Breast Cancer is a disease of older women

The news media have covered the debate regarding screening mammography in the 40-50 year old population without paying attention to the details of the arguments. It will be noted that the occurrence of breast cancer is usually discussed in terms of women over age 50 years compared to women less than 50 years. Review of data in table format clearly demonstrates that being less than 50 years of age does not prevent the occurrence of breast cancer.

Breast Cancer in Scott County Iowa Source: Iowa Tumor Registry
This graph clearly shows that although breast cancer is more common in each decade between 50 and 79 years of age, there are a significant number of cases in the 40-49 age group. In addition, early detection in the younger women has the potential to provide more years of life saved. Years when the women may be providing for small children.
Another look at the same data above.