The Alarming Rise of Breast Cancer Among Young Women: A Survivor's Story and a Call to Action

As breast cancer continues to impact young women at an alarming rate, Vanessa Berrueta, a former dentist and swimsuit model, is stepping into the spotlight to raise awareness. After undergoing a mastectomy in August, Berrueta, now only with one breast, is on a mission to encourage open conversations about breast health within her Latino community.

“People in my Latino community, we don’t talk about breasts,” she passionately stated, emphasizing the need for dialogue. “We see breasts, but we don’t speak enough about them. Let's talk about breast health! Are your breasts healthy? Touch your breasts! And if you have a partner, touch their breasts too!”

Berrueta, with her bright personality and infectious laughter, recently invited fellow breast cancer survivor Ivet Garcia to co-host a podcast episode titled "Tetas," where they explore and destigmatize discussions surrounding breast health.

Creating a Safe Haven

Berrueta actively participates at Gilda’s Club Minnesota in Minnetonka, a sanctuary for cancer survivors and their families to gather for support. The club offers a comforting atmosphere, often filled with the aroma of delicious meals prepared by volunteers. During a recent breakfast gathering, Berrueta connected with other survivors, sharing stories of resilience and recovery.

Katherine Todd, the executive director of Gilda’s Club and a widow of colon cancer, acknowledges Berrueta's efforts: “She’s forging a new platform for individuals to find support during their personal journeys.”

Shaunequa James, Gilda's Club program director, notes an unfortunate trend: an increase in young breast cancer patients seeking support. Young women often struggle with the emotional scars left by treatment, including infertility concerns and changing body images.

James shared her personal stakes, having lost both her mother and grandmother to breast cancer at a young age. “Justifying the need for insurance coverage for early screenings is a battle," she lamented. “The data is clear—young women are being diagnosed at earlier ages, but it feels like swimming upstream to get that recognized.”

An Unsettling Trend

Researchers are raising concerns about why more young women are facing this diagnosis. Factors include earlier menstruation ages, genetic predispositions, and lifestyle choices related to diet and exercise. “The challenge is determining actionable steps for individuals at heightened risk," explained oncologist Yee. He cautioned that while self-examinations are essential, they should complement, not replace, professional evaluations.

The absence of a family history of breast cancer complicates matters further. Berrueta, who immigrated to the United States over a decade ago, had no prior indications of breast cancer until she discovered a lump in her underarm. Despite being told it was likely scar tissue, her instincts led her to pursue a biopsy, which ultimately confirmed her worst fears—she had cancer.

“I was terrified. I equated the news with death,” she recalled. A whirlwind of emotions followed as she reached out to family members across countries to share her diagnosis. The financial strain of her medical treatment led her to launch a GoFundMe page to help cover costs.

After her mastectomy, Berrueta faces the reality of redefining her identity and purpose. “Modeling centered around my body, but I’m learning to appreciate my new self,” she said, showcasing resilience and self-love in her transformed journey.

Beyond Personal Struggles

Tragedy struck again when she lost her father, a cattle rancher in Venezuela, just days before launching her podcast. Yet, instead of succumbing to grief, Berrueta channels her pain into a passionate drive to educate others about breast health.

Berrueta's podcast, a labor of love achieved through resourceful means, aims to create a “pink wave” of community support and awareness. Her first guest featured Randy Klauk, a man living with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer, showcasing the broad impact of the disease regardless of gender.

As breast cancer rates climb among young women, Berrueta and advocates like her are pioneering dialogues that can shatter taboos and pave the way for a healthier future. Together, they emphasize that through information and support, no woman has to face cancer alone—it's time to talk about breast health openly and honestly.