Early-onset breast cancer now accounts for over one-fifth of all breast cancer cases in Victoria, with 1,067 diagnoses out of 5,197 breast cancer cases. This upward trend is not confined to Victoria, with a steady increase in breast cancer diagnoses also on the rise nationally and internationally. Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) is calling for greater awareness, improved education, investment into research, and tailored prevention efforts to address the steady increase in breast cancer diagnoses among younger women. Often younger women are overlooked or even dismissed as breast cancer is associated with older women. Younger women diagnosed with breast cancer face unique challenges that impact critical life stages such as career development and family planning, leading to significant psychological and financial challenges. Katie Elson, now 29, was first diagnosed with breast cancer two days after her 27th birthday. She discovered a small lump in her breast, which grew over time, but her concerns were dismissed by her GP who said the lump didn’t feel ‘nasty’ and that she was too young to have breast cancer. Two years later, Katie’s cancer returned, and she is now living with metastatic breast cancer. “Being diagnosed at such a young age was emotionally devastating. I’ve been dismissed and doubted simply because of my age, but I’m not alone, many young women face similar experiences.” “There is clearly a need for expanded prevention efforts,” says Vicki Durston, BCNA Director of Policy, Advocacy & Support Services. “Health professionals play a pivotal role in recognising symptoms and providing timely advice to younger women. No woman should feel overlooked or dismissed simply because of her age.” Link to media release: https://ow.ly/p7WA50UOskO #BreastCancerAwareness #YoungerWomen #BCNA #BreastHealth #CancerResearch #EarlyDetection
Breast Cancer Network Australia’s Post
More Relevant Posts
-
💖 #PinkOctober Breast Cancer Doesn’t Care About Gender 💖 When we think of breast cancer, the focus often falls on women, and rightly so — it's a significant and ongoing battle for millions. But let's not forget that breast cancer doesn’t care about gender. Men can and do get breast cancer too. In fact, about 1 in 833 men will receive this diagnosis in their lifetime. While this disease is far more common in women, male breast cancer cases have been rising in recent years. To put things in perspective: - In 2024, it's estimated that about 2,800 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer in the U.S. alone. - Globally, breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer, with over 2.3 million new cases in 2020 among both men and women. - Breast cancer incidence rates in men have risen by about 1.3% per year over the last decade, showing the need for greater awareness and early detection for everyone. Breast cancer does not discriminate. It affects people of all genders, and we need to increase awareness for both men and women. Early detection saves lives — whether you’re male or female, it’s vital to pay attention to changes in your body and seek medical advice if something seems wrong. This Pink October, I stand with everyone affected by breast cancer — men, women, survivors, fighters, and their families. We’re in this together. Let's spread awareness, offer support, and work towards a future with better detection, treatment, and care for all. #BreastCancerAwareness #EarlyDetection #MaleBreastCancer #SupportAndSolidarity #CancerAwareness #StrongerTogether #SupportTheFight #EarlyDetectionSavesLives
To view or add a comment, sign in
-
As we wrap up Pink October, it's essential to reflect on the importance of breast cancer awareness and the critical role of early detection. This month has served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing battle against breast cancer and the need for increased screening efforts year-round. Recent data from the CDC paints a concerning picture of breast cancer screening rates across the nation, in 2022, 76.5% of women aged 50-74 years reported having a mammogram within the previous 2 years. While this figure is encouraging, it still leaves room for improvement. Screening rates vary significantly across states, ranging from 64.0% to 85.5% for women aged 50-74 years. This disparity highlights the need for targeted interventions in underserved areas. Mississippi faces a particular hurdle, with the lowest breast cancer screening rate in the nation. The state's screening rate falls significantly below the national average, underscoring the urgent need for increased awareness and access to mammography services in the region. Here is some reminders at the end of Pink October: Regular mammograms can detect breast cancer early when it's most treatable. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force now recommends that women aged 40-74 get a mammogram every 2 years. This Pink October, let's commit to: 1. Spreading awareness about the importance of breast cancer screening 2. Supporting initiatives that increase access to mammography services 3. Encouraging our loved ones to schedule their regular screenings Remember, early detection saves lives. Let's work together to paint our communities pink with knowledge, support, and action. #PinkOctober #BreastCancerAwareness #EarlyDetectionSavesLives #mississippi
To view or add a comment, sign in
-
-
