotherapy-induced amenorrhea. The risk of amenorrhea after taxane chemotherapy like Taxol or Taxetere, or Anthracycline chemotherapies like Adriamycin (chemical name: doxorubicin), AKA the Red Devil, account for 21-71% in young women, and 49-100% in those over 40 years of age according to Pourali et al. "Studies show that getting pregnant does not seem to make cancer return. Some health care providers advise breast cancer survivors to wait 2 years before trying to get pregnant. There is a link between some hormones that rise during pregnancy and the growth of breast cancer cells. But there is no scientific proof that cancer risk increases if a woman gets pregnant within 2 years of completing treatment" ( Cancer.net ). If you've been diagnosed with breast cancer and are considering your options for family planning, here are some questions to keep on hand when speaking with your cancer care oncology team: Will my cancer treatment plan affect my ability to have children? Are there ways to preserve my fertility before I start treatment? Will my treatment plan cause problems during pregnancy, labor, or delivery? How long should I wait before trying to have a child? How will trying to have a child affect my follow-up care plan? Will trying to have a child increase my risk of recurrence? (Source: Cancer.net) From SurvivingBreastCancer.org Podcast Episode #114. Triple Positive Breast Cancer Under 30 In this episode, Tabby shared her experience of being diagnosed in her 20's, including the fertility options she explored. Listen Now. Breast Cancer Stories Rayna found the lump in her breast two months after having her daughter. She shared that she experienced early menopause at age 31. Two years after treatment, her period still hasn't come back. "My daughter is the best thing that’s ever happened to me, and if I can’t have another child, I’m okay with that." Read More. #106. Fertility Preservation Before Cancer Treatment Jessica was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 32. She was focused on her career, living on her own, and totally unprepared for what was ahead. Like so many of us faced with rapid fire decisions, we don't necessarily have time to research and learn about what options are available. Today we take a deep dive into the topic of fertility and breast cancer. Listen Now #50 - Egg Retrieval at 6am. 1st Chemo at 11am | Interview with Caitlin Edmonds, TNBC Caitlin Edmunds discusses her cancer diagnosis and the various challenges she had to overcome. She talks about getting a second opinion on her diagnosis, her experience with egg retrieval, and her chemotherapy treatment. Listen Now Content Across The Web How Menopause Can Happen With Breast Cancer Treatments ( BreastCancer.org ) Some breast cancer treatments can bring on menopause earlier than it naturally would occur. This is known as medical menopause, which can be caused by chemotherapy, or surgical menopause when the ovaries are surgically removed. Surgical menopause is a permanent change, but when caused by chemotherapy, this is sometimes a temporary state during the treatment which resolves once chemotherapy has been completed. “With medical and surgical menopause, the ovaries stop functioning and hormone levels fall right away (surgical menopause) or over a period of weeks or months (medical menopause) — not over a few years, as usually happens with natural menopause. The suddenness of surgical menopause can cause intense symptoms for younger premenopausal women.” Some chemotherapy drugs are more likely than others to cause medical menopause. Read on for more details. Read More. Fertility After Cancer (Johns Hopkins Breast Center) “Because of potential harmful effects in the fetus, you will need to be very careful not to become pregnant while on tamoxifen. Also, a fact not widely known is that tamoxifen was initially developed as a fertility drug. Therefore, even if you are not menstruating regularly, you can still become pregnant while taking this drug and it is important that you and your partner use a non-hormonal form of birth control. If you suspect you may be pregnant or if you want to become pregnant, make sure you discuss this with your doctors.” Although the data are limited, there is currently no evidence to suggest that pregnancy after breast cancer increases your chance of recurrence. It is often recommended to wait a few years after the completion of all treatment (this includes tamoxifen) to allow your body to recuperate. Read More. Reproductive Outcomes After Breast Cancer in Women With vs Without Fertility Preservation (JAMA Oncology) “The practice of fertility preservation (FP) in women with breast cancer (BC) is spreading, but long-term reproductive outcomes after FP are largely unknown.” This 2020 study out of Sweden compared the reproductive outcomes in women who did or did not undergo FP at the time of diagnosis. Using national databases, they examined outcomes of live births, assisted reproductive technology (ART) use, and mortality. The study found that successful pregnancy was possible among both women with and without FP, but women who had used fertility preservation had a higher likelihood of live births. Read More. Fertility and Family Planning After Breast Cancer Diagnosis ( Young Survival Coalition ) “Your options for fertility preservation and growing your family depend greatly on where you are in your course of treatment and what steps you’ve already taken. The good news is that there’s more information than ever for young breast cancer survivors interested in having children.” A few important things to remember: It can take over a year for your period to return. Your period doesn’t necessarily indicate fertility. Regular periods are good but don’t definitely mean you can get pregnant. On the other hand, absent periods don’t always mean you can't get pregnant. If your doctor confirms you are infertile, there are still other options for parenthood. Read More.

