Introduction

Key Points:

• Follow-up care for breast cancer includes coping with side effects of treatment and lowering the risk of recurrence.
  
  
• ASCO’s recommendations for follow-up care include regular visits to your doctor and mammographies.
  
  
• People with breast cancer should talk with their doctors about a follow-up care plan and how to coordinate this care between the oncologist and their primary care or family doctor.

To help doctors give their patients the best possible care, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) asks its medical experts to develop recommendations for specific areas of cancer care. ASCO developed a clinical practice guideline about follow-up care for breast cancer. This guide for patients is based on ASCO's recommendations.

As you read this guide, please keep in mind that every person treated for cancer is different. These recommendations are not meant to replace your judgment or that of your doctor. The final decisions you and your doctors make will be based on your individual circumstances.

Last Updated: June 30, 2009

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