A breast cancer diagnosis is likely the most traumatic time of a person’s life. Having recently completed treatment for breast cancer, this issue is near and dear to my heart. Early detection equals cure and the later cancer is diagnosed, the more extensive the treatment and the less successful the outcome will be.
If you are diagnosed with breast cancer, the treatment options can be overwhelming. Women (and men too) are faced with a myriad of choices. Amongst them, am I a candidate for a mastectomy, how effective is radiation and do I need it in conjunction with chemotherapy, what chemotherapy is best for my type of cancer? What type of surgery am I looking at and how will that affect the appearance of my breasts? What additional types of medications will I need and how long will I need them for?
The choices can be overwhelming, particularly at a time when you are feeling most vulnerable.
Women with more advanced cancer may be faced with a decision about chemotherapy agents. Taxotere and Taxol are two commonly recommended chemo agents. Both can have long-term consequences. Taxol is known to increase the risk of long-term neuropathy (numbness in your extremities such as fingers and toes). Taxotere has less risk of long-term neuropathy but does have a small risk of permanent hair loss. Recent lawsuits filed in Federal Court show that studies show that a small percentage of women who are treated with Taxotere have had permanent hair loss. Given all that women suffer during chemotherapy treatment, having your hair grow back is one of the small joys in the end. Understandably, the drug gave you back your life but permanent hair loss is a daily reminder of something we would like to put behind us.
If you or a loved one has suffered permanent hair loss after taking Taxotere, the attorneys at Maxwell Graham, PS are here to help you. Please contact Rebeccah Graham at Maxwell Graham, PS if you wish to discuss your individual situation.