Over the last month, you may have seen yellow ribbons pop up in your community, in the news, and over social media. These yellow ribbons serve as a reminder to all that July is Sarcoma Awareness Month. Sarcoma Awareness Month aims to raise awareness about a rare, and often “forgotten cancer” that begins in the connective tissues and affects 13,000 people yearly. Sarcoma is a soft tissue cancer that is made up of many subtypes, mainly because it can emerge from many different connective tissues and can even arise in the bones. While many sarcomas are found in the connective tissue in the arms and legs, they can also emerge in the tissue that supports the ducts and lobules of the breast. Breast cancer sarcomas are very rare, but they tend to be higher grade and larger than other types of breast cancer tumors. The cause of breast cancer sarcomas is not known, and the first symptom, like many other forms of breast cancer, is a painless lump. However, as time goes on, the lump tends to get larger and may begin to press on nerves or muscles, resulting in discomfort and difficulty breathing. Treatment for breast cancer sarcomas depends on the stage, but often, surgery is recommended to remove the tumor as well some of the soft tissue surrounding it. Although rare, breast cancer sarcomas deserve the same awareness and research as other forms of breast cancer, and sarcoma patients deserve to have their stories heard. You can help spread sarcoma awareness via social media by posting the hashtags curesarcoma and sarcomaawarenessmonth or by displaying a yellow ribbon. You can also donate to the Sarcoma Foundation of America to show your support. Inflammatory Breast Cancer Another rare form of breast cancer is inflammatory breast cancer (IBC). IBC begins in the soft tissue surrounding the breast and causes the lymph vessels in the skin to become blocked. This blockage results in firm, itchy, swollen, and red breasts, hence the name inflammatory. Due to its appearance, IBC is often misdiagnosed as an infection of the breast, so IBC is usually not caught and diagnosed until it is already in an advanced stage. Treatment for IBC can include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation and the prognosis depends on the stage and location of the cancer. If IBC is localized, the five-year survival rate is around 39%. However, if the cancer has spread to other organs, the survival rate drops to 18%. Learn more about this form of cancer in our podcast episode about anticipatory grief with Ginny Mason, Executive Director at Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Foundation. You can raise awareness for IBC by donating to the IBC Network Foundation or Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Foundation , or by displaying the pink, black, and orange ribbon created to symbolize hope and solidarity for women experiencing IBC. Paget’s Disease Paget’s disease of the breast is a rare form of breast cancer that forms in or around the nipple and is often referred to as Paget’s disease of the nipple. Symptoms start with scaling, flakiness, and redness of the skin around the nipple and can progress to tingling, burning, bleeding, or oozing discharge of the nipple. Treatment for Paget’s disease may include a mastectomy or lumpectomy, as well as radiation, chemotherapy, or hormonal therapy. And although there is no absolute way to prevent breast cancer, maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular exercise, and limiting alcohol consumption can mitigate your chances of developing breast cancer. This story from Natalie, a survivor with multiple forms of breast cancer, includes more information about Paget's disease. Sarcoma: The forgotten cancer “Any mass that’s growing, certainly if it’s bigger than a golf ball, should be evaluated. If it’s a bone sarcoma, a lot of times that will change the integrity of the bones, so a limp or pain with activity,” said Dr. Matthew DiCaprio, Director of Orthopedic Oncology at Albany Medical Center. Read More. Sarcoma of the Breast: Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of 991 Patients from the National Cancer Database Sarcoma of the breast is a rare malignancy with heterogeneous histology. Angiosarcoma, including secondary angiosarcoma from previous radiation, is the most common type of sarcoma of the breast. Other types of sarcomas of the breast have limited clinical and survival information. Read More. Diagnosis and management of primary breast sarcoma Primary sarcoma of the breast is an extremely rare and heterogeneous disease. The rarity of this tumor limits most studies to small retrospective case reviews and case reports and has made clinicopathological study difficult. Metaplastic Breast Cancer Metaplastic Breast Cancer is a very rare form of breast cancer that originates in the milk duct of the breast before spreading to the tissue surrounding the duct. Metaplastic breast cancer accounts for less than 1% of all breast cancers, but it can also behave more aggressively.

Guest blogger Laila ( @2sweaterpuppies on Instagram) gives you a glimpse into what it’s like to be only 28 years old and fight breast cancer. She’s a scientist. And, no joke, she finished her PhD in cancer research less than two years before she learned she had cancer. Laila Roudsari is not your typical badass, she’s next level: brains, beauty, and ingenuity. She’s a realist so you won’t find sugar-coated smiles or bubblegum optimism here. Instead, she details the important stuff: an almost missed diagnosis (everyone told her she was too young to have breast cancer), the science behind treatment options (because this is a comfortable space for her, unlike many fellow survivors, so she’s leaning in to shave the jargon off the science-speak), how-to’s on making it through tough treatments, and lifestyle changes she’s employed to live a balanced, happy life after cancer. Imagine your approachable doctor friend, who studied your disease, sat in the chair next to you, having undergone the treatments herself, and shared her notes with you. This is Laila’s space. She’s about advocating for yourself and your health first and foremost, and she does that by sharing the honest details about treatments and support (because how else will you know what to expect), spreading awareness about breast cancer in women under 40, getting real about which organizations are making a (scientific) difference, arming women with knowledge about the disease so they feel confident making treatment decisions, oh and advancing breast cancer medicine. Laila is a vibrant, enigmatic, kind soul who now researches cutting-edge technologies to advance what we know about tissue regeneration. So basically… a full-time badass whose proper title is Dr. Roudsari. For a healthy dose of real talk that informs and inspires, 2sweaterpuppies can be found here : Laila’s Story Laila’s pre-cancer bio: I was born in Charleston, South Carolina and I love the coast. I'm half Persian, half Southern. I have 1 sister, 2 brothers, and 2 awesome parents. I went on to do lots of schooling to earn my PhD from Duke in Biomedical Engineering. I'm now a researcher at a biotech company working on growing lungs for people with chronic lung diseases. Oh yeah, and I have 2 cute sweater puppies (actual dogs, not boobies) named Pharah (plott hound/pit mix, age 3) and Willa (wheater terrier, age 5) and a super cute boyfriend (who is also a former cancer researcher), Joe. Laila’s cancer bio: Diagnosis in January 2018, double mastectomy with reconstruction in February 2018, axillary node dissection February 2018, 6 cycles TCHP chemo regimen March-June 2018, 25 rounds radiation August-September 2018, continued HP infusions every 3 weeks until February 2019, daily