Vitals
According to the most recent data, breast cancer mortality rates continue to decline, with the largest decreases among younger women. These decreases are likely due to earlier detection and improved treatment.
Women 40 and older should have an annual mammogram and an annual clinical breast exam performed by a health care professional, and should perform monthly breast self-examination. The clinical exam should be conducted close to the scheduled mammogram. Women ages 20-39 should have a clinical breast exam performed by a health care professional every three years and should perform monthly breast self-examination.
Breast cancer by the numbers in U.S., 1998 (estimates):
New cases, female: 178,700
New cases, male: 1,600
Deaths, female: 43,500
Deaths, male: 400
*
California:
New cases, female: 19,150
New cases, male: 150
Deaths, female: 4,545
Deaths, male: 40
*
Six Southern California counties, both sexes:
New cases Deaths
Los Angeles: 4,940 1,250
Orange: 1,650 365
Riverside: 900 215
San Bernardino: 780 200
San Diego: 1,630 410
Ventura: 405 90
Source: The American Cancer Society
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