How to follow up care after breast cancer treatment?
Follow up Care After Breast Cancer Treatment 1 Typical follow-up schedules. Doctor visits: At first, your follow-up doctor visits will probably be... 2 Ask your doctor for a survivorship care plan. 3 If the cancer comes back. If cancer does return, your treatment options will depend on...
Can I take time off work for breast cancer treatment?
The act allows employees with serious medical illness, such as breast cancer, to use their leave "intermittently." That means you could take off one day each week or take two weeks off to recover from surgery while saving the remaining weeks to use during radiation or chemotherapy treatments.
How will my life change after breast cancer treatment?
In many ways, it will be a lot like the life you had before, but in other ways, it will be very different. Call it your "new normal." From your relationships with your family and your spouse to eating habits and exercise, breast cancer will change your life in ways that last well after treatment ends.
What are my rights if I have breast cancer at work?
Breast Cancer Work Rights and Legal Provisions 1 Telling the Boss and Colleagues. Typically, sharing life news with those at work isn't difficult,... 2 Asking for Accommodations. Employers are required by federal law to provide "reasonable... 3 Legal Rights of Disability and FMLA. Under the ADA, cancer qualifies on a case-by-case basis.
Can I work while being treated for breast cancer?
Some people are able to keep working while they're getting cancer treatment. Some people work their usual full-time schedules. Some work the same schedules under special conditions (accommodations), like being closer to the office bathroom so it's easier to deal with side effects.
Can I work after breast cancer surgery?
Surgery. Most people will need to take time off from work when they undergo surgery, whether the surgery is a lumpectomy or a mastectomy with reconstruction. The amount of time you take will depend on what type of surgery you receive and how your recovery goes.
What career works with cancer patients?
Oncologists are physicians who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment and care of adult and pediatric patients with cancer....Common careers in oncologyMedical oncologist. ... Surgical oncologist. ... Radiation oncologist. ... Gynecologic oncologist. ... Pediatric oncologist. ... Hematologist-oncologist.
When can I return to work after breast cancer surgery?
Healing time after surgery can range anywhere from a few days to a week. After a lumpectomy without a lymph node biopsy, you're likely to feel well enough to return to work after two or three days. You can usually resume normal physical activities, like going to the gym, after one week.
What can you not do after breast cancer surgery?
Don't lift or carry anything heavy, or drive, while your scars heal up. After breast conserving surgery this is likely to be after about 2 weeks. After a mastectomy, it might take longer.
What benefits can I claim if I have breast cancer?
Disability benefits and breast cancer Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – a benefit for people who struggle with daily tasks or mobility. You may be able to claim PIP if you have breast cancer and are aged over 16 and under state retirement age.
Can a cancer patient get a government job?
In the Indian context, the simple answer is no. The employment laws that protect disabled individuals are not extended to cancer survivors or patients. So, as a cancer survivor or patient, you are applying to the same jobs that everyone else can.
What is life like after radiation therapy?
They're usually gone within a few weeks after treatment ends. The most common early side effects are fatigue (feeling tired) and skin changes. Other early side effects usually are related to the area being treated, such as hair loss and mouth problems when radiation treatment is given to this area.
What is life like after chemotherapy?
Life after cancer treatment can present its own challenges. You may have mixed feelings when treatment ends, and worry that every ache and pain means the cancer is coming back. Some people say that they feel pressure to return to “normal life”.
How do I get a job after cancer?
You may need or want to disclose your cancer experience, if it: Helped renew your dedication to your job....2. Prepare for Challenges and TransitionGetting job interviews and callbacks.Explaining a work history gap on the resume because of cancer treatment.The need for accommodations because of treatment side effects.
Can you fully recover from breast cancer?
Most people fully recover with treatment. Talk with your doctor if you develop any new symptoms after radiation therapy or if the side effects are not going away.
Does breast cancer count as a disability?
