Breast Cancer Screening and Diagnosis Clinical Practice Guidelines

Abstract

The lifetime risk of a woman developing breast cancer has increased over the past 5 years in the United States: of every 7 women, 1 is at risk based on a life expectancy of 85 years. An estimated 214,640 new cases (212,920 women and 1,720 men) of breast cancer and 41,430 deaths (40,970 women and 460 men) from this disease will occur in the United States in 2006. However, mortality from breast cancer has decreased slightly, attributed partly to mammographic screening. Early detection and accurate diagnosis made in a cost-effective manner are critical to a continued reduction in mortality. These practice guidelines are designed to facilitate clinical decision making. For the most recent version of the guidelines, please visit NCCN.org