I had a mastectomy with lymph node removal in December 2007. I finished my treatments last August 2008. I feel great - occasional pain where my breast used to be and where the lymph nodes were removed. I was diagnosed with triple negative and as you know there are no maintenance drugs for this type of breast cancer readily available. I did not have and do not have health insurance. I was uninsurable because of a bleeding disorder and now I am really not a candidate for health insurance - high risk pool - yes - but cannot afford it - I know there are trial drugs out there for triple negative and I sometimes wonder if my not having insurance hinders my treatment/preventative treatment??? Anyone else have similar circumstances?
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Q: lack of insurance - lack of treatment options??
Answers (1)
8/ 5/09 5:54pm
Lolo, if you're able to see an oncologist, please ask about Avastin for treating triple-negative breast cancer. You may be able to get into a clinical trial; or you may be able to get the drug at a reduced price from Genentch, the manufacturer. I think those would be your best bets. If not, please ask your oncologist if there's anything else you can do, drug-wise. I believe Avastin is the only treatment currently being offered, but I certainly could be wrong... And if you aren't able to access any drugs, take heart; many triple-negative women don't take drugs, and stay healthy. Good luck - PJH
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