Breast Cancer Overview
Breast cancer is malignant abnormal cell growth in the breast. Cancer cells may spread to other areas of the body (called metastasis). Fibrocystic changes (e.g., formation of cysts, scar tissue) may cause benign (i.e., noncancerous) lumps in the breast. It is important for women to become familiar with their breasts and report changes (e.g., lump, nipple discharge, asymmetry) to their health care practitioner.
Incidence and Prevalence of Breast Cancer
In women, breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. One in eight women in the United States will develop breast cancer during her lifetime.
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), approximately 200,000 new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed each year in the United States, and the disease causes about 41,000 deaths annually.
The incidence of breast cancer rises after age 40. The highest incidence (approximately 80% of invasive cases) occurs in women over age 50.
Physician-developed and -monitored.
Original Date of Publication: 15 Aug 1999
Reviewed by: Stanley J. Swierzewski, III, M.D.
Last Reviewed: 04 Dec 2007
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