Ok, well, I am 21.... i have always heard that cancer can sometimes skip generations, and both of my grandmothers had breast cancer (one of them died from it), and my great grandmother just battled it also... my question is what age do you think that i should have an exam...do you think that i shouldnt worry about it for a few more years? or is this something i should really be worried about and should see a doctor sooner than others?
2006-07-30 08:33:06 · 8 answers · asked by Anonymous in Health ➔ Women's Health
You should see a doctor regualrly, especially if you have a family history of cancer. Breast cancer can come on early and spread rapidly. If it is caught early it can be okay, so be smart, go to a doctor.
2006-07-30 08:36:43 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
With a family history of breast cancer, 21 is not too young to have a baseline mammogram. You may have perfectly healthy breasts at this time, but the baseline will show any changes or abnormalities that may appear in the future, by comparing it with subsequent mammography. You should probably have mammograms every few years while you're young, and annually once you reach 50. In the meantime, do your breast self-exams. Your doctor can show you the technique if you're not familiar with it. Medical technology has come a long way since your grandmothers had the disease, and even though you may be more at risk than someone without your family history, don't automatically assume that you'll meet the same fate. But it's a good idea to be aware, have frequent checkups, and live a healthy lifestyle. The very best of luck and good wishes to you!
2006-07-30 08:51:00 · answer #2 · answered by gldjns 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Okay here is the family history in my case with cancer
My Grandma had cancer (still alive)
My Mom has cancer (currently fighting)
My Aunt had cancer (died about 14 years ago)
My Dad's first wife had cancer (died 14 years ago)
So in my case it doesnt skip generations but if your grandma had it bad and your mother didnt have it at all your chances are prob. about 50% chance of getting cancer. In my case I have a 90% chance of getting a bad case of cancer and 40% chance of getting a easy removal cancer like my grandmother had. Which one of your grandparents had died of cancer? if on your mothers side you will prob. get cancer in a worse form like she had. If not than you aren't in bad hands. Early detiection is the best cure so i suggest seeing a doctor sooner just incase. the most this trip can do for you is safe your life so i think you should go.
2006-07-30 08:47:30 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I also have a long history of breast cancer in my family. You should be doing self exams now and looking for lumps. Mammograms can be started as early as 25. If you are worried, consult your doctor at your next visit. You still have time.
2006-07-30 09:35:02 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
You could probably wait a couple more years to get a mammogram. But don't wait to long sense you have a family history of breast cancer.
2006-07-30 08:39:01 · answer #5 · answered by livelaughlove 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you should have a breast exam atleast yearly because of family history. Mommograms usually start at 30 , but younger females with family history often have one at earlier ages
2006-07-30 11:25:34 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'm 23 and have a similar family history. When I get my "yearly" gyno they always check my breasts so I think that is good enough for now. Once you are over 30 though I think you should get a yearly mamogram.
2006-07-30 08:38:00 · answer #7 · answered by ms mystery 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you feel any lump(swelling) in the breast you should consult your Doctor.
2006-07-30 08:40:15 · answer #8 · answered by Ovaga 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