Breast Cancer Facts & Figures for 2003
- Breast cancer is the most frequently occurring cancer - 211,300 U.S. women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in 2003.
- 13,500 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in Florida this year.
- One woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every three minutes in the United States.
- One woman dies from breast cancer every 12 minutes in the United States.
- This year, 39,800 women will die from breast cancer.
- One out of eight women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime.
- Men are also at risk - 1,300 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, and 400 will die from breast cancer.
- Breast cancer is the leading cause of death among women 20-59 years of age.
- Breast cancer costs billions of dollars each year in medical expenses and lost productivity.
Breast Cancer Risk Factors
- At least 76% of breast cancers have NO risk factors - the greatest risk is being female and getting older.
- 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.
- Increased alcohol intake (2-3 drinks or more per day).
- Obesity, particularly after menopause.
- Jewish heritage.
- Hormone therapy.
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.
Contact a health care provider if you notice anything out of the ordinary on your breast exam.
