Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide, with approximately 1.7 million new cases diagnosed annually. Incidence of breast cancer is increasing, particularly in developing countries where the majority of cases are diagnosed in late stages.

Survival rates from breast cancer are also increasing, largely due to earlier detection and a better understanding of the disease and how to treat it. As men have breast tissue, they can also develop breast cancer. However, it is much less common than in women. Early detection in order to improve breast cancer outcome and survival remains the cornerstone of breast cancer control. This month we take a closer look at breast cancer, highlighting the symptoms, risks, diagnosis and treatment for the disease.

As with breast cancer in women, prognosis of male breast cancer is predominantly influenced by tumour stage. So early detection and treatment are vital.

Did you know?

Breast cancer is the leading cancer killer among women aged 20–59 years worldwide.