How many women get breast cancer
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Breast Cancer Incidence and Mortality Rates Among Women
Overview of Breast Cancer Incidence
Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide, with significant variations in incidence rates across different regions and demographics. In 2020, it was estimated that over 2 million new cases of breast cancer were diagnosed globally. In the United States, the American Cancer Society reported approximately 232,340 new cases of invasive breast cancer in 2013, 230,480 in 2011, and 231,840 in 2015. By 2017, the number of new cases had increased to 252,710.
Lifetime Risk and Demographic Variations
The lifetime risk of developing breast cancer for women in the United States is approximately 1 in 8. Incidence rates have shown slight increases over the years, with a 0.3% annual rise from 2012 to 2016 and a 0.5% annual increase from 2010 to 2019. These increases are largely driven by localized-stage and hormone receptor-positive diseases .
Racial and Ethnic Disparities
Breast cancer incidence rates vary significantly by race and ethnicity. Historically, white women have had the highest incidence rates among women aged 40 years and older, but these rates are converging with those of African American women, particularly among women aged 50 to 59 years. From 2008 to 2012, incidence rates increased among non-Hispanic black and Asian/Pacific Islander women, while remaining stable among non-Hispanic white, Hispanic, and American Indian/Alaska Native women.
Mortality Rates and Trends
Breast cancer mortality rates have been declining since their peak in 1989. From 1989 to 2017, the death rate dropped by 40%, translating to 375,900 breast cancer deaths averted. However, the pace of decline has slowed in recent years, with a 1.3% annual decrease from 2011 to 2020 compared to a 1.9% annual decrease from 2002 to 2011. Despite these improvements, significant racial disparities in mortality rates persist. Black women have a 40% higher death rate compared to white women, despite having a lower incidence rate .
Survival Rates and Metastatic Breast Cancer
Survival rates for breast cancer vary by stage and molecular subtype. The five-year relative survival rate for women diagnosed with de novo metastatic breast cancer (MBC) has increased, particularly among younger women, with a two-fold increase from 18% to 36% for those diagnosed between 1992-1994 and 2005-2012. As of January 1, 2017, an estimated 154,794 women were living with MBC in the United States.
Conclusion
Breast cancer remains a significant health concern for women globally, with varying incidence and mortality rates influenced by race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. While advancements in early detection and treatment have led to declining mortality rates, persistent disparities highlight the need for continued efforts to provide equitable access to high-quality care for all women. Addressing these disparities is crucial for accelerating progress against breast cancer and improving outcomes for all affected individuals.
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