This is worrying, but there are so many people with cancer, that I suppose there has to be some cut off point. I think that it depends on what type of cancer you have, what stage it is at and how well it is behaving at the 5 year point as to whether or not they stop the check-ups at this stage.
You are always told to phone your cancer nurses, if there is the slightest doubt of any recurrence.. I have had 2 bouts of breast cancer. 1 x 7 years ago, and the second 6 years ago. I am still attending for check-ups, but I don't know how much longer that will continue for.
Please keep in contact and let us know how you are getting on. We are always here whenever you feel like talking.
Hi, Maybe you could ask your medical team what the recurrence rate is after 5 years, for your type of lung cancer? As Jolamine says, there has to be a cut off somewhere. But the doctors can give you a prognosis. But only do this if you want to know, of course. But if the doctors say that you don't need check ups because your chances of recurrence are really low, then you will feel much better. xx Harry
Hi,
I had a different type of cancer - tongue and throat. Also I live in France where the rules
may be different. I was checked for ten years - the last being this year.
This was only a visual check and chat, so not too thorough.
My cancer was discovered late on and my chance of surviving the Op. etc were given as 50%
So I wouldn't worry too much, just be sure to go straight back if any real symptoms reoccur.
Good luck
Colin
