Sara M. Tolaney, MD, MPH explains that treatment decisions for metastatic breast cancer are based on the current biopsy showing receptor status, but prior biopsies over the full course of disease are considered as well, particularly for HER2 targeted therapies which may work even if HER2 low expression occurred years earlier.
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Necessary Tests After a Diagnosis of Breast Cancer
November 15th 2023Sara M. Tolaney, MD, MPH, states that all breast cancers should be tested for estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors; HER2 testing involves an immunohistochemistry stain to quantify protein levels, with 3+ indicating HER2+ disease, 0 indicating HER2- disease, and 1-2+ levels needing additional FISH testing to clarify HER2 status.
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How to Wear and Adjust to Wearing a Wig During Cancer Treatment
November 3rd 2023In this on-demand webinar series, CURE partnered with Look Good Feel Better to demonstrate how to put on and adjust a wig for comfort and appearance for patients with cancer who have experienced hair loss from treatment.
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Overcoming Barriers to Treatment Access and Reimbursement
October 26th 2023Dr. Noor Abuhadra and patient Shay Elkins discuss overcoming barriers to cancer treatment access and reimbursement. Shay shares her relatively smooth experience with insurance coverage, while Dr. Abuhadra emphasizes that healthcare teams will fight for patient coverage, especially when treatments are backed by research and FDA approval. Dr. Abuhadra also mentions having a financial clearance department to handle denials and secure approvals, as well as training staff to fill out prior authorization forms. Shay underlines the importance of self-advocacy and leveraging online communities for both emotional support and practical advice.
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Managing Adverse Events in Patients Receiving Later Line Systemic Therapy for Metastatic TNBC
October 26th 2023Dr. Noor Abuhadra discusses managing adverse events in patients receiving TRODELVY (sacituzumab govitecan), a later-line systemic therapy for metastatic triple-negative breast cancer. Shay Elkins, a patient, shares her experience with significant side effects including diarrhea, low white blood cell counts, and hair loss, while Dr. Abuhadra emphasizes the need for proactive management of these issues to maximize treatment time and maintain quality of life.
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