Letrozole pills and monthly Goserelin injections for 5 years. ​ Stats: stage 2 invasive carcinoma, HER2+/ER+/PR+, BRCA negative Push Until You’re Certain: Trust Your Gut A technician at an imaging clinic spent less than 5 minutes looking only at the breast with the mass, then told me nothing was there and that I had nothing to worry about. I never saw the radiologist himself. It didn’t make sense to me. If nothing was there, why did I feel a distinct mass? I know I’m young and my breasts are dense but there must be another way we can see it. I even asked the technician about getting a mammogram or doing a biopsy. She annoyedly reassured me that, “You can’t biopsy something that’s not there.” She was certain we had taken the necessary precautions. I called my gynecologist later that day. She also insisted I was fine. She read the radiology report aloud to me and explained we were being cautious by having it imaged. I spent the weekend tormented. The only clear memory I have is holding Joe and crying together face to face. Somehow, I knew already that they were wrong and I had cancer. We researched the 2 best university hospitals in the area, found the breast clinics, and wrote down the phone numbers for calls first thing Monday morning. I worried I was being crazy and overreacting but I knew I had to do more. Wisdom from the unwise: I knew the genetics: I’ve always been worried about breast cancer. I'm a cancer researcher. I did an internship at the number 1 cancer center in the world. I shadowed a genetic counselor there and learned all about the BRCA mutation. After that summer, I was inspired to have my family tested since my aunt had breast cancer very young. She tried but her insurance wouldn’t cover it since she was cancer free for more than 10 years. Every year I talked to my gynecologist about it but nothing ever came of it. I tried to be proactive, but I wasn’t proactive enough. I had first-hand exposure: In 2017, I saw a high school friend who was 28 get diagnosed with breast cancer. I didn’t check myself. I also attended the funeral of my Farsi school teacher who died from breast cancer. I still didn’t check myself. Not once in all of 2017. So here are my messages to all of you: Check your breasts every month, trust your gut if you do think something is wrong, and fight for yourself. Find your rescue radiologist, and don't be stopped by the rude NPs with years of experience who can't be bothered to spend more than 5 minutes on a diagnosis call or the technicians who question why you need a second opinion. You're your own best advocate. The scariest part of all of this is that I could still be walking around thinking I was cancer free. And so many young women do. Dear Pinktober: Message From A Survivor Scientist What do I think of all the pink in October? As a patient, I feel very fortunate to have a cancer that’s so visible; a cancer that so many people know about, talk about, and recognize. But I think our focus needs to be not just on wearing pink. As a scientist, I believe that raising money for research should be the number one priority. And I’m writing today to convince you that you should feel the same. Research is what will advance detection and treatment and that is what will ultimately end cancer. Make your pink mean something by making sure your focus is on ending cancer. Here’s an example of a game changing advancement in breast cancer treatment. You may have heard of the term ‘HER2 positive.’ I am HER2 positive. For those of us that have HER2 positive disease, that means our cancer is very aggressive. It used to mean your chances of survival were a lot lower than women that were HER2 negative. Recent advances in cancer research have led to the development of targeted chemotherapies for HER2. What does that mean? That means the cancer cells have a lot more HER2 receptors on their surface than normal cells (picture a bunch of baseball gloves on the outside of my cancer cells, orange cups in the pic below). These HER2 receptors send a lot more signals to the cells to grow out of control, which is why it makes our tumors aggressive. Scientists have developed drugs that bind to the HER2 receptors to prevent the cells from further growth (picture baseballs that get caught in the baseball gloves, yellow squares in the pic below). Your First To Do List Alright breasties, I made you your first post-diagnosis to do list. Reflecting back, there are a few things (6 to be exact) that really helped me right after getting diagnosed and I’m here to share those with you. 1. Share your news on social media. Of course, you’ll tell your closest friends and family, but I could not have dreamed up how much support I got from sharing my news on social media. I was inundated with supportive messages, to the point that I even felt a little overwhelmed by the desire to reply to everyone. It cast a little ray of light on me when I was at my lowest point. Don’t get me wrong, I still had plenty of anger and I was more devastated than I had ever been, but it helped. People I didn’t know very well shared with me ways that I had impacted them in their lives. It was incredible. It also led to an outpouring of cards and gifts. I mean, who doesn’t want to get presents in the mail every day? I really do mean every day, enough to cover the walls of my bedroom with cards. People sent lotions, flowers, baskets, blankets, and jewelry; the list could go on. When I felt like my whole world was turned upside down, my support system was bombarding me with positive things to push out the bad. And it kind of worked. I would caution that some people will try to tell you what treatments you should or shouldn’t do, and share (very unhelpful) stories of relatives or friends who died from cancer. But all of that will be outweighed by the love you will receive. A community I didn’t know existed rallied around me, and for that I am forever grateful. A few of our favorite Instagram posts: These are my dreams, my wildest hopes for my life. This is me, here today, speaking them into existence. This is what I am manifesting. First, I'm a survivor. I never have to fight cancer again. I'm a lead scientist involved in the first engineered lungs going into a person. Once I accomplish that, I become a leader in breast cancer research. In this role, I make real treatment changes, getting treatments into the clinic faster. I work to disrupt the focus of academia on publishing and onto moving findings past the bench to the bedside. I start a company to culture patients' own cells to advance personalized medicine. I seek out causes of breast cancer in young women and once discovered, I push for awareness about these causes. I travel the world to form global partnerships with cancer researchers and improve the state of cancer detection and treatment worldwide. Through this, I gain a deep understanding of other cultures. I use this travel to experience life to the fullest, exploring the wonders of the world to feed my thirst for adventure. I use my knowledge of science to empower women with breast cancer to make informed decisions about their care. I change the way people envision a scientist by mentoring women in STEM. I have a family. I raise strong, smart, children who are open-minded, good people. I master yoga and salsa. I play the cello to feed my artistic side. I live a fully balanced life and I am happy. Inspired to speak my dreams aloud. You should try. It was such a good way to bring back the excitement I used to have about my future. For so long as a cancer patient, I've been afraid of planning ahead, refusing to even think about what I'd be doing in a couple months. I was afraid that if I made plans, I'd be let down if the cancer took my life away before