Trending
Many side effects of breast cancer treatment, such as fatigue, go away shortly after treatment ends. However, the organization Susan G. Komen notes that some women experience late effects of cancer treatment, which are new side effects that present months or even years after treatment for breast cancer has ended. Late effects vary, and many breast cancer survivors experience no such symptoms. But according to Macmillan Cancer Support, a United Kingdom-based organization devoted to supporting individuals living with cancer, some late effects may be permanent.
There's no way of knowing who will experience late effects of breast cancer treatment. However, a 2019 study published in the Journal of Midwifery & Women's Health indicated that as much as 90 percent of breast cancer survivors experience long-term consequences as a result of treatment.
Susan G. Komen notes that some of the more common late effects of breast cancer treatment include:
∫ Bone health problems
∫ Changes in the look and feel of the breast, including after lumpectomy, radiation therapy and/or reconstruction
∫ Early menopause or menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes
∫ Emotional distress and depression
∫ Fatigue or insomnia
∫ Fear of recurrence
∫ Infertility
∫ Joint and muscle pain
∫ Sexuality and intimacy issues
∫ Weight gain
Susan G. Komen notes that research into breast cancer care, including how to improve life for survivors, is ongoing.
In the meantime, women undergoing treatment, those who have recently completed treatment or even patients who have not received treatment in years but are experiencing the aforementioned side effects are urged to speak with their physicians about the various ways to improve quality of life should any of these symptoms appear or continue to present.
More information about late effects of breast cancer treatment is available at komen.org.