Back Pain Leads to Stage 4 Breast Cancer Diagnosis in 35-Year-Old Survivor

A 35-year-old woman named Bisma Lalji believed her back pain was just a normal result of stress or tiredness. But soon, doctors discovered something much more serious. The pain that she first ignored was actually her first sign of Stage 4 breast cancer that had already spread to her spine. Her story shows why it is important to listen to small changes in the body and not ignore pain that continues for many days.

Bisma was working from home when the pain began. She was on a video call for work when the pain suddenly became very strong. At first, she tried to stay calm, thinking it was only muscle strain. But within minutes, the pain increased so much that she could not move properly. She tried calling her mother, who was in another room, but her voice was too weak. It was her dog who began barking and helped alert her mother that something was wrong.

Her family tried simple home care at first, such as rest, warm compresses, and food. But nothing helped. When her father returned home and saw her condition, he insisted that she should go to the hospital. Bisma could hardly walk to the car, and the family realized the situation was serious.

At the hospital, doctors ran tests and scans. The results showed that Bisma had Stage 4 breast cancer, and the disease had silently spread to her spine. This was the reason for her severe back pain. The diagnosis came as a shock because she had not felt any lump or noticeable breast changes. She had believed that breast cancer always showed as a lump, but this was not the case for her.

Doctors explain that while lumps are a common sign of breast cancer, the disease can sometimes show symptoms in other ways. Persistent back pain, bone pain, or unusual tiredness can also be warning signs, especially if the cancer has spread to the bones. This is why noticing changes in the body and getting medical tests on time is very important.

Bisma’s experience teaches an important message for people of all ages, especially women. Many individuals ignore back pain, thinking it is only from work, stress, lifting heavy bags, or sitting for long hours. But if the pain continues for many days, comes suddenly, or feels different from normal pain, it is important to consult a doctor. Early detection makes treatment easier and improves chances of survival.

Research has also supported this connection. A study published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine in 2017 showed that in rare cases, back pain can be a sign of breast cancer that has spread to the spine. The study stated that while most back pain is harmless, pain that does not improve over time should not be ignored. Doctors recommend medical check-ups, scans, and proper tests if back pain is severe or long-lasting.

Bisma now works as an Integrative Cancer Recovery Coach, guiding other patients and survivors. She shares her story so that others do not ignore their body’s signals. She says that had she waited longer, her condition could have become even more difficult to treat. She wants people to understand that health should not be taken lightly.

Her journey is also a reminder that emotional support and awareness are very important for people facing cancer. She received strong support from her family, medical professionals, and her own determination. Many patients feel scared to talk about symptoms or fear being judged for complaining about pain. But speaking early and openly can save lives.

Bisma’s message is simple: “Listen to your body. Do not ignore your pain. If something does not feel right, get it checked.” This message is valuable for everyone — young or old. Early action can mean early treatment, and early treatment can save life.

Her story encourages people to take even small pain seriously when it does not go away. It also encourages families to support loved ones who are struggling with health issues. In today’s busy life, it is easy to overlook discomfort, but health should always come first.