Dialogues

Vicki Durston: A steady increase in early-onset breast cancer among young women is drawing global attention

Vicki Durston/standard.net.au

Jan 19, 2025, 08:24

Vicki Durston: A steady increase in early-onset breast cancer among young women is drawing global attention

Vicki Durston shared on LinkedIn:

“‘A steady increase in early-onset breast cancer among young women is drawing global attention,’ as highlighted by the New York Times and noted by Katie Couric.

Data Highlights:

– The American Society of Clinical Oncology has released a report highlighting this trend in the U.S.
– Cancer Council Victoria’s 2024 Annual Report, reporting 2023 data, indicates a concerning and ongoing steady increase in Australia.
– The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare has also highlighted a significant upward trend in early-onset breast cancer among young women, noting that breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women in Australia.

What We Know:
– Young women diagnosed with breast cancer often face more aggressive forms, which can be harder to treat, making early detection and awareness even more critical.

Why This Matters:

– Too Often Dismissed: Young women frequently report that their concerns about cancer risk are dismissed by primary care providers as being too young.

– Raising Awareness: It’s crucial to draw attention to this data and the steady increase in early-onset cases. We must start conversations about awareness, early detection, and risk management.

– Informed Policy: With breast cancer being the most common cancer among women in Australia, it’s vital to inform health policy that supports early detection and empowers young women with the knowledge and resources they need.

Let’s ensure young women have the awareness and support necessary for early cancer detection.
Join us in this important conversation globally.”

Vicki Durston is the Director of Policy, Advocacy and Support Services at the Breast Cancer Network Australia. Additionally, she is also the President of the General Assembly and a Board Member at ABC Global Alliance. She earned her Master of Education degree in Leadership, Policy and Change from Monash University.