Early Detection Saves

Breast Cancer Survival Rates

Breast Cancer survival depends upon a number of factors. Cancers that are found early are often localized to the breast. Statistics on the survival rate of breast cancer are often given as 5-year survival rates. The 5-year survival rate is the percentage of people who live at least 5 years after being diagnosed with breast cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, women with early stage (stage 1) breast cancer have a 5-year survival rate of 100%. Women with breast cancer that has spread to distant sites in the body (stage 4) have only a 22% chance of surviving 5 years; but this rate can improve as treatment advances are made. So long story short: Early detection saves lives!

Increase your chances detecting breast cancer early by:

  1. Schedule and GO to your annual well- woman exam as this is a great time for any woman to talk to her health care provider about any concerns or questions she may have about breast health.
  2. Become better acquainted with your breasts. Be familiar with how they feel and look normally so any changes can be spotted or detected right away. If change is found, schedule an appointment with a doctor to help diagnose or identify symptoms or determine any next steps if necessary. Important here to remember 8 out of 10 lumps found are NOT cancerous.
  3. Mammograms and their importance can not be overstated nor should they be underestimated. The National Breast Cancer Foundation recommends women ages 40 and older get yearly exams. Women with family history may be encouraged to screen sooner.

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