Extremely scared about having a benign breast tumor

Jessicahurst97

About a month ago the doctors found a lump in my right breast, it honestly didn't scare me at the time because it wasn't the first time but they called me at cheerleading practice and told me I have a benign tumor and it wasn't normal. It was 1.09cm and that may not be that big to some but for me is it. I there is a big chance for me to get breast cancer because my moms dad had it my moms sisters both had it and it runs far back into the family so they are telling me I'll probably have breast cancer before I graduate high school and if I don't I'll have to have surgery to get it removed and me and my family is extremely worried about it... What do I do??

Moderators

Hi Jessica-

First of all, we're so glad you found our community. We know how scary this all can be. Your post is a little confusing; who is telling you you'll probably have breast cancer? Your doctor? What did your doctors say about the lump and how they want to proceed?

At your age, breast cancer would be very rare, but we understand your concerns, especially considering your family history. Have you or your parents spoken to your doctor about your concerns?

The Mods

Jessicahurst97

the doctors told me that and they said they wanted to keep a close eye on it and I go back in 2 and a half months for another ultra sounds, they told me in to young for a mammogram.

wrenn

From your original post I got that your family members told you that you would have breast cancer before finishing high school. That is a cruel thing to say especially since it is very unlikely to happen. I hope you will focus on what your doctors are telling you. Take care of yourself and try not to worry. xo

Moderators

Jessica-

Yes, like Wren said, from your post it sounded like your family members had said that to you. If your doctors are aware of the lump and are tracking it, and you have a plan in place to keep monitoring it, you should focus on that and try not to worry. Take care of yourself, we're keeping you in our thoughts!

The Mods

Jessicahurst97

thank you guys so much

DiveCat

I am sorry your family is causing you stress with that kind of fear-mongering misinformation!

A benign tumour is just that...benign! Most benign tumours - unless they are causing pain or great discomfort - are left alone and just monitored. Because really it does not make sense to have it removed with the risks of scarring, making future imaging more difficult, etc.

Benign lumps and bumps are quite common and often hormone-related - as a teenager you have plenty of those! The risk of getting breast cancer as a teenager is extremely tiny, like a small fraction of a percentage point.

If you are concerned about your genetic/family history, you may want to consider a referral to a genetic counsellor when you are a little older (they won't do testing, if recommended, until you are 18). Since the cancer is on your moms side though she could also get a referral for herself which could help inform you. Since her dad and her sisters have all had BC, your mom would be a good candidate for genetic counselling to discuss risk and whether testing is appropriate