The rates of breast cancer among women under the age of 50 are on the rise in Canada, according to a study led by Dr. Jean Seely. The study, published in the Canadian Association of Radiologists Journal, examined breast cancer cases over 35 years to identify trends in breast cancer detection in Canada. Dr. Seely, who is the Head of Breast Imaging at The Ottawa Hospital, noted that breast cancer in younger women tends to be detected at later stages and is often more aggressive. This is concerning as younger women are not regularly screened for breast cancer, leading to delayed diagnosis and more severe outcomes.
The research team, which also included Larry Ellison from Statistics Canada and Dr. Anna Wilkinson, analyzed data from the National Cancer Incidence Reporting System and the Canadian Cancer Registry at Statistics Canada to look at breast cancer diagnoses among women aged 20 to 54. The findings revealed increasing rates of breast cancer among women in their Twenties, Thirties, and Forties. For example, there was a 45.5% increase in breast cancer cases among women in their Twenties between 1984 and 1988 and 2015 and 2019. These results underscore the importance of targeting younger women in breast cancer awareness campaigns and screening programs, which have traditionally focused on women over 50.
Chelsea Bland, a young breast cancer survivor, shared her personal experience with the disease, emphasizing the importance of awareness and early detection. Chelsea discovered a lump in her breast at the age of 28, which led to a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Despite being cancer-free for two years, she continues to undergo hormone therapy. Chelsea’s experience motivated her to establish a support group for younger women affected by breast cancer, where she advocates for increased awareness and understanding of the disease in younger age groups.
The study’s findings highlight the need for more research to better understand the reasons behind the increasing rates of breast cancer among younger women. This information could be used to develop targeted intervention strategies aimed at improving early detection and outcomes for this population. Dr. Seely and Dr. Wilkinson stress the importance of raising awareness among healthcare professionals and the public about the rising incidence of breast cancer in younger women. They also advocate for adapting existing strategies and policies to address these changing trends and ensure that all women, regardless of age, have access to necessary information and resources for detecting and combating breast cancer.
Overall, the study underscores the growing need to address the rising rates of breast cancer among younger women in Canada. By increasing awareness, improving early detection efforts, and providing necessary support and resources for younger women, it is possible to make a meaningful impact in combating this disease and improving outcomes for those affected.
