The American Cancer Society estimates that in Minnesota alone, 5,480 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in 2024, and an estimated 630 women will die of breast cancer.
The lifetime risk for a woman developing breast cancer is 1 in 8.
— American Cancer Society
This year in America, it is estimated that 310,720 women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer and 42,250 will die.
— American Cancer Society
2,790 American men will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 530 will die this year.
— American Cancer Society
As of January 2024, there are more than 4 million women living with breast cancer in the United States.
— National Cancer Institute
All women are at risk for breast cancer. About 85% of women with breast cancer have no family history of the disease, and less than 10% have a known gene mutation that increases risk.
— National Breast Cancer Coalition
The current methods of treatment for breast cancer in use in the United States include surgery (mastectomy and lumpectomy), radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and biological therapy (including, monoclonal antibody therapy).
— Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Ann Harris and Lois Joseph, diagnosed with breast cancer at ages 39 and 55 respectively, started the Breast Cancer Awareness Association in 2001, drawing on their own experiences as survivors. The first annual Twin Cities Breast Cancer Awareness Conference was launched as a part of the Day of Caring program, which has since suspended work on a national level. Today the Breast Cancer Education Association (BCEA) is the only organization in Minnesota whose sole purpose is to educate and support individuals, families and friends dealing with breast cancer.