My teenage daughter has noticed a lump in her breast. Should I be concerned about breast cancer?
Although breast cancer is a common disease, it is exceptionally rare in teenagers. The most common cause of breast lumps in teenage girls is something called fibrocystic breast changes. This condition is benign. Often, teens may also mistake normal breast development for dangerous lumps. If a breast lump is painful, warm or red, then it could be caused by a breast infection and may require antibiotics.
Although breast cancer is rare in teens, many teens do worry about breast cancer. One breastcancer.org survey of 2,500 girls between the ages of 8-18 years showed that almost 30 percent believed they might have breast cancer. As parents and healthcare providers, it is important to educate teens about breast cancer in a way that promotes self-awareness without increasing fear.
Beginning in the teen years, girls should be taught about breast self-examination. She should learn how a normal breast feels. This will enable young women to recognize changes that occur and understand normal fluctuations in breast consistency that may occur monthly. If a teen notices a breast lump, then she should see her healthcare provider for a clinical breast examination.
Teens should also be educated about ways to lower their risk of developing breast cancer, including regular exercise and a low-fat, high-fiber diet. Teens should be counseled that smoking and alcohol consumption increase the risk of developing breast cancer later in life. For more information about breast cancer prevention and breast self-examination, visit www.cancer.org.