Social Security disability benefits are an option for women who are diagnosed with breast cancer and need help. Because of the prevalence of breast cancer in the US, the Social Security Administration (SSA) lists breast cancer as a disabling condition and a potentially qualifying disability.
What is working with cancer?
Working With Cancer helps support employees, employers, the self-employed, job seekers and carers to manage cancer and work. They offer guidance, coaching and resources to help people during and after cancer treatment.
What is the Macmillan Cancer Support number?
They produce information on work, self-employment and your rights. You can also call the Macmillan Support Line on 0808 808 00 00 to speak to their financial guidance team.
Can you stop working after breast cancer?
Some people choose to stop working altogether after a diagnosis of breast cancer. This may be for health reasons or because the experience of having breast cancer has made them re-assess what’s important. However, giving up work is not an option for everyone and your circumstances may mean it’s not possible for you to do this.
Is breast cancer considered a disability?
For the purposes of the Equality Act 2010 anyone who has or has had breast cancer is classed as disabled. This protects employees in England, Scotland and Wales from being discriminated against because of their disability.
Can colleagues understand breast cancer?
Some people find that colleagues don’t understand their breast cancer diagnosis and the impact it can have on daily life. You could speak to your colleagues to explain your treatment, or give them information to read.
Can breast cancer make you feel overwhelmed?
Thinking about work and breast cancer may make you feel overwhelmed and anxious. You may find our information on coping emotionally and managing stress and anxiety helpful.
Can breast cancer patients give information to others?
However, you have the right for any information you do provide to be kept private and only discussed with other people with your permission.
Sex and intimacy
Many people experience vaginal dryness and a loss of libido after treatment. Find tips for coping with these, as well as managing changes in your intimate relationships and how you feel about your body.
Breast cancer recurrence
Find information on the signs and symptoms of a breast cancer breast recurrence, and support on managing anxiety or fears of your breast cancer coming back.
Coping with anxiety, stress and depression
Find support on managing stress, anxiety and depression, as well as relationships with family and friends.
Writing about your experience
Writing can be a therapeutic way of expressing your feelings about your breast cancer diagnosis. Find tips on getting started and speak to others who have written about their experience in our writing guide.
Talk to our breast care nurses
If you have a particular concern about breast cancer or just want to talk, our specialist nurses and trained staff are here for you on our free Helpline.
Why do you need a pelvic exam after breast cancer surgery?
Pelvic exams: If you are taking either of the hormone drugs tamoxifen or toremifene and still have your uterus, you should have pelvic exams every year because these drugs can increase your risk of uterine cancer.
How long does breast cancer treatment last?
Almost any cancer treatment can have side effects. Some might only last for a few days or weeks, but others might last a long time.
Why aren't breast cancer tests included in follow up?
Other tests: Other tests such as blood tests and imaging tests (like bone scans and chest x-rays) are not a standard part of follow-up because they haven’t been shown to help a woman who's been treated for breast cancer live longer.
What factors affect follow up on breast cancer?
Your follow-up schedule can depend on many factors, including the type of breast cancer, how advanced it was when it was found, and how it was (or is being) treated.
What happens if cancer comes back?
If cancer does return, your treatment options will depend on where it comes back, what treatments you've had before, and your current health and preferences. For more information on how recurrent cancer is treated, see Treatment of Recurrent Breast Cancer .
What tests can be done to detect cancer?
If symptoms, exams, or tests suggest a possible recurrence of your cancer, imaging tests such as an x-ray, CT scan, PET scan, MRI scan, bone scan, and/or a biopsy may be done. If the cancer recurrence is confirmed, your doctor may also look for circulating tumor cells in the blood, or measure levels of blood tumor markers such as CA-15-3, CA 27-29, or CEA. The blood levels of tumor markers go up in some women if their cancer recurs or has spread to other parts of the body. If a tumor marker level is high, your doctor might use it to monitor the results of treatment. But tumor marker levels don’t go up in all women, so these tests aren't always helpful, and they aren't used to watch for cancer recurrence in women without any symptoms.
