ABSTRACT
There are presently over 2 million breast cancer survivors in the United States [1]. These patients undergo intensive surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, and long-term, less-intensive endocrine treatments. During intensive treatment, the breast cancer patient is usually under the care of specialists. However, patients may see their primary care physicians for scheduled checkups, treatment of comorbid conditions, and management of side effects or complications from chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. During long-term endocrine treatment, the primary care physician may see the patient more regularly, since hormone-blocking or aromatase inhibitor therapies can continue for years, across stages.