I could do those things. But I'm here right now. And I want to try to live as though I've gotten the one miracle I wish for every day, the assurance that I'm going to get to live out all of my dreams. Pic taken the day before my mastectomy. I am a scientist and I chose biomedical research so I could #movemountains to offer patients treatments when they otherwise didn't exist. A mass was found in my breast in January, a week after my 28th birthday. I got an ultrasound and was told it was nothing by several medical professionals. #imovedmountains to get diagnosed with stage 2 triple positive breast cancer. I had a double mastectomy in February and #movedmountains by freezing eggs after so I can have kids one day. Then came chemo - 6 rounds of one of the toughest regimens. I didn't start moving mountains when I started chemo - my family and friends #movedmountains for me. My parents and boyfriend shaved their heads to become my baldie crew. They made countdowns to tear off the wall and checklists to help me track my food, meds, and side effects. My co-workers and friends made me meals. I ended up #movingmountains by going to the gym for 5 hrs a week, even if I was barely moving my legs on a stationary bike. I also #movedmountains by tossing aside the scarves and hats and putting my bald head and smile out there for the world to see. And then radiation. 25 doses I finished this September. #imovedmountains by going to work every day to do the science I love. Now #imovemountains by helping other breasties through their journeys, sharing tips for what helped me. #imovemountains by striving to enjoy my life and really live it to the fullest (I'm on an endless #cancermoon). This has been the hardest year of my life but I've come out still smiling, still me. I have big plans for how I want to continue moving mountains and impacting breast cancer. I didn't intend to have to move these mountains, but I have. As a former cancer researcher, I can do a lot to help other young women by forming bridges between patients and the medical field. Maybe this is what I was meant to do. So what did we tell you? Badassery on another level. Laila has clearly found her calling and we can’t wait to watch her journey continue to unfold. #longlivelaila

Your head’s spinning. A breast cancer diagnosis has you feeling shocked, upset, anxious, confused (enter your adjective). Then it hits you: how will you tell your children that you have breast cancer? As panicked as you feel, the thought of telling your children the news is maybe even more terrifying. There’s no right or wrong way to let your children know about your breast cancer (although it’s not recommended that you keep your diagnosis a secret). Remember that everyone is different and that you know your children better than anyone else, including the way to break the news with them. There’s no easy way to tell your kids you have cancer, but here are few things to keep in mind when you have that conversation. Find a Personal Level of Comfort First One of the safety measures flight attendants mention to passengers before takeoff is the importance of putting on your oxygen mask before you can help children. Keep that concept in mind before you share the news with your children. In other words, take however much time you need to process the information, so you’re calm when you talk with them. Plan what you will say in advance You don’t need a polished, prepared speech, but it will help to have a guideline in mind for what you want to say and answers to questions they are likely to ask. For example, they may want to know what cancer is in a general sense and how it will affect your everyday life. Consider a Gradual Roll-Out of the Information Trying to share the information at one time can make a stressful and challenging time much harder. According to the American Society of Clinical Oncology , parents should consider sharing the information with children in multiple, brief conversations to allow them to digest the information. Sharing the information as you receive it is a good strategy, particularly with my teenage children. Offer Age-Appropriate Information There’s an endless supply of euphemisms to describe cancer to children, especially when it involves young children. Before you choose one, make sure you have a solid grasp of your situation, what you’re facing, and what treatment you’ll need. Young children—toddlers and preschoolers—will probably be satisfied with bite-sized explanations that can be updated as treatment progresses, although you should be prepared to repeat them often. Share as much information as you can openly and honestly. Offering consistent, age-appropriate simple facts can help children cope—” Mom’s sick. It’s called cancer.” There are, thankfully, plenty of kid-friendly books that can help guide you: Nowhere Hair: Explain cancer and hair loss to kids What Happens When Someone I Love Has Cancer?: Explain the Science of Cancer and How a Loved One's Diagnosis and Treatment Affects a Kid's Day-To-day Life (What About Me? Books) Mom and the Polka-Dot Boo-Boo Older kids will ask tougher questions that should be answered with cautious honesty. Lessen Fears with Transparency Whether it’s letting them know that there may be changes to their routines, explaining who will care for them while mom is unwell, or being open about sad or angry feelings, is the way to go. While you don’t want to overwhelm or panic children, it’s okay to let them know what you’re feeling. You can say, “I’m really sad. I’m waiting to hear from the doctor.” Focus on the Positives Even though you may feel beleaguered and uncertain, try as much as possible to be positive for your kids. For example, let them know that you’re getting excellent care. Talk to them about the promising survival rates for breast cancer. Your goal is to reassure them without offering guarantees for the future. Eliminate Possible Misconceptions Young children can have misconceptions about your disease. For instance, they may think that they did something that caused you to get sick. Make sure they know that no one is to blame for your cancer. They may also think your cancer is contagious, like a cold, and worry that they can catch it if they get too close to you. Take time to explain how cancer works and that hugging you won’t put them at risk. Prepare Them for Possible Visible Changes in Your Appearance The effects of cancer can shake children. Let them know that cancer treatment is strong so it can work hard to make you better and that it may cause you to look and feel different from weight and hair loss. Explain that you may sometimes be very weak, tired, or sick at times, but you will still be their parent. Be Ready for Questions Your kids will likely have questions, including some you may not have considered. Recognize that their questions will probably be ongoing and may be uttered at any time. Give them the opportunity to ask anything they have on their mind. Realize that some of the questions may be difficult questions to answer. Be prepared for your children to ask whether you will die. Explain that you have great doctors taking care of you. Also, don’t be afraid of being emotional—it may help children process their feelings. It’s okay to cry together. Answering honestly and appropriately can help put them at ease and remove some of the uncertainty and fear of what it means to have a mom living with breast cancer. Finally, make sure to remind your children that they are now and always will be loved. Cancer won’t change that. Explore the extensive resources available at Survivingbreastcancer.org , and become part of our empowering community, including our Breast Cancer Survivor & Friends Meet and Greets . We’re always here for you!

