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Breast cancer is a disease of older women, but it shows no age discrimination. Indeed, breast cancer also affects young women, at a lower incidence and with a more aggressive nature. We will talk further about the characteristics of breast cancer in younger women, its symptoms, causes, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment options.
What is different about breast cancer in young women?
Breast cancer in women less than 40 years old tends to be more aggressive than that in older-aged women. Younger women often exhibit larger tumors, and a tendency for them to spread to lymph nodes or distant sites in the body is greater. In addition, younger women typically do not undergo mammograms, resulting in delayed detection of the disease.
One of the main problems is that breast tissue in younger women is thicker, which makes it harder for standard screening methods, like mammograms. Another reason is that younger women with cancer often feel both mental and physical stress as they try to balance treatment with work, relationships, and maybe even plans to have children.
What types of breast cancer can young women experience?
All types of breast cancer can occur in women of any age, though some types are far more common among younger women. Some of the most common types among that age group include:
Invasive lobular carcinoma: This cancer starts in the lobules, the glands that produce milk in the breast.
Triple-negative breast cancer: This type of cancer doesn't have receptors for estrogen, progesterone, or HER2.
Inflammatory breast cancer: This is a rare but very aggressive type of cancer that makes the breast become red, swollen, and tender.
If you have concerns about your breast cancer risk, it's best to consult with a breast cancer specialist who can assess your individual risk factors
How Common is Breast Cancer in Young Women?
Women worldwide continue to diagnose breast cancer as the most common type of cancer. In 2020, the world reported around 2.3 million new cases, accounting for 24.5% of all female cancer diagnoses.
However, breast cancer among younger women (under 40) is relatively rare, accounting for only 4–6% of all breast cancer cases worldwide. In India, the situation differs slightly, with the disease often manifesting itself at an earlier age. In fact, women under 40 account for nearly 20% of breast cancer cases, a proportion significantly higher than in Western countries.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer in Young Women
A tumor in the breast or underarms is the most common presentation. Ultimately, a physician must assess any lump, even if it is not cancerous.
Change in breast size or contour: Any unexpected change in the size or even in the shape of one or both breasts may indicate an underlying problem.
Nipple discharge: Any discharge from the nipple, especially if it’s bloody, should be checked.
Breast cancer can sometimes be associated with pain or tenderness in a specific area of the breasts. This does not imply that it is always indicative of cancer.
Changes in the skin of the breast: Redness, dimples, or puckered skin can indicate the presence of cancer.
What causes breast cancer at a young age?
Although the exact cause is unknown, certain factors are likely to increase the risk of breast cancer in younger individuals. Some of such causes include;
Genetic Mutations: Genetic mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 significantly increase the risk of this type of cancer.
Family History: The risk of developing breast cancer is much greater when other close relatives, such as the mother or sister, have also had this form of cancer.
Hormonal Factors: Prolonged estrogen exposure may increase the risk of breast cancer if menstruation begins early (before age 12) and menopause occurs late (after age 55).
Lifestyle Factors: Obesity, alcohol use, and smoking have all been associated with a higher risk of breast cancer.
What are risk factors?
Women who have inherited mutations in BRCA1, BRCA2, or other genes have a higher risk.
Radiation Exposure. Women who had radiation therapy to the chest (for diseases like lymphoma) at a young age are at increased risk of developing breast cancer.
Reproductive History: The risk is higher among women who have children older or never at all.
Dense Breast Tissue: Generally, breast tissue is more dense in younger women, which makes them more susceptible to breast cancer.
Ethnicity: Breast cancer naturally begins among Indian women at a relatively younger age than women in Western countries, often between 40 and 50 years of age.
How do doctors diagnose breast cancer in young women?
Diagnoses of breast cancer often occur in the early stages of this disease, and early detection determines successful treatment. Some diagnostic techniques include:
Self-Exams by a Woman: While not a substitute for medical screening, self-exams can help women become familiar with their breasts and notice any changes.
Professional Clinical Breast Exams: A professional performs a manual examination of the breast to identify any lumps or alterations.
Mammograms: Mammograms are a useful tool in the diagnostic processes of tumors but not very dependable in young women.
Young women with dense breasts typically use ultrasound and MRI as imaging modalities to detect breast abnormalities.
Biopsy: A biopsy is done if a region of the breast seems suspicious in order to confirm the existence of cancerous cells.
What are the available types of breast cancer screening for young women?
Breast cancer screening in young women includes:
Women under 40 should generally avoid mammograms unless there is a high risk.
Breast MRI is considered for high-risk patients, particularly those who have an established family history or genetic mutation.
Genetic Testing: If you have a family history of breast cancer or a known BRCA genetic mutation, your doctor may recommend genetic testing.
Treatment of Breast Cancer
Treatment of this breast cancer in the young may include:
Surgery: Surgery involves the removal of the tumor itself and some surrounding tissues (lumpectomy). A mastectomy involves the removal of either the entire breast or both breasts.
Chemotherapy: Younger women are more likely to use chemotherapy, particularly if their breast cancer is aggressive or has spread.
Hormonal Therapy: Treatments like Tamoxifen neutralize the hormones that fuel the growth of hormone-positive cancers.
Fertility Preservation: Cancers, particularly those that require chemotherapy and radiation, may affect fertility. Young women should explore all of their options, which might include freezing eggs before treatment begins.
Conclusion
Given the growing concern about breast cancer in younger women, it is crucial to understand that early diagnosis and awareness of symptoms and risk factors can improve the prognosis. Screening for young women may include self-exams, genetic testing, and MRIs. It is crucial for the young woman to gain knowledge and adopt proactive steps to reduce the risk.
If you have concerns about your breast cancer risk, it's best to consult with a breast cancer specialist who can assess your individual risk factors
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