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What is the recurrence rate and timing for HER2-positive breast cancer after treatment?

With modern targeted therapy treatments, approximately 25% of people with HER2-positive breast cancer experience a recurrence within 10 years. This is a significant improvement from earlier rates of 30-50% before targeted therapies were Show Full Answer

What is the recurrence rate and timing for HER2-positive breast cancer after treatment?

With modern targeted therapy treatments, approximately 25% of people with HER2-positive breast cancer experience a recurrence within 10 years. This is a significant improvement from earlier rates of 30-50% before targeted therapies were available.

The peak time for recurrence is around 20 months after initial diagnosis or completion of main treatment. Most recurrences occur within the first 5 years after diagnosis. Several factors can increase the risk of recurrence, particularly:
• Having active cancer cells after pre-surgery treatment
• Lymph node involvement
• Being 50 years or younger at diagnosis
• Large tumor size
• High body mass index (BMI)
• Hormone receptor-positive status

For those with both HER2-positive and hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, about 75% of recurrences happen within approximately 3 years.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

When Is HER2-Positive Breast Cancer Most Likely To Recur?