Breast cancer?? When do you get it?

Question

1. How do you know you have breast cancer? What does it feel like?

2. What age can you start to get breast cancer

Any info will help thank you

Answer 1

Your second question first. Breast cancer is mainly a disease of ageing; 80% of those diagnosed with it are over 50, it's rare in women under 40 and almost unheard of in under 25s.

The American Cancer Society and other cancer organisations recommend that women start regular breast self-examination at the age of 20.

Are you asking because you're worried you have it? I see from your Q&A that you're very young  - just starting high school. Please understand that at your age your chances of having breast cancer are just about zero.

How do you know when you have it? You don't, there is no way to self-diagnose. Someone will see their doctor because they have possible symptoms; if the doctor is concerned, s/he will send the patient for tests. No doctor can tell whether someone has breast cancer until the appropriate tests have been done. Or possible symptoms are discovered at the routine mammograms women over 40/50 have.

What does it feel like? Early breast cancer usually has no symptoms; most people diagnosed with it have felt no pain.

If you are worried, talk to your mother, who will probably be able to reassure you.

But bear in mind how very, very, very unlikely it is that someone as young as you has breast cancer.