Long-term surveillance of previously treated breast cancer survivors by primary care physicians

Abstract

Breast cancer has become the most common site of new cancers in women over the past two decades. The majority of patients survive the diagnosis and have to contend with repercussions of treatments, the possibility of recurrence, or the development of new cancers for the duration of their lives. The primary care physician may be the only professional following these women or may be in a position to evaluate symptoms that have developed since a woman’s last visit with her specialist. This article will present evidence-based recommendations on clinical follow-up by the primary care physician.