Cancer Patient’s Plea: “Don’t Assume You’re Too Young”
A woman battling advanced cancer is urging those under 50 to prioritize their health. After a three-year delay in diagnosis due to her age, Lea Hughes, now 38, wants to prevent others from experiencing similar setbacks. Her story highlights the critical need for early detection.
Delayed Diagnosis and Devastating News
At 29, Lea Hughes found a lump on her breast, but doctors dismissed her concerns. They attributed her symptoms to her youth and a lack of family history of cancer. After three years, a dimple appeared, leading to immediate testing. The diagnosis: stage four, incurable cancer.
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“I can’t believe everything I’ve been through. You don’t realize until you sit back and reflect.”
—Lea Hughes
Early-onset cancers are on the rise globally. According to a 2023 study in the journal *JAMA Network Open*, the incidence of early-onset cancers increased between 2000 and 2019 (Source: JAMA).
Treatment and Ongoing Challenges
Hughes underwent various treatments, including a mastectomy and chemotherapy, which initially stabilized her condition. However, the cancer spread to her brain and lungs, necessitating further aggressive therapies. She is currently undergoing her sixth chemotherapy course.
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A Call for Vigilance
Hughes is now fundraising for a targeted drug, Enhertu, which is not widely available on the NHS. Her experience underscores the importance of early detection and persistent self-advocacy when facing health concerns, regardless of age.
