Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women worldwide with the number of women being diagnosed steadily increasing.
It is indeed a fearful fact to know that breast cancer is so prevalent in today’s world and it seems to be evident in women of all age groups. Whilst it is still known to occur mainly in the age group of 40 to 65 years, the evidence of this cancer occurring in women less than 40 is becoming more apparent and rapidly increasing.
Recently in the United States, an eight-year-old girl was diagnosed with a rare form of breast cancer after finding a breast lump.
Needless to say, this young girl and her family have now been placed in a difficult situation and faced with challenges an eight year old should not be experiencing. She is soon to be undergoing surgery to remove her breast tissue (mastectomy) at such a young age.
This international news has raised concerns in many across the world. It is valuable to know that breast cancer in young girls though worrisome is not unknown and very rare.
Across in the UK, the Cancer Research Centre reported that less than five girls under the age of ten were diagnosed with breast cancer during 2010 to 2012.
At the Pink Hibiscus clinic, we have diagnosed and managed many young women under the age of 40 with breast cancer. Recently, we have treated a young girl at the age of 18 with breast cancer who underwent a mastectomy with reconstruction and then followed by yet another young woman at the age of 22 years.
Dr Robin Wilson, consultant breast radiologist at the Royal Marsden London and at Pink Hibiscus was recently discussing his own experience at his clinic in London with managing breast lumps in young women.
These young women in their early twenties were being assessed for what was thought to be clinically as benign fibroadenomas and underwent biopsies only to be proven as breast cancer.
These cases bring to the spotlight that breast cancer affect females of all ages. It does not discriminate against age or race. As women, young or old, it is important to understand the benefits of being breast aware. Any lumps, changes in the nipple with or without a discharge, skin redness or dimpling are just some of the signs to look for and should be taken with great concern.
While screening with mammography is not approved in the young age group of less than 40, getting to know your breasts through self breast examinations and seeking medical care at a specialised breast clinic is crucial for early detection of breast cancer.
So remember, breast cancer is not just a condition exclusive the older woman. It can occur at any age and in any race. Breast awareness is the key to fighting breast cancer.
Dr Shashta Sawh
Breast Physician
5 Adam Smith Square, Woodbrook
Port-of-Spain
Contact: (868) 627-1010
Website: www.pinkhibiscustt.com