Breast Cancer?

566>I was curious if breast cancer is a thing that can be passed down and who from.


My great-grandma on my mom's side was diagnosed with it a few years ago.


My mom also had a scare just after I was born so they took out the section of skin that was suspicious and she never actually got her results.


I'm going in for a doctor's appt (a "girly" appt) and I'm not sure if I should ask or not.


My stepmom will most likely be coming with me and if I ask in front of her, she'll get offended, yada yada yada...(she's a nurse)


I haven't really noticed anything odd about my breasts, but I'm not a professional.


Should I be concerned?
Reply:It never hurts to ask about a health concern. Your mom's situation sounds more like a skin cancer, if indeed it was a cancer at all (breast cancer is deeper into the tissue). There are genes that can be passed down that make you more likely to have breast cancer, but that doesn't mean that you have it or ever WILL have it.





It sounds like you are a little intimidated to talk in front of your stepmother; I would make sure to call the doctor's office and request that he/she find a way to talk with you PRIVATELY while you are in the office. I can't see why your step-mom's being a nurse would mean that she would be offended; she's certainly not qualified or capable of telling you whether you might have breast cancer, or even an increase risk for it.





You sound very young, so the chances of your having breast cancer at this age are extremely slim; however, that doesn't mean that you can never have it, and it's always good to be vigilant. Ask your doctor about mammograms, when you should start getting them, and how frequently you should get them. Your health is important; don't let your stepmother's feelings and/or behavior get in the way of it!
Reply:Yes to all of the above, sorry to inform you.
Reply:I don't have an answer but I had the same question and I just want to say thanks for puting that question out there.. I am only 15 and my mom was diagnosed with breast and brain cancer and she past 4 years ago after having it for about 6 years of my life... maybe more. Thanks again..


-Sadye