Andrea De Armas, a 26-year-old physician assistant student, was diagnosed with breast cancer after seeking medical attention for a lump she discovered. Despite initially feeling that her concerns were dismissed by a technician during an ultrasound, subsequent scans and a biopsy confirmed the malignancy just before she was scheduled to begin her medical training program.
According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer diagnoses in women in their 20s are rare, affecting approximately one in 1,344 women. However, about 10% of all new breast cancer cases occur in women under the age of 45. Dr. Mary Gemignani, director of the Women's Early Onset Cancer Program at NYU Langone, noted that breast cancer incidence rates have been increasing by roughly 1% annually, with a slight rise in cases among women under 50.
De Armas underwent further testing which revealed a genetic mutation linked to increased breast cancer risk. Her treatment included a lumpectomy in June, followed by chemotherapy and a bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction. To maintain her studies, De Armas scheduled her treatments around her school breaks and attended chemotherapy sessions at 6:50 a.m. before her afternoon classes.
Dr. Cristina Lopez-Penalver, a surgical oncologist at Baptist Health’s Herbert Wertheim Cancer Institute, stated that the medical team coordinated a schedule that allowed De Armas to remain in school while receiving treatment. De Armas completed her physician assistant program in 2025 and is currently employed in the field. Now 30, she reports being cancer-free but continues hormone therapy, which has resulted in temporary menopause.
For the individuals affected, the concrete changes include navigating immediate decisions regarding fertility and managing the physical effects of treatment-induced menopause, which De Armas experienced. The diagnosis often requires a schedule of follow-up care and long-term medication, such as hormone therapy, which can persist for years after a patient is declared cancer-free. These health requirements can dictate daily routines, work availability, and long-term family planning for younger survivors.
The increase in incidence rates among women under 50, reported at 1% per year by the American Cancer Society, may influence how healthcare providers evaluate young patients who present with symptoms. As documented in this case, a genetic diagnosis can also lead to increased screening for biological family members. De Armas continues regular oncology follow-ups to monitor her health status, a standard protocol for survivors of early-onset cancer.