Breast cancer prevention starts early: Screening tests for women in their 20s, 30s and beyond

Regular breast self-examinations are one of the easiest and most efficient strategies to prevent breast cancer. (Image: Canva)

Although it is more common in older women, breast cancer is one of the most common malignancies to strike women worldwide, and early detection and prevention are key. Although many women in their 20s and 30s don't think they're at risk, early detection and prevention can greatly lower the chance of a late-stage diagnosis. Long-term results can be enhanced by forming healthy habits and getting the right screenings.

Understanding breast cancer risks in young women

• While women under 40 are less likely to develop breast cancer, it's important to remember that risk factors can be present at any age. Breast cancer risk factors include a person's family history, genetic abnormalities (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2), early menstruation, and certain lifestyle choices, including drinking alcohol, smoking, and not exercising, says Dr Aditi Chaturvedi, Senior Consultant, Cancer Care/Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Breast Cancer, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket.
• Women in their 20s and 30s must be aware of these risk factors and take preventative measures proactively. It is important to know your family history. Women who have a history of breast or ovarian cancer should speak with their healthcare providers to consider earlier screening options and receive tailored risk assessments.

• Regular breast self-examinations are one of the easiest and most efficient strategies to prevent breast cancer from developing, says Dr Chaturvedi. Ladies should become familiar with the typical feel and appearance of their breasts, looking for any abnormalities such as lumps, swelling, or strange skin textures. While self-exams don’t replace professional screenings, they help women notice problems early and seek medical care swiftly.

Screening tests for women in their 20s and 30s

While routine mammograms are not recommended for women under 40 unless they are at high risk, Dr Chaturvedi says there are other essential screening measures young women can take.

• Clinical breast exams: Healthcare professionals can do clinical breast exams, which entail a comprehensive physical examination of the breasts and underarm regions to find lumps or anomalies, during routine check-ups.
• Genetic testing: Genetic testing can uncover abnormalities like BRCA1 and BRCA2, which dramatically increase the risk of breast cancer for those with a strong family history of the disease. Individuals who test positive can gain from screening more frequently and earlier.
• Breast ultrasound: Women with dense breast tissue, frequently younger women, may benefit from breast ultrasounds to detect problems not seen in mammograms.

• Breast cancer can be prevented in large part by leading a healthy lifestyle in addition to getting screenings. Breast cancer risk can be decreased by eating a healthy, well-balanced diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, getting regular exercise, and abstaining from tobacco and excessive alcohol use.
• Even in their 20s and 30s, women can start preventing breast cancer at an early age. Through knowledge of the risk factors, self-awareness exercises, and appropriate screenings, women can dramatically lower their lifetime risk of breast cancer. Prevention is always better than cure, and it's never too early to begin.