Study: Breast removal doesn't mean longer life

March 26, 2010 Researchers say, in women with breast cancer who carry a breast cancer gene, they will live just as long whether they choose treatment that preserves their breast, or to have a breast removal or mastectomy.

Scientists say breast conservation therapy with chemotherapy and hormonal therapy is a very reasonable alternative.

Doctors say these findings should buy some recently diagnosed breast cancer patients a bit of breathing room to make a decision.

The findings were presented at a European breast cancer conference.