Introduction

SINGAPORE – Diagnosed with breast cancer at just 23, Jamie Ng faced a battle that not many her age can comprehend. Similarly, 30-year-old Dawn Chua, a new mother to her one-year-old baby, received the heart-wrenching news that would change her life forever. Despite the grim statistics—one in 13 women in Singapore will face breast cancer in their lifetime—many tend to think of it as a disease that primarily affects older women.

Rise in Incidence Among Younger Women

However, recent studies indicate a disturbing trend: the incidence of breast cancer among younger women, particularly those under 50, is on the rise. A pivotal American study published in the Jama Network Open journal in 2024 reveals that since 2016, breast cancer incidence among women aged 20 to 49 has surged to an alarming 3.76 percent per year, compared to just 0.24 percent previously. Dr. Tang Siau-Wei, a senior consultant at Solis Breast Care & Surgery Centre, emphasizes the urgency of this issue.

Statistics in Singapore

At Singapore's National Cancer Centre (NCCS), it is reported that over 10 percent of breast cancer patients—more than 100 annually—are women under 40, as stated by Dr. Ma Jun, an associate consultant at the NCCS Division of Medical Oncology. Notably, KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH) has observed a concerning increase in breast cancer patients under 40, rising from 8 percent to 10 percent between 2019 and 2022. KKH saw a staggering overall increase of 33 percent in breast cancer diagnoses during this time.

Support Services for Young Patients

In 2022, KKH treated approximately 360 new breast cancer patients and has since established dedicated support services for younger patients, ensuring fast-tracked consultations with specialists in fertility and genetics. Meanwhile, Dr. Tang noted that Solis Breast Care & Surgery Centre saw slightly over 400 cases in 2023, with 13 percent of these in women aged 40 and younger.

Factors Contributing to Breast Cancer

Interestingly, local trends indicate that Asian women are developing breast cancer approximately ten years earlier than their Western counterparts. Among potential causes, lifestyle changes such as increased alcohol consumption and obesity are contributing factors. Dr. Tang elaborates that genetics, early onset of menstruation, delayed childbirth, and the extended use of oral contraceptives also elevate breast cancer risks.

Challenges Faced by Younger Women

Younger women diagnosed with breast cancer often face more aggressive forms of the disease, such as triple-negative breast cancer. To combat this, initiatives like the Young Women with Breast Cancer programme at NCCS and Singapore General Hospital provide essential support to women aged 18 to 45, guiding them through their treatment and recovery phases.

Hope and Resilience

Despite the challenges, there is hope. With better awareness and more comprehensive treatment options, outcomes for younger breast cancer patients have improved significantly, leading to longer survival rates. However, the journey doesn't end with recovery; many young women struggle to reintegrate into society and rebuild their careers, social networks, and family relationships while facing the lasting effects of treatment.

Inspiring Stories

With Breast Cancer Awareness Month approaching in October, it's crucial to shine a light on the resilience of those affected. Three brave women in their 20s, 30s, and 40s will share their inspiring stories of survival and strength, demonstrating that while breast cancer can disrupt lives, it can also ignite a passion for life and empowerment that inspires many others.

A Message of Hope

Jamie, a pioneer among young survivors, started a vlog to offer hope and shared experiences to other young patients amidst this daunting reality. Her message is clear: you are not alone, and together, we can thrive beyond this diagnosis!