By Erin Perkins I discovered a lump on the side of my right breast two years ago now, in November 2020. My son was still nursing so I noticed oddities in my breast more obviously. I had felt pressed to get an annual exam right before the lump surfaced, but I canceled the appointment because of Covid-19, and because my new primary care doctor said the annual did not include a breast exam. Now that I felt the lump, I also noticed I could see it protruding in the mirror. I worried, and simultaneously brushed it off. Over Christmas time with family, I decided I needed to get it checked since Dr. Google did not have any definitive answers for me. I saw my new primary care doctor on January 12, 2021, hoping she would say that it looked like nothing. She didn't. Instead, she ordered an ultrasound (I didn't know they did those for breasts) and a mammogram (my first one). I went a few days later, totally sure it was nothing. It wasn't nothing, but the techs and even the radiology doctor gave me no clarity. I left with an appointment for a breast and lymph node biopsy, and I cried a long time in my car before I drove home to my family. I still thought it would come back benign. A story for another day- my breast biopsy was done by a surgeon my primary care doctor thought might be a good fit for me. The surgeon was not a good fit, and I elected to transfer care. However, she did the diagnostic breast biopsy (not the lymph node biopsy), and she needed to give the results. I asked for them over the phone, and hopeful, I took the call as a quick break from playing in our first snowy North Carolina day of the winter with my family. It was January 28th, 2021 when the surgeon said the dreaded words, “Your breast tumor is malignant.” I was to turn 35 years old days later. The surgeon wouldn’t tell me much else, as she didn’t understand or approve of my request for transfer of care. She simply said, “It’s invasive ductal carcinoma. The new surgeon will explain it all to you when you meet her.” I had to wait until February 2nd for details. All I knew was that there was cancer in my breast, and it could have spread. After transferring care, with the thousand percent better surgeon by my side , I learned more information little by little. I learned I had Triple Negative IDC, then that the stage was IIB , the tumor was 3.6cm , and that although there was a suspicious lymph node in the diagnostic ultrasound, and in the breast MRI, the cancer had in fact not spread, and was indeed likely localized to my right breast . I had genetic testing and I learned many weeks later that I do not have any genes that make cancer more likely for me . I was given a port on the right side of my upper chest, and I started my 16 rounds of chemotherapy two days later on February 26th. I received four rounds of AC and 12 rounds of Taxol , and I finished chemo on July 9th, one week before my ten-year wedding anniversary. I was then given the choice whether to have a lumpectomy with radiation to follow, or a mastectomy without. It took me many weeks to decide, and I finally landed on bilateral mastectomy to flat because my radiation oncologists told me he would offer post mastectomy radiation to me if I did not receive Pathology Complete Response (PCR). I had my bilateral mastectomy on August 6th, and received the news with elation on August 9th, that I had PCR. Throughout my experience with cancer this year, I have leaned heavily into my faith and trust in God , believing and feeling that regardless of my outcome He is my refuge and my hope. I also leaned into my community and family , and all around felt held and cared for, and I’m just more deeply connected to my body, my community, and God now. I am processing my experience through writing. I have a blog erinmcdermott.wordpress.com where I share more in depth during and after Chemo. And I’ll say lastly that I am so hopeful that I’m done with cancer, but painstakingly aware that there is no way to know or control whether or not that is true. So I am just figuring out how to live here, in early survivorship. I’ve loved getting to know local friends with breast cancer through the North Carolina Breast Cancer Facebook group, the TNBC Thrivers through Instagram and monthly Zoom chats, the Elephants and Tea cancer survivors at their Friday happy hour, the Wildfire BC Magazine community at writing pop ups and paid workshops and through the print magazine, The Young Breast Cancer Project, and other ANGEL advocates through joining an advocacy cohort training with the Tigerlily Foundation and now sharing my story with Surviving Breast Cancer. I’m now a part of this whole world of people, thrivers before me and during, who find ways to walk through the hard things and keep going. -- Connect with Erin on IG: @erinleeperkins Thank you for sharing your story, Erin. SBC loves you! SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Our Podcast Online Support Groups Free, Weekly Events Read On Tripple Negative Breast Cancer in your 20's and 30's

