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Strong family history of cancer and Enbrel

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Rheumatoid Arthritis
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Posted 12/2/2007 12:48 AM (GMT 0)
I have been on Arava, Imuron and Methatrexate with absolutely NO relief.  My rheumatologist is recommending I go on Enbrel but I'm concerned because I have a strong family history of cancer. 

 

Is Enbrel recommended if there is a strong family history of cancer? 

Your input on this issue is greatly appreciated! 

Posted 12/2/2007 4:35 AM (GMT 0)
Is Lymphoma one of the cancers that runs in your family? If so, I would definitely talk to the doctor about it. I have cancer on both sides of my family, Lymphoma is not one of them. I was on Enbrel, switched to Remicade and most likely will be on Humira pretty soon. I started with the Enbrel about 4 years ago. So far so good.

The cancer issue is a real fear and I understand it. What decided it for me, after I had a long talk with my rheumy, was quality vs. quantity of life. As scared as I was, the Enbrel worked wonders for me (as did the Remicade).

I was able to get on with my life and do the things I wanted to - that alone was worth the risk, for me. Talk to your doctor and then make your decision. Good luck.

~S.
Posted 12/3/2007 11:47 AM (GMT 0)
hi roja, i am not expert but the way i understand it is .....
it is not understood if our medications increase our risk for cancers or the fact that many of us have autoimmune systems that attack us incorrectly. i have RA and all my meds including enbrel list cancer as a possible side effect but my rhuemmy told me RA may be linked to the cancer, and not the the treatments. i also think the types of cancers in your family might matter? lung -smoking related or breast - hormone induced type etc......
i think when erin gets back she will explain it more clearer?
good luck in your search for information. yally
Posted 12/6/2007 3:10 AM (GMT 0)
Thank you for the response regarding the use of Enbrel and a family history of cancer.  I believe I have reached the point with my RA that I need to take something that provides some relief from the pain and restriction on movement the disease has caused.  

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