Risk Factors, Prevention and Early Detection
There are many known risk factors linked to breast cancer. Some of these factors affect risk a great deal and others by only a small amount. And some risk factors you can’t change. For instance, just being a woman and getting older increase your chances of getting breast cancer. However, there are things you can do to reduce your risk of breast cancer.
- Lead a healthy lifestyle can help lower risk.
- Maintain a general understanding of what factors may increase your risk can help you work with your health care provider to develop a breast health plan that is right for you.
- Get regular screening tests to detect breast cancer early when it’s most treatable.
Breast Cancer Statistics: The United States
Prevalence of Breast Cancer in 2009 (United States)
- Cases: An estimated 192,370 new cases of invasive breast cancer will occur among women in the United States [1].
- Deaths: An estimated 40,170 women will die from breast cancer. Also, about 1,910 men will be diagnosed and 440 men will die of breast cancer during 2009 in the United States [1]. Breast Cancer Statistics: Worldwide
Prevalence of Breast Cancer (Worldwide)
- About 1.3 million new cases of breast cancer were expected to occur among women worldwide in 2007 (most recent data available) [2]. Rates of breast cancer around the world vary a great deal. In general, developed countries have higher rates than developing countries. Lifestyle and reproductive factors are thought to play a large role. Low screening rates and incomplete reporting can make rates of breast cancer in developing countries look lower than they truly are and may also explain some of the difference.
1. American Cancer Society. Cancer Facts and Figures 2009. Atlanta, GA: American Cancer Society, 2009.
2. American Cancer Society. Global Cancer Facts and Figures 2007. Atlanta, GA: American Cancer Society, 2007.
