Beyond the Fear: Finding Clarity After Early Breast Cancer Diagnosis

Top Questions to Ask Your Doctor After an Early Breast Cancer Diagnosis

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we are reminded of the importance of early detection, informed conversations, and proactive care in the fight against breast cancer. For women navigating an early breast cancer diagnosis, every question asked, and every decision made can shape the journey ahead.

At 38, Surekha was juggling work deadlines, family dinners and weekend plans when her world suddenly paused. The phone call from her doctor brought a diagnosis she never expected- Early Breast Cancer. She felt like she had stepped onto a treadmill she couldn’t control- tumor size, lymph nodes, chemotherapy, radiation. Her mind filled with questions about her future, her family and the journey she hadn’t planned for.

In these moments it is easy to feel lost and overwhelmed. But, for patients like Surekha, who are newly diagnosed with early breast cancer, the first few appointments with the healthcare team are very important. These conversations do more than outline a treatment plan. They set the tone for the entire journey. From understanding the disease, the risk of recurrence, exploring treatment options to learning how to manage side effects and maintain quality of life, these conversations help the patients with the right tools to take control.

Dr. Manasi Shah, Senior Consultant, Department of Medical Oncology, HCG Aastha Cancer Center, Ahmedabad “Receiving an early breast cancer diagnosis can be an overwhelming experience, filled with unfamiliar medical terms and complex decisions. However, asking the right questions like what stage my disease is in, is it curable, what type of cancer do I have, do I need treatment after surgery, what is my chance of recurrence risk, what can I do to reduce my risks of recurrence, early on helps patients gain clarity about their treatment choices. Being informed and involved in the decision making process is very important for better outcomes and patient confidence.”

Here are a few questions every newly diagnosed early breast cancer patient should ask their oncologist:

What is early breast cancer and what does my diagnosis mean?

Understanding your diagnosis is the first and most important step in taking control of your care. Early breast cancer (eBc) typically means stage 0, 1, 2 or 3, when the cancer lump is found in the breast or nearby lymph nodes and has not spread to the other parts of the body.^[1] By asking your doctor to explain you your diagnosis, such as tumor size, hormone receptor status and HER2 status, you will get a clearer picture of what is happening in your body. This information will guide your treatment and help you feel more informed as you move forward.

What is my risk of recurrence?

One of the biggest concerns for most patients is the risk of the cancer coming back after treatment. Each person with eBc has a different risk of recurrence based several factors, including age at diagnosis, tumor size, number of lymph nodes with cancer in them, mutations in genes, or abnormal activity of genes that may cause cancer to grow.^[2] Sometimes, the risk of recurrence remains as high as 50%. By knowing your recurrence risk, you can work with your care team to opt for advanced therapies that lower this risk and establish a long-term monitoring plan.

How will my treatment options affect my quality of life?

Treatments for early breast cancer comes in many forms- surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, or targeted therapy. Each of these affects patients differently. While these treatments aim to prevent recurrence risk, advanced therapies today are also designed to help maintain quality of life by minimizing side effects. Discussing which treatments align with your daily life, responsibility and personal goals, allows you to prepare yourself mentally and choose the treatment option best suited for you which in turn helps you maintain your quality of life.

What side effects can I expect during my treatment and how can I manage them?

Every treatment comes with potential side effects that may affect different aspects of your life. Common issues like diarrhoea, fatigue, pain may influence your overall quality of life. Discussing the possible side effects with your doctor helps you prepare for what’s ahead and explore ways like advanced therapies, which are designed to lower these side effects. Tracking your symptoms and communicating openly with your care team can ensure adjustments are made to help you feel as comfortable as possible during treatment.

Are there any lifestyle changes I should make?

Lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and stress management play a significant role in your overall well-being. Quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, engaging in regular physical activity, and practicing mindfulness techniques like yoga or meditation can all positively impact your health. Asking your doctor for tailored advice specific to your diagnosis can help you make impactful changes.

How will my health be monitored after treatment ends?

Ongoing monitoring is a crucial part of staying ahead of any potential recurrence. Your care team may recommend a schedule for follow-up appointments, imaging tests likePET, CT, USG, etc. , and possibly blood tests or scans based on your individual risk. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more confident about life after treatment and ensure you stay proactive in your care.

Asking thoughtful, informed questions is one of the most powerful tools you have as a patient. It helps you understand your diagnosis, make confident treatment decisions, and build a partnership with your care team. Whether you’re learning about recurrence risks, exploring advanced treatments, or making lifestyle changes to support your health, every question brings you closer to taking charge of your journey and maintaining your quality of life.

^[1] Novartis eBc guide

^[2] eBC guide Novartis