This information booklet is specifically designed for people who have recently been diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. Whether you have previously undergone treatment for early breast cancer, or this is your first encounter with breast cancer, it is important to know that metastatic breast cancer can occur despite the best care and efforts. In fact, approximately 20 per cent of individuals with early breast cancer will develop metastatic disease. This diagnosis may be your initial experience with breast cancer, as happens for around five to ten percent of those diagnosed each year. We recognise that learning you have metastatic breast cancer from the start can feel like a double blow, and we want to assure you that you are not alone. The purpose of this introductory information booklet is to provide you with key facts about metastatic breast cancer, offer reassurance that this condition can be treated, and instil hope that you can live as well as possible with your cancer under control. Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) is Australia’s leading breast cancer consumer organisation. BCNA has produced this booklet, with review by: • Louise Sinclair, BCNA Consumer Representative • Laura Yammouni, BCNA Consumer • Dr Nick Zdenkowski, Medical Oncologist, Hunter Cancer Centre; Conjoint Senior Lecturer, University of Newcastle; Chair, Scientific Advisory Committee, Breast Cancer Trials. This booklet is not a substitute for professional help or advice from your treating team. It is important to discuss any concerns with your health professional. BCNA excludes itself from all liability for any injury, loss or damage incurred by user of, or reliance on, the information provided in this booklet. Telephone: 1800 500 258 Website: bcna.org.au Copyright © 2023 Breast Cancer Network Australia MIR379B October 2023 First published Oct 2016; second ed. 2019; third ed. Oct 2023.
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Metastatic breast cancer: an introduction
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