My mum refused treatment

Last year my mum was diagnosed with grade 2 breast cancer, she had a mastectomy and at her follow up was told all the cancer had been removed and margins clear, she then went on to see oncologist who told her she would need chemo and radiotherapy, after a long hard thought she decided not to have any treatment, since refusing this last August she hasn’t had any follow ups or any contact with the doctors or her breast care nurse even to go through anything with her. Is this normal procedure for a patient who declines treatment? She was told she would need hormone tablets for the next 5-10 years which she was never given but then told by her gp she would never prescribe anything like that as it would cause the cancer to come back

  • Hello Carlys19,

    It's difficult to say what is normal procedure as experiences do vary, but it's worth you and your mum speaking to the breast care nurse with your questions or concerns, if you haven't already. There is information on our website on possible next steps with treatment for breast cancer as well as getting a second opinion, if you feel that is needed.

    I hope this helps,

    Moderator Anastasia

  • Hi Carly,

    That’s really your Mum’s choice - not everyone opts for the follow up treatment. You don’t mention your Mum’s age but that may have been a factor in her decision. 

    Is it possible there may have been a miscommunication and that she actually wanted the hormone treatment, just not chemo or radiotherapy?

    I find it hard to believe that a competent GP would make such a controversial statement about hormone therapy. There is a small risk associated with HRT but an oncologist would be better able to advise than a GP. 

    Best wishes
    Dave