About Breast Cancer

Did you know? Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of death for women in California. Breast cancer is a type of cancer where cells in the breast tissue divide and grow without normal control. It is a widespread and random disease, striking women and men of all ages and races. It is the most prevalent cancer in the world today, with about 1.3 million people diagnosed annually. The exact cause of the disease is unknown, and at this time, there is no cure.

But there is hope. Thanks to heightened awareness, early detection through screening, improved treatment methods and increased access to breast health services, people have a greater chance of survival than ever before.

Understanding Breast Cancer

Welcome to Understanding Breast Cancer, your source for up-to-date information on breast cancer. This is a website developed jointly by Susan G. Komen for the Cure® HQ and Harvard Center for Cancer Prevention. Here you will find the latest information on diagnosis and treatment, risk factors & prevention and early detection and screening, and a host of other topics—like complementary therapies and life after treatment.

Breast Self-Awareness

Except for skin cancers, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, but it can be successfully treated. Screening tests can find cancer early, when it’s most treatable. Learn more about what you can do to increase your Breast Self-Awareness .

Susan G. Komen for the Cure® recommends that you:

1. Know your risk.

• Talk to your family to learn about your family health history
• Talk to your provider about your personal risk of breast cancer

2. Get screened.

• 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

3. Know what is normal for you.

See your health care provider right away if you notice any of these changes in your breasts:

• Lump, hard knot or thickening
• Swelling, warmth, redness or darkening
• Change in the size or shape of the breast
• Dimpling or puckering of the skin
• Itchy, scaly sore or rash on the nipple
• Pulling in of your nipple or other parts of the breast
• Nipple discharge that starts suddenly
• New pain in one spot that doesn’t go away

4. Make healthy lifestyle choices.

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Add exercise into your routine
• Limit your alcohol intake