Who is at Risk?

HER2-positive breast cancer can affect anyone, but factors that might increase the risk include:

• Age – This type of breast cancer can appear at any age, though it’s more common in younger women.

• Genetic Factors – Although rare, certain genetic mutations may increase the likelihood of developing HER2-positive breast cancer.

How is HER2-Positive Breast Cancer Diagnosed?

The diagnostic process includes:

1. Breast Examination – Your healthcare provider checks for lumps or changes.

2. Imaging Tests – Mammograms, ultrasounds, CTs or MRIs are used to examine the breast tissue.

3. Biopsy – A small tissue sample is taken and tested to confirm the presence of HER2 proteins on cancer cells. The two common tests used to determine HER2 status are:

• Immunohistochemistry (IHC) – Measures the amount of HER2 protein on cancer cells.

• Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) – Looks for extra copies of the HER2 gene in cancer cells.

Treatment Options for HER2-Positive Breast Cancer

There are several effective treatments specifically targeting HER2-positive breast cancer. These may be used alone or in combination, depending on the individual case.

1. Targeted Therapy

• Trastuzumab (Herceptin) – A monoclonal antibody that targets HER2 proteins, blocking signals that cause cancer cells to grow.

• Pertuzumab (Perjeta) – Often used alongside trastuzumab, especially for advanced HER2-positive breast cancer.

• Ado-trastuzumab emtansine (Kadcyla) – A combination of trastuzumab and chemotherapy that targets HER2-positive cancer cells while delivering chemotherapy directly to them.

2. Chemotherapy

• Chemotherapy is often combined with targeted therapies to kill rapidly dividing cancer cells and help prevent recurrence. It may be administered before (neoadjuvant) or after surgery (adjuvant).

3. Surgery

• Lumpectomy – Removes only the tumour and a small margin of surrounding tissue.

• Mastectomy +/- reconstruction – Removes one or both breasts if the cancer is more widespread.

• Lymph Node Removal – Checks if the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes.

4. Radiation Therapy

• Radiation may be recommended after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells in the breast or chest area, reducing the chance of recurrence.

Managing Life with HER2-Positive Breast Cancer

Side Effects of Treatment: Side effects may include fatigue, nausea, heart-related issues, and hair loss. Your healthcare team can help manage these effects with supportive therapies.

Follow-up Care: Regular follow-up visits with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor for any signs of recurrence. Follow-up care often includes imaging, physical exams, and blood tests.

Lifestyle Support: Staying active, eating a nutritious diet, and practicing stress-relief techniques can help maintain physical and emotional health.

Support and Resources

HER2-positive breast cancer can be challenging, but support is available:

• Support Groups – Local and online groups can connect you with others going through similar experiences.

• Cancer Support Services – Hospitals often offer counseling, physical therapy, and nutrition support.

• You will have a Breast Care Nurse as part of your journey through breast cancer treatment. Their role is to guide you through the maze of appointments and treatments, to be a source of emotional and physical support and your point of contact for questions and concerns now and in the future.