Does Hysterectomy Prevent Recurrence?

QUESTION: I was diagnosed in October 2000 with stage II breast cancer. I have no family history of breast cancer, my nodes were negative, the cancer was ER-negative, grade 3. I've undergone four cycles of AC and four cycles of Taxol and radiation. What is my risk for ovarian cancer? Is hysterectomy ever offered as a preventive measure to ER-negative patients?

ANSWER: Without a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, your risk of ovarian cancer is quite low. There is still an association between breast and ovarian cancer in women without a family history, but it's a very low risk. Hysterectomy, which is removal of the uterus, has no impact on your risk of ovarian cancer. Removal of the ovaries is only considered if: 1) there is a known or suspected serious problem with the ovaries, 2) a premenopausal woman with a hormone-responsive tumor is seeking a non-medication approach to anti-estrogen therapy (in some parts of the world, ovary removal is done because they can't afford five years of tamoxifen), and 3) a woman has an inherited gene abnormality that is associated with a high risk of ovarian cancer. Please bring this information to your doctor and together discuss how this applies to your unique situation.

Give yourself credit for all of the hard work you've just been through to secure your health. It's hard to shake off the fear and uncertainty and give yourself room to relax, not worry, and enjoy your life-the life you just fought so hard for.

—Marisa Weiss, M.D.