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, accounting for one in three new female cancer cases each year. Women in the U.S. have an approximately one in eight chance of developing breast cancer in their lifetime, with middle-aged and older women at higher risk. Thankfully, breast cancer is highly treatable when caught early. Two-thirds of all breast cancer cases are diagnosed before the cancer has spread to other parts of the body; with early treatment, the five-year survival rate for breast cancer is 99 percent. Unfortunately, Black and Hispanic women are at a higher risk of developing more serious types of breast cancer and are often diagnosed at a later stage. Let’s change that! All women can increase the likelihood of finding breast cancer early by doing the following: 👩🏽 Getting to know your breasts. Checking your breasts at the same time each month can help you understand your breasts and notice if there are any changes you may want to let your provider know about. 👩🏽 Prioritizing your health by getting your annual well woman exam. Your provider may perform a clinical breast exam as part of this visit. 👩🏽 Scheduling a mammogram. Mammograms can detect breast cancer before it is noticeable in an exam. Women ages 40 and older, or younger women at higher risk of breast cancer, should get a mammogram every 1-2 years. Your provider will give you their recommendation for how often you need to have yours done. Charter Oak Health Center offers comprehensive women's health services that can help you take charge of your health and catch any potential issues. Learn more at thecharteroak.org. #CharterOakHealthCenter #BreastCancer #Mammogram #WomensHealth
To view or add a comment, sign in
-
-
As we advance in detecting and treating breast cancer, disparities persist in access to these advancements. New research from Mass General Brigham confirms racial disparities in breast cancer survival: Black women are 17% to 50% more likely to die from the disease than white women, depending on the breast cancer subtype.Dr. Warner emphasizes the importance of recognizing this issue. National initiatives like Equal Hope aim to reduce these gaps. At Mass General Brigham, efforts like United Against Racism and the Lifestyle Medicine Program target improved care for Black women. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/ev-VPzcP
To view or add a comment, sign in
-
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. 🩷 According to the American Cancer Society, "the average risk of a woman in the United States developing breast cancer sometime in her life is about 13%. This means there is a 1 in 8 chance she will develop breast cancer. The median age at the time of breast cancer diagnosis is 62, however, there is a very small number of women diagnosed with breast cancer younger than 45. However, some variations in breast cancer can be seen in racial and ethnic groups. For example: 👉 The median age at diagnosis is slightly younger for Black women (60 years old) compared to White women (64 years old). 👉 Black women have the highest death rate from breast cancer. This is thought to be partially because Black women have a higher risk of triple-negative breast cancer, more than any other racial or ethnic group. 👉 At every age, Black women are more likely to die from breast cancer than any other race or ethnic group. 👉 White, Asian, and Pacific Islander women are more likely to be diagnosed with localized breast cancer than Black, Hispanic, American Indian, and Alaska Native women. 👉 Asian and Pacific Islander women have the lowest death rate from breast cancer. Early detection and regular screenings save lives. Through the Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program, MFHS offers free breast and cervical cancer screening and diagnostic testing to under-insured and uninsured women ages 21 and over." Visit https://buff.ly/4ewOy9i for more information and for eligibility requirements. #breastcancer #breastcancerawareness #breastcancerawarenessmonth #earlydetection
To view or add a comment, sign in
-
-
According to a new report by the American Cancer Society, breast cancer cases have been rising by 1 percent every year among women under 50 in the U.S. Dr. Lisa Newman, a co-author of the report, told to ABC News, "We speculate that it is related to differences in lifestyle and environment given the obesity epidemic and more women delaying their childbearing years and having fewer pregnancies over their lifetime." The report, released at the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, noted that breast cancer risks persist among American Indian and Alaska Native women, with no improvement in death rates. Additionally, Asian American/Pacific Islander women are seeing a nearly 3 percent increase in breast cancer cases. #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth #BreastCancerAwareness #BreastCancer #AmericanCancerSociety #cancerawareness #pinkribbon
To view or add a comment, sign in
-
💖 October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month – Let's Stand Together 💖 Breast cancer impacts millions of lives each year, from those facing the diagnosis to the families, friends, and communities who support them. Every 2 minutes, someone hears the words, "You have breast cancer." But beyond the statistics are real lives—women, men, young, and old—who demonstrate resilience, courage, and strength every day. This month is about more than wearing pink; it’s about taking action: 🌸 Early Detection Saves Lives Regular screenings, monthly self-exams, and mammograms are essential for early detection. Early diagnosis dramatically increases treatment options and survival rates. If you're able, encourage others and yourself to schedule these exams—it’s a simple step that could make a life-changing difference. 