Breast Cancer Facts & Figures for 2009
- Excluding cancers of the skin, breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed among U.S. women, accounting for more than 1 in 4 cancers.
- An estimated 192,370 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in American women during 2009.
- An estimated 40,610 breast cancer deaths are anticipated this year (40,170 women, 440 men).
- In the U.S., a woman has a 1 in 8 (12 percent) risk of developing breast cancer in her lifetime.
- 2.4 million women living in the U.S. have been diagnosed with and treated for breast cancer.
- The five-year survival rate for breast cancer, when caught early before it spreads beyond the breast, is now 98 percent (compared to 74 percent in 1982).
- Breast cancer is second only to lung cancer in cancer deaths among women.
Breast Cancer Risk Factors
- The greatest risk factor for developing breast cancer is gender (female) and the second is age. Between 2000-2004, 95 percent of new cases and 97 percent of breast cancer deaths occurred in women aged 40 and older.
- The risk of developing breast cancer increases for women whose parent, sibling or child have had the disease.
- Family history on mother or father’s side is equally important.
- Having a first child after age 30 or having no children.
- Early menstruation (before age 12) or late menopause (after age 55).
- History of ovarian or colon cancer.
- Obesity, particularly after menopause.
Early Detection
Our greatest weapon against breast cancer is early detection. Breast cancer found early can usually be treated successfully.
- Practice breast self-examinations monthly starting at age 20.
- Have a clinical breast examination every three years during ages 20-39, and annually beginning at age 40.
- Have a mammogram annually beginning at age 40.
To make an appointment, please call (813) 872-2973. To have questions answered regarding your breast health, please call our Nurse Navigator at (813) 356-7117.
