Advances in breast cancer care offer hope, but early detection remains key
On Aug. 18, communities around the world will observe World Breast Cancer Research Day – an opportunity to recognize the remarkable progress made in the fight against this all-too-common disease while acknowledging the continued need for research, innovation, and improved treatments.
Other than skin cancer, breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among American women, accounting for about one in three new cancer cases each year. According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 321,910 women in the United States will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in 2026, and approximately 42,140 women will die from the disease.
Faiza Hassan, M.D., serves as an internal medicine teaching hospitalist and primary care physician at The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education. For more information, visit TheWrightCenter.org or call 570-230-0019. The Wright Center for Community Health accepts same-day and walk-in appointments at its locations throughout Northeast Pennsylvania.
While breast cancer most often affects women ages 50 and older, younger women are also being diagnosed. When you think about your own family, friends, neighbors, or co-workers, there is a good chance someone you know has been impacted by breast cancer.
The good news is that tremendous strides have been made in recent decades. Advances in early detection, genetic testing for mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, and more personalized treatment options have improved outcomes for many patients. At the same time, countless nonprofit organizations and advocacy groups continue to provide critical education, research funding, and support services for individuals and families affected by breast cancer.
Regular self-awareness and recommended mammogram screenings remain among the most important tools for detecting breast cancer early, when it is more likely to be successfully treated. Finding cancer before it grows large enough to cause symptoms or spread to other parts of the body can make a significant difference. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, when breast cancer is diagnosed at its earliest, localized stage, the five-year relative survival rate is 99%.
Women can also take steps to help reduce their risk of developing breast cancer by maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol consumption, and breastfeeding your children.
At The Wright Center for Community Health, we are committed to supporting women’s health at every stage of life. Our patients have access to a comprehensive range of services, including preventive cancer screenings, breast exams, well-woman visits, bone density testing, and more. We also provide age-appropriate immunizations, Pap smears, HPV testing, sexually transmitted infection testing and treatment, and hormonal testing.
The Wright Center for Patient & Community Engagement also supports breast cancer awareness and education through community events, including the Wonderful Women Breast Cancer Support Group, which has been held in recent years during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. These gatherings provide an opportunity for women and their loved ones to connect, share experiences and learn about available resources.
Past events have featured speakers such as Dr. Lisa Thomas of Hematology & Oncology Associates of Northeastern Pennsylvania, who discussed advances in cancer care, and Julie Rutkowski of the Strong and Coura’Jess Foundation, who highlighted the importance of supporting women facing serious illness by addressing their mental, spiritual, and physical well-being.
Efforts like these reflect The Wright Center’s ongoing commitment to improving women’s health through prevention, education, access, and compassionate care. While a breast cancer diagnosis can be frightening, continued advances in screening and treatment offer hope. By prioritizing preventive care and early detection, we can help more women receive the care they need when it matters most.
