Re: Recent Trends in U.S. Breast Cancer Incidence, Survival, and Mortality Rates

Abstract

The recent reports of a reduction in breast cancer mortality rates certainly is encouraging news for both cancer researchers and patients alike ( 1 ). However, we must take cautious steps in interpreting these findings, especially when considering future directions for research into breast cancer prevention and treatment. It is important that we understand what factors explain the dramatic decline in mortality that has occurred after the increased mortality observed in the 1980s. Although it does appear that some of these data do show a survival benefit that can be attributed to treatment, we cannot ignore the importance of secular changes in risk factors.