Woman, 32, diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer told she didn’t need a screening until she was 40

High school teacher Kaleena Slaviero, 32, was told by doctors that a Stage 3 breast cancer lump on her breast was only a ‘blocked milk duct’. She had asked for a mammogram but was told she was too young.

KALEENA Slaviero was told by doctors that a Stage 3 breast cancer lump on her breast was only a “blocked milk duct”.

The 32-year-old O’Loughlin Catholic College high school teacher also later tested positive to the hereditary genetic mutation BRCA1.

Ms Slaviero said a year before she was diagnosed with breast cancer, she asked for a breast screening but was told she did not need one until she was 40.

“Women shouldn’t have to find something first to then get a screening, they should be able to get a screening for peace of mind,” Ms Slaviero said.

Health Minister Natasha Fyles said breast cancer was a terrible life-threatening disease and recognised it not only affected women over the age of 40. “With this in mind we know screening mammograms are not recommended for women under the age of 40 as they are not effective,” Ms Fyles said.

“As younger women under 40 years have denser breast tissue, it is harder to detect breast cancer on screening and determine if any changes detected are due to normal tissue or cancer tissues.”

Ms Slaviero said it should be easier for women under 40 to be able to have a breast screen. “Self-examining is waiting until the lump has grown, you shouldn’t have to wait until it’s big enough for you to feel,” she said.

Kaleena Slaviero and her son Raiden Slaviero. Ms Slaviero was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer in April this year at just 32-years-old. Picture: Untamed by allison.

Ms Fyles said women with higher risk of breast cancer due to family history should chat with their doctor.

“Women with a strong family history of breast cancer, should talk to their doctor about genetic testing and diagnostic mammograms,” she said.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the annual campaign raises awareness about the impact of breast cancer.

Despite the ongoing chemotherapy, Ms Kaleena’s strong and optimistic outlook on the situation still remains.

“I keep a positive mindset and tell myself I’m going to beat this, I’m going to win,” she said.

“During this journey I’ve realised that every setback gives me the opportunity to fight back and come back even stronger than before.

“Cancer really did pick the wrong person, I’m not scared, I’m determined to fight and to win.”

Ms Slaviero’s best mate Chelsea Walter started a GoFundMe page.

To donate, visit gofundme.com and search Help Kaleena in her fight against Breast Cancer.