What is the prognosis of HR+ and HER2- breast cancer?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am terrified. I just got diagnosed with breast cancer. They mentioned something about HR+/Her2-, but I blanked out.

I am trying to understand all this medical jargon, but it is overwhelming. I have two young kids, and I am scared of leaving them motherless.

What does that even mean?
Is it better or worse than other types?
What is my prognosis?
What are my treatment options?
I have heard about hormone therapy. How does that work?
Will I need chemotherapy? I am terrified of losing my hair.
And what about surgery?
Can I keep my breasts?
I am also worried about genetic testing. Should my sisters get tested too?

Please give me some information and advice on this.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understood your concern.

Usually, hormone receptor-positive (HR+) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2-) breast cancer have a better prognosis than hormone receptor-negative (HR-) and HER2-positive (HER2+) in terms of overall survival and disease-free survival. However, it will also depend on other factors, such as the stage of the cancer.

There are many treatment options available. The treatment will depend on the stage of the cancer, pathology, and molecular profile of the tumor. Some individuals may only need hormonal treatment, while others may require chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy, depending on the stage and molecular profile.

Surgery is recommended for all the affected individuals with breast cancer. I suggest you also undergo genetic testing for BRCA1 (breast cancer gene 1) and BRCA2 (breast cancer gene 2). If your BRCA test is positive, I suggest other family members also undergo genetic testing.

I hope this has helped you.

Kindly follow up if you have more doubts.