Written By: Tania Tarafdar | Published : October 31, 2015 9:34 AM IST
I am a 28-year old woman. I have heard that women above 40 are usually at a risk of breast cancer. Do I have nothing to worry? Should I get my breasts examined regularly?
Most younger women do not consider themselves to be at a risk of breast cancer. But you are never too young to get breast cancer and you may be a victim of the condition at any age says Dr Dhairasheel Savant, Treasurer Indian Society of Oncology, Consultant Cancer & Reconstructive Surgeon at the Asian Institute of Oncology. While it is true that the disease is common in post-menopausal women, 20 percent of women suffering from breast cancer are below 40 years of age. It is now a leading cause of death among young women aged 15-34. So do not ignore the warning signs like a lump or unusual discharge. Be aware of the risk factors for breast cancer and make sure that you have your breasts examined at least once a year and start your regular mammographic sessions once you turn 40.
Though, there is little risk of a breast lump in younger women being cancerous, if you feel a growth, it s always better to have it checked at the earliest. If you can feel a lump in your breasts and your family doctor dismisses your concern by saying you are too young to suffer from breast cancer, make sure you get a second opinion. Diagnosing breast cancer in younger women can be difficult as the breast tissue is denser than the tissue in older women. Therefore, make sure that you schedule a mammogram for yourself.
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