Breast Cancer in Young Women: Signs, Screening and When to Speak Up

Breast cancer diagnoses are rising among younger women, including many who are not yet old enough for routine mammograms. What warning signs should women in their 20s, 30s and early 40s recognize, and what should they do when a concern is dismissed?Host Johanna Gomez, a breast cancer survivor, speaks with Dr. Starr Mautner, breast surgical oncologist, and Dr. Reshma Mahtani, chief of Breast Medical Oncology at Baptist Health Herbert Wertheim Cancer Institute. They explain why knowing what is normal for your body, understanding your personal risk and advocating for proper imaging or a biopsy can make a critical difference. Why breast cancer rates are increasing in younger women  Lumps, skin changes, nipple changes and other symptoms that should not be ignored  How lifestyle, alcohol use, genetics and family history may affect risk  When screening should begin and why dense breast tissue matters  Why an ultrasound does not replace a mammogram  When to push for a biopsy or seek a second opinion  Fertility preservation and coordinated care for younger patients  Practical steps women can take to protect their breast health Early detection matters. Know your body, understand your risk and do not ignore a change that does not feel normal for you.Host:Johanna GomezAward-Winning Host & JournalistGuests:Starr Mautner, M.D.Breast Surgical OncologistBaptist Health Herbert Wertheim Cancer InstituteReshma Mahtani, D.O.Chief of Breast Medical OncologyBaptist Health Herbert Wertheim Cancer InstituteIf you found this episode helpful, you may also enjoy:Life After Breast Cancer: Fear, Healing, and HopeYoung Women and Breast CancerBreast Cancer Survivorship: 10-Years Later