Breast Cancer/Breast Changes

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Expert: - 1/17/2012


Question
I am 20 years old (turning 21 in just a month!) and my breasts have increased about 4 cup sizes (a 32A/B to 34DD/DDD) in the past year and seem to just keep growing. I honestly can not keep up the growth--every time I get fitted or measure myself they are bigger. Plus, I have noticed several changes in the appearance of my breasts--from simple changes in shape to changes in the color, texture, etc. of the nipples.
Also, both of my grandmothers had/have breast cancer, so it is something that I am very aware of and nervous about.
Do you think that I should go get a professional screening or mammogram? I have had several peers and women in my life make remarks about me going but I'm hesitant because I don't want to go for no reason.
Thoughts?

Answer
I doubt very much that the changes you describe have anything at all to do with breast cancer which anyway at your age is VERY uncommon. Even so you should let a doctor check your breasts since they are worrying you! Good luck!


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Claes-Gustaf Nordquist, M.D.

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I`m a doctor of medicine and a specialist in radiation therapy and medical oncology. I have long experience in diagnostics and treatment of breast tumours.

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I'm a Doctor of Medicine and specialist in Medical Oncology and Radiation Therapy educated & trained in Sweden. Now retired. Background in Radiation Therapy, Medical Oncology, Radiation Protection, Nuclear Medicine, Diagnostic Radiology, Gynecological Oncology, Clinical Pathology, Clinical Cytology,Hematology and Internal Medicine. M.D. from the faculty of medicine, Royal Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden. Have also been an exchange student at the Hebrew University, Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem Israel. Former medical consultant, Swedish National Board of Radiation Protection. Former Police Surgeon and Medical Examiner, Stockholm Police Department. Former Chief Medical Officer, The Royal Guards, The Royal Horse Guards and the Royal Household Brigade, Royal Swedish Army Medical Corps.You can also reach me on: http://www.lifestylerescue.com/expert/health-fitness-advice/dr-claes-gustaf/128 I have no restrictions on the number of questions there.

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