Oncology Annual Report: Breast Cancer

These charts show a strong correlation between early detection and the advancement of breast cancer. Early detection through cancer screenings such as monthly breast-self exams (BSE) and mammograms have also contributed to an increase in the number of younger patients being diagnosed with the cancer. Although the number of cases in the younger population has risen, the median age for breast cancer patients remains between 50 and 60.

The American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) Stage chart depicts a startling trend among African-Americans and other minorities who are more frequently diagnosed with advanced stages of the disease and, therefore, have higher morality (death) rates compared to Caucasians. This trend is likely due to the fact that minorities tend not to participate in early screenings. Early detection is still the best weapon in fighting breast cancer.