Understanding your HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer diagnosis
Receiving a diagnosis of HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer, the most common type of metastatic breast cancer, can feel overwhelming. Having open and informed conversations with your doctor can help you better understand your diagnosis, your treatment options, and what to expect during treatment. Here are some important questions to consider asking:
About your diagnosis:
- What does HR+/HER2- mean for my cancer?
- How advanced is my cancerand where has it spread?
- What tests will I need to better understand my cancer?
About treatment options:
- What are my treatment options, and what do you recommend?
- Are there any clinical trials that I might qualify for?
- What are the pros and cons of each treatment, including benefits, side effects, and potential costs of each option?
- What are the logistics of my treatment? Where and when will I be treated, and for how long?
- Can you explain how CDK4/6 inhibitors and endocrine therapy work?
- Are there any genomic tests I should get to see if there are options targeted to the tumor’s genetic profile?
About managing side effects:
- What side effects should I expect from treatment?
- How will side effects be managed?
- How can I communicate any concerns about side effects to my care team?
- What can I do to stay as comfortable as possible during treatment?
About quality of life:
- How will treatment affect my daily life and activities, such as work, exercise, diet, and other daily activities?
- What resources are available to support my physical and emotional well-being?
- Should I consider palliative or supportive care alongside my treatment to maintain my quality of life?
- Who are the other members of my care team who can help me through this process and answer my questions?
About the future:
- How will we monitor the effectiveness of my treatment?
- How often will we monitor my treatment?
- What are the signs that my cancer may be progressing?
- What happens if my current treatment stops working?
Bringing a notebook or having a loved one join your appointments can help you remember your doctor’s responses. Don’t hesitate to ask follow-up questions or request explanations in simpler terms.
Next steps: Prepare a list of your top questions and schedule a conversation with your oncologist. Feeling empowered with knowledge can help you make confident decisions about your care.
Connect with an Outcomes4Me oncology nurse practitioner at no charge through the Outcomes4Me app, using the “Ask Outcomes4Me” button.
