No matter who you are or where you live, breast cancer may touch your life. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the U.S. and around the world. In 2019, about 268,600 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in the U.S. alone [1].
Progress in treatment and early detection has led to improved survival for people of all ages and races, and with all stages of breast cancer. In fact, there are more than 3.5 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S. today (more than any other group of cancer survivors) [2]!
The About Breast Cancer section of this website has the latest information to help you better understand breast cancer risk factors, screening, diagnosis, treatment, metastatic breast cancer, survivorship and more.
Breast cancer basics, including warning signs, statistics and information for men with breast cancer.
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Factors that affect breast cancer risk and options for people at higher risk.
Breast cancer screening tests, when to get screened and what to do if you find a lump or change in your breast.
Getting a biopsy and understanding your diagnosis, including factors that affect your prognosis and guide treatment.
Types of treatment, side effects, how to get quality care and other issues related to treatment, including the importance of clinical trials.
Metastatic breast cancer treatment and care, including information about clinical trials, symptom management and supportive care, quality of life and support for you and your family.
Common concerns and issues for those who have been diagnosed with breast cancer.
Resources to help with prescription drug and other medical costs as well as transportation, lodging, child care and elder care.
Information on support groups and other types of social support.
Information about our Breast Care Helpline, Clinical Trial Information Helpline and Treatment Assistance Program, as well as our educational materials and interactive resources.
The content within the About Breast Cancer section was co-developed with Harvard Medical School faculty and Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center staff. The content reflects the current body of scientific knowledge on a topic. We look at the consistency within research from large studies (done with people) reported in reputable, peer-reviewed journals.
1. American Cancer Society. Cancer Facts and Figures 2019. Atlanta, GA: American Cancer Society, 2019.
2. American Cancer Society. Cancer Treatment and Survivorship Facts and Figures 2016-2017. Atlanta, GA: American Cancer Society, 2016.
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