According to the American Cancer Society’s 2013 Cancer Facts and Figures, 232,340 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed among women in the U.S. this year and 39,620 women are expected to die from this disease.  While it may seem that incidence has risen over the years, from 2005 to 2009 (the most recent data available), breast cancer incidence rates were stable. Also, the 5-year relative survival rate for women diagnosed with localized breast cancer (cancer confined to the breast) is again 98 percent.

Remember, Susan G. Komen for the Cure recommends that you:

• Talk to your family to learn about your family health history
• Talk to your doctor about your personal risk of breast cancer
• Ask your doctor which screening tests are right for you if you are at a higher risk
• Have a mammogram every year starting at age 40 if you are at average risk
• Have a clinical breast exam at least every 3 years starting at 20, and every year starting at 40
• Know how your breasts look and feel and report changes to your health care provider right away
• Make healthy lifestyle choices that may reduce your risk of breast cancer