Younger women generally do not consider themselves to be at risk for breast cancer.

39-year-old Laura Cuty-Ruiz was at home coloring one afternoon with her 5-year-old daughter when she received the phone call that changed her life. "I wasn't anticipating having cancer at all and I was surprised since I was just going for routine visits to find out that I had something else going on but because I went for a routine visit, we found it very early on."

Radiologist Mary Kay Peterson says that early detection is always important with any cancer --- but especially so when breast cancer develops in young women. "The types of cancers that younger women get, typically, will be cancers that are more aggressive and will need to be treated more aggressively right from the get go."

This experience has taught Laura and her friends some very important lessons. "I think it's important to conduct self breast exams on a routine basis. It was a domino effect of my friends all getting mammograms immediately."

If you feel that your physician isn't taking your concerns seriously, then you should definitely seek a 2nd opinion. Many women complain saying that their physicians told them they were too young to have breast cancer only to be diagnosed with it later.

Laura also says "Had I waited for another couple of years, I would be in a very different situation most likely."

With breast cancer there may be no obvious symptoms. Starting at age 20, do monthly self breast exams and get a clinical breast exams at least every 3 years by your doctor. Women should also be getting annual mammogram screenings starting at age 40 ---sooner if other risk factors exist.

Only 5% of all breast cancer cases occur in women under the age of 40. No matter what your age, a local breast cancer support group can help anyone affected by breast cancer. You can call 239-939-8389.