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Breast Cancer

Definition of breast cancer: Cancer that forms in tissues of the breast, usually the ducts (tubes that carry milk to the nipple) and lobules (glands that make milk). It occurs in both men and women, although male breast cancer is rare. 
Estimated new cases and deaths from breast cancer in the United States in 2012:


New cases: 226,870 (female); 2,190 (male)
Deaths: 39,510 (female); 410 (male)

See the online booklet What You Need To Know About™ Breast Cancer to learn about breast cancer symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and questions to ask the doctor.

For an overview of research advances, see Cancer Advances In Focus: Breast Cancer.

Research and Related Information

Includes NCI-supported research, funding opportunities, and special reports

Related Pages

  • Learn About Mammograms
    Information to help women and health professionals understand the benefits and risks related to mammograms.
  • Inflammatory Breast Cancer
    A fact sheet about the diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory breast cancer, an uncommon type of cancer in which the breast becomes red, swollen, and warm.
  • Moving Beyond Breast Cancer Videos
    Several breast cancer survivors discuss their journey and offer tips and advice to help cope with the challenges of recovery.
  • NIHSeniorHealth: Breast Cancer
    NIHSeniorHealth is a Web site that features authoritative and up-to-date health information in a format tailored to older adults.

General Cancer Resources

  • Coping with Cancer: Supportive and Palliative Care
    Managing physical, emotional, and lifestyle effects of cancer and treatment on patients and families; also includes information on finances, insurance, and healthcare services.
  • Complementary and Alternative Medicine
    Healing philosophies, approaches, and therapies used in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in cancer care.
  • Learn About Clinical Trials
    Basic to advanced information for all audiences about clinical trials. Learn about what clinical trials are, why they are important, and why people choose to take part. Also, learn strategies for educating others about the importance of clinical trials.