🌸 Supporting Research & Resources Incredible progress has been made in the last few decades, but there’s still work to be done. By supporting breast cancer research and patient resources, we're investing in a future where fewer lives are impacted by this disease. Organizations worldwide are tirelessly working on treatments and support programs for patients, survivors, and caregivers. 🌸 Lifting Each Other Up For those fighting this battle, for the survivors, and for those we've lost, let’s raise our voices and spirits together. Share your story, encourage a loved one, or lend an ear to someone who needs it. Small gestures of support can make all the difference. We have the power to bring hope and progress. Join the fight, whether it’s through spreading awareness, supporting research, or simply being there for someone affected. Together, we can create a world where breast cancer doesn’t hold so many lives in its grip. 💪💖 #breastcancer #awareness #empowerment #women #youth #pinkoctober #strength #courage #resilience #hope #support #education #together
To view or add a comment, sign in
-
-
Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women worldwide, with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) accounting for 90% of breast cancer deaths. And 25–30% of women diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer go on to develop MBC. There is currently no cure for the vast majority of cases of MBC, but people can live longer and fulfilling lives if they are provided access to existing and emerging treatments. However, not all people have access to best-practice care. Instead, health inequalities are experienced by many people with MBC – and these disparities are exacerbated in traditionally underserved communities. With breast cancer incidence in women projected to increase by over 50% by 2050, it is vital that these issues are addressed urgently. So how can policy better support people with MBC? Current breast cancer policy is skewed towards earlier stages of the disease. Thankfully, recent work has begun to highlight the need for policy change to consider people with MBC. Today, as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we build on this work by publishing the first in a set of policy briefs outlining the action needed to reduce inequalities in MBC care. This first policy brief gives an overview of the global scale and impact of the disease, and of the three areas of focus for policymakers and health system decision-makers: • Structural and systemic barriers to care • Access to appropriate care along the pathway • Patient experience, involvement and empowerment. The areas of focus will be built upon by three complementary policy briefs released next month. #bcsm #breastcancerawareness #metastaticbreastcancer https://lnkd.in/ee4ScShx
To view or add a comment, sign in
-
🌸 Breast Cancer Awareness Month: The Power of Early Detection 🌸 This October, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’re focusing on the importance of National Mammography Day, a critical reminder for women aged 40 and above—or those with increased risk factors—to schedule regular mammograms. National Mammography Day, first proclaimed by President Bill Clinton in 1993, highlights the life-saving impact of early detection. The earlier breast cancer is detected, the better the chances for successful treatment. Thanks to technological advancements, women are now receiving early diagnoses more often, which greatly increases survival rates—a positive step forward for families, communities, and healthcare worldwide. Breast cancer can touch anyone, and it’s crucial that we encourage the women in our lives to prioritize their health. Regular mammograms are a preventive measure that can make all the difference. The significance of early detection cannot be overstated; it not only saves lives but also leads to better treatment outcomes and peace of mind. At The Missio Group, we believe in supporting initiatives that help improve lives. Promoting breast health awareness aligns with our mission to create positive change and foster a culture of care and responsibility. Together, we can spread the word and remind others of the importance of regular check-ups and early screenings. Join us in raising awareness and encouraging women to take charge of their health. By promoting early detection, we’re working toward a future where more lives are saved through timely intervention. Let’s take action, share this message, and stand together in the fight against breast cancer. #BreastCancerAwareness #NationalMammographyDay #EarlyDetectionSavesLives #SupportAndStrength #HealthAndWellness #MissioCares #CommunityImpact
To view or add a comment, sign in
-
Since 2000, breast cancer incidence among Asian American and Pacific Islander women under 50 years old has increased by 50%, more than 2% every year since 2012, according to a new report from the American Cancer Society. Asian American and Pacific Islander women in this age cohort had the second-lowest rate of breast cancer among all racial groups in 2000. They now have the highest rate alongside white women, about 86 per 100,000. Read more from NBC News. https://lnkd.in/eSqvy2Qy
To view or add a comment, sign in
Quality Systems Coordinator Breast Cancer Fighter Hopes to gain Masters in Lived Experience Consumer Advocacy in Breast Cancer Awareness when I complete my journey in 2025
1moI couldn’t agree more I am travelling this journey and consented to genetic testing I received my results today and it has been found that I carry the CHEK2 gene and my daughter has a 50 percent chance of carrying this as well. Through this testing she can receive early detection testing when she is an adult