Blog Post
Hi Annie, Deanne and Carolyn
It's always a pleasure logging onto the Online Network and seeing women supporting one another the way you do. I also find it distressing at times to see how many new women sign up and post a blog entry each day. At the same time, I am always pleased to see that so many women respond quickly to support them.
It may interest you to know that the numbers of younger women with breast cancer has actually stayed very stable since 1982. Other age groups have seen an increase in numbers, most likely due to the introduction of BreastScreen in the 90s. But breast cancer remains uncommon in young women with no increase for this age group over time.. About 5% of women diagnosed with breast cancer are under 40.
It's hard to know for certain why it can seem like the amount of younger women diagnosed is on the increase. Perhaps younger women are more likely to use online methods of communication and support because they are less likely to meet others in their age group in 'real life'. The average age of a BCNA Online Network member is actually quite a bit younger than the average age of women diagnosed with breast cancer. So perhaps we are more likely to see stories from younger women online?
Nic