Did Your Breast Cancer Return After Stopping Anastrozole?

My original diagnosis was ER+, PR+, HER-. Invasive lobular cancer, stage 3. Yes, I had a recurrence of breast cancer after being on anastozole for 10 years. I was NED for all those years. I told my oncologist I wanted to stay on it but he refused to refill my prescription because he said that using anastrazole for more than 10 years had not been studied. I got off it. Within 6 months I had a recurrence that put me in Stage IV. After being NED for 10 years! I fired that oncologist, of course and started treatment with Versenio and Fuivesant with an oncologist with a different medical group. The recurrence occurred in my hip bones. I am 6 months into my treatment.

I have been on Anastrozole since May and I was told I only need to be on it for five years. I was Stage 2a, with only 3 lymph nodes that were cancerous. They removed 6 nodes.

Thank you both for responding. Marie, I also have ILC but stage 2, 2 out of 2 lymph nodes pos, margins were not clear. I have been on anastrozole since Oct 2021, surgery March 2022 radiation and Xeloda (for colon ca diagnosed at same time). It seems reoccurances happen after stopping the anastrozole or around the 10 year mark. I'm thinking of stopping it because I need more energy. I am trying to support my husband and his ca treatments right now.

My husband has cancer too. His surgery is August 5th.

Betsy 🙏🙏

This is an important question that many in the breast cancer community wonder about. While recurrence experiences vary greatly from person to person based on individual factors and original diagnosis details, connecting with others who have navigated similar concerns can provide valuable support and perspective. The breast cancer community here includes many members with diverse treatment journeys who may be able to share their experiences with hormone therapy decisions. Consider discussing any concerns about treatment changes with your medical team, as they can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation.