“Survival begins the day of diagnosis,” says Dr. Eleonora Teplinsky – and for hundreds of thousands of American women each year, that’s their new reality.
According to the American Cancer Society, 321,910 women in the United States will be newly diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in 2026. Breast cancer rates are increasing across the board, but the fastest increase is among women under 50.
Breast cancer is also one of the most common cancers among adolescents and adults under 39 years old.
Even though the mortality rate is decreasing over time due to earlier detection and innovation in cancer treatment, the increasing diagnosis rate remains a concern.
This week on “Healthful,” Dr. Teplinsky joined me to explain why this happens. She also shares steps we can take to better protect ourselves and how to support our loved ones in their fight.
Why are breast cancer rates increasing among young women?
In Teplinsky’s new book, “Beyond Pink,” she laments the way some women are told “you’re too young for cancer.” But that’s really not the case. Breast cancer cases increase by 1.4% each year among women under 50. This is double the rate of increase (0.7%) among older women.
Teplinsky cites several possible factors as to why this could happen. Diets high in ultra-processed foods and reduced physical activity are common in the United States and linked to a higher risk of breast cancer.
Environmental factors may play a role in increasing breast cancer risk, but with little research to rely on, many doctors don’t know how to advise their patients on steps to take to reduce their risk.
“There’s a lot of interest in plastics and microplastics, like parabens and phthalates,” and how our exposure to them in the environment impacts breast cancer risk in women, Teplinsky observed. “But these are all things for which there is simply no hard data.”
Then there are the reproductive factors. Girls who menstruate earlier are at higher risk of breast cancer in the future, as are women who have their first child later in life.
“Now, you shouldn’t blame anyone for their choices,” Teplinsky noted, but “it’s what happens in the breast during this prolonged period of time when the breast is exposed to hormones” that increases the risk, which should be paid attention to.
What can we do now to reduce our risk of breast cancer
Teplinsky wants to be very clear: “You can do all the right things and get a breast cancer diagnosis, and you can’t do any of the right things and not get a breast cancer diagnosis.”
Cancer in general is multifactorial. A combination of lifestyle, environmental and genetic components come into play.
But even though there’s no sure way to prevent a breast cancer diagnosis, Teplinsky offers some science-backed advice on what women can do now to reduce the risk.
“The first thing is to eliminate alcohol,” Teplinsky said, knowing that “it’s something no one wants to hear about.” Alcohol is a carcinogen directly linked to causing cancer. “This can increase the risk, not only of breast cancer, but also of several cancers.”
Teplinsky also emphasizes the importance of incorporating some form of exercise into your daily routine. She and I agree: “Movement is medicine.”
Regular physical activity – ideally “about 150 minutes on average per week,” as Teplinsky recommends – not only reduces the risk of breast cancer, but also improves cardiovascular and bone health.
Limiting ultra-processed foods from your diet is another step everyone can take to reduce their risk of breast cancer. Teplinsky understands that this can be a trickier risk factor to avoid completely. The American diet is high in added sugars, processed meats, and chemicals, and many ultra-processed foods are cheaper and more convenient.
“Can you make a small change? Can you swap your soda for a seltzer? Can you add an extra vegetable to your plate?” » suggested Teplinsky.
Menopausal hormone therapy and breast cancer
Millions of women with breast cancer feel left behind when it comes to menopause treatment. Hormone therapy has long been considered dangerous for breast cancer patients and survivors. Teplinsky encourages an in-depth conversation with a trusted healthcare provider.
There are a lot of nuances and it’s an “evolving conversation,” according to Teplinsky.
She says there are a number of factors to consider, such as what type of breast cancer you have, what is your risk of recurrence and when were you diagnosed?
There is also personal preference. Teplinsky said some women “don’t even want to think about hormones,” while others feel like they have no other choice and “suffer” from the symptom relief that might be found by taking hormones.
There is a type of hormone that Teplinsky says is safe for breast cancer survivors.
“Low-dose vaginal estrogens, local and not absorbed by the body, can be used in patients diagnosed with breast cancer,” Teplinsky said. “Vaginal estrogens can be used and should be used because they are life-changing for many of our patients.”
Supporting breast cancer survivors
“Survival starts from day one,” Teplinsky said. She believes we should “zoom out” to caring for the whole person rather than just the breast cancer diagnosis.
Supporting someone with a diagnosis takes a village. Healthcare providers, friends, family and of course the individual all play a role in fighting illness.
“We find that social connection, being with people, learning about your community really improves health outcomes” for women with breast cancer, Teplinsky said.
“Talking to people about your health and being proactive is very important,” she added.
If the doctor discovers something that warrants a second look, identifying the problem early can mean a big difference in the prognosis.
A large majority of Americans know someone who has breast cancer, and we can all play an important role in the lives of our loved ones.
October – Breast Cancer Awareness Month – “is a very difficult month for survivors and successful people. It can be really overwhelming,” Teplinsky said. Reaching out, offering a listening ear, or even just your presence can mean the world.
Gn Health
