Survivorship Topics

In the U.S., most people diagnosed with breast cancer will live for many years. Today, there are more than 3.8 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S. (more than any other group of cancer survivors) [1].

At Susan G. Komen^®, we view anyone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer, a survivor, from the time of diagnosis through the end of life. The American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute use similar definitions [1-2]. We recognize though that not everyone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer will identify with this term or see themselves as a survivor.

Find survivorship topics below for people in treatment for early, locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer, and topics for those who have completed treatment for breast cancer.

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Survivorship During Treatment for Early and Locally Advanced Breast Cancer

Managing Side Effects and Supportive Care

Managing Pain

Quality of Life During Treatment

Support

Financial Assistance

Survivorship During Treatment for Metastatic Breast Cancer

Managing Side Effects and Supportive Care – Metastatic Breast Cancer

Managing Pain Related to Metastatic Breast Cancer

Quality of Life – Metastatic Breast Cancer

Support – Metastatic Breast Cancer

Financial Assistance

Survivorship After Breast Cancer Treatment Is Completed

This section discusses the unique issues and concerns you may face after breast cancer treatment.

Susan G. Komen^®created the Komen Treatment Assistance Program to help those struggling with the costs of breast cancer treatment by providing financial assistance to eligible individuals.

Funding is available for eligible individuals of any age undergoing breast cancer treatment, at any stage of the disease. To learn more about this program and other helpful resources, call the Komen Breast Care Helpline at 1-877 GO KOMEN (1-877-465-6636) or email helpline@komen.org.

You’re not alone

No matter how long ago you completed breast cancer treatment and no matter the struggles you face, there are likely others who have been where you are today.

Sharing experiences and advice with other survivors may be helpful. We have a list of resources for finding local and online support groups. Your health care provider can also tell you how to find a local support group.

After treatment ends, there are many ways to stay active in the breast cancer community. Getting involved can be personally rewarding and can impact the lives of others.

Learn more on the following pages:

Support for People Who’ve Had Breast Cancer

Support for Family, Friends and Other Loved Ones

Getting Involved After Breast Cancer Treatment

SUSAN G. KOMEN^® SUPPORT RESOURCES

If you or a loved one needs more information about breast health or breast cancer, call the Komen Breast Care Helpline at 1-877 GO KOMEN (1-877-465-6636). All calls are answered by a trained specialist or oncology social worker in English and Spanish, Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. ET. You can also email the helpline at helpline@komen.org.
We offer an online support community through our closed Facebook Group – Komen Breast Cancer group. The Facebook group provides a place where those with a connection to breast cancer can discuss each other’s experiences and build strong relationships to provide support to each other. Visit Facebook and search for “Komen Breast Cancer group” to request to join the closed group.
Our fact sheets, booklets and other education materials offer additional information.

How We’re Helping

Thanks in part to Susan G. Komen®’s investment in research in early detection and treatment, breast cancer mortality (death) in women in the U.S. declined 41 percent from 1989-2018 [1].

Updated 11/09/21