How long after cancer treatment do side effects show?
Some side effects might not even show up until years after you have finished treatment. Visits with your doctor are a good time for you to ask questions and talk about any changes or problems you notice or concerns you have. However, if you have additional concerns about your cancer, you do not have to wait until your next scheduled visit.
How often do you see your chemo provider after chemo?
For months, you’ve seen your healthcare providers very often. They could answer your questions and support you at each visit. Now that you’ve finished chemotherapy, you won’t see them as often, but you’ll likely continue to have questions and concerns.
How long does it take to feel like you're back after chemo?
Try to avoid having goals for yourself that are too high. This can add to your stress level and frustration. Most people say it takes 6 to 12 months after they finish chemotherapy before they truly feel like themselves again.
How long does it take for a chemo numbness to go away?
It may get worse after you have your last chemotherapy treatment. Most people notice that their neuropathy gets better 2 to 4 months after chemotherapy, but it can take up to 1 year to fully go away.
What is the importance of follow up with primary care?
It’s important to also follow-up with your primary care provider for your routine healthcare as well. This includes blood pressure checks, cholesterol tests, and other standard lab or blood work. It ’s important that your doctors at Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) have all your health information, including your primary care provider’s contact information.
How long does it take for nausea to go away after chemo?
You may experience nausea (feeling like you might throw up) and vomiting (throwing up) after your last chemotherapy treatment. It should go away in 2 to 3 weeks. Your appetite may continue to be affected due to taste changes you may have experienced during your treatment.
What are the mental effects of chemotherapy?
This is sometimes called “chemo brain.” You may have problems such as poor memory, trouble finding words, difficulty focusing. This can affect parts of your life, including caring for your family and managing your job.
How long do side effects last after chemo?
After you finish chemotherapy, you may have some remaining side effects. While most will go away soon after your last dose, others can last for weeks or months. Some of these side effects are listed below. For more information on each side effect, talk with your healthcare provider.
How to reduce risk of breast cancer recurrence?
Discuss ways to help lower your risk of breast cancer recurrence, such as maintaining a healthy weight. Check for signs of lymphedema. Check for changes in your family history and refer you to genetic counseling or genetic testing, if appropriate. Provide medical updates that might change your follow-up care.
What tests are done to check for breast cancer?
Depending on your signs and symptoms, follow-up tests may include: Blood tests (including tumor marker tests) Imaging tests (such as bone scans, CT scans, PET scans and chest X-rays) A tissue biopsy (to check if a suspicious finding is a recurrence of breast cancer) Other tests may also be done.
What is the term for breast cancer that has returned and spread to other parts of the body?
Find breast cancer that has returned and spread to other parts of the body ( metastasis ).
What tests are needed to check for breast cancer recurrence?
Depending on your signs and symptoms, follow-up tests may include: Blood tests (including tumor marker tests)
What to ask for during bone health checkup?
Bone health tests. During follow-up visits, your health care provider will ask you about any symptoms or concerns you may have. These visits are a good time to discuss how you’re doing emotionally. If you feel anxious or depressed, tell your health care provider.
How long after a mammogram do you have to have radiation?
Mammogram (of the remaining breast tissue and/or opposite breast) People treated with lumpectomy plus radiation therapy. 6-12 months after radiation therapy ends, then every year. People treated with mastectomy. 1 year after mammogram that led to diagnosis, then every year.
Do breast cancer survivors get the flu shot?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends breast cancer survivors get the seasonal flu shot.
Telling co-workers about your cancer treatment
How open you are with your co-workers about your cancer and health after cancer treatment is a personal decision. Based on your relationship with your co-workers, you can decide if you want to share anything, and how much you would like to share. Try not to feel pressured to share or explain things.
Legal protections for working people with cancer
You have the same rights as anyone else in the workplace and should be given equal opportunities, regardless of whether or not you tell people at work about your cancer. Hiring, promotion, and how you are treated in the workplace should depend entirely on your abilities and qualifications.
