Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women in the United States, according to the National Cancer Institute. Treatment advances, earlier detection and increased awareness of breast cancer are all thought to have improved mortality rates for breast cancer since 1990, according to Breastcancer.org.
Definition
Breastcancer.org says cells that grow uncontrollably are responsible for the development of breast cancer. This uncontrolled growth eventually becomes a malignant tumor causing cancer.
Prevalence
The incidence of breast cancer in women in the United States is one in eight, which is about 13 percent, according to Breastcancer.org. This means that one in eight women can expect to develop breast cancer over the course of a lifetime.
Individual Risk
A person's individual risk may be higher or lower than 13 percent. According to Breastcancer.org, the risk for breast cancer depends on factors such as age, family history and medical history. Risk factors that are modifiable include weight, physical activity and alcohol consumption.
Symptoms
Symptoms of breast cancer are not always evident. When they do occur, they can vary widely and range from lumps to swelling to skin changes.
Treatment
According to Breastcancer.org, normal treatments for breast cancer can include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation as well as hormonal and new targeted therapies.
