First-ever ‘State of Breast Cancer’ Report Outlines Progress Made, Remaining Challenges in the fight against breast cancer

Susan G. Komen for the Cure Answers Need for Understandable,
Up-to-Date Overview on the Status of Breast Cancer in the World

Las Vegas – November, 2007 – Susan G. Komen for the Cure, recognized as the global leader in the breast cancer movement, has published the State of Breast Cancer report, a first-ever, reader-friendly snapshot of where the United States and the global community are in the quest to end breast cancer forever.

Written for readers who have an interest in breast cancer but no formal background in the biology of the disease, the State of Breast Cancer provides information on advancements in diagnosis, treatment and research that have made breast cancer a survivable disease for more than 2 million people in the United States. But the news is not all good. The report also explores cultural, social, educational and financial barriers – or disparities – that prevent many people from getting screened and receiving life-saving breast cancer care.

The State of Breast Cancer report was created because Susan G. Komen for the Cure discovered that no lay-friendly, comprehensive look at the progress in the breast cancer movement existed. Reports geared toward scientists and researchers were plentiful; but easy-to-understand reports on breast cancer for everyday people were non-existent.

“Komen for the Cure’s goal was to produce a report that gives people understandable information about breast cancer and reminds them that this battle is far from over,” said Komen Southern Nevada’s Community Programs Manager, Stacey Gross. “Too many people -- particularly people of certain ethnic and racial minorities and those with little or no health insurance -- still die needlessly of breast cancer.” 

Along with statistics and information about the disease and treatment approaches, the State of Breast Cancer report provides practical ways for people to engage in the breast cancer movement. An extensive breast cancer resource list is included, as well as a glossary of terms. 

“The State of Breast Cancer will surprise and upset many readers. People who get upset are usually inspired to take action, and that is what we hope readers will do,” said Hala Moddelmog, president and CEO of Komen for the Cure.

The report reveals that despite all the medical advancements that have been made, more than 40,000 people -- roughly the combined populations of Pahrump and Boulder City, NV -- will die of the disease in the U.S. this year.

The State of Breast Cancer report can be viewed online at www.komen.org/sobc2007.