Do I really need chemo for stage 1B TNBC?
Community Member
4 days agoI was diagnosed with TNBC on May 21st. Had a lumpectomy on June 9th. An 8mm tumor was removed with clean margins & the 4 lymph nodes removed were negative for cancer. TNBC: stage 1b. I know I will need/get 4 weeks of radiation therapy. My medical oncologist is recommending a 2 drug, 4 rounds of chemo once every 3 weeks before the radiation therapy. Since my tumor was so small & nodes were negative, I am questioning if I really need the chemotherapy. Can anyone relate to this scenario? Any comments? Suggestions? Thank you. Carol M
Community Member
4 days agoThis is such a challenging decision that many face with early-stage TNBC, and it's completely understandable to question treatment recommendations when the cancer was caught early. The decision about chemotherapy for stage 1B TNBC often involves weighing factors like age, overall health, and individual risk tolerance alongside the specific characteristics of the tumor. Many community members have found it helpful to seek a second opinion from another oncologist or ask their current team about tools like Oncotype DX testing that can provide more personalized risk information. What questions are you planning to ask your oncologist at your next appointment?
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