Welcome back! This post is the second in a series of posts dedicated to information on breast cancer resources, which can be found at: https://livingwithcancertakemyhand.com/blog. In this post I will focus on stage 0 breast cancer.
What is Stage 0 Breast Cancer?
Stage 0 breast cancer, or ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), is when abnormal cells are found in the lining of your milk ducts. These abnormal cells have not spread beyond the milk duct to surrounding tissue, like your bloodstream, or lymph nodes.
Treatment
Stage 0 breast cancer may be treated with surgery. Depending on which surgical procedure is right for you, radiation may also be recommended. Recovery time can vary, so it’s best to plan ahead.
If your cancer tumor cells had estrogen or progesterone receptors on their surface, Tamoxifen or another aromatase inhibitor may be recommended. This will limit the availability of hormones in your body.
Hormone therapy is available at most pharmacies. Talk with your pharmacist for discounts if you are unable to afford your medication. They often have prescription discount cards and programs that they can offer. Some large pharmacies may be able to offer discounts. It is worth a phone call to them. Additionally, the following discount programs are available:
- Patient Assistance Programs | Novartis United States of America (Femara / Letrozole)
- Pfizer Oncology Together | Patient (Aromasin / Exemestane)
- NeedyMeds
- Medicine Assistance Tool
- Senior Benefits: Find Help Paying for Everyday Needs | BenefitsCheckUp (over age 55)
Short-Term Resources:
Short term financial resources are appropriate for Stage 0 breast cancer. Confirm with your health insurance plan if prior authorizations are required for each treatment option. Financial challenges with stage 0 breast cancer can occur with deductibles & co-pays. For tips on staying organized, go to: Getting Organized During Cancer Treatment | Living with cancer take my hand.
Plan for an interruption in income while you recover from surgery if you do not have sufficient paid time off. Talk with your employer about your options and if you need to use FMLA to protect your job during treatment. FMLA -The Family and Medical Leave Act | Living with cancer take my hand
Additional patient assistance resources can be found at: Patient Assistance Programs | Living with cancer take my hand
Ask your cancer treatment team for additional local resources. Often there are funds available from local organizations and charities to keep you stable during this journey.
I hope this information is helpful. If you would like to continue this conversation, please click on the Subscribe button at the top of the Blog page. I would love to hear your comments as well as resources that have worked for you. Please share this information with your family and friends.
Keeping you in my prayers
