Though there is a concerning increase in breast cancer in women under the age of 50, there are steps you may take to reduce your risk.
From 2012 to 2021, breast cancer rates in this age range have climbed 1.4% annually, according to a new American Cancer Society analysis. Asian American and Pacific Islander women of any age have witnessed the highest increase since 2000—a 2.5% to 2.7% annual rise.
Chief medical correspondent for CBS News Dr. Jon LaPook notes that a lot of this increase is in the types of breast cancer driven by oestrogen.
LaPook said on Tuesday, “CBS Mornings Plus,” “What the researchers have noticed is that periods in young girls are starting at an earlier age, and women are tending to delay their first child, so that’s more cycles, and more cycles is more surges of estrogen, and potentially that’s fuelling it.” Obesity is another issue. Another explanation for more oestrogen is an enzyme called aromatase fat, which changes testosterone to oestrogen.”
LaPook also spoke with Rebecca Siegel, senior author of the American Cancer Society’s report, who referred to alcohol as another element behind why we’re seeing rises.
“Women in their 30s and 40s have been binge-drinking alcohol; it raises their risk of breast cancer,” LaPook added. “About sixteen percent of all breast cancers are from alcohol.”
The causes underlying the rise among Asian American and Pacific Islander women are not as well known, LaPook stated.
“That group had a low risk and now, wham, they’re right up to where White women are,” he said. “UC San Francisco is working on a large research on this right now. And like in the past, we see tremendous variation in outcomes in Black women. And again, that’s something that has been the focus of a lot of studies.”
In order to better understand cancer inequalities, risks, and outcomes, the American Cancer Society initiated the VOICES of Black Women research earlier this year, which intends to enroll over 100,000 Black women in the U.S.
The current report did provide some positive news, though.
“Over the last 33 years — 44% decrease in death from breast cancer. That’s more than 500,000 deaths that have been prevented,” LaPook added.
The American Cancer Society attributes this promising trend to breakthroughs in early detection and therapy.
Unfortunately, not all women have benefitted equally, and among Native American women there has been no decline.
“Women today are a lot less likely to die from breast cancer, but alarming disparities still remain, especially for Asian American, Pacific Islander, Native American, and Black women,” Dr. William Dahut, chief scientific officer at the American Cancer Society, said in a news release about the report. “These gaps need to be rectified through systematic efforts to ensure access to high-quality screening and treatment for every woman.”
Breast Cancer FAQ: What You Need to Know
1. What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is a complex disease where cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, often forming a tumor that can be invasive or non-invasive, depending on whether it spreads to other tissues.
2. What Are the Early Signs?
Early signs can be subtle: a lump, nipple discharge, changes in breast shape, dimpling, or skin texture resembling an orange peel.
3. Who is at Risk?
Women over 50, those with a family history, genetic mutations (like BRCA1/2), or prolonged estrogen exposure have elevated risk. Lifestyle factors like alcohol, obesity, and inactivity also play a role.
4. Can Men Get Breast Cancer?
Yes, although rare. Men can develop breast cancer, especially if they have high-risk mutations or hormonal imbalances.
5. How is Breast Cancer Diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves mammograms, ultrasounds, biopsies, and sometimes MRIs, depending on the complexity of the case.
6. What Are the Main Types?
Breast cancer types include ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC), and aggressive subtypes like triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).
7. What Are the Treatment Options?
Treatment ranges from surgery (lumpectomy, mastectomy) and radiation to chemotherapy, hormonal therapies, targeted drugs, and, for some, cutting-edge immunotherapy.
8. Is Breast Cancer Curable?
Durability depends on the stage at diagnosis. Early-stage cancers have a high success rate, while metastatic cases are managed to prolong life and control symptoms.
9. Can Lifestyle Changes Help Prevent It?
Yes! Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, limiting alcohol, and avoiding smoking reduce risk. High-risk individuals may consider preventative medications or surgeries.
10. What’s New in Research?
Emerging therapies like PARP inhibitors, CAR-T cells, and AI-driven diagnostics are redefining detection and treatment, offering hope for resistant or recurrent cases.
11. Does Breast Cancer Recur?
Yes, it can recur locally, regionally, or as distant metastasis, especially in more aggressive forms. Regular monitoring and follow-ups are crucial.
12. How Can I Support Someone with Breast Cancer?
Be empathetic, listen without judgment, offer practical help, and educate yourself to provide informed support. Above all, respect their journey and choices.
