According to Sky News breast cancer survival rates are on the rise. In fact, from 1946 when the survival rate was 37% to 1998 when the survival rate was 77% was more than double, and it continues to rise.

Here’s some interesting stats from the Cancerwise site. In the 1940’s 72% of the women had a 5 year survival rate where as today that rate is 97%. That’s pretty exciting! And according to Dr. Levin the death rate continues to drop which is even more exciting.

But so dose the number of breast cancer cases which makes these numbers even more significant since the 1940’s where around 10,000 cases where as in 2007 there were an estimated 200,000 cases of invasive breast cancer.

Why is the number of breast cancer cases on the rise? The increase is partially a result of women having children later in life and having fewer children.

There are some risk factors you should be aware of – these include your family history, your age, and the age at which you had your first child. Postmenopausal obesity, using HRT after menopause, early menarche, late menopause, and obesity all increase your risk of breast cancer.

It’s important that you do regular breast self-examinations and that you have regular mammograms. If you are over the age of 40 you should have a mammogram each year, while under 40 should have a clinical breast exam every few years. The earlier the detection of breast cancer the more likely you will have a successful outcome.

If you are in need of breast cancer information there are many excellent resources online, and of course your doctor can answer any questions you might have. If you discover a lump please don’t procrastinate. Remember the earlier your breast cancer is treated the better your outcome.

Breast cancer survival rates are on the rise and that’s certainly worth celebrating.