HER+ breast cancer is an aggressive type of breast cancer that tests positive for a protein called human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), making this breast cancer more aggressive than other types.
How It Starts
HER2+ breast cancer occurs when the HER2 gene mutates, leading to an overproduction of HER2 proteins. These extra proteins cause breast cells to divide and grow uncontrollably, forming cancerous tumors.
Treatment
Treatment for HER2+ breast cancer typically includes:
- Surgery: To remove the tumor.
- Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill cancer cells.
- Targeted Therapy: Drugs like trastuzumab (Herceptin) and pertuzumab (Perjeta) specifically target the HER2 protein. These drugs have dramatically improved the survival rates for HER2+ breast cancer patients. However the side effects from these medications are harsh.
- Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells.
BCA always recommends women evaluate Standard of Care Side Effects, Off-Label Treatments Alternative Treatments, Combination Treatments & Breast Cancer Reconstruction options thoroughly before making any treatment decisions.
Survival Rates
5-year survival rates
- Stage I or II Localized: Approximately 99%
- Stage III: Approximately 86%
- Stage IV: Approximately 28%
10-year survival rates
- Stage I or II Localized: Approximately 95%
- Stage III: Approximately 80%
- Distant (Stage IV): Approximately 15%
Emotional Support is critical to your healing. Even if everything goes smoothly with your treatment a cancer diagnosis is stressful. Reach out to your support network to help you emotionally on a regular basis. Getting a Therapist is a great idea.
And then use Duality to fill in the gaps!
References
- Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF),Explains HER2+ breast cancer & targeted therapies
- SEER Cancer Statistics, Provides detailed data on HER2+ breast cancer & survival statistics
- Mayo Clinic, Offers a clinical overview of HER2+ breast cancer