Just diagnosed with Breast Cancer — what should I do first

First Steps After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis

I'm sorry you've received this diagnosis. It's normal to feel overwhelmed right now, but taking thoughtful steps will help you move forward. Here's what to prioritize:

IMMEDIATE ACTIONS (First 1-2 Weeks)

**1. Gather Your [ID removed]

• Request copies of your pathology report (the tissue analysis from your biopsy)
• Get all imaging results (mammograms, ultrasounds, MRI scans)
• Collect any lab work or blood test results
• Organize these in one place—physical or digital—so you have them ready

2. Understand Your Test Results According to the NCCN Guidelines for Patients: Invasive Breast Cancer, your care team will test your cancer for:

• Hormone receptor status (ER/PR): Does your cancer respond to estrogen or progesterone?
• HER2 status: Does your cancer have extra copies of the HER2 gene?
• Other biomarkers: Additional genetic features that guide treatment

Ask your doctor to explain these results in plain language. Understanding what type of breast cancer you have is crucial because it determines your treatment options.

3. Build Your Support Team

• Bring a trusted friend or family member to appointments (they can take notes and help you remember information)
• Consider connecting with a social worker at your cancer center—they can help with practical concerns like finances, transportation, and emotional support
• Ask about support groups or counseling resources

KEY QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR CARE TEAM

According to NCCN Guidelines, here are essential questions about your situation:

About Your Care Team:

• What is your experience treating breast cancer?
• How many breast cancer patients like me have you treated?
• Will you be consulting with other specialists about my care?

About Your Diagnosis & Treatment:

• What stage is my cancer, and what does that mean?
• Which treatment(s) do you recommend and why?
• Does the order of treatment matter?
• When will I start treatment?
• What are the possible side effects, and how can we manage them?
• Am I a candidate for a clinical trial?

About Your Options:

• Can I get a second opinion? (This is completely normal and encouraged)
• Is there a hospital or treatment center you recommend?
• What will happen if I do nothing?

IMPORTANT: GET A SECOND OPINION

You don't need to rush into treatment immediately (unless your doctor says it's urgent). According to NCCN Guidelines for Patients: Invasive Breast Cancer, getting a second opinion is a standard part of good cancer care. A second opinion can:

• Confirm your diagnosis
• Identify additional treatment options you might not have heard about
• Help you feel more confident in your treatment plan
• Potentially identify clinical trials you're eligible for

Your current doctor can recommend specialists for a second opinion—most doctors respect this request and view it as collaborative care.

WHAT TO DO ABOUT CLINICAL TRIALS

Ask your care team: "Am I a candidate for a clinical trial?" Clinical trials give you access to newer treatments that may work better for your specific type of cancer. According to NCCN Guidelines, trials often have specific requirements, so ask:

• What trials am I eligible for?
• Where are they located?
• What would participation involve (time, travel, appointments)?
• Are there financial resources to help with costs?

PRACTICAL MATTERS

• Insurance: Contact your insurance company to understand your coverage before starting treatment
• Work: Talk to your HR department about medical leave options
• Financial assistance: Ask your care team about programs that help with treatment costs, medications, and supportive care

RESOURCES FOR SUPPORT

The American Cancer Society and NCCN recommend connecting with:

• Your hospital's patient navigator or social worker
• Cancer support organizations specific to breast cancer
• Peer support groups (in-person or online)
• Mental health counseling if you're struggling emotionally

TAKE YOUR TIME (WITHIN REASON)

While breast cancer requires timely treatment, you have time to:

• Understand your diagnosis
• Ask questions
• Get a second opinion
• Make informed decisions about YOUR care

This is your health journey, and you deserve to feel informed and confident about the path forward.

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This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare team for personalized medical advice and decisions.