By Amanda Raffenaud, PhD. “You have breast cancer and it’s stage 4 breast cancer.” This was the beginning of my journey with breast cancer: stage 4, right from the start. This is called “de novo” or “stage 4, from the beginning” and something that only 6-10% of all stage 4 diagnosed patients experience. All others—roughly 90% of others with a stage 4 diagnosis— will have had an earlier stage diagnosis previously. Nothing prepares you for these words. Hearing this stage 4 diagnosis, from the start, is traumatic. Absolutely traumatic. Your mind races with all what you could have done, what doctors could have done, for something…anything…to look different. But here’s the hard reality: I did everything I could to not get to this point. For four years prior to this diagnosis—yes, 4 years! —I was under strict surveillance with a breast surgeon. Due to family history of breast cancer (both my mother and grandmother), I was seen twice annually for breast ultrasounds and mammograms. The occasional cyst would show up and then I’d be given an “all clear” from the surgeon and sent home with a reminder card to come back for another check in 6 months. I even had annual MRIs. This surveillance happened year after year because there was never anything of concern until there was concern . One month before my diagnosis, I was at the breast surgeon’s office for my bi-annual check-up. An ultrasound revealed a few new spots but as usual, cysts were suspected. Even my mammogram from this visit came back from the radiologist as clear. Yes, all clear. But the MRI later came back with multiple concerning areas, suspicious of malignancy, including areas in my right breast, lymph nodes, and sternum. How could a mammogram be clear and an MRI show cancer in at least 4 different areas? Dense breast tissue , that’s how. Yes, it appears my very dense breasts (or cloudy tissue) made it extremely hard to see anything on mammogram film. As I’ve learned now, mammograms are not accurate diagnostic tools for everyone, and they were certainly not effective for my personal breast tissue type. And, even more concerning, how could I go from multiple “all clears” to a stage 4 diagnosis? That’s a question that still haunts me today. But I do know, there are some things you can do to be an advocate for your own care—both in terms of prevention and maintenance. 1. Take the driver’s seat: Your health is too important to take a back seat. The driver’s seat belongs to you, not your doctor. Ask hard questions. Get second opinions. If things feel off—either in your body or through your intuition—it’s okay to steer your car in a different direction and seek care elsewhere. 2. Pay attention to your body: Your body communicates to you. It often communicates quietly—and then loudly if we don’t pay attention—through aches, pains, fatigue, or just feeling off. I was struck with intense bone pain before my stage 4 diagnosis. My bones were aching, and it hurt to walk (femur bones aching) and even laugh (ribs hurting), but I did not realize this was my body trying to communicate. I now take great care to pay attention to what my body is saying to me. 3. Follow up on all scans and appointments : Don’t skip an appointment. Don’t neglect to schedule that recommended scan. If you do, things could be lurking in your body and you can miss a crucial window of time to act in a timely manner. Although I did not miss appointments or scans, I often wonder if I had taken the driver’s seat and paid close attention to my body, would I have been in a better position to ask the right questions and look deeper when things felt off? We can be our own advocate. And although we shouldn’t live in fear, we can live empowered. We can use the appropriate tools to take care of ourselves, pay attention to our bodies, and make timely appointments with a breast care doctor. Doing so will put you in the driver’s seat as you navigate the days ahead. About the Author: Amanda is a proud Florida native, born and raised in Winter Park, Florida. She is a three-time UCF graduate obtaining a bachelors, masters, and doctorate in health care administration and health leadership. She is currently an assistant professor at AdventHealth University and teaches both undergraduate and gradate students pursing degrees in health care administration. Apart from career, Amanda takes great pride in being a mother to two boys: Luke, a 14 year old 9th graders at the Geneva School, and Jimmy—an 19 year old, sophomore at the University of North Carolina in Charlotte. She and her boys enjoy traveling, hammocking, hiking, going to the beach and spending time with their adorable Labradoodle, Lincoln. In 2018, Amanda’s life flipped upside down. She was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. Not only was she completely shocked to be diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 39, but she was shocked to learn it had spread to dozens of bones in her body. She had no early stage breast cancer diagnosis and was even under the care of a breast surgeon for four years prior to this metastatic diagnosis. She has spent the last nearly 2 years in active treatment for stage 4 cancer, undergoing countless bone infusions, multiple surgeries, and monthly oncology visits. She is taking oral chemo to help stop the growth and spread of cancer. Amanda and her family are no strangers to hard things. Prior to her diagnosis, Amanda lost her husband, James, to mental health issues in August of 2016. Since then, she has become an advocate for mental health and wellness. She has spoken publicly about mental health issues and uses her social media platforms to remind others that their story matters and their lives are worth living. It has been almost two years since her cancer diagnosis yet Amanda is thriving and learning how to find life, even in the unknown. She recently received her yoga teacher certification and spends a lot of time in quiet outdoors, doing yoga, and finding joy in the midst of the hard.

