Young Breast Cancer Survivor

Statistically, the number of women less than 40 years old with breast cancer is rare only about 5% of all breast cancers. However, I do feel that I see many young women with breast cancer with young children in my practice. But this could be a bias since I practice in New York City where there is a large population of gene carriers of the BRCA gene. These patients tend to be affected by the disease at an earlier age. Also, many young women with breast cancer are referred to my practice. These women diagnosed at a young age can be very complex since they have many additional issues facing them such as preservation of fertility, genetic counselling, possible prophylactic removal of ovaries as well as a normal breast, body image and sexuality. It is important when treating a young woman with breast cancer, that the surgeon works closely with a team of specially trained medical oncologists, fertility specialists, genetic counselors, gynecologic oncologists and therapists to address all these issues as necessary. Statistically, the number of women less than 40 years old with breast cancer is rare only about 5% of all breast cancers. However, I do feel that I see many young women with breast cancer with young children in my practice. But this could be a bias since I practice in New York City where there is a large population of gene carriers of the BRCA gene. These patients tend to be affected by the disease at an earlier age. Also, many young women with breast cancer are referred to my practice. These women diagnosed at a young age can be very complex since they have many additional issues facing them such as preservation of fertility, genetic counselling, possible prophylactic removal of ovaries as well as a normal breast, body image and sexuality. It is important when treating a young woman with breast cancer, that the surgeon works closely with a team of specially trained medical oncologists, fertility specialists, genetic counselors, gynecologic oncologists and therapists to address all these issues as necessary.

Hi! Yes, diagnosed at 37, had 4 surgeries including a bilateral mastectomy. Currently undergoing reconstruction... which is no fun. Praying my last surgery is in Oct for my exchange. I feel very blessed not to have gone through chemo or rads! I will definitely be checking out your blog! Today is my first 3 month follow up with my breast surgeon.. a little nervous I must say. Hi! Yes, diagnosed at 37, had 4 surgeries including a bilateral mastectomy. Currently undergoing reconstruction... which is no fun. Praying my last surgery is in Oct for my exchange. I feel very blessed not to have gone through chemo or rads! I will definitely be checking out your blog! Today is my first 3 month follow up with my breast surgeon.. a little nervous I must say.