By Dr. Samantha Ristimaki, BSc, ND of Balance Wellness Center

Breast Cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in young women ages 20-59, accounting for 37% of new cases and 22% of deaths.  An estimated 4,415 Canadian women under the age of 50 will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, and close to 575 will die.

With more women being affected by breast cancer, education and awareness are extremely important in the fight against this disease.  The treatments for women with breast cancer have advanced significantly over the past few years, however early detection is still a woman’s best bet in conquering breast cancer.

Genetic factors, although very important, are not the only risk factors that predispose young women to breast cancer.  Hormones, environment, lifestyle and personal health history play a big role. 

 Are you at higher risk?

First period before 12 years of age

First child after 30 or no children at all

Mother, sister or daughter with breast cancer

Female relative with ovarian or endometrial cancer

Father or brother with prostate cancer

Overweight or obese

Dense breast tissue

Moderate to high alcohol intake

Smoker

Radiation exposure

Frequent flying

Environmental chemical exposure

High fat diet

Fibrocystic breast disease

Personal history of breast cancer

Oral contraceptive use

Hormone replacement therapy

Lack of physical activity

Shift work and night working 

Even if you do not fall into any of the above categories, it is important to get to know your breasts and pay careful attention to any changes that occur.  Look, touch and pay attention to how they feel.  It’s important to be aware of the following:

LUMPS – Palpable masses in any area of the breast and the tissue up to the armpit or unusual thickening of breast tissue that doesn’t go away after your period.

PAIN & SENSATION – It’s normal to experience breast tenderness before your period but pain, swelling or itching in a localized area is not normal.

SIZE & SHAPE – Rapid unexplained changes in the size, shape or position of one or both breasts or the appearance or direction of the nipples.

TEXTURE – Dimpling, puckering, scaling or redness of the skin that doesn’t go away.

DISCHARGE – Sudden onset of nipple discharge or comes from only one breast.

Consult your medical provider should you notice any of the above.  Ensure you get yearly PAP tests and breast exams at least every 3 years. If you have a family history of breast cancer, talk to your medical provider about more frequent screenings.