• More than five years after treatment, 30% of people found that side effects were having a significant impact on their lives. 20 out of 66 people,
    Breast Cancer Care poll, May 2011
  • 'I am a few years post diagnosis. No one prepared us for life after breast cancer, but we live and learn.' Breast Cancer Care poll, May 2011
  • More than five years after treatment, breast cancer had a negative impact on the sex lives of 60% of people. 41 out of 68 people,
    Breast Cancer Care poll, May 2011
  • 'My children were very small when I was diagnosed, and they didn't understand the implications of breast cancer. Now in their 20s they're able to understand.' Breast Cancer Care poll, May 2011
  • More than five years after treatment, 30% of people experienced lymphoedema. 14 out of 47 people,
    Breast Cancer Care poll, May 2011
  • 'Three years ago my support group did a fashion show and at the age of 58 I was a model for a night, something I never thought I could do before.' Breast Cancer Care poll, May 2011

Moving Forward:
Beyond five years

For many people, the increasing amount of time since finishing treatment makes moving forward easier every day. Yet even five years on from the initial shock of diagnosis, breast cancer can continue to have an impact physically and emotionally. For example, weight changes or menopausal symptoms can still be an problem.

Many people are coming to terms with the effects of breast cancer several years after finishing treatment. What’s your experience of moving forward, five years on and beyond?

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