A DCIS diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but it's great that you're exploring your options! Many MyBCTeam members have navigated this same decision.
Most people who have a lumpectomy do go on to have radiation therapy afterward. Radiation helps reduce the risk of the cancer coming back. However, skipping radiation after a Show Full Answer
A DCIS diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but it's great that you're exploring your options! Many MyBCTeam members have navigated this same decision.
Most people who have a lumpectomy do go on to have radiation therapy afterward. Radiation helps reduce the risk of the cancer coming back. However, skipping radiation after a lumpectomy may be possible for some people, particularly those who are 65 or older, if certain conditions are met:
- The tumor is no larger than 3 centimeters and has been fully removed
- The cancer is estrogen receptor-positive and/or progesterone receptor-positive (meaning hormone therapy can be used instead)
- The lymph nodes are cancer-free It's worth knowing that even with radiation, a lumpectomy does carry a slightly higher risk of recurrence compared to a mastectomy. That said, overall survival rates between the two options are similar.
The best path forward is a conversation with your care team, who can weigh your specific situation and help you make the right call. You're not alone in figuring this out! 💛
October 19
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