Breast Cancer Uncovered

Oncologist Dr. Sacha Howell talks to Amy and Naren about the impact of receiving a breast cancer diagnosis at a younger age. They explore the aggressive nature of the disease in young women, the limitations of current screening methods, and the benefits and risks of preventative surgeries versus medications. Louise Yafai’s mother died of breast cancer, prompting her to do a genetic test. She tells Amy and Naren how a preventative double mastectomy reduced her chances of a breast cancer diagnosis significantly, and about the peace of mind that this has brought her. In the episode, we also hear about fertility and cancer and how Amy responded well to fertility treatment ahead of her chemotherapy, allowing her to potentially start a family in the future.  01:16 Challenges of breast cancer in young women01:34 Introduction to Dr. Sacha Howell 02:08 Breast cancer screening and risk factors06:35 BCAN Ray study and initial findings08:17 Fertility and treatment considerations12:21 Louise Yafai’s preventative surgery experience14:43 The impact of the BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 genes24:57 The Angelina Jolie effect on screening26:14 Future of breast cancer screening28:24 Conclusion and resources

Clinical geneticist Professor Julian Barwell joins Amy and Naren to discuss the role of genetics in breast cancer. We learn about high-risk genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, the importance of knowing family history, and the misconceptions surrounding genetic inheritance.Amy and Naren also speak to Jagdish Baines, a two-time breast cancer survivor, about the emotional and physical impacts of the diagnosis on her family. Jag now advocates for self-checking and early detection and highlights the importance of asking questions to help gain understanding and a sense of control in managing breast cancer risk.02:01 Genetics and breast cancer risk03:54 Family history and genetic testing05:44 The importance of genetic awareness06:56 Men and breast cancer08:21 Personalised treatment and risk screening09:40 Amy's genetic testing experience10:04 The complexity of cancer genetics11:42 Educational outreach and awareness15:38 Introduction to Jag Baines26:23 Future of genetic testing29:22 Final thoughts and support resources

As an introduction to the series, Amy sits down with Naren to share her story following a breast cancer diagnosis at 32. She discusses her initial shock and how self-checking saved her life. We also hear the profound loss of control she felt post-diagnosis and the unexpected "hard slog" of recovery. Amy and Naren talk about navigating the different types of breast cancer and the terminology involved, and maintaining control through treatment choices. We also hear about Amy's driving mission for the series: "to do all I possibly can to raise awareness, break the stigma, and to learn as much as I possibly can about this awful disease".01:02 The importance of awareness01:54 Understanding breast cancer types05:12 The emotional journey06:47 Life after diagnosis09:43 The role of healthcare professionals12:25 Mission to raise awareness13:06 Conclusion and future goals