Even when we hear the word 'cancer', we are very scared. And if someone at a young age, especially a woman under 40, is diagnosed with breast cancer, it is difficult to put into words the feeling that comes to mind. The questions that come to mind are endless. 'Why did this happen to me?', 'What will happen now?', 'Can this be cured?', 'Will it come back after the treatment is over?'... You probably have a thousand such questions in your mind. So today we are talking about breast cancer affecting young women to simply answer these questions that you have in your mind.
If cancer develops in one breast, can it also develop in the other breast?
This is a big fear for many people. But in reality, most young women have a very low risk of developing a new cancer in their other healthy breast. Exactly what this risk is depends on several factors.
- Your genetic makeup: This affects whether you have any genetic mutations that increase your risk of cancer.
- The type of cancer you have: There are different types of breast cancer. The risk can vary depending on the type.
- The treatment you received: This risk also varies depending on the treatment you received.
Therefore, doctors usually try to remove only the breast with cancer (lumpectomy) or, if necessary, the entire breast (mastectomy), while preserving the other healthy breast. This is called breast preservation. Unless there is a special risk, removing the healthy breast is not usually recommended.
Is it necessary to undergo genetic testing?
Yes, this is very important. Especially if you are under 45, be sure to talk to your doctor about genetic testing if you are diagnosed with breast cancer.
Why are these genetic tests so important?
There are two types of genes in our body, `BRCA1` and `BRCA2`. If there is a mutation in these genes, the risk of developing breast cancer and some other cancers increases significantly.
The important thing is, even if no one in your family has had breast cancer before, you can still have this genetic mutation. So don't skip this test thinking, "No one in our family has it."
There are several benefits to this test:
- You can know your future risk: If you have this genetic mutation, you can be aware of your risk of developing cancer in the future and take the necessary steps to prevent it.
- Helps determine treatment: Some cancer treatments are determined based on this genetic information.
- It's also important for your family: If you find out that you have this genetic mutation, your close relatives, such as your mother, father, siblings, and children, can also be tested to see if they are at risk.
It is usually recommended to consider this test after the age of 25. But if you want to know about it before then, talk to your doctor and a genetic counselor.
About Cancer Treatment and its Side Effects
You probably have a lot of questions about the treatments and their side effects. Let's take a look at them.
Problems with Endocrine Therapy
Some types of breast cancer are caused by the hormone estrogen. Endocrine therapy, or hormone therapy, works by blocking the action of these hormones. Drugs like Tamoxifen and Aromatase Inhibitors are used for this purpose.
Doctors often recommend this treatment for a long period of time, such as 5 or 10 years . This can greatly reduce the risk of the cancer coming back. However, some people may experience side effects from this treatment. For example, hot flashes, joint pain, and mood changes.
Most importantly: Don't stop treatment just because you think you're having side effects. Be sure to talk to your oncologist. You may be able to switch to a different medication, change the dosage, or use other ways to manage side effects.
Are topical estrogens safe for vaginal dryness?
Another problem that some women experience with hormone therapy is vaginal dryness. Topical estrogens are available for this. However, there is still no clear data on how safe these are for someone with a history of breast cancer.
Therefore, doctors recommend trying non -hormonal moisturizers and lubricants first. Only if these do not resolve the problem, hormonal creams are considered with extreme caution and only if necessary. It is essential to talk to both your oncologist and gynecologist before making a decision about this.
How to live with the fear of cancer recurrence?
Even after all your treatments are over, it's normal to have a nagging fear of "Will it come back?" This is a common feeling for anyone recovering from cancer. There are a few things you can do to help you cope with this anxiety.
| Action | Description and advantages |
|---|---|
| Deep Breathing | When you feel anxious or worried, sit in a calm place and breathe deeply. This will help relax your mind and body. |
| Exercising | Do an exercise you enjoy, like walking or yoga, every day. Exercise releases happy hormones in the body, which reduces stress. |
| Talking | Talking about your feelings with a trusted friend, family member, your doctor, or a counselor can be a much more effective way to cope than keeping them bottled up inside. |
| Healthy lifestyle | Get enough sleep, eat nutritious foods, and reduce alcohol and caffeine consumption, which can increase anxiety. |
Can a young mother who has had cancer breastfeed her child?
This is also a problem for many young mothers. Sometimes it is possible. Several things need to be met for this to happen. Your cancer treatment must be completely finished, or it must have been temporarily stopped on the advice of your doctor. Also, you must have some milk-producing breast tissue and nipples left after surgery. However, if you have received radiation therapy, breastfeeding may be a little more difficult. The best decision is to talk to your doctor about this.
Resources where you can get help
You are not alone on this journey. There are many people and organizations to help you and give you the information you need.
1. Your medical team: First and foremost, it's important to talk openly about everything with your doctor and medical team.
2. Social Worker: Many cancer hospitals have social workers trained to help with psychological and social problems.
3. Trusted websites: When searching for information online, always look only at trusted sources. Websites of internationally recognized organizations like `Susan G. Komen`, `Living Beyond Breast Cancer`, `Young Survival Coalition`, `American Cancer Society` have excellent information.
Take-Home Message
- Breast cancer can develop at a young age, so if you notice any changes in your breasts, seek medical advice immediately.
- If someone under the age of 40 is diagnosed with breast cancer, it is very important to undergo genetic testing.
- Fear of cancer recurrence is normal. Don't hesitate to seek psychological support and try ways to relax.
- If you have side effects from long-term treatments, such as hormone therapy, talk to your doctor and find solutions. Never stop treatment on your own.
- You are not alone in this fight. Your family, friends, and medical team are always ready to support you.
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