Young Woman's Journey Highlights Critical Need for Early Breast Cancer Detection

Marissa Coreno, at just 27 years old, received a life-altering diagnosis of Stage II breast cancer after initially dismissing a lump under her armpit. Her story, reported by CBS News, underscores the critical importance of recognizing subtle warning signs, even in young adults who may not consider themselves at risk.

charlotteradiology.com reported, Coreno, who had no family history of cancer, initially wasn't concerned about the lump she discovered in June 2021. However, her colleagues urged her to seek medical attention, leading to an ultrasound that revealed "questionable characteristics".

Further diagnostic tests, including a mammogram and biopsy, confirmed the devastating news. Coreno was diagnosed with Stage II breast cancer that had already spread to her lymph nodes, turning her world "upside down," she told CBS News.

cbsnews.com noted, Her arduous treatment regimen began with four months of "exhausting" chemotherapy to halt the cancer's progression. This was followed by a double mastectomy, reconstruction surgery, and 25 days of radiation therapy, as detailed by CBS News.

Since March 2022, Coreno has been undergoing hormone therapy, which she will continue until 2032, to prevent the cancer's recurrence. She is currently cancer-free, a testament to her resilience and comprehensive medical care.

breastcancer.org reported, Coreno's experience serves as a powerful reminder that breast cancer can affect individuals at any age. Her journey highlights the necessity for young women to be vigilant about their health and to advocate for thorough medical evaluation of any unusual symptoms.

The emotional and physical toll of her treatment was immense, with Coreno describing the chemotherapy as "exhausting" and recalling losing her hair and energy. Despite these challenges, she has embraced her role as a breast cancer survivor, thriving and living life to the fullest.

• Breast cancer, while more common in older women, is increasingly affecting younger individuals, with approximately 10% of diagnoses occurring in women under 45. In 2025, an estimated 16% of women diagnosed with breast cancer will be under 50 years old. These cancers in young women often present at later stages and can be more aggressive, leading to worse outcomes compared to older patients.
• Early detection in young women faces significant hurdles because routine mammogram screenings typically begin at age 40 or 50, depending on guidelines. Younger women also tend to have denser breast tissue, which can obscure abnormalities on mammograms, making early detection more challenging. This lack of standard screening for younger age groups means many cancers are found incidentally or by self-examination.
• Symptoms of breast cancer in young women are similar to those in older women and include a lump in the breast or armpit, changes in breast size or shape, skin changes like dimpling or redness, nipple discharge, or nipple changes. Nearly 80% of young adults diagnosed with breast cancer discover the abnormality themselves, emphasizing the importance of breast self-awareness and prompt medical consultation for any changes.
• Risk factors for breast cancer in young women can include genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are more prevalent in early-onset cases. However, many young women diagnosed with breast cancer, like Marissa Coreno, have no family history or apparent genetic predisposition, highlighting that the disease can strike without traditional risk factors.
• Young women diagnosed with breast cancer face unique psychosocial and medical challenges beyond the disease itself. These include concerns about fertility preservation before treatment, body image issues following surgery, sexual dysfunction, and the potential for premature menopause due to chemotherapy. These factors can significantly impact their quality of life and require specialized support.
• It is crucial for young women to advocate for themselves if they notice breast changes. If initial concerns are not taken seriously, it may be necessary to insist on further testing to rule out breast cancer, as delays in diagnosis can lead to more advanced disease and poorer outcomes. Healthcare providers should also be attuned to these unique challenges and concerns.
• Survivorship for young women with breast cancer often involves long-term management, such as hormone therapy for many years, as seen in Coreno's case. Regular scans and ongoing medical supervision are essential to monitor for recurrence. Strong support systems, including family and friends, play a vital role in navigating the physical and emotional recovery process.
• Further research is needed to better understand breast cancer in young women, as they are often underrepresented in clinical trials. Developing age-specific screening methods, improving early detection strategies, and addressing the unique treatment and survivorship challenges are critical to improving outcomes for this population.