Why Younger Women Are Getting Breast Cancer at Record Rates (And How to Reduce Your Risk)

In this episode, Dr. Mark Hyman speaks with OB/GYN Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi about the rising incidence of breast cancer in younger women. They discuss the importance of knowing your breast density for effective screening, the limitations of family history in assessing risk, and the role of expanded genetic testing including polygenic risk scores. Dr. Aliabadi shares her own experience of being dismissed when she had breast cancer symptoms, highlighting how women's health concerns are often minimized. The conversation also covers how metabolic health, insulin resistance, and chronic inflammation contribute to cancer risk, and emphasizes that lifestyle changes can be powerful preventive tools. Finally, they address misconceptions around hormone replacement therapy and the need for personalized, informed decisions.