We are now a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to DCIS education, research, advocacy & support.
👉 https://dcis411.com DCIS 411 provides up-to-date research, personal stories and valuable resources that offer support, less invasive treatment options and peace of mind for women diagnosed with DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma In Situ). It is estimated that 60,000+ women annually are diagnosed with DCIS which is considered “stage zero” breast cancer. It is a highly confusing diagnosis. Although it is NOT invasive cancer and most low grade DCIS will never progress, “standard of care” treatments are alarmingly aggressive and invasive. The majority of women, driven by an overwhelming sense of fear and confusion, rush into lumpectomies, mastectomies, weeks of daily radiation, toxifying drugs with harsh side effects along with a future filled with excessive mammograms and biopsies. Even within the medical community, there is great controversy and debate around “over treatment” of DCIS. We are told 50% believe it is a precursor to cancer and 50% believe it will never progress. It has been called “stage zero” breast cancer, pre-cancer, pre-invasive breast cancer and non-invasive breast cancer. There is now a movement among breast cancer/DCIS experts to take the word “carcinoma” out of the diagnosis to undo the current hysteria around DCIS and women seeking prophylactic mastectomies. With all the controversy, it is no wonder women and their families feel confused, overwhelmed, scared, uncertain and pressured. Upon investigation of DCIS, the information overload can send one spinning. Since January 2010, I have been digging for information in an effort to gain understanding and gather support for a healthier, saner way to live with a DCIS diagnosis. Above all, my intuition remains my best guide and resource. We do not need to buy into the fear and hysteria around DCIS. Understanding, not ignorance, is bliss. No matter what anyone says (even medical experts), you and only you will know what is the right path for you. Please visit www.dcis411.com
May you find useful information, support, options and sanity here. Donna Pinto
