Expert talk
back to blog
17.3.2021

Can breast cancer happen at any age?

Unfortunately YES.

Young women (under 40 years of age) usually do not consider themselves at risk for the disease.
However, it is necessary to know the risk factors as some will need earlier and more differentiated tests.
There are several risk factors that can cause breast cancer to appear in young women:

  • Breast cancer in the family, mainly mother and/or sister and at age below 50 years
  • Ovarian cancer in the family, mainly mother and/or sister
  • Genetic syndromes (families with several cases of different tumours, especially if at a young age).
  • Obesity
  • Excessive alcohol and tobacco consumption
  • Hormone-related risk factors (age at menarche, age at first child, not having a child, age at menopause, use of contraceptive pills or hormone therapy - for very long periods)

Image gallery

No items found.

See also

Can breast implants cause breast cancer?

Recently a possible association has been identified between the popularly known breast implants and the development of a very rare type of lymphoma, called anaplastic large cell lymphoma.
read more

Can I have a mammogram if I am breastfeeding?

During the first trimester of pregnancy the mammary gland undergoes a great hormonal stimulus, so be alert.
read more

What is the right age to start having a mammogram?

According to the Ministry of Health's INCA (National Cancer Institute), women should start to have mammograms from age 50 and every 2 years
read more