Breast Cancer Awareness Resources

Breast Cancer Facts:*

In 2003, an estimated 211,300 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed among women.

Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed non-skin cancer in women in the United States. It is second only to lung cancer in cancer-related deaths.

If detected early the 5-year survival rate for localized breast cancer is 97%.

Risk Factors:**

Elevated risk of breast cancer is associated with the following conditions:

Having had a previous breast cancer.

Laboratory evidence that the woman is carrying a specific genetic mutation or change that increases the susceptibility to breast cancer.

Having a mother, sister, or daughter with a history of breast cancer or having two or more close relatives, such as cousins, with a history of breast cancer.

Having had a diagnosis of other types of breast disease (not cancer but a condition that may predispose to cancer) or having had two or more breast biopsies for benign disease, even if no atypical cells were found.

Having so much dense breast tissue on a previous mammographic examination that clear reading was difficult.

Having a first birth at age 30 or older.

*Facts are from the American Cancer Society. **Risk factors are from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

For More Information:

View AMA Policies related to breast cancer.

Toll-free numbers for related organizations:

American Cancer Society (800) 227-2345

The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation (800) 462-9273

National Alliance of Breast Cancer Organizations (888) 80-NABCO

Y-Me National Breast Cancer Organization (800) 221-2141

Call the CDC at (888) 842-6355 for information on free or low-cost mammograms.

(The resources listed above are for informational purposes only. A listing above does not indicate endorsement by the AMA.)