For me, being HER2+, my 5 years started once I finished Herceptin. During that time frame, I also had a clear mammo for the remaining side.

Perhaps someone with Hormone receptors will jump in a provide an answer for those taking the blockers. If not, making a call to your nurse navigator for clarification may provide some peace of mind. Hugs!

Is the period of time “5 years following treatment” defined as 5 years after hormone therapy is done (5years for me) or 5 years after bilateral mastectomy and tumor removal?

Yes, once the active treatment is finished, (which in my case was surgery, chemo, and Herceptin infusions)- and they have no reason to believe there is still cancer, we go to survivorship status. For me, I was moved first to an appt every three months, then the following year, every 6 months, and then once a year. I was told that if the cancer was to return, it was most likely within the five years following treatment- and the highest risk of return is within the first two years of that five year period. The appts are pretty quick, they just go over risk factors, possible concerning physical symptoms, any emotional issues (counseling often helps with the transition of moving from patient to survivor) make sure I am up to date on any tests, make sure I don't have any questions- then off I go!

“Why should I schedule a survivorship appointment?

As a cancer survivor, it is essential that you understand how to reduce your risk of recurrence, cope with emotional and physical effects, and define what is important to you as you move forward.

What can I expect at my appointment?

At your individual, comprehensive survivorship appointment, you’ll meet with an oncology nurse practitioner or physician assistant and an oncology social worker. You’ll have the chance to ask a question, share concerns, and set personal goals for a healthy future. Most appointments last about an hour.

During your appointment, you will receive:

A personalized treatment summary and survivorship care plan
Education regarding follow-up care
The opportunity to talk about physical, sexual, social, emotional, and spiritual needs and concerns
Information about nutrition, physical activity, and integrative therapies
Overview of cancer survivorship programs and resources”

Found this in one of many websites. This one is from Indiana.

Not sure what exactly that is ? So no I haven’t