Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Ohio, regardless of race. Breast cancer accounts for nearly one-third of all cancers diagnosed in women. Only lung cancer accounts for more cancer deaths in women. The average annual mortality rate for breast cancer in Ohio females from 1996-1999 was 30.9 per 100,000. This represents 8,067 deaths from breast cancer over the time period.

About 50 men are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in Ohio compared to approximately 1,500 are diagnosed nationally. Clinically, breast cancer in men is very similar to breast cancer in women, but the prognosis is often poorer for men because they tend to be diagnosed at a later stage.

Risk Factors

Although a specific cause is unknown, several risk factors may contribute to the development of breast cancer. They include:

• Age (95% of breast cancers occur in women aged 40 and older)
• Personal or family history of breast cancer (5% - 10% of breast cancers are hereditary)
• History of noncancerous breast disease
• Long menstrual history (menstrual periods that start early and end late in life)
• Obesity, especially after menopause
• Recent use of oral contraceptives or post-menopausal estrogens and progestin
• Never having a child or first child born after age 30
• Alcohol use, especially two or more drinks daily
   

Early Detection and Prevention

Nearly all breast cancers can be treated successfully if detected early. An annual mammogram from age 40 and over is the most effective way to detect breast cancer at an early, curable stage. Annual clinical breast exams by a doctor or nurse and monthly self-breast examinations are additional ways to detect breast cancer early. Some breast cancer risk factors, such as family history, cannot be changed. However, a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer may be reduced by staying physically active, avoiding obesity, and reducing alcohol use.

Last Updated: 10/24/02

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