Discrimination against people with cancer at work
Even though the public’s understanding of cancer is getting better, sometimes prejudices and fears are still found in the workplace. Even after your cancer treatment has ended, you may face work and workplace discrimination issues. Tell your Human Resources Department about any workplace discrimination issues you might be facing.
Get more help and information
If you would like to read more about asking for help as you go back to work, see the Americans With Disabilities Act. If you need extra time off as you go back to work, you may also want to read the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) . This information explains more about federal laws that can help many people with medical problems.
When will breast cancer be diagnosed in 2021?
on June 29, 2021. When you're facing a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, it's hard to know how to approach things at work. Knowing what to say, what kind of accommodations to ask for, and how to take medical leave can all be important for your treatment and recovery. 1.
Is it wrong to divulge a cancer diagnosis?
There is no right or wrong way to divulge a cancer diagnosis. Some people might feel more comfortable talking to their boss or supervisor first, avoiding the miscommunication that can stem from the office gossip mill. Consider setting up a meeting or a lunch, so you can be sure to have her full attention. Also, remember that discussions about ...
Does ADA cover breast cancer?
Under the ADA, cancer qualifies on a case-by-case basis. The act protects individuals from losing their jobs due to disability and sets guidelines for employers regarding required accommodations. 4 The U.S. EEOC, which enforces the ADA, offers the following example of a woman with breast cancer who would qualify for job protection under the act.
Does breast cancer qualify for ADA?
Under the ADA, cancer qualifies on a case-by-case basis. The act protects individuals from losing their jobs due to disability and sets guidelines for employers regarding required accommodations. 4 The U.S. EEOC, which enforces the ADA, offers the following example of a woman with breast cancer who would qualify for job protection under the act.
Can coworkers help with breast cancer?
Talking to colleagues about a cancer diagnosis isn't a necessity; however, co-workers can be an unexpected source of support. It's not uncommon for colleagues to provide needed support for those with breast cancer. This support may include personal assistance on the job, donated vacation days, or even a fundraising campaign.
Can you talk to your boss about breast cancer?
First, don't rush it. There is no reason to talk to the boss or colleagues so soon after receiving the news. Wait until it feels as comfortable as possible.
Can breast cancer patients request an undue hardship?
Employees with breast cancer can't make requests of their employer that would cause them "undue hardship.". The term "undue hardship" is different for every company, but the majority of these accommodations for individuals with any disability—not just cancer—cost companies very little.
How to help someone with cancer?
Be honest and direct with your health care team about your situation. This includes talking with a social worker or other member of the health care team who may help you find available financial resources. Ask your doctor about lower-cost options for your treatment plan, if possible. Remember: You are not alone after a job loss. There are resources to help you continue your cancer care even in the most difficult circumstances.
What providers are covered by a cancer insurance plan?
Are all my providers covered? The plan should cover your oncologist, as well as your primary care physician, other specialists like a dermatologist, etc.
How to talk through anxiety during career?
One possible option for talking through that anxiety is reaching out to a social worker at the hospital where you receive or received treatment.
Is it scary to lose your job?
“It’s scary to lose your job,” says Rebecca Nellis, executive director of Cancer and Careers, a nonprofit that helps people with cancer navigate the workplace. “It’s scary to spend every day wondering if you’re going to lose your job.”
Can you get cancer support groups online?
Another option is a support group, which is often done online these days. Cancer Care and Cancer Support Community both have online support groups, among many other resources. Nellis also recommends that people ask within their own communities for referrals to cancer support groups. Your health care provider or hospital may have a list as well.
Can you miss medical care while being treated for cancer?
No one wants to miss medical care, especially while being treated for cancer. Here are tips to cope with the anxiety that comes with a job loss during cancer and what to consider in order to continue paying for your cancer care.
Can you be alone after a job loss?
Ask your doctor about lower-cost options for your treatment plan, if possible. Remember: You are not alone after a job loss. There are resources to help you continue your cancer care even in the most difficult circumstances.
