2. Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among women in the United States.
3. Men can develop breast cancer too. In 1999 approximately 1,300 male cases of breast cancer may be diagnosed, and 400 men may die from the disease.
4. Every women is at risk for breast cancer. The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age, with a family history of breast cancer, never having children or having the first child after 30, having prior treatment with radiation therapy for Hodgkin's disease. However, over 70% of cases occur in women who have no identifiable risk factors.
5. Breast cancer incidence increases with age, rising sharply after age 40. Approximately 80% of invasive breast cancer occurs in women over the age of 50.
6. In 1999, approximately 175,000 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed, and approximately 43,300 women will die from the disease.
7. Breast cancer cannot yet be prevented. However, there are options available for reducing the potential risks.
8. Breast cancer can be detected at an early, treatable stage in women age 40 and older with regular mammograms.Annual breast examinations by a medical professional are a required compliment to annual screening mammography.
9. Over 80% of biopsied breast abnormalities are proven benign, but any breast lump must be evaluated by a physician.
10. If detected early, breast cancer can be treated effectively.
