Doctors warn young women not to ignore breast cancer symptoms
Medical experts state that breast cancer can affect individuals in their teens and 20s, regardless of age.
Medical professionals are highlighting that breast cancer can affect younger women, including those in their teens and 20s, according to a Times Now report. Dr Deepak Jha, Chief of Surgical Oncology and Breast Surgery at Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon, noted that cases have been reported in 17-year-olds.
Dr Kunjal Lila, Head of Department and Consultant in Surgical Pathology at Metropolis Healthcare Ltd., said the youngest patient she encountered was 19. Dr Mandeep Singh Malhotra, Director of Surgical Oncology at The CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, has treated a 22-year-old, while Dr Sakshi Goel, Senior Consultant Obstetrics and Gynecology at Madhukar Rainbow Children's Hospital, Delhi, has treated a 25-year-old.
Dr Malhotra stated that age should not determine if a breast change requires medical attention. While factors like BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic mutations, family history, and radiation exposure increase risk, many young patients lack obvious risk factors.
Symptoms that require medical evaluation include any lasting lumps, alterations in the shape of the breast, skin dimpling, changes to the nipple, or unusual discharge. Dr Lila advised against self-diagnosing persistent changes, noting that younger women often assume lumps are harmless.
Dr Jha also mentioned that lifestyle factors such as tobacco and alcohol use, poor nutrition, sedentary habits, and sleep disturbances are concerns when assessing risk. Dr Goel added that genetic counselling can help women understand hereditary factors like BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations.