HER-Positive or HER2+ is a specific type of breast cancer. This is a breast cancer that tests positive for a protein named “human epidural growth factor receptor 2.” This protein, unfortunately, promotes the growth of cancer cells.
According to information available from the Mayo Clinic, cancer cells have extra copies of the gene that makes the HER2 protein in approximately one out of every five breast cancer diagnoses. HER2+ breast cancer diagnosis tends to be more aggressive than other types of breast cancer.
Because of the aggressiveness of this type of breast cancer, it is imperative for people who are actually diagnosed to receive prompt and adequate medical treatment. There are specific treatments available to target the HER2 protein that are effective, and the prognosis for individuals diagnosed with this type of breast cancer is usually good.