Learn how levels of HER2 receptors (HER2-positive and HER2-negative) affect the prognosis and treatment options for breast cancer.
If you have early-stage HER2-positive breast cancer, here’s good news: There are more treatment options than ever. They can help you live longer while you enjoy a good quality of life.
Breast cancer is either HER2-positive or HER2-negative. The HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) gene helps control how a healthy breast cancer cell grows. Genes contain the recipes for the proteins a cell needs to stay healthy and function normally. Some genes and the proteins they make can influence how a breast cancer behaves and how it might respond to a specific treatment. Cancer cells from a tissue sample can be tested to see which genes are normal and abnormal. The proteins they make can also be tested. ...
Treatments for ER+ PR+ HER2-negative breast cancer include surgery, hormone therapy, radiation, targeted therapy, and chemotherapy.
What to know if your doctor tells you that you have "HER2-positive" breast cancer.
HER2-positive breast cancer is an aggressive type of breast cancer that can affect people with changes in the HER2 gene. Learn more here.
Article · Next Steps After Your Diagnosis · Here’s what you need to know about your HER2+ breast cancer diagnosis so you can take your first steps to plan your treatment and get support. Article · Advocate for Yourself at the Doctor · Five ways to advocate for yourself when you have HER2-positive breast cancer. Slideshow · Honor Your Emotions With HER2-Positive · A lot of strong feelings come with a breast cancer diagnosis. Here’s how to process them and support your mental health during treatment and beyond. Article · Practical Life ...
HER2-positive or HER2-low breast cancer is caused by a genetic mutation in the HER2 gene. Learn more about the causes and treatment options for HER2-positive breast cancer.
HER2 is a protein that can cause a more aggressive form of breast cancer. Read about risk factors, symptoms, treatments, and more.
HER2-negative breast cancer is the most common type, with subtypes such as hormone receptor positive or negative. These affect types of treatments chosen, as well as the survival rate. Learn more.