Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
My friend is 30 years old. She recently asked about HR-positive or HER2-negative breast cancer. I would like to know what it is.
Is this a type of breast cancer affecting all the age group females?
How is it caused?
How can I diagnose and manage it?
Will it occur through genetic predisposition?
Can breastfeeding young females get this type of breast cancer?
What is the survival rate and prognosis of the people who are affected by this type of breast cancer?
Kindly help.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I read your query and can understand your concern.
HR-positive (hormone receptor-positive) means that the cancer cells grow in response to hormones like estrogen or progesterone.
HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2)-negative means the cancer cells do not have an excess of the HER2 protein, which can cause faster growth in some types of breast cancer.
It is more common in postmenopausal women.
The causes of breast cancer can be genetic, hormonal, and environmental. Depends on age, family history, prolonged exposure to estrogen, obesity, smoking, or alcohol use.
Genetic mutations, particularly BRCA (breast cancer) 1 and BRCA2, can increase the risk of breast cancer.
The diagnosis involves
Mammogram.
Ultrasound.
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging).
Biopsy (a sample of the breast tissue is taken and tested to determine if the cancer is HR-positive or HER2-negative).
Hormone receptor tests (this helps determine whether the cancer is hormone-sensitive).
Early diagnosis is key to a better prognosis.
Treatment options include:
Hormonal therapies (block the hormones that promote cancer growth).
Surgery (lumpectomy or mastectomy to remove the tumor).
Radiation therapy is used to target any remaining cancer cells.
Chemotherapy is less commonly needed for HR-positive or HER2-negative cancer compared to other types.
Having a family history of breast cancer can increase the risk. Young women, those who are breastfeeding, can develop this type of breast cancer, though it is less common in younger age groups.
HR-positive/HER2-negative breast cancer generally has a good prognosis when diagnosed early. Regular checkups will help.
A physical examination by an oncologist or a gynecologist in a hospital is a must.
I hope I have answered your question.
Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards.
Was this conversation helpful?
Answered byDr. Sugandh Garg
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.