Vic is a clinical nurse specialist who supports younger women with breast cancer. We asked her about the rise in cases, her tips for healthcare professionals, and more.
What does your role involve?
At Breast Cancer Now, I support healthcare professionals and the public with issues that affect younger women, including breast cancer and breast health.
A few times a year, I host Facebook Live events and join Younger Women Together events, including Speakers Live. I also lead Breast Cancer Now’s Younger Women’s Champion Nursing group, made up of nurses across the UK.
We’re seeing a rise in breast cancer cases among younger women. Why do you think this is?
It’s difficult to say. From Breast Cancer Now’s Generations Study, a study looking into the causes of breast cancer, we know that genes, lifestyle choices and life events all play a part. In the study, scientists are looking at hormones and small genetic changes, and their impact on younger women.
What are the challenges for younger women with a diagnosis?
Younger women are at a stage of their life that’s often very productive. They may be forming new relationships, considering starting a family, or beginning a career. So, a diagnosis can cause obstacles.
And with breast cancer mostly affecting older age groups, younger women can sometimes feel isolated.
Choosing between treatments can be difficult. Are there any extra challenges younger women face?
Some treatments can affect women's ability to become pregnant. So, younger women may need to think about ways to preserve their fertility, like IVF or freezing their eggs.
What's your advice for healthcare professionals who are treating younger women?
Find out what’s happening in their lives. Ask them what support they have now and what they may need. If they want to consider a family, you’ll need to refer them to a fertility clinic.
Can you recommend any resources to signpost women to?
You can signpost women aged 20 to 45 to Breast Cancer Now's Younger Women Together events. They're a way for women to meet similar people and get advice. Breast Cancer Now also has a helpline, forum, Someone Like Me service, and lots of information on fertility, talking to children, and menopausal symptoms.
Hear more from Vic
If you're a healthcare professional, you can join the Women’s Health Professional Care 2024 conference, taking place in London Olympia on Wednesday 28 February at 9.30 am.
Vic will cover common myths about younger women and breast cancer, the signs and symptoms, obstacles to confirming a diagnosis, and more.