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Breast Cancer Recurrence Risk

Meaning

Breast cancer recurrence risk represents the statistical probability that a previously treated breast cancer will return, either locally in the breast or chest wall, or distantly as metastatic disease, after a period of remission. This assessment is a critical component of survivorship planning, heavily influenced by the initial tumor’s biological characteristics, including its hormone receptor status. Clinicians utilize prognostic tools and patient-specific factors to estimate this risk, which informs the necessity and duration of adjuvant therapies. A clear understanding of this risk allows patients to engage proactively in surveillance and lifestyle modifications.