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Background Information
Learn about the importance of regular mammograms and review basic information and statistics about breast cancer and mammography. Find out about the history of breast cancer detection research and new advances on the horizon.
After skin cancer, breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women in the United States. It is second only to lung cancer in cancer-related deaths. Approximately 180,000 new cases of breast cancer are estimated for 1997, and about 44,000 women are expected to die from the disease.
Regular screening mammograms, though not perfect, are the best method available today to detect breast cancer early. Early detection of the disease may allow more treatment options.
The National Cancer Institute has developed the web site "About Mammograms" as part of a campaign to educate women, their doctors, health educators, and the media about the importance of regular screening mammograms for women in the 40s and older. In addition, a new series of printed materials are available free from NCI, adn can be ordered by calling 1-800-4-CANCER.
Background information on the web site includes:
Fact Sheets on mammography and on NCI's screening mammography recommendations
Research Studies on Screening Mammograms: This document helps explain the research behind mammography recommendations
The NIH Consensus Statement on Breast Cancer Screening for Women Ages 40-49 developed by an independent panel, consisting of specialists and generalists as well as representatives from the public
Basic Statistics on Mammography and Breast Cancer
Descriptions of Department of Health and Human Services Breast Cancer and
Mammography Education Programs
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