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Actually Ann, I did extensive investigation before I agreed to radiation, even though every doctor said radiation was absolutely necessary if one has a lumpectomy. And it wasn't as easy as I was told. My burns were extensive. Towards the end I had them narrow the field as I was getting reactions well beyond the breast, including my stomach.
So I agree with you, at least to the extent that if you get radiation make sure your lungs and heart are out of the field. I was a smoker in past life and was terrified of having my lungs in the field. However, from what I've read the radiation effects, if they come, are in another ten years and since I am already 65, I decided I'd take the chance. Not that I want problems at 75, but it's all a crap shoot in my view. I wanted to hold on to my breast, and from the literature I read radiation after lumpectomy reduces recurrence about 40%.
I have a new cardiologist who is very careful about which tests she orders, citing the radiation issues, but none of my other doctors seems to take that into account. It is good to remember that many of the tests we ask for involve radiation.
Thanks for mentioning it.
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