It’s a well-known fact that breast cancer is the most common type of cancer women suffer from. However, Secretory Carcinoma of Breast is a very rare type that can affect young girls as well. Visually it reminds a honey-combed structure, which characterizes by milk-like secretions seen on the cells.

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The causes of this particular disease are unknown. Some studies show it may be caused by hormonal imbalance, others suggest it appears due to a gene mutation. A lump in the breast, mostly near areola, is the most common sigh of Secretory Carcinoma of Breast. This cancer can affect men and children. Recently, a little girl was diagnosed with it and she has become the youngest person to have such a disease.

8-year-old with breast cancer

The 8-year-old girl from Utah is getting ready for a mastectomy after she found out she has a rare type of cancer, Secretory Carcinoma of Breast.

One day Chrissy Turner came to her mom, Annette Turner, with a terrified look on her face and said:

According to Turner, the girl said that the lump was there for a while. Annette, who has battled with cervical cancer herself, was in shock.

Her husband is currently fighting Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, having been diagnosed when Chrissy was a baby. The fear-stricken mother comments;

Luckily, despite being rare, this type of cancer is treatable and the doctors are confident it can be removed. Chrissy, who is now 10, is on remission and says it’s crucial to be aware of your body no matter how old you are.

Breast self-exam tips

Regularly examining your breast is the best way to find breast cancer on its early stages when there are higher chances for it to be treated successfully. These are 3 tips that can help you:

• examine your breasts standing in front of the mirror, you should look for lumps, dimpling or bulging of the skin, inverted nipple or nipple that has changed position, any redness, swelling or rush;
• make your examinations as regular as possible (preferably once a month), the more you get accustomed with your breasts, the easier for you will be to see if something has changed;
• don’t panic if you find a lump as most women have lumpy areas but consult with your doctor if something stands out and doesn’t go away for several weeks.

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Remember, not all types of cancer can be found by self-examination but it’s a crucial step you should take for your own health.