27 Nov, 2025
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27 Nov, 2025
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This article is medically reviewed by Dr. Sthiti Das, Consultant - Radiation Oncology, HCG Panda Cancer Hospital, Cuttack.
Many believe that women get diagnosed with breast cancer only in their middle age. This is, however, only partly true. In rare cases, breast cancer can be seen in teenagers as well.
While we do not know the exact cause of breast cancer among teenagers, it has been observed that certain factors, like genetic mutations, exposure to radiation, and family history, contribute to the increased risk of breast cancer among adolescents.
Breast cancer in teens, though rare, requires attention. Early signs of breast cancer in teens include lumps, swelling, nipple changes, skin abnormalities, and discomfort.
Prompt medical evaluation is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Awareness and early detection are critical for effectively managing this condition.
Some of the common symptoms of breast cancer in teens are:
Breast pain or tenderness is not a common symptom of breast cancer in teens.
However, it is important not to ignore persistent breast pain, especially when it is accompanied by other symptoms like lumps, skin changes, or nipple discharge.
Swelling of the breast can occur in breast cancer, but it is not generally the only symptom present.
In teens, breast swelling can often be related to hormonal changes during puberty rather than cancer.
It is important to see a doctor when there is unusual or persistent swelling, along with other symptoms like lumps, skin changes, or nipple abnormalities.
It may be a symptom of breast cancer in teens. However, it is more commonly associated with benign conditions or hormonal changes during puberty.
It is important to see a doctor in case of any persistent or unusual nipple discharge, especially when there is blood.
Metastasis, the spread of cancer from the breast to other parts of the body, is not usually an early symptom of breast cancer in teens.
Metastasis usually occurs in the more advanced stages of the disease.
The exact cause of breast cancer is unknown. However, certain factors that may increase the risk of breast cancer have been identified. The following are some of the possible causes of breast cancer in teens:
Genetic mutations, particularly those in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, can result in breast cancer in teens. It increases the risk of breast cancer at a younger age.
Additionally, other genetic syndromes, such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome or Cowden syndrome, can also increase the risk of breast cancer in teens.
A family history of breast or ovarian cancer can enhance the risk of breast cancer in teens.
Teens with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, especially close relatives like parents, siblings, or grandparents, should undergo genetic counseling and testing to assess their risk.
Breast cancer is rare in teens, comprising less than 1% of all breast cancer diagnoses. Although the disease predominantly affects older women, teens can also be diagnosed.
Reports suggest that young women in India have a higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to young women in Western countries.
Being overweight or obese is one of the biggest risk factors for many cancers, including breast cancer. Excess body weight leads to chronic inflammation and hormonal imbalance, which, in turn, increase the risk of breast cancer.
A lack of physical activity increases inflammation in the body and can cause a hormonal imbalance. A prolonged period of physical inactivity leads to obesity, which is one of the risk factors for breast cancer.
Eating processed foods, sugary drinks, fried foods, red meat, etc., is associated with increased risk of breast cancer development, as they trigger inflammation, oxidative damage to cells, insulin resistance, etc., which affect the normal functioning of cells.
Studies suggest that prolonged exposure to environmental toxins can lead to endocrine disruption, in which these chemicals mimic or interfere with the body's natural hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone.
Exposure to chemicals such as dioxins, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, bisphenol A, phthalates and parabens, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organic solvents, and certain heavy metals has been found to increase the risk of breast cancer.
Using birth control pills is linked to a temporarily increased risk of breast cancer. The risk may depend on the duration of use and the specific type of birth control pill.
Teens who receive radiation therapy as part of their treatment for conditions such as Hodgkin's lymphoma or other cancers, especially in the chest area, may have a higher risk of developing breast cancer as they age.
It is important to note that oncologists ensure that the benefits of radiation therapy often outweigh the risks before it is recommended as a treatment for different types of cancer.
