Wellness Watch – Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women in the United States, behind only skin cancer. It can occur in men and women, but it is much more common in women.

Breast Cancer Fast Facts (source:  American Cancer Society)

  • Women have a 1 in 8 lifetime risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer.
  • In 2025, 317,000 new cases of breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women and 2,800 cases in men in the U.S.
  • In 2025, 42,680 people in the U.S. are expected to die from breast cancer.
  • In Georgia, 10,180 people are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2025, and 1,420 Georgians are expected to die from the disease.
  • Georgia has a higher rate of breast cancer and a higher mortality rate than the U.S. average.
  • Black women have the highest death rate from breast cancer, partially because they have a higher risk for the most dangerous form of the disease.
  • Breast cancer death rates have been steadily decreasing since 1989 because of improved screenings, increased awareness and better treatments.
  • There are more than 4.3 million breast cancer survivors living in the U.S.

At Phoebe, we recommend all women 40 and older get an annual mammogram to screen for breast cancer. Every year, Phoebe’s Carlton Breast Health Center performs more than 18,000 mammograms. Learn more about our services here: Phoebe Carlton Breast Health Center

Women at high risk of breast cancer should discuss additional screening options with their physicians, and all women should do monthly self-exams. They should see a physician promptly if they discover a lump or other changes in their breasts.

Phoebe’s team approach to cancer care ensures every breast cancer patient can choose the individual treatment plan that is best for her. Plastic surgeon Dr. Mayowa Abiodun is often an important part of that team. She specializes in reconstructive breast surgery. Learn more about the Phoebe Cancer Center and Phoebe Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery by clicking on the links below.

You can also find much more information on breast cancer from reliable sources at: