Latest research left me angry

Carole77

I waited for 9 months to finally post a comment but throughout my difficult journey I found comfort in reading various messages. A big thanks to all of you!

One month before my 35th birthday, I found my lump while on my honeymoon. Turned out to be IDC (grade 1, Stage 1). It came as a big shock as I did not have a family history and was living rather a healthy life. I am not sure how to remember 2012: the year I got married or the year I was diagnosed with cancer. So far, the latter seems to be taking over.

Two 'recent' studies left me feeling very angry and made me question whether the funds going into breast cancer research have always been properly used. The first study talks about the benefits of taking Tamoxifen for 10 years, and the second about the lack of knowledge that the medical establishment has about breast cancer in women under 40 (see BBC 'breast cancer trials failing to save young patients') - apart from the fact that we have a worse prognosis, regardless the grade, stage, etc... Some studies showed that young age is an independent, powerful prognostic factor.

While breast cancer is tough on everyone, young women face additional challenges mainly related  - but not limited - to fertility. I was planning to start a family after my wedding, yet I am so confused about my future: to stop Tamoxifen within 2 years and try to get pregnant or to continue the whole 5 years and maybe 10 years! I can't get a straight answer from my medical team - just vague answers like, commenting on the first option, 'that is a sensible decision'.

It seems to me that really there is a serious lack of knowledge when it comes to women under 40 and considerations should be given to making some adjustments with respect to channeling various funds and donations.

Am I alone feeling this way?