How worried should I be about breast cancer?

Question

I'm only 19 years old and my doctor told me that there is practicly no chance of me getting breast cancer at this age and for right now all I have to do is the monthly self exams. My one grandmother died of breast cancer in her late 50's, so naturally I'm worried...how worried should I be and what should I do?

Answer 1

My grandmother had breast cancer and she got completely better and has lived to 74 and is still living. (she was late 40s when she got it) Keep getting checkups, if you do get it, it shouldn't be a problem if you catch it early.

Answer 2

The biggest risk factor in Breast Cancer is age. (70% are over age 50)

Family links are usually only considered to increase your risk factor if you have 2 primary relatives diagnosed with breast cancer. A primary relative is a parent, sibling or child.
Grandparent is a secondary relative. Less than 5% of breast cancers are caused by family history.

Be aware, self check your breasts monthly, get them checked by Dr at annual physicals and you should be fine!

Answer 3

hi, you need to learn the basic knowledge of breast diseases and breast cancer.

Please visit http://www.smile.org.au/
It tells you the risk, prevention, symptoms and effects of breast cancer. It also tells you how to do self-breast exam and regular clinical exam. Furthermore, it gives you the diet recommendation.

You can also have a look at the FAQ's item on the website.

Answer 4

everygirl doesnt matter what age they are should be worried about cancer my doctor has told me that he has a patient that is 17 and has breast cancer it can affect any age just keep self checking and dont let it affect you to much

Answer 5

The good doctor is right. Just do your exams and don't worry. When you are in your 30's revisit this with your doctor. See a gynecologist at that time.