New research reveals that breast cancer cases declined by over 8% from 2001 through 2004. The results of this research complement a U.S. government study published in December 2006 that found that 7% fewer women were diagnosed with breast cancer between 2002 and 2003. The researchers of that study believed that the decline in breast cancer could be the result of fewer women choosing to use hormone replacement therapy (HRT). The new research reveals that the decline in cases occurred among women over age 50, the most likely candidate for HRT.

While only about 1% of men are diagnosed with breast cancer, a recent study finds that men may be at higher risk than women of dying from the disease. Treatment for breast cancer in men is based upon research of breast cancer in women, but the study suggests that there may be biological differences among male and female breast cancer that could affect survival. A greater understanding of breast cancer in men is needed, according to the researchers.

The U.S. Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) has approved the use of a new drug, Tykerb (generic name, lapatinib) for advanced breast cancer patients. Tykerb can be used along with another drug, Xeloda (generic name, capectabine). Tykerb is a targeted breast cancer treatment that may be effective for women whose breast cancers who carry extra copies of HER2, a protein that is associated with aggressive breast cancers. Another drug, Herceptin (generic name, trastuzumab) has been FDA-approved for almost a decade to treat HER2-type breast cancers. However, Tykerb works differently than Herceptin and researchers believe that it might be helpful for patients who have been treated in the past with Herceptin but who are no longer responding to it.

Breast size, shape and breast tissue density is different for every woman. Achieving an optimal mammogram image requires skill and careful attention to several factors by the mammography technologist and radiologist. This article discusses the mammography process and provides eight tips to ensure an optimal mammogram.