|
Staging and Survival Rates
Staging is the process physicians use
to assess the size and location of a patient’s cancer. This information helps
determine the most optimal form of treatment. Breast cancer stages range from Stage 0
(very early form of cancer) to Stage IV (advanced, metastatic breast cancer). Click here for a detailed explanation of each stage of breast
cancer.
The five-year survival rate for breast
cancer is calculated based on averages. Each patient’s individual tumor
characteristics, state of health, genetic background, etc. will impact her survival. In
addition, levels of stress, immune function, will to live, and other unmeasurable factors
also play a significant role in a patient’s survival.
| Stage |
5-year
Relative
Survival Rate |
| 0 |
100% |
| I |
100% |
| IIA |
92% |
| IIB |
81% |
| IIIA |
67% |
| IIIB |
54% |
| IV |
20% |
| Source: American Cancer Society |
Overall Survival Rate |
After 5 years
After 10 years
After 15 years
After 20 years |
88%
80%
71%
63% |
| Source: American Cancer Society |
Statistics
on Mammography
The key to surviving breast cancer is
early detection and treatment. According to the American Cancer Society, when breast
cancer is confined to the breast, the five-year survival rate is close to 100%. The early
detection of breast cancer helps reduce the need for therapeutic treatment and minimizes
pain and suffering, allowing women to continue leading happy, productive lives.
Beginning at the age of 20, every woman
should practice monthly breast self-exams and begin a routine
program of breast health, including scheduling physician performed clinical breast exams
at least every three years. As a woman ages, her risk of breast cancer also increases.
About 77% of women with breast cancer are over age 50 at the time of diagnosis. Women
between the ages of 20 and 29 account for only 0.3% of breast cancer cases. Beginning at
the age of 40, all women should have annual screening mammograms,
receive clinical breast exams each year, and practice
breast self-exams every month.
| Percent of American Women Over 40 Who Have Had a
Mammogram Within Past 2 Years |
White
Black, Non-Hispanic
Hispanic
American Indian/Alaska Native
Asian American
|
70.4%
70.4%
66.1%
68.6%
58.8%
69.3%
|
|
Source: American Cancer Society, 2005. Based on 2003 data.
|
Links to
Other U.S. Breast Cancer Statistics
Updated: January 23, 2008
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