Ask an Expert is a free question-and-answer service about breast cancer and breast health that is available on weekends. If you'd like to ask a question or comment, please visit us again on Saturday or Sunday. In the meantime, please search the existing topics using the search tool at the top of the page. It's quite possible that one of our many existing topics already addresses your question.
If you would like a consultation with a breast specialist at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center, call 443-778-2778. It is possible to get an appointment for a second opinion within a few days of contacting us.
We hope you find the information helpful!
| Forum | Questions | Ask a Question | |
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Questions to ask to ensure you are in good hands Questions on what to ask to make sure your in good hands. |
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| 1/31/2012 | Is full breast radiation harmful to the heart and lungs if it is on the left side? | ||
| Replied | JHU's Breast Center Reply | ||
| 2/1/2012 | Years ago it definitely was. today there are ways to minimize the exposure to the heart and left lung however. Ask your radiation oncologist how this will be done for you. He/she will be able to show you the 3D imaging studies of your torso used to plan your radiation treatments along with the creation of "blocks" to help present heart and lung exposure to the best of their ability. | ||
Please note: This service is not intended to provide primary medical advice concerning specific medical care or treatment. Ask an Expert is a free service operated by health care professionals at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center. Due to the volume of questions and their complexity, there are times when medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists or oncology nurses are consulted for their input. These individuals volunteer their time for this service and will respond as soon as they are able. Please do not post or send the same question to us in multiple locations or categories.