Breast Cancer Index Test: A Guide to Anti-Estrogen Therapy Duration
When Are You Done with Anti-Estrogen Therapy Treatment?
I want to empower you with this incredible test called Breast Cancer Index! Not many people know about this test that can provide you with personalized information about your anti-estrogen therapy and your risk of recurrence. I had no clue about it until I started my work with Learn Look Locate so I wanted to share it with you!
The Breast Cancer Index test helps you understand whether you will benefit from being on anti-estrogen therapy for 5 more years or not.
Did you know that some women may benefit from 5 years of anti-estrogen therapy, while others may benefit from a full 10 years? How do you find your finish? It starts with the Breast Cancer Index test (BCI)! BCI tells women with early-stage, HR+ breast cancer two very important pieces of information:
- What is your risk of recurrence in years 5 through 10?
- Are you likely to benefit from anti-estrogen therapy after the 5-year mark?
With this information, you and your care team can decide the best length of treatment for YOU. Ask your doctor about it! Advocate for yourself to know your risk of recurrence and find your finish to anti-estrogen therapy.
Read more about breast cancer treatments and survivor blogs to learn from others’ experiences.
Understanding Anti-Estrogen Therapy
Anti-estrogen therapy is a common treatment for hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer. This type of therapy works by blocking the production or action of estrogen, which can fuel the growth of certain breast cancer cells. There are different types of anti-estrogen therapies, such as selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), aromatase inhibitors (AIs), and estrogen receptor downregulators (ERDs). Each type works differently, but all aim to stop the cancer cells from receiving the estrogen they need to grow.
Why the Breast Cancer Index Test Matters
While anti-estrogen therapy can be a valuable treatment for HR+ breast cancer patients, its duration and effectiveness may vary between individuals. The Breast Cancer Index test helps doctors and patients make more informed decisions about the appropriate length of therapy, potentially preventing overtreatment or undertreatment. By tailoring the duration of anti-estrogen therapy to each patient, healthcare providers can minimize the side effects and maximize the benefits of this treatment.
How to Discuss the Breast Cancer Index Test with Your Doctor
When talking to your doctor about the Breast Cancer Index test, consider asking the following questions:
- Am I a good candidate for the Breast Cancer Index test?
- How will the results of the test impact my treatment plan?
- Are there any risks or side effects associated with the test?
- How long will it take to get the results, and how will they be communicated to me?
It is essential to have open and honest conversations with your doctor about your treatment options and any concerns you may have. By doing so, you can work together to create a personalized care plan that best suits your needs.
Post is sponsored by Breast Cancer Index.