Just the Facts: Breast Cancer Stats
Just the Facts: Breast Cancer Stats
Raising awareness about breast cancer is important - especially when there will still be an estimated 40,000+ deaths in 2015 from breast cancer in the U.S. alone. And it's not just stats:
- What should you do when you're diagnosed?
- What are the warning signs?
- What can I do to help?
2015 Breast Cancer Statistics in the U.S. (courtesy of Susan G. Komen®)
- An estimated 231,840 new cases of invasive breast cancer in women, 2,350 in men (includes new cases of primary breast cancer among survivors, but not recurrence of original breast cancer among survivors)
- An estimated 40,290 breast cancer deaths for women, 440 deaths for men
- Since 1990, breast cancer mortality has decreased by 34% thanks to improved breast cancer treatment and early detection
- The two most common risk factors for breast cancer are being female and getting older. Remember, that young women can get breast cancer as well.
- In 2011 (the most recent date) breast cancer mortality was 44% higher for African-American women than white women. Possibilities for why this is includes biologic and genetic differences in tumors, prevalence of risk factors, barriers to health care access, health behaviors and later state of breast cancer at diagnosis.
What should you do if you or a friend has been recently diagnosed with breast cancer?
First and foremost, it's important to know that you are not alone. A breast cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating and is big news - but it's not as big as you or your loved ones. Take heart.
Susan G. Komen's resources can help you or someone you know through this process. Here is a great area of Komen.org on how to start your breast cancer journey if you're been recently diagnosed. From understanding your diagnosis to getting quality care, you can read up and prepare for the treatment ahead. You can also call 1-877-GO-KOMEN for help and information over the phone.
What are the warning signs for breast cancer?
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While early detection methods like having a mammogram done go a long way, it's important to know that not all breast cancers are found through that method. Susan G. Komen has several warning signs diagrams to show you what to look and feel for when doing a self breast exam. If you notice any of these warning signs, please see a health care provider.
What can I do to help?
Ready to dive in? First, if you know someone who has breast cancer, make sure that you're loving them by showing them your support. Whether that's a phone call, a card, your presence, etc. Let them know they're not alone.
Next, we make it easy to get involved in the fight. There are 3 primary ways to support the fight against breast cancer through Bowl for the Cure®:
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Raise awareness and help a great cause! USBC donates 25% of all Bowl for the Cure purchases to Susan G. Komen. Shop now |
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Make an online donation to Bowl for the Cure®. Your giving helps Susan G. Komen® support breast cancer research, treatment, screenings and education. Give today |
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Get involved! Host a Bowl for the Cure event in your area any time of year or find an event near you. |
If you have more questions about any and all things Bowl for the Cure, feel free to reach out by emailing bftc@BOWL.com or calling 817-385-8478.