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Against Breast Cancer

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Re: SHOULD I HAVE TAMOXIFEN??

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Posted by Betsy Mullen on 4/1/2000 from 205.188.195.52:
In reply to: SHOULD I HAVE TAMOXIFEN?? posted by Judy on 3/29/2000 from 205.188.199.178:
Dear Judy:

I have sent your message to a top expert on Tamoxifen for review and will forward you any comments as soon as I receive them. I personally have struggled with the same fundamental question you raise. Although our cases are certainly different, I have, over the years since my diagnosis in 1992, pondered the efficacy of starting Tamoxifen myself, although I was ER and PR negative. I am, because of my history of breast cancer, obviously at an increased risk. This is why clinical trials are so very important.

Your comments are all valid issues to discuss with your health care team. We would be happy to send you a video about Tamoxifen and other educational materials, free of charge regarding breast self-exam, breast health, understanding breast changes, questions to ask your health plan about exemplary care (found on our web site under help yourself – 10 key questions for women to ask their health plans), breast cancer myths and much, much more depending upon your needs.

AN IMPORTANT REMINDER: It is very difficult to render an opinion without knowing all the facts of any one particular case. But one strong recommendation we would like to make is that you pursue your question(s) with your own physicians. You should feel fully empowered to obtain a satisfactory answer and feel free to seek a second or third opinion. We have some great tips on partnering with your health care team and key questions to ask your doctors, communication tips and informed decision-making tips to help you get the information you need. There is a special form on our web site that you can fill out and e-mail to us to help us best meet your needs and you are also welcome to call us at (626) 332-2255. Your information will be kept confidential.

I am a strong advocate of second opinions and suggest that you do discuss your questions and concerns with your oncologist and any other member of your health care team that you think will be helpful to you. Tamoxifen is a very well studied drug and they should be able to answer your questions intelligently and thoroughly.

I hope that this information is helpful to you. Please let us know how your consultation with your health care team goes and how you are doing.

My warmest regards,

Betsy Mullen
President/CEO
WIN Against Breast Cancer