Some studies suggest that early menstruation may be linked with a higher breast cancer risk later in life. This is because the initiation of menstruation at an early age exposes the breast tissue to estrogen for a longer duration.
Chronic exposure to estrogen is a risk factor for breast cancer.
Individuals belonging to certain ethnicities show a very high risk of developing breast cancer at a young age.
African (Black) women are prone to being diagnosed with breast cancer at a young age, especially with the aggressive ones. According to the latest studies, even women from Asian ethnicities are receiving a breast cancer diagnosis at a young age in recent years.
It can occur in women of any age but is more common in older women.
Although rare, it can also affect younger women, including those in their teens and 20s. Regardless of age, it is important to be vigilant about breast health, and regular screenings are important to detect any abnormalities early.
Although the presence of lumps is one of the most common signs of breast cancer, not all breast lumps indicate breast cancer. Various other non-cancerous conditions can cause a breast lump in teenagers and adults.
The following are some of the typical teen breast lumps:
A breast abscess refers to the localized collection of pus in the breast tissue. Usually, bacterial infections lead to breast abscesses. Although it can present as a lump in the breast, it is not a usual symptom of breast cancer in teens.
That said, teenagers with a lump in the breast should consult a doctor for a proper evaluation.
It is a fluid-filled sac that can form within the breast tissue. Breast cysts are more common in women over 40. However, they can occur in teens as well.
In most cases, breast cysts are benign, but they should be properly examined for a conclusive diagnosis.
Fibroadenoma is a common benign breast condition that can occur in teens and young women. It often presents as a firm, rubbery lump that moves easily within the breast tissue.
While fibroadenomas are usually harmless, they must be examined promptly for a definitive diagnosis.
Injuries to the chest region can result in bleeding and the formation of a hematoma in the breast. This may feel like a lump in the breast.
Usually, hematomas are benign, but they should be thoroughly examined to rule out the possibility of breast cancer.
Juvenile fibroadenomas are a type of benign breast tumor that can occur in adolescents and young women. They are typically small, firm, and well-defined lumps within the breast tissue.
In most cases, juvenile fibroadenomas are usually non-cancerous; it is important to consult a doctor for a detailed examination.
Teens should consider seeing a doctor if they experience breast cancer symptoms discussed above.
Any persistent breast-related symptoms should not be ignored. The presence of breast-related symptoms doesn't guarantee a breast cancer diagnosis; however, it is still important to get them tested to find out the underlying cause and receive necessary care.
Known as the leading breast cancer hospital in India, HCG offers comprehensive breast cancer management programs, which include everything from screening and diagnostics to survivorship assistance and supportive care.
Our reports suggest that the breast cancer survival rates for early-stage cancers are on par with the international benchmarks.
Our multidisciplinary approach, technological advancements, and individualized treatment strategies aid in delivering the best quality breast cancer care that not only improves the survival rates but also preserves the quality of life.
For any inquiries on breast cancer care and support, please reach out to HCG today.
Awareness of the earliest signs of breast cancer, like breast lumps, nipple changes, or skin abnormalities, is important for the early detection of breast cancer in teens.
Genetic factors, radiation therapy, and family history may enhance the breast cancer risk in teens.
Understanding these factors allows proactive measures, including monitoring and genetic counseling, to reduce risks effectively.
Dr. Sthiti Das
Consultant - Radiation Oncology
MBBS, MD (Radiation Oncology)
Dr. Sthiti Das is an accomplished radiation oncologist with extensive experience in treating different types of cancer. She is available for consultations at HCG Panda Cancer Hospital, a comprehensive cancer hospital in Cuttack, Odisha. She completed her fellowship training in high-precision radiotherapy at Fortis Hospital (Gurgaon). She has 15 years of experience in administering high-precision radiotherapy techniques, such as 3D-CRT, IMRT, IGRT, VMAT, SRS, SBRT, and HDR Brachytherapy, to manage a broad spectrum of cancers.
Appointment Link: Book an Appointment with Dr. Sthiti Das.
