CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The American Cancer Society says the median age for breast cancer diagnoses is 62, but recent research shows more young women are receiving shocking results.
"They're coming in at an earlier age and so we're finding it earlier," said Matthew Guy with Piedmont Medical Center.
Some younger women may hold off on sharing concerns about their breast health because of their age, but health officials say that women don't necessarily have to be older than 40 to start the conversation.
Data show that between 2010 and 2019, diagnoses among people ages 30 to 39 increased by more than 19%, with people ages 20 to 29 increasing by more than 5%.
"I think that women are just becoming more aware of it because of family members or friends. They're talking to them about it," said Guy.
Guy said there are several possible reasons for this trend of increasing breast cancer diagnoses, like an increase in genetic testing.
RELATED: 'Feel at home' | Cultural ambassadors providing bridge for communication gap in health care
"Genetic testing is becoming more popular, so women are getting it more often. I think we'll continue to see a trend in that direction," said Guy.
The American Cancer Society says other lifestyle-related risk factors, like drinking and obesity, could also be leading factors in this increase.
While many women with breast cancer have no symptoms, research shows the rate of late-stage breast cancer for women under the age of 40 is also climbing.
Guy says he hopes this data will encourage even more women to be proactive.
"I would like to recommend that all women come in early to get breast cancer screening, the best way to to cure breast cancer is to find it early and get it taken care of before it spreads to other parts of the body," said Guy.
Health officials are encouraging anyone with health concerns, regardless of age, to contact their doctor.
Contact Tradesha Woodard at twoodard1@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.