Introduction to Rising Breast Cancer Rates in Young Women
Several young celebrities have announced breast cancer diagnoses in the past year — a public reminder that rates are rising among women under 50 in the U.S.
Pop singer Jessie J, 37, revealed this week on Instagram that she has early-stage breast cancer and plans to undergo surgery later this month. Katie Thurston, former star of “The Bachelorette,” has documented her journey with Stage 4 breast cancer on social media after being diagnosed earlier this year at age 34. And actor Danielle Fishel, known for her role on the ’90s sitcom “Boy Meets World,” revealed her diagnosis at age 43 to fans last summer.
Increasing Diagnoses in Young Women
New breast cancer diagnoses in young women have gone up considerably in the last decade. From 2012 to 2021 — the most recent decade of data — the rate increased 1.4% annually in women under 50, compared with 0.7% annually in women 50 and up.
The trend applies to all racial or ethnic groups, particularly Asian American and Pacific Islander women under 50, for whom diagnoses have risen nearly 50% since 2000. Black women have the highest rate of breast cancer before age 40 and are most likely to die of the disease.
Screening and Diagnosis
Women under 40 generally aren’t advised to get mammograms unless they have a strong risk factor for breast cancer, such as a family history or genetic mutation. In that case, the American Cancer Society recommends mammograms starting at age 30, plus an annual breast MRI.
Several breast cancer doctors said younger patients and their clinicians should be careful not to dismiss symptoms such as a lump or nipple discharge.
“The thought was always, if you had a change in your breast but you were a young woman, it was probably nothing,” said Dr. Rani Bansal, an assistant professor at the Duke University School of Medicine. “As we’re seeing more and more younger women get diagnosed … we need to take these cases seriously.”
Aggressive Breast Cancer in Young Women
Dr. Oluwadamilola Fayanju, chief of breast surgery at Penn Medicine, said her youngest patient diagnosed with cancer was just 17. She recommended that young women with symptoms go to a center that’s experienced in breast imaging.
For women with an elevated risk of breast cancer, she said, “it may be better for you to be connected with a dedicated breast provider who can keep a close eye on you and do regular exams even well before 40.”
Breast Cancer in Young Women is Often More Aggressive
As treatment options for breast cancer have improved, the overall mortality rate among younger women with the disease declined from 2010 to 2020, according to research presented in April at the American Association for Cancer Research meeting in Chicago.
But young women are still more likely to be diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer compared with older women. One reason could be that they’re not getting screened as much, so it’s harder to catch cases early. Young women are also more likely to be diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, which tends to spread fast and has fewer treatment options.
Factors Contributing to Rising Rates
There are several mysteries as to why younger women are diagnosed with breast cancer at higher rates. Doctors generally agree that multiple factors are at play, including lifestyle, hormones, and environmental exposures.
Diets high in ultra-processed foods or a lack of physical activity can lead to obesity, which in turn elevates one’s cancer risk. Women in their 30s and 40s have also increased their alcohol consumption in recent decades, and drinking alcohol is linked to breast cancer.
Exposure to environmental toxins such as air pollution, forever chemicals, or microplastics could also play a role.
Conclusion
The rising rates of breast cancer in young women are a concerning trend that warrants attention and action. By understanding the factors that contribute to this increase, we can work towards prevention and early detection. It is essential for young women to be aware of their risk factors and to discuss any concerns with their healthcare providers. Further research is needed to fully understand the causes of breast cancer in young women and to develop effective treatments.
FAQs
Q: What is the current trend in breast cancer diagnoses among young women in the U.S.?
A: The rate of new breast cancer diagnoses in women under 50 has increased 1.4% annually from 2012 to 2021, with a significant rise in Asian American and Pacific Islander women under 50.
Q: What are the risk factors for breast cancer in young women?
A: Risk factors include family history, genetic mutation, lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity, environmental exposures, and hormonal changes.
Q: How can young women reduce their risk of breast cancer?
A: Young women can reduce their risk by maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, limiting alcohol consumption, and being aware of their family history and genetic risk factors.
Q: What are the symptoms of breast cancer that young women should be aware of?
A: Symptoms include a lump or thickening in the breast, nipple discharge, or changes in the size or shape of the breast. If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your healthcare provider.
