Breast Cancer Awareness

Dedicated to increasing awareness of this disease. Join us in spreading awareness and taking proactive steps toward breast health.

Fast Facts About Breast Cancer

Source: American Cancer Society

  • In 2023, in the United States, an estimated 297,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and about 43,700 women die from the disease. (Source: American Cancer Society)
  • Men also get breast cancer, but it is not very common. Less than 1% of breast cancers occur in men. About 1 out of every 100 breast cancers diagnosed in the United States is found in a man.
  • Breast cancer mainly occurs in middle-aged and older women. The median age at the time of breast cancer diagnosis is 62. This means half of the women who developed breast cancer are 62 years of age or younger when they are diagnosed. A very small number of women diagnosed with breast cancer are younger than 45.

Trends in Breast Cancer Deaths

Source: American Cancer Society

  • Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women. (Only lung cancer kills more women each year.) A woman's chance to die from breast cancer is about 1 in 39 (about 2.5%).
  • Breast cancer death rates have been decreasing steadily since 1989, for an overall decline of 43% through 2020. The decrease in death rates is believed to be the result of finding breast cancer earlier through screening, increased awareness, and better treatments. However, the decline has slowed slightly in recent years.
Facts and Stats
Logo for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Recognizing Symptoms

Breast cancer can present with various symptoms, or it may be asymptomatic. Signs to be aware of include:

  • Any change in the size or shape of the breast.
  • Pain in any area of the breast.
  • Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood.
  • A new lump in the breast or underarm.

If you notice any of these signs or have any concerns, it's essential to consult your doctor promptly.

Reducing Your Risk

Taking steps to lower your breast cancer risk is crucial. Consider the following:

  • Maintain a healthy weight and engage in regular exercise.
  • Limit or avoid alcohol consumption.
  • Discuss the risks with your healthcare provider if you take hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills.
  • Breastfeeding, if possible, may reduce the risk.
  • Transgender or Non-Binary individuals should also follow breast cancer screening recommendations.
ScreenOutCancer

Self-Screening

Performing regular breast self-examinations is an easy way to stay proactive. Learn more about performing a breast self-exam on the National Breast Cancer Foundation's website.

Access to Affordable Screening

If you or someone you know is concerned about the cost of breast cancer screening, Connecticut offers free or low-cost screening through the National Breast & Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program. Help spread the word about this valuable program, funded by the CDC and the State of Connecticut.

Access to Affordable Screening

BreastCancer.org

For more facts and statistics about breast cancer, explore the comprehensive resources available on BreastCancer.org.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offer valuable information on breast cancer, including prevention and early detection strategies.

American Cancer Society

The American Cancer Society provides comprehensive information on breast cancer and its prevention, empowering individuals with knowledge.

Did You Know?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) started with awards in 8 states to establish comprehensive screening early detection programs in 1991.

Interested in more information?

Contact the Uncas Health District Public Health Program Coordinator

Constance M. Capacchione, M.S., M.P.H.
Phone: 860-823-1189 Ext 122

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