About one in 11 Australian women develop breast cancer before the age of 75 years. Breast cancer affects mainly older women. More than 75% of cases occur in women 50 years and older, and only 2% of breast cancers occur in women under 35. Men also develop breast cancer, although it is extremely rare. Less than 1% of diagnosed breast cancers are found in men.

If breast cancer is detected in its earlier stages there is an increased probability of successful treatment. For this reason it is important for a woman to be alert to any breast changes and report them as soon as possible to their doctor. Although breast changes themselves are quite common, the vast majority are not breast cancer. Of the women who visit their doctor to discuss breast changes, very few go on to be diagnosed with breast cancer. The majority either receive an all clear, or the results indicate a non-cancerous (benign) condition.

There are many forms of breast cancer with varying prognosis. It is not helpful to compare one woman with another. Each case is individual and is treated individually. Family, friends and others involved with a woman with breast cancer need to be sensitive to this and not make assumptions about her future.

This website does NOT attempt to provide a comprehensive discussion on every topic. Where appropriate we refer to other websites to provide further information. For those who wish to explore a topic even further, we have provided links to additional Websites (including research sites).

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