Breast Cancer

Cancer of the breast can occur in men or women at any age, but it occurs more frequently with increased age. According to the American Cancer Society, three-fourths of all breast cancers occurs in women over the age of 50, and about 1300 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Over 215,990 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected among American women during the year 2004.

There is no known cause of breast cancer, and thus, it is not a result of something you may have done or not done. Stress or an injury to the breast does not cause breast cancer. Although there are known risk factors, the majority of women who develop breast cancer do not have any risk factors or a history of the disease in the family. The American Cancer Society reports the mortality rates from breast cancer have declined significantly from 1990-1997 with the largest decrease in younger women. These reductions are thought to be the result of earlier detection and improved treatment.

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