In 2020, it is estimated that 19,974 Australians will be diagnosed with breast cancer, and it’s estimated that breast cancer will account for 14% of all new cancer cases diagnosed in 2020. However it is important to remember that most women survive breast cancer.
Breast cancer in men is rare with the latest statistics recording 164 Australian men diagnosed in 2019.
Australian women will be diagnosed.
The chance of surviving for at least five years after being diagnosed is about 91%.
About 167 men in Australia this year are estimated to be diagnosed with breast cancer.
Nine out of 10 breast changes are not due to cancer, but you should see your doctor to be sure.
In 2017, 1,830 women were diagnosed with breast cancer in Western Australia
1,471 in metro areas
359 in rural areas
249 women died from the disease in WA
In 2017, 1,830 women were diagnosed with breast cancer in Western Australia
In 2014, 1,737 women were diagnosed with breast cancer in Western Australia
In 2012, 1608 women were diagnosed with breast cancer in Western Australia
In 2010, 1444 women were diagnosed with breast cancer in Western Australia
Source: Cancer Australia 2019, West Australian Cancer Registry, Australian Institute of Health and Welfare and Cancer Australia 2012, Breast cancer in Australia: an overview. Cancer series no. 71. Cat. No. CAN 67. Canberra: AIHW. Breast Cancer Network Australia, Current Breast Cancer Statistics in Australia, Figures are from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2017 report, Cancer in Australia 2017. Cancer series no. 71. Cat. No. CAN 100. Canberra: AIHW
Breast cancer can start in different parts of the breast, most commonly in the ducts or the lobules. Breast cancer develops when cells in these areas change and begin to grow and multiply in an uncontrolled way.
Unfortunately, we don’t know. There is always research taking place, but there isn’t an agreed, single cause of breast cancer. However, research has shown that there are multiple factors that increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
There are many different things that can indicate breast cancer, but it’s important to know that most breast changes aren’t due to breast cancer. This said, you should absolutely see your doctor as soon as possible if you notice any of the changes below, or if you feel concerned about your breast health.
The process might be different from one person to another, but remember also that most changes are not due to breast cancer. You might however need the following tests to confirm what you feel:
