What to do after diagnosis

Doctor explaining diagnosis
Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming – it’s normal to experience a wide range of emotions, from frustration to a complete sense of loss.

Once a diagnosis is confirmed, the focus shifts to treatment options and surgical interventions. In this page, let us help you plan your next steps.

Get the information you need

The path from diagnosis to treatment is often daunting. Here’s how you can get started.

 

Understand your diagnosis

Understanding your diagnosis is the first step towards effectively managing the disease.

 

Breast cancer presents in various forms/types including:

  • Stage 0 Breast Cancer
  • Stage 1 – 3 (Invasive Breast Cancer)
  • Stage 4 – Metastatic (or Advanced) Breast Cancer
  • Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)

Each type requires a tailored approach to treatment, which is why the treatment plan may differ from other patients. 

 

Your biopsy report can answer many questions and provide critical information on abnormalities, cancer cells, their characteristics, and details about the cancer cells found.

 

Prepare questions to ask your doctor

Getting ready a list of questions for your doctor ensures you understand your diagnosis and plan your next steps.

 

Your peace of mind is crucial. Actively ask and seek clarity on areas like specifics on your cancer, treatment options, costs, potential side effects, available support etc. 

 

The more you know, the better equipped you will be to make informed decisions.

 

Obtain first hand information

Beyond your doctor, the best first-hand information comes from learning from others who are battling or have recovered from Breast Cancer. Contact us to discover how you can do so today.

 

In addition, encourage your loved ones to start learning about breast cancer. Their support can be vital to your journey.

 

Start with downloading our Little Pink Book: Breast Cancer 101 – an easy quick read with bite-sized information and key insights.

Downloadable

Little Pink Book

Personal story

Personal story – Cally Koh

Cally shares her story

Selecting a treatment

The primary approaches used to manage and treat breast cancer include:

  • Surgery: From lumpectomy to mastectomy (depending on extent and location of the cancer)
  • Treatment modalities: Includes Chemotherapy, radiation, hormone therapy and targeted therapies. 

Your doctors will work with you to plan treatment specific to your diagnosis, for achieving the best outcome.

 

Factors to consider

The right treatment is specific to the cancer and involves evaluating all options, based on the benefits, risks and side effects of each.

Key factor

Consideration

Side effects

Assess potential side effects - hair loss, fatigue or changes in appetite etc. Some treatments may cause nausea or reduced energy levels.

Treatment duration and frequency

Consider the treatment duration and frequency and how this fits into your routine and responsibilities.

Work and daily life

Consider how treatment might impact your ability to work, care for family, or engage in activities you enjoy.

Emotional and psychological impact

Navigating feelings of uncertainty and anxiety. How might treatment affect your mental health and well-being? (Identify useful coping strategies)

Financial cost

Do the math - treatment costs of each option, insurance coverage and the impact on your budget & financial obligations.

Support systems

Evaluate the availability and quality of support channels i.e. family, friends, support groups etc as they play a crucial role in your treatment journey and recovery.

We recommend discussing these factors in detail with your doctor to determine your next steps.

 

Consider a second opinion

Seeking a second opinion from another doctor can be beneficial in confirming a diagnosis, revealing alternative treatments and insights that may not have been initially considered.

 

Most importantly, this ensures you are fully informed in your treatment decisions.

Article

Treatment options for breast cancer

Taking care of your emotions

Getting a cancer diagnosis is understandably difficult. It is important to take steps to ensure that your emotional health is also looked after.

 

Managing emotions

Your emotions are likely to fluctuate as you progress through your treatment. Allow yourself to experience them without judgment. 

  • Coping with a sense of loss and denial: Whether it’s losing a sense of normalcy or adjusting future plans, seeking support helps you manage emotions and adapt.
  • Managing intense anxiety: Uncertainty and worry make it hard to focus on other aspects of life. Remember it’s perfectly okay to seek support during this time.
  • Understanding 5 Stages of Grief*: Understanding Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression and Acceptance, can provide clarity and help you navigate this emotionally.

BCF offers counseling services to support you through the emotional challenges of breast cancer. Reach out to us to learn more.

 

*References: Kübler-Ross, E., & Kessler, D. (2005). On Grief and Grieving: Finding the Meaning of Grief Through the Five Stages of Loss. Scribner.

 

Put yourself first

If you often put others’ needs over your own, remember that you matter, especially now.  

 

Prioritize yourself and focus on self-care to manage this challenging time with greater strength and clarity. 3 important steps to take: 

  • Discuss work: Talk to your employer and loved ones to adjust work arrangements and establish support systems.
  • Practice self-care: Engage in activities and pursue hobbies that nurture both your physical and emotional health.
  • Join a support group: Connect with other breast cancer survivors who have been through similar experiences.

Find support

A breast cancer diagnosis is overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. While it’s natural to hesitate, overcoming reluctance to share with others and seek help is a sign of courage & strength. Besides, opening up can significantly ease your emotional burden.

 

Discover our BCF Befriending programme, which connects you with others who have been through it all, providing strength, insight and comfort.  You will also gain access to enhanced support programmes and resources, ensuring your well-being throughout treatment. 

 

Don’t wait until it’s too late – reach out now for more information

Emotional support

BCF Support Groups

many hands holding in solidarity
Emotional support

BCF Befriending

Friend sharing a happy hug with patient

More information to help you

Downloadable

The Adventure Jar Book

Video

Genetic testing for breast cancer

Article

Breast cancer glossary

Personal story

Journeys of young women with breast cancer in Singapore

take charge of your breast health banner

Programmes to support you

We are here to provide you with holistic support – be it emotional and psychosocial, or advising you on practical matters. Explore how our programmes can help you. 

BCF Befriending

BCF Support Groups

Get immediate support

If you’ve just been diagnosed with breast cancer, contact us for immediate support. Get connected with breast cancer survivors and access vital resources to guide your journey.

 

Immediate assistance

  • Whatsapp: 9695-3264
  • Call: (65) 6356- 0123
  • Email: enquiries@bcf.org.sg 

Let us journey with you

When you’re ready, join us as a BCF member for enhanced support and resources for your journey.

Disclaimer

All the information provided on this website is correct at the time of edition and subject to revision without prior notice. The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material provided here is meant purely for educational purposes and may not be used as substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare professional if you have any questions related to your health or medical conditions.

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