Conference for Young Women Affected by Breast Cancer: 10th anniversary

2010 marks the 10th anniversary of the only international conference dedicated to the critical issues of young breast cancer survivors and those who care about them. Nearly 1,000 young breast cancer survivors, caregivers and medical professionals from around the world are expected to attend the 10th Annual Conference for Young Women Affected by Breast Cancer, to be held Friday, Feb. 26-Sunday, Feb. 28 at the Sheraton Atlanta Hotel in Atlanta, Ga.

One in eight women diagnosed with breast cancer is younger than 45 when diagnosed, yet their emotional and medical concerns are different than those of women over age 45, as is the impact of their diagnosis on family, friends, partners, colleagues and children. Fertility concerns and the possibility of treatment-induced early menopause are just two examples of the issues young women face.

A joint effort by Living Beyond Breast Cancer and Young Survival Coalition, this three-day event is a must for premenopausal women diagnosed with breast cancer. Whether recently diagnosed, in treatment or having completed treatment; a long-term survivor, caregiver or living with metastatic breast cancer; attendees will get the latest educational information on breast cancer from some of the nation's top experts and opportunities to expand their circle of support.

Participants may choose from more than 25 workshops on topics including risk reduction and management of lymphedema, proper nutrition and exercise, side-effect management, medical updates for early-stage and metastatic breast cancer, fertility, sexuality, body image, work place rights, advocacy and caregiving. During breaks and receptions, attendees will have the opportunity to network with other young women, caregivers and healthcare providers and browse the exhibit tables.

Featured speakers include:
•Julie R. Gralow, MD, professor of medical oncology and director of breast medical oncology, University of Washington School of Medicine and Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. Dr. Gralow will detail medical advances regarding young women affected by breast cancer.
•Julia H. Rowland, PhD, director of the National Cancer Institute's Office of Cancer Survivorship. A long-time clinician, researcher and teacher in the psychosocial aspects of cancer, Dr. Rowland will discuss survivorship issues for young breast cancer survivors.
•Kim Carlos, JD, motivational speaker and co-author of Nordie's at Noon—the Personal Stories of Four Women "Too Young" for Breast Cancer. Ms. Carlos will discuss embracing life through and after cancer.

Though breast cancer is less common in younger women, there are more than 250,000 women living in the U.S. who were diagnosed under the age of 40 and more than 11,000 more will be diagnosed in the next year. According to the National Cancer Institute, breast cancer is the leading cause of death in young women ages 15-54.

Young women diagnosed with breast cancer are uniquely impacted by issues often not faced by older women. Breast cancer is often detected at later stages, increasing diagnoses of more advanced cancers. The impact of cancer treatment on fertility, body image, financial challenges, and slightly higher mortality rates are significant concerns for this population. Because most psychosocial and medical resources are designed for women over 50, young women diagnosed with breast cancer often feel isolated and alone.

"Over its ten-year history, the conference is recognized as the only gathering of its kind bringing together young women, caregivers and medical experts from around the world," said Jean Sachs, MSS, MLSP, chief executive officer of Living Beyond Breast Cancer. "This year marks the 10th anniversary of successfully connecting young women diagnosed with breast cancer so they know they are not alone."

"There have been many advances in the treatment of young women diagnosed with breast cancer in the last ten years, but the ultimate battle remains to be won - eradicating breast cancer," said Marcia Stein, chief executive officer of Young Survival Coalition. "We remain focused on providing resources, connections and outreach to help women feel empowered, supported and hopeful."

SOURCE Living Beyond Breast Cancer