Every woman is at risk – what you should know about breast cancer

Most doctors agree that early detection of breast cancer offers the best chance for long-term survival. However, many women still don’t know why regular mammograms and early detection are important.

 
Consider the facts:

• One in eight women, or 12 percent of all women, will be diagnosed with breast cancer.
• More than 80 percent of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history.
• Breast cancer risk increases with age.
• Nearly 77 percent of women with breast cancer are over age 50.
• More than 1.7 million women who have had breast cancer are still alive in the U.S.
• Approximately 96 percent of women who find and treat breast cancer early will be cancer-free after five years.

American Cancer Society breast health guidelines

American Cancer Society guidelines recommend women have a baseline mammogram performed at age 35 and annual mammograms beginning at age 40. Monthly self-exams and clinical breast exams as part of a routine physical are also important. Women known to be at increased risk for breast cancer may benefit from earlier detection testing and/or the addition of MRI. These women should discuss guidelines with their doctors.