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  • Galfand Berger Sponsors Event Hosted by Breast Cancer Support Services of Berks County

    breast cancer support servicesBreast Cancer Support Services of Berks County is a non-profit organization that provides hope, information, and emotional support to every person affected by breast cancer. On Thursday, April 28th, the organization presented its “Cancer Knows No Party” event. The Olivet Boys and Girls Club of Reading and Berks County hosted the event. As a staunch supporter of providing hope, information, and emotional support to individuals affected by breast cancer, our firm is proud to participate as a co-sponsor for this important community outreach affair.

    Breast Cancer Statistics

    According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), breast cancer (aside from skin cancers) is the most common cancer diagnosis that women in the United States face. It accounts for approximately 30% of all new cancer diagnoses annually. The ACS’ estimates for breast cancer rates in 2022 are as follows:

    • Doctors will diagnose roughly287,850 new cases of invasive breast cancer
    • There will be approximately 51,400 new cases of ductal carcinoma in-situ, or DCIS
    • About 43,250 women will die from breast cancer

    In the United States, the average risk of a woman developing breast cancer at some point in her lifetime is about 13%, or a 1 in 8 chance. However, in the past few years the incidence rate has increased by 0.5% annually. The ACS reports that breast cancer occurs most frequently in middle-aged and older women. For example, the median age for a breast cancer diagnosis is 62-years-old. As compared to the prevalence of breast cancer diagnoses in middle-aged and older women, diagnoses in women under the age of 45 are relatively uncommon.

    When it comes to breast cancer, early detection, diagnosis, and treatment are key. In some cases, doctors find breast cancer after symptoms have already appeared, but plenty of women with breast cancer may experience no symptoms at all. Here are the ACS’ official recommendations for the early detection of breast cancer in women who are at average risk for the disease (women at average risk do not have a personal history of breast cancer, a strong family history of the disease, have not had chest radiation therapy before the age of 30, and do not have a genetic mutation known to increase breast cancer risks):

    • Women between 40 and 44-years-old have the choice to start screening with a mammogram every year. Women between the ages of 45 and 54-years-old should get mammograms each year
    • Women age 55 and above can continue getting annual screenings or opt to get a mammogram every two years. Mammograms should continue so long as the woman is in good health and expected to live at least 10 more years
    • Women who are at high risk for breast cancer should talk to their healthcare providers about scheduling preventive screenings and other useful tests

    Although many women experience no symptoms of breast cancer, some potential warning signs to look out for include a new lump or mass, swelling of all or part of the breast, skin dimpling, breast or nipple pain, nipple retraction (or turning inward), nipple or breast skin that is red, flaking, dry, or thickened, nipple discharge (not including breast milk), and swollen lymph nodes under the arm or close to the collar bone. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule a consultation with your provider.

    “Cancer Knows No Party” Event Details

    The “Cancer Knows No Party” event took place on Thursday, April 28th. Community organizations like local non-profits and elected officials were in attendance to serve as a reminder that cancer is a disease that affects everyone. The non-profits also provided useful local resources and services for attendees, their families, and their friends.

    Philadelphia Medical Malpractice Lawyers at Galfand Berger, LLP, Representing Injured Victims Since 1947

    If you have a question about filing a legal claim, contact the Philadelphia medical malpractice lawyers at Galfand Berger today. Call us at 800-222-USWA (8792) or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia, Bethlehem, Lancaster, and Reading, we serve clients throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania, including Allentown and Harrisburg.