YOUNG WOMEN & BREAST CANCER
YSC is unstoppably, unshakably and unconditionally devoted to the issues facing young women with breast cancer. No two cases of breast cancer are alike. But through shared wisdom and unconditional support, YSC has created a wealth of resources to help young women thrive.
Breast Cancer in Young Women
- Young women CAN and DO get breast cancer.
- Over 11,000 women under 40 will be diagnosed with breast cancer in the U.S. every year. In fact, there are over 250,000 women living in the U.S. who were diagnosed with breast cancer under age 40.
- One young woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every 45 minutes.
- One in 20 women with breast cancer is under age 40 when diagnosed. One in 8 women diagnosed with breast cancer is younger than 45 when diagnosed.
- Breast cancer accounts for 26% of all cancer in women 15–39 years of age and 39% of all cancer in 35–39 year-olds.
- Young women’s breast cancers are generally more aggressive and result in lower survival rates.
The Issues
Young women diagnosed with breast cancer face a myriad of issues that may significantly impact their quality and quantity of life. Some of these concerns are:
- Body Image: It may be challenging for some women to embrace their new body after breast cancer-related surgery.
- Relationships & Dating: Whether married or single, intimacy issues may arise for women who’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer.
- Fertility: Breast cancer treatment may affect a woman’s future plans to have children.
- Early Onset Menopause: Chemotherapy and hormonal treatments can sometimes bring on premature menopause. Symptoms of menopause can significantly impact quality of life.
- Financial Challenges: Breast cancer can dramatically impact a woman’s financial stability when it pertains to workplace issues, lack of health insurance or being underinsured.