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INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS OF

CancerGenetics

• Understanding Breast Cancer's Impact on Young Women's Fertility

• Shirin Dehghan,^1,* Niyayesh Eivani gilani,² Fatemeh Seif,³ Fateme Jafari,⁴
  2. Isfahan University
  3. Iran University
  4. Azad Islamic University
  
  
  
• Introduction: Breast cancer stands as the most prevalent cancer diagnosed among women globally, signifying an important health challenge. This disease is known for the uncontrolled proliferation of the cells in breast tissues and manifests in various forms, with triple-negative breast cancer being particularly prominent among younger women. Understanding that factors such as genetics, age, and hormonal influences contribute to breast cancer risk is essential. Early detection remains vital for improving treatment efficacy, hinging on regular screenings such as mammograms and clinical breast examinations. patients diagnosed with breast cancer often undergo a combination of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and hormone therapy. Moreover, many women worry about the impact breast cancer may have on fertility. For those who survive, there is encouragement to consider the possibility of pregnancy following treatment.
• Methods: Breast cancer diagnosed during pregnancy presents unique challenges, being the most common cancer in this demographic. Treatment approaches must cater to the specific needs of pregnant patients while following standard guidelines for non-pregnant individuals. Safe imaging methods like breast ultrasound and mammography are preferred for diagnosis, although alternatives such as CT and PET/CT may be used if they significantly benefit the mother's health. Fertility preservation techniques, including embryo and oocyte cryopreservation, are recommended before cancer therapy to mitigate risks to reproductive health. Despite high survivorship rates, breast cancer survivors have lower pregnancy rates (estimated between 3.6% and 16%) compared to peers without a history of breast cancer, largely due to treatment-related factors such as hormonal imbalances. This highlights the need for supportive interventions to enhance reproductive opportunities for survivors, along with ongoing research into the relationship between breast cancer, treatment, and reproductive health to empower the on their journey toward motherhood.
• Results: The landscape of breast cancer is further complicated by the increasing trend of women postponing childbirth until later in life, resulting in more cases of breast cancer being diagnosed in younger women. Epidemiological data reveals that breast cancer affects over 11000 women under the age of 40 annually in the United States. This prevalence is echoed in countries like Iran, where the incidence is notably high. Although many breast cancer survivors are keen to conceive after completing their treatment, medical advice often recommends delaying this attempt for at least two years due to the elevated risk of recurrence in the immediate years following diagnosis. Additionally, the side effects of breast cancer treatments can adversely affect reproductive health, causing complications such as ovarian function impairment and increasing the risk of congenital anomalies or spontaneous abortion.
• Conclusion: Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women worldwide and presents considerable public health issues due to genetic, hormonal, and environmental influences. Aggressive variants, like triple-negative breast cancer, primarily impact on younger women, underscoring the importance of early detection and effective therapeutic strategies. The potential effects of cancer treatment on fertility must be addressed, considering that many survivors aim to conceive. Improving fertility preservation methods and developing support systems for these women is crucial. Going forward, research should concentrate on creating tailored treatment plans for younger patients and those diagnosed during pregnancy. Additionally, there is a pressing need for advancements in fertility preservation techniques to improve the psychological health and overall quality of life for breast cancer survivors. By focusing on these areas, healthcare providers can ultimately leading to enhanced outcomes and a greater sense of empowerment for those wishing to start families after their treatment journey.
• Keywords: Breast cancer- Fertility preservation- Early detection