Should I do Radiation?

melbee23

Really struggling with the decision about radiation.

I'm 38. Stage 1B, IDC, 2 tumors - each about 1.2 cm, one Grade 3 one Grade 1, Mastectomy in September, currently doing TC chemo, will do Tamoxifen.

Had two sentinel nodes removed in surgery, one was clear, one had less than 1mm micromets

Got opinions from two RO's who both said I'm in the "gray area" for needing radiation. Most studies recommend radiation for 1-3 lymphnodes, but not much research on benefits of radiation with micromets. aren't very conclusive. RO's are saying it is reasonable to go either way depending on how aggressive I want to be.

I know doing radiation is most conservative and most aggressive option. But I am worried about side effects, the inconvenience (30 mile commute each way), timeline and reconstruction issues with reconstruction/implants, etc.

If I really needed it, wouldn't my RO's tell me that clearly?

Am I being irresponsible to strongly consider not doing it?

Anyone in a similar situation that chose not to do radiation and happy with your decision?

Thank you!

Moderators

HI melbee23, and welcome to the BCO Community.

Each person must choose the best treatment strategy for their particular situation, including diagnosis, age, other life and health circumstances. So, it's very personal, and important therefore to consult your treatment team, get additional professional medical opinions, read the research and weigh the benefits. You are very young, so you'll need to take that into account. Here is a page to read about radiation if you would like to take a look: https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/radiation/t....

There are many stories you can read here in the forum, and we hope that's also helpful.

Please keep us posted and let us know if we can help.

Warmly,

The Mods