Breast Cancer Facts
Knowledge is your most powerful tool. Learn the facts about breast cancer — early detection saves lives.
1 in 8
Women in the U.S. will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime.
310,720
New cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women in the U.S. in 2024.
99%
Five-year relative survival rate for localized breast cancer (cancer that has not spread outside the breast).
4.1M
Women in the U.S. with a history of breast cancer, including those currently being treated and those who have finished treatment.
Early Detection Saves Lives
When breast cancer is detected early, in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%. That's why regular screenings and self-exams are so important.
Monthly Self-Exams
Perform a breast self-exam once a month, ideally a few days after your period ends. Familiarity with your breasts helps you notice any changes.
Annual Clinical Exams
Women in their 20s and 30s should have a clinical breast exam as part of their regular health exam at least every 3 years. After 40, annually.
Mammograms
Women ages 40–44 have the option to start annual mammograms. Women 45–54 should get mammograms every year. Women 55 and older can switch to every 2 years.
Know Your Risk
Talk to your doctor about your personal risk factors, including family history, genetic mutations (BRCA1/BRCA2), and lifestyle factors.
Risk Factors
While having a risk factor does not mean you will get breast cancer, being aware helps you make informed decisions about your health.
- Being female — women are much more likely than men to develop breast cancer.
- Increasing age — most breast cancers are diagnosed after age 50.
- Family history of breast or ovarian cancer.
- Inherited gene mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2.
- Dense breast tissue.
- Personal history of breast cancer or certain non-cancerous breast diseases.
- Previous radiation therapy to the chest area.
- Reproductive history — starting periods before age 12 or menopause after 55.
Warning Signs
See your doctor right away if you notice any of the following changes:
- A new lump in the breast or underarm (armpit).
- Thickening or swelling of part of the breast.
- Irritation or dimpling of breast skin.
- Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast.
- Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area.
- Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood.
- Any change in the size or the shape of the breast.
- Pain in any area of the breast.