These are the main cancers that affect young women – and the symptoms to look out for

Cancer is never an easy subject to talk about. But it’s an important conversation to have. Breast cancer accounts for almost a third of all cancers in women. That statistic never fails to shock no matter how many times we see the figures. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which aims to reduce preventable cancer deaths by raising awareness of symptoms and improving education. It’s also a time to flag the other most common cancers in women as people diagnosed at an early stage have a much higher chance of successful treatment. 

Remember, too, that you should never feel embarrassed about your symptoms and, above all, don’t ignore them no matter how scared you may feel. It’s true that sometimes other health issues may cause similar effects, but knowing your symptoms and feeling empowered to act on them as quickly as possible could make all the difference.

We consulted Dr Tim Crook, a leading consultant medical oncologist in London, who has over 22 years experience, to find out more about how you can check your body for signs of specific cancers. 

Breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer for women in the UK. Around 10,000 women under the age of 50 receive a diagnoses every year and, according to Cancer Research UK, one in seven women in the UK will develop breast cancer during their lifetime.   

“If you have a first degree relative (mum, sister, daughter) who has had breast cancer, this doubles your risk – hence the importance of family history in patients presenting with breast symptoms,” says Dr Crook. “This risk also increases if your relative had breast cancer below the age of 50.” The prevalence of breast cancer in a family may be due to changes in a gene that normally has a protective effect against breast cancer. “There are at least 14 genes (including the well-known BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes) in which changes may increase breast cancer risk,” Dr Crook says. “These can be tested for in a blood or saliva test and the risk determined.”

90% of cases of breast cancer are, however, not hereditary. “The female sex hormone oestrogen drives proliferation of breast cancer in 70% of cases,” adds Dr Crook.

Despite this, a large number of women don’t check their breasts regularly. According to breast cancer charity CoppaFeel! only 36% of women aged between 18 to 35 check their breasts every month. But even if you have mammograms it’s important to check between your appointments.

Symptoms to look out for: 

Breast cancer symptoms aren’t always a lump. CoppaFeel! recommends checking your breasts at least once a month for changes in skin texture, nipple discharge, swelling in your armpit or around the collarbone, a sudden change in the size or shape of your breast and a rash on or around your nipple. If you’re unsure exactly how to check your boobs, our guide to doing a breast cancer check at home should help. Unusual changes in your breast should be checked out with a GP as soon as possible.