Rising Cancer Cases in Young Women Jana Hocking shares the story of four friends diagnosed with cancer in one year.
A Striking Trend
All four women are under 45 years old. One friend, Nikki, was 45 when she started her battle.
Another friend received a diagnosis at just 34. Doctors told Hocking that they see more young patients now.
Struggles With Diagnosis
Emma was 43 when she found a lump in her breast. However, she waited seven weeks for a mammogram.
She was eventually told she had stage four cancer. Now, she is seeking medical treatment in Mexico.
“My biggest regret is listening and waiting.”
Breaking the Silence
Collette is a publicist who shared her journey online. She did not want her illness to be a secret.
Meanwhile, breast cancer cases in Australian women aged 20 to 39 have nearly doubled recently. Cases rose from 500 to over 900 annually.
Advice From Doctors
Medical experts are baffled by the rise in early-onset cancers. These include bowel and thyroid cancers in younger people.
Hocking urges women to act fast if they feel something is wrong. Many doctors suggest waiting until age 40 for checks.
Finally, Hocking recommends getting a breast check every year. She says cancer does not wait for a calm time.
“Don’t wait. Explore every option.”
