Should I take hormone therapy for DCIS at 69 with clear margins?

This is such an important decision that many face after DCIS treatment, and it's completely understandable to weigh the benefits against potential side effects at this stage. The considerations around hormone therapy after successful lumpectomy and radiation are complex, involving factors like age, overall health, and personal quality of life priorities. Many community members have navigated similar decisions and found it helpful to discuss specific concerns about side effects and recurrence risk with their oncology team, who can provide personalized guidance based on the latest research and individual circumstances. Others in this community may have valuable experiences to share about their own decision-making process.

I had dcis, very similar to yours. 68 years old. I am taking AIs, I have side effects but i just want to do everything possible, available

It is a hard decision.i had lumpectamy.grade 1 stage 1.5 radiation treatment.risk of return told to me was 6 _8 percent.i started Letrozole 3 days ago to reduce risk to 2 percent other places it might show up.I 'm 79.very active.never cancer before.i figure another 10 good ys and I 'll give it a try.

I had a recurrence after a lumpectomy with clear margins and no lymph node involved. I was on anastrazole for six months and stopped due to side effects, in consultation with my oncologists. A year later I had another lumpectomy when microscopic lobular cancer was detected. My oncologist wanted to do a third lumpectomy to get the remaining cancer when I decided to get a second opinion. The new team and I decided on a bilateral mastectomy which they did. No chemo or radiation required, but I am taking a different hormone blocker for 5 years and the side effects so far are more tolerated. I know I made the right decision because the pathology report indicated precancerous cells even in the breast that originally did not have cancer. It doesn’t even bother me that I’m now flat! I feel lighter and have no desire for reconstruction.

Catherine R. May I ask what hormone blocker you are taking? I am on my second one but not happy about the side effects.

Sandra S. I’m on Exemestane now for five weeks. So far it seems tolerable. I do get hot flashes at night and have some stiffness, but I’m in a bone building program, I play pickleball and do tai chi. Sometimes power walking. I’m concerned about weight gain and hope to continue losing another 20 lbs. but this will be challenging.

I agree w u. I 'm in same boat but the oncologist really begged me to reconsider.

Catherine r, which hormone blocker are you taking? Thank you

Thanks!