Article: Breast Cancer Screening for Trans People

[awkward-yet-sweet]

@KathyLauren We're definitely in uncharted waters.  We'll probably know a lot more in 20-30 years.  In my case, I'm intersex and I never grew breasts at puberty.  I'm the same in my 30's as I was in childhood, just with the addition of mild localized testosterone as I started into my boy life.  I'm just assuming that I'll have to get checked starting at 40 like everybody else.  I plan on encouraging my MtF trans friends to do likewise. 

[Audrey]

My HRT prescriber was very quick to educate me about doing breast self-exams from the very beginning, and to monitor for changes and lumps beyond the expected growth and tenderness from taking estradiol. She also makes sure I have regular mammograms, and I have had one so far since starting HRT (none before). Now that I think my breasts are settling down after three years, I feel like I will notice something quickly.

 

Love,

~Audrey.

[Birdie]

I had breast cancer at an 1989, I was 25 years old with about C sized breasts (I was still in boy-mode back then). 

 

Breast cancer can effect anyone at at any age regardless of gender. It's just 'risk factors' change with gender and age. 

I'm pretty sure the gender difference is a result in the amount of breast tissue.  Genetics has a lot to do with it as well, and I have the gene mutation that makes me a candidate. 

 

Mine was cured with a lumpectomy and chemo. Only the nasty scar remains. 

I get mammograms every year since then. 

 

If you have breasts over 40, you need a yearly mammogram. If you feel a lump at any age or breast size, you need to see a doctor immediately.