Breast cancer survival rates reach over 95% through early detection

Medical experts highlight significant progress in breast cancer treatment, noting that five-year survival rates have risen from approximately 70% in the 1970s to over 95% today. Dr. Alberto Montero of the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine emphasizes that this improvement is largely driven by early detection.

According to the National Cancer Institute’s SEER program, the five-year relative survival rate for women diagnosed between 2016 and 2022 was 91.9%. For cases caught while still confined to the breast—which accounts for about 64% of cases—the five-year relative survival rate is 100%.

While mammography remains the gold standard for screening, doctors note that current guidelines are primarily designed for women at average risk. Additionally, medical professionals point out that most breast cancers are not caused by genetic factors, and modern molecular testing is increasingly used to determine if patients can avoid chemotherapy.