ions, BRCA-1 and BRCA-2,should monitor ovarian cancer development. (160)Screening methods include ultrasound using an introvaginal probe and a CA 125 blood testMedications may be prescribed to lower the risk of ovarian cancer developmentWomen who have taken birth control pills for five years have been shown to be less likely to develop ovarian cancerWomen after age 35 may seek surgical removal of the ovaries, which may reduce but not totally eliminate the risk of ovarian cancer development.EIGHT FACTS Chapter 16 Fear of RecurrenceFear of breast cancer recurrence is very common. (162)A patients fear of recurrencemay be increased at the conclusion of treatment.A patients fear of recurrence may continue to grow until a new daily routine is established for the patient.Recurrence is inevitable for certain women ==If a woman is predestined for recurrence--then 75% will recurrence after 5 years and 90% will see recurrence after 10 years.Every ache may be an omen of breast cancer recurrence for some women. (165)If the pain persists for 3-4 weeks, it is suggested that a physician be consulted.In general, severe pains are usually unrelated to cancer.Controversy over the best surveillance methods following breast cancer treatment exists.The author suggests a physical examination for all patients after 6 months.He suggests that patients following breast conservation surgery and radiation should have a mammogram read after 6 months for baseline determination. Subsequent annual mammograms are then recommended.He suggests that patients following mastectomy with or without radiation should monitor their condition for local recurrence. Local recurrence in tissues beneath the skin and axilla is common for these patients. Early detection made be made on the basis of physical examinationSystemic surveillance is not warranted for asymptomatic patients because of its expense and additional exposure to ra...
