“Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to health.” Did you know that understanding your personal risk for breast cancer recurrence could help you make better decisions about your lifestyle and medical care? Whether you’re a survivor wanting to stay on top of your health or someone supporting a loved one, this tool is here to guide you.
This easy-to-use calculator helps you estimate your risk of breast cancer recurrence based on clinical, lifestyle, and genetic factors. Plus, it provides recommendations tailored to your risk level.
Breast Cancer Recurrence Risk Calculator
How to Use
Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll get your results in no time!
Step 1: Enter Clinical Information
Start by filling in details about your diagnosis and treatment:
- Age at Diagnosis: How old were you when you were diagnosed? Type your age in the box provided.
- Cancer Stage: Select the stage of cancer diagnosed (Stage 1, 2, or 3) from the dropdown menu.
- Tumor Size: Enter the tumor size in centimeters (e.g., 2.5 cm).
- Lymph Node Involvement: Choose “Yes” if cancer had spread to your lymph nodes or “No” if it hadn’t.
- Hormone Receptor Status: Select whether your cancer was ER/PR positive or negative.
- HER2 Status: Choose whether your cancer tested positive or negative for the HER2 protein.
Step 2: Select Treatments Received
Next, check the boxes for any treatments you’ve had:
- Surgery
- Radiation
- Chemotherapy
- Hormone Therapy
- Targeted Therapy
Each treatment can affect your risk score, so be sure to include all that apply.
Step 3: Add Lifestyle Factors
Your lifestyle plays a big role in health outcomes. Provide the following details:
- Physical Activity: Are you sedentary, lightly active, or active? Select the best match.
- Smoking Status: Indicate whether you currently smoke.
- Alcohol Consumption: Choose your drinking habits (None, Occasional, Frequent).
- BMI: Enter your Body Mass Index (BMI). If you’re not sure, you can calculate it online or ask your doctor.
Step 4: Include Additional Risk Factors
These factors provide extra context for your risk:
- Genetic Mutations: If you know you have BRCA1, BRCA2, or both mutations, select the appropriate option.
- Family History: Indicate whether anyone in your immediate family has had breast cancer.
Step 5: Hit “Calculate My Risk”
Click the big button, and the calculator will do the heavy lifting! Your results will appear below the form.
Understanding Your Results
What Do the Numbers Mean?
Your risk will be shown as a percentage (e.g., 30%) along with a category: Low Risk, Moderate Risk, or High Risk. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Low Risk (0–20%): This means your chances of recurrence are relatively low. That’s great, but regular check-ups are still important!
- Moderate Risk (21–50%): Your risk is in the middle range. Take action now to minimize it further.
- High Risk (51–100%): This means a higher likelihood of recurrence. Don’t panic, use the recommendations to start managing it today.
Personalized Recommendations
Below your results, you’ll find tips based on your risk level. These may include:
- Staying physically active
- Eating a balanced diet
- Limiting alcohol
- Quitting smoking
- Discussing advanced preventive strategies with your doctor
Take these steps to heart, and remember, small changes add up over time!
Why Use This Calculator?
This tool doesn’t just give you numbers; it gives you peace of mind. Knowing your risk helps you take control of your health and make informed choices. It’s like having a roadmap for your wellness journey. Plus, it’s quick, easy, and available anytime.
Disclaimer
This calculator is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.