Thursday, March 26, 2009 Debs asks

Q: breast cancer?

Hi. I'm a bit worried that a may have breast cancer. I am 20 at the moment, but I turn 21 in August. The only family history of cancer I think I have, is that I remember my paternal grandmother telling me that her mum died of cancer, meaning only my great-grandmother has had cancer (I think).

Why I'm worried is because I have a swollen pectoral lymph node- just above my left breast and close to my armpits, but not directly under my armpits. I've not got large breasts and they are really really soft, and I can't really tell whether they change shape or not. I don't know either if I've got lumps or not. I'm not able to get a doctor's appointment really soon, so I can't get checked out within the next few days, and I'm terribly worried.

What are the odds of it being cancer, and what is the life expectancy of a 20 year-old diagnosed with cancer?

I'e done a bit more research and it seems it may be Fibroadenoma. Apparently it's more common for my age group and african americans- I'm African. What's the difference between this and a swollen lymph node, because I'm confused now.

I've always wanted some form of drama in my life, and I guess now I've got it! lol

Thanks in advance for your reply! :)

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Answers (2)

PJ Hamel, Health Guide

3/26/09 12:35pm

Oh my goodness, Debs - this is not the kind of drama you were seeking, I'm sure! But statistically speaking, your risk of having breast cancer is microscopic - nearly non-existent - at your age.So please try to grab that information and hold onto it as you wait for your appointment.

I'm glad you're going to see the doctor; it could be a cyst, a fibroadenoma (as you indicated), or just some swelling related to hormones and your period. But if it's cancer - so, SO unlikely - waiting a few weeks to get examined really doesn't make much difference, as cancer is generally very slow-growing.

I don't want you even thinking about the prognosis for a 20-year-old with cancer; there are so few cases, there aren't any real hard statistics anyway...

So, take deeeeep breaths, and try to relax. I'm sure this will all work outself out - not without a little drama, but with a happy ending. Cheers! PJH

Angi

3/26/09 8:45pm

Debs, I think you've got a really good chance that it's a swollen lymph node caused by any number of things. Since the nodes transport bacteria and waste, it's not unlikely for it to be anything from a fever or cold to the extremes of cancer. In your lifetime you only have a 1 in 7 chance of developing cancer - does that mean it won't happen to you? Not necessarily, because sometimes there's just no rhyme or reason to cancer. I had no history of any cancer in my family and at 31 I was diagnosed with IDC, then 3 years later it recurred.

I know it's easier said than done, but please try to relax until your appointment. Stress does not do a body any good.

So hang in there, and remember we're always here to help!

Good luck!

Angi

Q: breast cancer?

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