Globally, breast cancer cases have increased by 20 per cent since 2008 (Courtesy: HealthXChange).
A recent study has uncovered a significant increase in breast cancer diagnoses among Canadian women in their twenties, with a rise of 45% since 1984. The research, conducted by the Canadian Association of Radiologists Journal, analyzed data spanning 35 years from the Canadian Cancer Registry and the National Cancer Incidence Reporting System, both administered by Statistics Canada.
The study reveals that over the same period, there has been a 12% increase in breast cancer diagnoses for women in their thirties and a 9% increase for those in their forties. Globally, cases of breast cancer have surged by 20% since 2008.
Alarmingly, breast cancer emerges as the leading cause of mortality for women aged 30 to 49. It ranks second only to accidental deaths or unintentional injuries among causes of female mortality. Currently, the majority of breast cancer screenings target women over 50. However, the study highlights that younger women in their forties diagnosed with breast cancer are often at advanced stages, with reduced chances of survival.
The study underscores conflicting recommendations regarding breast cancer screening. While the 2001 Canadian Task Force Preventive Health Care guidelines advocate for screening women in their forties, this recommendation was reversed in the 2011 guidelines.
The report includes the poignant story of 37-year-old Toronto resident Lauren Kehl, who received a cancer diagnosis last year during an ultrasound. In response, Kehl became the top fundraiser for Breast Cancer Canada (BCC), dedicating herself to raising funds for breast cancer research.
Toronto hosts numerous fundraising events for breast cancer research, such as the Walk to Conquer Cancer, the Quest to Conquer Cancer organized by the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation, and the Canadian Cancer Society Run for the Cure. In particular, BCC is organizing a Mother's Day Walk-a-Thon, offering both in-person and virtual participation options to raise additional funds for cancer research.
