Young Women's Breast Cancer Program

Breast Cancer Treatment for Young Women

Young Woman Discusses Her Breast Cancer Concerns Breast cancer is rare under age 40, but when a diagnosis is made, young women face unique concerns about the present and the future. Cancer is always challenging, and it can be even more so at a time of life when family-building and career may be priorities.

Breast cancer types found in young women are often more aggressive than those in older women, and are frequently discovered at a later stage in the development of the disease. Young women with breast cancer may experience issues associated with fertility, intimacy, child-rearing, finance and the workplace.

Our physicians, social workers and staff are committed to working with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs at this time of your life. We'll also provide psycho-social support and help you connect you with others in a similar situation.

The BreastCare Center has a track record of innovative care that is sensitive to personal needs. Our faculty was a leader in pioneering breast conservation (lumpectomy and partial mastectomy) at a time when mastectomy was the standard therapy. We are a significant center of clinical research in new breast cancer therapies, including innovative surgical techniques, immune-based treatments and targeted therapies. Our physician-researchers are widely known for their expertise in hereditary breast cancer, including the BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 mutations, which disproportionally affect younger women.

Meet Our Team

About Breast Cancer in Young Women

There are many ways in which breast cancer for women under 40 is different.

Detection. Mammography may not be effective in detecting breast cancer in young women because their breast tissue tends to be denser. Most young women with breast cancer discover it themselves. At BIDMC, supplemental imaging such as ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) is, however, helpful in detecting breast cancer in young women.

Incidence. Among women and men under 40 who are diagnosed with cancer each year, breast cancer is the most common cancer type at about 11%. The BreastCare Center at BIDMC created its young women's breast cancer program to focus on the increasing volume and the special needs of this group.

Fertility. Breast cancer can complicate fertility, sometimes affecting a woman's ability to have children. Treatment can bring intimacy issues, sexual dysfunction and early menopause. There may also be questions about the safety of pregnancy after diagnosis. Fertility preservation is best addressed in a program like BIDMC's that provides special services.

Caring for young children. Women with young children often must care for them while undergoing treatment and coping with side effects and psychosocial issues that may include anxiety and depression.

Health disparities. African American women are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer under age 35 compared to Caucasian women. Their cancers also tend to be more aggressive.

Hereditary risk. Young women may be at a higher risk for breast cancer if they have changes (mutations) in the BRCA 1 or BRCA 2 gene, are of Ashkenazi Jewish heritage or have close relatives who have had breast or ovarian cancer, especially at age 45 or less.

Research. There is a need for more research on breast cancer in young women. BIDMC has active research programs in this area.

Our Services

The BreastCare Center provides services to address the particular concerns of young women.

Innovative surgical techniques are practiced by our breast surgeons to preserve the breast's natural appearance, including Hidden Scar and onco-plastic surgery.
Advanced breast reconstruction is offered by our Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery team.
A peer-to-peer group offers support for young adults with cancer.
Fertility preservation services are provided in conjunction with Boston IVF.
Comprehensive genetic testing and guidance are offered by our experienced team of genetic counselors.
Scalp cooling helps prevent chemotherapy-related hair loss.
The Center for Intimate Health and Wellness helps women manage sexual health and intimacy issues that may arise during and after cancer treatment.
Lymphedema prevention and treatments are provided by a BIDMC surgical team that is among a few in the world with expertise in innovative bypass surgery.
The BIDMC Cancer Community is an online forum that helps patients with connect with each other to share experiences, information and support.

Research and Clinical Trials

BIDMC is a leading center of breast cancer research and clinical trials.

We are a participating site in the Helping Ourselves, Helping Others (HOHO) Young Women's Breast Cancer Study.

A recent study co-authored by BIDMC BreastCare Center Co-Director Ted James, MD, found that both bilateral mastectomy and breast-conserving therapy were associated with a small but significant increase in survival compared with unilateral mastectomy.

Click here for a list of breast cancer clinical trials currently offered at BIDMC.