In the past, women over 50 were primarily affected by breast cancer. However, women in younger age groups are now also affected by the Big C. New data from South African research shows breast cancer rates are increasing among young women, mirroring global trends. According to the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in South Africa, accounting for 23% of all cancers. Here’s what you should know to protect yourself.
Breast cancer and young women: the numbers
In the US, a recent study found that breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in women aged 20 to 49. Now we know that these dates are related to the events in South Africa. A 2024 study examined radiology records from patients under 40 in Johannesburg over a five-year period. They found that 73% of test results were positive for breast cancer. And the average age of women diagnosed is under 40? Just 34 years old.
It can be more aggressive
Furthermore, with regard to breast cancer in young women, the Breast Imaging Society of South Africa (BISSA), a sub-specialty group of the Radiological Society of South Africa, warns that young women are more likely to develop breast cancer with aggressive biological features. These cancers often have larger tumors and more advanced stages of disease at the time of diagnosis, making early detection essential to improving outcomes. According to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF), young women with breast cancer have a higher risk of developing triple-negative breast cancer – for which there are fewer treatment options (but slowly improving) – as well as a recurrence five or 10 years later Therapy.
Why are younger women affected?
The BCRF notes that inherited genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 are more common in women, contributing to the increase in BC.
Other risk factors include:
- Family members with:
- Breast cancer before the age of 50 or Breast cancer in both breasts or Breast cancer as a man
- Ovarian, pancreatic or metastatic prostate cancer
- triple negative breast cancer (TNBC)
- You had your first period before you turned 12
- Be pregnant over 30 or not give birth
READ MORE: My experience with breast cancer at age 27
Carry out regular check-ups
Dr. Peter Schoub, Chairman of BISSA, emphasizes the importance of early detection through regular self-examinations from the age of 20 and annual mammograms from the age of 40. “Awareness and education about breast cancer in young women can lead to earlier diagnosis and less invasive treatment options,” says Dr. Schoub. “The growing number of younger women being diagnosed with breast cancer highlights the need to expand awareness campaigns and improve screening programs, particularly for women at higher risk.”
And if you have medical help, take advantage of your free mammography offers. “Although most major medical facilities offer free mammography screenings for women over 40, only about 20% of women utilize this service,” says Dr. Schoub. “We also need to be aware that breast cancer is increasingly being detected in women in their 30s, who experience more aggressive forms of the disease that can spread rapidly if not detected early.”
Dr. Schoub says that while the risk of breast cancer increases with age, the disease does not discriminate: Women of all ages, races and socioeconomic backgrounds can be affected.
“This is why routine self-exams and clinical breast exams by a healthcare professional at least once a year are essential,” he explains. “Any abnormality, regardless of age or family history, should be immediately evaluated by a doctor.”
He says the goal of breast cancer screening is to detect the disease before symptoms appear. “Cancers detected through routine screening are often smaller and localized, increasing the chances of successful treatment and survival. The size of the tumor and the spread of the cancer are crucial factors in the prognosis.”
WH Breast Cancer Awareness Guide
Dive in and let this Digi magazine arm you with actionable information so we can move towards a world where breast cancer is much easier to beat. Let’s work hand in hand to raise awareness, support those in need and contribute to the ongoing fight against breast cancer. With early detection and an army of knowledgeable women, this is possible!
How to protect yourself from breast cancer as a young woman
Other ways to protect yourself include lifestyle changes.
Stay in shape
Previous research suggests that obesity or being overweight increases the risk of breast cancer and other cancers.
Stop the vices
Hard to hear, but necessary: Excessive alcohol consumption (no more than one drink a day, says the Prevent Cancer Organization) increases your risk. Lack of physical activity, smoking and a diet high in saturated fats also contribute to the risk.
Use meat sparingly
Studies show that higher intakes of red meat, animal fats, and processed meats correlate with higher rates of breast cancer (and other cancers). Your move: Swap them for beans, lentils, nuts and vegetables.
Load up on veggies
The five meals a day really help: They contain more fiber and are linked to lower breast cancer rates. Vegetables and fruits are also rich in antioxidants that protect against inflammation.
Treat yourself to some sun
South Africans have alarmingly high rates of vitamin D deficiency. Black South Africans are most affected, with almost 63% living with a vitamin D deficiency. According to CANSA, vitamin D could also play a role in cancer. “Research suggests that women with low vitamin D levels have a higher risk of breast cancer. Vitamin D may play a role in controlling normal breast cell growth and may potentially stop the growth of breast cancer cells,” they note.
READ MORE: 11 Symptoms of Breast Cancer in Women That Are Not Lumps
How to examine your breasts yourself
“The breast changes throughout the menstrual cycle and it is important to always self-exam at the same time of the month, usually a week after your period, when your breasts are less sensitive due to fluctuations in hormone levels,” explains BISSA. Here’s how to check them.
Conduct a visual inspection
Sit or stand in front of a mirror without clothing, arms stretched to your sides, and look for changes in size, shape, symmetry, wrinkles, and dimples.
Then do a physical exam
- Lie down to help your breast tissue expand and feel it better, or use soap to glide over your breasts more easily in the shower:
- Use the pads of your three middle fingers to examine, not your fingertips.
- Apply different levels of pressure – light to feel the breast tissue closest to the skin, medium to feel deeper, and firm to feel the tissue closest to the breast and ribs.
- Use a methodical technique, e.g. B. Start near the collarbone and then move clockwise toward the nipples.
- Plan enough time and do not rush the exam.
Signs to look out for
It is important to note that many lumps may turn out to be harmless, but it is important that they all be examined. Visit your doctor if you notice any of these changes:
- swelling of all or part of the breast,
- skin irritation, dents or grooves on the skin,
- nipple pain or inward turning nipple,
- redness, scaling or thickening of the nipple or breast skin,
- A nipple secretes milk other than breast milk, or
- A lump or lump near the armpit.
Michelle is a features editor at WH. She is extremely curious about the world, has a passion for health and wellness, and enjoys good surfing when the waves are good.