Surviving Means So Much More Than Not Dying Hi, I'm Corean Foley. Diagnosed at 41 Stage III Double mastectomy 19 lymph nodes removed (5 were positive) 12 weeks of chemotherapy 6 weeks of radiation 10 years of hormonal therapy ​ ​And this is my story. Before March 3rd 2017, I thought a “breast cancer survivor" was simply a woman who had breast cancer and did not die from it. Boy was I wrong! "Survivor" doesn't give justice to what it is we really overcome. It's more than just "not dying"- it's about surviving the mental abuse that cancer will put you through. It will have you questioning and second guessing every decision you once were so sure of. A breast cancer diagnosis is about surviving the emotional abuse that to often leaves you feeling crippled, but with no crutches, it’s about surviving while everything you once knew about yourself is being taken by an unseen imposter that confusingly... is you! It's about surviving through every life changing surgery- some so painful that at times you forget how to breathe. Praying for it to at least lessen just enough to catch your breath, for just a moment. But overtime, the pain does lessen while little by little strengthening the way that we will view ourselves. We become proud to wear our permanent badge of honor and are finally able to see the beauty in the "new us," while becoming so much more than just our scars. But that won’t happen until we overcome everything we once never thought we could, like having my breast removed, possibly having my ovaries removed and put on hormone therapy to stop the estrogen in which fuels my cancer, leaving me to ask “If you take all of that from me, than how will I ever feel like I am a woman again?" ​​Being a survivor is the moment we are handed the pen in which our oncologist gives us and we are told to place our signature on a form (before we are given chemotherapy) stating that we understand that chemo will kill some of us. You see, I'm unsure whether I will win or lose my battle to stage 3 breast cancer, but that's ok because our fight is way bigger than just fighting for ourselves. We fight for the possibility that maybe, just maybe because of the fight in which we are fighting today, it will give my children and your children a greater possibility to never have to wonder whether they will win or lose their battle to breast cancer because we already fought that fight for them. Thank you for sharing your story, Corean. We love you. SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: How To Talk with Your Children About Breast Cancer Parenting & Breast Cancer Affirmations & Meditations Breast Cancer & Mental Health Online Support Groups

Meet Laura And Explore Her Beautiful, Silver Lining My name is Laura, and this is my story. The Before Bliss I was literally bobbing along, floating in the ocean, in complete bliss and harmony. It was my 50th birthday, and I was on vacation with my family and life had never been better. I reflected on the previous decade: I’d weathered a nasty divorce, 10 years of single motherhood, the stress of being a career caregiver, and that I somehow had managed to keep it all together in the face of all that. Yes, I was heavier, yes I was addicted to caffeine and sugar, and yes I had long since abandoned my regular workouts for sporadic “when I have time” fits and starts of exercise. But on this day, none of that mattered. I had my 2 children, my 7 siblings and their families, my mother, and my wonderful husband of two years, all with me. LIFE WAS GOOOOOOOD! What Came Next Soon after vacation ended, I had my annual mammogram. Yup, you know what’s coming next, but I sure didn’t. Exactly one month to the day after my glorious 50th birthday celebration, I learned I had breast cancer. It was like being a happy-as-all-hell child, skipping around without a care, who suddenly falls face first on the concrete. How on earth could this be? Ok, so I had strayed a bit from my normal uber healthiness during my 40’s – HELLO LIFE CIRCUMSTANCES – but I’d always taken good care of myself. I didn’t smoke, drink, or use drugs, I exercised and ate nutritionally more than I didn’t, and it just made no sense to me. Well, I had about two seconds to think about that before a slow swirl of subterranean anxiety set in… and onto the breast cancer train I reluctantly boarded. Get an MRI, have a biopsy, get a surgical consult, make friends with the words lumpectomy, radiation, and sentinel node. Breathe in and breathe out. Change your care team from suburban and local to the big city specialists, and then have not one but TWO lumpectomies (because it wasn’t fun enough the first time), and THEN find out that you learned the words lumpectomy and radiation for nothing because what you REALLY needed to learn was mastectomy, reconstruction, and chemo. Difficult Times During my treatment, I had wonderful support from family and friends, and I know I’m very fortunate to have had that. It certainly made the chemo crater feel less like an abyss. Experiencing baldness (oh but my lonnnngggg hair – gone, all gone), anemia, neuropathy, nosebleeds, digestive problems, profound fatigue, and prednisone puffball status were certainly no picnic. ​ I felt frustrated to be missing out on life around me. As I made a dent in my couch from the abject fatigue and brain fog, I worried about how my kids were handling seeing me like that. I felt concerned about lasting cardiac and nerve damage from the drugs. I felt somewhat stressed that I might not have a job waiting for me anymore when I was finally better. My frustrations and concerns framed out some difficult times. The Silver Lining But inside the suck of it all came a beautiful silver lining: I was forced to slow myself down from the life I had before (birthday vacation excluded) and really dial in to what was important. AND what I needed to let go of. With lots of introspection, blogging, and journaling, I came to understand that cancer didn’t happen TO me, it happened FOR me. And as sick as this may sound, I’m grateful for what it did for me. My life now, with cancer two years in the rearview as of May 17, 2019, is so much more meaningful. I am now PRESENT. I’ve made significant changes in my life, for the better. I do my best not to sweat the small stuff anymore. (It’s all small stuff!) I vigilantly protect my emotional and physical energy in service to what is aligned with positivity, personal growth, and joy. (And I’ve even forgiven that ex-husband of mine! LOL!) I know I’m one of the lucky ones. Because I lived. I survived. And now I thrive. It makes me sad to know that there are many women who have to fight harder, and longer, and that their battles are much more proverbially bloody than mine. Cancer doesn’t care. It can take any one of us. For this reason, and many more, I feel it is especially important that we survivors speak up and speak out, and create the noise necessary to fund more and better research, so that the dreaded “1 in 8” can be a thing of the past. Thank you for sharing your story, Laura. SBC loves you! SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Writing For Therapy Breast Cancer Poems Our Weekly MeetUp Online Support Groups Breast Cancer Book Club

Breast cancer treatment often involves a combination of conventional medical approaches such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. However, many individuals also explore holistic or complementary practices to augment their overall well-being during and after treatment. Understanding these holistic approaches, their benefits, and their integration with conventional treatments can be valuable for individuals navigating the breast cancer journey. Understanding Holistic Approaches to Complement Breast Cancer Holistic approaches encompass a wide range of practices that focus on treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. These practices aim to complement traditional medical treatments and may include: Mindfulness and Meditation :  Mindfulness practices cultivate present-moment awareness, while meditation techniques promote relaxation and stress reduction Yoga and Exercise :  Offers physical activity combined with breathing exercises and meditation, promoting flexibility, strength, and stress relief Acupuncture :  Traditional Chinese medicine technique involving thin needles being inserted into specific points on the body to alleviate pain and promote overall well-being Nutritional Therapy :  Emphasizes a balanced diet with whole foods, antioxidants, and supplements to support overall health during treatment Benefits of Holistic Approaches Though they may not always be prescribed by doctors during breast cancer treatment, many holistic healing methods can yield several positive physical and mental outcomes. Patients incorporating holistic remedies can experience a variety of improvements, including: Stress Reduction :  Holistic practices like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress and anxiety levels often associated with cancer treatment. Pain Management :  Techniques like acupuncture or massage therapy might assist in managing treatment-related pain or discomfort. Enhanced Well-being :  Holistic practices contribute to overall well-being by promoting relaxation, improving sleep quality, and fostering a positive outlook. Supporting Conventional Treatments :  Integrating holistic approaches can complement traditional treatments by supporting the body's natural healing processes. Integrating Holistic Approaches with Conventional Treatments Holistic and conventional treatments can seem at odds with one another, but they can often be complementary when using an informed approach. For optimal treatment outcomes, consider the following: Consulting with Healthcare Providers:  Always consult with healthcare providers before incorporating holistic practices, ensuring they align with the ongoing treatment plan. Incorporating Mindfulness:  Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques daily to manage stress and promote emotional well-being. Physical Activity:  Engage in gentle exercises, such as yoga or walking, to improve flexibility, reduce fatigue, and enhance overall wellness. Nutritional Guidance:  Seek guidance from a registered dietitian to ensure a balanced diet that supports treatment and recovery. Safety and Consideration Breast cancer treatment is not experimentation, and every patient should explore every necessary safety consideration before starting a new holistic practice in conjunction with their treatment. Be sure to consider the following for your safety during treatment: Healthcare Team :  Inform healthcare providers about any complementary practices being incorporated into the treatment plan. Individualized Approach :  Holistic approaches should be personalized to meet individual needs and preferences. Potential Interactions :  Some herbs or supplements might interact with medications, so always discuss these with healthcare providers. Conclusion: Enhancing Well-being Holistically Holistic approaches offer a multifaceted approach to support individuals throughout their breast cancer journey. When integrated thoughtfully with conventional treatments and under the guidance of healthcare professionals, these practices can contribute positively to emotional well-being, stress reduction, and overall quality of life.

By Kiara Ford A promising breakthrough has recently emerged in the ongoing clinical trials for the datopotamab deruxtecan drug . AstraZeneca and Daiichi Sankyo have been conducting research as part of their TROPION-Breast01 trial, seeking to determine the effects of datopotamab deruxtecan against single-agent chemotherapy for patients with inoperable or metastatic HR-positive, HER2-low or negative breast cancer who are not candidates for endocrine therapy or have already previously progressed on other interventions. This research is taking place through randomized, multicenter, open-label trials with over 700 patients across Asia, Europe, North America, South America, and Africa. What is Datopotamab Deruxtecan? Datopotamab Deruxtecan is an antibody-drug conjugate , a class of drug designed for targeted therapies and most often used in cancer treatment. There are currently at least 12 clinical trials ongoing worldwide to study the effects of the drug on multiple tumors, with a particular interest in its effects on hormone receptor-positive, HER2-low or negative breast cancer. Breast cancer is classified as “ hormone receptor-positive ” after a biopsy to collect cancer cells. These cells are then tested to determine whether they contain proteins that can act as receptors for the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Cancer cells with receptors will require these same hormones to grow. Being hormone receptor-positive means that the cancer cells contain receptors for either estrogen, progesterone, or both. Hormone receptor-positive cancer typically grows slower than hormone receptor-negative cancer. HER2-low or negative breast cancer is a categorization based on the level of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) proteins in breast cells. At the right level, HER2 proteins can help control the rate of breast cell growth and maintenance. In cancer patients, however, a high level of HER2 may indicate that the breast cancer is growing and spreading rapidly. Specific drugs and therapies which target HER2 proteins, but patients who are HER2-low or negative typically will not respond well to such treatments. Does Datopotamab Deruxtecan Improve Cancer Survival Rates? The most recent development from the Datopotamab Deruxtecan Phase III trials demonstrated that patients whose cancer was hormone receptor-positive and HER2 low or negative had “statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement” toward the end goal of progression-free survival while taking the drug, compared to chemotherapy. Progression-free survival is the amount of time during or after treatment in which a patient continues to live with the disease without disease progression. The datopotamab deruxtecan trials seek to understand the drug’s impact on both progression-free survival and overall survival (the duration of life after initial diagnosis). This most recent study also suggests that datopotamab deruxtecan can have a positive impact on overall survival, but the data are still new and require further study before any definitive statements are made. These results are just the beginning of Phase III of the drug trials, and a greater understanding of datopotamab deruxtecan’s efficacy will become clearer as more data is gathered. Still, in the meantime, it is encouraging to see the drug yielding positive results for patients with hormone receptor-positive HER2-negative breast cancer. Learn More: Video: Clinical Trials 101 Clinical Trials Resource Guide Understanding Your Pathology Report: A Comprehensive Step-By-Step Guide Different Types of Breast Cancer On the Podcast: Breast Cancer Conversations Is the Medicine Working? Exploring Treatment Efficacy in Breast Cancer A bout the Author: Kiara Ford is a recent graduate of Emerson College, where she majored in communication studies and minored in health and society. She is currently a community health worker trainee with the non-profit organization Asian Women for Health. She is passionate about patient advocacy and health equity, and hopes to raise awareness and increase understanding of patients’ rights through her work. From the Same Author: Metastatic Breast Cancer: Understanding the Significance of Stage IV Breast Cancer and Healthcare Access Within the Hispanic Community Inflammatory Breast Cancer: Breaking Down the Basics